Today is the last day of 2013, and the concept of New Year's Resolutions is all over TV, radio, magazines, newspapers, etc. If you are planning to make a resolution or two, in order to maximize your chances of actually keeping them:
1. Make sure your resolutions are realistic and specific. For example, instead of "get more exercise," which is somewhat vague, you might resolve to "walk at least three times a week."
2. Write down your resolutions. Studies show we are more likely to carry through with things we write down.
3. Share your resolutions with someone who will help keep you accountable.
If you want to make some positive changes for 2014 but don't know what your resolutions actually are, here are some ideas...
For Dog Lovers
Resolve to...
1. attend a canine CPR/First Aid Class sometime before the end of 2014
2. take your dog for regular walks. Twice a day for at least 30 minutes each time is a good rule of thumb for an average, healthy adult dog. For more ideas, click here.
3. make your own wholesome treats at home. Ingredients could include pumpkin, green beans, broccoli stems, blueberries, chicken broth, beef broth, plain yogurt, etc. Be sure to check with your vet regarding what foods are safe to feed to your dog(s) before concocting your own treats.
4. take your dog on weekly adventures. Think dog parks, nature walks, Petco/Petsmart, etc.
5. go Cruelty-Free
6. enroll in a training class sometime before the end of 2014. Even if you and your dog have already completed a basic obedience class, consider enrolling in a Canine Good Citizen course, an agility class, etc. There are some pretty insane dog sports out there now--chances are, you will be able to find something you and your dog will love.
For Weight Loss
Resolve to...
1. eat more fiber and less fat. Think fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Try simple substitutions, such as eating whole grain, baked crackers instead of chips; vegetables and hummus instead of chips and dip; or frozen yogurt instead of ice cream.
2. take at least 10,000 steps a day. The average American takes only 5,000 steps a day, but the recommendation for minimum steps a day is double that number.
3. aim for at least 30 minutes of activity per day
4. eat less added sugars. Sugars that naturally occur in certain foods, such as fruit, are fine, but try to limit your intake of added sugar.
5. watch less TV, or 'actively' watch by doing crunches/lunges/squats during commercial breaks; walking up and down the steps between shows; and getting up to change the channel or adjust the volume, as opposed to using the remote.
6. to participate in at least one organized fitness activity during 2014, such as group exercise classes or a 5k run/walk.
For Giving Back
Resolve to...
1. pick one (or more) charity that represents a cause important to you and make a monthly donation
2. volunteer at least once before the end of 2014. Local animal shelters and YMCAs are always in need of volunteers.
3. smile at people in the grocery store, at the mall, at the bank--wherever you go.
For Friends and Family
Resolve to...
1. call at least one long-distance friend or family member every month. Even if you just leave a voice mail, someone will know you thought of him or her.
2. tell your family members you love them every time you see them
3. write and send Christmas letters. For ideas, click here.
For Spirituality
Resolve to...
1. acknowledge your blessings. Sometimes, it seems easier to focus on the negatives or on what we think we lack, but you are likely to find that life is actually easier and more enjoyable if instead you focus on what you do have.
2. feel grateful. When you wake up in the morning, before you even get out of bed, try to list at least three good things about the dawning day. When you go to bed at night, try to list at least three good things that happened during the day.
3. go to church.
I am sure I could sit here all day and night thinking of more ways for you to make yourself an even better you, but I think you get the idea. You might be asking yourself what my own resolutions are, now that I've told you all the things you need to change. ;-) Well, I do have one resolution, and though it goes against my advice of being specific, I do not think it contrary to my advice of being realistic. My resolution for 2014 is simply to be more thoughtful--to think a little less often of me, and a little more often of everyone else, and to act on this.
Happy New Year, may all your resolutions come true!
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Monday, December 30, 2013
Cruelty-Free
As a pet owner (everything from fish to cats to dogs to horses), animal lover, canine agility class participant, and volunteer at a local animal shelter, an issue with which I often find myself concerned is animal testing. While debating its value in the medical field poses some challenges, the use of animals in the field of cosmetics is, in my opinion, completely unnecessary, especially in this day and age, when many of the cosmetic products we use have been around for decades, and no longer need to be tested.
If animal testing is something about which you're concerned, you're probably also concerned about the cost of purchasing cruelty-free products, as it seems there is a stigma that they somehow cost more than products that are tested on animals prior to hitting the market. You might be surprised to learn about effective and high-quality brands that do not test on animals. Listed below are some relatively inexpensive *cruelty-free options.
*Be aware that it is very difficult to know for sure whether a product has ever been tested on animals. The products below name themselves as cruelty-free, and have at one time or another met the approval of PETA. Some of the products listed below may no longer meet PETA's criteria for being cruelty-free. As a consumer, one thing you can do is read packaging carefully. Another is regularly check PETA's website. It is important to remember, however, that some of the criteria used in determining whether a company or product is cruelty-free can at times be misleading. For example, according to Mary Kay, its products made in the United States and Canada are not tested on animals. However, its products sold in China are, due to China's mandate that products be tested on animals (that, of course, is an oversimplification). While some animal advocates believe that should be grounds for Mary Kay to pull out of China, some people feel that by empowering women in the country, the company is actually helping improve human rights, which could eventually lead to an improvement in animal rights. Case in point: Determining whether or not your products truly are cruelty-free is very challenging.
For Hair
1. White Rain
2. V05 (Alberto Culver)
3. Tresemme
For Body and Makeup
1. Mary Kay
2. Burt's Bees
**Keep in mind, though, that a product label stating a certain product is cruelty-free or not tested on animals does not necessarily mean that ingredients used in the product were not tested on animals. In addition, although a particular product--like Tresemme--may not be tested on animals, the product's parent company may conduct animal testing on other products they sell. However, purchasing products with these or similar labels is a small step in the right direction.
Fast Fitness Tip: Take a walk or go for a bike ride after you eat dinner. Doing a little light exercise after you eat can help kick-start your metabolism throughout the night, as you sleep.
If animal testing is something about which you're concerned, you're probably also concerned about the cost of purchasing cruelty-free products, as it seems there is a stigma that they somehow cost more than products that are tested on animals prior to hitting the market. You might be surprised to learn about effective and high-quality brands that do not test on animals. Listed below are some relatively inexpensive *cruelty-free options.
*Be aware that it is very difficult to know for sure whether a product has ever been tested on animals. The products below name themselves as cruelty-free, and have at one time or another met the approval of PETA. Some of the products listed below may no longer meet PETA's criteria for being cruelty-free. As a consumer, one thing you can do is read packaging carefully. Another is regularly check PETA's website. It is important to remember, however, that some of the criteria used in determining whether a company or product is cruelty-free can at times be misleading. For example, according to Mary Kay, its products made in the United States and Canada are not tested on animals. However, its products sold in China are, due to China's mandate that products be tested on animals (that, of course, is an oversimplification). While some animal advocates believe that should be grounds for Mary Kay to pull out of China, some people feel that by empowering women in the country, the company is actually helping improve human rights, which could eventually lead to an improvement in animal rights. Case in point: Determining whether or not your products truly are cruelty-free is very challenging.
For Hair
1. White Rain
2. V05 (Alberto Culver)
3. Tresemme
For Body and Makeup
1. Mary Kay
2. Burt's Bees
**Keep in mind, though, that a product label stating a certain product is cruelty-free or not tested on animals does not necessarily mean that ingredients used in the product were not tested on animals. In addition, although a particular product--like Tresemme--may not be tested on animals, the product's parent company may conduct animal testing on other products they sell. However, purchasing products with these or similar labels is a small step in the right direction.
Fast Fitness Tip: Take a walk or go for a bike ride after you eat dinner. Doing a little light exercise after you eat can help kick-start your metabolism throughout the night, as you sleep.
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Weight Loss: Watch Out
In perusing my Sunday paper today, I came across a little section called "Tip of the Week." In light, I assume, of the many people who will likely include "lose weight" on their list of resolutions for 2014, this week's tip dealt with weight-loss scams.
In case you yourself have set a weight loss goal, I thought I would share these tips with you, in condensed form (though the original version is a pretty quick read, too). Following the five tips (below) on how to recognize weight loss scams, I have included a few ways you can lose weight the healthy way.
Five Ways to Recognize Possible Weight Loss Scams
Beware of products that...
1. claim to include a "'silver bullet'" ingredient (no explanation of what a "silver bullet" ingredient is was provided, but my interpretation would be that a silver bullet ingredient is one that will fix all your weight loss problems right away with minimal effort on your part)
2. claim to achieve permanent weight loss, or weight loss without paying any heed to your diet or eating habits
3. claim permanent weight loss, or weight loss achieved without adding any exercise to your lifestyle
4. make ingredients-based claims, which are often not scientifically supported (think acai berries, green tea extract, seaweed, etc.)
5. offer money-back guarantees or free samples, which can sometimes actually be tricky ways to trap consumers into regular payments.
Source:
Gellman, Lindsay. "Avoiding Weight-Loss Scams." The Richmond Times Dispatch. 29 December 2013. D3.
Four Tips for Healthy Weight Loss
1. You can help yourself avoid regaining weight lost by losing weight gradually, instead of too rapidly. A reasonable goal is half a pound to one pound per week.
2. The most important aspect of any goal is its "achievability." One way to increase your odds of successful weight loss is to make sure your goal is realistic and specific. To say you want to "lose weight" could mean one pound or 100 pounds--and in how much time? A better goal might be something like, "I want to lose X pounds in the next six months," or "I want to lose one pound per week each week of 2014."
3. If you want to reduce your weight, you should probably also reduce your fat intake. Try replacing fatty snacks like chips and cookies with vegetables, fruits, yogurt, etc. For example, instead of indulging in chips and dip, try carrot sicks or cucumbers and hummus. Instead of eating a few cookies, try a chocolate or cinnamon rice cake. For more ideas on healthier ways to satisfy a sweet tooth, see The Chocolate Craving and The Chocolate Craving: Take Two.
A good rule of thumb for selecting foods that contain less fat is to avoid foods that offer more than three grams of fat per 100-calorie serving.
4. Eating foods that contain high levels of fiber not only benefits your digestion, but also helps you feel full, and thus eat less. Look to add more whole-grain foods (whole grain should be the first ingredient listed) to your diet, as well as more fruits and vegetables.
Source:
The CareWise Guide: Self-Care from Head to Toe. Academia Press: Seattle. 2002.
In case you yourself have set a weight loss goal, I thought I would share these tips with you, in condensed form (though the original version is a pretty quick read, too). Following the five tips (below) on how to recognize weight loss scams, I have included a few ways you can lose weight the healthy way.
Five Ways to Recognize Possible Weight Loss Scams
Beware of products that...
1. claim to include a "'silver bullet'" ingredient (no explanation of what a "silver bullet" ingredient is was provided, but my interpretation would be that a silver bullet ingredient is one that will fix all your weight loss problems right away with minimal effort on your part)
2. claim to achieve permanent weight loss, or weight loss without paying any heed to your diet or eating habits
3. claim permanent weight loss, or weight loss achieved without adding any exercise to your lifestyle
4. make ingredients-based claims, which are often not scientifically supported (think acai berries, green tea extract, seaweed, etc.)
5. offer money-back guarantees or free samples, which can sometimes actually be tricky ways to trap consumers into regular payments.
Source:
Gellman, Lindsay. "Avoiding Weight-Loss Scams." The Richmond Times Dispatch. 29 December 2013. D3.
Four Tips for Healthy Weight Loss
1. You can help yourself avoid regaining weight lost by losing weight gradually, instead of too rapidly. A reasonable goal is half a pound to one pound per week.
2. The most important aspect of any goal is its "achievability." One way to increase your odds of successful weight loss is to make sure your goal is realistic and specific. To say you want to "lose weight" could mean one pound or 100 pounds--and in how much time? A better goal might be something like, "I want to lose X pounds in the next six months," or "I want to lose one pound per week each week of 2014."
