Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Reason, Season or Lifetime

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.
When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually
to meet a need you have expressed.
They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide
you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually.
They may seem like a godsend and they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be.
Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time,
this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.
Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.
Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our
need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because
your turn has come to share, grow or learn.
They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Be lieve it, it is real. But only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things
you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have
learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

2 MORE SLEEPS...

Until SUN, SAND and FUN in FLORIDAD WITH DA GIRLS! Cannot wait!! Daytona Beach here we come...

V.

Monday, April 21, 2008

The Cultural Creators hit up Beunos Aires!


Lookie Lookie-Those amazing cultural creators, Ash and Amanda from the Society have written about their wonderous adventures in Beunos Aires...Check it out! Flare.com: TRAVEL CLUB


V.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

My Heart


My heart is large and has so much love to give. Sometimes it hurts for good reasons but other times bad. Last week, my heart felt lost and Sam helped me, help my heart, find its way...
Last week was quite a week! Yes, my friends not only was I busier then a bee but I was full of contemplation. Life hit me kinda hard and ya know what, with a wee bit of help I hit right back! OK, OK, when I say a wee bit of help I really mean a whole lot of help!
I will not get into the gritty details of the "hard" part. But I will tell you the particular details which allowed me to hit life right back.
On Monday evening, Sam and I had a discussion where I let him into my head and my heart. Sam, the wonderful person that he is, listened with a great deal of consideration. The following day he set a plan in motion that proved to turn everything upside down. Sam had contacted some special people in my life and asked them to write me a note telling me why they love me. That evening he arrived home with a beautiful card explaining his thoughts. He then handed me an envelope full of letters. Each letter brought tears to my eyes but filled my heart so FULL with love. These letters began to put things into perspective. How lucky I was to have these wonderful people in my life! These wonderful people whom love me whole heartily and care for me so deeply. Moreover, how lucky I am to have Sam in my life-this individual whom loves me so much and cares for me so deeply he would go to all lengths to make me feel so loved. The last thing he gave me was a lovely wrapped box. within this box I found a long necklace with a heart at the bottom. Sam went on to explain what the heart represented. The left side represented my family, the right side represented my friends and the bottom represented him.
It truly was the kindest and most thoughtful thing anyone had ever done for me. It was what I needed to get over that hump and to literally put things into perspective. It seems that the simplest things warm the heart the most.
To those whom took a moment from their busy day to look within their heart and write me a message-Thank you! Your words not only got me through last week but will continue to help me get through any and all challenges that come my way.
And to Sam-there are truly no words to Thank you enough. I love you and will never forget the actions and remarkable thoughts that were put into the most special place, my heart.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!-you know who you are...

V xoxo-

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Chocolate Milk

Sometime ago I read that Chocolate Milk is a better recovery drink then Gatorade. Today after running my longest run yet, I decided to put this advice to the test. We shall see...
Here is an article discussing the topic:

Need to stay hydrated? Need your sweets? Did you know that milk is 90% water? It’s time to make chocolate milk your next sport drink!
Sport nutritionists suggest to fuel your body with carbohydrates when you are an endurance athlete to help replenish muscle glycogen. Most atheltes turn to sport drinks like Gatorade. Yet, what you might not know is that chocolate milk has similar carbohydrate content to many of the leading sport drinks. In fact, in a study done at Indiana University in Bloomington, researchers found that when cyclists refueled with lowfat chocolate milk after pedaling to exhaustion, they biked longer and harder four hours later compared to the athletes who drank a sport drink, concluding that chocolate milk is an effective recovery aid following an exhausting exercise.
Here are some more reasons to replace sport drinks with chocolate milk:
Milk helps strengthens bones, and promotes a healthy weight.
The protein in the milk contains all of the essential amino acids for building or maintaining a lead body mass.
Milk provides you with the essential electrolytes.
Similar to a banana, milk as 10 times more potassium than most sport drinks.
A single glass of milk gives you 20% of the phosphorus needed each day, helping to strengthen your bones and generate energy in your cells.
Milk contains vitamins such as B-12, niacin and riboflavin, which are crucial in converting food to energy to fuel your muscles.
Bottoms up! :)

[Thank you, THE FINAL SPRINT!!]
Interesting. I will let you know how my recovery with CM goes...

