Inexpensive Summer Fun: Losing the Stress, Finding your Family

You work 60+ hours a week. You leave before the sun peaks over the horizon, and you come home long after the sun has returned to slumber. You eat cold leftovers, kiss your already sleeping children, and settle into bed next to a spouse that hasn’t actually spoken to you in 11 hours.

You’re thankful for the job you have, because so many are losing theirs, but you aren’t so thankful for the long hours, thankless achievements, and all the time spent away from those you love most in the world.

Does it have to be that way? Honestly, sometimes it does. Unfortunately, if you don’t work, you can’t really support those you love, but working takes you away from them as well.

So what you can do? Have you considered taking a vacation? Mind blowing isn’t it? What a truly novel idea- taking time off work and actually spending time with your family!

Do vacations have to mean two weeks of sun and accrued credit card debt? No, it could just be a weekend spent dedicated to having fun with your family. Not all vacations or family days have to empty the bank account- and here are a few ideas that will help you de-stress from work while soaking up the love of your family.

Backyard BBQs

One of the most important things that families should do together is eat. Food has brought families together for as long as man has been on earth. You’ve seen the commercials for Bushs’ Baked Beans, Oscar Mayer hot dogs, Johnsonville Brats, Kool-Aid, and other summer fun time treats…everyone is outside in the backyard, jumping into the swimming pool, piling delicious food onto their plates, and just enjoying their time together. 

You can do that too. A quick trip to your local grocery store for yummy BBQ favorites, a trip to Wal-Mart for fun sprinkler attachments or pool toys, and then everyone gathers in the backyard for family time that doesn’t have a huge price tag.

Dad gets to wear the “Kiss the Cook” BBQ apron, mom gets to don the big sun hat, and the kids get to try and make it poolside without slipping on the puddles of sunscreen they’re leaving in their wake. Fun times had by all, and the only thing you’ll have to stress about is making sure the burgers don’t burn.

A Lark in the Park

Never underestimate or overlook the simple family trip to the local park. Public parks or state parks are FREE. That means that you can take scenic hikes, swim in lakes, BBQ your favorite summer foods, watch as the kids play on the jungle gym (you could even join them if you’d like), and even take a family bike ride all without pulling out your wallet one single time.

Splish Splash

Two words that spell ‘awesome family memories’ and ‘inexpensive family fun’…water…park. Yes, those two words can also spell heat stroke, sun burn, and junk food overload, but family fun always carries with it the risk of unpleasant or uncomfortable events.

There are hundreds of water parks all over the US. Chances are that there is one only a few hours’ drive from where you live. That means that you can pack up the kids in the morning, take a drive into the afternoon, and spend the hottest part of the day cooling off in the waters of Wild Water Kingdom or Six Flags Water World. If you really want to make good use of the water park, you can buy a family summer pass for relatively cheap and spend every weekend there. Or, if you just want to make a single trip, you can stock up on coupons from local kids friendly eateries or libraries and get money off of each ticket you purchase.

Another way to save some money on your family water park fun is to bring your food with you. Most water parks don’t care that you bring food in with you, and this allows you to purchase lunch items at a big discount at the grocery store, and save the money you would have spent on overpriced concession items.

Make sure to take a lot of pictures, so that when the work week begins again, you have those precious memories to hold you over until you can get home to your family again.

Green Thumb Fun

One of the great things about summer is that it’s the perfect time for planting. If you have the space and don’t have an aversion to getting a little dirty, you can gather the family together, plan and then plant a summer garden. Not only does this give you time together as a family, you are also creating something that will continue to give back to the family over the rest of the year. Who doesn’t want to bite into a sweet garden tomato that was planted by loving hands in their own garden?

Fresh vegetables add flavor and fun to the dinner table, and it promotes healthy eating and sustainability.

You love your family, and working to provide for them is important, but so is taking the time out of your life to spend with those that mean the most. It doesn't have to cost much money, and what it provides in memories, shared time together, and fun is a price far above what any one person could pay in their lifetime.

So go out there and enjoy your Spirit for Living!

Eco-Chic at the Shore– What’s in your bag?

Finally, in New York, there have been some consistently good, sunny beach days and I’m quickly scrambling to set aside some time to soak up some sun.   Plenty of time to show off a nice healthy glow at my sister’s wedding in September.

