Life Reflections & Christmas Thoughts
Posted by: yourpowerfullife on: December 18, 2011
- In: ENTERTAINMENT | FITNESS | Life Quotes
- 2 Comments
Looking back at this year and remembering some of my quotes born from my experiences and inspired from a “Higher Love”. Fondly, I recall the day to day interactions of family, friends, clients and my patients at Kaiser Permanente where I teach lifestyle wellness skills. When I’m in service to others and their needs, my heart is open.
“An open heart has room for Love, Joy, Peace, Family, Friends and above all, God.” ~ Maria Lauren (Alberici – Riccio)
Did I ponder more on my worries or on my blessings this year? Wish I could say that I continually live in a state of gratitude for the blessings in my life but I fall short. I have a habit of wanting to fix things especially when it affects those I love. Sometimes this steers me down the road of stress and misunderstanding which can be frustrating and even infuriating. This gives me the clue to step back knowing a Higher Power, God is in control not me.
“Eating humble pie once in a while can be good for you.” ~ Maria Lauren (Alberici – Riccio)
Those who have encouraged me with a smile of support or words of inspiration have touched me like a hug. These little acts of kindness are wonderful but lots of times I’m on my own to buck up, that is when I look up to heaven.
”Thumbs up… fingers too… say a prayer… God loves you.” ~ Maria Lauren (Alberici – Riccio)
With all of life’s ups, I have no way escaped the downs of life. When my whole being aches from disappointments my natural instinct is to protect myself. Even when I close the door to negative feelings cynicism creeps in through the cracks. Eventually, I realize it’s time to gently unwrap the bandage that hides the part of my heart that has been scarred. The light and warmth of the sunshine and God’s Son completes the healing as I discover the beauty and miracles of life again.
”There’s perfection in imperfection; perfecting love is never ending.” ~ Maria Lauren (Alberici – Riccio)
It takes patience to continually perfect the art of loving and living in this world. This can be exhausting and sometimes it is heartbreaking but a broken heart is an open heart that is ready for blessings. There is so much good in life to embrace but life also brings anxiety. The negative aspects of life have a positive side too. Anxiety can give you the energy you need to accomplish and tears can be purifying. Want to get out of a funk? Don’t lie around feeling sorry for yourself, get up and exercise and release pent-up feelings and don’t forget to pray.
Exercising, praying, music, singing and dancing has always been a part of my life. My sisters Linda Eichberg and Darlene Cianci also teach fitness and wellness techniques today. Here’s a fun clip of us, The Alberici Sisters, performing “In the Mood” at The Osmond’s Telethon, Childrens’ Miracle Network during the 80’s: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SI9jr8Nz-is
”A musical heart is always in harmony so face life’s music, dance and sing. You are the instrument and the song.” ~ Maria Lauren (Alberici – Riccio)
Open your heart away from the clutter that fills life so you can hear your special Christmas message. My sister, Alane (Alberici) Degli-Esposti shared the following meaning for the Holidays; maybe it is something you will want to also keep in mind.
Heard a fun reminder about the story of Mary and Martha who loved each other and shared time together: When Jesus comes to visit, Martha is busy and suggests to Jesus she could really use some help… Jesus tells her you are busy with so many things… but Mary has her focus where she should be with Jesus.
I will keep putting Him on top of my to-do list this holiday when He slips down the list! Sadly, I know- but it happens. Jesus is the reason for the season-amen. So calm your busy hearts with that thought of Jesus setting Martha straight!
Love, Alane
”Reconnecting to the people from your past helps you to remember the fabric from which you are made.” ~ Maria Lauren (Alberici – Riccio)
Family and friends can help keep you on the right path. It’s so easy to be overwhelmed and too busy this time of year. Take a breather and “Relax-n-Renew” that’s what I try to do. This CD may help you too: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici
One highlight this year was the completion of the book I co-wrote about some of the entertainment Icons of the 20th Century called, “Beyond Our Wildest Dreams” now selling on Amazon! The book highlights performing with “Showstoppers” like the Rat Pack! More book info, photo’s, links, radio and TV interviews: www.BeyondOurWildestDreams.com
HAPPY HOLIDAYS, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND MANY BLESSINGS TO ALL!