V.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

MISTAKES

Maybe mistakes are what make our fate... without them what would shape our lives? Maybe if we had never veered off course we wouldn't fall in love, have babies, or be who we are. After all, things change, so do cities, people come into your life and they go. But it's comforting to know that the ones you love are always in your heart...and if you're very lucky, a plane ride away” - Carrie, Sex and the City

Magnificent Moby on THE HOUR with STROMBO!











I am going to be honest, [like I am ever not...Anyway...]I like the HOUR. I like George Stroumbolopoulous aka STROMBO. I think he rocks. The Hour is a great show, with great guests and great interviews. I know there are a lot of HOUR & STROMBO haters but I am just not one of them. I have actually had the opportunity to meet Strombo and he was actually quite nice. And he is my neighbor-so there.
So most nights my weekly bed time is 11 pm sharp. At which time, I cozy into my fluffy bed and of course, tune into channel 6, the CBC, to catch my daily dose of the hour. George and his quirky writers always open with some weird off the wall joke about whom is on the show or something that has made the news that day/week. I always laugh out loud. Lately The hour has been graced by some killer guests. Last week Strombo interviewed John Cusak-COOL DUDE as well as the owner/creator of Lulu Lemon-another COOL DUDE. But last night Moby aka Richard Melville Hall graced the Hour's stage. I have never heard or seen a Moby interview. I have only had the awesome op. to hear his music. Let me tell you...MOBY IS a COOL ASS DUDE. He blew me away. I was mesmerized. He is nerdy and awkward but extremely intelligent and aware. He has an interesting history and upbringing furthermore some fascinating stories to tell. Moby... is a rarity in the electronic music world. He started in the early 80's playing with a hardcore punk band - 'The Vatican Commandoes.' And he learned to play the piano and drums - skills that would come in handy as a one man production machine. In the mid 1980s, Moby switched to DJ'ing, and by 1990, he released his first single, 'Mobility.' The b-side to that was a song called 'Go' and went straight to the top 10 in the UK. Then in 1999, Moby hit it big, with his album 'Play.' How big? Try 9 million sold, plus, it became the first album to have all of its songs commercially licensed.












But Moby's not just about the music. He's used his success to fight for animal rights, the environment, and lesser known evils, like road safety in Africa. Plus, he's still making music. His latest CD - called 'Last Night' - comes out in April.

Moby grew up extremely poor in one of the richest areas in the US in a single parent household. He made "GO" in the bedroom of his Brooklyn apartment. He is a smashing success but somehow has kept his cool and not forgotten whom he is or where he comes from.
I like Moby. And I like George. Maybe they are assholes. But I somehow see through that. I see something bigger and better. Maybe that is a terrible quality but I like to think it is a valuable one.
I will continue tuning in. Whatever your thoughts maybe on George I suggest you give him a try. I promise you, Strombo does not disappoint.

To catch the entire MOBY interview on the Hour click the link:
MOBY INTERVIEW on THE HOUR

V.

The Cultural Curators Make Porter Mag!

This morning I received an awesome email from Ashleigh, co-founder of the Society!, Her and Amanda were featured in THE PORTER INFLIGHT MAGAZINE! Great Spread and even better article! Way to go Ladies! Check it out:


You go girls!

For more information: THE SOCIETY TORONTO

V. xo

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Cold and Flu


I have a cold. Perhaps even the flu. And the first thing out of everyones mouth is..."you are pushing yourself too hard" or "You are doing too much". Maybe I am. This past weekend I had a roaring night on Friday filled with fun, friends and probably too many beverages. Saturday morning came fast with a work obligation at 9am. Furthermore, the rest of Saturday was filled with shooting around the city running errands and taking in the lovely day. After a full day, I hustled home to get pretty for a vissy with Dan and Chris then it was off to the Raunchy Review. Luckily, I had made a deal with myself that I would be home in bed by 11pm as I had a 29K run the following morning. I did pretty well and was in bed by 11:18pm..yay me!
Sunday, 7:30am, came more quickly then I thought even with that awesome Saturday night bed time. I was fueled, hydrated and on my bike by 8:05am, headed to The Running Room for my weekly long run. After the run, off to brunch I went where I took in french toast, bacon and even some of Chris' hashbrowns-yummm! And that my friends is when it all started going down hill. Sunday was gorge-even more delightful then Saturday but all I could think about or even stomach was my big, fluffy, king sized bed. So home I went where slumber took over all control of any action. I slept deeply for 2 hours. When I awoke, BOOM, there it was, on me, like a bad rash from a cheap suit, a cold. A crappy, head throbbin, throat soaring, yucky, cold. And that is when the comments began.
Today I came across a very interesting article about Running and the common cold. It states that 30 to 75 minutes of moderate activity does in fact boost the immune system-good news. BUT when going over 75 minutes you are asking a lot of your body and actually your immunity to bacteria and virus' decreases-BAD news. The article suggests boosting your carbs, increasing your supplements, washing your hands, eating properly and getting enough sleep.
Yes, perhaps I am asking my body of too much and Yes, I will it dial down some...But I have followed the rules to an extent and I am about to b,e even more diligent. I learn the hard way-always have, always will. Ask my Dad! Check out the article (click on the title)...OUTRUN THE COMMON COLD
Hopefully I will awake tomorrow feeling fresh, well and Cold-less!

