Here We Are...with Luci

The Colgate Wisp: Brush On By And Save Your Money

A Here We Are Product Review

Obsessed with white teeth and fresh breath? Always trying the latest in tooth paraphernalia? I am. So when I saw the new Colgate Wisp Mini-Brush, I bought a pack right away based on the convenience it offered. At first, they were only intended for my personal use, but after a few test "brushes," I had to share my experience with the Here We Are readers.

As you may know, HWA does not accept payment for product reviews. We value your trust, and we stand by our philosophy, "If we like it, we will tell you, if we don't, we will tell you!" Open wide because here it comes...The Colgate Wisp is a waste of your money. 

One brush with this 3.5 inch hard-to-handle plastic wand and you have to wonder how it won the 2010 Product of the Year Award. Not only is it awkward to use, the "bristles" don't quite brush away debris, but work by slipping and scratching over your gums. Ouch! 

The product is supposed to be used without water. There is an embedded freshening bead that releases a liquid to help freshen your breath. The website says it is "safe to swallow," but that means everything you brushed around your mouth goes down with it. Not to be graphic but rinsing is necessary -- I tried the Wisps with and without water -- if you don't rinse, you will have to spit out the product residue soon after use. I also had to bite down on the brush end to get the liquid to release.

The design itself is ingenious for its ease of packing into a purse or pocket, which makes writing this review so disappointing. If the brushing aspect was pleasant, I'd buy it by the case. While it isn't a replacement for dental floss, in a pinch the "pick" on the other end was helpful when applied to crevices between teeth; but be careful, it was sharp on the hand when using the brush end.

So from one toothie to another, save your money and your gums from the Colgate Wisp. Your choppers will thank you when you stick to one of the greatest inventions of the modern world - the good old fashioned toothbrush!

Have you tried this product? Love it or leave it? Let us know!

{Product Review Disclaimer: This is NOT a paid review. No consideration of any kind was offered to or received by Lucimac Productions, the parent company of HWA.}

T.I.M.E. = It's All About YOU

As regular readers of Here We Are, you know that a lot of our focus is on the precious commodity of "time." From time saving recipes for pasta salad and coconut macaroons, product reviews like the rice cooker, to expert advice on why taking the time to get a prenuptial agreement could affect the rest of your life, the "time" factor is important.

Over the last seventeen months, we have also discussed taking the time to reconnect with your female friends, ideas to make the most of a rainy day, tips to get busy Moms out the door, and many more "time" related solutions. While all this information is helpful to make your busy day-to-day life better, brighter, and easier, the most important factor regarding time is YOU.

Stop the clock!!! Now...Take it, make it, carve it out or apply any other euphemism you like. Just do it, and do it today or as soon as you can [not a joke].

For 10 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 days...Make it All About YOU and read, rest, relax, shut off, shut down, tune in, tune out, turn off, and remember the HWA formula:

T.I.M.E. = Taking an Intermission for My Enjoyment

What will you do with your T.I.M.E.?

An AHA Moment: Driving Friendship

In a few hours, we will be sprung from the winter blues into the sunshine of spring time. Take a ride with me as we regenerate and reevaluate for the upcoming season.

Last weekend, I attended the Liberty States Fiction Writers first conference, after which I drove home in the worst rain storm I've ever seen. I will forever think of that hour as the AHA commute. If you are expecting a diatribe about "how short life is" or "live like there is no tomorrow," you will be disappointed. This is about friendship.

Right before I left the conference, I asked a friend, and writer, Ruth, if she wanted a lift. She had already made travel arrangements, so I ventured solo into the wind and rain fighting a turned up umbrella with my goodie-bag tucked safely under my arm.

Minutes into the drive my car was bobbing and weaving up the highway. The visibility was terrible but there was no place to pull over. At first, I was relieved that Ruth stayed behind; but with each long mile I began to wish my friend had come along to share in this white-knuckling adventure. These are the moments of heightened awareness that only those involved truly understand.