* Maria Lauren (yourpowerfullife)
* FYI: Maria Lauren is my stage name registered with the Screen Actors Guild. My legal name is Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio
Maria Lauren is a keynote speaker, entertainer, fitness and singing coach: YGTPower@aol.com
Maria Lauren’s fitness and entertainment website: www.MariaLauren.com
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/maria-lauren-riccio/15/295/285; http://facebook.com/Maria.Lauren.Alberici.Riccio; www.LindaEichberg.com; www.TvParty.com; www.kaiserpermanente.org; http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mariannamaria; www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici; www.YouGotThePowerStore.com; www.MariannaRiccio.com; http://www.chestercountynutrition.com
DISCLAIMER: This is a personal Blog, produced in my own time and solely reflecting my personal opinions. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of my employer, past or present, or any other organization with which I may be affiliated. All content is copyrighted.
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Betty White: “Golden Girl” inspires “Golddigger”
Posted by: yourpowerfullife on: November 30, 2011
- In: ENTERTAINMENT | FITNESS | Senior Health
- 7 Comments
Betty White is a living Icon whose familiarity touches you like that of your favorite Aunt. Her down-to-earth personality and light-hearted way is endearing. It’s uncanny that in a room full of stars Betty White can remind you of the lighter, fun side of your mom or of that special older woman you admire. She gives all women hope that we can be vitally alive at any age.
“I think older women still have a full life. Maybe the writers don’t address it these days, but it doesn’t change the fact.” ~ Betty White
Betty White has lived a long life on television, a span of over 60 years. You may remember her as a familiar face on the Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls and presently, Hot in Cleveland. Betty has won numerous Emmy Awards and is the oldest person to be a guest host on Saturday Night Live. She won an Emmy Award for being the Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for the first season of Golden Girls.
Television shows of the 80’s had memorable theme songs etc… : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dHAw06wpZo
Besides appreciating Betty White as a notable celebrity, Betty is someone that I would like to know better. I would suspect she would make a wonderful dinner guest by adding an air of her special humor and wit to the occasion. Part of her comedic talent is how she can be sweet but flippant in her delivery. Betty White is as sharp as a whip but her sting tickles your funny bone like a giggle. Part of her wisdom and charm is she makes everyone feel good. She doesn’t take herself too seriously but there is no false humility. She doesn’t brag; she just does. These traits are the fertilizer that cultivated her long career and life to flourish.
“The thing I like to do best is my work for animals. I’ve worked with LA Zoo and a number of other animal causes for years now, and I never want to give that up.” ~ Betty White
Recently, I had lunch with some of my girlfriends. Would I be bragging to say that we all experienced over a half a century of life, ourselves? I have to admit I am proud of my friends. They are not shy about giving their talents and resources to worth-while causes that help others and our future world. They are not shy about stating their opinion either. When I brought up the subject of Betty White, the one word that kept coming into the conversation to describe her was “Amazing!”
During our lunch, the subject of aging and longevity came up. We spoke fondly of our parents and older friends recognizing that those who lived an active lifestyle were in pretty good health as compared to those who stayed at home isolated from the outside world. It was obvious to us that as one gets older it is important to keep moving and exercise.
“I have a two-story house and a bad memory, so I’m up and down those stairs all the time. That’s my exercise.” ~ Betty White
“An active body may help older people keep a sharp mind.” (Mayo Clinic study) ~ Ira Dreyfuss, HHS Health Beat, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Thank you, Betty White for giving women hope as we get older and teaching us that a sense of humor endures. There is a misconception about older adults being forgetful, inactive, depressed and intolerant. I am grateful to teach fitness while working as a Lifestyle Educator at Kaiser Permanente. We have a million Medicare members. Seniors usually have more than one health condition so they like being taken care of by a team. All our physicians have immediate electronic access to all the comprehensive data about each patient. Also, over 400, 000 of our Medicare patients use KP.org for care support and information like lab reports because it’s so convenient.
Kaiser Permanente celebrates numerous awards including Medicare five-star awards and lead the country in the number of HEDIS first place quality scores.
This Holiday season, I’m going to try to live in the “present” and invest in relationships by giving the gift of time, appreciation, memories, compassion and peace.