V.

Lip Smacking Whole Food Smothie Infusion


Are you looking for a healthy energy boost? Well my friends wait until you hear about my latest healthy food obsession... It is VEGA Whole Food Smoothie Infusion. This product is a powder which you add to a smoothie or any foods to give you a lift. It is full of protein, fiber, omega 3 and greens. And friends, it tastes pretty good!
Ingredients include the following plant based whole foods: Yellow pea protein, organic hemp protein, organic sprouted flax seeds, organic brown rice protein, organic green food blend (spirulina, organic wheat grass, organic alfalfa grass, organic barley grass, organic spinach, organic sprouted broccoli, organic kale, organic kelp, organic dulse), inulin (from chicory root), natural flavors, xanthan gum. This lip smacking product was formulated by Brendan Brazier, vegan, professional Ironman triathlete and bestselling author on performance nutrition. Vega Smoothie Infusion is power-packed with raw, organic super foods.
My advice...Give it a try. You will not be dissapointed!

V.

Monday, April 7, 2008

YOGA


Ok who would have ever thought that I, ME, Ving, would be into yoga!!?? well it has happened! I am into it. 3 Weeks deep and loving it. It has fit perfectly into my training schedule. On Monday night I do a 2 hour HATHA class-which ends with 20 minutes of DEEP Meditation. This has worked perfect as a post long run day work out. The Hatha class manages to realign any or all of my kinks whether it be in my legs, core or upper body. Afterwards, I fall deeply into sleep and am ready for all that comes at me the coming week.
On Friday night I do a Vinyasa class which definitely steps it up a notch. This 2 hour class helps deeply strengthen my legs, core and arms. While stretching me out at the same time. It is a brilliant way to get some cross training before the week is over. On Saturday I always seem to feel the work and I love it. Not only do I feel stronger and well balanced, the vinyasa class is relaxing in its own right.
Yoga has made me feel better and has been such an amazing addition to my running!
A shout out is in order to CORE STUDIO! CORE Yoga & Pilates Studio is located at 553 Queen Street West, 3rd floor Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2B6. Check them out online! www.corestudio.ca Try a class! You will not be disappointed!

V.

Sunday, April 6, 2008

The Secret to Happiness

Have you found the secret to TRUE Happiness?

According to Robin Sharma, the secret of happiness is simple...find out what you truly love to do and then direct all of your energy towards doing it. If you studied the happiest, healthiest, most satisfied people of our world, you will see that each and every one of them has found their passion in life, and then spent their days pursuing it. This calling is almost always one that, in some way, serves others. Once you are concentrating your mental power and energy on a pursuit that you love, abundance flows into your life, and all of your desires are fulfilled with ease and grace.I believe the great Indian Philosopher, Patanjali said it best:
When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all of your thoughts break their bonds: your mind transcends limitations, your conciousness expands in every direction and you find yourself in a new, great and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talent become alive and you discover yourself to be a greater person than you ever dreamed yourself to be.

Definitely an interesting way at looking at things, don't you think?

V.

My Girlfriends are my Sisters!

Ok, I am not going to lie...I found this passage on someone else's blog. Though I am not big on copying other peoples blogs-I just could not resist because of how appropriate this passage truly was. Though I was not blessed with any genetic sisters, I have many ladies in my life that might as well be. I have such an incredible amount of wonderous and magical friends whom truly count as sisters. I love and respect all of them with every inch of my heart. I thank my lucky stars regularly for everything they have and continue to bring to my life. Each and everyone of them are unique and offer more then they even realize. To all of my wonderful girlfriends, THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU! I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!

