I have news for you, women of the world. Research shows women are more likely to be depressed. It’s not enough that women already have to go through uncomfortable monthly cycles and suffer childbirth, but now women have higher chances of being depressed as well! (So not fair!)
At one point, we all feel a little depressed—that’s normal. Life is full of ups and downs so it’s only natural we’ll go through a down times in our lives. It’s when the down time is persistent that it becomes problematic.
Depression is a serious illness and with the holidays coming up, depression will probably increase. Although Christmas is known to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” it is the loneliest for others.
Depression is caused by different factors. Some of these factors are genetics, environmental and psychological.
“There is a risk for developing depression when there is a family history of the illness, indicating that a biological vulnerability may be inherited,” the National Institute of Health said.
A more common cause of depression is the environmental factor, which can range from financial problems, difficult relationship to a major change in life style. Also, those who worry too much, have low self-esteem or feel like they have little control over life are more likely at risk to be depressed.
If you feel sad, have lost interest in pleasure activities or find yourself crying excessively for two weeks or more, you may be in a state of depression. Other symptoms of depression include fatigue, feelings of guilt and hopelessness, change of appetite and thoughts of suicide. Get help now if you are having these symptoms.
Why depression occurs more often in women than men is unclear. However, researchers believe it could be due to hormonal, reproductive and biological factors.
Studies have shown that issues of adolescence are a cause of depression in women. Depression occurs in females as early as age 11 and 13.
“By the age of 15, females are twice as likely to have experienced a major depressive episode as males. This comes at a time in adolescence when roles and expectations change dramatically,” the National Institute of Health said.
“The stresses of adolescence include forming an identity, emerging sexuality, separating from parents, and making decisions for the first time, along with other physical, intellectual, and hormonal changes,” the National Institute of Health said.
Boys are less likely to feel these things because they seem to be built differently and don’t feel the importance of some things girls find critical. (It probably is true that men are from Mars and women are from Venus!)
There is good news, however. Depression can be cured with a variety of treatments. There is antidepressant medication, psychotherapy or both. Deciding on which treatment to go with depends on the level of depression one is experiencing. If thoughts of suicide attempts have occurred, a therapist may be a good option. Consult with a mental health professional before deciding on what treatment to go with.
An easier option is to admit that you have a problem. Talk to someone about what you are going through and don’t be afraid to seek professional help. The sooner you get help, the sooner you’ll be able to go back to being yourself again.
The bad news is depression may reoccur even after successful treatment. Continuing the same dose of treatment usually helps with recurring depression. If not, ask your physician for more options.
You can find the help you need for depression at many places. Look up “mental health” in the phone book or online. If you have any signs of depression, get the help you need and remember that you are not the only one feeling like this.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Flu, Be Gone!
Ladies and gentlemen, the flu season has arrived. Now would be the time to boost your immune system. Free flu shots are available at a variety of places but if you missed it, you’re going to want to keep scrolling down. Seriously, this is going to prevent making the toilet your best friend.
Just in case you’re in denial about having the flu because you hate visiting the doctor’s office, symptoms of the flu consist of a high fever, muscle aches, sore throat, dry cough and nausea. If you have any signs of the flu, please stay away from the public as it is known to be contagious.
The stomach flu is also highly contagious. I think I once caught it just by breathing the same air as someone with the stomach flu! Okay, that might have been an exaggeration but you get the point. When someone has the stomach flu, he or she will literally feel sick to their stomach. The stomach flu, besides from being drunk, is one of the main reasons your toilet becomes your best friend. If you have any signs of the stomach flu, which includes vomiting and diarrhea, stay in bed until you feel better. There is no cure for this virus.
However, there are simple ways to prevent the flu from entering our bodies and making our lives miserable.
First, wash your hands as much as possible. I even recommend becoming anal about it. Germs spread quickly even if you can’t see it. If your job entitles dealing with a lot of people and exchanging money, make sure you have some hand sanitizer close by. Money carries a lot of germs! Can you even imagine how many hands have touched the money you’re now carrying in your wallet? Also, avoid biting on nails. There are a lot of germs that can be infested there.
Maintaining what you consume can also boost your immune system and help prevent the flu. Organic foods, fresh veggies and fruits are great for building a stronger immune system. Taking vitamin C supplements will help in making your immune system stronger as well. Dr. Joseph Brasco from preventheflu.com also recommends trying to avoid starchy foods such as pasta, rice, potatoes and bread to insure “proper blood sugar control.”
Eating mushrooms or anything containing omega-3 fatty acids can enhance your immune system. According to Dr. Brasco, mushrooms have “immunostimulating properties, and can pack a ‘one-two punch’ for increased immunity.” Studies have showed that consuming these products can reduce the chances of getting a disease.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. With work, school and exams, I know it must seem impossible to get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night. However, if you prioritize and manage your time wisely, you will be able to get the amount of rest your body needs. Proper sleep is the best cure to getting better because it’s free!
Take the time to relax. Stress can weaken the immune system. If you feel your brain is on overdrive, give yourself a few minutes to take some deep breaths. Roll your shoulders and lean your head back to relieve the tension in your neck.
Regular exercise can help prevent from getting the flu. Exercising keeps your body and mind active and healthy therefore increases the strength of your immune system.
On this note, keep yourself safe, healthy and flu-free. Kick your immune system up a notch, not only to prevent the flu but to live a longer and healthier life.
Just in case you’re in denial about having the flu because you hate visiting the doctor’s office, symptoms of the flu consist of a high fever, muscle aches, sore throat, dry cough and nausea. If you have any signs of the flu, please stay away from the public as it is known to be contagious.
The stomach flu is also highly contagious. I think I once caught it just by breathing the same air as someone with the stomach flu! Okay, that might have been an exaggeration but you get the point. When someone has the stomach flu, he or she will literally feel sick to their stomach. The stomach flu, besides from being drunk, is one of the main reasons your toilet becomes your best friend. If you have any signs of the stomach flu, which includes vomiting and diarrhea, stay in bed until you feel better. There is no cure for this virus.
However, there are simple ways to prevent the flu from entering our bodies and making our lives miserable.
First, wash your hands as much as possible. I even recommend becoming anal about it. Germs spread quickly even if you can’t see it. If your job entitles dealing with a lot of people and exchanging money, make sure you have some hand sanitizer close by. Money carries a lot of germs! Can you even imagine how many hands have touched the money you’re now carrying in your wallet? Also, avoid biting on nails. There are a lot of germs that can be infested there.
Maintaining what you consume can also boost your immune system and help prevent the flu. Organic foods, fresh veggies and fruits are great for building a stronger immune system. Taking vitamin C supplements will help in making your immune system stronger as well. Dr. Joseph Brasco from preventheflu.com also recommends trying to avoid starchy foods such as pasta, rice, potatoes and bread to insure “proper blood sugar control.”
Eating mushrooms or anything containing omega-3 fatty acids can enhance your immune system. According to Dr. Brasco, mushrooms have “immunostimulating properties, and can pack a ‘one-two punch’ for increased immunity.” Studies have showed that consuming these products can reduce the chances of getting a disease.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. With work, school and exams, I know it must seem impossible to get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night. However, if you prioritize and manage your time wisely, you will be able to get the amount of rest your body needs. Proper sleep is the best cure to getting better because it’s free!
Take the time to relax. Stress can weaken the immune system. If you feel your brain is on overdrive, give yourself a few minutes to take some deep breaths. Roll your shoulders and lean your head back to relieve the tension in your neck.
Regular exercise can help prevent from getting the flu. Exercising keeps your body and mind active and healthy therefore increases the strength of your immune system.
On this note, keep yourself safe, healthy and flu-free. Kick your immune system up a notch, not only to prevent the flu but to live a longer and healthier life.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Take Your Finals With a Smile
With the year nearing to an end, most students are either starting to lack or get stressed out about the upcoming final exams. Although I can’t help with the lacking, there are great tips on how to stay stress-free.
Your mothers probably used to tell you not to frown or your face will stay that way. Guess what? They weren’t kidding. Stress tends to cause frowns. These lines will start to be visible eventually. Of course, with the invention of botox wrinkles can be temporarily ironed out but you also might be temporarily without any facial expression. Which is scarier?
Breathing easy is going to help you let go of some stress. After cramming all of that information from your text book that you had a whole semester to do but decided to do last minute, you’re going to need a breather.
Lie down on the floor with your back flat. Put one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. Take a deep, slow breath in.
“Lying on the floor at first when you practice is important, because if you stand up, you’re more likely to take a deep breath by doing an exaggerated chest extension, rather than letting it fill up naturally,” Dr. Oz, a mind a body doctor who has been on the Oprah Winfrey Show, said.
Fill up your lungs and then slowly exhale. Count to seven while you’re exhaling. Dr. Oz recommends ten deep breaths in the morning and ten deep breaths at night to help relieve stress. (Smoking doesn’t count as taking in deep breaths!)
Another easy way to relieve stress is by taking the cork screw of a wine bottle and placing it vertically between your front teeth. This action will help loosen the tension in your jaw. You may not notice but when you’re stressed or frustrated, your jaw tends to tighten up. By relieving the tension in your jaws, you relieve tension from your neck and head which will help you to relax and be less stressed.
