Hiking in the White Mountains this Weekend

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We're going hiking this weekend and that got me thinking. I love hiking, even in winter. In fact, I'll hike in any weather as long as I have the right hiking boots. I remember once I submerged my foot in water during the winter. My boots were really cheap and falling apart, and water started to leak through. The boots I have now would make an excellent gift for someone because they keep my feet dry no matter what.

In terms of gift giving (and I know it's that time of year) boots such as hunting boots are a great idea. When out in the woods, if your feet are unhappy (cold, wet, too hot) then you won't have as much fun as you had planned. At metboots.com you can find all kinds of boots that will make great gifts - and you even get free shipping for orders $100 or more.

Stay Slim During the Holidays

You know, just because it's the holidays - it doesn't mean you have to overeat. Yes, we attend gatherings with buffets and elaborate desserts. And, what's Christmas without your favorite treats?

Instead of depriving yourself of them, eat them. Just slice a smaller piece and make sure that you also put some fruit in your plate.

One thing I like to do is go for a run in the morning on a day where I know I'll be eating more than usual. It helps. Then, after I eat, I try to go walking. Burning calories is always a good thing on days like that. Before leaving for my parents' house on Thanksgiving, my husband and I both went running.

Other than that, eat healthy foods when you're at home. Don't fall into the trap of "losing it" for the whole month - that's when the pounds creep on.

Travel is Good for the Soul - Try Ireland!

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I love traveling. It's so fun learning about another culture. I've been all over the UK but one place I haven't been yet is Ireland. When I do go, I'll need to find a hotels such as dublin hotels. But I'm intrigued, especially with a city like Dublin - we came close to going this past October, but it didn't work out.

There are so many places to visit in Ireland such as Dublin, where you can see places like Dublin Castle and the Guiness Sorehouse, Newcastle (in which case, you'll need some newcastle hotels) where you can see places like The Quayside, and Leeds.

If you decide to go, you'll want to book your trip in advance, especially during peak tourist season or during one of their famous festivals. And, make sure you take some time to venture away from the cities and observe country life.

Relaxation and Travel

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Sometimes, the only way we can truly relax is if we take a vacation. And relaxing is important to help keep stress levels down. If we spend so much time working, then that can make our stress levels rise. This can put a toll on our bodies and cause us to gain weight. In fact, it can cause all kinds of health problems.

That is why you should try to book a trip at least once a year. And, it is a good idea to book things like Hoteles online. Espanol.hotels.com is a website where you can book your arrangements and it is designed for the Spanish - speaking community in the United States. It's definitely worth a look.

Getting Back into Running

In fact, I may be running a marathon in April. I'm getting back in the habit of running several times a week. For a while, tae kwan do was my main cardiovascular training. If I am going to get in shape for a possible marathon and winter hiking, then I need to run.

The proposed marathon is Vienna on April 27. I'll need to start training in a few weeks. Today I ran three miles on the treadmill. It takes me at least a mile to get focused. Once I get in the zone, running actually becomes fun. But it takes a good 10-13 minutes into the run for me to get to that place.

Holiday Weight Loss Diet - Fat Fighting Foods

During the holidays, sometimes it can be hard to lose weight or even prevent yourself from gaining weight. The buffet table is loaded with things that are not good for you - Things that are high in calories and fat.

But, not all foods are bad. It is possible to make great food choices throughout the holidays, no matter what you are faced with at your festive holiday gatherings. In fact, you can actually lose weight by eating certain foods.

The fact is, there are a lot of Fat Fighting Foods. If you eat them, you'll get the results you want, no matter what time of the year it is.

This isn't a food - but I know that green tea can help burn fat. Three cups of green tea a day help you burn an additional 90 calories per day. Not bad!

Losing Weight During the . Holidays

I have put myself in the difficult situation of needing to lose weight during the holidays. I am packing on some extra pounds, and I want them all to be gone. I tell myself that it shouldn't be that hard to do it, but I have been thinking about how I want to lose weight for some time.

I just haven't done it. I haven't really made the commitment.

So here it is, the holidays. This is the time of year where there are lots of tasty baked goods and plenty of holiday gatherings filled with food.

What's my plan?

To wake up, weight myself, and log everything I eat. And go for a three mile run. I know I can do this.

Training to Run an April Marathon

It's that time of year again - if you are training to run an April Marathon, you'll either need to start training soon, or your training should be well underway. A good training program lasts about 18 weeks.

Which marathon do you want to run? Boston is probably the most popular. Off the top of my head I know the Big Sur marathon in CA is also in April, and so is Vienna.

Do you want to run your first marathon? Now is as good a time as anyway. Pick one, and then choose a training program that makes sense for your fitness level. This is the one I chose when I ran my first marathon:

http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/Mar00index.htm

I used the novice plan.

Building a List for your health company

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Do you want to succeed? Do you operate your business online in any way? No matter if you have a brick and mortar health business or an online business, building a list can help you make more money. To build it quickly, you will need a list broker. A list broker is someone who helps you build it by doing research and finding people who will want to buy your product. Not all list building tools are effective. However, Martin Worldwide has a system that is not only effective, it can really help you increase your income. The secret to their success is their extensive database. A lot of people who have health related businesses are very passionate about what they do. Unfortunately, if you don't have the potential customers and you don't let people know that your product or service is out there, you won't be able to spread the word and help people through your company.

Have You Watched Planet Earth?

I saw part of only one episode, but the little bit that I saw - I was really impressed. It is wonderful that there is a series that helps show people the beauty of the planet. Perhaps if more people knew how special it was, they wouldn't abuse it. Today when I was mowing the lawn, you wouldn't believe how much garbage I picked up from the grass. As a start, why not throw your trash away instead of on the ground? It can actually hurt the eco system. Metal from cans may kill certain creatures, and birds could strangle themselves on those plastic 6 pack rings. Everything we do, whether good or bad, has some kind of an impact.

Vote For Your Favorite Animal on Animal Planet

There are tons of species that are facing extinction because of the current state of our planet. Animal Planet is currently doing something where they are having people vote on their favorite animal. You can vote once a day, and each time you vote the network will donate one dollar to the World Wildlife Fund. This can really add up - especially if you tell everyone you know to do the same!

Tea tree oil for dental health

Tea tree oil is one of my favorite things to use to keep my teeth and gums healthy. I remember my husband said he had a cavity and he had to go back to the dentist in a few weeks to have it filled. I had him put a drop of tea tree oil on his toothbrush with his toothpaste before he brushed his teeth. He did what I told him to do, and when he went to the dentist, the dentist said there was no cavity there and he could go home. The dentist assumed the xray was wrong, but I knew better! :)

More Health Articles at Ehow.com

I write seven new health articles each month for ehow.com so it is worth it to check out my profile often. Plus, there is a forum there and you can go and ask your health questions. I'll do my best to answer them. I am an herbalist, so I can answer questions about alternative remedies the best. I'll be publishing several more articles this month, including one on wheat grass an another on herbal remedies for nausea.

Going to School Can Enrich Your Life

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Have you given going back to school any thought? If so, it could enrich your life. Plenty of people out there realize that they either need a career change, or that they simply can't afford the time or the money to go to a school that has an actual campus. That's why online schools like capella university are so important. Capella is an accredited school that is completely online and offers a wide variety of programs. Basically, if you want to go to school online, this is a school with a good reputation that may have what you need. So many of us are in jobs that we don't like. Why not take your life to the next level by getting your degree and changing your career?

