The 21-Day Sugar Detox- Day 12

Ugh! What a terrible night's sleep I had! Insomnia, bad dreams, sweating, nausea, and a headache were just some of the suffering I dealt with last night. Needless to say, today I'm totally fatigued. I guess since our bodies typically heal while at rest, mine is just doing what it's supposed to do. Stinks though!

Well, I had to change my housecleaning day to today instead of tomorrow because I have a catechist's retreat to attend. So, exhausted, I move about, doing my chores. I did three loads of laundry and cleaned the entire house, including the oven. By 2 PM, I was done. I fixed myself a little lunch of leftover chicken legs, asparagus, and olives. Quite random, I know. But, today was not the day to argue with myself.

After lunch, I had some work to do for my shop, Boho and Mo. Some of my pieces may be featured on bookcovers.  I'm trying to work out the deal. And, I'm in the process of writing an ebook, which requires a ton of research. Both of these require brain function I may not have today. But, I've got deadlines; so, I have to push through it. Just as I started to make progress, the buzzer for the dryer went off. This is exactly the reason I clean on Saturdays, not workdays. Argh!

Finally, it's time to cook dinner. I really needed some comfort food; so, I decided to try to replicate one of my favorite Cajun dishes, Dirty Rice, paleo style. For the rice, I would use cauliflower rice. I set about cooking it as I normally would.  When it was time to add the rice, I instead added the cauliflower rice. I sauted it as I normally would. The only difference was the lack of rice and cayenne pepper.

I served my Paleo Dirty Rice with a side salad of arugula, peeled cucumber, and half an avocado.  The faux Dirty Rice wasn't bad. It certainly wasn't as good as the real thing. Next time, I think I'll add a little more bacon fat. I think it would taste better with some organic chicken gizzards. But, boy, are those hard to come by. I've been searching online and everywhere, trying to find them. Cayenne pepper would have helped,too.  I'll keep trying until I perfect it. Then, I'll share the recipe with all my Cajun food lovers.

After dinner, I settled into the sofa to write this blog. When done, I think I'll head to bed early. I have to be up early tomorrow morning. Ugh!

Today was not so good. Losing sleep last night did not help. It's not that I felt sick. I just didn't feel as good as I have been. I give it a big thumbs down! Boo hiss!

Hopefully, tomorrow is a better day. I have to prepare food to bring with me to the retreat. There is always a ton of food at these functions. I know I can have none of it! I can't even eat the dish that I'm slated to bring to pass. Now, that stinks! Whatever, I'll just have my lettuce wraps, I guess.

Once again, this blog is to share the real ups and downs of the detox process. I keep it real for y'all. If I'm having a bad day, your going to know about it. Likewise, if I'm having a good, "lollipops and unicorns" day. When you're trying to heal, you have to take the good with the bad. If someone tells you they were healed in a day, they are FULL OF IT! It doesn't work that way. You have to make an effort.

If you are ready to start healing, do it! The sooner you start,the sooner you can get this detox phase over with. And, if you need someone to encourage you when things get rough, email me or comment below. I'll be right there with you! Tmoperillo@gmail.com

Wow! What A Year for Boho and Mo!

Well, first I'd like to thank all of you who follow my blog and Facebook page! Thank you so much for allowing Boho and me into your lives. I hope I've been able to provide you with some insight, camaraderie, and fun over the last few months. It's been great getting to know you all!

I find myself reflecting on this incredible year, 2013. In one years time, I founded and began building Boho and Mo, opened my Etsy shop, was diagnosed with Lupus, began a whole new way of eating, and premiered this blog. In just a few short months, I've built my Facebook page, Boho and Mo, from just three "Likes" ( my husband, my Mom, my sister) to 456 "Likes". That's 456 people I have the opportunity to help!

The whole reason I founded Boho and Mo was to help others to heal through information and my own experiences.  And, at the same time, I wanted to do my part for our wonderful country.  This is why I repurpose, recycle, upcycle, and fight against companies and people who try to poison us. I do what I can to protect the citizens of this fine nation from those who want to take away our liberties and safety.

In the new year, expect many changes. I will continue to grow Boho and Mo in new ways. My Etsy shop will grow to include a full all-natural skincare, body care, and household cleaning line of products. I will also be adding more vintage and handcrafted clothing and accessories. I aim to make into a shop where you can find everything you need to live naturally.

I will also focus more on natural, healthy pet information. After all, it is Boho who inspired me to create Boho and Mo!

