Go Green Baby!

Healthier Choices for You and Your Little "Rugrat"! ; )

We're all being influenced to make healthier "green" choices for our lifestyles, but is it ever too early to start? Last Decemeber my oldest sister became a mother to her first baby girl Leah Diane. I know we all say this... but as her Aunt and as my first neice I am allowed, and can proudly say that she is the cutest and sweetest little girl in the world. We recently found out that my sister's second baby ( another girl! ) will be blessing us with her presence this coming September. With this in mind I decided to research healthy choices for A.) Expectant Mothers and B.) Newborn babies. Making sustainable choices now will inevitably effect our futures and furthermore the futures of our children, neices, nephews, grandchildren and so on. If not for




us...lets at least think of them.

We May Hold The Hands Of These Children Now, But They Hold Our Future In Theirs.. <3

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Expectant Mother's

Organic Food does not contain any artificial coloring, sweeteners, preservatives, or flavors.There are many ways for you new (or expecting) mothers or fathers to use eco-friendly and natural products for your little bundle of joy too! Lets start with what whole foods market reccommends as a healthy diet for expectant mothers

1. Yogurt for calcium and probiotics.

2. Dark, leafy greens for calcium, fiber, vitamins and folic acid.

3.Eggs for vitamin A, iron and protein.


4. Fatty fish for omega-3s.
(such as salmon, sardines or trout) Omega 3 is essential for brain development. "Studies have shown that women who eat fish during pregnancy have children with better visual acuity, higher IQ, better language and communication skills, and decreased rates of allergies and asthma." (wholefoodsmarket.com)

NOTE: woman should limit their intake of Omega 3 to no more than 12 ounces of low-mercury fish per week, also, if possible avoid eating fish with darker meat (including tuna, and swordfish). Too much mercury can harm the babies nervous system...

5. Lamb for B12, iron and zinc.

6.Berries for antioxidants and fiber.

7. Sweet Potatoes for vitamins A and E.

8.Avocados for potassium, folic acid, vitamin C, lutein and “good” fat.

9. Legumes for vegetarian protein, fiber, iron, folate, magnesium and zinc.

10. Nuts for fiber, vitamin E and magnesium.

(Thank You Whole Foods!)

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Going Green For the Baby!

Now lets look at some natural alternatives for babies and toddlers that were reccommended by some of the newest mommy's in Bayville, New York...

A. Bisphenol A - free bottles

B. NEW diapers that are now disposable and "eco-friendly" and chlorine free (produced by seventh generation)

C. Organic Bath and Body Products (for both you and your little one!) Such as Peter Rabbit Organics Intense Therapy Cream.

D. Chlorine Free Baby Whipes (produced by seventh generation)

E. Stonyfield Farms "YoBaby Organic Yogurt" (reccomended by pedatricians!)

F. Organic Baby Food and Organic Infant Formula produced by Earth's Best

(new items can be found at www.earthsbest.com)

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On a Personal Note...

I Interviewed my Sister Adele Lee Bolitho on her personal choices as a mother of one, and soon to be mother of two...









Sorry to brag... but I just had to give you all a taste of the little girl that puts a smile on my face each day...enjoy : )

Natural Alternatives for A Healthier Lifestyle

                                                             

I'm sure we've all heard about the recent "green movement" that has been taking over quite rapidly. From Disney World to Starbucks and all the in between many company's have been seeking out organic and natural alternatives to help our high tech world become more... "Eco- Friendly". Although one helping hand may seem like a small step in the right direction - its these baby steps that could potentionally save our universe from an unpleasant future. Adapting to a lifestyle of pollution while living on the brink of global warming doesn't sound very appealing... to me anyway. Personally I don't completely blame our societies lack of effort to "go green". I believe the problem stems from our lack of knowledge about the topic in the first place. Don't get me wrong, ignorance can be bliss from case to case, but not here. We can't ignore what's blaintently in front of us... but we can find ways to help. I've created this blog in the hope to enlighten some of you on the benefits of making natural alternatives to our everyday lives. I know its tough to shake our roots but a slight alteration in our lives could be the answer to some of our most prominant global issues! 

Enjoy : )

Alternatives Near You!

Thyme and Season: organic food market

Whitney Avenue
Hamden, Ct. 06518

203-407-8128

Green Planet Organic Market

900 Main Street

Oakville, CT 06779

860-274-4779

( pics thanks to farm1.com )

But You Ain't Ever Had My Cornbread!

