It has been quite a while since I sent a newsletter and there are reasons for this. First, I would like to apologize for the delivery of the last one. Apparently some of you received two copies and most did not receive even one. This is part of the reason I have not written. My webmaster had to switch me to a more reliable service so that my mailings will be consistent. Starting now, monthly newsletters are expected to go forth free of problems. I am optimistic and we shall see.

The other reason I have not been in touch is a more pleasant one. I have been traveling extensively and just returned from the Cruise to Lose to Alaska with Ann Louise Gittleman. As most of you know, I have been promoting Ann Louise’s Fat Flush Plan and many Chew Tamer group members have been successfully losing weight and feeling more zestful and energetic. I combine her work with teachings from my book, The Taming of the Chew, and the combination is an absolute winner. All of us strive for balance in our lives. Ann Louise provides the physical information you need to achieve that and I focus on the necessary emotional, social and spiritual aspects. This is an effective way to understand and change persistent self-destructive behaviors. People are smiling more, weighing less and having more fun. (Please let me know if you want more information about groups starting in the fall or telephone consultations.)

I hope this newsletter finds you all moving through summertime with purpose, commitment to yourself and with joy. What does that mean? It means making conscious, mindful choices each moment (at least as often as possible) – not just about what you choose to eat but about all the aspects of your self care. Here is a checklist you can use to reinforce your commitment to yourself every day.

Am I:

Asking yourself these questions on a daily basis will help you to keep things in perspective and maintain a high energy level. We all have times when we falter in our efforts to give ourselves the best care. Life is that way – full of surprises and challenges that can easily throw us off course. When we realize we have veered away, we can gently direct our energies back to ourselves, renew our commitment and pay attention to what we need in that very moment.

There are as many ways to do this as there are travelers on the Chew Tamer’s Journey. What works best for you? Modify the list above. Add reminders to it that particularly fit for you and your lifestyle. We all forget and visual cues like this list (posted prominently where you will see it everyday) are helpful.

For readers who did not receive the last issue of Chew Tamer’s Journey, I would like to briefly acquaint you with two new items now available on my products page. First, there is a 90 minute CD. This is NOT the Taming of the Chew book on CD. It is instead a complete workshop that contains information not found in the book as well as some things from the book that bear repeating. It is a useful adjunct to your food/appetite/life balancing journey.

Next you will find an adorable little character called the Chewlett. This is a fuzzy, little friend who fits into your pocket or purse or sits on your desk or dashboard as a reminder to take care of yourself and make self-loving choices. The Chewlet, introduced about a month ago, has become a very popular item. It will go anywhere with you and can be counted on to listen to whatever you say. When you are tempted to race for a fix of sugars and white flour you can reach for your Chewlet instead! Each little doll is unique -- one of a kind and especially handcrafted by a New Hampshire artist. No two are alike. Each is approximately 3 inches tall and guaranteed to make you smile. This visible reminder will help you stay on your Chew Tamer’s journey. Treat yourself to a Chewlet today!

(Products are sold individually or in bundles to save you money. Check them out and let me know what you think.)

In closing, I want to remind you once again to make yourself number one on your “to do” list. Identify what you need in order to really enjoy your summer. Nurture yourself as much as possible in each and every moment. You are worth it!

Warmly,
Denise