A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter 'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.' 'Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women...your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.' What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!' But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life.
After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned:
Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT.........Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach. When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end. Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out. Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters,daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life! The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.


V. xo

Friday, April 4, 2008

Post Long Run Survival


With the Marathon just around the corner, training has me running long ass runs on Sundays. And when I say long ass I mean runs between 20-30 km. Though I have been feeling great during the runs, post run their are tips that need to be followed as to be able to get the training in during the week...[THANK YOU RUNNERS WORLD!]
Hydrate: Drink eight to 16 ounces of sports drink, which replenishes electrolytes and minerals lost through sweat.
Change: Your body needs to cool down; putting on dry clothes (even just a fresh top) will help your body regulate its temperature.
Reload: Consume a mix of carbs and protein within 15 minutes after a run to jumpstart muscle recovery. Our personal favorite: hemp protein powder mixed in juice.
Shower: Warm water relaxes the nervous system and helps your body readjust its temperature.
Stretch: Doing our flexibility routine (runnersworld.com/whartons) within an hour of ending a run boosts circulation, which aids recovery.
Refuel, again: Once your stomach has settled, eat a meal with a balance of carbs and protein to replace your glycogen (energy) stores and rebuild damaged muscle. Our postrun staple is quinoa, a whole grain high in protein.
Get horizontal: Naps are ideal, but you'll benefit from even a 15- to 30-minute break with your feet up (promotes circulation, relaxes heart rate).
Cool down: In the evening, soak in a cool or cold bath for 10 minutes to aid muscle recovery and prevent soreness the next day.
Self-massage: A sports massage can be too intense post-long run; kneading your own muscles helps you regulate your comfort level.
And here are some of my own "survival items":
Epsom Salts
Ice Cold Water on legs
WATER
GATORADE
Sleep
Listening to the Body
Bananas
Massage Chair
Compression Stockings
YOGA


V.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

See ya Tomorrow!

This is one for the memory books...[Esp. for Katie Kate and Banan]

"I'll see you tomorrow,
Same time and Same place,
I'll see your face tomorrow,
Same time and Same place,
Though this moment has ended I just have to say,
I'll see you tomorrow, Same time and Same place.

Goodbye,
Goodbye,
Goodbye my Sweet Friend,
Can't wait to see you, again!"

V. xo

The Monk who Sold his Ferrari

I have had the most terrible time getting into books these days. I tried to get into why French women don't get Fat or whatever it is called. Then I tried to get into the Memory Keeper's Daughter. Neither of them "got me". But tonight I found a book that lit my reading fire...THE MONK WHO SOLD HIS FERRARI. It is a fable about fulfilling your dreams and reaching your destiny. I began reading it in my bi weekly epsom salt bath and I continued reading it until the bath was almost cold! So far so good. I am so glad to be able to find a book that has rekindled my joy for reading...
AMAZON.COM said the following:Everyone loves a good fable, and this is certainly one. The protagonist is Julian Mantle, a high-profile attorney with a whacked-out schedule and a shameful set of spiritual priorities. Of course it takes a crisis (heart attack) to give Mantle pause. And pause he does--suddenly selling all his beloved possessions to trek India in pursuit of a meaningful existence. The Himalayan gurus along the way give simple advice, such as, "What lies behind you and what lies before you is nothing compared to what lies within you." Yet it is easy to forgive the story's simplicity because each kernel of wisdom is framed to address the persistent angst of Western white-collar professionals.-Gail Hudson

I cannot wait to keep reading!

V.

101 Year Old Marathoner!?

No, Really!!

March 5th
LONDON - Already Britain’s oldest employee, 101-year-old Buster Martin now aims to become the world’s oldest marathon runner by completing the London Marathon and celebrating with a pint of beer and a cigarette.

Sprightly and bearded, he completed a half marathon at the weekend in five hours 13 minutes. The former Army physical training instructor works three days a week for a London plumbing firm and says he has trained for the April 13th race in his spare time.

“I’ve said I’ll attempt it,” he told Reuters by telephone from his workplace at Pimlico Plumbers. “I haven’t said I’ll complete it. If I do make it, all the better. I hadn’t thought of doing it before but someone asked me and the money goes to charity so why not?”