"But you ain't ever had my cornbread...A little bit of heaven, and a little bit of aw yeah!"

- Dave Matthews Band

With this blasting in my ear just a moment ago I became extremely hungry and in the mood for some old fasioned cornbread... just like my mom makes. However, With my recent ambition to "eat healthy" I knew this wouldnt be the best "health food" to choose for my mid morning snack. But don't you worry, for all you cornbread lovers out there I've found a solution! A recipe for a low-fat, oil free, apple cornbread - fresh from the oven. Enjoy!

Ingrediants

1 red delicious apple (it can be overripe)

1 1/2 cup unbleached white flour

1 1/2 blue corn meal

4 1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. sucanat (or other sugar)

2 1/4 cup vanilla lite rice milk, or low-fat soymilk

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 cup apple sauce

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. If you have a 10 inch iron skillet, rub some oil on the cooking surface, and let it heat in the oven. Peel apple and cut into very thin pieces of any size. In a large bowl, combine all other ingredients and then add apple. Do not overmix. Pour into heated iron skillet (or just oil a regular casserole pan, and don't bother to heat it), and bake 35 minutes on the top shelf. When an inserted knife comes out clean, it's done. You may want to let it rest for 10 or 20 minutes to let it settle and firm up, if you want, but that's not necessary. I found this to be a lot more moist than the usual recipe, but it was not at all soggy. Let me know what you think of it. Note: I only put in one apple, but it would probably taste better if you used 2. It may or may not need some more sweetener, like a tablespoon or two of maple syrup or something. I found it subtle, and a bit light. kwvegan vegan

Click Here For Other Great Recipes on..http://www.fatfree.com/recipes/cornbreads/apple-corn-bread

How To Taste The World With-Out Leaving New Haven

After studying abroad many things about me have changed, including, my taste buds... The italian cuisine was nothing less that amazing and it truly sparked my interest to taste other foods from other countries. Lets be realistic though... traveling from country to country to sample their cuisines seems pretty...well... insane and expensive! I decided to research and try different restaurants right here in New Haven that specialize in different foods from around the globe. Here's 10 ways on how to taste the world with-out leaving New Haven. This is for all you dare devils who want to "spice" up their lives... in regaurds to food anyway.

1. Consiglio's
Fine Italian Cuisine!













165 Wooster Streeet
New Haven, CT 06518
Telephone: 203-865-4489

Consiglio's is a divine Italian restaurant that mixes history with great food! Established in the 1930's this popular place is located in the heart of New Haven and is open for lunch and dinner with a variety of great italian cuisine choices and tasteful wine. The atmosphere was very classy and elegant, most people were dressed for the occasion. For my dining experience I asked the waitor what he recommended, and typically I followed his suggestion...

Appetizer: Grilled Portabello Mushroom ( 9.95 ). This dish was absolutely amazing. I will admit i love portabello mushrooms but this appetizer was drizzled in a vinigerette sauce a top the mushroom - definitely worth getting again...

Entree: Eggplant Parmigana: (18.95) This well known italian meal was cooked to perfection with the fresh mozzarella cheeze cooked just enough on top. Sometimes eggplant can be chewy (if its not fresh) but this was soft and easy to cut and chew! The Entree came with your choice of pasta (typically I chose spagetti...) served on the side or underneith the Parm. The portions were decently sized, I even went home with a doggy bag! Consiglio's is definitly a must if you want a true feel of italian culture and food... now thats amore!


Wine: House Merlot






2. Viva Zapata
Mexican Cuisine!















161 Park Street
New Haven, CT 06511
Telephone: 203-562-2499

This fun restaurant is one of the oldest Mexican Restaurants in New Haven. My roomate and I decided to have a night on the town to enjoy some mexican appetizers and margaritas and Viva Zapata was just the place to go. The atmosphere was very casual with a fun flare and loud music. After dinner the fun didn't stop as the customers then went to the bar to continue their night. There was a dinner menu and a bar menu depending upon your preference. The prices were extremely resonable, and for us broke college students this is definitly the place to go to get a cheap and great meal to fulfill our mexicana tasta buds! here's what I got...

Appetizer: Nachos Grande (made for 2!) (7.95). When they say "grande" they mean GRANDE! My roomate and I split this appetizers but our stomachs were speaking louder than our minds as we, without hesitation, got the large plate of nachos (also available in small). These crisp tortillas were topped with 3 different types of cheeze, chicken, jalapenos, beef, sour cream and salsa... stop drooling... I know. Definitely worth repeating ( just next time, maybe with an extra person or 2..)