So, as we enter into this new year together, I promise to keep the information coming in new and interesting ways. I hope you'll stick around. And, please feel free to comment and share your experiences. I love hearing from you all!

Happy New Year!

Good Grief! Did you just pull that Naturapathic Doctor Degree out of your butt?

 Say what?

Hey, folks. I'm taking this space away from my scheduled blog post to rant a bit. I just read another ill-advised comment on someone else's Facebook page. Now, mind you, this was not a comment from the owner of the page. Most of the people running their own pages are pretty knowledgable.  This was a comment from a random person, answering a question from a reader with a friend who had just been diagnosed with Lupus. This uninformed person stated, quite matter of factly, that Lupus was Lyme disease! Aargh!

I went on to read other rediculous comments and advice. I honestly do not know where some of these people get this information! Seriously, do they pull it out of their butts?! They must because no where can you find this baloney.

I'm sure many are well-meaning. But by spewing this garbage to people who are just looking for help, you are NOT helping anyone. If you're going to offer advice, make sure you know what the heck you are talking about. If you're not certified, degreed, or have been through something similar yourself, keep your advice to yourself.

If you're looking for help, don't trust everything you read online. Find people you can trust. Find certified and/or degreed herbalists, homeopaths, naturapathic doctors, chiropractors, etc. Read books written by people who have been through what you're going through. There are wonderful bloggers and writers with quality information. I will do my best to weed through the good and the bad. But, I cannot protect you from the random comment goofball.

I'm not reading any more comments tonight. I've already lost enough hair for now!

Some bloggers I trust:

Whole New Mom

Mommypottamus (I hope I spelled that right)

Coconut Momma

Danielle Walker, Against all Grain

That's a good start. I'll post more later this week. Until then, trust your gut. If it sounds stupid, ignore it! Thanks for putting up with my rant! I needed that!

Paleo-A-Go-Go!

My veggie and fruit bin is full!

My, things sure do change quickly around here! After getting completely abandoned by my GP, I have immersed myself in research, looking for a cure for all that ails me.  I have also consulted with a Naturapathic Doctor to further my studies. We have come to the agreement that my lupus requires a very thoughtful plan which combines herbal, vitamin, homeopathic, diet, and stress reducing therapies.

My current diet of gluten free foods is not restrictive enough.  I am to now follow a paleo food plan which totally restricts grains of any sort. You can find tons of information online; so, I will spare you the long description. I also have to eliminate citrus ( Boo!) and vegetables in the nightshade category 

( potatoes, tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, etc.). Don't worry about the lemons and oranges in the photo. I use them for cleaning only now. The citrus is bad for my stomach ulcer and hernia because they're much too acidic.  The nightshade veggies can affect my joints by causing further inflammation.

Great, and right before the holidays!

Luckily for me, there are tons of Thanksgiving Paleo recipes online and for sale as ebooks and PDFs. I will be doing a review of a few of them this weekend. I'm going to blog about them next week, probably Monday.

Since I'm hosting Thanksgiving dinner at my home, I will have control over what I cook. I've decided to make paleo versions of my favorite foods, Sweet Potato Crunch, Pecan Pie and Green Bean Cassarole. For my family, I will make the traditional versions of their favorites. My Mother-in-law is bringing the pies, thankfully.  I'm glad I'll be the only one eating the paleo versions, in case they don't turn out so well!

As for the changes to my herbal and vitamin plan, I have upgraded my vitamins to the Melaleuca Vitality Total.  These are, by far, the best vitamins I have ever taken. The Total pack adds supplements for eyesight, joint care, and hormone support.  I have already noticed a difference in my hip and knee pain.  The pain had gotten so bad, it was difficult for me to walk.  These vitamins are not cheap; but, the relief they give is worth every penny.  If you'd like to know how to purchase your own, email me at tmoperillo@gmail.com. I'll hook you up. I'm also taking Cat's Claw, to reduce inflammation, and Paul d'Arco, to cleanse my blood.  I drink 1/2 cup of aloe vera juice everyday, mixed into my fresh fruit and vegetable juice.  Oh, and let's not forget about my fish oil supplements.

We will continue to add various remedies as I need them. Cleaning out my beauty and personal care items was a vital part of my wellness. I am only using the purest, organic products. Successfully, I've been using Organic Coconut Oil as a body moisturizer for my skin rashes.  I will be blogging recipes for my favorite concoctions soon, along with a resource list of where to find the best ingredients.