Many Blessings,
Maria Lauren – yourpowerfullife (AKA: Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio)
On my blog page you will find Links for gifts of memories, appreciation and peace.
Maria Lauren is an entertainer, fitness and singing coach: YGTPower@aol.com
Recommended Websites:
Author, Maria Lauren’s fitness and entertainment website: www.MariaLauren.com
Maria Lauren and Linda Eichberg, the Alberici Sisters are authors of the Pop-cultural entertainment book about the ”Showstoppers” with whom they performed like the Rat Pack. Their book is called, ’Beyond Our Wildest Dreams’ newly released on Amazon! www.BeyondOurWildestDreams.com
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/maria-lauren-riccio/15/295/285; http://facebook.com/Maria.Lauren.Alberici.Riccio; www.LindaEichberg.com; www.TvParty.com; www.kaiserpermanente.org; http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mariannamaria; www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici; www.YouGotThePowerStore.com; www.MariannaRiccio.com; http://www.chestercountynutrition.com
DISCLAIMER: This is a personal Blog, produced in my own time and solely reflecting my personal opinions. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of my employer, past or present, or any other organization with which I may be affiliated. All content is copyrighted.
Alberici Sisters: Still Living the Dream
Posted by: yourpowerfullife on: October 24, 2011
- In: Baby Boomers | ENTERTAINMENT | FITNESS
- 4 Comments
Alberici Sisters: Fitness Experts, Entertainers, Authors
The Alberici Sisters’ book, ’Beyond Our Wildest Dreams’ is featured in the November 2011 issues of the Calabasas Times and the Studio City Lifestyle magazines.
When we entertained with Dean Martin in his later years, he jokingly said, “If I knew I was going to live this long I would have taken better care of myself.” This is no joke! Because of medical breakthroughs the Baby Boomers are living longer and wanting a better quality of life. We know from experience that exercise is the ‘Fountain of Youth.’
Today, my sister and I are still living the dream as we both promote a healthy lifestyle at corporate wellness centers in the Los Angeles area. Our expertise as certified fitness instructors and entertainers is also utilized when we each teach personal training exercises for body and mind health or singing techniques for the art of performing. Seeking balanced lives is always our first priority. This includes physical, mental, spiritual and social/emotional well-being.
Besides being fitness practitioners, my sister Linda and I live vigorously as we travel on our book tour doing radio interviews and television appearances. Recently, we flew into Las Vegas to be interviewed on Fox TV to talk about our book and the glamorous days of “Old Vegas.” It’s on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwidtY8_u0s
“As busy or exciting as my life can sometimes get, when I feel the joy slipping away I pause and ask God what’s next? God’s message is always perfect, loving and timely. At different times the answer has been to give back to others or to take care of my family. Other times it was simply to do something fun for me.” – Linda (Alberici) Eichberg
To live your dream, you have to be awake. As I look at the world around me, I find that everyone is so busy, not just me. Sometimes, I run on pure adrenaline and let the momentum of life move me from one thing to another. If I don’t get enough rest, I crash which usually leads to a weakened immune system. Relaxing and clearing my mind gives me a chance to focus on my spiritual values. Trusting in the power of God to take over my burdens suddenly makes me feel renewed. Relax-n-Renew, a CD of beautiful, healing imagery and soothing music has a beneficial effect on body and mind health too! For music samples, see ‘My Store’ on the right of this page. Link: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici
During the writing of our book, my sister and I would often meet for a walk on the beach and do some deep breathing as we discussed the direction of ‘Beyond Our Wildest Dreams.’ Just looking at the beauty of nature would revive us. Taking time out from our passion of writing to re-discover our emotional and social connection to friends, family and fellow performers actually kept us going. Their stories, love and energy carried us to completion.
Sisters share alot. We certainly don’t agree on everything (that’s for sure) but we feel blessed to have shared our life’s journey together. Our values, family, friends and faith are the glue that keeps us together. Our journey continues…
Hope your journey includes a ’Powerful Life’ in physical, mental and spiritual health.
Keep dreaming!
Maria Lauren – yourpowerfullife (AKA: Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio)
The Alberici Sisters, Maria Lauren and Linda Eichberg have been called, “The Rat Pack Golddiggers!” Dean Martin TV Show producer Lee Hale says, “The ladies have had a remarkable life, and it’s lovely to read about it.”