There was no turning back, pulling over, or letting up by Mother Nature. I continued on my path, knowing but not fearing that this was an "on the edge" moment. As I accepted this realization, my car hydroplaned out of the lane and onto the shoulder heading toward a ditch. I could sense the tires spinning freely as the car began to float across the water. The power steering became powerless, and I squinted through the windshield while the wipers struggled against the heavy downpour bombarding the earth.

The tires touched the grass as water rushed between the asphalt and nature's boundary. I thought "here we go" as the car was about to make its descent. It was in a split second that the front driver's side tire kissed a sliver of dry ground helping me regain control of the car. An angel was in the car behind me pretending to be the driver as they slowed down, flashing their lights to give me clearance to get back on the roadway.

All this and I was alone for the ride! No one to talk to but myself. While many things could have happened, instinctively I know that the worst damage would have been to the car. If Ruth had been along for the ride, we might have been soaked, tired, sore, or hungry, but we would have had one heck of a conference story to write about. The rest of the drive home, gripping the steering wheel, I laughed about the conversation she and I would have had while we were waiting to be rescued out of the ditch.

Over the last week, as the sun has come out to shine on us, I have been pondering the bigger message of my enlightening drive. These are the events in life when you wish you had a friend with you. I have been thinking about which of my friends, besides Ruth, might also have been good company for this adventure. As I drive my friendships forward into the future, I will keep these people close at hand, imagined in the seat next to me.

The AHA moment is in your answer to, "Which friend(s) would you want to be stuck in a ditch with?" Think about it, be honest with yourself, and about your relationships...the names and faces that pop up may surprise you. Say AHA and remember, these are the people who you truly know are friends.

A Happy St. Patrick's Day Wish

For each petal on the shamrock this brings a wish your way.

Good health, good luck, and happiness for today and every day.

~ Irish Blessing

The "Should" Show: Give Your Shoulders A Rest

Part 3 of the Here We Are series  - 

Live Your Life Out Loud

CLICK HERE to listen to the HWA radio show, "The Should Show: Give Your Shoulders A Rest."

Does the word "should" cause you guilt or pressure? This word can put invisible weight upon our shoulders. Beyond basic communications, the words we choose send messages to others and resonate within ourselves. Join us to discuss how "should" can deliver a hard punch of power-plays, pressure, expectations, control, and doubt; and how you can fight back with a new freeing approach that will help you relax those heavy shoulders.

While this show is for all women, if you answered "yes" to Question #10 of the GTSS = Goodie Two-Shoes Syndrome quiz, then this show will give you some much needed moxie. My co-host, Susan Ragazzo, and I share our experiences in the ongoing effort to uncover barriers and identify roadblocks that drain women of time and energy as we help in the journey to Live Your Life Out Loud.

Instead of cringing when the word "should" shows its bad self, lighten your load and get rid of it and its baggage once and for all time! You'll think you lost 10 pounds...ahhh!

Reminder: "Time" And "Talk" This Sunday

TIME: Don't forget to set your clocks AHEAD an hour before you go to bed on Saturday night. It's Daylight Savings Time again, and it begins on Sunday, March 14, at 2:00am in the continental United States. For the international Here We Are readers, check the DS Times Around the World - BTW, thanks to everyone for continuously popping by HWA!

TALK: Now that you've set your clocks, grab a cup of coffee and join us this Sunday for Part 3 of the Live Your Life Out Loud series under the HWA Women in Media and Culture category. This segment of the series will actually be "out loud" on the HWA radio show.

We will be live on March 14, at 12:30pm EST for The "Should" Show: Give Your Shoulders A Rest. Words carry messages and the word "should" carries a lot of weight, often causing unnecessary guilt and pressure for women. Does this word makes you cringe? Then it is time to be rid of it - and its baggage - once and for all.