Luckily there are several beaches nearby – and I’ve been surveying my friends on where they’ll be headed and when.  So beach destination is a ‘check’.

Next, I need to rummage through last year’s beach gear – found a couple of patterned bottoms and tops to bikinis, none of which match, is that in style though? Never mind, I think I’m going orange this year... 

Other musts for the beach are the skin care products to keep our skin from getting damaged, a beach towel and a nice tote to carry all my stuff there. 

I need to keep my products as natural and as eco-friendly as possible – what are my choices?  There are some really great affordable finds out there and I went on a hunt.  These unique products stood out - all of which are reasonably priced and can be purchased online.  Three Cheers – let the summer beach weekends begin!!

Dry lips - can't have that!  Try one of these two choices for organic lip balm:

·         Organic Essence, Organic Lip Balm ($4.99) – This balm contains USDA Certified Organic ingredients and also boasts less wasteful eco-friendly packaging as well!  Comes in great flavors such as Vanilla, Grapefruit and Mint!

·         Phoenix Botanicals, Organic Lip Balm (3 tubes for $16.00) – Made right here in New York with local plants in the Northeast.  Ingredients are all organic – flavors include rose, vanilla and mint.  

      

        Don't sweat it – enjoy this light and fresh body spray - 

·         SuperNatural Botanicals, Beach Body Spray ($12.00) – Light and refreshing spray that is clean and natural.  Made from oils, aloe and purified water - it is an instant natural aromatic pleasure.

        Wrap me very tight!  Check out these beach towels - 

     

        Bamboo Dreams®Beach Towels from Yala® ($39.50) – These colorful and fun towels are oh so soft, even for the most sensitive skin!  They are made from 70% viscose from Bamboo and 30% Organic Cotton.

        Look sun kissed, not sun slapped!  A natural sun screen –

Solar to Polar® Ultra ($29.00) - A great solution for people such as myself with sensitive skin – this product is made from •100% natural, 70%+ certified organic ingredients and still protects me from harsh sun rays.  It’s gentle, light and moisturizing.

Carry me to the shore!!  This tote carries it all!!

     

Rebagz, Carry Anything Anywhere Bag ($54.00) – I hate having the same bag as everyone else – cliché - I like to mix and match everyday wears with some unique finds.  Rebagz, Carry Anything Anywhere Bags were the answer to mixing up my beach gear.  I love the orange and silver – but those who really enjoy something uniquely bright – try the multi-color bag.

 What other organic and eco-friendly products are your favorites?  Enjoy the summer fun - enjoy the Spirit for Living!

  

3 Surprising Foods That May Be Aggravating Spring Allergies

by Frances Cheung, HHC, AADP

If you or someone you know is suffering from Spring allergies and wanting some effective solutions to reduce/maybe even eliminate those pesky symptoms - without side effects such as drowsiness or the frustration of anticipating these seasonal allergies for the rest of your life, then read on because you may find this article particularly useful. 

Many people are now experiencing Spring/seasonal allergies when they never experienced any symptoms in the past.  Others have noticed their symptoms getting worse and/or appearing earlier in the year.

As up to about 70-75% of your immune system is located in or around the gut, what you eat can most definitely have an impact on your allergies.

Here's how it works: certain foods, especially processed foods and sugar, weaken the immune system because they are nutrient deficient and actually pull minerals from your own bones to metabolize and process the refined foods.  This means the more you eat these foods, the more your nutrient reserves get depleted, leaving your body more susceptible to illnesses and disease, and yes, allergies.

By greatly reducing or eliminating these foods from your diet, you can boost your body's immune response and reduce allergy symptoms, since your body will not be under constant attack from the foods that you eat. 