Journaling is a great way to relieve stress. By keeping a daily journal or diary, one can express thoughts and emotions more clearly. Many have also found that writing down problems makes it easier to find a solution because it helps process the information and release emotions. However, for it to be most helpful, you should write in detail about your feelings as if you are discussing them with a therapist.
One of the best cures for stress is laughter. Laughing reduces the stress level and helps lowers physical effects of stress. Just think of a funny memory or watch some comedy on television. Don’t get addicted to the TV or you’ll fall behind and be more stressed.
Don’t worry about the laugh lines. You’ll feel better you’re wrinkled because you were happy rather than because you were frustrated.
Another great cure for stress is sex—but only if your partner is supportive and is as emotionally involved as you are. Because sex releases a lot of feel-good hormones, many use it to relieve stress. However, if your partner doesn’t provide emotional support, it may cause drama and confusion and even more stress. Please be wise if you choose this technique—and always practice safe sex.
With all of these easy stress relieving tips, I hope you will be able to take those final exams with a smile on your face. Good luck!
Your mothers probably used to tell you not to frown or your face will stay that way. Guess what? They weren’t kidding. Stress tends to cause frowns. These lines will start to be visible eventually. Of course, with the invention of botox wrinkles can be temporarily ironed out but you also might be temporarily without any facial expression. Which is scarier?
Breathing easy is going to help you let go of some stress. After cramming all of that information from your text book that you had a whole semester to do but decided to do last minute, you’re going to need a breather.
Lie down on the floor with your back flat. Put one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. Take a deep, slow breath in.
“Lying on the floor at first when you practice is important, because if you stand up, you’re more likely to take a deep breath by doing an exaggerated chest extension, rather than letting it fill up naturally,” Dr. Oz, a mind a body doctor who has been on the Oprah Winfrey Show, said.
Fill up your lungs and then slowly exhale. Count to seven while you’re exhaling. Dr. Oz recommends ten deep breaths in the morning and ten deep breaths at night to help relieve stress. (Smoking doesn’t count as taking in deep breaths!)
Another easy way to relieve stress is by taking the cork screw of a wine bottle and placing it vertically between your front teeth. This action will help loosen the tension in your jaw. You may not notice but when you’re stressed or frustrated, your jaw tends to tighten up. By relieving the tension in your jaws, you relieve tension from your neck and head which will help you to relax and be less stressed.
Journaling is a great way to relieve stress. By keeping a daily journal or diary, one can express thoughts and emotions more clearly. Many have also found that writing down problems makes it easier to find a solution because it helps process the information and release emotions. However, for it to be most helpful, you should write in detail about your feelings as if you are discussing them with a therapist.
One of the best cures for stress is laughter. Laughing reduces the stress level and helps lowers physical effects of stress. Just think of a funny memory or watch some comedy on television. Don’t get addicted to the TV or you’ll fall behind and be more stressed.
Don’t worry about the laugh lines. You’ll feel better you’re wrinkled because you were happy rather than because you were frustrated.
Another great cure for stress is sex—but only if your partner is supportive and is as emotionally involved as you are. Because sex releases a lot of feel-good hormones, many use it to relieve stress. However, if your partner doesn’t provide emotional support, it may cause drama and confusion and even more stress. Please be wise if you choose this technique—and always practice safe sex.
With all of these easy stress relieving tips, I hope you will be able to take those final exams with a smile on your face. Good luck!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Pushing Daisies
It’s comical, romantic and whimsical and has nothing to do with daisies. Instead, it deals with murdered corpses. “Pushing Daisies” aired this fall and has bedazzled its viewers with bright and colorful imagery and imagination.
The new ABC show is about a young man named Ned (Lee Pace) who discovers that he has the ability to bring the dead back to life with the mere touch of his finger. However, if Ned touches what he brought back again, it’s dead for good. If he keeps it alive for more than a minute, something within proximity will die in its place.
“Pushing Daisies” was created by Bryan Fuller and inspired by the French film “Amelie.” The show is narrated by the voice of Jim Dale and begins with Ned as a 9-year-old in the town of Coeur de Coeur. He first discovers his “ability” when his dog, Digby, gets hit by a truck.
Ned also has a crush on his neighbor Charlotte, also known as Chuck (Anna Friel). As a matter of fact, Chuck turns out to be Ned’s first kiss. Soon after, however, Chuck’s and Ned’s parents dies and both children are sent away to live with relatives. Ned is sent to live with his father who almost immediately sends him to boarding school and Chuck is sent to live with her aunts, Vivien (Ellen Greene) and Lily ( Swoosie Kurtz).
Ned grows up a loner and remains a loner with his pie making business called the Pie Hole and Digby who he can never touch again. His waitress Olive Snook (Kristin Chenoweth) is secretly in love with him and doesn’t understand why he won’t touch her or show any affection. The truth is, Ned's just not interested in her at all and perhaps still in love with the little girl next door.
The only person who knows of Ned’s secret is a private investigator, Emerson (Chi McBride), who uses Ned in helping him solve murder cases to get the money rewards.
On a fateful day for Ned—but not so fateful for Chuck, Chuck is murdered. Ned brings her back to life, but to his dismay realizes she is his one true love and he would never be able to touch her—or kiss her again.
Chuck is witty and remains optimistic through her whole situation of being “undead.” Not once does she show any signs of being morbid. As a matter of fact, Chuck sees it as her second chance in life and decides to make the best of it. She even starts helping in the murder cases.
The cast of “Pushing Daisies” does a wonderful job of keeping viewers wanting for more. Every week, secrets from different character’s lives are revealed. Each character on the show is a little odd but charming nonetheless. They seem to be able to add a touch of humor into any situation. It’s not a surprise why it has been rated one of the best shows on ABC.
The show is engaging with clever dialogue. Pace is simply adorable and McBride does a great job at playing the sarcastic Emerson. Friel, an English actor, can only be described as absolutely endearing with a lot of spunk. She truly is a natural beauty.
“Pushing Daisies” isn’t like any show ABC has ever aired. With its exaggerated color palette in each scene, it’s almost magical and fairytale-like. It has most definitely captured the hearts of millions of Americans, and I must say that I am looking forward to Wednesdays.
The show can be seen on ABC at 8 p.m. and abc.com if you need to catch up.
The new ABC show is about a young man named Ned (Lee Pace) who discovers that he has the ability to bring the dead back to life with the mere touch of his finger. However, if Ned touches what he brought back again, it’s dead for good. If he keeps it alive for more than a minute, something within proximity will die in its place.
“Pushing Daisies” was created by Bryan Fuller and inspired by the French film “Amelie.” The show is narrated by the voice of Jim Dale and begins with Ned as a 9-year-old in the town of Coeur de Coeur. He first discovers his “ability” when his dog, Digby, gets hit by a truck.
Ned also has a crush on his neighbor Charlotte, also known as Chuck (Anna Friel). As a matter of fact, Chuck turns out to be Ned’s first kiss. Soon after, however, Chuck’s and Ned’s parents dies and both children are sent away to live with relatives. Ned is sent to live with his father who almost immediately sends him to boarding school and Chuck is sent to live with her aunts, Vivien (Ellen Greene) and Lily ( Swoosie Kurtz).
Ned grows up a loner and remains a loner with his pie making business called the Pie Hole and Digby who he can never touch again. His waitress Olive Snook (Kristin Chenoweth) is secretly in love with him and doesn’t understand why he won’t touch her or show any affection. The truth is, Ned's just not interested in her at all and perhaps still in love with the little girl next door.
The only person who knows of Ned’s secret is a private investigator, Emerson (Chi McBride), who uses Ned in helping him solve murder cases to get the money rewards.
On a fateful day for Ned—but not so fateful for Chuck, Chuck is murdered. Ned brings her back to life, but to his dismay realizes she is his one true love and he would never be able to touch her—or kiss her again.
Chuck is witty and remains optimistic through her whole situation of being “undead.” Not once does she show any signs of being morbid. As a matter of fact, Chuck sees it as her second chance in life and decides to make the best of it. She even starts helping in the murder cases.
The cast of “Pushing Daisies” does a wonderful job of keeping viewers wanting for more. Every week, secrets from different character’s lives are revealed. Each character on the show is a little odd but charming nonetheless. They seem to be able to add a touch of humor into any situation. It’s not a surprise why it has been rated one of the best shows on ABC.
The show is engaging with clever dialogue. Pace is simply adorable and McBride does a great job at playing the sarcastic Emerson. Friel, an English actor, can only be described as absolutely endearing with a lot of spunk. She truly is a natural beauty.
“Pushing Daisies” isn’t like any show ABC has ever aired. With its exaggerated color palette in each scene, it’s almost magical and fairytale-like. It has most definitely captured the hearts of millions of Americans, and I must say that I am looking forward to Wednesdays.
The show can be seen on ABC at 8 p.m. and abc.com if you need to catch up.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Is Technology Taking Over?
Doesn’t it seem like there’s a new gadget out every month? There was the ipod, bluetooth, handheld laptops and, recently, the iphone. In today’s society, it is almost impossible to live without technology. Most of us can’t even imagine life without our cell phones. You almost start to think whether technology is taking over the world.
Unfortunately, technology is also hard to keep up with—especially for the older generation. My grandparents refuse to use a DVD player and getting a cell phone was a huge step. It took about a good six months for them to finally realize you don’t have to talk into the cell phone like a walkie-talkie for the person on the other end to hear you.