Entradas (Entrees): Chicken and Beef Taco Combination Plate. (11.95) My roomate and I decided to split this considering how full we were from our intense nacho session. This plate was large and yummy! It came with Chicken Tacos, Beef Tacos, a Cheese Enchilada, Guacamole, Salad, Rice, and beens! If your itching for a mexican atmosphere with a hungry belly this is just the place to be.


Drink: Strawberry Frozen Margarita ( No Salt )



3. Panda Palace ( Take-out )
Chinese Cuisine!






149 Fitch St
New Haven, CT 06515

Telephone: (203) 397-2433


This fun chinese restaurant is a nice way to get your China fix on the go! Typically we are all always rushing, trying to do a million things at once, and who doesn't build up an appetite on a busy day? I know I do!... I was in a rush after reporting in New Haven on Saturday afternoon with my 2 roomates. I had a craving for some chinese food and in front of my eyes was Panda Palace...The prices were very reasonable and the portions were generous. They were quick and accurate with my order. I'm not a huge fan of meat and they had a variety of choices for meat lovers and veggie lovers alike... here's what I got...


Appetizer: Vegetable Lo-Mein (small) (4.25)


Entree: Chinese Vegetables in a garlic brown sauce (4.25) - These veggies came with your choice of fried, brown, or white rice with a fortune cookie! Woa!

4. Miso Japanese Restaurant

Japanese Cuisine!

This Japanese Restaurant had a nice variety of sushi, but it was a little pricey... If your looking for a great japanese dining experience this is definitly the place to go just make sure your prepared for the bill! the cheapest sushi meal was over 19 dollars but you did get a nice portion with salad (and my favorite ginger dressing EVERRR) included...

Appetizer: Grilled Chicken Yaki Tori ( 7.00) this was an impressive way to start my japanese experience, a must have and a definite repeater!

Entree: TEKKA DON sliced tuna and seaweed over seasoned rice (19.00). I'm a sucker for wasabi sauce and ginger so in addition to my rolls I asked for spicey mayo (to all spice lovers a must try!). I got brown rice instead of white and it was seasoned to the T with a light terriaki sauce maranade. This is definitely a nice place to go if your looking for a relaxing sushi meal. Although a little pricey, this is definitely a nice place to take someone out for a friendly date ( just some food for thought : ) )

5. Le Petit Cafe

French Cuisine!

225 Montowese

St, Branford, CT 06405

Telephone: (203) 483-9791

This romantic French setting is a beautiful way to end your day and to have an eliquent meal. The scene was upscale and there were tons of couples dining in this romantic atmosphere.The lighting, the atmosphere, the language and the wine... was to say the least...extremely - romantic. I guess you can't shake your romantic french roots even when you are in the states! The waitor was extrememly helpful and friendly and actually moved to the United States 3 years ago from the south of France! (oh lala! ) Although pricey...this restaurant is definitely a hidden secret of CT...

Appetizer: French Onion Soup (5.50). one word... AMAZING. This is a must have if you make it to le petit. The onions were cooked to the point where they melted in my mouth and the bread underneath the freshly melted (and crispy) mozzarella was moist and delicious.

Entree: Roasted Organic Spring Chicken ' Ballotine": (19.95) This dish (although pricey) was amazing. I have recently been on an organic kick, and to have the option to "go green" so to speak really caught my attention and gave me a new found respect for the restaurant. The chicken was filled with truffles and herbs of all spices and I got the choice of french friends or roasted potatoes as my side ( I typically went with the fries...I mean they do have the word "french" in them..). The Chicken was topped with a port wine sauce that made each bite unique and great! The portions weren't too large but it was just enough for me to go home satisfied.

6.Thali Regional Cuisine of India

Indian Cuisine!

4 Orange Street

New Haven, CT 06510

When I personally think of Indian "thai" food I can't help but remember the classic scene in "Along Came Polly" where Ben Stiller gets extremely sick from trying the spices of Indian cuisine, but despite my accusations I went for it. To my surprise, this was probably one of the most prominant, unique, and delicious meals I have ever tasted. Thali was a bit expensive when it came to their entrees so instead I tried a variety of appetizers (or small plates they call it..) to get a true feel for the indian palate...heres what I got...