However, while it's obvious that processed foods, sugar and white flour are not beneficial to your health, there is also another category foods that may catch you by surprise.  These foods often cause sensitivites or intolerances in individuals, and mimic the symptoms of seasonal allergies.  Left untreated, these food reactions can weaken the immune system over time, leaving the body more vulnerable to infections and possibly even disease.  Once you remove these foods from your diet and focus on building up a healthy gut and immune system overall, you'll likely feel a whole lot better.  Here are the top 3 food intolerances/sensitivities:

1.  Wheat/gluten

You may have noticed a growing number of foods at the supermarket or grocery store being labeled "gluten-free," where this category was practically non-existent perhaps just 7 years ago. But it is more than just a passing trend or a fad (just beware of reading labels to make sure you're not buying gluten-free junk food).  Growing numbers of people are becoming aware of sensitivity to wheat and/or gluten (the protein found in wheat, barley, rye).  There are a number of speculations on this, but possibilities include the way wheat is grown including genetically modified varieties, while others state that it is simply that people are becoming more and more aware of wheat/gluten allergies, intolerances and sensitivities*.  Whether you think it's hype or not, if you're suffering from sudden allergies or a worsening of allergies, I strongly urge you to go gluten-free for at least 14 days. 

2.  Dairy 

Many people are lactose intolerant, meaning they don't have the enzyme lactase that is necessary to digest the lactose protein in dairy.  Symptoms may include burping, belching, digestive discomfort, or the occasional breakout.  However, as mentioned above, over time, dairy intolerance may lead to more complicated health problems.  Dairy is also a mucus-forming food and many people experience relief from sinus infections and raspy throat after removing dairy - especially the commercial varieties - from their diet.

3.  Soy 

With so many dairy allergies and intolerances, along with many people going vegan and looking for a good and cheap protein source, soy has become an overly used food.  The problem with this is that most soy is highly processed and highly GMO (genetically modified).  They are found in so many foods - just look at your food labels - and while their effects may have been miniscule, because they are now everywhere, many people are now intolerant or allergic to soy, and many don't even know it.

Men, if you consume a lot of soy, you'll want to take note, because soy can also diminish your libido!  It's been said that monks regularly consume soy for this particular reason.

There are plenty of other dairy-free alternatives, including nut milks (almond, hazelnut, cashews, etc.), hemp milk, and coconut milk.  Of course, you should eliminate any foods to which you have known sensitivities, intolerances or allergies.

Removing the above common food sensitivities/intolerances is one core foundation of the 21-Day Recharge and Renew Program.  You'll also learn self-care rituals and yummy ways to enjoy nutrient-dense foods to jumpstart your way to a healthier you and start feeling more lean, strong and energized.  And, it's a lot easier than it sounds.  Join us here: http://www.francescheung.com/recharge-and-renew-program.

*There is a distinct difference between food allergies and sensitivities/intolerances, which is too detailed to go into here, but symptoms are often very similar.

============================================

Frances Cheung is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist & Wellness Coach, and works with men and women to double their energy, resolve digestive concerns and lose those last, stubborn 10-15 pounds for good, so they can be on top of their game, love the way they feel, and love what they see in the mirror — without going on crazy detoxes, militant exercise or losing their sanity.  To start receiving vaulable nutrition and lifestyle tips and insights from Frances, please visit www.francescheung.com.

A Day in the City with ‘Super Eco Girl’…

It’s an absolutely gorgeous Saturday and I’ve started the day by finishing up a juicy murder mystery on my Kindle before heading out the door just before 9am.  Along with my purse, I always carry a spare cotton bag to carry any of my day’s purchases (I just hate all those plastic bags…).

Today I have quite a list going – “to do’s” of which several will become “ to - didn’t really have time for that on this beautiful sunny day” before long.  But first, I’m headed only a few blocks away where several vintage and thrift shop stores line the street.

How lucky I am to have great vintage and thrift shops.  These are not the old, dusty shops that feel like you’re rummaging through your grandmother’s attic.  These shops are clean, neat, even some with trendy décor.  Racks are full of dresses, skirts, many well know designers such as DVF; gently worn, that are great to get another few years use out of. 

After raking through hangers of clothes from the shops in my neighborhood, I’m ready for some lunch.  Never a shortage of places to eat, but a favorite of mine is Caravan of Dreams.  The food is all organic, vegan and kosher certified so I know no pesky chemicals will enter my body today.  I order a glass of the sangria and the Caravan Burrito which is oh so yummy!

On TV, in magazines and other media I often see the "top 10" tips to being green or eco-friendly…and rarely do I see or hear “natural or organic eating” on the list.  Eating natural, whole foods and avoiding processed foods, is a key factor in helping the environment.  Why?  One example is chemicals used in farming and food production.  Many chemicals cannot be disposed of, leaving residue or traces in our drinking water, our produce and our animals. Heavy topic but in short eating whole non processed foods can make you feel energetic and healthy as well as helping the environment.