The Alberici Sisters book, ”Beyond Our Wildest Dreams’” is about their adventures as members of the singing and dancing glamour girls, The Dean Martin Golddiggers which included touring with Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Louis Prima… etc. It’s a 342 page book by Maria Lauren and Linda Eichberg, produced by TVparty’s Billy Ingram, containing more than 350 pictures. It’s selling on Amazon now! For more information visit: www.BeyondOurWildestDreams.com
Author, Maria Lauren’s fitness and entertainment website: www.MariaLauren.com
Maria Lauren is a Lifestyle Educator at Kaiser Permanente and continues to entertain. For more information, contact: YGTPower@aol.com
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/maria-lauren-riccio/15/295/285; http://facebook.com/Maria.Lauren.Alberici.Riccio; www.LindaEichberg.com; www.TvParty.com; www.kaiserpermanente.org; http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mariannamaria; www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici; www.YouGotThePowerStore.com; www.MariannaRiccio.com; http://www.chestercountynutrition.com
DISCLAIMER: This is a personal Blog, produced in my own time and solely reflecting my personal opinions. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of my employer, past or present, or any other organization with which I may be affiliated. All content is copyrighted.
Beyond Our Wildest Dreams (70′s Pop-culture book: Biography)
Posted by: yourpowerfullife on: September 19, 2011
~ The Golddiggers of the Dean Martin Comedy Hour & Rat Pack tour ~
OUR BOOK IS SELLING ON-LINE AT AMAZON & BARNES AND NOBLE!
Over 300 pictures and behind-the-scene stories…
Good reviews… Reduced price…
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1463564570/?tag=beyondourwild-20
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beyond-our-wildest-dreams-alberici-sisters/1033563623
My sister and I would like to thank all who have given their support, stories and well wishes to this book project which took over two years to birth. That would include our family and our fellow performers who were a part of the Dean Martin Golddiggers with us, the musicians, producers, directors, choreographers, mentors, stars and our book producer, Billy Ingram.
Beyond Our Wildest Dreams propels the reader back to the glory days of the Rat Pack, dazzling Las Vegas in the 1970’s and the end of the TV Variety Show era.
A lightening bolt from the heavens struck us lucky! Who knew? We certainly didn’t! After a nation-wide audition of thousands of hopeful young women, my sister and I were chosen to be members of the Dean Martin Golddigger, entertaining audiences with Dean for nearly two decades. What an adventure it was to work and play with Dean, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Louis Prima, Jerry Vale, Bob Hope, Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, Milton Berle, Jonathan Winters, Steve & Eydie, Tom Jones and many other legends!
But our book is not all about glitz and glamour; we also share our struggles growing up with a strict Italian father whose radical ideas about health were way ahead of his time and our mother of nine children with a quirky show business background.
The dark side of the business also shows its ugly head when we toured with Roy Radin, Cotton Club murder victim and when we escaped one of the deadliest mob hits of all time.
Beyond Our Wildest Dreams appeals to a large audience which includes classic TV enthusiasts, Frank and Dean fans or anyone wanting to read an uplifting book about the good ole’ days. We also give you a back stage look into the world of beauty contests.
This was quite a journey, a time in show biz that will be no more and it was a blast!
Biography by: Alberici Sisters, Maria Lauren and Linda Eichberg; Produced by: Billy Ingram; Published by: TvParty Books
To my blog readers, I wish you the joy of well-being. Live each moment to the fullest by being aware of the miracles of life, the miracle of you. You’re the star in the story of your life so let your light shine!
Maria Lauren – yourpowerfullife (AKA: Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio)
Our book website with links to Twitter and Facebook: www.BeyondOurWildestDreams.com
Maria Lauren is also a personal fitness and singing coach. Contact: YGTPower@aol.com
More photos and info about Maria Lauren (Maria Elena Alberici-Riccio): www.MariaLauren.com
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/maria-lauren-riccio/15/295/285; http://facebook.com/Maria.Lauren.Alberici.Riccio; www.LindaEichberg.com; www.TvParty.com; www.kaiserpermanente.org; http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mariannamaria; www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici; www.YouGotThePowerStore.com; www.MariannaRiccio.com; http://www.chestercountynutrition.com
DISCLAIMER: This is a personal Blog, produced in my own time and solely reflecting my personal opinions. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of my employer, past or present, or any other organization with which I may be affiliated. All content is copyrighted.