Healthy Eating After Thanksgiving

If you're like most people, you overate (big time) during Thanksgiving. Thankfully there are some things that you can do to help relieve the bloating and prevent excessive weight gain. Here are some of my best tips:

• Drink green tea - one cup of green tea helps you burn an extra 80-90 calories.
• Put lemon in your water - the lemon will help your liver detox the extra fat and any alcohol you may have eaten.
• Exercise - go to the gym, go for a run - do something at least two days out of the long weekend.

And most of all, eat healthy the rest of the week!

Healthy Christmas Gifts

When it comes to giving and receiving Christmas gifts, baskets are always a good choice - especially those that involve either gourmet food, fruit, or spa products. I found a healthy gift basket from USAFlorist.com


This is the perfect gift for someone who loves to eat healthfully but needs to find some variety. Click on the image to view this basket and other choices from USAFlorist.com.

Collecting Coins Can Be Lucrative

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As someone who cares about the earth around me, I understand that it is filled with precious metals and precious resources. These precious metals have been mined for centuries and have been valued highly since ancient times. That's why when it is time for me to invest, I think about purchasing things such as a morgan silver dollar because of how valued it is. In fact, Monaco Rare coin is a company I would strongly consider doing business with because it is part of the Monex company group. I've come to understand Monex as a well established company when it comes to dealing with precious metals and coins because of how safe and secure they are. They also have a great reputation. The benefit to buying silver coins is that you are not only investing in the metal itself, but also dealing with the collection aspect of the business. Monaco Rare Coin employs tons of experts that can help you out.

How to Lose Weight During the Holidays

Have the extra pounds been creeping on? I know that the holidays are here. So, you may think that it is a lost cause - that you should just wait until all of this is over.

The problem with that is you may find that you've gained even more weight.

Why not try to lose weight during the holidays anyway? Think about how many times you actually go out and meet up with friends and family. Once, twice a week? You can still work on losing weight 5-6 times a week.

I've heard of people who give themselves one day a week where they can eat anything they want. They do just that, and they still meet their weight loss goals fairly quickly.

Just learn how to manage your portions, and only eat those holiday treats when you are with your loved ones.

Do you want an extra boost? The Weight Loss Black Book is filled with advice and inspiration on how to lose weight quickly and effectively. The plan is healthy, and you eat 5-6 times a day. You can't go wrong with that!

How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

The holidays are wonderful time to get together with family. Most of us do a lot of eating and drinking while we spend time with our loved ones. Between the extra calories and the fact that it is cold and flu season - it is hard to stay healthy.

I wrote an article over at ehow.com on How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays. It focuses on weight control and techniques you can use to keep the pounds off.

And, if you have a cold or came down with the fly, I've written some articles that will help. Check out my complete profile to find what you need.

What to do if you Have a Sinus Infection

I have a constant problem. It seems that every time I get a cold, I either end up with a sinus infection or I end up pretty close to getting one. One thing I noticed is that if I feel one coming on, I can usually stop it using natural means, such as peppermint tea or a powerful nutritional supplement designed for that purpose.

In my research, I realized that taking antibiotics all the time is not the answer because it can strain our immune systems. The goal is to beat a sinus infection before it starts. And if I can't do that, I'd much rather give myself a day or two to see if natural methods work out well. Of course, I know that there is a point where I may need to see a doctor.

Check out the article I wrote on How to Use Peppermint for Sinus Pain.

What if You Start Ignoring Your Health?

What do you do if you start ignoring your health? The weight starts to creep on. You feel tired all the time. I sort of went through this. I'm active, but lately I've been gaining weight. How do I plan to get back on track?

1. Walk more. I walk 5-7 times a week in the mornings now, in addition to my regular exercise routine.
2. Keep everything tidy. When the house is clean, it's very freeing. So now I try to keep it clean.
3. Drink herbal tea. I love the way herbal tea makes me feel. I have a plan to drink a few cups a day. Right now I love chamomile and red clover.
4. Eat nourishing foods. The goal of eating should be to give us energy - to nourish. So, I've been focusing more on good protein sources, whole grains, and fruits and veggies than I have in the past.
5. Water. When I don't drink enough water I feel tired and sluggish. To prevent this from happening, I make it a point to drink enough.
   

Boost Metabolism With Herbs to Help Lose Weight

Your metabolism is a delicate thing. If it goes out of balance (and with these stressful times, that isn't hard to do) you can gain wait.

And the problem with this is once your metabolism is out of whack, it takes a while to get things back to normal. And until you do, you won't be able to lose weight.

Herbs can help. There are several herbs that can help boost your metabolism. I like to approach fixing metabolism from a variety of different perspectives.

Want more information? Check out How to Boost Your Metabolism with Herbs at ehow.com.

Ginger Brown Sugar Body Scrub Recipe

This is my favorite body scrub, especially in winter. I like brown sugar a little better than granulated. But feel free to experiment. Oh, and organic is definitely best!

1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup cold pressed olive oil
2 drops chamomile essential oil
1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger root

Mix all the ingredients together in a small dish. Use right away. Feel free to double it and store it in an airtight container for future use. It will keep up to a week.

Taking Magnesium for Health

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If you want to enhance your state of health, sometimes you need to take a supplement such as magnesium. This is one supplement that you'll want to take especially if you workout a lot and sweat a lot, or if you have a deficiency of the mineral because of poor diet. For example, if you have menstrual cramps or migraines then you know that a magnesium supplement is probably something that can help.

The best form to take it is through liquid magnesium. Magonate is the only liquid supplement available for Magnesium gluconate. You want to take a liquid because it is absorbed in the body a lot better than a pill. This means that in a pill, some of the mineral may get wasted. This is not the case with a liquid.

There are several ways that magnesium can get depleted. You could have a diet that doesn't have enough of it. Or, you could exercise a lot and have it escape through your sweat. Those are just two examples. One thing is for sure - a supplement is something that can help a lot.

Do You Have Fall Allergies?

For some of us, seasonal allergies should be winding down. I am thankfully one of those who gets some relief. However, this is not the case for my husband. He's been sneezing and dealing with his allergies for quite some time.

My favorite herb for allergies is Stinging Nettle. If you want to try it out, check out my article at ehow on How to Treat Allergies with Stinging Nettle. I drink stinging infusion throughout the year to boost my level of overall health and to help with my allergies. (I'm allergic to mold which is something that stays with me all year).

Herbal Remedies for Digestive Distress

When I have a stomach ache, I have several herbal remedies I turn to. Here is a short list of some of my favorites:

• Chamomile - This is by far my favorite. It's gentle and manages to calm the aches down, especially if the stomach ache is caused by stress.
• Peppermint - This is the herb I reach for if my stomach ache is the resule of flatulence. As a side note, I also use this for sinuses.
• Digestive bitters - Herbs that are slightly bitter, such as dandelion, also help with stomach aches, especially if the stomach ache is the result of a full stomach.

If those three don't work, I may need to do some extra digging and find the cause of the stomach ache so I can find some additional herbal remedies.

Herbal Medicine Ehow Expert

I am the Herbal Medicine Expert at ehow.com. Lately, I've been wanting an outlet to share my herbal knowledge with people and help them. Well, this is it.

Here's a link to my profile - http://www.ehow.com/members/kohuether.html

I also have several articles in the system and will be adding more shortly. All of my articles have to do with herbal medicine related topics.

Using Progesterone

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Menopause can be a difficult time, especially if your hormones or out of balance. That is why a lot of women turn to progesterone - it really helps them. Menopause is a natural part of life. But what isn't natural are all the painful side effects. The best way to take it is with a progesterone cream.

You can find natural progesterone cream at health stores, department stores, and online. But before you purchase a cream, such as bioidentical progesterone cream, it is important to do research about the product and the company. If you don't you may end up with a product that doesn't work or makes you feel worse.