Last week, I was at this party wearing my new (lightly used) favorite top and some awkward individual’s can of beer tipped to far forward onto my sleeve.  So off next to the dry cleaners….

Many organic and natural dry cleaners have popped up in the last year.  Why did they start appearing? Well, interestingly the major synthetic chemical used in dry cleaning is linked with several side effects such as irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and throat.  It can also cause dizziness, headaches and nausea.  So due to more public scrutiny and the EPA watching, the industry has started to look for safer, less harmful ways to dry clean.   It turns out that California plans to phase out the major synthetic chemical used called perc by 2023.

And how fast the afternoon has come and I’m a little spent - looking for a nice bench to park on for a bit.  Many parks hide in and around the pavement of the city.  I walk past this small neighborhood one and find a small little quiet area.  It's lovely - surrounded by lush plants and newly planted tulips and other spring flowers.  I take out my Kindle and try to find another great murder mystery to start….

Inspirational Women Series #2 - Patricia Adkins

My favorite entries –the inspirational women who surround me…

The second inspirational woman that I’d like to introduce is Patricia Adkins. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Patricia for many years…she’s that “one of a kind” childhood friend. She lives in Lindenwold, New Jersey with her loving husband, Mike and daughters, Lily and Chloe. She is a wife, mother, philanthropist and writer to name just a few. Patricia has a heart of gold and is a true kindred spirit. She is a wonderful friend and you’ll see why I she is an inspiration.

What is a typical weekday like for you?

My weekdays are filled with getting my oldest (Lily) to school, entertaining my youngest (Chloe) and trying to squeeze in work. I try to plan my yoga lesson plans with my girls--they have a lot of fun on the mat--so it is a nice way to work and play. I try to fit writing and researching in when they are asleep (although I've done an occasional interview while hiding in the bathroom).

How does your day start?

It should be yoga, but with two little ones, my yoga practice has to wait. First, I check my calendar and then mentally make my 3 goals for the day while I get dressed. Then it is the mad dash to school and whatever activities my youngest has.

What are your first thoughts upon waking up?

Can I go back to sleep?

When you are not running around…What do you do to unwind?

...read, take a yoga class, drink wine, play Barbie’s with my kids, get a massage...

What are your favorite hobbies or activities?

I love spending time outside--time in country at farms or a park or at the beach or on a mountain. I also love being outside in the city--a whole other environment with so many amazing things to discover. We love to travel and discover-even if our travel just takes us a few miles away.

With whom do you love sharing these experiences with?

With my girls and my Mike. I love sharing the world my three loves.

Who or What drives your Spirit for Living?

A long time ago, I was most passionate about my career. Then I had Lily and a few years later, Chloe. I am most passionate about my children--and the world we are building for them. I want to leave this world better--I want my children to make the world better for my grandchildren, for everyone's grandchildren.
 
I think we all have a purpose--some deep, divine path that is ours alone. Finding my path and walking it--that drives me.


In our house, God is first, always. Some days we have to remind ourselves of this--knowing that we have God's unconditional love drives my spirit and I hope to build the same legacy for my children.

I’ve always admired your affiliations to and work for nonprofits. Which ones are you favorites and why? Or which ones do you contribute to and why?

There are so many amazing charitable organizations. Many large organizations work to make major political, social and educational changes on a macro-scale; while the smaller grassroots organizations drive local change in communities (both geographic communities and those communities formed by a common goal). My favorite is Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. It is close to our family's heart because of Lily's brain tumor--but Alex's is bigger than cancer. The organization was founded by a little girl--Alex Scott--who was really sick. She wanted to help other children who were also sick. And when she died at the age of 9, she had raised over $1 million. Her spirit has inspired other children and adults to make a difference everywhere. This message of hope and action reverberates beyond cancer. It is a beautiful thing.

And personally, Alex's Lemonade Stand gave me hope when Lily was in-patient at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. I heard Alex's mother, Liz Scott, speak and thought, wow, this woman lost her daughter and here she is--helping all of us cancer-moms, save ours. In so many ways, Liz Scott saved me that day. She gave me hope.