Appetizer 1: Kulcha: or in more common terminology the indian form of garlic bread. You had the choice to top your bread with garlic, onions, potatoes, or green chilis, very unique and extremely delecious!

Appetizer 2: Sabji Manchurian; This was my favorite of my experimental starters. As a vegetable and spice lover this dish was perfect for me. It included Cabbage, Cauliflour and Carrot fritters topped with a hot cilantro garlic sauce. My mouth is watering just thinking about it...

Appetizer 3: Chopped Kuchumber: This was a nice and light way to end my meal. This dish included chopped cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes, and chickpeas tossed in a lemon sauce - extremely refreshing and a must repeat!

7. Mother's Homestyle Kitchen

Jamaican and Caribbean Cuisine!

16 Norton St

New Haven, CT 06511

Telephone: (203) 562-3701

In the mood for a carribbean cuisine? Mother's Homestyle Kitchen is jus the place for you. Most people assume tropical food to be mangos, coconuts and pineapples, and you are correct to an extent but the chef's of this restaurant were able to combine tropical spices with the right amount of substance to create superb dish. With the weather getting warmer who doesn't want to feel like their on vacation in the tropics?... With a little Bob Marley blasting in my car I headed out to fulfill my Jamaican cuisine itch... Here's what i got

Appetizer: Vegetable and Pineapple Curry: This dish was filling and well priced, although not a personal favorite ( I think the pineapple threw me off) it was a favorite of my roomates. The spices were very unique it was like biting into a spicey dish with a sweet aftermath. (5.00)

Entree: Callaloo Paties with Coco Bread: A MUST HAVE! This is the non meat eater patty but it is absolutely amazing. It satisfied every craving I had while leaving me full and my wallet not empty. One of my best friends is from Trinidad and always told me to try Callaloo if I truly wanted to experience a taste from the Islands and I am spreading her advice to all of you. My patty was spinich based with chilli powders and a splash of coconut milk. The coco bun was light with small peices of pineapple spread about the bread.

8. Kasbah Garden Cafe

Moroccan Cuisine!

105 Howe St, Apt Rr,

New Haven, CT 06511

Okay, so I know moroccan sounds a bit risky to say the least but trust me on this one. The only time i've had a moraccan dish was in Walt Disney World while "walking the world" in Epcot. I recall my pecan crusted chicken dish and splitting baklava with my mom. After my first encounter I was hooked. I found the hidden secret of moraoccan cuisine right here in New Haven.. Thank you Kasbah!

Appetizer: Harira Soup (Bowl 4.95) A traditional Moraccan soup and its absolutely "Moraculous". This soup has the perfect blend of chic peas, tomatoes, parsley and lentins in a light brown broth. The spices spark your palate and leave you wanting more ( hence why I ordered the bowl instead of the cup...)

Entree: Chicken Couscous (9.95). This dish was extrememly filling and well priced. The chicken was tendorly grilled along with grilled vegetables that was put on top of the lemon cous cous, this dish was unique, and easy to make! ( just in case you want to bring a little Morocco home!)

9. The Greek Olive Restaurant

Greek Cuisine!

100 Church St S, Ste 4,

New Haven, CT 06519

Telephone: (203) 789-1881

In the mood for genuine greek cuisine? Head over to the Greek Olive Restaurant for some garlic spread apps and a bite to eat! I'm not an expert on greek food but this was above all the best taste of Greece i've ever had..

Entree: Felafel: (5.75) This blend of chick peas was topped with white tzasiki sauce (it could also get red) served with a warm pita and side salad with my absolute favorite cheeze... feta. I ordered extra Domata olives ( which are the grape leaves wrapped around rice with a garlic tinge). This meal was filling and cheap! Definitely a must do in New Haven

10. Five Guys Burgers and Fries

American Cuisine!

75 Amity Rd

New Haven, CT 06515
Telephone: (203) 285-3016

Last but definitely not least god bless the U.S.A and these hearty burgers! I know at the end of the day sometimes all we crave is a big juicy burger with American cheese ketchup and fries - such Americans. Five Guys also offers hearty hot dogs for you non burger people... Here's my top pick for the best burgers in New Haven... trust me on this one..

Entree: Cheeseburger with Jalapeno Peppers and Grilled Mushrooms with a side of cajun fries and BBQ sauce.( Other toppings include relish, grilled onions, tomatoes, pickles, lettuce, green peppers, mayo, A-1 sauce and BBQ sauce). Bite your way to a satisfied stomach with this all American Burger.