The majority of students today have laptops and most of us can’t remember when the internet didn’t exist. Many students can probably relate to the video “A Vision of Students Today” because it expresses how today’s students can be reached and how to connect with them.
It is agreeable that professors should get updated with technology. Understanding today’s technology would probably benefit professors in helping them get through to students and to understand them.
I often find myself a little more motivated to do an assignment that requires YouTube or anything dealing with the internet because I am familiar with it, making it easier to work with. It’s not confusing like a lot of textbooks are and makes me motivated to do the assignment because I can actually understand it.
Many have found that attending class is difficult when you’re also working 20 to 30 hours a week, which only pushes that online class back further. Learning how to prioritize time is the best thing to learn while being in college. Don’t try to do everything at once or you’ll just end up stressed and feeling older than your age.
If professors don’t keep up with advancing technology, their students may not learn anything in the future. You can see in classrooms today that many people have laptops with them. Some who claim to be “taking notes” are actually chatting, browsing myspace.com or playing games. A lot of professors are losing their students’ attention and focus. Sadly, students find ways to entertain themselves to pass the time in class.
However, letting go of a system that has worked for decades isn’t the answer to the problem. It is a system that has been responsive for many generations and continues to be. Now, it just has to be modernized to make class more interesting.
I’ve realized that classes held online are often the ones I don’t do well in. Online classes usually get taken advantage of by me because I procrastinate in them. The notes and assignments are online so it gets pushed back to the last thing on my to-do list.
Classes on campus work better because there is a professor there who is trying to interact with you. Students find lecture boring but I’ve found that I learn more and my mind actually picks up stuff that he is saying even if my ears aren’t really listening. The subconscious mind is an amazing thing. Being on campus is also a good college experience.
The students in the video do make good points. Technology is a big deal and professors need to understand that it’s a part of today’s students. However, I think that the focus is more on the problem than the solution.
Perhaps the solution is to integrate current technology with lecture. Most students buy books for hundreds of dollars and never see the inside of them. If reading assignments could be found online, students would probably respond more. A lot of students who buy books never see the inside of them, anyway.
Unfortunately, technology is also hard to keep up with—especially for the older generation. My grandparents refuse to use a DVD player and getting a cell phone was a huge step. It took about a good six months for them to finally realize you don’t have to talk into the cell phone like a walkie-talkie for the person on the other end to hear you.
The majority of students today have laptops and most of us can’t remember when the internet didn’t exist. Many students can probably relate to the video “A Vision of Students Today” because it expresses how today’s students can be reached and how to connect with them.
It is agreeable that professors should get updated with technology. Understanding today’s technology would probably benefit professors in helping them get through to students and to understand them.
I often find myself a little more motivated to do an assignment that requires YouTube or anything dealing with the internet because I am familiar with it, making it easier to work with. It’s not confusing like a lot of textbooks are and makes me motivated to do the assignment because I can actually understand it.
Many have found that attending class is difficult when you’re also working 20 to 30 hours a week, which only pushes that online class back further. Learning how to prioritize time is the best thing to learn while being in college. Don’t try to do everything at once or you’ll just end up stressed and feeling older than your age.
If professors don’t keep up with advancing technology, their students may not learn anything in the future. You can see in classrooms today that many people have laptops with them. Some who claim to be “taking notes” are actually chatting, browsing myspace.com or playing games. A lot of professors are losing their students’ attention and focus. Sadly, students find ways to entertain themselves to pass the time in class.
However, letting go of a system that has worked for decades isn’t the answer to the problem. It is a system that has been responsive for many generations and continues to be. Now, it just has to be modernized to make class more interesting.
I’ve realized that classes held online are often the ones I don’t do well in. Online classes usually get taken advantage of by me because I procrastinate in them. The notes and assignments are online so it gets pushed back to the last thing on my to-do list.
Classes on campus work better because there is a professor there who is trying to interact with you. Students find lecture boring but I’ve found that I learn more and my mind actually picks up stuff that he is saying even if my ears aren’t really listening. The subconscious mind is an amazing thing. Being on campus is also a good college experience.
The students in the video do make good points. Technology is a big deal and professors need to understand that it’s a part of today’s students. However, I think that the focus is more on the problem than the solution.
Perhaps the solution is to integrate current technology with lecture. Most students buy books for hundreds of dollars and never see the inside of them. If reading assignments could be found online, students would probably respond more. A lot of students who buy books never see the inside of them, anyway.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Crush On Food!
Crush 29 was launched in June 2006 and features a round bar, two wine caves, murals of the Napa Valley and two fireplaces. Private rooms are also offered for your party.
With its contemporary gold and brown furniture, Crush 29 is an attractive restaurant. It is located in Roseville in a plaza full of other restaurants, yet it seems to outshine them. Perhaps it is because is the only place that offers free valet parking.
The menu is influenced by the Napa Valley with cuisines such as seafood, steaks, rotisserie, gourmet pizza, pasta and desserts.
Appetizers at Crush 29 include a variety of food under interesting names—for example, the “Lamb Lollipops.”
I believe the waiter said the “lamb lollipops” was popular but it was hard to hear what he was saying over the noise level. I ordered it anyway and, boy, were they tasty.
Five cubed marinated lamb tenderloins skewers around sweet potato puree with a hot mustard-pomegranate drizzle for $9.95. It’s perfect in portion because it satisfies hunger with its rich flavor but still leaves room for the entrée.
Aside from the lamb, we also tried the “Asian steak butter cups,” which consisted of thinly sliced seasoned beef topped with cucumbers, carrots and peanuts around a spicy chili glaze ($8.95) and the “roasted garlic bruschetta,” a tomato and basil chutney over slices of bread ($7.95). Both were fresh and fulfilling.
My taste buds were surprised by the “drunken brandy steak” ($15.95). It had just a hint of sweetness in it and was tender and juicy. According to the restaurant, the flank steak is marinated for two days.
The generous steak entrée came with a mushroom ragu, asparagus and mashed potatoes which only made the meal more gratifying.
Their executive chef, Irie Genglar, has been in the culinary arts for 15. He first started in Hawaii where he worked with Roy Yamagucci, a well-known chef. Genglar brought some Hawaiian dishes to Crush 29’s menu as well.
Prior to joining Crush 29, Genglar was executive chef for The Firehouse Restaurant in Old Sacramento for five years.
The restaurant specializes in wine—which the waiter neglected to tell us. However, they have a wide selection of wine with a glass costing at around $8 to $9. Free wine tasting is also offered while you wait for your table.
If you don’t like wine, there is a variety of martinis and other alcohol beverages to choose from. A favorite of mine is the “California apple,” which includes Crown Royal bourbon, sour apple pucker, white cranberry juice garnished with fresh green apple. Martinis are served over dry ice.
Beware of the gradually dimming lights—it may trick you into believing you’ve had too much too drink.
Although the dimmed lights are supposed to make the atmosphere romantic and intimate, it also makes reading the menu a bit difficult. Intimacy is a bit ruined by the clamor.
After eating twice at Crush 29, I’d have to say the customer service could be better. The hostesses are courteous but not friendly and the waiter was like a robot. His voice was monotone and his expression blank. When we asked him what dishes were good, he recited the menu almost word for word. We were hoping he’d tell us something we didn’t already know.
Although the service was a little disappointing, I recommend the food and martinis to everyone.
It’s a great place to hang out if you’re into the contemporary, loud scene. My friends think it’s great because they’re chatter boxes and feel more comfortable in an environment like Crush 29.
Crush 29 is open daily for lunch and dinner and is located on 1480 Eureka Rd. in Roseville. Their menu can be viewed at www.crush29.com.
With its contemporary gold and brown furniture, Crush 29 is an attractive restaurant. It is located in Roseville in a plaza full of other restaurants, yet it seems to outshine them. Perhaps it is because is the only place that offers free valet parking.
The menu is influenced by the Napa Valley with cuisines such as seafood, steaks, rotisserie, gourmet pizza, pasta and desserts.
Appetizers at Crush 29 include a variety of food under interesting names—for example, the “Lamb Lollipops.”
I believe the waiter said the “lamb lollipops” was popular but it was hard to hear what he was saying over the noise level. I ordered it anyway and, boy, were they tasty.
Five cubed marinated lamb tenderloins skewers around sweet potato puree with a hot mustard-pomegranate drizzle for $9.95. It’s perfect in portion because it satisfies hunger with its rich flavor but still leaves room for the entrée.
Aside from the lamb, we also tried the “Asian steak butter cups,” which consisted of thinly sliced seasoned beef topped with cucumbers, carrots and peanuts around a spicy chili glaze ($8.95) and the “roasted garlic bruschetta,” a tomato and basil chutney over slices of bread ($7.95). Both were fresh and fulfilling.
My taste buds were surprised by the “drunken brandy steak” ($15.95). It had just a hint of sweetness in it and was tender and juicy. According to the restaurant, the flank steak is marinated for two days.
The generous steak entrée came with a mushroom ragu, asparagus and mashed potatoes which only made the meal more gratifying.
Their executive chef, Irie Genglar, has been in the culinary arts for 15. He first started in Hawaii where he worked with Roy Yamagucci, a well-known chef. Genglar brought some Hawaiian dishes to Crush 29’s menu as well.
Prior to joining Crush 29, Genglar was executive chef for The Firehouse Restaurant in Old Sacramento for five years.