NOTE: If you answered "yes" or "sometimes" to Question #10 of the GTSS=Goody Two-Shoes Syndrome quiz, then this show is especially important for you!

Call-in at (646)929-2473 and share your thoughts!

Neti Pot: The Nose Knows Sinus Relief

Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips

A post by HWA Contributor, Susan Ragazzo

You may have heard the buzz about the Neti Pot but are unsure of what it is or how it works. Simply stated, the Neti Pot is a nasal irrigation system. It is a non-medicated solution for post-nasal drip, sinusitis, and allergy sufferers alike. Saline solution is poured into one nostril, flowing through the nasal cavity, and exiting the opposite nostril. Yes, it sounds uncomfortable, but once you get the hang of it, it offers easy, inexpensive relief.

As a singer, if I get a sore throat before a performance, I am willing to try anything to find relief. In the past, I used the old standby remedies of tea with lemon and honey or gargling with salt water; however, these are treatments for after a sore throat hits. Enter -- The Neti Pot. Long before Oprah showcased it, my vocal coach suggested I try it.

At first, it was tough to get past the "gross out" factor, but it quickly became the lesser of two evils when pitted against medicinal alternatives. Using the Neti Pot, I was able to keep my sore throat at bay by breaking up any clogged mucus and keeping my nasal cavity well hydrated. Now I reach for it at the first sign of post-nasal drip. This nose has known relief ever since; and I have sung the praises of a Neti Pot to anyone who will listen.

If you are just curious or endeavoring upon your first attempt using a Neti Pot, here is the info you and your nose need to know for a pleasant experience:

 

1. Where do I buy a Neti Pot? You can purchase one at most local health food stores, drug stores, or at online retailers like this one on Amazon. There are different styles to choose from as well as starter kits for one-stop shopping.

2. What about water temperature? It is important to use warm water. Be sure the water is not too hot because you could scald yourself or too cold because this is uncomfortable. It might take a few tries before finding the right temperature for yourself. Don't be discouraged, discovering the correct water temperature goes a long way to easing this process.

3. Do I have to add salt to the water and does it have to be Neti Pot salt? Yes. Salt water is very important. According to Dr. Oz, the body's cells prefer salt water, and it aids in creating a more comfortable experience. [I can vouch for the discomfort when using unsalted water -- Don't make this rookie mistake.] You can use any non-iodized salt, kosher salt, or Neti Pot Salt. Mixing your saline solution is as simple as using the proper amount and type of salt as indicated by the directions accompanying your Neti Pot.

4. Are there other ingredients required to make the saline solution? Other than salt, no. There is an additive called Neti Wash Plus that can be purchased as an additive to the saline solution. It is made from herbal extracts, essential oils, and Xylitol, which has anti-bacterial properties. While Neti Wash Plus is not a required component of this process, you may like the additional "cooling, decongestant, and invigorating" benefits it offers.

5. Where does the saline solution travel after I start pouring it into my nostril? Ideally, the saline solution should travel in one nostril and out the other. Do not be concerned if water comes out of your mouth during a rinse. This is normal and can be eliminated with the proper head alignment. Check out this video from the Himalayan Institute.

6. What do I do after rinsing the saline solution through both nostrils? A brochure should be included with your Neti Pot, but you will want to blow your nose to expel excess water. The video in answer #5 also demonstrated body poses to help remove residual water from your nasal cavity. These poses are not a requirement, but are strongly recommended. 

Once you incorporate a Neti Pot into your health regimen, it will become the star of your medicine cabinet. It is now a ritual for me to reach for the Neti Pot when post-nasal drip begins to make an appearance. My nose looks forward to the relief it provides so I can keep on singing. La, la, la, la...

Have you tried a Neti Pot? Share your tips. Was it a good or bad experience? Do you use the Neti Pot Plus? If so, do you feel a difference? How often do you use it?

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product to yourself or anyone else.]