Well folks now you have it. No more excuses on not tasting the worlds fine foods because you couldn't make it to the origin of the cuisine, right here in New Haven you can experience dining from around the globe - Bon appetit!

Oh Rolling Stones - "My life would suck with out you"...

Last night while getting ready my Itunes was typically playing to keep up my "weekend" mood. I'll willingly admit my songs are extremely random and can hop from the Beatles to Bob Dylan to T.I and Jewel. But as my songs "shuffled" I realized how absurd today's music is compared to the legends of the 60's , 70's, 80's and even the 90's. I've always been a fan of Bob Dylan, I remember my dad playing his "Like a Rolling Stone" in the car on my way to my first day of middle school. I didn't understand it then, or why this song was a "hit" compared to my favorite of the time Ashanti and Jarules "where would I be without you". And now, I get it, I actually get it. Lets just take a look at Bob Dylans lyrics of "Just like A Rolling Stone" to the new number 1 of 2009, Kelly Clarksons "My life would suck with-out you". First and foremost - just look at the titles and you tell me what your first impression is, this is our generations "classics" - sad.

"Once upon a time you dressed so fine

You threw the bums a dime in your prime, didn't you?

People'd call, say, "Beware doll, you're bound to fall"

You thought they were all kiddin' you

You used to laugh about Everybody that was hangin' out

Now you don't talk so loud

Now you don't seem so proud

About having to be scrounging for your next meal.
How does it feel

How does it feel

To be without a home

Like a complete unknown

Like a rolling stone?"

When you read this, you feel for him, you connect with this "complete unknown" and how their life changed in the blink of an eye. His lyrics tell a story a story that is creatively told through metaphor and poetry. Dylan captures his audience in the mear 4 minutes of voice to ear by involving the listener, asking how it feels and furthermore evoking questions in our own minds. His lyrics actually form words of wisdom, advice and emotion. Its intriguing that a man can take a lonely feeling and compare it to the decent of a rolling stone. Legends such as Dylan create songs with melody accompanied by lyrics that sound more like poetry as opposed to a desperate overpopulated pop song.

Now lets look at Kelly Clarkson...

"You’re standing at my door

Guess this means you take back what you said before

Like how much you wanted anyone but me

Said you’d never come back but here you are again

Cuz we belong together now forever united here somehow

You got a piece of me

And honestly - My life would suck without you"

Ok...first of all, this guy that she supposedly "belongs with forever" left her and told her he wanted anyone other than her - in real life if someone previously involved in a relationship said that to their partner do you really think they would welcome them back with open arms? I know I wouldnt. the fact that she is A) actually taking him back and B) assuming they are destined is funny. She uses the word "like" in her lyrics to describe what he said - that isnt even proper english. Her ending line is "my life would suck without you" I'm sorry but this is sad. I will admit, I actually like the tune, i've sang along with her it is rather... catchy, but when I take a look at her "words of wisdom" as portrayed in her lyrics its more like a pathetic settlement with a guy who treated her badly then poetic advice- it makes me a little...well - nautious.

W

Seriously...What is a "Serious" ?

Or...

When we think of college life and connect aspects of it with the word "serious"... what can you come up with? Schoolwork, scheduling, maybe organization or even sleep time... but what about connecting college life with a "serious relationship"? Some people say never get too serious with someone in college, its your time to be selfish to find you, yet others have told me they met their soul mates in the 4 years that they attended a University. My question to you is what exactly is "serious" or "too serious" or maybe "not serious enough...". Do we really need the added pressure? I interviewed some QU students on their perspective of a serious college relationship - Seriously, what is serious?

( Interviewer would like to remain anonymous...)

Q: When you hear the word "college" what are the first 5 words that come to mind?

A: Party, Friends, Roomates, A Degree, Beer

Q: Of those words of which would you define it with the word "serious"?

A: Honestly... only the degree, I also take my friendships seriously but I wouldn't define them as "serious".

Q: Do you have a boyfriend?

A: Not at the moment, I did, he was a nice guy but when I left for college we decided to go our seperate wats we thought it was only fair for us to experience college life to the fullest.

Q: What do you mean "to the fullest"?

A: I mean the whole college experience without any ties at home, when you have one foot in the door and one foot out someone usually gets hurt and who wants to get hurt? I sure don't...

Q: Do you feel a serious relationship in college is pointless?