3. If you want to reduce your weight, you should probably also reduce your fat intake. Try replacing fatty snacks like chips and cookies with vegetables, fruits, yogurt, etc. For example, instead of indulging in chips and dip, try carrot sicks or cucumbers and hummus. Instead of eating a few cookies, try a chocolate or cinnamon rice cake. For more ideas on healthier ways to satisfy a sweet tooth, see The Chocolate Craving and The Chocolate Craving: Take Two.
A good rule of thumb for selecting foods that contain less fat is to avoid foods that offer more than three grams of fat per 100-calorie serving.
4. Eating foods that contain high levels of fiber not only benefits your digestion, but also helps you feel full, and thus eat less. Look to add more whole-grain foods (whole grain should be the first ingredient listed) to your diet, as well as more fruits and vegetables.
Source:
The CareWise Guide: Self-Care from Head to Toe. Academia Press: Seattle. 2002.
New Year's Resolution: The Christmas Letter
You might be wondering why I chose to write about the Christmas letter after Christmas. Because, my friends, believe it or not, I am convinced that now--while we are on our way to next Christmas--is the best time to begin the letter that will relate your year in review come next December.
Let me start off by saying that I love to get Christmas cards in the mail. The festive greetings always make me feel thought-of and loved. Plus, I love to look at the artwork; read the witty, sentimental, or poetic greeting inside; and see the cards all over my house--on top of the fridge, on the mantle, on top of the entertainment center, on top of the antique ice chest...I may even make a sort of garland out of them next Christmas. Yes, I love getting Christmas cards. But I love getting Christmas letters. The sad part is, very few people send them anymore.
So, my proposal to you is that in 2014, you resolve to write a Christmas letter. There are many fun, creative, and easy ways to do so--and many reasons to do so, as well. Below, I list just a few of them.
Why Write a Christmas Letter?
1. Reflection
Composing a Christmas letter allows you to reflect on your year--everything you have accomplished, hardships you have overcome, goals you have achieved, milestones you have reached, fond memories you have made. This fosters a sort of gratitude and a sense of pride and accomplishment. Generally, we focus on the good in a Christmas letter, so writing one can help us see the good that we may sometimes overlook in our lives.
2. Reference
If you keep one copy of every Christmas letter you write, it is easy to go back and find out what year you got your first dog, what year your best friend got married, what year you bought your first car--maybe even what your third child's first word was, etc. It ends up creating a little history of your family, updated yearly.
3. Memory Lane
It can be really fun to go back and read Christmas letters from years' past and remember the good times you have had with your friends and family. In fact--that would be a fun Christmas tradition. You could gather your family together on Christmas Eve and re-read at least one Christmas letter from the past. It would likely spark other memories you haven't thought of in a while!
4. Keeping in Touch
A Christmas letter can be a great way not only to let people know you are thinking of them at the holidays, but also to let them know of the major goings-on in your life over the last year. With Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and all the other social media we have at our disposal, we can easily take for granted that everyone we know knows everything we have going on. Read a Christmas letter or two. You might be surprised how much you didn't know about a friend or family member's past year.
How To Write a Christmas Letter
1. Chronologically
One way to go about the Christmas letter is to simply go through month by month and include the highlights of each month. Chronological letters are fairly easy to compose, because all you have to do is flip back through your calendar or planner and find the events you deem worthy of inclusion. To make it even easier, start early, in January.. As each month progresses, highlight, underline, or "star" any events you think you may want to include in your Christmas letter. At the end of each month, write a portion of your Christmas letter. This way, come December, your letter is already composed--and you composed it while all the events were still fresh in your mind.
2. Categorically
You can organize your Christmas letter by categories, such as Family, Community, Work, Travel, Fitness, Friends, Education, Goals, Home, etc. To choose your categories, think about the most important elements of your life. In my Christmas letter for 2013, I included three categories: Family, Friends, and Travel; Work and Community; and Fitness.
3. Poetically
This year, I got two Christmas letters formatted as poems. Both were acrostic poems and both rhymed! I was pretty impressed. I am not quite ambitious enough--at least not yet--to attempt this feat, but if you want to get creative and challenge yourself a little, a Christmas letter-poem might be the way to go. Here are some suggestions:
1. Write a Christmas letter using the same rhythm, rhyme scheme, and structure as "The Night Before Christmas," beginning, of course, with the line, "'Twas the night before Christmas..." You can start there, and work your way backwards through the year. (I'm pretty proud of this idea, actually, and might try it...)
2. Write an acrostic poem that highlights the year's milestones. Here are some phrases to get you started:
Christmas
Merry Christmas
Happy Holidays
Seasons Greetings
Ba-Humbug
Jesus Christ
Noel
Feliz Navidad
Happy New Year
Joy
Angels
Bethlehem
Santa Claus
North Pole
Let me start off by saying that I love to get Christmas cards in the mail. The festive greetings always make me feel thought-of and loved. Plus, I love to look at the artwork; read the witty, sentimental, or poetic greeting inside; and see the cards all over my house--on top of the fridge, on the mantle, on top of the entertainment center, on top of the antique ice chest...I may even make a sort of garland out of them next Christmas. Yes, I love getting Christmas cards. But I love getting Christmas letters. The sad part is, very few people send them anymore.
So, my proposal to you is that in 2014, you resolve to write a Christmas letter. There are many fun, creative, and easy ways to do so--and many reasons to do so, as well. Below, I list just a few of them.
Why Write a Christmas Letter?
1. Reflection
Composing a Christmas letter allows you to reflect on your year--everything you have accomplished, hardships you have overcome, goals you have achieved, milestones you have reached, fond memories you have made. This fosters a sort of gratitude and a sense of pride and accomplishment. Generally, we focus on the good in a Christmas letter, so writing one can help us see the good that we may sometimes overlook in our lives.
2. Reference
If you keep one copy of every Christmas letter you write, it is easy to go back and find out what year you got your first dog, what year your best friend got married, what year you bought your first car--maybe even what your third child's first word was, etc. It ends up creating a little history of your family, updated yearly.
3. Memory Lane
It can be really fun to go back and read Christmas letters from years' past and remember the good times you have had with your friends and family. In fact--that would be a fun Christmas tradition. You could gather your family together on Christmas Eve and re-read at least one Christmas letter from the past. It would likely spark other memories you haven't thought of in a while!
4. Keeping in Touch
A Christmas letter can be a great way not only to let people know you are thinking of them at the holidays, but also to let them know of the major goings-on in your life over the last year. With Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and all the other social media we have at our disposal, we can easily take for granted that everyone we know knows everything we have going on. Read a Christmas letter or two. You might be surprised how much you didn't know about a friend or family member's past year.
How To Write a Christmas Letter
1. Chronologically
One way to go about the Christmas letter is to simply go through month by month and include the highlights of each month. Chronological letters are fairly easy to compose, because all you have to do is flip back through your calendar or planner and find the events you deem worthy of inclusion. To make it even easier, start early, in January.. As each month progresses, highlight, underline, or "star" any events you think you may want to include in your Christmas letter. At the end of each month, write a portion of your Christmas letter. This way, come December, your letter is already composed--and you composed it while all the events were still fresh in your mind.
2. Categorically
You can organize your Christmas letter by categories, such as Family, Community, Work, Travel, Fitness, Friends, Education, Goals, Home, etc. To choose your categories, think about the most important elements of your life. In my Christmas letter for 2013, I included three categories: Family, Friends, and Travel; Work and Community; and Fitness.
3. Poetically
This year, I got two Christmas letters formatted as poems. Both were acrostic poems and both rhymed! I was pretty impressed. I am not quite ambitious enough--at least not yet--to attempt this feat, but if you want to get creative and challenge yourself a little, a Christmas letter-poem might be the way to go. Here are some suggestions:
1. Write a Christmas letter using the same rhythm, rhyme scheme, and structure as "The Night Before Christmas," beginning, of course, with the line, "'Twas the night before Christmas..." You can start there, and work your way backwards through the year. (I'm pretty proud of this idea, actually, and might try it...)
2. Write an acrostic poem that highlights the year's milestones. Here are some phrases to get you started:
Christmas
Merry Christmas
Happy Holidays
Seasons Greetings
Ba-Humbug
Jesus Christ
Noel
Feliz Navidad
Happy New Year
Joy
Angels
Bethlehem
Santa Claus
North Pole
Thursday, December 26, 2013
A Year in Review
The end of the year is always a good time for reflection. In the case of my blog, which is still in its infancy (I think?), I decided to go back and find out which of my 57 published posts had gotten the most views since the blog's birth in April of this year. The top five most viewed posts are listed and linked below. If there's one you missed and have some interest in, just click its title and check it out. :-)
Top 5 Most Viewed Posts in 2013
1. Baby Powder and Dry Shampoo: Two of (Wo)man's Greatest (Hair) Inventions
This post was actually the first-ever on Breakneck Beauty. With 35 views, it comes in at first place. The post details ways to streamline your morning routine, style your hair, save money, save water, shorten your shower, and take better care of your hair.
2. Four-Way Tie!
There is actually a four-way tie for second place. The four second place posts, all having been viewed 25 times, are all listed below.
Taking Time for your Special Someone: Date Night
This post discusses the importance of spending quality time with your significant other, and suggests ways to do so.
Beauty Sleep
This post provides ideas on how to fall asleep faster and wake up more easily.
School Days
This post provides six ways to make your get-ready-for-school (or work) routine more efficient and less stressful.
Motivation to Move: A Higher Purpose for Exercising
This inspirational post discusses reasons for working out--reasons that go far beyond looking good in a bathing suit, and extend into your deeper, truer being.
3. Simple, Subtle, Speedy: Daytime Makeup
With step-by-step instructions and photographs, this post offers a twenty-minute routine that includes hair, skin, lips, and eyes. It boasts 23 views.
4. Thanksgiving
With 22 views, this post discusses reasons not to shop on Thanksgiving, and also features a section called "Gratitude on the Go," which offers ways to make sure you are feeling and expressing gratitude on a daily basis.
5. When do you Work Out?: Keeping your Cardio Commitments
This post addresses some of the reasons we use for not working out, and provides ways we can make sure we keep our commitment to regular exercise.
Top 5 Most Viewed Posts in 2013
1. Baby Powder and Dry Shampoo: Two of (Wo)man's Greatest (Hair) Inventions
This post was actually the first-ever on Breakneck Beauty. With 35 views, it comes in at first place. The post details ways to streamline your morning routine, style your hair, save money, save water, shorten your shower, and take better care of your hair.
2. Four-Way Tie!
There is actually a four-way tie for second place. The four second place posts, all having been viewed 25 times, are all listed below.
Taking Time for your Special Someone: Date Night
This post discusses the importance of spending quality time with your significant other, and suggests ways to do so.
Beauty Sleep
This post provides ideas on how to fall asleep faster and wake up more easily.
School Days
This post provides six ways to make your get-ready-for-school (or work) routine more efficient and less stressful.
Motivation to Move: A Higher Purpose for Exercising
This inspirational post discusses reasons for working out--reasons that go far beyond looking good in a bathing suit, and extend into your deeper, truer being.
3. Simple, Subtle, Speedy: Daytime Makeup
With step-by-step instructions and photographs, this post offers a twenty-minute routine that includes hair, skin, lips, and eyes. It boasts 23 views.
4. Thanksgiving
With 22 views, this post discusses reasons not to shop on Thanksgiving, and also features a section called "Gratitude on the Go," which offers ways to make sure you are feeling and expressing gratitude on a daily basis.
5. When do you Work Out?: Keeping your Cardio Commitments
This post addresses some of the reasons we use for not working out, and provides ways we can make sure we keep our commitment to regular exercise.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Winter Workouts: What to Wear When Temperatures Wane
The winter months are upon us, and with the new year on its way, some of you might be thinking about potential new year's resolution(s)--or maybe you're putting off doing so until after Christmas. Either way, one of your resolutions may be to exercise more (that's always a popular one.)
If you're planning to take your workout outdoors, you need to make sure you dress appropriately for the frigid temperatures.
Rule of Thumb
Dress so that you feel slightly chilly when you step outside. If you feel warm before you begin, you will likely feel too hot long before you finish. If you have a hard time motivating yourself to step outside at all when it is cold, dress in layers you can easily remove as you warm up. Generally, you will be warm after about 10-15 minutes of rigorous activity.