Keeping Hair Healthy

I try to have healthy hair. I went through a period of time when I abused my hair. I got a perm. I used over the counter hair dye. I continually used my curling iron. Now, I don't do that anymore. I one went almost a year without getting a haircut, and my stylist said my hair was healthy.

Here's what I do:

• I don't blow dry it
• I only use a straight iron once in a while and I ALWAYS use ceramic ones, which are better for your hair
• To defrizz I use leave-in conditioner
• I don't use hair products
• I was my hair only 2-3 times a week

That's really it. In winter, I sometimes apply oil before washing my hair.

Purchasing Organic Goods

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One thing that I've learned is that organic is definitely the way to go. It is important to eat organic food, for example, because it is simply better for you. Not only are there no chemicals, which can harm your body, but they are also richer in vitamins.

I also like to purchase other organic products such as those for the body. Lotions and creams absorb into your skin. If these are full of chemicals they can harm you. Organic skin care is definitely important.

Organic health products are also important. When you take things like organic vitamins, you are feeding your body with the right things to keep you healthy.

Quick, Healthy Dinner Ideas

I've been on the go a lot lately. I find that unless I plan ahead or have some kind of dinner lined up that doesn't take long to make, I end up eating things that are bad for me. So to avoid it, I came up with a list of quick, healthy dinners.

• Baked chicken breast with lemon pepper seasoning and a big salad
• Salads of any kind, especially if veggies are pre-cut - add meat for extra protein
• Homemade soup. I like to make a big pot when I have some spare time and then eat it throughout the week

I try to have at least one of these three things on hand for when I need a quick meal.

Get a Degree

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Do you want to get a degree? Maybe you already have one and want to change fields. Or perhaps you just want to extend your education. I have found that higher education is very important. Capella is one of those schools you should check out. They have been doing this for a while and specialize in distance learning. They have all kinds of new programs, too. That means that you can easily find the degree that you want and that you have even more choices. Distance learning is a great way to make sure that you get your degree in time because you can fit it into your lifestyle. It also tends to be less expensive than some of the universities that are out there.

Trail Snacks

I love hiking. I have found that there are certain things I love to take with me on the trail and others I am not fond of. I don't like sports drinks, sports gels, and most fitness bars (except promax). But I LOVE the follwing:

• honey
• water
• pretzels
• baked lays potato chips
• dried fruit
• trail mix
• granola bars
• nuts

I have found that if I eat throughout the day, I have more stamina. These are easy foods to eat.

Eating Healthy on the Go

When we are in a rush, that is when it is likely to make bad food choices without thinking about it. Instead, try making it easy to make good choices. Here are some tips:

• precut vegetables like carrot sticks and celery sticks and leave them in fridge
• wash all fruits and veggies and let them dry before you put them in the fridge
• make some sandwiches and put them in the freezer
• premake things like pancakes and waffles. You can heat them up.
• Learn how to make healthy granola bars, or find some at the store.
• Look at the menu and order the healthiest item.

Direct Mail Service for Business Owners of all Industries

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If you have a business, you should consider using a service to help you with your direct mail campaign. There is a company called Martin Worldwide that has a product called ResponseCom that can help you with your Travel leads. No matter what industry you are in, including health and fitness, this is something that can really help you keep track of your database and direct mail needs. They have a unique feature where they back their database up in print just in case the system crashes. However, they've been in business for around a decade so they have had a lot of practice getting things right. If you have a business, you know you need all the help you can get to make things easier.

Hiking in Mount Rainier

I went hiking five out of the last six days in the park. This was such a great way to explore the park! Because of all the hiking I've done, I've noticed an increase in leg strength. I've been hiking at least once a week since the summer began.

I would alternate a long hike with a short one. I did two long ones and five short onces. By short I mean three miles or less. I wonder if I've lost any weight?

10,000 Steps - A New Goal

I have a new goal - to walk 10,000 steps a day. Yesterday I went well past that. Today, I am not even close. That doesn't mean I won't succeed today. I am determined to. But, I need to make sure that I get off the couch and walk around once in a while.

Right now I am at 2872 steps and it is almost 5 o'clock.

In addition, I am going to an aerobics class at 6:30. My sister teachers Body Jam, a Les Mills class (a company in Australia). If you have the opportunity to go to a Les Mills class, it's a real treat. They are fun and they train their instructors really well, which means you can actually DO it without feeling confused.

Natural Health is Important

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I don't know about you, but I love knowing that there are resources out there that will help you when you are sick - resources that are natural. A lot of people don't realize this but eating well and making lasting changes through natural health products are very important.

When you are looking for resources and information on natural health, Oasis Advanced Wellness is a good source for you. They help you by offering a resource for you to buy products AND learn about them. It is important to know waht you are purchasing, otherwise you could cause yourself some harm.

Oasis Advanced Wellness offers much more than natural health supplements. They also offer things like consulting and customized health problems. It is worth it to check them out.

Counting Protein

I don't get enough protein, so I started counting protein grams. I've realized that it is easier than I think to get 100g a day. Since I have an intense workout schedule, I need protein for my muscles to heal.

Here are some tips I've come up with:

• one can of tuna supplies 23 g. that's considerable!
• Soy milk is high in protein and a great snack.
• Almonds are also a good source of protein.
• Even seaweed has 1g of protein.
• Instead of gatorade for a sports drink, I've been drinking accelerade which has 6g protein for the bottle.

Recovering After Exercise

I am working on boosting my nutrition so that I can recover after a hike or any other exercise. If I am going to be active, my muscles need to heal so I can get stronger. Here is how I will do it:

• 8 servings of fruits and vegetables a day for antioxidants (free radicals can cause swelling)
• take a multivitamin
• 100g of protein

So far I've had 1 serving fruits and vegetables and 15g protein.

Purchasing Metals

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When it comes to investing, I like to keep it natural. What better way to do that than to purchase things like silver bars? If you are interested in investing in precious metals, you are in good company. It is popular because it is timeless. It is also natural and a good thing to do. Monex is a company that is good at what they do because they understand the benefits of investing in metals. They've also been doing it for a while. If you want to go with a company who can ship things like gold bars to you in a safe and secure way, consider them. Why would you want to invest in metals? Well, they never go out of style. They have seriously been popular and reverred since ancient times. This is not an investing fad but something that could really pay off.

Foods to Eat While Hiking

Here is a short list of my favorite hiking foods:

• whole wheat pretzels
• junior mints
• chewy granola bars
• baked lays
• shot blocks by cliff
• gatorade
• plenty of water

Those are my favorites so far. I notice a big difference in my stamina when I eat what I am supposed to. Other things I plan on trying are homemade sports drink made from herbs and also things like skittles, hard candy, and jelly beans.

Fueling Up For Hiking

I have been having trouble with stamina and fatigue on my hikes. But I figured out a way to help change that. I learned that you need 60g of simple carbohydrates as well as adequate salt and fluids. So, I make sure I eat throughout a hike. In just three hikes, I went from taking a long time and feeling almost sick at the end of a strenuous hike to beating the published book time by 35 minutes. That goes to show you that nutrition is VERY important.

Appreciative Coaching - Capella University

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A Capella University faculty member has co-authored a book on Appreciative Coaching. For a while now, Capella University has proven to be a great option when it comes to adult education and continuing education. It is a great thing knowing that the people who are devoted to teaching you are well accomplished as well. The book is basically written for managers and other people who can change the way things are going in a particular organization. When an instructor of a university takes the time to write something devoted to helping make the world better, that shows that the school is also devoted to the same things. No matter what you study there you are sure to get a good education.