The restaurant specializes in wine—which the waiter neglected to tell us. However, they have a wide selection of wine with a glass costing at around $8 to $9. Free wine tasting is also offered while you wait for your table.
If you don’t like wine, there is a variety of martinis and other alcohol beverages to choose from. A favorite of mine is the “California apple,” which includes Crown Royal bourbon, sour apple pucker, white cranberry juice garnished with fresh green apple. Martinis are served over dry ice.
Beware of the gradually dimming lights—it may trick you into believing you’ve had too much too drink.
Although the dimmed lights are supposed to make the atmosphere romantic and intimate, it also makes reading the menu a bit difficult. Intimacy is a bit ruined by the clamor.
After eating twice at Crush 29, I’d have to say the customer service could be better. The hostesses are courteous but not friendly and the waiter was like a robot. His voice was monotone and his expression blank. When we asked him what dishes were good, he recited the menu almost word for word. We were hoping he’d tell us something we didn’t already know.
Although the service was a little disappointing, I recommend the food and martinis to everyone.
It’s a great place to hang out if you’re into the contemporary, loud scene. My friends think it’s great because they’re chatter boxes and feel more comfortable in an environment like Crush 29.
Crush 29 is open daily for lunch and dinner and is located on 1480 Eureka Rd. in Roseville. Their menu can be viewed at www.crush29.com.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Celebrate Thanksgiving. . .And The Day After!
I absolutely love Thanksgiving. I love the colors of autumn and the crisp fresh air that comes with Thanksgiving. I love a house full of family, the food, the smells and the mixed drinks. I love what family members start to say after a few of those mixed drinks. I love the tradition of going around the table with each person expressing what he or she is so thankful for. Sometimes I even get teary eyed.
I must admit, however, that the real reason Thanksgiving is so enjoyable is because I know the day after Thanksgiving is just mere hours away.
Ladies and gentlemen, I have two words for you: Black Friday.
If you work at a retail store on Black Friday, you probably groan at the mention of it. Waking up at around 5 a.m. after a full and hearty dinner to get the store ready for customers does put a downer on the event.
However, if you are a shopper and are thinking about buying that flat screen TV this weekend, stop. I was at Fry’s last weekend, shopping for my entertainment center when I came upon only the most gorgeous flat screen ever—50 inches, LCD and two HDMI. You can almost hear the angels singing “Hallelujah!” (I think I did in my head.)
To my chagrin, the TV was over my budget.
“Can I help you, miss?” asked the salesperson.
“Do you have anything like this that’s about $500 cheaper?” I asked hopefully.
He smiled. “We do, but it’s a 42 inch,” he said.
Then, he looked around quickly and said, “Wait for Black Friday.”
Black Friday has blow-out sales at just about any store you go to. The mall is the best. Last year Express, a clothing store in the mall, gave me a free purse when I purchased something there. Not to mention, all their clothes were ridiculously cheap that day.
According to RetailIndustry, “The origin of Black Friday comes from the shift to profitability during the holiday season.”
In retail charts, black once indicated profit while red indicated loss thus the name Black Friday.
The best time to do Christmas shopping is on Black Friday. This is usually known to be when most people start doing their Christmas shopping. Wal-Mart’s prices, which are already pretty affordable, get even lower. Wal-Mart has great gifts at incredible prices for just about anyone on your Christmas list. Start early in the day because Wal-Mart is known to have people who camp outside waiting for the doors to open.
Okay, so I have to be honest now. Black Friday isn’t as simple as it sounds. It’s not just about buy, buy, buy. Well, okay, it is. But, of course, it includes you being a smart shopper because there are thousands of others who want to buy, buy and buy as well. This is called competitive shopping.
Yes, “competitive shopping” is something I created, but it works remarkably well. You just have to know what you want and go get it. Don’t stop and chat. Don’t go look at other things and think what you want will still be there—especially if it’s a popular item. Just head straight for it and get it before anyone else does.
If you really want something, like that flat screen TV, head out before the sun is even up. You will definitely have a better chance of getting exactly what you want. Plus, you will be able to find a parking spot. You will be thankful afterwards.
I’m almost embarrassed to say that I’ve shopped enough to where I actually know where items will be in certain stores without having to look at the aisle numbers. As a matter of fact, if “shop-a-holic” was a real word, my name would probably be somewhere in its definition. So, beware of me.
I know that Black Friday is more than a month from now, but patience is a virtue and you’ll be rewarded by the cash you save.
Isn’t Thanksgiving just the most wonderful time of the year? Ask me again what I’m thankful for after Black Friday. . .
I must admit, however, that the real reason Thanksgiving is so enjoyable is because I know the day after Thanksgiving is just mere hours away.
Ladies and gentlemen, I have two words for you: Black Friday.
If you work at a retail store on Black Friday, you probably groan at the mention of it. Waking up at around 5 a.m. after a full and hearty dinner to get the store ready for customers does put a downer on the event.
However, if you are a shopper and are thinking about buying that flat screen TV this weekend, stop. I was at Fry’s last weekend, shopping for my entertainment center when I came upon only the most gorgeous flat screen ever—50 inches, LCD and two HDMI. You can almost hear the angels singing “Hallelujah!” (I think I did in my head.)
To my chagrin, the TV was over my budget.
“Can I help you, miss?” asked the salesperson.
“Do you have anything like this that’s about $500 cheaper?” I asked hopefully.
He smiled. “We do, but it’s a 42 inch,” he said.
Then, he looked around quickly and said, “Wait for Black Friday.”
Black Friday has blow-out sales at just about any store you go to. The mall is the best. Last year Express, a clothing store in the mall, gave me a free purse when I purchased something there. Not to mention, all their clothes were ridiculously cheap that day.
According to RetailIndustry, “The origin of Black Friday comes from the shift to profitability during the holiday season.”
In retail charts, black once indicated profit while red indicated loss thus the name Black Friday.
The best time to do Christmas shopping is on Black Friday. This is usually known to be when most people start doing their Christmas shopping. Wal-Mart’s prices, which are already pretty affordable, get even lower. Wal-Mart has great gifts at incredible prices for just about anyone on your Christmas list. Start early in the day because Wal-Mart is known to have people who camp outside waiting for the doors to open.
Okay, so I have to be honest now. Black Friday isn’t as simple as it sounds. It’s not just about buy, buy, buy. Well, okay, it is. But, of course, it includes you being a smart shopper because there are thousands of others who want to buy, buy and buy as well. This is called competitive shopping.
Yes, “competitive shopping” is something I created, but it works remarkably well. You just have to know what you want and go get it. Don’t stop and chat. Don’t go look at other things and think what you want will still be there—especially if it’s a popular item. Just head straight for it and get it before anyone else does.
If you really want something, like that flat screen TV, head out before the sun is even up. You will definitely have a better chance of getting exactly what you want. Plus, you will be able to find a parking spot. You will be thankful afterwards.
I’m almost embarrassed to say that I’ve shopped enough to where I actually know where items will be in certain stores without having to look at the aisle numbers. As a matter of fact, if “shop-a-holic” was a real word, my name would probably be somewhere in its definition. So, beware of me.
I know that Black Friday is more than a month from now, but patience is a virtue and you’ll be rewarded by the cash you save.
Isn’t Thanksgiving just the most wonderful time of the year? Ask me again what I’m thankful for after Black Friday. . .
Monday, October 15, 2007
Let The Gas Pass
Interestingly enough, farting can be considered a talent. Some use farting to make a living. In the early 20th century, a man known as Le Petomane performed in France using his fart to create “music.” Mr. Methane is a modern Le Petomane and is today’s “flatulist.” His talent can be heard at Heptune.com. He could probably be found on YouTube.com as well.
Producers of medical treatments for gas such as Beano and Gas-X and authors who write about farting have also earned a living. Books on farting include “The Gas We Pass; The Story of Farts” by Shinto Cho, translated by Amanda Mayer Stinchecum. The book is very informative and includes pictures.
With the subject of farting giving so many an income and popularity, one starts to wonder just exactly why farting is so embarrassing. Some might say it’s embarrassing because it is known to be a disgusting act and those who fart in public usually try to deny it.
Others try to cover it up by scraping their chair against the ground to make it seem like that had been the sound all along. If you try this method, be sure to hide your blush as well or you won't be able to get away with it.
Farting is not a much discussed topic. Most find it embarrassing. Some, mostly men, take pride in farting. Nonetheless, farting is natural. It’s actually your body’s way of telling you that you have a healthy digestive system. Everyone farts—your grandmother, Angelina Jolie, priests, your professors, and hopefully you.
As the great American Benjamin Franklin wrote, “Fart Proudly!”
The amount of times you’re supposed to fart is 14 times a day—not that anyone’s counting, right?
Farting occurs for many reasons. Smoking, lactose intolerance, swallowing too much air, eating certain foods and an overabundance of bacteria in the colon are some reasons why farting occurs.
If you are farting excessively, you should consult with a doctor immediately. Excessive farting may be due to serious health issues such as gallstones, irritable bowel syndrome, appendicitis and stomach ulcers.
The composition of farts is variable. Sometimes it is because of the air that we swallow.
According to doctors, by the time the air that we swallow gets into the large intestine, only nitrogen is left which causes chemical reactions between stomach acid and intestine fluids which then may produce carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a component of bacterial action and bacteria cause gas.