Here are a few other pointers:
Ears
Wear a headband or ear muffs to keep your ears warm. *Do not wear a hat or cap. You lose most of your heat through your head, and while keeping it covered may seem desirable when the temperatures dip, if you plan to engage in rigorous exercise--even in the cold--your body needs to be able to release the excess heat it will generate. Otherwise, you risk becoming overheated, despite the freezing temperatures.
*I do wear a hat if I am only walking or hiking, as these are lower-intensity activities and I do not get as warm as fast. If I am running, however, I wear a headband.
*If it is raining hard enough, I recommend wearing a baseball cap or a visor to keep the rain out of your eyes.
Core
Dress in layers. The innermost layer--the one against your skin--should not be cotton, which absorbs moisture and then holds it next to your skin, causing you to feel cool. Instead, choose an innermost layer made of fabric that will wick moisture away, helping draw sweat away from your skin.
Hands
I don't get too technical here. I just wear gloves, the thickness dependent on the temperature outside. One thing I can recommend is to make sure that at intervals, you wiggle your fingers and/or clench and unclench your fists a few times. Keeping your fingers moving now and again can help keep the blood flowing strongly to them, and thus help keep them warm(er).
Dr. Delia Roberts recommends wearing "breathable, water-resistant shells over regular gloves."
You might also like:
Motivation to Move: A Higher Purpose for Exercising
When Do You Work Out?: Keeping Your Cardio Committments
(Attr)active Wear
Sources:
Roberts, Delia. "Heating Up Cold-Weather Workouts." Healthy Living Made Simple.
November/December 2013. Pgs. 28-29.
If you're planning to take your workout outdoors, you need to make sure you dress appropriately for the frigid temperatures.
Rule of Thumb
Dress so that you feel slightly chilly when you step outside. If you feel warm before you begin, you will likely feel too hot long before you finish. If you have a hard time motivating yourself to step outside at all when it is cold, dress in layers you can easily remove as you warm up. Generally, you will be warm after about 10-15 minutes of rigorous activity.
Here are a few other pointers:
Ears
Wear a headband or ear muffs to keep your ears warm. *Do not wear a hat or cap. You lose most of your heat through your head, and while keeping it covered may seem desirable when the temperatures dip, if you plan to engage in rigorous exercise--even in the cold--your body needs to be able to release the excess heat it will generate. Otherwise, you risk becoming overheated, despite the freezing temperatures.
*I do wear a hat if I am only walking or hiking, as these are lower-intensity activities and I do not get as warm as fast. If I am running, however, I wear a headband.
*If it is raining hard enough, I recommend wearing a baseball cap or a visor to keep the rain out of your eyes.
Core
Dress in layers. The innermost layer--the one against your skin--should not be cotton, which absorbs moisture and then holds it next to your skin, causing you to feel cool. Instead, choose an innermost layer made of fabric that will wick moisture away, helping draw sweat away from your skin.
Hands
I don't get too technical here. I just wear gloves, the thickness dependent on the temperature outside. One thing I can recommend is to make sure that at intervals, you wiggle your fingers and/or clench and unclench your fists a few times. Keeping your fingers moving now and again can help keep the blood flowing strongly to them, and thus help keep them warm(er).
Dr. Delia Roberts recommends wearing "breathable, water-resistant shells over regular gloves."
You might also like:
Motivation to Move: A Higher Purpose for Exercising
When Do You Work Out?: Keeping Your Cardio Committments
(Attr)active Wear
Sources:
Roberts, Delia. "Heating Up Cold-Weather Workouts." Healthy Living Made Simple.
November/December 2013. Pgs. 28-29.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Step-by-Step Eye Makeup
The below eye makeup routine, which features a shape, can be completed with any color scheme you desire. Shown below are Mary Kay Mineral Eye Color in Moonstone, the darkest shade in the Eye Studio by Maybelline Green with Envy (40) palette, Cover Girl Pencil Eyeliner in Black, and Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in black. The important thing to remember is to use the lighter eyeshadow over the whole lid and the darker eyeshadow to draw the shape.
Step 1
Apply the lighter of your two shadows to entire eyelid, from lash line line to eyebrow. Then, use your darker shadow to draw the shape, as shown below.
Step 2
Using a small eye makeup brush, lightly blend the darker shadow into the lighter shadow, without completely erasing the shape. You just want to make the lines a little softer and the shape a little more subtle.
Step 3
Apply eyeliner to top lash line. (If you want your eyes to have even more shape and definition, you can also line the bottom lid in black.)
Step 4
Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes, using tips featured in Five Mascara Tips.
Below, you can see a comparison of the eyes before and after makeup application.
 | ||||
| Above are the eyes devoid of any makeup. |
Apply the lighter of your two shadows to entire eyelid, from lash line line to eyebrow. Then, use your darker shadow to draw the shape, as shown below.
Using a small eye makeup brush, lightly blend the darker shadow into the lighter shadow, without completely erasing the shape. You just want to make the lines a little softer and the shape a little more subtle.
Apply eyeliner to top lash line. (If you want your eyes to have even more shape and definition, you can also line the bottom lid in black.)
Step 4
Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes, using tips featured in Five Mascara Tips.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Shaving Basics: Seven Tips to Save your Shave
1. Just as with washing your face (see Washing Your Face: What You Didn't Know You Didn't Know), the optimal time for you to shave is at the end of your shower, when your pores have been opened from the exposure to warm water.
2. If you use a shave gel or foam, allow it to sit on your skin for a minute before you begin shaving. Doing so can add moisture to your skin (if your gel/foam contains a moisturizer), as well as help further soften the hair before you shave.
3. When you experience pulling or have to go over the same areas more than one time, it is time to change your razor blade.
4. For particularly sensitive areas, such as arm pits or the bikini line, you can reduce irritation by shaving with the grain instead of against it, or even shaving perpendicular to the grain. You may not achieve as close of a shave, but you will minimize skin irritation.
5. Use one, even stroke, as opposed to multiple strokes across the same area.
6. Contrary to common sense, if you experience in-grown hairs, Dr. Dover, a dermatologist and co-director of SkinCare Physicians, actually recommends shaving more--not less--often, because "a consistent daily routine doesn't give the hairs a chance to become ingrown."
7. After you shave, rinse the area with cold water. Doing so can provide relief from cuts, nicks, or razor burn, as well has help close the pores.
For more information on this topic, you may also want to check out Bikini Line Blues.
Source:
Dover, Jeffrey S. "Shaving 101." Healthy Living Made Simple. November/December 2013. P. 47.
2. If you use a shave gel or foam, allow it to sit on your skin for a minute before you begin shaving. Doing so can add moisture to your skin (if your gel/foam contains a moisturizer), as well as help further soften the hair before you shave.
3. When you experience pulling or have to go over the same areas more than one time, it is time to change your razor blade.
4. For particularly sensitive areas, such as arm pits or the bikini line, you can reduce irritation by shaving with the grain instead of against it, or even shaving perpendicular to the grain. You may not achieve as close of a shave, but you will minimize skin irritation.
5. Use one, even stroke, as opposed to multiple strokes across the same area.
6. Contrary to common sense, if you experience in-grown hairs, Dr. Dover, a dermatologist and co-director of SkinCare Physicians, actually recommends shaving more--not less--often, because "a consistent daily routine doesn't give the hairs a chance to become ingrown."
7. After you shave, rinse the area with cold water. Doing so can provide relief from cuts, nicks, or razor burn, as well has help close the pores.
For more information on this topic, you may also want to check out Bikini Line Blues.
Source:
Dover, Jeffrey S. "Shaving 101." Healthy Living Made Simple. November/December 2013. P. 47.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
The Chocolate Craving: Take Two
It's no secret. I love chocolate. And this time of year, there are even more tempting goodies around than usual.
To be honest, I see nothing wrong with a little indulgence every now and then (as in dessert after both lunch and dinner...every day). But sometimes, a little self-control might be in order.
I've done a post on health-conscious ways to satisfy your chocolate craving before (you can check it out at http://breackneckbeautywellnessforwomen.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-chocolate-craving.html), but since then, I have come across even more ways to satisfy that undeniable craving for cocoa. In most instances, I'd be lying if I told you the below foods were healthy options, but they are healthier alternatives to eating, say, a piece of chocolate cake or a candy bar.
Craving: Chocolate Cookies
Solution: Kashi Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies
I would have included pictures here, but I already ate all these delectable little whole-grain cookies. One cookie boasts 10 grams of whole grain per serving, 4 grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat. You can view a full list of ingredients, view photographs, and get all the nutrition facts here.
Even though the cookies are not very big, one goes a long way. The chocolate flavor is rich and decadent, and because they are whole grain, they are fairly filling. I never ate more than two in one sitting, and I was usually satisfied after one and a half.
Craving: Brownies
Solution: Kashi Soft-Baked Chocolate Squares
Made with whole grains, sweet potato, and black beans, these squares of chocolate goodness are an excellent substitute for your everyday brownie. They do not appear to be very large, but they pack a powerful punch. Sometimes, I felt full and satisfied before finishing just one.
An added bonus is the fact that they are individually wrapped, making them an easy dessert option for a brown-bag lunch.
To view the full nutrition facts and ingredients list, click here.
Craving: Pudding, Mousse, or Ice Cream
Solution: Yoplait Chocolate Mousse or Chocolate Raspberry Whipped Yogurt
There are at least two delicious ways to indulge in this dessert--another easy one for a brown-bag lunch. Option One: You can simply eat it as is right out of the fridge. Option Two: You can freeze it and eat it as frozen yogurt. If you're so inclined, you could even turn it into a sundae by adding a bit of whipped cream and a cherry or some nuts.
One of these chocolatey yogurts provides 10% of your recommended daily calcium intake and 5 grams of protein. It also, however, contains 22 grams of sugar. As desserts go, though, that's probably not too bad. For full nutritional information, click here.
Did you know...?
If you just cannot deny yourself that slice of chocolate cake or that homemade brownie, you can reduce the fat content by using applesauce or plain yogurt in place of butter.
To be honest, I see nothing wrong with a little indulgence every now and then (as in dessert after both lunch and dinner...every day). But sometimes, a little self-control might be in order.
I've done a post on health-conscious ways to satisfy your chocolate craving before (you can check it out at http://breackneckbeautywellnessforwomen.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-chocolate-craving.html), but since then, I have come across even more ways to satisfy that undeniable craving for cocoa. In most instances, I'd be lying if I told you the below foods were healthy options, but they are healthier alternatives to eating, say, a piece of chocolate cake or a candy bar.
Craving: Chocolate Cookies
Solution: Kashi Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies
I would have included pictures here, but I already ate all these delectable little whole-grain cookies. One cookie boasts 10 grams of whole grain per serving, 4 grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat. You can view a full list of ingredients, view photographs, and get all the nutrition facts here.
Even though the cookies are not very big, one goes a long way. The chocolate flavor is rich and decadent, and because they are whole grain, they are fairly filling. I never ate more than two in one sitting, and I was usually satisfied after one and a half.
Craving: Brownies
Solution: Kashi Soft-Baked Chocolate Squares
Made with whole grains, sweet potato, and black beans, these squares of chocolate goodness are an excellent substitute for your everyday brownie. They do not appear to be very large, but they pack a powerful punch. Sometimes, I felt full and satisfied before finishing just one.
An added bonus is the fact that they are individually wrapped, making them an easy dessert option for a brown-bag lunch.
To view the full nutrition facts and ingredients list, click here.
Craving: Pudding, Mousse, or Ice Cream
Solution: Yoplait Chocolate Mousse or Chocolate Raspberry Whipped Yogurt
There are at least two delicious ways to indulge in this dessert--another easy one for a brown-bag lunch. Option One: You can simply eat it as is right out of the fridge. Option Two: You can freeze it and eat it as frozen yogurt. If you're so inclined, you could even turn it into a sundae by adding a bit of whipped cream and a cherry or some nuts.
One of these chocolatey yogurts provides 10% of your recommended daily calcium intake and 5 grams of protein. It also, however, contains 22 grams of sugar. As desserts go, though, that's probably not too bad. For full nutritional information, click here.