His sponsorship money will go to the Rhys Daniels Trust, which provides temporary accommodation for families of patients in specialist children’s hospitals.

Martin, who had 17 children and returned to work at the age of 99 saying he was bored after two years of retirement, would beat the previous record for world’s oldest marathon runner by eight years.

“If I finish, I’ll do what I always do and have a pint and a fag,” he said. “People ask what is my secret but I haven’t got one. They say fags and booze are bad for you—but I’m still here, aren’t I?”


Truly a remarkable story, non? I HAD to share...[thanks CG]

V.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

29 Healthiest Foods on the Planet!

As I was searching the internet this evening for a list of "Good Fats" specifically for Endurance athletes, I came across a list of the 29 healthiest foods on the planet...So if you are like me and trying desperately to fill your body with foods that not only taste good but have good effects, you may just find this list helpful...Definitely worth a read!

The 29 Healthiest Foods on the Planet
The following is a "healthy food hot list" consisting of the 29 food that will give you the biggest nutritional bang for you caloric buck, as well as decrease your risk for deadly illnesses like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Along with each description is a suggestion as to how to incorporate these power-foods into your diet.

Fruits
01. Apricots
The Power: Beta-carotene, which helps prevent free-radical damage and protect the eyes. The body also turns beta-carotene into vitamin A, which may help ward off some cancers, especially of the skin. One apricot has 17 calories, 0 fat, 1 gram of fiber. Snacks on them dried, or if you prefer fresh, buy when still firm; once they soften, they lose nutrients.

02. Avocados
The Power: Oleic acid, an unsaturated fat that helps lower overall cholesterol and raise levels of HDL, plus a good dose of fiber. One slice has 81 calories, 8 grams of fat and 3 grams of fiber. Try a few slices instead of mayonnaise to dress up your next burger.

03. Raspberries
The Power: Ellagic acid, which helps stall cancer-cell growth. These berries are also packed with vitamin C and are high in fiber, which helps prevent high cholesterol and heart disease. A cup has only 60 calories, 1 gram of fat and 8 grams of fiber. Top plain low-fat yogurt or oatmeal (another high fiber food) with fresh berries.

05. Cantaloupe
The Power: Vitamin C (117mg in half a melon, almost twice the recommended daily dose) and beta-carotene - both powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from free-radical damage. Plus, half a melon has 853mg of potassium - almost twice as much as a banana, which helps lower blood pressure. Half a melon has 97 calories, 1 gram of fat and 2 grams of fiber. Cut into cubes and freeze, then blend into an icy smoothie.

06. Cranberry Juice
The Power: Helps fight bladder infections by preventing harmful bacteria from growing. A cup has 144 calories, 0 grams of fat and 0 fiber. Buy 100 percent juice concentrate and use it to spice up your daily H20 without adding sugar.

07. Tomato
The Power: Lycopene, one of the strongest carotenoids, acts as an antioxidant. Research shows that tomatoes may cut the risk of bladder, stomach and colon cancers in half if eaten daily. A tomato has 26 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Drizzle fresh slices with olive oil, because lycopene is best absorbed when eaten with a little fat.

08. Raisins
The Power: These little gems are a great source of iron, which helps the blood transport oxygen and which many women are short on. A half-cup has 218 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Sprinkle raisins on your morning oatmeal or bran cereal - women, consider this especially during your period.

09. Figs
The Power: A good source of potassium and fiber, figs also contain vitamin B6, which is responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention. The Pill depletes B6, so if you use this method of birth control, make sure to get extra B6 in your diet. One fig has 37 to 48 calories, 0 fat and 2 grams of fiber. (Cookie lovers - fig bars have around 56 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber per cookie). Fresh figs are delicious simmered alongside a pork tenderloin and the dried variety make a great portable gym snack.

10. Lemons/Limes
The Power: Limonene, furocoumarins and vitamin C, all of which help prevent cancer. A wedge has 2 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Buy a few of each and squeeze over salads, fish, beans and vegetables for fat free flavor. See also: Beneficial Bytes: Lemons and Limes.

Vegetables
11. Onions
The Power: Quercetin is one of the most powerful flavonoids (natural plant antioxidants). Studies show it helps protect against cancer. A cup (chopped) has 61 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Chop onions for the maximum phytonutrient boost, or if you hate to cry, roast them with a little olive oil and serve with rice or other vegetables.