So, there is much more to come as I maneuver my way around lupus world. I won't go down without a fight! It's ON!

Have you checked out my Pinterest boards yet? I pin lots of fabulous recipes ( gluten free, paleo, and regular), herbal info, alternative health articles, diy ideas, and just some funny stuff.  Www.pinterest.com/bohoandmo 

Be sure to "Like" us on Facebook for daily updates on all that is Boho and Mo.  Www.facebook.com/bohoandmo 

And, I've just updated our website for fall! Www.BohoandMo.com

Grass Fed Beef for my new Paleo plan.

Fridge is fully stocked with organic veggies!

Germ-free Air Everywhere I Go

After receiving my diagnosis and refusing allopathic treatment, I started doing a little research of my own. I assumed that since I had an immune system in overdrive, I didn't have to worry about germs and viruses. Wow, was I wrong about that! It seems that when your immune system is busy destroying your organs, it tends to disregard other invaders.  This actually puts you at greater risk to bugs! Good to know!

Upon learning this nugget of information, I immediately began to panic. The next day, I was to teach a class of fourth graders! Germ alert! And, two days later, I was to board a plane full of people and fly to New Orleans. MEGA GERM ALERT!

Luckily, I had previously met Denise, owner of Tend2 Corporation. Her company sells Air Purification Systems.  When I met her, she was wearing one of the portable devices around her neck.  Of course, I asked her about it. She explained to me, at the time, that the devise created a barrier around the wearer which repelled pollutants, including bacteria and viruses.

I called her promptly.  She was able to set me up that day with the Graphite Mini Mate. It can be held, worn on a strap around the neck or clipped onto a belt or pocket. The unit sells for under $200 and is sold with a 2- hour charger and 2 rechargeable batteries.

Then, it was time to put it to the test! I taught my class, flew to New Orleans and back to Chicago without getting sick. While visiting my sister and baby nephew, Grayson, we had to take him to his first checkup appointment. I wore my Mini Mate while carrying Grayson, to protect the both of us. We walked into the doctor's office and observed sick children everywhere, touching everything. I held my nephew tightly as we waited to be called. I also instructed my sister to sit as close to me as possible without making people stare too much. None of us became ill afterwards.

So, you can see, I really put this little device to the test. I purchased my Mini Mate a little over two weeks ago. I haven't experienced so much as a sniffle.

Tend2 also sells room and whole house air purifiers that employ the same technology. I have thoroughly researched this technology to be sure it was safe. You can look into it further at http://www.tend2corp.com . Denise Netzel is the owner and she can answer any questions you may have. If you tell her Mo sent you, she'll give you special pricing.

The Mini Mate would be perfect for teachers, people with compromised immune systems, anyone who works around chemicals or pollutants, or newborns. I highly recommend the Mini mate and the home purifiers.

Remember, if you have an ineffective immune system, it is very important to protect yourself. Oh, and by the way, this unit is also safe for pets and children. Denise told me of cases where dog owners bought them for their dogs with allergies. The dogs' allergies have since improved. I thought that was pretty cool.

You can reach Denise at her website: http://www.tend2corp.com 

phone: 847-354-8104 

Email: denise@tend2corp.com

Tell her Mo sent you and get special pricing. If you have any questions for me about my experiences, email me at tmoperillo@gmail.com.

Check Out My Chompers!

I believe that an important part of healing is looking as good as you can. This has been hard for me to do lately. I mean, with this butterfly rash covering half my face and my hair falling out in clumps, looking good has become quite time consuming. I wanted a quick beauty fix!

Whitening your teeth can improve your looks in an instant. Facing the world with a bright smile can change your outlook, as well as those around you. But, what's a natural woman to use in this chemical, whitening strip world. Activated charcoal!

These are my teeth before. Yuck!

I know this looks pretty scary! I simply opened a capsule of activated charcoal, dipped my toothbrush in it, and brushed it on my teeth. I continued applying and brushing until I had used all the charcoal. Then I let it sit on my teeth for 3 minutes. Lastly, I rinsed my mouth until there was no more residue on my teeth.

Ta-da! Much whiter teeth. I will do this daily for a few days to get them even whiter.

This is so quick and easy anyone can do it. I was sure not to alter the photos in any way. These were taken by my phone and have not been enhanced.

Happy smiles to you! Please comment if you try this. I would love to know your experiences!