Did you know...?
If you just cannot deny yourself that slice of chocolate cake or that homemade brownie, you can reduce the fat content by using applesauce or plain yogurt in place of butter.
Friday, December 13, 2013
Fit with Fido: Making the Most of a Walk with your Dog(s)
I recently read that the average, healthy, adult dog should get at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. Guess what? In a convenient coincidence, the average, healthy, adult human should ideally get at least the same. Are you and your dog getting enough?
Walk the Walk
The first step in making sure you and your canine companion(s) are getting enough physical activity is to walk together. A good starting point might be to aim for 25-30 minutes in the morning and 25-30 minutes in the afternoon or evening. In cases of extreme weather, or if you and/or your dog have health concerns, you may want to start with just 10-15 minutes per walk, and work your way up if you can.
There are many, many benefits to walking your dog on a regular basis. Here are just a few:
March
This morning when I walked my dogs, it was dark outside and only 29 degrees. After about 10 or 15 minutes, my fingers, though hidden away in both my gloves and my pockets, were painfully cold. In an attempt to get my blood flowing--and restore feeling to my fingers--I decided to march instead of just walk. Less than two blocks later, not a single part of my body was cold anymore.
Aside from helping to keep you warm on a frigid walk, incorporating bouts of marching into your dog walk has other benefits, as well:
In addition, you can help keep your heart rate up by marching in place when your dog(s) stop to sniff or go potty.
Calf Lifts
To further mix things up and use an even greater variety of muscle groups, add calf lifts into your dog walks. Whenever your dogs stop to sniff or use the bathroom, do as many calf lifts as you can. If you want to add in even more variety, you can alternate calf lifts with marching or running in place.
Doga
Many dog training facilities, gyms, etc. are beginning to realize the benefits of working out with a canine companion, and are adding innovative dog-friendly classes to their course offerings. Doga (Yoga with your Dog) is one example. The Richmond SPCA is just one example of an organization that includes such an offering.
Organized Group Walks/Runs
In Richmond alone, I can think of three different organized dog walks and/or runs, including Richmond Animal League's Strut your Mutt, Fetch a Cure's Mutt Strut, and the Richmond SPCA's Dog Jog. There are many such events throughout the country. Usually, they not only provide a way for you and your dog to be active, but also function as fundraising events for local animal shelters, dog training facilities, animal advocacy organizations, etc.
Group Ex for Dogs
Some gyms and fitness organizations are beginning to incorporate dog-friendly group exercise classes into their course offerings. In fact, there is even an organization that specializes in classes involving exercising with your dog. It was recently featured on Veria Living's Natural Companions.
Word to the Wise...
1. When planning to walk or run with your dog, start small and work your way up, in terms of pace, distance, and duration.
2. Do not start to run puppies who are too young. Doing so can cause permanent damage. Consult your veterinarian.
Want to know more?
Check out Exercise for Dogs, an awesomely informative article posted by the ASPCA.
Walk the Walk
The first step in making sure you and your canine companion(s) are getting enough physical activity is to walk together. A good starting point might be to aim for 25-30 minutes in the morning and 25-30 minutes in the afternoon or evening. In cases of extreme weather, or if you and/or your dog have health concerns, you may want to start with just 10-15 minutes per walk, and work your way up if you can.
There are many, many benefits to walking your dog on a regular basis. Here are just a few:
- 1. Helps reduce undesirable behaviors (in your dog...), such as digging, chewing, incessant barking, etc.
- 2. Helps keep you and your dog physically fit and active.
- 3. Helps reduce constipation and other digestive problems in your dog.
- 4. Is an excellent way to bond with your dog.
- 5. Helps reduce stress in both you and your dog.
- 6. Is an enjoyable way to spend time in the great outdoors with your dog.
- 7. Helps you meet your neighbors. (Trust me on this; on a daily basis in any given location--grocery store, gas station, mall, out for a run--people know who I am just because they see me walking my dogs all the time.)
- 8. I recently read (I desperately wish I could remember where) that neighborhoods in which people walk their dogs on a regular basis are perceived as being safer--and actually are safe, mainly because people who walk their dogs tend to pay attention to and notice things in the neighborhood, especially things that seem out of the ordinary.
- 9. A study conducted at Michigan State University in 2011 found that people who walked their dogs exhibited better overall health and fitness, and were more likely to meet recommended fitness benchmarks.
March
This morning when I walked my dogs, it was dark outside and only 29 degrees. After about 10 or 15 minutes, my fingers, though hidden away in both my gloves and my pockets, were painfully cold. In an attempt to get my blood flowing--and restore feeling to my fingers--I decided to march instead of just walk. Less than two blocks later, not a single part of my body was cold anymore.
Aside from helping to keep you warm on a frigid walk, incorporating bouts of marching into your dog walk has other benefits, as well:
- 1. Increase heart rate for better cardiovascular workout.
- 2. Increase heart rate for better calorie burn.
- 3. Works different muscle groups to help balance fitness routine.
In addition, you can help keep your heart rate up by marching in place when your dog(s) stop to sniff or go potty.
Calf Lifts
To further mix things up and use an even greater variety of muscle groups, add calf lifts into your dog walks. Whenever your dogs stop to sniff or use the bathroom, do as many calf lifts as you can. If you want to add in even more variety, you can alternate calf lifts with marching or running in place.
Doga
Many dog training facilities, gyms, etc. are beginning to realize the benefits of working out with a canine companion, and are adding innovative dog-friendly classes to their course offerings. Doga (Yoga with your Dog) is one example. The Richmond SPCA is just one example of an organization that includes such an offering.
Organized Group Walks/Runs
In Richmond alone, I can think of three different organized dog walks and/or runs, including Richmond Animal League's Strut your Mutt, Fetch a Cure's Mutt Strut, and the Richmond SPCA's Dog Jog. There are many such events throughout the country. Usually, they not only provide a way for you and your dog to be active, but also function as fundraising events for local animal shelters, dog training facilities, animal advocacy organizations, etc.
Group Ex for Dogs
Some gyms and fitness organizations are beginning to incorporate dog-friendly group exercise classes into their course offerings. In fact, there is even an organization that specializes in classes involving exercising with your dog. It was recently featured on Veria Living's Natural Companions.
Word to the Wise...
1. When planning to walk or run with your dog, start small and work your way up, in terms of pace, distance, and duration.
2. Do not start to run puppies who are too young. Doing so can cause permanent damage. Consult your veterinarian.
Want to know more?
Check out Exercise for Dogs, an awesomely informative article posted by the ASPCA.
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Butternut Squash Soup
As I sit here warming my back in front a roaring fire, both dogs curled up on the couch, my husband lounging on the overstuffed chair, my Christmas tree cheerful in the front window, and a chilly rain falling outside, I can't help but think what perfect soup weather this is. There's nothing quite like a bowl of hot soup or stew to warm you up from the inside out during the cold, winter months. And recently, I discovered a new favorite.
Lately, I've been on sort of a whole foods kick. I've felt this urge to get closer to my food (I know that probably sounds weird, but it's true). I want to make what I'm eating instead of just opening a can or a box (though I admit to eating frozen lasagna for dinner tonight). In the last few weeks, this recent urge has led me to make two pumpkin pies from real pumpkins (even though I had never even tried to make a pumpkin pie out of canned pumpkin before), my grandma's homemade applesauce, and, just yesterday, butternut squash soup.
All three ventures have proved relative successes, and below I share with you the recipe I used for the butternut squash soup. It's a modification of a recipe I found at crockpotladies.com. I choose it for its seeming ease of preparation, as well as for the appealing ingredients listed. One of my favorite things about the finished product was its texture--it was thick and smooth.
Butternut Squash Soup
You will need...
1 2-pound butternut squash
1 small, peeled, chopped sweet onion
1 cup homemade applesauce (or 1 apple, peeled and cored)
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 tspn. pepper (honestly, I will probably use more next time)
1/4 tspn. nutmeg
1/4 tspn. ground cloves
1/4 tspn. cinnamon
1/4 tspn. allspice
1/4 tspn. salt
8 oz. neufchatel cheese
shredded carrots
Procedure:
1. Wash butternut squash and slice in half. Remove "guts" and seeds.
2. Brush butternut squash with olive oil and roast for 30 minutes at 300 degrees.
3. Let cool. Peel.
4. Slice butternut squash into cubes.
5. Combine all ingredients except neufchatel cheese and carrots.
6. Cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
7. 30 minutes before serving time, cut neufchatel cheese into chunks and place in slow cooker to soften.
8. After 30 minutes, stir soup.
9. Pour soup into blender and blend smooth.
10. Serve garnished with shredded carrots.
Did you know...?
1. Wholeliving.com deems butternut squash a power food.
2. Butternut squash is high in fiber and potassium.
3. Butternut squash boasts extremely high levels of beta-carotene, or Vitamin A.
4. One cup of butternut squash can provide 50% of your recommended daily value of Vitamin C.
5. Like cherries, butternut squash contains high levels of antiodixants that may reduce inflammation.
--source: Wholeliving.com
 |
| This recipe for butternut squash soup in the slow cooker was easy, and the result was both tasty and nutritious. |
All three ventures have proved relative successes, and below I share with you the recipe I used for the butternut squash soup. It's a modification of a recipe I found at crockpotladies.com. I choose it for its seeming ease of preparation, as well as for the appealing ingredients listed. One of my favorite things about the finished product was its texture--it was thick and smooth.
Butternut Squash Soup
You will need...
1 2-pound butternut squash
1 small, peeled, chopped sweet onion
1 cup homemade applesauce (or 1 apple, peeled and cored)
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 tspn. pepper (honestly, I will probably use more next time)
1/4 tspn. nutmeg
1/4 tspn. ground cloves
1/4 tspn. cinnamon
1/4 tspn. allspice
1/4 tspn. salt
8 oz. neufchatel cheese
shredded carrots
Procedure:
1. Wash butternut squash and slice in half. Remove "guts" and seeds.
2. Brush butternut squash with olive oil and roast for 30 minutes at 300 degrees.
3. Let cool. Peel.
4. Slice butternut squash into cubes.
5. Combine all ingredients except neufchatel cheese and carrots.
6. Cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
7. 30 minutes before serving time, cut neufchatel cheese into chunks and place in slow cooker to soften.
8. After 30 minutes, stir soup.
9. Pour soup into blender and blend smooth.
10. Serve garnished with shredded carrots.
Did you know...?
1. Wholeliving.com deems butternut squash a power food.
2. Butternut squash is high in fiber and potassium.
3. Butternut squash boasts extremely high levels of beta-carotene, or Vitamin A.
4. One cup of butternut squash can provide 50% of your recommended daily value of Vitamin C.
5. Like cherries, butternut squash contains high levels of antiodixants that may reduce inflammation.
--source: Wholeliving.com
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Thanksgiving
I will not be shopping on Thanksgiving. I never have, and I do not plan to start now.
Over the past few weeks, I have noticed several movements, particularly on Facebook, urging consumers--nay, let us say people, for we are (hopefully) more than mere consumers--not to shop on Thanksgiving. Some of them are mild; others are a little angrier, accusing people of being "part of the problem" if they shop on Thanksgiving. While I do agree with this sentiment, I do not think it is necessarily the best way to go about convincing Thanksgiving shoppers to postpone their money-saving plans until Black Friday. Instead, I think we ought to go about the entire issue lovingly, appealing to people's sense of humanity.
Here is why I will not be shopping on Thanksgiving, and I hope you and yours will follow suit.
1. The Golden Rule
You might be familiar with this one--the whole "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" idea. I don't know about you, but I am pretty glad I do not have to work tomorrow--and I feel pretty bad for those of us who do. While there are those selfless civil servants--police, firemen, doctors, and the like--who will be at work tomorrow as a result of their necessity to society's safety and smooth operation--there is no necessity for someone in, for example, retail to be at work tomorrow. I would certainly not want to be told to come in to work tomorrow; I do not want to be the reason someone else has to go in.