The odor of farts comes from sulfur, so the more sulfur-rich your diet is, the more your fart will stink—and the more people will notice.
Beans are infamous for causing farts. The reason behind this is because beans contain sugars humans can’t digest. If beans are a “must-have” in your diet and you’d like to control farting after eating it, you should try soaking them overnight in water with a few tablespoons of vinegar. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking. Apparently, doing this will give you less a chance of farting.
The way you eat and drink can cause gas as well. Not carefully chewing and chugging a drink can cause you to swallow an excess of air therefore causing farts to emerge. Also, chewing can help the digestive system break down the foods so bacteria can be prevented.
“Eating slowly and chewing food for longer allows the enzymes in saliva to break the food. The more that food is chewed, the more it is broken down for the digestive system,” MedicalNewsToday said.
We should just accept that, on most occasions, farting is good news for our bodies. So, go ahead, let it rip. It’s uncomfortable to hold it in and it and may cause a stomachache if you do.
Producers of medical treatments for gas such as Beano and Gas-X and authors who write about farting have also earned a living. Books on farting include “The Gas We Pass; The Story of Farts” by Shinto Cho, translated by Amanda Mayer Stinchecum. The book is very informative and includes pictures.
With the subject of farting giving so many an income and popularity, one starts to wonder just exactly why farting is so embarrassing. Some might say it’s embarrassing because it is known to be a disgusting act and those who fart in public usually try to deny it.
Others try to cover it up by scraping their chair against the ground to make it seem like that had been the sound all along. If you try this method, be sure to hide your blush as well or you won't be able to get away with it.
Farting is not a much discussed topic. Most find it embarrassing. Some, mostly men, take pride in farting. Nonetheless, farting is natural. It’s actually your body’s way of telling you that you have a healthy digestive system. Everyone farts—your grandmother, Angelina Jolie, priests, your professors, and hopefully you.
As the great American Benjamin Franklin wrote, “Fart Proudly!”
The amount of times you’re supposed to fart is 14 times a day—not that anyone’s counting, right?
Farting occurs for many reasons. Smoking, lactose intolerance, swallowing too much air, eating certain foods and an overabundance of bacteria in the colon are some reasons why farting occurs.
If you are farting excessively, you should consult with a doctor immediately. Excessive farting may be due to serious health issues such as gallstones, irritable bowel syndrome, appendicitis and stomach ulcers.
The composition of farts is variable. Sometimes it is because of the air that we swallow.
According to doctors, by the time the air that we swallow gets into the large intestine, only nitrogen is left which causes chemical reactions between stomach acid and intestine fluids which then may produce carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a component of bacterial action and bacteria cause gas.
The odor of farts comes from sulfur, so the more sulfur-rich your diet is, the more your fart will stink—and the more people will notice.
Beans are infamous for causing farts. The reason behind this is because beans contain sugars humans can’t digest. If beans are a “must-have” in your diet and you’d like to control farting after eating it, you should try soaking them overnight in water with a few tablespoons of vinegar. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking. Apparently, doing this will give you less a chance of farting.
The way you eat and drink can cause gas as well. Not carefully chewing and chugging a drink can cause you to swallow an excess of air therefore causing farts to emerge. Also, chewing can help the digestive system break down the foods so bacteria can be prevented.
“Eating slowly and chewing food for longer allows the enzymes in saliva to break the food. The more that food is chewed, the more it is broken down for the digestive system,” MedicalNewsToday said.
We should just accept that, on most occasions, farting is good news for our bodies. So, go ahead, let it rip. It’s uncomfortable to hold it in and it and may cause a stomachache if you do.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
YouTube...Whatever You Want Is Here.
Almost anything can be found on YouTube, from Paris Hilton’s sex videos to movies to self-made videos uploaded by people from all over the world.
As a member of YouTube, you can download and upload whatever you want. You have the space of 100 MB and you have the option of setting it to private or letting the world see what you’ve got.
If you’re someone who just browses through YouTube, you have the option of not being bored—probably ever. Seriously, the videos are endless. If you don’t believe me, log on to YouTube.com and type in something random in the search engine. I guarantee you something will come up. This is coming from someone who has tried it.
The good news about YouTube is you can find whatever you’re interested in on YouTube. A friend of mine watches Korean dramas on YouTube because they’re not easily found in the United States. Plus, YouTube is free, which is awesome news to college students.
I found “Thumbelina,” an animation from childhood that I still haven’t been able to find a hard copy of. It was awesome!
The bad news is those who are caught in an embarrassing situation can also be found on YouTube and can be watched repeatedly. For example, a candidate in last year’s Miss Universe pageant who slipped and fell on stage in her evening gown. She probably won’t be easily forgotten.
Or better yet, Britney Spears’ performance at this year’s MTV Awards. Boy, did she get bashed about that one. A parody of it can also be found on YouTube—and some have claimed that it’s better than the real thing. It should probably be mentioned that the one playing Spears was a man wearing a blonde wig in scandalous ensemble almost exactly matching Spears’ when she was on stage. I thought it was hilarious.
Unfortunately those who are the subject of embarrassment can’t delete the videos either.
Surprisingly, fame has come of to some of those who uploaded their self-made videos. Many garage bands have gained popularity through YouTube. Marie Digby, a girl from the bay area, did an acoustic version of the song “Umbrella” by singer Rhianna. Digby’s version can be heard playing on the radio in San Francisco. She has recruited quite a number of fans—me, included.
YouTube has been tremendously successful since it was founded in February of 2005 by three employees of PayPal. These guys either had no life or are unbelievably smart. Nonetheless, they are ranking in big bucks due to their ingenious idea of video sharing.
Last year, “Time” magazine named YouTube “the invention of the year.” Google made a wise choice and bought the great invention in October of 2006 for a whopping $1.65 million—the biggest purchase Google has made in its history. (What isn’t Google buying?)
Some professors are even using YouTube in classrooms. Recently, my professor of fashion history showed the class a clip from YouTube that some college students had made about the discovery of Pompeii and how the city looks like today.
With YouTube skyrocketing, it is not surprising to find videos that are not so entertaining. As a matter of fact, some are quite shocking, like the one with actor Will Ferrell and the toddler who was swearing after every other word. Ferrell plays the role of someone who’s renting a house while the toddler plays the landowner. She comes to collect rent and cusses while demanding the payment. Where and who are the toddler’s parents?
Also, there are horrifying videos of people abusing animals and laughing about it on YouTube. Will it ever be possible to use these video clips as evidence against those committing these crimes? We’ll see.
Well, that’s that about YouTube. Who will be the next to surprise us on YouTube? You could be the next star—just don’t get caught doing something you don’t want the world to see.
As a member of YouTube, you can download and upload whatever you want. You have the space of 100 MB and you have the option of setting it to private or letting the world see what you’ve got.
If you’re someone who just browses through YouTube, you have the option of not being bored—probably ever. Seriously, the videos are endless. If you don’t believe me, log on to YouTube.com and type in something random in the search engine. I guarantee you something will come up. This is coming from someone who has tried it.
The good news about YouTube is you can find whatever you’re interested in on YouTube. A friend of mine watches Korean dramas on YouTube because they’re not easily found in the United States. Plus, YouTube is free, which is awesome news to college students.
I found “Thumbelina,” an animation from childhood that I still haven’t been able to find a hard copy of. It was awesome!
The bad news is those who are caught in an embarrassing situation can also be found on YouTube and can be watched repeatedly. For example, a candidate in last year’s Miss Universe pageant who slipped and fell on stage in her evening gown. She probably won’t be easily forgotten.
Or better yet, Britney Spears’ performance at this year’s MTV Awards. Boy, did she get bashed about that one. A parody of it can also be found on YouTube—and some have claimed that it’s better than the real thing. It should probably be mentioned that the one playing Spears was a man wearing a blonde wig in scandalous ensemble almost exactly matching Spears’ when she was on stage. I thought it was hilarious.
Unfortunately those who are the subject of embarrassment can’t delete the videos either.
Surprisingly, fame has come of to some of those who uploaded their self-made videos. Many garage bands have gained popularity through YouTube. Marie Digby, a girl from the bay area, did an acoustic version of the song “Umbrella” by singer Rhianna. Digby’s version can be heard playing on the radio in San Francisco. She has recruited quite a number of fans—me, included.
YouTube has been tremendously successful since it was founded in February of 2005 by three employees of PayPal. These guys either had no life or are unbelievably smart. Nonetheless, they are ranking in big bucks due to their ingenious idea of video sharing.
Last year, “Time” magazine named YouTube “the invention of the year.” Google made a wise choice and bought the great invention in October of 2006 for a whopping $1.65 million—the biggest purchase Google has made in its history. (What isn’t Google buying?)
Some professors are even using YouTube in classrooms. Recently, my professor of fashion history showed the class a clip from YouTube that some college students had made about the discovery of Pompeii and how the city looks like today.
With YouTube skyrocketing, it is not surprising to find videos that are not so entertaining. As a matter of fact, some are quite shocking, like the one with actor Will Ferrell and the toddler who was swearing after every other word. Ferrell plays the role of someone who’s renting a house while the toddler plays the landowner. She comes to collect rent and cusses while demanding the payment. Where and who are the toddler’s parents?
Also, there are horrifying videos of people abusing animals and laughing about it on YouTube. Will it ever be possible to use these video clips as evidence against those committing these crimes? We’ll see.