Why I Fight Against Toxins

By now, if you've been reading this blog, you know the story of how Boho influenced my starting this blog and going public with information on removing toxins from your lives.  After much soul-searching, I have come to the decision to share my story.  I hesitated for awhile because I really didn't want to make this blog all about ME, ME, ME.  However, after my fourth doctor's visit in two weeks time, I came to the realization that maybe there were others out there who are going through the same troubles I am.  Perhaps, if I share my experiences, I can help more people than if I just keep silent.  So, here goes it.
Two weeks ago, my doctor determined the symptoms I am experiencing is likely due to an autoimmune disorder.  She is now in the process of determining which disorder or combination of disorders it is.  Each new symptom is a key or marker to which specific disorder I have.  Currently, I have markers for five of them.  So far, I have had attacks to my skin, reproductive system, and gastrointestinal system.  The next month of my life will be spent being poked and prodded to find an answer.  At one point, I will basically be set up like a rotisserie chicken.  I apologize for the mental image of that one.
Now, I'm not looking for sympathy.  The reason I'm writing this is to help anyone who may be dealing with this right now or has in the past.  Like most women, I ignored my own symptoms early on because I was busy caring for everyone else.  Then, when I would go to a doctor with a complaint, they would fail to take me seriously.  I can't tell you how many times I received a simple diagnosis of reflux and was sent away with the latest prescription.  Or, they would do a simple blood test and as long as everything was in the usual parameters, or only slightly high or low, dismiss me without another look. I'm not trying to bash doctors here.  I'm merely saying to keep searching until you find a doctor willing to listen to you and take you seriously.  I've been suffering with these symptoms for years.  Only now, when everything is going haywire at once, did I find a doctor with the answers. I understand this may be hard for some people.  I am very lucky to have health insurance.  I pray for those of you who do not.
Now, I've already started to hear the comments and questions, "How can someone who lives so healthy and green be so unhealthy?  Why bother if I'm just going to end up sick anyway?  See, that natural stuff doesn't work!". And, to that, I say "Shuttie!" To answer the question #1, I didn't come out of the womb being green,   autoimmune disorders are thought by many to be caused by environmental pollutants and there are over 100,000 synthetic chemicals in commerce today, surrounding us in a toxic haze. To question #2, I say that if everyone stopped using all the toxic chemicals, maybe none of us would have to be sick again.  If we send a message to companies that we are not going to use their products or eat their food unless they remove carcinogens, we could create a world that's safer and healthier for future generations. They may not have to suffer the skyrocketing numbers of autoimmune disease, cancer, ADHD, autism, etc. that we've had to endure. And, lastly to comment #3, I answer, just because something is natural, that doesn't mean it's guaranteed to make you healthy.  Just like, if you take a certain medication prescribed by your doctor, it's not guaranteed to cure what ails you.  But, since it's the toxic crap that made me sick to begin with, I think I'm going to give the natural stuff a chance.
Before I start to bore you, I'll wrap this up.  I will continue to provide you with updates on my condition and the latest information on alternative health and wellness.  I promise to keep up the fight against chemicals and toxins.  I will continue to research alternative therapies and report on my findings.
In the meanwhile, don't worry about me.  I have my faith in God to see me through.  I know everything happens for a reason.  I think God just wants me to work harder so I can help more people.  Because, after all, that's why I do what I do.  That is why I fight against toxins.

My Favorite Natural Personal Care Products and Brands

Here is a list of my favorite natural care products and brands.  I am always trying new products. But, there are some products I love too much to ever change.  As usual, I have not received compensation from any company for my reviews.  These are the actual products my family and I use.

Oral Hygiene
Toothpaste:  Melaleuca Whitening Tooth Polish and Himalaya Organique Neem & Pomegranate Toothpaste

Mouthwash:  Melaleuca Breath Away Mouth Rinse

Floss:  Melaleuca Classic Dental Floss

Toothbrushes: Melaleuca Toothbrush

Gum: Melaleuca Exceed Sugar Free Gum (Make sure to keep this away from your dogs. It contains Xylitol which is toxic for them.)