As a Thanksgiving worker, one might console oneself with the idea of appropriate compensation--overtime or double time or some planned day off in the future. As a Thanksgiving shopper, one may justify one's decision to shop on a national holiday with the same consolation. However, there is no way to know whether the cashier on the other end of the transaction will actually be compensated in such a way. And to be honest, I would personally rather have the day at home with my family than a slightly larger paycheck. I imagine that most people in even a somewhat comfortable position probably share those sentiments.
If you are tempted to head out and shop tomorrow, ask yourself: Would I want to work today? If the answer is no, please stay home.
2. Entitlement
In a day and age where feelings of entitlement seem to be growing more prevalent, it seems to me like setting aside a holiday designated solely to gratitude is a pretty good idea. Even if we are grateful for all we have, forgetting to acknowledge our gratitude--even just to ourselves--is so easy in the face of all the obligations and responsibilities in our lives. Sending people to work on a day when most of us are home enjoying warm pies, piles of turkey, and some distant relative's green bean casserole may foster resentment in those who have to work, but will likely not foster gratitude in them (though we may hope they will at least feel grateful to be employed). In addition, keeping stores open on Thanksgiving can foster feelings of entitlement in the consumer, who may take for granted the fact that he or she can shop whenever he or she wants, regardless of, oh, you know, a national holiday meant for spending time with loved ones and acknowledging our blessings.
3. Work, Work,Work
This argument may seem contradictory to the one that precedes it, but I have to say it: Considering the long hours most people keep at work these days, they deserve some time off; they are--dare I say it?--entitled to it.
Just look at the statistics:
On November 6, I saw a house fully decorated for Christmas--lights, tree, the whole package. I have to admit that even I thought it was a little too early for such displays. After all, Halloween was only a week gone by. And yet, a week and a half later, I found myself following suit.
I got some compliments, and I got some "it's-not-even-Thanksgiving yet's." But the compliments on my holiday spirit far outweighed any naysayers' comments.Why is that? Let's be frank: It's hard to knock colorful lights, cheerful trees, and a nativity set, but I think there's more to it than that.
I think this phenomenon that has come to be known as "holiday creep" is as much a symptom of the commercialization of Christmas as it is of a society where many people are over-worked, over-stressed, and overwhelmed. They are craving not only a distraction, but also a little joy, some unity, and some togetherness.
I should admit that I did feel a little wrong stringing lights as early as November 17--like I was betraying Thanksgiving. I didn't really have an excuse other than it was 75 degrees that day and hanging lights in that temperature was a lot more comfortable than the 35 degrees we had last weekend and the 30s and 40s in store for us this weekend. But for those people who will be working on Thanksgiving? Well--why not "skip" Thanksgiving altogether and dive headlong into Christmas? If Thanksgiving is going to be treated as just another work day for them, so bet it.
But I think that's sad. Everyone deserves to set aside a day--it is just one day--for gratitude.
If you are going to shop on Thanksgiving...
Please embody the spirit of the holiday. Treat the employees you encounter with love, kindness--and gratitude. They are there for you as much as for The (proverbial) Man making the money off you. Don't forget that they would likely rather be at home eating turkey and watching football with their families.
Gratitude On the Go
Looking for ways to be more grateful on a regular basis? Here are some tips!
1. Before you get out of bed in the morning, envision your day, and count all the good things you expect to happen. An example list might look like this:
1. I have a delicious lunch packed today
2. I am going to wear my favorite sweater
3. We're eating leftovers for dinner, so I don't have to cook tonight
4. The weather forecast looks great
2. When you go to bed at night, make a mental gratitude list that includes all the good things you can think of from your day.
3. Always remember to say thank you.
4. Never expect anyone to thank you (even when they should); do good for the sake of doing good and the way it makes you feel. When someone does thank you, let yourself revel in the moment, even if just briefly.
5. Focus on the positive. Instead of harping on how you wish things were, be grateful for the way things are.
Sources:
http://www.bls.gov/tus/charts/#work
http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=93364
Over the past few weeks, I have noticed several movements, particularly on Facebook, urging consumers--nay, let us say people, for we are (hopefully) more than mere consumers--not to shop on Thanksgiving. Some of them are mild; others are a little angrier, accusing people of being "part of the problem" if they shop on Thanksgiving. While I do agree with this sentiment, I do not think it is necessarily the best way to go about convincing Thanksgiving shoppers to postpone their money-saving plans until Black Friday. Instead, I think we ought to go about the entire issue lovingly, appealing to people's sense of humanity.
Here is why I will not be shopping on Thanksgiving, and I hope you and yours will follow suit.
1. The Golden Rule
You might be familiar with this one--the whole "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" idea. I don't know about you, but I am pretty glad I do not have to work tomorrow--and I feel pretty bad for those of us who do. While there are those selfless civil servants--police, firemen, doctors, and the like--who will be at work tomorrow as a result of their necessity to society's safety and smooth operation--there is no necessity for someone in, for example, retail to be at work tomorrow. I would certainly not want to be told to come in to work tomorrow; I do not want to be the reason someone else has to go in.
As a Thanksgiving worker, one might console oneself with the idea of appropriate compensation--overtime or double time or some planned day off in the future. As a Thanksgiving shopper, one may justify one's decision to shop on a national holiday with the same consolation. However, there is no way to know whether the cashier on the other end of the transaction will actually be compensated in such a way. And to be honest, I would personally rather have the day at home with my family than a slightly larger paycheck. I imagine that most people in even a somewhat comfortable position probably share those sentiments.
If you are tempted to head out and shop tomorrow, ask yourself: Would I want to work today? If the answer is no, please stay home.
2. Entitlement
In a day and age where feelings of entitlement seem to be growing more prevalent, it seems to me like setting aside a holiday designated solely to gratitude is a pretty good idea. Even if we are grateful for all we have, forgetting to acknowledge our gratitude--even just to ourselves--is so easy in the face of all the obligations and responsibilities in our lives. Sending people to work on a day when most of us are home enjoying warm pies, piles of turkey, and some distant relative's green bean casserole may foster resentment in those who have to work, but will likely not foster gratitude in them (though we may hope they will at least feel grateful to be employed). In addition, keeping stores open on Thanksgiving can foster feelings of entitlement in the consumer, who may take for granted the fact that he or she can shop whenever he or she wants, regardless of, oh, you know, a national holiday meant for spending time with loved ones and acknowledging our blessings.
3. Work, Work,Work
This argument may seem contradictory to the one that precedes it, but I have to say it: Considering the long hours most people keep at work these days, they deserve some time off; they are--dare I say it?--entitled to it.
Just look at the statistics:
- Parents ages 25 to 54 spend an average of 8.8 hours per day at work. While that may not seem too outrageous, in 2012, 37% of those who held Bachelor's degrees or higher worked additional hours at home.
- In 2012, 34% of employed people age 15 and above worked on the weekends, as well as during the week. For people who held multiple jobs, the number jumped to 67%.
- Americans work an average of one month more per year than we did in 1970.
On November 6, I saw a house fully decorated for Christmas--lights, tree, the whole package. I have to admit that even I thought it was a little too early for such displays. After all, Halloween was only a week gone by. And yet, a week and a half later, I found myself following suit.
I got some compliments, and I got some "it's-not-even-Thanksgiving yet's." But the compliments on my holiday spirit far outweighed any naysayers' comments.Why is that? Let's be frank: It's hard to knock colorful lights, cheerful trees, and a nativity set, but I think there's more to it than that.
I think this phenomenon that has come to be known as "holiday creep" is as much a symptom of the commercialization of Christmas as it is of a society where many people are over-worked, over-stressed, and overwhelmed. They are craving not only a distraction, but also a little joy, some unity, and some togetherness.
I should admit that I did feel a little wrong stringing lights as early as November 17--like I was betraying Thanksgiving. I didn't really have an excuse other than it was 75 degrees that day and hanging lights in that temperature was a lot more comfortable than the 35 degrees we had last weekend and the 30s and 40s in store for us this weekend. But for those people who will be working on Thanksgiving? Well--why not "skip" Thanksgiving altogether and dive headlong into Christmas? If Thanksgiving is going to be treated as just another work day for them, so bet it.
But I think that's sad. Everyone deserves to set aside a day--it is just one day--for gratitude.
If you are going to shop on Thanksgiving...
Please embody the spirit of the holiday. Treat the employees you encounter with love, kindness--and gratitude. They are there for you as much as for The (proverbial) Man making the money off you. Don't forget that they would likely rather be at home eating turkey and watching football with their families.
Gratitude On the Go
Looking for ways to be more grateful on a regular basis? Here are some tips!
1. Before you get out of bed in the morning, envision your day, and count all the good things you expect to happen. An example list might look like this:
1. I have a delicious lunch packed today
2. I am going to wear my favorite sweater
3. We're eating leftovers for dinner, so I don't have to cook tonight
4. The weather forecast looks great
2. When you go to bed at night, make a mental gratitude list that includes all the good things you can think of from your day.
3. Always remember to say thank you.
4. Never expect anyone to thank you (even when they should); do good for the sake of doing good and the way it makes you feel. When someone does thank you, let yourself revel in the moment, even if just briefly.
5. Focus on the positive. Instead of harping on how you wish things were, be grateful for the way things are.
Sources:
http://www.bls.gov/tus/charts/#work
http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=93364
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
November Pancakes: A Twist on the Traditional
Tonight, we had breakfast for dinner. Matty cooked up some pancakes and bacon. While I don't dislike pancakes and bacon by any means, and I was grateful for Matty's willingness to both prepare the meal and complete the clean-up tonight, pancakes and bacon just aren't my favorite meal. I wouldn't choose it on my own--morning or evening, but I'll eat it, albeit with a relative lack of enthusiasm.
At first, I had resigned myself to the typical topping: maple syrup (no butter, though). I'm actually a pretty big fan of maple syrup. When I do eat pancakes--or waffles, for that matter--I pretty much douse them in syrup. But I pulled our "syrup" out of our fridge tonight to find it wasn't the real thing, and in fact, its first ingredient was high fructose corn syrup.
To be honest, I don't really know why everyone is so up in arms about high fructose corn syrup right now, but I know no one thinks it's a good idea in anything. Given my tendency to drown my pancakes in syrup, and the general uproar over high fructose corn syrup, I decided to ask myself what else I could possibly use to top my pancakes.
November Pancakes were the delicious result of my improvisations.
You will need:
1) just-add-water pancake mix (We used Aunt Jemima Original Complete)
2) water according to pancake mix directions
3) dried cranberries (I used Craisins)
4) ground cinnamon (I used Penzey's)
5) pumpkin butter (I used Private Selection Oregon Pumpkin Butter)
Simply prepare pancakes as directed, and:
1) spread with as much pumpkin butter as desired
2) sprinkle with as much cinnamon as desired (don't go overboard)
3) top with as many cranberries as desired (I was pretty generous)
4) drizzle with just a bit of maple syrup
The result was, well, beautiful--to start. The bright red cranberries sitting atop a bed of orange pumpkin butter created quite a pleasing, autumnal aesthetic effect. I was tempted to take a picture--and in fact wish I had, but it smelled so good and I was so hungry that I found myself devouring my newly-created November Pancakes even as I contemplated whether or not I should photograph them. By the time I made up my mind that I should, I had only half a pancake (of the original three) left on my plate. Such is life. Guess you'll just have to make them yourself and see for yourself. :-)
At first, I had resigned myself to the typical topping: maple syrup (no butter, though). I'm actually a pretty big fan of maple syrup. When I do eat pancakes--or waffles, for that matter--I pretty much douse them in syrup. But I pulled our "syrup" out of our fridge tonight to find it wasn't the real thing, and in fact, its first ingredient was high fructose corn syrup.
To be honest, I don't really know why everyone is so up in arms about high fructose corn syrup right now, but I know no one thinks it's a good idea in anything. Given my tendency to drown my pancakes in syrup, and the general uproar over high fructose corn syrup, I decided to ask myself what else I could possibly use to top my pancakes.
November Pancakes were the delicious result of my improvisations.