Well, that’s that about YouTube. Who will be the next to surprise us on YouTube? You could be the next star—just don’t get caught doing something you don’t want the world to see.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Miss Fashionista
What you wear counts. No matter what you think about fashion, when it comes down to it, what you wear is important. As a matter of fact, fashion has been important all over the world for centuries. Fashion has been used in history to show status and class, it has been used in the modern era to reflect one’s personality and style and it is used to make a good first impression.
Now that cheaper stores such as Target and Forever 21 are producing trendy clothes at affordable prices, fashion is becoming somewhat of a bigger issue—especially for women. Cheap and trendy clothes make fashion more accessible therefore women are paying more attention to what they’re wearing.
The question remains of how to put all these colors, fabrics, and styles together without overdoing it and yet still let who you are shine through.
Sharon Haver, a fashion stylist and columnist, is described on FocusOnStyle.com as one who “knows what the modern-thinking woman wants—easygoing style that suits her individual needs, spiced with just the right amount of flip and wit.”
Haver has been in the fashion industry for about 20 years and is called a “beauty guru.” She makes a great fashion informer because she seems to have an eye for the latest trends, whether it is inexpensive or pricey.
Her columns give women guidance on the latest fashion and beauty tricks and how to use them in everyday wear. She uses fashion and beauty in a down-to-earth way so that all women can relate to it. Her columns empower women to boost their confidence level by looking their best. She gives advice on how to achieve the look you’re going for and how to “build a fantastic figure-flattering wardrobe.”
Haver’s experience in the fashion world has included her being a “New York-based photography fashion stylist, syndicated columnist, contributing editor, lecturer, on-air television/radio fashion expert, and founder/ style director of FocusOnStyle.com.”
Haver’s career in writing and fashion started with an advice column called “Sharon Haver’s FOCUS ON STYLE.” Scripps Howard News Service once distributed FocusOnStyle to nearly 400 daily newspapers and websites before FocusOnStyle grew into an independently operated online magazine. She now writes multiple columns for the magazine such as “StyleThing!” and “QuickFix.” The columns give news on the latest buzz in fashion and quick makeover tips. “Focus on Style” remains the anchor for the publication with about 12 million viewers annually.
“A tremendous amount of work has gone into this site, it is well developed, it is easy to navigate, and it has more interesting ideas than you can shake a stick at!” a reader said.
Macy’s is using Haver in their commercials as the “fashion guru” and also as their spokesperson for their fall advertising and marketing campaign. She has also made appearances on TV and radio shows such as Martha Stewart Living Radio, American Journal, The Montel Williams Show and more.
As a photography fashion stylist, Haver has been able to work with magazine covers and pages, catalogs, advertisements and visual imaging. Magazines Haver has done work for include Vogue Mexcio and Live! With Regis and Kathie Lee. (The list continues.)
As a fashion stylist, Haver has had the opportunity to dress celebrities such as supermodel Rebecca Romijn, Elle McPhearson and Kelly Rippa.
Haver’s career in being a fashion stylist and columnist is a huge success. She is very dedicated to her fashion columns and to giving women the “know-how-to look within the framework of her own figure, budget, and lifestyle.”
Haver’s readers speak highly of her work and respond well to the advice she offers.
“If you want a spirited ‘best friend’ in the fashion business who solves all your style dilemmas, look no further than Sharon Haver,” FocusOnStyle.com wrote.
Now that cheaper stores such as Target and Forever 21 are producing trendy clothes at affordable prices, fashion is becoming somewhat of a bigger issue—especially for women. Cheap and trendy clothes make fashion more accessible therefore women are paying more attention to what they’re wearing.
The question remains of how to put all these colors, fabrics, and styles together without overdoing it and yet still let who you are shine through.
Sharon Haver, a fashion stylist and columnist, is described on FocusOnStyle.com as one who “knows what the modern-thinking woman wants—easygoing style that suits her individual needs, spiced with just the right amount of flip and wit.”
Haver has been in the fashion industry for about 20 years and is called a “beauty guru.” She makes a great fashion informer because she seems to have an eye for the latest trends, whether it is inexpensive or pricey.
Her columns give women guidance on the latest fashion and beauty tricks and how to use them in everyday wear. She uses fashion and beauty in a down-to-earth way so that all women can relate to it. Her columns empower women to boost their confidence level by looking their best. She gives advice on how to achieve the look you’re going for and how to “build a fantastic figure-flattering wardrobe.”
Haver’s experience in the fashion world has included her being a “New York-based photography fashion stylist, syndicated columnist, contributing editor, lecturer, on-air television/radio fashion expert, and founder/ style director of FocusOnStyle.com.”
Haver’s career in writing and fashion started with an advice column called “Sharon Haver’s FOCUS ON STYLE.” Scripps Howard News Service once distributed FocusOnStyle to nearly 400 daily newspapers and websites before FocusOnStyle grew into an independently operated online magazine. She now writes multiple columns for the magazine such as “StyleThing!” and “QuickFix.” The columns give news on the latest buzz in fashion and quick makeover tips. “Focus on Style” remains the anchor for the publication with about 12 million viewers annually.
“A tremendous amount of work has gone into this site, it is well developed, it is easy to navigate, and it has more interesting ideas than you can shake a stick at!” a reader said.
Macy’s is using Haver in their commercials as the “fashion guru” and also as their spokesperson for their fall advertising and marketing campaign. She has also made appearances on TV and radio shows such as Martha Stewart Living Radio, American Journal, The Montel Williams Show and more.
As a photography fashion stylist, Haver has been able to work with magazine covers and pages, catalogs, advertisements and visual imaging. Magazines Haver has done work for include Vogue Mexcio and Live! With Regis and Kathie Lee. (The list continues.)
As a fashion stylist, Haver has had the opportunity to dress celebrities such as supermodel Rebecca Romijn, Elle McPhearson and Kelly Rippa.
Haver’s career in being a fashion stylist and columnist is a huge success. She is very dedicated to her fashion columns and to giving women the “know-how-to look within the framework of her own figure, budget, and lifestyle.”
Haver’s readers speak highly of her work and respond well to the advice she offers.
“If you want a spirited ‘best friend’ in the fashion business who solves all your style dilemmas, look no further than Sharon Haver,” FocusOnStyle.com wrote.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Safe and Sunless Tanning
Although many find that being tanned is attractive, it is also very damaging to the skin.
Research shows that if you are out in the sun for 15 minutes or longer, you are at risk of getting skin cancer, malignant melanoma and photoaging.
Photoaging happens when the sun effects cause the skin collagen to break down, which then results in premature aging—in other words, you’re going to look older than you really are.
Photoaging is quite apparent in many women from the 1950s because tanning salons weren’t as available as they are now.
Women used to lie out in the sun for hours to achieve that “bronzed look” because it was popular and attractive.
“It was very becoming. It made my eyes look bluer,” a woman on The Learning Channel said.
She is now suffering from a sever case of skin cancer. She is also in her mid-fifties but appears to look ten years older.
People think that tanning booths and beds are a safer alternative to the sun, but unfortunately tanning beds are worse.
What most people don’t know is that tanning beds use ultraviolet bulbs which give out predominantly UV-A rays.
According to MedicineNet.com, the sun emits a mixture of UV-B and UV-A rays. The difference is that UV-B rays causes the skin to tan quickly while UV-A rays “do not cause burning until exposure levels are very high.”
UV-A rays go deeper into the skin and increases the chance of getting skin cancer and malignant melanoma.
Tanning beds also require a few sessions for a nice tan to build.
However, there is good news for those who enjoy being bronze.
The safest and easiest way to tan is called mystic tanning or also known as airbrush tanning because it is 100% UV free.
Mystic tanning consists of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which is FDA approved.
The DHA is a clear solution that is sprayed onto the body by either a professional using an airbrush gun or you can stand in a stall and an automated machine will gently spray the tanning solution. (It feels misty, therefore acquiring the name “mystic tanning.”)
In about 30 minutes, the tan will start to show and usually lasts 5 to 7 days. There is also tan extending lotion available to help you keep your tan longer.
You come out of the first session of mystic tanning with a near perfect tan, depending on how picky you are.
If you’d like to be darker, another layer can be applied. Most people wait a couple of days before deciding whether to go darker.
Mystic tanning is also great because whereas many do-it-yourself tanning solutions can cause streaks, mystic tanning is streak free. Also, if you have any tanning lines, a professional can airbrush the lines away within a matter of minutes.
Mystic tanning is also known to be cheaper than tanning beds.
The average cost for a mystic tanning package deal is about $130 while tanning beds cost about $200. Of course, the sun is free but living without skin cancer is priceless.
Most importantly, mystic tanning is not damaging to the skin and you can maintain your youth for as long as possible.
Mystic tanning has become quite popular in the last few years. Many celebrities often use airbrush tanning. Now, we common folk can afford to be airbrushed too.
Hopefully, tanning beds will fade out and those devoted to them will realize how old they’re going to look ten years from now.
If you choose to be out in the sun for any reason, it is strongly recommended by dermatologists to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher.
If you’re out in the sun to tan, think twice about how much damage you’re causing to your skin—and with our ozone layer depleting, it won’t be such a good idea.
Research shows that if you are out in the sun for 15 minutes or longer, you are at risk of getting skin cancer, malignant melanoma and photoaging.