Favorite Herbal Hair Rinses

I realized that I love hair rinses. I usually just brew a strong tea, about four cups worth. Here are the herbs I use:

• Stinging Nettle - makes hair shiny
• Parsley - good for dandruff
• Rosemary - stimulates the scalp and enhances dark hair
• Chamomile - enhances light hair, mix with fresh lemon juice

I just choose one of those and I never mix them. Sometimes I will put a splash of vinegar.

Herbs for Pain - New Squidoo Lens

I decided to create a series of Squidoo lenses devoted to topics of health and herbal medicine. My first is "Herbs for Pain". This is a topic that I always seem to need information on, either for myself or for friends and family.

Right now, I have a sore wrist and sore neck. I am about to take some of my own advice!

Weight Loss and Listening to Your Hunger Signals

I think it is important to pay attention to your cravings and to listen to your hungry cravings. When I was really in touch with this, I was thin. I don't think that is an accident.

Here are my cravings of the week:

• lemons
• cabbage salad Greek style - with lemons!
• tomato soup
• corn - corn on the cob, popcorn, grits
• dark, dark chocolate

So for dinner, I am eating all of that. With maybe a dark chocolate square and some tea for dessert.

Taking a Vacation to Hawaii

This is a sponsored post.

When it comes to healthy vacations, finding a Hawaiian Vacation Package that is right for you is definitely worth your while. This is because there are so many active things to do in Hawaii that it is easy to be healthy. You can eat fresh island foods, hike and explore the culture, and spend some time being active on the beach.

And what's even better is that there are now some Ecotourism options where the vacation will not harm the environment. If you want a Hawaiian Vacation Package that will give you all these things, then it has gotten even easier. EcoTourism is a type of tourism that helps create a sustainable environment and also benefits the local communities. If you keep this in mind while looking for your Hawaiian Vacation Package you will have a much richer experience on your trip.

Eating Right While on Vacation

I am on vacation right now. I am also trying to lose weight through Weight Watchers. I signed up for the online program. So far, I've three pounds which means that I have lost 1 pound a week.

Weight Watchers has two programs - Flex and Core. Flex is where you count the points. Core is where you learn how to eat healthfully. I started off on Flex and have decided to follow Core while away. Core is better because you eat from a group of foods and stop eating when you are full. Much less to think about while on vacation.

I've learned that part of developing a healthy relationship about food is to learn not to THINK about food too much. That means if I decide to have a cocktail, I drink it, enjoy it, and move on. Core works very well with this mentality. It teaches you how not to diet, but to develop thin habits that will end yo-yo diet and any struggles with weight.

Current Weight: 142
Pounds Lost: 3
Goal: 115

The Dentist is Stressful but Important

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When I lived in Germany, I visited an Army dentist. There was something about the experience that stressed me out and I didn't go to the dentist for almost three years. Thankfully, I've gotten over it. I found a great dentist. The thought of drills, pain, and losing some teeth, not to mention the cruel sound of the drill, is enough to make anyone cringe. That is why it is important to find a dentist you feel comfortable with. If you live in Alexandria, VA area, you may want to try charles brown dds pc because he has an impeccable record with the Virginia Board of Dentistry. He has never had a complaint against him. That is a great thing because that is part of the stress associated with dentists. There's always that "what if" factor. What if they screw up my filling and I need a root canal? What if they use older techniques and I am in pain? With a dentist like Charles Brown, you don't need to worry about that.

Listening to Music is Good for the Soul

I have a new addiction - Rhapsody.com. This is a service that allows you to listen and download music. Doesn't sound like much but there are several addicting features to the site. First, I have expanded my musical interests and found new artists to enjoy such as Tarkan, Anberlin, Paolo Nutini, My Chemical Romance, The Used, and The Cribs. You can read reviews, view their staff suggestions, learn about new releases, and in general spend hours trying to take it all in and listen to music.

I think it is good to expand your musical tastes beyond what is on the radio. The radio gets old and boring quickly. I have never been one to follow the pack. But that's the beauty of rhapsody. If I do want to follow the pack I can listen to the latest by Justin Timberlake or Rihanna or the Pussycat Dolls. But it is MY choice, not some DJ's. I am my own DJ with this service. I love it!

Building Strong Nails with Silica

I have a problem with weak, brittle nails. When I was researching one day, I learned that lack of silica in the diet could cause this. Oatstraw and horsetail both contain silica. So, when I brew up my overnight infusion of nettle or oatstraw I always add a pinch of horsetail. After about a month of consistently drinking this blend, I noticed that my nails have been a lot stronger. I've slacked off on this routine and now my nails are getting brittle again. So, I really do think that lack of silica was responsible for my problems.

Finding Investments in an Eco Conscious World

This is a sponsored post.

When I set out to invest my money, I know that I like to find things that support the earth in an eco friendly way. That is why I like to know what kinds of things are in the funds I buy. For example, I would not want to have a mutual fund that featured stocks from Procter and Gamble because they test on animals.

One great way to invest is to purchase gold bullion from Monex enterprises. They've been helping people invest in gold and precious metals for a while so you know that they know what they are doing. Gold is one of those timeless investments. It has been highly valued and prized since ancient times. The next "big" company could collapse at any minute. Gold, however, will always be in style.

Chamomile Body Oil

I made this body oil recently. I accidentally put twice as much chamomile essential oil as I intended. The end result is that I got something that was a lot more decadent and smells a lot nicer than I intended! I use this for a facial moisturizer and a body oil. I also use it to remove makeup.

Chamomile Body Oil

1/2 cup cold pressed olive oil (the good stuff!)

20 drops chamomile essential oil

Mix the two together and store in a glass bottle in a cool place. I go through mine so quickly, however, I have mine by the sink in an uncovered ramakin for easy use. Not the best method of storage, but it will be gone in no time.

Still Have Winter Weight to Lose?

Ever notice that there's nothing quite like fresh fruit in the hot summer days? Well, take advantage of that. Eating tons of fruits and vegetables is a great way to lose that extra winter weight. Here are my favorites for right now:

• Peaches
• Strawberries
• Chickweed (wild green growing by my outdoor faucet)
• Asparagas

The Asparagas are in season right now where I live in Massachusetts and the strawberries will be following shortly. And the chickweed patch is looking great - though I can scrounge for chickweed even in winter.

Vacations are Relaxing and Good for the Soul

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White Tea - My After Dinner Tradition

I love white tea. It is made from the same plant as black tea and green tea so it has a similar antioxidant count. The best white tea will be delicate in flavor. If it is a little bitter it means that the tannins are too high and that it isn't as high quality. But lately, I seem to be craving it. It is my new tradition for after meals. In fact, today I think I may add angostura bitters to my after-meal tradition.

Greek Style Steamed or Boiled Greens

In the Greek culture, "horta" is the word that refers to steamed or boiled greens. Usually, this indicates that the greens are wild. In Greece that usually means Lamb's Quarters, amaranth, and other greens such as dandelion. In the United States, any number of greens can be used including spinach, escarole, mustard greens, and kale. All you do is steam or boil as usual and season with the juice of 1/2 - 1 lemon, a touch of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. I am eating steamed kale prepared that way right now and it is delicious!

Changing Your Business, Changing Your Life

When it comes to making the world a better place, people often do not realize how important their every day actions are. Individuals and businesses can both make a huge different. One person may influence another, and that person may influence two people... Now there are four people who are influenced in making this world a better place. Another option is for business and for business owners to get an MBA. Capella University has a great program for people to further their business education. The more business owners know, the easier it will be to change the world for the better. And we know that the staff is dedicated to this concept - a Staff member just penned a publication called Appreciative Coaching: A Positive Process for Change.

This blog post was based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com.