Body

Bar Soap:  Dr. Bonner's All In One Hemp Pure Castille Soap, Chandrika Ayurvedic Bar Soap (I love the scent of this! And, it's so cheap!), Melaleuca Bar Soaps (All), Lush Soaps (All)

Body Wash:  Dr. Bonner's 18-in 1-Pure Castile Hemp Baby Mild Soap, Melaleuca Renew Body Wash

Body Lotion:  L'Occitane Ultra Rich Body Cream, Melaleuca Renew Intensive Skin Therapy, The Body Shop Shea Body Butter

Body Scrubs: Anything from Lush Cosmetics

Shave Gels and Lotions: Melaleuca Body Satin Shave Gel- women, Melaleuca Alloy Shave Gel-men (This smells amazing)

Hand Cream:  L'Occitane Hand Creme

Liquid Soap:  Melaleuca Antibacterial Liquid Soap and Moisturizing Liquid Soap

Hand Sanitizer:  Trader Joe's Hand Sanitizer, Melaleuca Clear Defense Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer

Deodorant:  Melaleuca Herbal Deodorant

Special Haircare: 
Dandruff Shampoo- Melaleuca Original Shampoo

For Baby:

Baby Shampoo:  Melaleuca Koala Pals Conditioning Tear Free Hair Wash

Diapers: Seventh Generation Diapers

Baby Wipes: Seventh Generation Free & Clear

Baby Care:  California Baby Calendula Cream

Feminine Hygiene

Maxi Pads:  Organyc 100% Organic Cotton Pads ( This company offers many different sizes and thicknesses.)

Tampons:  Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons

Suncare

Sunscreen:  Dr. Hauschka Sunscreen Cream SPF 30, Melaleuca Sun Shades Mineral Plus Sunscreen SPF 30+

Well, there it is, in a nutshell.  If you need any help finding these products, please email me, tmoperill0@gmail.com .  I will be happy to point you in the right direction.

My Favorite Natural Household Cleaning Brands and Products

People constantly ask me which cleaning brand I use when cleaning my home.  Although I do make some cleaning products myself, there have been times when I just don't have the time. I need things cleaned quickly!

Luckily, many natural product companies have created effective and safe products that make our chores easier to manage.  Now, this is a list of brands and products I use in my home. I have not tried every brand or product on the market. But, I have tried MANY.  These are the products that work for me and my family.  These are the products that are safe for Boho and don't make her sick.

I have not received compensation to recommend these products.  These are truly the products I use in my home.

That being said, here is the list:

Kitchen Cleaner- Countertops, Stovetop, Small Appliances: Melaleuca Tough & Tender

Grease and Oven:  Melaleuca Sol-U-Mel.   Stainless Steel:  Method Steel for real stainless steel Polish

Dish washing Liquid:  Melaleuca Lemon Brite Hand Dishwashing Liquid

Dishwasher Detergent: Melaleuca Diamond Brite

Bathroom Cleaners-

Tubs and Toilets: Melaleuca Tub & Tile

Inside Toilets: Method Antibacterial Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Disinfectant: Melaleuca Sol-U-Guard Botanical Disinfectant 

Mirror & Glass Cleaner: Melaleuca Clear Power

Wood Polish: Melaleuca Rustic Touch ( also really good on leather)

Floor Cleaners-

Tile & Linoleum: Melaleuca MelaMagic

Hardwood: Melaleuca Tough & Tender

Laundry Detergent: Melaleuca MelaPower, Ecos Magnolia & Lily ( this detergent has a fabric softener in it. )

Laundry Brightener & Whitener: Melaleuca Melabrite 6x

Laundry Softener: Melaleuca MelaSoft Liquid Fabric Softener

Laundry Stain Remover: Melaleuca PreSpot Gel or Spray

Dryer Sheets:  Melaleuca MelaSoft Dryer Sheets, Trader Joe's Lavender Dryer Sachets

Machine Carpet Cleaner: Melaleuca MelaMagic & Sol-U-Mel ( use instead of the solvent recommended, mixed with hot water)

Carpet Stains: Melaleuca Sol-U-Mel ( great for when Boho has an "accident")

Sponges: Trader Joe's Pop Up Sponges ( These are amazing! They pop up when you add water.)

Mop: Rubber Maid Reveal Mop (This is a great mop with a washable cleaning pad and a bottle that allows you to put in your own cleaning liquid.)

Trash Bags: Seventh Generation Drawstring Kitchen 

Paper Products-

Paper Towels and Napkins: Seventh Generation 100% Recycled, Natural ( I like the natural, unbleached color of these. They look so rustic.)

Toilet Paper: Seventh Generation Natural Unbleached 100% Recycled Toilet Paper

I hope this list helps. If you need any information on finding these products or how to use them, email me, tmoperillo@gmail.com .