Photoaging happens when the sun effects cause the skin collagen to break down, which then results in premature aging—in other words, you’re going to look older than you really are.
Photoaging is quite apparent in many women from the 1950s because tanning salons weren’t as available as they are now.
Women used to lie out in the sun for hours to achieve that “bronzed look” because it was popular and attractive.
“It was very becoming. It made my eyes look bluer,” a woman on The Learning Channel said.
She is now suffering from a sever case of skin cancer. She is also in her mid-fifties but appears to look ten years older.
People think that tanning booths and beds are a safer alternative to the sun, but unfortunately tanning beds are worse.
What most people don’t know is that tanning beds use ultraviolet bulbs which give out predominantly UV-A rays.
According to MedicineNet.com, the sun emits a mixture of UV-B and UV-A rays. The difference is that UV-B rays causes the skin to tan quickly while UV-A rays “do not cause burning until exposure levels are very high.”
UV-A rays go deeper into the skin and increases the chance of getting skin cancer and malignant melanoma.
Tanning beds also require a few sessions for a nice tan to build.
However, there is good news for those who enjoy being bronze.
The safest and easiest way to tan is called mystic tanning or also known as airbrush tanning because it is 100% UV free.
Mystic tanning consists of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which is FDA approved.
The DHA is a clear solution that is sprayed onto the body by either a professional using an airbrush gun or you can stand in a stall and an automated machine will gently spray the tanning solution. (It feels misty, therefore acquiring the name “mystic tanning.”)
In about 30 minutes, the tan will start to show and usually lasts 5 to 7 days. There is also tan extending lotion available to help you keep your tan longer.
You come out of the first session of mystic tanning with a near perfect tan, depending on how picky you are.
If you’d like to be darker, another layer can be applied. Most people wait a couple of days before deciding whether to go darker.
Mystic tanning is also great because whereas many do-it-yourself tanning solutions can cause streaks, mystic tanning is streak free. Also, if you have any tanning lines, a professional can airbrush the lines away within a matter of minutes.
Mystic tanning is also known to be cheaper than tanning beds.
The average cost for a mystic tanning package deal is about $130 while tanning beds cost about $200. Of course, the sun is free but living without skin cancer is priceless.
Most importantly, mystic tanning is not damaging to the skin and you can maintain your youth for as long as possible.
Mystic tanning has become quite popular in the last few years. Many celebrities often use airbrush tanning. Now, we common folk can afford to be airbrushed too.
Hopefully, tanning beds will fade out and those devoted to them will realize how old they’re going to look ten years from now.
If you choose to be out in the sun for any reason, it is strongly recommended by dermatologists to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher.
If you’re out in the sun to tan, think twice about how much damage you’re causing to your skin—and with our ozone layer depleting, it won’t be such a good idea.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Teen Drivers Banned to Use Cell Phones
Starting next July in California, the law requiring drivers to use hand-held devices while behind the wheel and the law banning teens from using any electronic device while driving will take effect.
Legislatures are stricter on teens because they believe that teenagers are not experienced enough behind the wheel to multi-task.
Using a cell phone, or any hand-held device, can easily distract a driver and cause an accident, especially now that technology has enhanced cell phones so that one’s phone can be like having a computer.
Actually, palm sized laptops are out in the market as well and can be hazardous if they are being used while driving.
I once saw someone text messaging on her cell phone, drinking a Coke, and driving at the same time. I didn’t even know that could be done!
The leading cause of teen deaths has been because of car crashes and, according to California Highway Patrol, “cell phone use is a leading cause of distracted-driver accidents.”
When I first got my license at the age of 17, I couldn’t even have a conversation with a passenger or have the radio on too loud because I was afraid I’d lose my concentration on the road.
While I was in my junior year in high school—the year when just about everyone got their license—three students died of a fatal car crashes and one student was severely injured. That is a high death toll within a school year.
The car crashes might not have been related to using cell phones while driving, but it certainly shows the inexperience of a teen driver and how easily teenagers can be distracted on the road. Talking on the cell phone can only distract a driver further more.
I mean, a teenager only has an attention span of so much, right? Trying to pay attention to the road while having a full on conversation isn’t the safest way to go.
If the call is an emergency, there is always the option of pulling over to the nearest parking lot to talk—not at a gas station though because if you don’t get into a car accident while using your cell phone, rumor has it you can explode by talking on the phone at a gas station.
Now we really have to weigh the pros and cons of having a cell phone!
Of course, many teenagers will be angry at the idea of not being able to do what they want in the privacy of their car, but that’s not a surprise. How many teens are actually happy to be told what to do?
After spending a great amount of time with the youth group at church and having two teenage sisters, I’ve noticed that teenagers love saying, “It’s my life. I can’t do whatever I want.” They really think they mean it, too.
So, I’m sure there will be rebels who will talk on the cell phone just like there are those who speed on the road, just to prove their point—that they’re “cool” and they can do whatever they want.
However, seeing as though most teens are getting paid minimum wage and there is a $50 fine for each violation, they will see what is more important to them.
Of course, not all teenagers are careless or irresponsible, but many other drivers including myself would just feel more at ease if teenagers kept both hands on the wheel and their full attention on driving safely.
Obviously, that doesn’t only include teens. Every driver in general should have their full attention on the road.
Most importantly, however, is that the law will hopefully decrease the death rate in teens.
Legislatures are stricter on teens because they believe that teenagers are not experienced enough behind the wheel to multi-task.
Using a cell phone, or any hand-held device, can easily distract a driver and cause an accident, especially now that technology has enhanced cell phones so that one’s phone can be like having a computer.
Actually, palm sized laptops are out in the market as well and can be hazardous if they are being used while driving.
I once saw someone text messaging on her cell phone, drinking a Coke, and driving at the same time. I didn’t even know that could be done!
The leading cause of teen deaths has been because of car crashes and, according to California Highway Patrol, “cell phone use is a leading cause of distracted-driver accidents.”
When I first got my license at the age of 17, I couldn’t even have a conversation with a passenger or have the radio on too loud because I was afraid I’d lose my concentration on the road.
While I was in my junior year in high school—the year when just about everyone got their license—three students died of a fatal car crashes and one student was severely injured. That is a high death toll within a school year.
The car crashes might not have been related to using cell phones while driving, but it certainly shows the inexperience of a teen driver and how easily teenagers can be distracted on the road. Talking on the cell phone can only distract a driver further more.
I mean, a teenager only has an attention span of so much, right? Trying to pay attention to the road while having a full on conversation isn’t the safest way to go.
If the call is an emergency, there is always the option of pulling over to the nearest parking lot to talk—not at a gas station though because if you don’t get into a car accident while using your cell phone, rumor has it you can explode by talking on the phone at a gas station.
Now we really have to weigh the pros and cons of having a cell phone!
Of course, many teenagers will be angry at the idea of not being able to do what they want in the privacy of their car, but that’s not a surprise. How many teens are actually happy to be told what to do?
After spending a great amount of time with the youth group at church and having two teenage sisters, I’ve noticed that teenagers love saying, “It’s my life. I can’t do whatever I want.” They really think they mean it, too.
So, I’m sure there will be rebels who will talk on the cell phone just like there are those who speed on the road, just to prove their point—that they’re “cool” and they can do whatever they want.
However, seeing as though most teens are getting paid minimum wage and there is a $50 fine for each violation, they will see what is more important to them.
Of course, not all teenagers are careless or irresponsible, but many other drivers including myself would just feel more at ease if teenagers kept both hands on the wheel and their full attention on driving safely.
Obviously, that doesn’t only include teens. Every driver in general should have their full attention on the road.
Most importantly, however, is that the law will hopefully decrease the death rate in teens.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Grow Healthy Children
Obesity in children has become a crisis in the United States. The question is, how?
A family friend of mine lets her son drink as much soda as he wants and having McDonalds everyday seems to be just fine with her.
“He’ll throw a tantrum if he doesn’t get it,” she said.
Her son, Joshua, at the age of six weighs 90 pounds.
A pediatric growth chart indicates that the average healthy weight for a six-year-old boy is around 30 to 35 pounds. If a child is overweight, he or she is at risk of heart problems, diabetes and more.
Not only will the child face health issues, he can also face emotional issues as well.
Joshua’s mother said that he has a hard time being active in sports because running is difficult due to his weight.
He starts breathing heavily about after three minutes of running and then gasping for air and wheezing after five minutes of running.
If you are a parent or have ever been around children, you would clearly notice that most of them seem to have an abundant amount of energy.
Due to Joshua’s weight and lack of athletic abilities, other children in his school tease him and make fun of him.
He gets picked last to be on a team. He gets called names such as “Fatty” and “Jumbo Josh.”
Speaking from experience of having been called names such as “Skinny” and “Miss Slim” while I was growing up, I can say that being made fun and receiving nicknames you didn’t pick for yourself can scar you emotionally and mentally.
It literally brings down your self-esteem and confidence.
Obviously, children are known to throw tantrums and fits when they don’t get what they want. Sadly, even adults do it.
The point is that parents need to maintain control of their child’s eating habits and what goes into their child’s body to give them a healthy life—even if they scream about it.
Almost everyday, Joshua gets to eat at McDonalds for lunch and dinner. His mother says that he eats adult sized meals “because the kids’ meal doesn’t fill him up.”