Nourishing Herbal Infusions

After a long hiatus (too long) I am now back in what I call "herbal mode". This means that I drink nourishing herbal infusions by the gallon, trek outside to learn about the wild plants, and in general work on building my health.

Right now, the herb I am obsessed with learning about is stinging nettle. It has long been my favorite, I've just been neglecting it for quite some time. I guess I just didn't want it.

In case you are curious, nourishing herbal infusions are prepared as follows:

Measure one ounce of dried herb into a one quart mason jar. Cover with boiling water and cover. Let stand for 4-8 hours and then refrigerate.

Herbs for nourishing infusions:

Only certain herbs are suitable for infusions. Here's a list:

• lemon balm
• stinging nettle
• red clover (mixed with a pinch of mint)
• alfalfa
• mullein (with a pinch of mint)
• chickweed

You need to use the dried herb in order for it to be effective.

I learned the information about the nourishing herbal infusions from the teachings of Susun Weed.

You can find out more in one of her books Healing Wise (Wise Woman Herbal Series) (Wise Woman Herbal Series)

Taking Long Walks is a Perk of Spring

I remember how much I love taking long walks. And it makes me realize that I have been missing out! It has been SO LONG since I've let myself walk for over an hour. But there is this place that I can walk to called Great Brook State Park that is about a thirty minute walk one way, and I think I may give that a shot today. The road where the park is located is very quaint and should be pleasant on such a gorgeous spring day.

Putting together an investing plan

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Craving Stinging Nettle while Running

I lived in Germany when I first got into running. I followed each run with some stinging nettle infusion on ice. It was strong, green, and yummy. I also didn't get injured and I didn't have knee problems. Stinging nettle is a great sports recovery drink because it contains ingredients that can help heal connective tissue. That is definitely something I need.

Boston Marathon

My husband ran the Boston Marathon and I sat and watched him in Natick, MA. As I was sitting there I had the feeling that I REALLY missed running. I am out of shape for running - I am coming back from several injuries. So, I have started on a very gradual plan to run for 30 minutes straight. My next step after that is to build up a base so I can start training again. This time I am going to do it gradually and not jump in. That's how I got injured.

Going on a diet?

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All natural diet patches are placed on your body and help you lose weight. They do this by using herbs and natural ingredients to stimulate your body's fat burning mechanisms. Natural weight loss patches are a great thing to use. I know that when I set out to lose weight I want to make it as natural and easy as possible. With these patches, you are on your way to having success.

Spring Liver Cleaning

Spring is here for most of us, and "coming" for the rest of us... Here in New England we are supposed to get some snow tomorrow. Anyway, this is the time of year where kickstarting the liver is a good idea. The fattier diet most of us eat in the winter can really slow down or system. Making sure the liver is functioning properly will help with weight loss, energy, and to enhance our overall state of health. Here are some herbs I like to take for the liver. These are my top three favorites:

• milk thistle
• dandelion root
• burdock root

Nourishing Onion Soup Recipe

On a cold day, there is something great about onion soup. It is simple and easy to make. It is reminiscent of Paris, France where the recipe was created. And, what is not to love about the warm melted cheese that goes over the soup? Here is a quick recipe.

Four large white onions, sliced
One carton beef broth
some chicken broth added at the end to thin out the soup if needed
salt and pepper
Gruiyere or Cheddar Cheese

Sautee the sliced onions in some olive oil until translucent. Add beef broth, salt and pepper and cook until onions are soft. Ladel into an oven proof bowl and cover with some shredded cheese. Broil until cheese is melted.

Booking Hotels in Orlando

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So, you've decided that you want to go on a trip to Disney World. Do you know where you want to stay? There are a lot of options for Orlando Hotels and it is a good idea to make sure you find the right one. But, there are plenty of hotels right in the park, why not stay in one of them? Well, it is because there is more to Orlando than just Disney World. Yes, that is part of it. But Orlando itself is a great city with a lot of options for entertainment and shopping. Plus, if you want to visit the places where the locals go, visiting Orlando is the way to do it. Unless the locals work in Disney World or are taking vistors there, you won't really find them there.

Getting Back in Balance

Having a balanced life is a good way to make sure that everything is going properly in your life. But what is balance? It can mean different things for different people. For me my sense of balance gets thrown off when I don't like where I am living and if I am not completely happy in my career. But that doesn't mean that when factors are askew that I am unhappy. I am always happy. What can you do to help yourself feel better balanced?

Watching Cooking Shows

If you want to learn how to cook, one great way to do it is to watch cooking shows. You don't need to be precise and follow each of the recipes. You don't even need to take notes. Just watching people prepare food can be a remarkable education. A lot of people learn how to cook by watching their parents and grand parents. But some people don't have that luxury. Watching other people cook whether on tv or at home is an easy way to learn the skills and methods.

Disney Vacation

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Taking a vacation to Disney World can be a great thing for the whole family. There is more to it than just a vacation for kids. There is plenty for adults to do. Great food, great rides, and even a thriving social scene for adults. It makes it desirable for everyone. As if you need any more convincing, it is possible to find Discount Disney Tickets. So not only can you and your family have a great vacation, but you can also have one for less money than if you paid full price. Keep in mind that you don't need to have kids in order to enjoy Disney World. It is for the kid at heart. Or, if you don't want to deal with being a kid, or being childlike, you can be an adult who wants to enjoy the fine dining and social scene and maybe even learn something.

Getting Some Sun

It is important to get some sun each day. Fifteen minutes is the amount you need for your body to manufacturer vitamin D. If you don't get that amount, you could run the risk of being deficient in that vitamin. The best thing to do is to make sure you get at least fifteen minutes of outdoor time each day. What about a fifteen minute walk? This is a good way to help burn some calories and make sure you get enough sunlight.

Healthy Lunches

Eating a healthy lunch is just as important as eating a healthy breakfast. In fact, if you eat a healthy breakfast you are more likely to make better choices throughout the day, including lunch. But if your breakfast was less than ideal, you have the chance to gain some ground when it comes to lunch. Here are some lunch ideas:

• Tuna sandwich with light mayo on a whole wheat roll and a small salad
• Cottage cheese, whole wheat bread, and a small salad
• chicken ceasar salad with low fat dressing

Resort Vacations

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When the winter drags on, it could be time for a vacation. Months like March are usually the worse because one day it is cold, the next it is warm. It can be frustrating with all those false starts. What you need is an all inclusive resort. These are resorts where everything is included and you don't need to worry about anything. Vacations.net is a great resource to plan them because they have a lot of offers and things to choose from. Where do you want to go? Somewhere warm will be nice. Or, you can plan a trip in advance for the summer months. Either way, going on vacation is a lot of fun.

Layering for Hiking

It is pretty cold out, but I know I am going to be warm. With the proper layering scheme you don't need to worry about the weather. The weather is really cold and extremely windy. Here is what I am wearing:

Shirts:

1. Sports bra made of dry weave
2. wicking shirt lined with fleece
3. long underwear shirt, large
4. fleece
5. hard shell windbreaker

Pants:

1. dry weave running pants
2. hard shell.

I will also wear a hat AND a hood and big comfy gloves.

Healthy Breakfast Options

I am about to go hiking, and I am aware of how important breakfast truly is. If I don't eat the right foods this morning, I will not have enough fuel to get through my day. So, here is a list of some healthy breakfast ideas that will help you start your day right. These are my favorites. And if I am about to be active, I will try to eat a little more.