12. Artichokes
The Power: These odd-looking vegetables contain silymarin, an antioxidant that helps prevent skin cancer, plus fiber to help control cholesterol. One medium artichoke has 60 calories, 0 fat and 7 grams of fiber. Steam over boiling water for 30 to 40 minutes. Squeeze lemon juice on top, then pluck the leaves off with your fingers and use your teeth to scrape off the rich-tasting skin. When you get to the heart, you have found the best part!

13. Ginger
The Power: Gingerols may help reduce queasiness; other compounds may help ward off migraines and arthritis pain by blocking inflammation-causing prostaglandins. A teaspoon of fresh gingerroot has only 1 calorie, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Peel the tough brown skin and slice or grate into a stir-fry.

14. Broccoli
The Power: Indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane, which help protect against breast cancer. Broccoli also has lots of vitamin C and beta-carotene. One cup (chopped) has 25 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Don't overcook broccoli - instead, microwave or steam lightly to preserve phytonutrients. Squeeze fresh lemon on top for a zesty and taste, added nutrients and some vitamin C.

15. Spinach
The Power: Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that help fend off macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in older people. Plus, studies show this green fountain of youth may help reverse some signs of aging. One cup has 7 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Add raw leaves to a salad or sauté with a little olive oil and garlic.

16. Bok Choy (Chinese cabbage)
The Power: Brassinin, which some research suggests may help prevent breast tumors, plus indoles and isothiocyanates, which lower levels of estrogen, make this vegetable a double-barreled weapon against breast cancer. A cup will also give you 158mg of calcium (16 percent of your daily recommended requirement) to help beat osteoporosis. A cup (cooked) has 20 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Find it in your grocer's produce section or an Asian market. Slice the greens and juicy white stalks, then saute like spinach or toss into a stir-fry just before serving.

17. Squash (Butternut, Pumpkin, Acorn)
The Power: Winter squash has huge amounts of vitamin C and beta-carotene, which may help protect against endometrial cancer. One cup (cooked) has 80 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Cut on in half, scoop out the seeds and bake or microwave until soft, then dust with cinnamon.

18. Watercress and Arugula
The Power: Phenethyl isothiocyanate, which, along with beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, may help keep cancer cells at bay. One cup has around 4 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Do not cook these leafy greens; instead, use them to garnish a sandwich or add a pungent, peppery taste to salad.

19. Garlic
The Power: The sulfur compounds that give garlic its pungent flavor can also lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, lower blood pressure and even reduce your risk of stomach and colon cancer. A clove has 4 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Bake a whole head for 15 to 20 minutes, until soft and sweet and spread on bread instead of butter.

Grains, Beans and Nuts
20. Quinoa
The Power: A half cup of cooked quinoa has 5 grams of protein, more than any other grain, plus iron, riboflavin and magnesium. A half-cup has 318 calories, 5 grams of fat and 5 grams of fiber. Add to soup for a protein boost. Rinse first, or it will taste bitter.

21. Wheat Germ
The Power: A tablespoon gives you about 7 percent of your daily magnesium, which helps prevent muscle cramps; it is also a good source of vitamin E. One tablespoon has 27 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber. Sprinkle some over yogurt, fruit or cereal.

22. Lentils
The Power: Isoflavones, which may inhibit estrogen-promoted breast cancers, plus fiber for heart health and an impressive 9 grams of protein per half cup. A half-cup (cooked) has 115 calories, 0 fat and 8 grams of fiber. Isoflavones hold up through processing, so buy lentils canned, dried or already in soup. Take them to work, and you will have a protein packed lunch.

23. Peanuts
The Power: Studies show that peanuts or other nuts (which contain mostly unsaturated "good" fat) can lower your heart-disease risk by over 20 percent. One ounce has 166 calories, 14 grams of fat and 2 grams of fiber. Keep a packet in your briefcase, gym bag or purse for a protein-packed post-workout nosh or an afternoon pick me up that will satisfy you until supper, or chop a few into a stir-fry for a Thai accent. See also: The Nut Case

24. Pinto Beans
The Power: A half cup has more than 25 percent of your daily requirement of folate, which helps protect against heart disease and reduces the risk of birth defects. A half-cup (canned) has 103 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Drain a can, rinse and toss into a pot of vegetarian chili.

