Drama is the conventional string that takes us from one point of stress to another. I love the Mary J. Blige song “No More Drama”. Girl tells it like it is. We don’t need anymore drama in our lives. This song is truly an inspiration. I am no doctor, therapist or genius, but I know that drama and stress is no good for the body and mind. I am a human being, I can be moody. I can be unkind and Lord knows I have been known to be a Duh-Rama Queen. I know most of you can relate to this. So, the question is… where does drama take us?

My niece has suffered through cold sore outbreaks for most of her life. I’m amazed at how she maintains a great attitude and definitely doesn’t let an outbreak stop her in any way. I’ve used many of the lessons she’s learned and conversations we’ve had to create my 10 Commandments of Cold Sore Outbreaks to live (through your cold sores) by. This is Part II of my two part series. Click here if you missed Part I.

My niece suffers cold sore outbreaks. When she was young, we blamed them on the strawberries she loved to eat. She often comes to me for advice about her outbreaks, to chat about concerns with her self-image and of course to get my style fashion tips. She has inspired me to write the 10 Commandments of Cold Sore Outbreaks. This is Part I of a two part series. Here are the first 5 Commandments to live (through your cold sores) by.

What’s that saying? When life throws you sour lemons, make lemonade? I say fill up your entire glass and enjoy because when you have a cold sore, you don’t have to share a drop of it with anyone! Now how’s that for a silver lining to what is probably not your most favorite occasion, cold sore outbreak time?

Mom has taught you many great lessons in life but even she can’t argue that when it comes to the two weeks you suffer through a cold sore outbreak, it is time to throw some of that etiquette right out the window. You DON’T have to share! Say it with me, I know you’ve been dying to. Mine! Mine! ALL Mine! Oh, that felt good! Almost too good.

My friends have nicknamed me Dr. Self-Esteem. While I too struggle with my own internal battles with my body and self-image – I also realize that I’m my own worst critic. That is why I make it my daily goal to be positive and think positive.

Think about it. Words like viral and contagious – are usually connected with disease and infection. Like our nasty friend the cold sore. But you know what else is contagious? Good vibes! Positive attitudes! Smiles!

Examples of people who pass on good vibes daily? Richard Simmons and Mr. Rogers. Okay – I realize most people aren’t that energetic or nice ALL the time, but you get my point.