There is 250 calories in a McDonald’s hamburger, 380 calories in a medium size cup of french fries and 150 calories in a 16 oz. cup of Coca-Cola. Six-year-olds should be consuming only 1400 calories per day.
The Harvard School of Public Health says that “eating at fast food restaurants has been associated with an additional 120 calories per day.”
However, there are great solutions and tips out there for parents who are having trouble getting their kids to eat healthy.
It doesn’t mean bad parenting if your child is overweight. It just means you need to start taking control and start early on giving your child a healthy diet.
There are great tips from just about every pediatrician in the United States on how to diet and exercise.
However, I’ve come to realize that kids learn better when they get to be “hands-on.”
North Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op offers programs and classes for parents and children to learn how to eat healthy.
“Our classes and programs are designed to teach parents and childrenhow to take delicious whole foods and make simple meals out of them andthat eating well doesn't need to be a daunting prospect,” Julia Thomas, Education Coordinator for the Co-op, said.
The Co-op lets children see how things are grown with a guided tour of the Co-op.
“I think that children need to experience food by seeing how it is grown, learning how to make it, and by tasting new foods,” Thomas said.
Hopefully programs like these can help decrease the obesity rate in children and can keep them living a full and healthy life. Best of all, these programs are absolutely free!
A family friend of mine lets her son drink as much soda as he wants and having McDonalds everyday seems to be just fine with her.
“He’ll throw a tantrum if he doesn’t get it,” she said.
Her son, Joshua, at the age of six weighs 90 pounds.
A pediatric growth chart indicates that the average healthy weight for a six-year-old boy is around 30 to 35 pounds. If a child is overweight, he or she is at risk of heart problems, diabetes and more.
Not only will the child face health issues, he can also face emotional issues as well.
Joshua’s mother said that he has a hard time being active in sports because running is difficult due to his weight.
He starts breathing heavily about after three minutes of running and then gasping for air and wheezing after five minutes of running.
If you are a parent or have ever been around children, you would clearly notice that most of them seem to have an abundant amount of energy.
Due to Joshua’s weight and lack of athletic abilities, other children in his school tease him and make fun of him.
He gets picked last to be on a team. He gets called names such as “Fatty” and “Jumbo Josh.”
Speaking from experience of having been called names such as “Skinny” and “Miss Slim” while I was growing up, I can say that being made fun and receiving nicknames you didn’t pick for yourself can scar you emotionally and mentally.
It literally brings down your self-esteem and confidence.
Obviously, children are known to throw tantrums and fits when they don’t get what they want. Sadly, even adults do it.
The point is that parents need to maintain control of their child’s eating habits and what goes into their child’s body to give them a healthy life—even if they scream about it.
Almost everyday, Joshua gets to eat at McDonalds for lunch and dinner. His mother says that he eats adult sized meals “because the kids’ meal doesn’t fill him up.”
There is 250 calories in a McDonald’s hamburger, 380 calories in a medium size cup of french fries and 150 calories in a 16 oz. cup of Coca-Cola. Six-year-olds should be consuming only 1400 calories per day.
The Harvard School of Public Health says that “eating at fast food restaurants has been associated with an additional 120 calories per day.”
However, there are great solutions and tips out there for parents who are having trouble getting their kids to eat healthy.
It doesn’t mean bad parenting if your child is overweight. It just means you need to start taking control and start early on giving your child a healthy diet.
There are great tips from just about every pediatrician in the United States on how to diet and exercise.
However, I’ve come to realize that kids learn better when they get to be “hands-on.”
North Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op offers programs and classes for parents and children to learn how to eat healthy.
“Our classes and programs are designed to teach parents and childrenhow to take delicious whole foods and make simple meals out of them andthat eating well doesn't need to be a daunting prospect,” Julia Thomas, Education Coordinator for the Co-op, said.
The Co-op lets children see how things are grown with a guided tour of the Co-op.
“I think that children need to experience food by seeing how it is grown, learning how to make it, and by tasting new foods,” Thomas said.
Hopefully programs like these can help decrease the obesity rate in children and can keep them living a full and healthy life. Best of all, these programs are absolutely free!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Big Mistake!
Walking into the Louis Vuitton store in San Francisco is a lot like going through airport security. I stood in a line at the door while the security guard searched the purses and bags of each person who was entering and thought, “Are they going to ask for my ID too?”
I entered the store and inhaled a distinctive scent of what, I know not, but I’m sure if the word “expensive” had a scent that would be it. I walked around the place, fascinated by the beautiful brown leather purses with the gold initials LV written all over them. There are even spotlights above the purses on the wall shelves. I was awed. All the while, my significant other is exclaiming at the “outrageous” prices of “just a purse” and that he could actually buy a car.
And then I saw it. “Perfection” was written all over it. It looked strikingly like the one Jennifer Aniston had. I had to have it—and even if I couldn’t have it, I just wanted to touch it. The purse was in a glass case and I looked around for a sales associate. My heart was pounding the words, “Open, open, open.” If love at first sight truly existed, this is probably what it would feel like.
There were no sales associates in sight. This was odd considering most sales associates in retail get paid based on commission. I thought there would be a flock of them smothering me but there were none.
I looked at the countertop for a bell to ring but instead a woman in a chocolate brown suit materialized and asked, “May I help you, miss?”
When I pointed at the purse, she raised an eyebrow at me. “This is $1095,” she said haughtily, not making the slightest gesture to open the case.
First of all, I don’t think I’d pay that much—not even for love. That’s not the point, however.
What does this scene remind of you of? I felt like Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” except I wasn’t wearing cut-off shorts and over-the-knee boots. Even if I had been, who was she to judge? Am I not the one paying and she not the one working?
“Excuse me?” I asked, and rudely too I might add.
She repeated the price just as haughtily and even had the audacity to raise her chin up a notch. My jaw almost dropped at the rudeness of this lady. I couldn’t believe this was actually happening in real life—and to me!
My boyfriend tugged on my arm and told me that we should leave through the corner of his mouth. I didn’t budge. I’m pretty sure my face turned a deep red from the anger boiling up inside of me.
I usually avoid making scenes but the snobby sales associate put me on the edge. I was on the brink of speaking my mind when something incredible happened. Someone stood up for me!
Another customer in the store said, “I think everyone here is aware of the price. The young lady asked if she could see it. Is that a problem? Should we ask your manager?”
My heroine!
“No, never mind. I’m not interested in it anymore,” I said.
I almost wanted to flip my hair at the sales associate. Instead, I reenacted the scene from “Pretty Women.”
“Do you get paid based on commission?” I asked the sales associate.
“Yes,” she answered, confused at my question.
“Big mistake,” I said. “Big mistake.”
I winked at my heroine, turned on my heel and left that Louis Vuitton store. Behind me, I saw my defender leave as well and saying very loudly, “That salesperson is so rude!”
I entered the store and inhaled a distinctive scent of what, I know not, but I’m sure if the word “expensive” had a scent that would be it. I walked around the place, fascinated by the beautiful brown leather purses with the gold initials LV written all over them. There are even spotlights above the purses on the wall shelves. I was awed. All the while, my significant other is exclaiming at the “outrageous” prices of “just a purse” and that he could actually buy a car.
And then I saw it. “Perfection” was written all over it. It looked strikingly like the one Jennifer Aniston had. I had to have it—and even if I couldn’t have it, I just wanted to touch it. The purse was in a glass case and I looked around for a sales associate. My heart was pounding the words, “Open, open, open.” If love at first sight truly existed, this is probably what it would feel like.
There were no sales associates in sight. This was odd considering most sales associates in retail get paid based on commission. I thought there would be a flock of them smothering me but there were none.
I looked at the countertop for a bell to ring but instead a woman in a chocolate brown suit materialized and asked, “May I help you, miss?”
When I pointed at the purse, she raised an eyebrow at me. “This is $1095,” she said haughtily, not making the slightest gesture to open the case.
First of all, I don’t think I’d pay that much—not even for love. That’s not the point, however.
What does this scene remind of you of? I felt like Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” except I wasn’t wearing cut-off shorts and over-the-knee boots. Even if I had been, who was she to judge? Am I not the one paying and she not the one working?
“Excuse me?” I asked, and rudely too I might add.
She repeated the price just as haughtily and even had the audacity to raise her chin up a notch. My jaw almost dropped at the rudeness of this lady. I couldn’t believe this was actually happening in real life—and to me!
My boyfriend tugged on my arm and told me that we should leave through the corner of his mouth. I didn’t budge. I’m pretty sure my face turned a deep red from the anger boiling up inside of me.
I usually avoid making scenes but the snobby sales associate put me on the edge. I was on the brink of speaking my mind when something incredible happened. Someone stood up for me!
Another customer in the store said, “I think everyone here is aware of the price. The young lady asked if she could see it. Is that a problem? Should we ask your manager?”
My heroine!
“No, never mind. I’m not interested in it anymore,” I said.
I almost wanted to flip my hair at the sales associate. Instead, I reenacted the scene from “Pretty Women.”
“Do you get paid based on commission?” I asked the sales associate.
“Yes,” she answered, confused at my question.
“Big mistake,” I said. “Big mistake.”
I winked at my heroine, turned on my heel and left that Louis Vuitton store. Behind me, I saw my defender leave as well and saying very loudly, “That salesperson is so rude!”
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