25. The Power: Bacteria in active-culture yogurt helps prevent yeast infections; calcium strengthens bones. A cup has 155 calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 grams of fiber. Get the plain kind and mix in your own fruit to keep calories and sugar down. If you are lactose intolerant, never fear -- yogurt should not bother your tummy.

26. Skim Milk
The Power: Riboflavin (a.k.a. vitamin B2) is important for good vision and along with vitamin A might help improve eczema and allergies. Plus, you get calcium and vitamin D, too. One cup has 86 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. If you are used to high fat milk, don't go cold turkey; instead, mix the two together at first. Trust this fact: In a week or two you won't miss it!

Seafood
27. Shellfish (Clams, Mussels)
The Power: Vitamin B12 to support nerve and brain function, plus iron and hard-to-get minerals like magnesium and potassium. Three ounces has 126 to 146 calories, 2 to 4 grams of fat and 0 fiber. Try a bowl of tomato-based (and low fat) Manhattan clam chowder.

28. Salmon
The Power: Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the risk of cardiac disease. A 3-ounce portion (cooked) has 127 calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 fiber. Brush fillets with ginger-soy marinade and grill or broil until fish flakes easily with a fork.

29. Crab
The Power: A great source of vitamin B12 and immunity-boosting zinc. A 3-ounce portion has 84 calories, 1 gram of fat, 0 fiber. The "crab" in sushi is usually made from fish; buy it canned instead and make your own crab cakes.

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Toodle Loo March...Aloha April!

Well I am a little slow this month on saying my hellos and goodbyes to the month going and the month coming...But better late then never, right?
March was an ab. fab. fun filled month! I ran my first ever half marathon under my goal time! [yay me!]Which led to the plotting and commencement of my next goal adventure: training and completing the Full Marathon in a time of 3 hours and 40 minutes to qualify for Boston. Training=so far so good. March was a full month which included so many fun and exciting happenings. We enjoyed a fun filled mardi gras weekend in eville. We enjoyed many yummy dinners with some absolutely amazing friends. We have attended a 30th Birthday party, enjoyed a long easter weekend, went to THE Rom Prom, had some great family time, AND [of course...] enjoyed many days, lunches, dinners, parties, etc etc, filled with A TON of laughter and fun! I have taken up YOGA at an awesome studio right around the corner [yay me x 2] called CORE. March was a great month. But every great thing must come to an end. Soooo toodle loo March AND ALOHA APRIL!! I am excited for April because April in my mind means Spring or close enough! April showers bring May flowers. Spring is in the air which brings a spring to my step. In the coming month I have so much to look forward to. More parties like-the society's latest event-THE RAUNCHIE REVIEW-this Saturday. More LOOOOONG ass runs. Busy times at work. More Yoga. More fun with friends. A girls Poker night. A girls long weekend in Florida. Hopefully a hair cut. Book Club fun. More laughter. More smiles. More awesome memories...
Bring it on April...I cannot wait!

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RICH BRIDE POOR BRIDE: Don't Miss Season 3!



Buck Productions Announces the 3rd Season Launch of the Hit Television Series
Rich Bride Poor Bride Audiences rave about it, fans have been craving it and now the wait is over...the all new season of Rich Bride Poor Bride premieres Thursday April 10, 2008 at 8:00PM on SliceTM (a CanWest network).
The premiere episode features Mel & Len, a strong-headed pair with very different
visions for their day. Mel wants simplicity, Len- an all out bash! Will Wedding Planner Angelique Sobschak be able to get these two to read from the same page? Or will Mel lose her place before the big day?
Coming up this season, the series adds two new wedding planners to its roaster,
a couple who thinks image is everything, and a bride whose sister has a hard time
coming to terms with the fact that she’s not the one getting married!
Executive Producer/Director Sean Buckley says “We are so proud of the superior
work coming out of Buck and the direction we’re headed in.” He goes on to say,
“Rich Bride Poor Bride has soared to new heights and we’re so excited about the
many other top notch properties coming out of our camp.”
Buck Productions, creator of the critically acclaimed television series, is also proud
to announce the wise yet sometimes comical advice of its Wedding Planners can
now be found in Rich Bride Poor Bride: Your Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide
(Wiley & Sons). Available where books are sold, the planner features real couples,
real weddings and helpful tips and tricks for planning your own perfect wedding on
your not so perfect budget.
Catch all new episodes of Rich Bride Poor Bride Thursday nights at 8:00PM only
on SliceTM.




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