A: I don't like the word "pointless" I do think there is a point to everything. But do I think flings are more likely? Absolutely. A lot of the time one person gets more serious then the other, due to fear or whatever, and when that happens the "serious relationship" turns into a horror movie with a very unhappy ending.

Q: How "serious" do you think a relationship should get during the "college stage" of a persons life?

A: That word makes me laugh actually. Some girls I know would consider a drunken Saturday night make-out sesh, "serious" where as other people consider that a joke, and frankly half of them, don't even remember the "true love" kiss that happened on a blacked out toads night. I say stay away from the seriousness until you get the college thing out of your system. Who wants to be tied down during the only true free time in your life. Its up to the person though. Some people have serious personalities. If you do find "true love" thats great! Hang on to it! But these college years fly by in the blink of an eye, I'm just saying take advantage of it - however you see fit.

Q: If you do get your heartbroken from a college "love" whats your advice on moving on?

A: Listen to Mariah Carey's Heartbreaker - makes me smile everytime...

Well, you heard it from one of your very own classmates. I guess her definition serious is a little too unserious for a college relationship...and for any of you who have had your heartbroken - here's a little Mariah to help you out... Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKQOTnWb9GU&feature=PlayList&p=7168E9866235D5D4&playnext=1&index=28

The 10 Commandments of College Fitness

The common phrase we hear before we enter our college careers is to "watch that weight" and to "beware of those beer belly's". Staying in shape can be a difficult thing to do when your outside of your comfort zone and furthermore changing your daily routine in a new place with new people. With the help of Quinnipiac University's very own athletic trainer Adam Pallone we have come up with 10 helpful tips on how to stay in shape and keep that weight off through-out your college years!

Tip 1: STRETCH I know its sometimes hard to find the time to exercise with your busy schedules but this exercise you can do right in your dorm room even inbetween classes. It sounds silly but stretching is a very important and quick thing to do as a means of working out (especially before an intense work- out). Pallone says "Any type of stretching will benefit you - taking 5 minutes will enhance your althetic performance". Stretching not only helps you athletically but releaves stress and tension in the body.

Quick Stretch Gluteus Maximus and Thigh: Put your pressue on your left leg as you stretch your right leg back. Lengthen your back and place your hands on your left leg. Feel the stretch as you lengthen your right leg - now switch.

Tip 2: NO LATE NIGHT EATING. I know being on campus and staying up late can make late night food consumption almost inevitable but if you can... avoid eating 3 hours before bedtime. Late night munchies remain in your stomach and get stored in the body resulting in weight gain and possible sickness. Pallone says "Late night eating is not a good thing but on campus I know its hard, if your going to do it try to eat something healthy or something low in saturated fats and nothing high in sugar".

Late Night Snack Option: Pita chips dipped in hummus

Here's a link to a healthy roasted red pepper hummus recipe! Enjoy...
http://www.amihungry.com/hummus-recipe.sht

Tip 3: Find Alternative Ways to Exercise. Getting to the gym can be a hastle but there are many other ways to get your exercise in other than trucking to the gymnasium. For example take the stairs instead of the elevator, this can burn calories and also get you to your destination. Walk to class or work instead of driving - this is a fun way to switch up your daily routine while burning some cals! I know we all like to park our cars close to the entereance of wherever we're going but sometimes take the farther spot and walk, enjoy the scenery. Pallone says "even walking is great for you! 60 minutes a day of any type of exercise can make a difference".

Tip 4: Switch up your exercise machine. There are days where all we want to do is run our little hearts away - if so the treadmill is your answer! This machine effectively burns tons of calories while giving you an intense work-out. If you want to get a great work-out just a little less intense choose the eleptical and if you would like a little less of a work-out choose the bike. Its a good idea to switch up your machinery and the intesity of your work-out A. So you don't get bored and B. to give our muscles a break. Pallone says "if you have an injury do not run, it has the most impact on your knees, hips and back - walking is your best bet"

Tip 5: Make Healthier Choices: I know we've heard this statement over and over but choosing the healthier option for a snack or a mean truly does make a difference. I know it can be difficult the apple never looks as good as that slice of pizza but I am sure you all have noticed after eating healthier we feel healthier. Pallone says "steer away from the pizzas and try not to always take the quick approach to a snack option like a bag of chips". Keep fresh fruits and vegetables around your kitchen and even if its just 2 times a week try the healthier option.