Keeping my Eyes on the Prize
Posted by: yourpowerfullife on: August 27, 2011
- In: ENTERTAINMENT | FITNESS | Health
- 4 Comments
Bend and Stretch with Maria Lauren
Staying motivated helps us to stick to positive activities. Reminding ourselves of our vision sometimes takes a gentle but strategic reinforcement from a team. A healthy workforce is encouraged at Kaiser Permanente where I am proud to be a lifestyle educator.
“Our goal is to support and inspire ourselves and each other to be our best in mind, body and spirit. Because when we thrive, so do our members, our communities and our organizations.”
The views at Kaiser Permanente can be applied to all areas of our lives.
“Communication is the glue that holds us together. Is communication at meetings open, direct and respectful? Are decisions based on consensus? While all changes do not lead to improvement, all improvement requires change.”
I embrace the following Kaiser Permanente quotes/suggestions and I recommend that you apply these tips into your lifestyle too:
“Exercise is medicine: It’s official. Physical activity is one of the best things for your health. Even small amounts of activity reduce stress, improve your sleep and lower the risk of disease. People who exercise live longer than those who don’t and they have lower rates of ailments such as heart disease and dementia. Also, kids get better test scores the more fit they are!”
“Plan on health: A healthy lifestyle requires some planning, but once healthy choices become a habit, living healthfully will feel easier.”
At Kaiser Permanente, I enjoy teaching certified classes in Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Muscle Conditioning, Dance Exercise and fitness for patients with physical challenges.
“Practice humor: Modern science is beginning to confirm that laughter is enjoyable and promotes good health. A robust laugh gives the muscles of your face, diaphragm and abdomen a good workout. Your heart rate temporarily rises and oxygen surges throughout your bloodstream. Smiling and laughing generates endorphins, powerful feel-good hormones. A good laugh can burn up as many calories per hour as brisk walking. And hearty laughter may even lower blood sugar.”
“Living optimistically, with pleasure, zest and commitment enriches if not lengthens life.” – David S. Sobel, MD
At the conclusion of every fitness class, I lead my participants in a big belly laugh while we ’shake the blues away’ to lift our spirits!
“Go meatless: Going without meat one day per week can make you and the planet healthier. Reducing our meat intake could be a strategy for reducing global warming. Estimates indicate a 20 percent reduction in meat consumption would save as much energy as if everyone drove a hybrid vehicle instead of a standard sedan. Try some new meat-free recipes using high protein ingredients. Use bean or tofu – which is made from soybeans – or try quinoa, a nutty-tasting high protein grain. There may be significant health benefits to eating a vegetarian diet, such as lower rates of heart disease and colorectal cancer.”
I was raised on a vegetarian diet. Raw nuts and seeds were the foods that supplied most of my protein but I ate some diary and eggs too. There was no white sugar or white flour in our home and our family of eleven people thrived. Growing up with healthy values was a blessing that helped me to survive the rigors of entertaining and touring.
In the past years, I’ve added some fish to my diet and continue to exercise daily. Most importantly, I’ve found that feeding my mind and spirit with positive thoughts contributes to my well-being. The words of the Bible have guided me out of many stressful situations and into the peace of knowing that a Higher Power is in charge.
“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” - James 1: 12
Wishing you many blessings,
Maria Lauren – yourpowerfullife (AKA: Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio)
Co-author of book on Amazon: Read stories about great entertainers like the Rat Pack: Frank, Dean and Sammy etc….
www.BeyondOurWildestDreams.com
For retro entertainment video/pictures on Facebook: www.facebook.com/beyondbook
Maria Lauren is also a personal fitness and singing coach: YGTPower@aol.com
Recommended Websites:
www.MariaLauren.com; http://www.linkedin.com/pub/maria-lauren-riccio/15/295/285; www.LindaEichberg.com; www.kaiserpermanente.org; www.YouGotThePowerStore.com; http://www.tvparty.com; http://www.chestercountynutrition.com; http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mariannamaria; www.cdbaby.com/cd/mlaurenaalberici; http://www.myspace.com/mariannariccio