We host a Lemonade stand on our front lawn each June-last year we raised nearly $10,000. Other charities we love: Friends of Jaclyn Foundation--an organization that matches children with brain tumors with collegiate sports teams. Lily was adopted by the Temple University Woman's Lacrosse team. She is their sister and it really gives her exposure to inspirational, positive women.

I also love St. Jude's--which provides free and cutting edge medical care to sick children. So many of our cancer-friends were treated at St. Judes. We are forever grateful for their continued health.

And I love the work of The International Ecotourism Society (my first post-college employer) and for their work to make travelers into sensitive, "green" and respectful individuals. They also work with the travel industry to create best practice models for sustainable, sensitive and diverse travel opportunities. Becoming an eco-tourist is a fun and wonderful way to make a positive impact on the environment.

In Philadelphia, I've recently discovered Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit that provides needy children (from birth to teenager) with the things they need -clothes, toys, gear, shoes, underwear. They accept gently used items--so it is a great way to recycle your old stuff without throwing it out.

How can others look to get involved? What do you suggest as first steps?

As a professional, I use my skills and expertise to make an impact. I try to host 2x monthly karma yoga classes to raise money or collect items (like for Cradles to Crayons) for organizations that need it. I've also volunteered as a writer, a PR girl and just as a helper. I think every individual has a cause that is dear to their hearts. Sometimes something just speaks to you--and that is what drives your donation. While, I am not an advocate for bragging about donations--I think we all have a duty to share what causes speak to us and what causes need our help. If it speaks to you--chances are it will speak to your friends too.

Connecting with Others - In the Spirit for Living!

February brought one can be the most romantic of holidays - Valentine’s Day. Many receive tokens of love in the form of candy, chocolates, roses and for those lucky ones, perhaps a spa treatment…I’m really due for one. But what I always make sure to remind myself and others – it’s as important to give love to others as it is to ‘love you’. Loving yourself means taking a few minutes out of every day to stay in tune with your needs, your wants, your hopes and dreams.


I just moved back into New York City from a long stint in the suburbs. I was drawn to all that the city offers – culture, interesting people, the amazing Central Park. It promised a new and exciting day in what was increasing becoming a mid-thirties life crisis (hopefully this won’t become a decennium habit). So with all this excitement, came trying to find fellow Manhattan’ites who I could eventually call a friend. I’ve moved many times before but each time does not make it any easier. Short of wearing a sign that says ‘befriend me, I’m not weird or crazy’, what can we do to connect with our fellow man/woman?

Connecting with people is so important because staying fit also includes a fit mind. Nutrition, work/life balance and keeping active are all key factors, of course. But for me and most others, I believe connecting with people on various levels is a major piece of the equation.

Past moves have led me to the following strategies to meet new people:

Meetup.com

I actually first heard of this site a few years ago from a childhood friend who had recently become a mother. She found a nice group of other newbie moms in the area to meet up with.

I went on to the site and typed in New York and was pleasantly surprised to see quite a few interesting groups – from the eccentric to traditional mommies and sport groups – there seems to be something for almost everyone. I’d probably lean more to a sport or movie or language where I wouldn’t (or couldn’t) be put on the spot as soon as I joined.

RentAFriend.com

This is a site is one I literally just heard about from a friend of a friend. They are considering a cross country move, where they would be starting fresh. So they mentioned this site as a way they could start meeting and getting introduced to locals.

Upon visiting their site (which I must admit is a bit cheesy) I feel that I’d need some references of those who have tried this successfully….the fact that the images of people look like they’re from college may speak to only certain groups of people.

Professional associations

I like these because I’m achieving two goals – helping to meet new people and also helping with professional development. So if you’re a full time career woman, you can find someone to gab to about how the economy has affected your industry as well as perhaps grab a drink after work with. There are associations for almost every trade – all you have to do is go to a search engine to research.

Take a class at your local community college

This one is always classic – I’ve taken quite a few classes over the years. It’s helped keep my mind fresh, my resume stand out and also extend my network.

Try a free trial at your local gym

Most gyms have a free day trial (some two days or longer). A day at the gym at least makes your body feel good and by chance you can end up talking to the person next to you in the locker room about what they think of being a member. It could end up being a future gym buddy.

