The Blue Zones

I just finished reading The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner who has also written articles for National Geographic. It was easy to read in a day, very interesting, and entertaining. This book is about the four regions in the world that have the highest number of centenarians. The research teams sought to find commonality that may have contributed to their longevity. From this research, they developed the Power Nine lessons patterned after the lifestyles of Blue Zones centenarians modified to fit Western lifestyle. (BTW, one of these Blue Zones are in the U.S.)

You can buy this book from Amazon for $10.00, a very worthwhile investment in my opinion. You can also go to http://www.bluezones.com/ to complete the Vitality Compass "to find out where you are on your personal longevity journey" and what you can do "to create a pro-longevity environment -- your own personal Blue Zone -- in your home."

Sad news about a young friend.

I've just been told that a friend of my daughter's has been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. Kristi is also someone I know and care about. I remember her and her husband Chris as a wonderful young Christian family. She and Chris and their 4 children have had quite a blow dealt to them and all of our prayers are going up to heaven for an intervention from God.

I looked up Hodgkin Lymphoma because I always want to know why this sort of thing would happen to a young, otherwise healthy person. While there are many factors that may be involved, I found it infuriating to see the words pesticide, herbicide, and chlorine mentioned as possible contributors. More reasons to buy or grow your own organic food, filter chlorine out of your water and your life, and discourage insects with natural deterrents.

Please join us in praying for Kristi and her family as they go through this valley.