You will need:
1) just-add-water pancake mix (We used Aunt Jemima Original Complete)
2) water according to pancake mix directions
3) dried cranberries (I used Craisins)
4) ground cinnamon (I used Penzey's)
5) pumpkin butter (I used Private Selection Oregon Pumpkin Butter)
Simply prepare pancakes as directed, and:
1) spread with as much pumpkin butter as desired
2) sprinkle with as much cinnamon as desired (don't go overboard)
3) top with as many cranberries as desired (I was pretty generous)
4) drizzle with just a bit of maple syrup
The result was, well, beautiful--to start. The bright red cranberries sitting atop a bed of orange pumpkin butter created quite a pleasing, autumnal aesthetic effect. I was tempted to take a picture--and in fact wish I had, but it smelled so good and I was so hungry that I found myself devouring my newly-created November Pancakes even as I contemplated whether or not I should photograph them. By the time I made up my mind that I should, I had only half a pancake (of the original three) left on my plate. Such is life. Guess you'll just have to make them yourself and see for yourself. :-)
Monday, November 18, 2013
Hair Today, Hair Tomorrow: Two Styles in One
I seem to always operate under the assumption that if someone's hair looks good, it must have taken her forever to get ready that morning.
This is not, however, necessarily the case, as proven below, where you will find a versatile hairstyle (actually, it's kind of two hairstyles in one...) that works across two days, or a day and a night, or whatever your schedule demands of you in a forty-eight hour period.
This is a two-step process. If you're really busy, Step 1 can be worn during the day on Day 1, slept on that night, and then Step 2 can be worn on Day 2. Alternatively, you could wear Step 1 during the day, and wear Step 2 for your evening plans that night. Finally, you could simply sleep in Step 1, and wear Step 2 during the day. As you can see, this two-step process is very versatile and can be used in many situations.
(If you are really busy, you could even wash and dry your hair and wear it down Day 1, use Step 1 on Day 2, and then use Step 2 on Day 3.)
Step 1: The Up-Do
Time: 3 minutes
After you have washed and dried your hair and sprayed it with dry shampoo...
1. Pull up half of your hair as if you were preparing to put it up in a ponytail. Instead, twist the hair into a tight twist high on the back of your head.
2. Twirl the twist into a bun, and push it up a bit to give the hair on the top of your head a little "bump." Pin in place with as many bobby pins as necessary.
3. Spray with hairspray.
4. Braid the remaining hair into a tight braid. DO NOT fasten with a hair tie.
5. Twirl the braid into a second bun near the base of the head.
6. Pin in place with as many bobby pins as possible.
7. Spray with hairspray.
See photos below for finished up-do. Though I completed this style right before heading to bed, you can see it would be perfectly fine to wear out, as well.
1. Remove all bobby pins and shake hair free, arranging as needed with fingers.
2. Spray with hairspray if desired.
*Resist the urge to comb or brush your hair. Doing so will likely remove the curls and waves.*
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This is not, however, necessarily the case, as proven below, where you will find a versatile hairstyle (actually, it's kind of two hairstyles in one...) that works across two days, or a day and a night, or whatever your schedule demands of you in a forty-eight hour period.
This is a two-step process. If you're really busy, Step 1 can be worn during the day on Day 1, slept on that night, and then Step 2 can be worn on Day 2. Alternatively, you could wear Step 1 during the day, and wear Step 2 for your evening plans that night. Finally, you could simply sleep in Step 1, and wear Step 2 during the day. As you can see, this two-step process is very versatile and can be used in many situations.
(If you are really busy, you could even wash and dry your hair and wear it down Day 1, use Step 1 on Day 2, and then use Step 2 on Day 3.)
Step 1: The Up-Do
Time: 3 minutes
After you have washed and dried your hair and sprayed it with dry shampoo...
1. Pull up half of your hair as if you were preparing to put it up in a ponytail. Instead, twist the hair into a tight twist high on the back of your head.
2. Twirl the twist into a bun, and push it up a bit to give the hair on the top of your head a little "bump." Pin in place with as many bobby pins as necessary.
3. Spray with hairspray.
4. Braid the remaining hair into a tight braid. DO NOT fasten with a hair tie.
5. Twirl the braid into a second bun near the base of the head.
6. Pin in place with as many bobby pins as possible.
7. Spray with hairspray.
See photos below for finished up-do. Though I completed this style right before heading to bed, you can see it would be perfectly fine to wear out, as well.
 |
| The above look, shown from the back, each side, and the front, can be worn out or to bed, to be let down at any point (after a reasonable amount of time) to create the style below. |
Step 2: The Down-Do
Time: < 1 Minute
1. Remove all bobby pins and shake hair free, arranging as needed with fingers.
2. Spray with hairspray if desired.
*Resist the urge to comb or brush your hair. Doing so will likely remove the curls and waves.*
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| Above, you can see the result of Step 1: Up-Do, as shown on Day 2. The bun and braided bun create multiple layers of waves, adding body, volume, and character to your hair. |
Friday, November 15, 2013
Easiest Ever BBQ Chicken
As of Wednesday night, there is a new favorite meal in my household. With just two ingredients, it's inexpensive. With just three steps, it's easy. And, to top it all off, it's delicious!
Here it is:
Easiest Ever BBQ Chicken
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 1/2 bottles BBQ sauce (You can use any kind you like. I used Kraft Thick and Spicy Honey Barbecue Sauce. (The word "spicy" worried me a little, but the sauce was thick and sweet, not spicy, which was a good thing for me.)
Process:
1. Place chicken breasts in slow cooker.
2. Pour barbecue sauce over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 8 to 9 hours.
Makes 2-4 servings
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with cheesy scalloped potatoes and green beans.
*TIP*
If you've read this blog before at all, you've probably realized that I love my slow cooker. I do not, however, love to wash it. In fact, my husband and I have a deal: Every time I make dinner in the slow cooker, he washes it. (Like me, he doesn't exactly love to wash the slow cooker, but it's a compromise since he doesn't have to prepare the food.)
Anyway, the same night I tried the new recipe above, I also tried a new slow cooker tactic. The original recipe (which I modified; the original calls for bacon and Swiss cheese to be added near the end of the cooking time) came with a tip: To make clean-up easier, spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. I'm not sure why I had never thought of this before, but I hadn't. I tried it, and can confirm that it does indeed make washing the slow cooker easier. In fact, I just prepared tomorrow's beef stroganoff slow cooker meal, and sprayed my slow cooker prior to adding the ingredients.
Here it is:
Easiest Ever BBQ Chicken
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 1/2 bottles BBQ sauce (You can use any kind you like. I used Kraft Thick and Spicy Honey Barbecue Sauce. (The word "spicy" worried me a little, but the sauce was thick and sweet, not spicy, which was a good thing for me.)
Process:
1. Place chicken breasts in slow cooker.
2. Pour barbecue sauce over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 8 to 9 hours.
Makes 2-4 servings
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with cheesy scalloped potatoes and green beans.
*TIP*
If you've read this blog before at all, you've probably realized that I love my slow cooker. I do not, however, love to wash it. In fact, my husband and I have a deal: Every time I make dinner in the slow cooker, he washes it. (Like me, he doesn't exactly love to wash the slow cooker, but it's a compromise since he doesn't have to prepare the food.)
Anyway, the same night I tried the new recipe above, I also tried a new slow cooker tactic. The original recipe (which I modified; the original calls for bacon and Swiss cheese to be added near the end of the cooking time) came with a tip: To make clean-up easier, spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. I'm not sure why I had never thought of this before, but I hadn't. I tried it, and can confirm that it does indeed make washing the slow cooker easier. In fact, I just prepared tomorrow's beef stroganoff slow cooker meal, and sprayed my slow cooker prior to adding the ingredients.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Simple and Chic: A Complete Look Using Five Makeup Staples
Cover Girl Pencil Eyeliner in Black
Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in Black
Mary Kay Mineral Cheek Color in Strawberry Cream
Mary Kay Nourishine Lipgloss in Mango Tango
Cover Girl Advanced Radiance pressed powder in Classic Beige, No. 115
To achieve this look, follow these steps:
1. Line top lash line with Cover Girl Pencil Eyeliner in Black.
*TIP*:To make eyes appear larger, extend liner out to just shy of where eyebrow ends.
2. Apply Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in Black to top and bottom lashes.
3. Apply Mary Kay Cheek Color in Strawberry Cream to apples of your cheek.
*TIP*: To make sure you are applying color to the apples of your cheeks, smile as you apply, and apply to the part of your cheek that appears "rounded" or "lifted" when you smile.
4. Apply Mary Kay Nourishine Lipgloss in Mango Tango.
5. Apply Cover Girl Advanced Radiance pressed powder to face.
*TIP*: To further avoid clogging pores, be sure to apply in a downward motion to close pores. Applying in an upward motion can open them, allowing makeup, dirt, and oil to enter.
 |
| Note that to make the eye appear larger, you can extend the eyeliner beyond the edge of the eye, stopping just shy of where your eyebrow ends. |
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| Shown above: Cover Girl Pencil Eyeliner in Black, Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in Black, Mary Kay Cheek Color in Strawberry Cream, Mary Kay Nourishine Lipgloss in Mango Tango, and Cover Girl Advanced Radiance pressed powder in Classic Beige, No. 115. |
Monday, November 11, 2013
Cooking for Couples: Joy of Cooking's Lemon Curd Bars
You're probably familiar with the idea that a meal tastes better when someone else makes it. I'd like to propose a new idea; namely, that a meal tastes better when you make it with someone else. With the holiday cooking and baking season upon us, I thought it might be fitting to share a recipe that I recently (as in tonight) discovered is very conducive to cooking together as a couple.
I have to give my husband some credit--this whole cooking together idea was his. I was a little skeptical, but very willing, and I would say we met with relative success. The process was smooth and easy and the product was delicious.
Some recipes are more conducive to a duo than others, and we got pretty lucky with this one; it was very couple-cooking-friendly. You can find the original recipe on page 765 of the 2006 edition Joy of Cooking, but below you can find a couple-ready version.
Lemon Curd Bars
Partner #1
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. Whisk together:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup confectioner's sugar
Pinch of salt
Partner #2
1. While Partner #1 completes steps 1 and 2 above, slice 1 1/2 sticks cold unsalted butter into thin slices.
2. Use fingertips to add the butter into the dry mixture created by Partner #1.
Partner #1
3. While Partner #2 mixes the butter into the dry mixture, whisk together in large bowl
6 large eggs
3 cups sugar
Partner #2
3. After you have prepared the crust dough, grate the zest of one lemon into the moist mixture created by Partner #1.
4. Then, stir in 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 5 lemons).
(At this stage in the game in our case, Partner #2 had to run out to the grocery store and bring home more lemons...)
Partner #1
4. While Partner #2 adds lemon juice and zest to moist mixture, press the crust dough Partner #2 created into the bottom and and 3/4 inch up the sides of an un-greased 9X13 baking pan.
5. Bake 25 to 30 minutes.
Together
6. When Partner #2 has finished adding lemon zest and lemon juice to moist mixture, Partner #1 slowly adds 1/2 cup all-purpose flour as Partner #2 continues stirring.
Partner #1 or Partner #2
Pour the moist mixture over the baked crust. Reduce heat to 300 degrees. Bake about 35 minutes. Cool on cooling rack and sprinkle with confectioner's sugar.
Matty and I had a lot of fun and a nice evening preparing this from-scratch dessert for our family tonight, and everyone agreed that it was really tasty.
Plus I learned something new about my husband: He is not only a backseat driver; he is also a backseat baker...
I have to give my husband some credit--this whole cooking together idea was his. I was a little skeptical, but very willing, and I would say we met with relative success. The process was smooth and easy and the product was delicious.
Some recipes are more conducive to a duo than others, and we got pretty lucky with this one; it was very couple-cooking-friendly. You can find the original recipe on page 765 of the 2006 edition Joy of Cooking, but below you can find a couple-ready version.