• Bran flakes with raisins and almonds or walnuts
• English muffin with peanut butter and an orange
• cottage cheese, toast, and fruit
• Greek style yogurt, honey, and walnuts mixed together and fruit

Shopping For Baby Gifts

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Are you looking for ways to help other people? Buying gifts for new parents is a great thing to do. A lot of new parents are overwhelmed with the sudden cost and expense of having a child. Why not help them out? There are several places where you can buy baby gifts. One of the best places is Babynest.com. This is because they have a good selection. But, this isn't like any other baby shop. You can purchase unique, personalized gifts that will be more meaningful than anything you could buy at a department store. Department store gifts don't necessarily have that personal touch.

Plan for better eating habits

I try to eat healthfully. But sometimes I feel as if I need to write down exactly what I need to do to be even better at it. Here are some ideas:

• Cut out salt. See previous post.
• No refined sugar.
• Reduce saturated fats
• Drink more water.
• Drink more stinging nettle infusion and more tea.
• Pay attention to fat burning herbs.
• Wildcraft.
• Listen to what my body is saying.

Cutting Out Salt

As mentioned in a previous post, I love olives. Unfortunately, they are filled with salt and it is nearly impossible to find salt free olives. In fact, I've never seen it. On my quest to help live a healthier life, I will cut out extra salt. I feel bloated a lot of the time. This could have something to do with excess sodium. Hey, we know what we have to do for our health, right? It is just a matter of applying it.

Working at Home is Good for the Family

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Working at home is good for the family. If you have kids, it allows you to be there for your children. A more flexible schedule means that you are better able to handle their schedules. If you do not have kids but have a partner, you are able to travel with your partner without worrying about taking time off work. Being your own boss is great. If you are a freelance professional, that is one very good job to have if you work at home. Freelance writers, programmers, and other freelancers use sites such as Elance. Also known as bidding sites, these websites are focused on connecting freelancers with new clients. The goal of the site is to help clients and freelancers find each other while also protecting them from not getting paid, etc.

Cooking With Olives

Olives are filled with healthy fats and are therefore great to cook with. I have been known to eat jars or tubs filled with olives in one sitting. They are salty and filled with flavor. I've always been a sucker for salty foods.

Here are some ways to cook with olives:

• instead of adding salt to your omelette why not add olives?
• Chopped olives work quite well in tomato soup with basil
• great as a garnish for salads
• chop some olives along with tomato to put on a bruschetta
• they taste really good on pasta

Vacations Are Good For the Soul

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Whether you are looking to relocate or are searching for a vacation home, Orlando is a good place to consider. It has something for everyone. There are things to do, a great economy, and plenty of jobs so the economy is good. That is what makes real estate in Orlando so valuable. If you are considering purchasing property in Orlando you will need an Orlando Real Estate Agent. The great thing about Orlando is that it is a desirable place to live or vacation for several reasons and the property is less expensive than a lot of other desirable places in the U.S. Compare prices for seacoast communities, for example, and you will be paying A LOT more. Orlando is just as desirable in a lot of ways.

The Importance of Strength Training

Strength training is an important part of any exercise routine. It is important to lift at least a moderate amount of weight 2-3 times per week. Those who want to build a lot of lean muscle should focus on their workouts and train differently than those who just want to enhance their health.

One thing to make sure of is that you continue to challenge yourself. This is a good rule of thumb regardless of what your goal is.

Great Sources of Antioxidants

You don't need to only take your vitamins to get a good dose of antioxidants. They are located in foods, herbs, and spices. And one thing that supplements lack is that there are plenty of other substances in foods that are not necessarily in multivitamin and mineral tablets, such as quercetin. Here is a list of great sources of antioxidants:

• chocolate
• wine
• grape juice
• fruits and vegetables
• herbs such as rosemary, basil, and oregano
• green tea

Finding Deals Online

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Would you like to find great deals online? What do you want to buy? How about digital cameras? Ebates.com is a site that helps people find great deals and save money. They basically help you get some of your money back when you make purchases online. Cash back is a great thing, in my opinion. Why settle for paying full price when there are plenty of programs that will award you and help you save and earn money? Ebates is one of these services. All you need to do to get started is use your email address to sign up for a free membership. Once you are signed up, you can use the site to get access to their 800 different stores. So whether you want to buy cameras or anything else, there is something for you in their vast listings.

Give yourself a makeover?

Change is a good thing, especially when it comes to your appearance. New clothes, new shoes, a new hair cut, a new makeup look - they can do wonders to help improve your self esteem and just make you feel good.

And, you don't need to be a girl in order to fully appreciate it. A new look could benefit everyone.

As a girl, and one who loves to primp, I sat down and thought, hmmm, I've had the same haircut for a few years now and I want to spice things up a bit. So, I went to my trusty old hole-in-the wall salon and emerged with newly waxed brows and a sassy short haircut. It feels great!

What changes would you like to make? If you had the chance to give yourself a makeover, what would you do?

Self Change Time

Yes, it is that time of year again... Self Challenge time! :) www.self.com

This year, I am using the challenge to help increase my level of fitness. Last year, I got injured around this time of year. This year, I am taking it slower and focusing on making one step at a time.

Fitness is a lifestyle, and so is eating healthfully. So, I am not looking at what I am doing as a diet. I am considering it a way to help me maintain a sense of equillibrium and balance.

Silver Investing

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When it comes to investing, investing in silver is a good idea. Right now, the silver price is really good for investors so it is a great time to invest. When it comes to investing, I personally like to find things that are a great choice. Investing in any of the precious metals, such as silver, is timeless. When it comes to investing in silver, you have two choices. You can either invest in silver coins or ingot form. An ingot is when they take the silver and cast it in easy to store shapes. But when you invest in silver and other metals such as gold, it is a good idea to work with a company that you trust, like Monex. You need to make sure there is a secure way to deliver it to you and Monex is a trusted source.

Fending off a cold

My husband said that there is something going around in his office and he feels lightheaded. So, I am going to use my herbal expertise to help him fend off a cold. What I like to do in these circumstances is drink lots of green tea with lemon, honey, and a dash of cinnamon. I am also going to have him eat at least one more orange this evening. He is clearing his throat a lot, too so I may give him some peppermint tea to help relieve the congestion.

Bitter Spring Greens - Great for Digestion and Weight Loss

One thing I look forward to in the spring is when the greens start pushing up from the ground. Early spring greens such as chicory and dandelion are slightly bitter and extremely tasty. They are great for the liver and the overall digestion. When the liver is working properly it can help inspire weight loss. I aslo likle chickweed. It isn't bitter but a lot of people like to use it to help support weight loss.

Self Defense

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When it comes to protecting yourself, your home, and your family, most of us don't think about how to do that. Some people have guns. Others take martial arts. But most seem to forget about it... until there is a crisis. In order for self defense to work, you need to prepare in advance. Do you not want to take martial arts or own a gun? A stun gun is a good option because it makes the attacker defenseless. It is definitely something to consider because you don't need to learn any special skills. You just need to learn how to use the gun itself. And when it comes to self defense, you don't want to do anything too complicated because you might forget all your training.

Spring Cleaning for the Body

Spring is a time to clean. Yes, it is important to clean and scrub our homes. But, that process is important for the body, too. Some people call it detoxing, but I don't like to think of it that way. Detox gives the impression that the body is dirty, and it isn't.

But in the spring, it does need a kick-start... mainly to burn off unwanted fat that may have accumulated during the winter months. I'll talk more on this in future posts.

Spring Foods - Spring is Here

March is a strange month. One minute, it feels as if Spring is coming. Another, it is freezing... with a wind chill. Still, even with the cold, March is a hopeful month. It is almost time to start planting. Those of us who start our own seeds have already begun.

And, this is the time when strawberries and asparagus are at their best. This year, I am hoping to branch out from the typical pasta dishes and omelettes. Asparagus cream soup is something I've never done but I love it when I have it. So, that is on my list.