Here's a healthy recipe for some

Spiced Apple Bran Muffins! Enjoy...
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/apple_bran_muffin.html

Tip 6: Always Eat Breakfast! In college I know many of us tend to...well...sleep through breakfast but no matter what time you wake up eating something is essential. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day - it jump starts your metabolism. Pallone says "You have to eat breakfast, even a small meal to start your metabolism". Even if your in a rush grab a quick snack for the go... here are some healthy and quick breakfast options...

*Low-Fat Yogurt ( you can even add a spoonful of your favorite jelly or jam)

*Low-Fat Cheese (cottage cheese is always a nice choice)

*Whole Grains (whole grain bagel or cereal)

*Fresh Fruit or Vegetables (try them in juices - this is a quick way to "eat" on the go)

Tip 7: Try smaller meals more frequently: Some people say 3 meals a day is sufficient but to avoid snacking through-out the day try having more meals just smaller portions. Pallone says " 4-5 smaller means might be a better alternative. If you split lunch into 2 snacks for example you will still have the same calorie intake but you are spreading out the meal making you less likely to snack in between".

Tip 8: Don't Get Obsessive! Its one thing to be health concious and another to become health obsessed. It's ok to indulge once in a while. If you become fixated on what you eat you will most likely eat worse - in this case "you want what you can't have" is 100 percent accurate. If you want chocolate, have it, just not a pound of it. Eat until you feel satisfied!

Helpful Tip!

Try Dark Chocolate - it lowers high blood pressure.

Tip 9: Stay Hydrated! Mama always said to drink tons of water, and she was right! Staying hydrated keeps your metabolism heightened and helps to prevent hunger cravings. Water helps to clean out your system and keep you healthy its reccomended to have 8 glasses or more of water per day. Keep a water bottle on you!

Tip 10: Keep up with your vitamin intake. Vitamins are an essential part of staying healthy. In college its sometimes hard to gain all the nutrients we should be but if possible it is very important in maintaining a healthy body and mind. Vitamin B Complex helps regulate your nervous system and as college students stress is definitely a part of our lives. You can obtain B-12 in eggs, bread, and whole grain cereals. Another essential vitamin is vitamin D which helps to strengthen your bones - try to get at least 15 minutes of sun every day to obtain the reccomended amount.

Last Thoughts - I leave you with this...

The effects of a full moon... can you handle this?

Walking back from class tonight I noticed the full moon... It's one of those things that gets so commonly overlooked that we forget to notice, or take the time to notice it. We know that a full moon effects the tides of the ocean with its gravitational pull, but what else does it affect? The bright light tonight sparked my interest so of course I came home and immedietly googled the true effects of a full moon furthermore the effects of tonights full moon... can the moons natural cycle affect the cycle of human behavior??? Creepy - I know...Here's what I got...

First, in reference to babies, known by psychologists as "Lunar Babies":

" 11,025 births over a period of six years and found that nearly 1,000 more children were conceived during the waxing moon. Apparently, successful conception is easier at that time. More interesting are the results of German researcher W. Buehler. In an analysis of 33,000 births Dr. Buehler found that there was a significant preponderance of male births during the waxing moon." ( http://www.innerself.com/Astrology/full_moon.htm )

second, mass excitement/hysteria:

Soviet professor A. C. Tchyivsky has correlated the eleven-year cycle with what he calls a worldwide “mass excitement cycle”. He found that throughout history events such as wars, migrations, crusades, uprisings, and revolutions have clustered"

SCARY!

On the other hand however...it is noted that such myths are only believed due to the medias portrayal of the moon linking itself with "looneys"

"Lunar myths are frequently presented in films and works of fiction. "With the constant media repetition of an association between the full moon and human behavior it is not surprising that such beliefs are widespread in the general public" (Kelly et al. 1996). Reporters also "favor those who claim that the full moon influences behavior." It wouldn't be much of a story if the moon was full and nothing happened, they note. Anecdotal evidence for lunar effects is not hard to find and reporters know that one good anecdote trumps ten scientific studies when it comes to reader interest, even though such evidence is unreliable for establishing significant correlations. " http://skepdic.com/fullmoon.html

just some food for thought, interesting stuff!

Grammy's Tonight!

http://www.grammy.com/
The countdown is a little over an hour for the 51st annual grammy awards! Check it out on cbs tonight at 8 pm. Coldplay And Lil Wayne are both nominated for best album of the year, their "viva la vida" or "The Carter III" what do you guys predict?