If you are spiritual or religious – try a class or study group

Anything from a Bible study class to a meditation or yoga class - people that attend these types of classes are typically a little more open minded and friendly towards newcomers. It can be a way to cleanse your soul as well as find a little companionship.

Community work or volunteering

Lastly, I’ve found if I’m feeling down or lonely, take the focus off me. I’ve found myself doing various volunteering over the years. I’ve done everything from the soup kitchen to reading to children during lunchtime. There are so many great efforts and initiatives out there, helping so many people, it’s just a great way to focus outwards and also to meet some other really great people. (Try http://charitynavigator.org/ to research charities for volunteerism or donation.)



Really, meeting new people is a bit chance and a bit enough bravery to say ‘hello’ to another human being. It is sometimes difficult to overcome the thought of rejection but the few times I’ve dared, I have had at the very least a polite exchange. But I can honestly say that other times; I have met the most interesting people and the closest friends.

Drive your Spirit for Living!

In the Spirit for Living – My 2011 New Year’s Resolutions

As I reflect on 2010, it was a year of new beginnings (moving out of our home after 6 years; replacing our car) and significant growth (more work responsibilities, more travel, and more connections with people). In addition, I’ve been proud to work on Spirit for Living which launched in September 2010 and four months later we closed the year having come out with our first line of organic and natural basics. An added benefit was that we really connected with some great people –great active spirited women that share a common goal of living life to its fullest. I hope to continue this conversation with you in 2011. For those of you who have asked – we’re working on a few new tops and adding some accessories. Very soon! We’ve listened to your comments and feedback from this past fall and we are diligently working to make this a community driven brand of clothing.

This year, I am setting myself to similarly high standards for both personal and professional growth…yes, I’m a bit of a classic overachiever (which brings all kinds of emotional ups and downs). I am in the Spirit for Living and I pledge to live a more healthy life that encompasses not only the physical, but overarching mental and spiritual, elements to personal well being.


Physical. I pledge to challenge my body even further this year – gosh after all these years this is still #1. Physical fitness is not a sprint it is a marathon! I challenge myself every year to physically try something new – or keep up with an old favorite.

I’d like to ski more this winter - In New York, we’ve already had 3 snow storms after lackluster amounts of snowfall the past couple of years. And the most exciting pledge is to take my 3 and ½ year old nephew skiing for the very first time! I think he could be the next ski star!

To hiking more this spring – the East Coast does have some great mountains and trails. My husband is my favorite camping & hiking partner!

To swimming more this summer – This is really more of a challenge. I am definitely not what people would call a great or even a good swimmer… and actually the water has always posed a bit of fear in me. However, I’m thinking of possibly signing up for another triathlon sprint. And that sport dictates a swim….

And to go for jogs more this fall on the East River. I love running and jogging alone – this is when I best can clear my mind…realize my priorities in life.

What are your favorite activities? Do you do them with your friends or family? I always love to hear what other activities people find joy in….

Mental. I pledge to rejuvenate my mind by reading and spending quality time with family this year.

My niece and nephew are my two favorite little people in the world. I want to help them learn and enjoy many different experiences in life. Our family recently took them on their first train ride with Santa. It was no secret that I enjoyed it as much (or probably even more) then they did!

This past year I also took my nephew to the Zoo for the first time - he stared at that alligator - no fear!

I pledge to try to purchase new books on my Kindle (instead of a physical text) in my effort to nourish the earth. I enjoy the relaxation and mental stimulation that reading provides so I promise that I will continue to do more this year. My mother in law just sent me an Agatha Christie book which is next on my list. On my Kindle, my first download will be Bill Bryson – his novels are must reads!


Spiritual. I pledge to nourish my spirit by finding time just for myself. Finding time to be outdoors, enjoy what natural beauty and resources were given to us. And just to clear my mind.

I will reflect on the many positive things around me and within me. I will smile more and laugh more. I will be more in tune with my emotions and actions and gravitate towards all things positive.

So to end, I’d like to add one more resolution:

I pledge to bring greater awareness of Spirit for Living to women across the world in effort to build a strong foundation rooted in personal connectivity and shared consciousness.

I am in the Spirit for Living and I wish you a healthy, happy and active 2011!