Healthy Mexican Food

Mexican food doesn't need to be filled with cheese and fat. In fact, traditional Mexican food is not like that at all. That is our Americanized perception.

Here is some information:

http://www.differentworld.com/mexico/common/pages/food.htm

I am going to a Mexican potluck, and I am trying to find a food to bring that my husband will eat. In the end, I think I am just going to bring salsa and chips.

Progress Update: Body for Life

Well, I have two more workouts to go for this week- one cardio, and one lower body and abs. I don't see any reason why I can't do both of them today.

At first, I was just doing the challenge on my own. But, part of me is thinking that doing the original challenge will be a lot of fun.

http://www.bodyforlife.com/

You can find information on it at the website.

Save Money Online Shopping

This is a sponsored post.

What do you do when you want to shop online? Chances are you search for what you need, find the website, and then make the purchase. However, online shopping can also be about saving money... and making it. I just learned of this site called Ebates.com. This is a site where you can earn cash back on purchases you make online, such as target. They offer a free membership and there are around 800 online stores to choose from. When it comes to shopping, getting opportunities to earn money or get money back for my purchases is always a good thing. I've recently begun this program to be more conscious of my spending and save money. Ebates.com is a site that can help me do that. There are some websites out there who try to give you cash back but as far as I can tell, this is one of the best.

Keeping an organized home

When things get busy, one of the first things that gets neglected is my sense of household organization. I am a work at home writer. When I have a deadline, the last thing I want to worry about is the laundry or the dishes. But thanks to the flylady, she helps me get things under control... somewhat.

www.flylady.net

What I love is that she encourages us to take things one step at a time and don't beat myself up if I neglect something.

Finally... snow

All those talks in Paris this week about Global Warming have been quite enlightening. Of course, most of us have figured out that something is really not right with the climate. Polar bears are drowning, the ice in the arctic is melting, we've hardly gotten any snow here in New England and we've actually seen near 70 degree days, and there are climate related catastrophes all over the place. But who's to say how much of it is normal and how much is man made? Well anyway, it finally snowed more than an inch. My bet is that it will be melted by the end of the week.

Recruiting Field

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When it comes to the recruiting, maintaining high quality standards and a good series of protocols is essential. Basically, a recruiter is someone who is hired by a company to go out there and fill positions. It is a third party who goes through the effort of looking for qualified candidates so the employer doesn't have to. But, there are risks involved. That is why risk management is so important. When you can find a way to manage the situation, you will have a greater liklihood of finding the right people for the job. And this goes for any career field.

More Exercise = Cravings for Protein

Well, as I exercise more, I feel my nutritional needs shifting. My muscles need protein to feed them and make them stronger. For a while, I had no interest in protein rich foods. Perhaps it was because I wasn't hitting the weights as hard? The key is to get a nice balance between healthy carbs and protein and honor my food cravings.

Antioxidant Multivitamins for Greater Health

I was thinking about antioxidants and how important they are for your health. Free radicals can really be a problem. These unstable cells can grow and proliferate and cause all kinds of health problems.

Of course, it is ideal to make sure you get enough in your diet. But your diet should be supplemented with antioxidant multivitamins. Just find a formula that suits your lifestyle and needs.

Do You Have a Health Business?

This is a sponsored post.

If you have a health related business chances are you want to make money. Companies such as Acorn Systems have IT chargeback software that will help you in your quest to improve your profits. As with any business, your main goal is to get clients and customers and have them use your products or service. Well, even if you are doing pretty well, chances are there could be some room for improvement. To help you achieve success they use a consulting method. Consultants are trained at helping people and business achieve their fullest potential. So whether or not you have an herbal business or have a health care business of some kind, Acorn Systems can help.

Winter Dry Skin Solutions

I have dry skin. Winter is here with a vengence and the temperature is cold and the air is dry. This is a recipe for disaster for skin, especially on my face and with my cuticles. Here are some things I will do:

• drink plenty of water
• apply cuticle oil
• purchase a moisturizer that is thicker than my summer moisturizer
• apply lotion on face, neck, and hands before going outside

Warm Up for a Good Workout

Warming up is essential for a good workout. Without a good warmup, you are setting yourself up for injury. Unfortunately, people who are fond of the weight room often neglect to warm up. One thing that I really like to do before hitting the weights, especially for the upper body, is to go on the rower. The rower works the muscles in your whole body including the upper body, unlike the bike and other equipment which only works the legs.

Finding a Good Lawyer

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Finding a good lawyer is important. Whether you need somemone to help you with a situation with environmental law or something else, simmons jannace & stagg is a law firm that is dedicated to help you win your case. They practice in New York, Conneticut, and New Jersey so if you live in other parts of the country you won't be able to hire them. But they have received a high peer rating and the criteria was based on both ability and ethics. Sometimes it can be a challenge finding a lawyer that is both good at what they do, and completely ethical. They have a lot of high profile clients too so you know you are in good hands if you decide to go with them. Staples, Coca Cola, Best Buy, K-Mart, and General Motors are only some of them. So if you need a good lawyer, check then out.

A Great Forum

I love visiting the forum at www.susunweed.com. I am an herbalist and I sincerely believe in the herbal teachings of the "wise woman way". I don't get into the spiritual aspect of things that people touch on, but I find that the principals with the plants themselves are very good. In general, I try to use one plant a time and nourish my body with the right foods and herbs. These are two important concepts on the wise woman tradition. It is very intuitive.

Today's Upper Body Workout

I am on a quest to build muscle tone and strength. I feel that this will help boost my metabolism and help me lose weight. Even more importantly, it will make me feel better, healthier, and more energetic.

Today I worked the upper body for about an hour. I choose two exercises per muscle group (back, chest, shoulders, biceps, triceps) and do three sets each. I also stretch in between each exercise instead of just sit around while I am resing. So far, I am pleased with the results because I feel like I am getting stronger.

Vacations Are Good For You

This is a sponsored post.

Going on vacation is good for your well being. We live in a society that values work. As a result, we work hard. Often we work much harder than we need to. But work is stressful and this is bad for your health. Taking a vacation at an all inclusive resort is a good idea and can help relieve stress. When everything is located right at the place you are staying, planning the trip is a breeze. All you need to do is get to your destination and enjoy yourself. Vacations.net has recently changed things around to make it an even better resource for booking your trip. This is a one stop shop and can make your life a lot easier.

A List of High Protein Foods

Getting enough protein is my biggest challenge. Here is a list of foods that are high in protein and a good source of essential nutrients. As a side note, whenever I can I purchase organic, grain fed, and hormone free meats because it is better for you.

• Fish and seafood
• chicken and turkey
• lean beef and other meats
• lean pork
• cottage cheese
• low fat dairy products
• soy products

My New Eating Plan

As you guys probably know, I have been following Body for Life for Women this past week. I am almost finished with the workouts- I just need to do one more upper body workout and one new cardio workout.

Today was the first day that I followed the nutrition plan. I feel good! Here is the plan:

Protein- 5 servings

Carbs- 5 servings

Fruits and Veg- at least 5 servings

Fats- 2 servings

My biggest challenge was eating less carbs and more protein. But perhaps that is the biggest link as to why I am injury prone and not building muscle quickly enough.

Flowers are Good For You

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Our indoor environments often lack the gentle and serene touch that live plant matter can give. Fresh flowers make us happy, no matter what they are for or who gave them to us. On the one hand, flowers make a great gift and can show a person that you love them. On the other, buying flowers for ourselves is also nice. Either way, choosing the best flowers for the purpose is a good idea. BeyondBlossoms.com is a great place to purchase flowers because they are committed to providing the best and freshest flowers at the best prices. They have all kinds of choices and with Valentine's Day just around the corner it is never too early to place an order for The Big Day. So whether you need the flowers for an event or just to beautify your home, BeyondBlossoms is a great place to go.