Lemon Curd Bars
Partner #1
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. Whisk together:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup confectioner's sugar
Pinch of salt
Partner #2
1. While Partner #1 completes steps 1 and 2 above, slice 1 1/2 sticks cold unsalted butter into thin slices.
2. Use fingertips to add the butter into the dry mixture created by Partner #1.
Partner #1
3. While Partner #2 mixes the butter into the dry mixture, whisk together in large bowl
6 large eggs
3 cups sugar
Partner #2
3. After you have prepared the crust dough, grate the zest of one lemon into the moist mixture created by Partner #1.
4. Then, stir in 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 5 lemons).
(At this stage in the game in our case, Partner #2 had to run out to the grocery store and bring home more lemons...)
Partner #1
4. While Partner #2 adds lemon juice and zest to moist mixture, press the crust dough Partner #2 created into the bottom and and 3/4 inch up the sides of an un-greased 9X13 baking pan.
5. Bake 25 to 30 minutes.
Together
6. When Partner #2 has finished adding lemon zest and lemon juice to moist mixture, Partner #1 slowly adds 1/2 cup all-purpose flour as Partner #2 continues stirring.
Partner #1 or Partner #2
Pour the moist mixture over the baked crust. Reduce heat to 300 degrees. Bake about 35 minutes. Cool on cooling rack and sprinkle with confectioner's sugar.
Matty and I had a lot of fun and a nice evening preparing this from-scratch dessert for our family tonight, and everyone agreed that it was really tasty.
Plus I learned something new about my husband: He is not only a backseat driver; he is also a backseat baker...
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| The finished product pictured above is Joy of Cooking's Lemon Curd Bars. As it turns out, this recipe was very easy to make together, and tasted great! |
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Another Eye-dea: Neutral Eye Makeup with some Pizzazz
When we think of natural or neutral makeup, we tend to think of warm browns, smokey grays, or flesh-colored hues. While I must admit I am a fan of the natural look, neutral eye makeup doesn't always have to consist of merely earth tones or grays. The look below adds a pop of purple, but remains neutral and understated for everyday wear.
To achieve the above look, follow these steps:
1. Using ring finger, apply Mary Kay cream eyeshadow in Pale Blush to entire lid, from lash line to eyebrow.
2. Using sponge applicator, apply Mary Kay mineral eyeshadow in Honey Spice to entire lid, from lash line to eyebrow.
3. Using sponge applicator, apply Mary Kay mineral eyeshadow in Moonstone to brow bone.
4. Using sponge applicator, apply the purple shade of Almay Intense i-Color Trio for Greens to crease, beginning at inside of eye and extending color up to end of eyebrow and down to end of eyelid.
5. Apply Cover Girl pencil eyeliner in black to top lash line, extending color out just beyond the end of the eyelid.
6. Apply Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in black to top and bottom and lashes.
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| Shown above: Mary Kay cream eyeshadow in Pale Blush (base), Mary Kay mineral eyeshadow in Moonstone (brow bone), Mary Kay mineral eyeshadow in Honey Spice (eyelid), Almay Intense i-Color Trio for Greens (purple shade; on crease), Cover Girl pencil eyeliner in Black, and Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in Black. For steps to create this look and more pictures, see below. |
1. Using ring finger, apply Mary Kay cream eyeshadow in Pale Blush to entire lid, from lash line to eyebrow.
2. Using sponge applicator, apply Mary Kay mineral eyeshadow in Honey Spice to entire lid, from lash line to eyebrow.
3. Using sponge applicator, apply Mary Kay mineral eyeshadow in Moonstone to brow bone.
4. Using sponge applicator, apply the purple shade of Almay Intense i-Color Trio for Greens to crease, beginning at inside of eye and extending color up to end of eyebrow and down to end of eyelid.
5. Apply Cover Girl pencil eyeliner in black to top lash line, extending color out just beyond the end of the eyelid.
6. Apply Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in black to top and bottom and lashes.
 |
| Shown above are all the eye makeup products listed previously, as well Mary Kay mineral cheek color in Strawberry Cream, Cover Girl Pressed Powder in Ivory, and Chapstick brand mint-flavored chapstick. |
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Love your Leftovers: Two Meals in One
Some people are big fans of leftovers. Some are not. I fall into the former category. My husband falls into the latter. I must admit, he has gotten much better, and as a reward for his increased willingness to eat leftovers, I have made an attempt to make the leftovers seem a little less like, well, leftovers. Here is one way I have succeeded. (In fact, my husband says he probably won't want to eat chili without a baked potato again.)
Meal No. 1: Three Bean and Corn Chili
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
1 package mild dry chili seasoning
1 16-ounce can red kidney beans, drained
1 16-ounce can black beans, drained
1 16-ounce can white kidney beans, garbanzo beans, great northern beans, or pinto beans, drained
1 16-ounce can sweet corn, drained
14 ounces tomato juice or tomato sauce (for thick chili; use more if you prefer soupier chili)
2 tsp. sugar or brown sugar
Instructions
1. Brown beef/turkey in skillet. (I have skipped this step before and found that the meat cooks just fine in the slow cooker for 8-10 hours.)
2. Combine all ingredients in slow cooker.
3. Cover. Cook on low 8-10 hours.
4. Serve with shredded cheese and/or sour cream and crackers.
Makes about 8 servings.
*This recipe is a modification of "Three-Bean Chili," which can be found on page 178 of Fix-It and Forget-It Recipes for Entertaining: Slow Cooker Favorites for All the Year Round by Phyllis Pellman Good and Dawn J. Ranck.
Meal No. 2: "Baked" Potatoes and Chili (pictured above)
Ingredients
2 potatoes
2 cups leftover (or prepared) chili
shredded cheddar and/or mozzarella cheese to taste
sour cream to taste (optional)
Instructions
1. Prick potatoes in several places with fork. Wrap potatoes in aluminum foil. Place in slow cooker. Cover; cook on low 8-10 hours or on high 4-5 hours. Carefully unwrap potatoes and place on serving dish.
2. Re-heat chili in microwave. Split hot potatoes and spoon chili on top. Sprinkle with cheese and, if desired, spoon on sour cream.
3. Serve with corn bread (I recommend Krusteaz Honey Cornbread and Muffin mix)
Makes 2 servings.
*This is a modification of "Chili and Cheese 'Baked' Potato Supper," which can be found on the Sunday, March 24, 2013 calendar page of the Crock Pot: The Original Slow Cooker crock pot calendar.
Did you know...?
...one potato can provide you with as much potassium as can a banana? In addition, foregoing the peeling of your potatoes not only saves you some time and work, but can also provide you more fiber, and help the potato retain more of its nutrients during cooking.
Meal No. 1: Three Bean and Corn Chili
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
1 package mild dry chili seasoning
1 16-ounce can red kidney beans, drained
1 16-ounce can black beans, drained
1 16-ounce can white kidney beans, garbanzo beans, great northern beans, or pinto beans, drained
1 16-ounce can sweet corn, drained
14 ounces tomato juice or tomato sauce (for thick chili; use more if you prefer soupier chili)
2 tsp. sugar or brown sugar
Instructions
1. Brown beef/turkey in skillet. (I have skipped this step before and found that the meat cooks just fine in the slow cooker for 8-10 hours.)
2. Combine all ingredients in slow cooker.
3. Cover. Cook on low 8-10 hours.
4. Serve with shredded cheese and/or sour cream and crackers.
Makes about 8 servings.
*This recipe is a modification of "Three-Bean Chili," which can be found on page 178 of Fix-It and Forget-It Recipes for Entertaining: Slow Cooker Favorites for All the Year Round by Phyllis Pellman Good and Dawn J. Ranck.
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| The above recipe for Three Bean and Corn Chili can be "re-purposed" quite tastily the next night according to the recipe below, "Baked" Potatoes and Chili, pictured above topped with shredded cheddar cheese. |
Meal No. 2: "Baked" Potatoes and Chili (pictured above)
Ingredients
2 potatoes
2 cups leftover (or prepared) chili
shredded cheddar and/or mozzarella cheese to taste
sour cream to taste (optional)
Instructions
1. Prick potatoes in several places with fork. Wrap potatoes in aluminum foil. Place in slow cooker. Cover; cook on low 8-10 hours or on high 4-5 hours. Carefully unwrap potatoes and place on serving dish.
2. Re-heat chili in microwave. Split hot potatoes and spoon chili on top. Sprinkle with cheese and, if desired, spoon on sour cream.
3. Serve with corn bread (I recommend Krusteaz Honey Cornbread and Muffin mix)
Makes 2 servings.
*This is a modification of "Chili and Cheese 'Baked' Potato Supper," which can be found on the Sunday, March 24, 2013 calendar page of the Crock Pot: The Original Slow Cooker crock pot calendar.
Did you know...?
...one potato can provide you with as much potassium as can a banana? In addition, foregoing the peeling of your potatoes not only saves you some time and work, but can also provide you more fiber, and help the potato retain more of its nutrients during cooking.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Motivation to Move: A Higher Purpose for Exercising
Ask any John or Jane Doe why he or she exercises, and you are likely to get an answer like this: "To maintain a healthy body weight" or "To lose weight" or "To look good in a bathing suit" or "To lower my cholesterol" or "To stay fit and be healthy." We typically think of physical activity as a way to increase our longevity, maintain our physical health, and keep ourselves looking fit and trim.We tend to think we need to exercise to live a long, healthy life, and that, while it may sometimes be enjoyable, it is more often obligatory--a necessary evil we must endure to enjoy a small waistline or guiltlessly indulge in an extra brownie now and again.
I think we have it all wrong.
There is something fundamentally incorrect about believing that our exercise habits determine exactly the kind of life we will lead in terms of that life's quality, length, and purpose or meaning. Instead, I think we need to completely reverse our thinking on exercise--and why we do it.
As I was finishing up a four-mile run today, this thought occurred to me: I don't want to believe my run determines my size or my fitness or my ability. I don't want to give running (or yoga, or walking, or cycling--or anything) the power to determine how I think about my body. Instead, I want to run because I can. I want to run to express something greater than myself, to surpass the physical limits I have erroneously ascribed to myself, to touch on something deeper. I want to run in order to tap into a source of energy and vitality and ability that comes from something bigger than my lungs, my heart, and my muscles.
Mary Baker Eddy writes in her book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, "We are all capable of more than we do." This concept applies to many different aspects of our lives on many different levels. One aspect of our lives it can easily be applied to is our fitness. Many of us tend to indulge self-defeating thoughts. "I'm too heavy to run that far." "It will take me forever to work up to that distance." "I'm just too slow." "I don't have the time." "I'm worried about injury." The list goes on and on. What we don't always realize when we tell ourselves these discouraging lies, is that the ability to walk that far or run that fast or cycle that hill does not necessarily depend on our bodies. It depends on our heart--not our physical hearts--but our heart. Why place so many limits on ourselves before we even begin? Yoga, running, hiking, aerobics, walking--these should be exercises of a deeper self, not just of lungs, heart, muscles.We should be exercising our ability, not our bodies. Exercise should be seen as a celebration of all we can do, not a grueling activity in which we must engage to keep ourselves looking good.
But why--why change an ideology on exercise that has prevailed for so long; namely, that the quality and amount of it we get determines our health? This is why: Because while lowering our cholesterol or looking good in a bathing suit or adding a few years to our lives are all good things, they are only material benefits--and they are often not enough motivation to keep the average Joe at the gym or on the trails.
A few years ago, I worked part-time at my local YMCA. Every January, right after New Years, we would see an influx of new members. The gym would be packed. People were excited. They were motivated. This year, they were sure, they were going to uphold their New Year's Resolution of losing weight, or exercising at least three times a week--or whatever wellness goal they had made for themselves. You know what always happened? Without fail, by the end of March, we would be back to our regular numbers. Why? What happened? Simply put, these people had lost their mojo. The idea of being thin or lowering their cholesterol or toning various parts of their bodies had not been enough to keep "work out" at the top of their priority lists. And why not? Because these goals, by themselves, are vain and materialistic. We need more--something deeper and more meaningful--to keep us engaged. With family, home, and career obligations all vying for our time and energy, can we really justify spending so much time exercising if the only goal is to lose weight and look good? And so, our exercise goals fall to the wayside.