Time Tested Beauty Tips

The pomp and circumstance that surrounds the Academy Award's Oscar ceremony will once again take place this weekend. It is fun to see who is wearing what dress and to hear the heartfelt speeches. As we watch the glitter unfold, remember these words falsely attributed to Oscar winner, Audrey Hepburn...Proving once again that things are not always what they seem. 

            TIME TESTED BEAUTY TIPS

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, And redeemed; never throw out anyone.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands: one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. 

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows; and the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows! ~ Sam Levenson

What do you think? Is there one part of this poem that speaks to you more than another?

Marching Through The Snow

Announcements, Updates, and Reminders

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Spring is Coming! March 20 is the first day of spring; only three more weeks to go. You know it's been a heck of a winter when the animals are over it...The squirrel in the picture is a five inch tall baby squirrel who marched (okay, hopped and struggled) through the 15+ inches of snow to get to the cleared deck. She was quite dazed after her Olympic effort but posed for this pic as she regained her bearings. Hope it makes you smile.

WOMB: The search is on for the next Here We Are Woman On a Mission In Business. Since our first WOMB article featuring Sharon Gnatt Epel and her truly timeless beauty line, La Ishá, women from across the country have emailed to tell us about their mission in business. We are delighted and look forward to selecting another business woman for the spring WOMB article. Thank you to all and keep them coming.

Radio Show: Part 3 of the Live Your Life Out Loud series will actually be "out loud" on the HWA radio show. Join us on Sunday, March 14, at 12:30pm for The "Should" Show: Give Your Shoulders A Rest. The word "should" carries a lot of weight which often causes unnecessary guilt and pressure for women. If this word makes you cringe, it is time to be rid of it and its baggage once and for all.

❋❋ Did you answer "yes" or "sometimes" to Question #10 of the GTSS=Goody Two-Shoes Syndrome quiz? Then this show is for you! Call-in at (646)929-2473.

Neti Pot Anyone? HWA Contributor, Susan Ragazzo, helps us with the ins and outs of the dreaded Neti Pot in time for allergy season. Wondering about whether or not to buy this item? How to use it properly? Susan's article, "The Nose Knows Sinus Relief," will clear up your questions later this month.

UPDATES

Gifts, Gifts, Gifts:The January "call for comments" gift went to subscriber, April. She won the CD soundtrack of "New Moon," the featured movie for Chick Flick Chat, "New Moon" Rises and Falls. Thank you April for your generous comments.

The February "call for reviews" on the HWA page on Facebook celebrated Valentine's with a gift box of Godiva Chocolates. Subscriber and FB page friend, Bose, gets the sweet treat. A big ♡'d thank you goes out to Lori, Donna Maria, and Ching Ya for their sweet words. We love the reviews so please feel free to leave one...they do mean a lot. 

The March gift is still TBD, as soon as we know what it is, the HWA page on FB will be updated with the info.

Facebook: If you are a subscriber or regular reader of this HWA website, please come by and join us on FB, too. While you will see a feed of the HWA articles, we also post great sales offers/freebies (not sales pitches), interesting lifestyle info, helpful social networking how-to's, etc.; and we promise NOT to clog up your FB stream! We are even thinking of doing a "book club" for the summer - send us your title suggestions.

Contributors: The list is growing! This spring new faces and names will be added to the official roster of HWA Guest Authors & Contributors. If you are interested in offering your expertise, email me your ideas.

REMINDERS

Macaroons: It's getting to be the time of year when macaroons show up on holiday dessert tables. Check out our very popular Coconut Macaroons...The 30 Minute Cookie Recipe for a quick and easy way to make these toasty treats.

The Brighter Side: With all the grousing (of which I, too, partake) about the recent weather, I offer you this thought as we make our way through the month of March - be it a lion or a lamb.

Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand -- and melting like a snowflake. Let us use it before it is too late. ~ Marie Beynon Lyons Ray, Author