Finding Your Weight Loss Motivators

In order for weight loss to be successful, you need to do more than just decide that you want to lose pounds to benefit your appearance. In order to make your weight loss truly successful, you need to find the ultimate thing that will motivate you to make wise decisions. These could be external, but they could also be internal. Here are some examples:

• for your health
• family
• to look good
• to be a role model

What are your motivators?

Setting Weight Loss Goals

When it comes to weight loss, it is a good idea to set goals. Goals can give you motivation and support. Weight loss goals will keep you focused and challenged in order to work. But you will find as you go through your weight loss plan that you need to have more than just a goal for the number of pounds. Setting a tangible goal such as fitting into an old pair of jeans or looking good for a special event are great motivators.

Conscious Investing

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When it comes to investing, it is a good idea to make sure that you know what you are getting yourself into. For someone who is earth conscious such as myself, I like to make sure that the investments I am getting myself into do not oppose with my values. For this reason, I find that investing in coins and precious metals is a good bet. To invest in coins you will need to find a coin dealer. Monex is an expert at dealing with coins and metals and they have the process down to a science. The reason why I like investments like that is because these things never go out of style- not like the "latest" in stock tips, etc which have been known to fail. So I get a double bonus. Investing that I believe in and investments that tend to do well.

My Exercise Plan for the Week

Each week, I seem to change my exercise plan. I've learned that I can't follow a strict "do these exercises every other day for six weeks" kind of plan because I like to change things around. But what I have learned is that I can designate certain days of the week to do certain activities or work certain muscle groups, and then decide what my plan will be from day to day.

Here is my current exercise plan:

Monday: Cardio
Tuesday: Upper body
Wednesday: Cardio
Thursday: Lower body/ abs
Friday: Cardio
Saturday: Upper body
Sunday: Rest

It is important to schedule in a rest day so your muscles can heal.

Body for Life for Women

Have you heard of Body for Life? In the face of a wide range of fads, body for life is a book that features a plan for diet and exercise that has nothing to do with going on a diet and everything to do with living a healthy life. Rules such as "no carbs" or "no fat" are nonexistent here. People who follow the plan are encouraged to eat a healthy, well balanced diet.

Well, I am currently reading the Body for Life for Women book because I know that I am not as healthy as I can be. I didn't want to follow the advice of someone who was trying to convince me to give up a major nutrient such as carbohydrates. I'm smarter than that. I am thrilled to have found this book and excited to follow the program. I am currently on Day 3 from Week 1 and things have been going well so far.

Self Confidence No Matter What

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It is important to have self confidence no matter what. Are you a few pounds overweight? Well that is no excuse to let your appearance go. The French have a special word (I forget what it is) for a "plus size" woman who is sexy and attractive. Extra weight does not mean that you need to dress like you are unhappy with yourselves. If you dress nice and make an effort in your appearance and project self confidence no matter what, you will be more likely to live the life you want.
KarensPlus.com is an online shop that is designed to help you shop for your clothes even if you are in a rush. Find deals and fashions for different styles even if you are on a budget.

Learning About Herbal Medicine Resources

I like to visit my favorite sites every now and then to learn more about herbal medicine. Here are some herbal medicne websites where you can learn about herbs and their medicinal uses.

http://www.susunweed.com/

http://www.botanical.com/

http://www.herbs2000.com/

Bladder Inflections

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Having a bladder infection is not fun. It hurts! But, I've always believed that true healing comes from taking a holistic approach. I don't like to take antibiotics unless it is really necessary. The last urinary tract infection I had I managed to fix it through a program of drinking plenty of liquids (water and cranberry juice) and also taking a lot of vitamin C and herbs such as echinacea. All of those things contain ingredients that helped heal it. Even though my regimen worked and I did not need antibiotics, I still had to take a lot of capsules and remember to drink a lot of water. It was worth it because I got healed, but it was also a pain.

I started to think, maybe there is a better way? If I could find something that could help heal bladder infections without antibiotics and without the hassle of going to the doctor but that isn't complicated, I would be very happy. I think I may have found what I was looking for in d mannose. D-mannose is a glyconutrient that can help a lot in these situations. Another thing that can help is to eat yogurt and buttermilk to help bring the good bacteria in your body back in balance. D-mannose helps maintain the health of the bladder and kidneys. So if you are prone to infection, it can prevent them. It can also help heal them. However, if you try it and you still get sick, and the infection just keeps getting worse, it is time to see a doctor.

Yerba Mate Tea

I just drank a cup of Yerba Mate tea. I used to drink it all the time, but I pretty much forgot about it until I found it in a tea blend I bought today. Here are some of the benefits of Yerba Mate:

• good for the mind
• stimulating (contains a caffeine like substance that doesn't have the side effects caffeine does)
• enhances concentration
• mood uplifter
• thermogenic and fat burning
• been shown to bring more oxygen to the blood and heart
• digestive problems
• stamina

Eating Your Fruits and Vegetables

Sponsored

It can be a challenge to eat enough fruits and vegetables. We all know that they are good for us and that they provide healthy nutrients that our bodies require. But it is often impractical to expect to eat tons of fresh produce each day. Fruit Advantage is a product that helps people get the fruit they need without the hassle.

There are a lot of different products that can help supply fruits and vegetables in an easy to take form located at http://www.fruitadvantage.com . And some of these products serve a specific purpose in addition to helping you "eat" your fruits and vegetables. The Fruit Advantage Cherry Prime product is one that helps the joints. Cherry has natural ingredients that helps the joints and it also contains glucosomine and chondroiton which are also good for the joints.

All of the products at Fruit Advantage are helpful in different ways. There is a formula that helps with Brain Support, one that helps your heart, and another that helps keep your joints healthy. All of these serve the purpose of helping you benefit from fruits and vegetables in your healthy lifestyle.

Food Combining - Fruit Breakfast

I have been food combining for the past two days. Or rather, I am starting to food combine. The first thing I have been focusing on is having a fruit breakfast. The rest of my food combining is not in place yet but the fruit breakfast is becomming routine.

The result? Too soon to tell so far. But I plan on at least loosely sticking with it so I can get healthier.

Dry Skin in Winter

Winter is a bad time of year for your skin and your throat. The cold, dry air strips your skin of any moisture. It can also cause sore throats. I hate it when that happens. I can tell when it is going to be a very cold day because my throat will get sore. Then, I'll be concerned that I am getting sick. Turns out, I am not sick. My throat is just dry. The solution is to buy a humidifier for your home. This puts the moisture back in. I found a great site that gives you a guide to buying a humidifier for your home. It contains really helpful information about buying a humdifier. I've used humdifiers and I know how helpful they are. There is nothing more soothing than having great skin. So visit HumidifierInformation.com for more information.

Stinging Nettle Infusion While Hiking

Last winter we went on a hike at the Welch and Dickey Trail in the mountains in New Hampshire. It was strenuous because I am a bit out of shape. During the hike, I got the most intenst craving for stinging nettle infusion.

I was thinking about it and I always seem to want some while exercising. And I have noticed that when I drink it, my recovery times are a lot better. So next time I hike I will bring some infusion. I may not drink it during the hike because it is a diuretic. But a nice big gulp after will sure feel good!

Shopping Online

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When it comes to online shopping, having a coupon is a good thing. Finding deals is a good feeling, especially when you know there are no other places around that offer such good deals. With CouponChief.com all you need to do is enter the promo codes. WhenI shop, I like to stick to my favorite stores. Target is one of them. CouponChief has a good coupon on their site for 10% off until January 31. Check them out!