However, if we realize these goals are not the true goals, we can regain our motivation. If our true goal in going out for a run or a walk or a hike or a bike ride is to tap into something beyond ourselves--to push our limits and find a source of energy deeper than ourselves--suddenly, our workouts take on a spiritual quality. Human beings naturally search for meaning. We always ask why. If our only answer to the question "Why exercise?" is akin to "Because I want to look good," the question still remains. The answer is simply not good enough. It provides no deep meaning--no worthwhile purpose.
My best runs are the ones during which I completely lose sight of myself and the limits I think I have. When I just run for the joy of running, run simply to celebrate that I can--I feel like I have connected to something larger than myself. I can run. But I don't want to think it is because I am thin and tall and have been conditioning myself for years. Instead, I want to acknowledge that I can run because the source of my ability lies not within me as a physical body, but as a being connected to a large, omnipotent, unlimited source of energy, love, and ability.
If you let your exercise routine have power over you, it will become a sort of slave driver. If you let it determine how you feel and how you think about yourself, you will likely come to despise it. It will become a burden, an obligation. But if you can see your exercise routine as an opportunity to express Life, as a chance to exercise your ability, you will almost always approach it with joy and anticipation. I am working to realize that my running does not determine my fitness, nor does it have the ability to keep me thin or healthy; instead, my running is away for me to express and to celebrate that I am healthy. Do not decide that you are incapable; after all, "We are all capable of more than we do"--and more than we realize. Only by pushing the limits we think constrain us can we realize they were only illusions.
I think we have it all wrong.
There is something fundamentally incorrect about believing that our exercise habits determine exactly the kind of life we will lead in terms of that life's quality, length, and purpose or meaning. Instead, I think we need to completely reverse our thinking on exercise--and why we do it.
As I was finishing up a four-mile run today, this thought occurred to me: I don't want to believe my run determines my size or my fitness or my ability. I don't want to give running (or yoga, or walking, or cycling--or anything) the power to determine how I think about my body. Instead, I want to run because I can. I want to run to express something greater than myself, to surpass the physical limits I have erroneously ascribed to myself, to touch on something deeper. I want to run in order to tap into a source of energy and vitality and ability that comes from something bigger than my lungs, my heart, and my muscles.
Mary Baker Eddy writes in her book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, "We are all capable of more than we do." This concept applies to many different aspects of our lives on many different levels. One aspect of our lives it can easily be applied to is our fitness. Many of us tend to indulge self-defeating thoughts. "I'm too heavy to run that far." "It will take me forever to work up to that distance." "I'm just too slow." "I don't have the time." "I'm worried about injury." The list goes on and on. What we don't always realize when we tell ourselves these discouraging lies, is that the ability to walk that far or run that fast or cycle that hill does not necessarily depend on our bodies. It depends on our heart--not our physical hearts--but our heart. Why place so many limits on ourselves before we even begin? Yoga, running, hiking, aerobics, walking--these should be exercises of a deeper self, not just of lungs, heart, muscles.We should be exercising our ability, not our bodies. Exercise should be seen as a celebration of all we can do, not a grueling activity in which we must engage to keep ourselves looking good.
But why--why change an ideology on exercise that has prevailed for so long; namely, that the quality and amount of it we get determines our health? This is why: Because while lowering our cholesterol or looking good in a bathing suit or adding a few years to our lives are all good things, they are only material benefits--and they are often not enough motivation to keep the average Joe at the gym or on the trails.
A few years ago, I worked part-time at my local YMCA. Every January, right after New Years, we would see an influx of new members. The gym would be packed. People were excited. They were motivated. This year, they were sure, they were going to uphold their New Year's Resolution of losing weight, or exercising at least three times a week--or whatever wellness goal they had made for themselves. You know what always happened? Without fail, by the end of March, we would be back to our regular numbers. Why? What happened? Simply put, these people had lost their mojo. The idea of being thin or lowering their cholesterol or toning various parts of their bodies had not been enough to keep "work out" at the top of their priority lists. And why not? Because these goals, by themselves, are vain and materialistic. We need more--something deeper and more meaningful--to keep us engaged. With family, home, and career obligations all vying for our time and energy, can we really justify spending so much time exercising if the only goal is to lose weight and look good? And so, our exercise goals fall to the wayside.
However, if we realize these goals are not the true goals, we can regain our motivation. If our true goal in going out for a run or a walk or a hike or a bike ride is to tap into something beyond ourselves--to push our limits and find a source of energy deeper than ourselves--suddenly, our workouts take on a spiritual quality. Human beings naturally search for meaning. We always ask why. If our only answer to the question "Why exercise?" is akin to "Because I want to look good," the question still remains. The answer is simply not good enough. It provides no deep meaning--no worthwhile purpose.
My best runs are the ones during which I completely lose sight of myself and the limits I think I have. When I just run for the joy of running, run simply to celebrate that I can--I feel like I have connected to something larger than myself. I can run. But I don't want to think it is because I am thin and tall and have been conditioning myself for years. Instead, I want to acknowledge that I can run because the source of my ability lies not within me as a physical body, but as a being connected to a large, omnipotent, unlimited source of energy, love, and ability.
If you let your exercise routine have power over you, it will become a sort of slave driver. If you let it determine how you feel and how you think about yourself, you will likely come to despise it. It will become a burden, an obligation. But if you can see your exercise routine as an opportunity to express Life, as a chance to exercise your ability, you will almost always approach it with joy and anticipation. I am working to realize that my running does not determine my fitness, nor does it have the ability to keep me thin or healthy; instead, my running is away for me to express and to celebrate that I am healthy. Do not decide that you are incapable; after all, "We are all capable of more than we do"--and more than we realize. Only by pushing the limits we think constrain us can we realize they were only illusions.
Friday, November 1, 2013
A Simple Snack
For lack of a better (i.e. simpler) name, I like to refer to this snack as Peanut Butter Banana Pumpkin Bread Toast with Honey. If you can think of something just as appropriate--but a lot shorter--let me know.
If you read the name or look at the picture, you can pretty much imagine what goes into the snack, but just in case:
Pepperidge Farm Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Swirl Bread
Natural Peanut Butter
Local Honey
Banana Slices
To enjoy, simply toast as many slices of pumpkin bread as you wish (I was pretty full after two), spread as much peanut butter as desired onto each piece, top with banana slices, and drizzle with honey. Voila! You easily and quickly concocted a snack that will not only fill you up, but also provide you with foods from multiple food groups: carbohydrates, proteins, and fruits.
If you read the name or look at the picture, you can pretty much imagine what goes into the snack, but just in case:
Pepperidge Farm Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Swirl Bread
Natural Peanut Butter
Local Honey
Banana Slices
To enjoy, simply toast as many slices of pumpkin bread as you wish (I was pretty full after two), spread as much peanut butter as desired onto each piece, top with banana slices, and drizzle with honey. Voila! You easily and quickly concocted a snack that will not only fill you up, but also provide you with foods from multiple food groups: carbohydrates, proteins, and fruits.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Got Granite? How to Clean Granite Counter Tops
While I can't take credit for this concoction (I learned about it from my sister, who learned about it from her mother-in-law), I can share it.
Granite counter tops are one of today's most popular kitchen updates/options, but if they are not sealed properly or on a regular enough basis, they can absorb anything that is spilled on them or used to clean them. The following potion provides a safe and easy way to clean your granite counter tops. You can make it in any amount, just follow the ratios provided below.
Homemade Granite Counter Top Cleaner:
1/3 rubbing alcohol
2/3 water
a few drops of liquid dish soap, such as Dawn
My husband and I recently renovated our kitchen, and the project included--among many other upgrades--replacing our old, faux wood counter tops with brand new granite counter tops. I have been using the above mixture to clean them for the last few months, and not only does it make my kitchen smell nice and clean (a little like a sterile doctor's office, actually), but it also gives my counter tops an unrivaled luster.
Happy homemade cleaning!
Granite counter tops are one of today's most popular kitchen updates/options, but if they are not sealed properly or on a regular enough basis, they can absorb anything that is spilled on them or used to clean them. The following potion provides a safe and easy way to clean your granite counter tops. You can make it in any amount, just follow the ratios provided below.
Homemade Granite Counter Top Cleaner:
1/3 rubbing alcohol
2/3 water
a few drops of liquid dish soap, such as Dawn
My husband and I recently renovated our kitchen, and the project included--among many other upgrades--replacing our old, faux wood counter tops with brand new granite counter tops. I have been using the above mixture to clean them for the last few months, and not only does it make my kitchen smell nice and clean (a little like a sterile doctor's office, actually), but it also gives my counter tops an unrivaled luster.
Happy homemade cleaning!
Monday, October 21, 2013
Tropical Orange Juice and Candy Bar Chocolate Milk
So, I really wanted to title this post "Almond Joy and Mounds Chocolate Milk," but I was afraid I would be violating some sort of copyright or trademark law, so I refrained.
Anyway, a stroke (a couple strokes, actually) of genius hit me today.
You see, I learned something yesterday: I do not like coconut water. And this is really a shame, because I wanted to like coconut water. First of all, I expected to like it. I like coconut macaroons. I like Almond Joy bars. I like Mounds bars. I like coconut cream pie. Why wouldn't I like coconut water? But I don't. Maybe it has something to do with the pure coconut flavor in liquid form (or the fact that all those other coconut-containing foods are desserts...); I don't know.
Regardless, after I finished the Runner's World Half-Marathon yesterday, I received a free small container of Zico Coconut Water, and even though I discovered I don't like it, not only do I not want to waste it-- but I also want to use it and benefit from it.
Coconut water is very good for you. Just the little 11.2-ounce container I have boasts 20% of the daily recommended value for potassium. It also contains some calcium and magnesium. I have read about its many benefits in a few different fitness and running magazines.
So, today, I got creative and found a few ways to use my coconut water. Here they are:
1. At breakfast, add some coconut water (the amount is up to you) to your orange juice. This morning, I added some coconut water to my Simply Orange with Banana orange juice and it tasted phenomenal! Tomorrow, I'm going to add it to my Simply Orange with Pineapple.
2. Add coconut water to your store bought chocolate milk. I just tried this concoction a few minuste ago and it was delicious. It was like drinking a Mounds Bar. It was also the flavor sensation that inspired this post.
3. If you want to taste an Almond Joy Bar in liquid form, try adding coconut water to your chocolate almond milk. (I must admit that I have not yet been adventurous enough to try this myself, as I only recently was able to convince myself to try almond milk, and I still don't drink it yet. I just use it on my cereal sometimes.)
Enjoy!
Anyway, a stroke (a couple strokes, actually) of genius hit me today.
You see, I learned something yesterday: I do not like coconut water. And this is really a shame, because I wanted to like coconut water. First of all, I expected to like it. I like coconut macaroons. I like Almond Joy bars. I like Mounds bars. I like coconut cream pie. Why wouldn't I like coconut water? But I don't. Maybe it has something to do with the pure coconut flavor in liquid form (or the fact that all those other coconut-containing foods are desserts...); I don't know.
Regardless, after I finished the Runner's World Half-Marathon yesterday, I received a free small container of Zico Coconut Water, and even though I discovered I don't like it, not only do I not want to waste it-- but I also want to use it and benefit from it.
Coconut water is very good for you. Just the little 11.2-ounce container I have boasts 20% of the daily recommended value for potassium. It also contains some calcium and magnesium. I have read about its many benefits in a few different fitness and running magazines.
So, today, I got creative and found a few ways to use my coconut water. Here they are:
1. At breakfast, add some coconut water (the amount is up to you) to your orange juice. This morning, I added some coconut water to my Simply Orange with Banana orange juice and it tasted phenomenal! Tomorrow, I'm going to add it to my Simply Orange with Pineapple.
2. Add coconut water to your store bought chocolate milk. I just tried this concoction a few minuste ago and it was delicious. It was like drinking a Mounds Bar. It was also the flavor sensation that inspired this post.
3. If you want to taste an Almond Joy Bar in liquid form, try adding coconut water to your chocolate almond milk. (I must admit that I have not yet been adventurous enough to try this myself, as I only recently was able to convince myself to try almond milk, and I still don't drink it yet. I just use it on my cereal sometimes.)
Enjoy!
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