Like fashion, Spring has arrived earlier then ever this year! It is time to put away our wool coats and mittens and invite the Spring to New England! As we all know, it proves to be difficult looking at magazines and celebraties for “realistic” advice as to what is “in” this season. Although we would all like to be able to afford the latest Gucci or Armoni, the reality of purchasing a single pair of slacks for $500 is unrealistic for the average consumer. But not to worry, there are many alternatives to dressing the part of a Trend Setter! Ann Taylor, WhiteHouse/Black Market, and even TJMAXX and Marshell’s all provide us with trend setting appareal to fullfill everyone’s unique personalities and needs. With the recession hitting on everyone’s pocket, the higher end retail stores such as Ann Taylor and White House/Black Market have resorted to daily promotions to keep up their clientele; while department stores are slashing their prices and broadening their selections!

So what to look for when you are browsing amoungst the goods? In 2012, Bold Print, dramatic seam work, and Color, Color, Color are piled up high on the shelves! Graphic, Bold Missoni is being brought back in full force from the 70’s in all widths, shapes, colors, and sizes. Jazz inspired drop-waist dresses with a-line neckline allows for a cool, sleek look and maximum comfort. For the cooler weather, Tuxedo, wide leg trouser’s pair nicely with any casual or formal attire. Draping in tonal blue-grey florals allows for a dramatic and moody feel and is easily paired with bold, vibrant oranges or soft hue pastels; the color pallet for 2012. And, as always, it is classic to have the boyfriend cut jacket as a part of you wardrobe along with a classic pencil skirt, kitten heeled shoes, and your favorite trench raincoat. As for accessories, not much has changed. We still are finding the large, dramatic chunky jewels as our “go to pieces” to complete the total package as well as our oversized, belt purses are must haves.

So, what is the biggest fad of 2012? Off the shoulder, in every form! Dresses, shirts, and even jackets are coming with one or two bare shoulders. But realistically, as we can all see, anything now a day goes! Pair almost any of these fads together and call it your own! Yes, you too can become “That Girl” or “That Guy” who has it together and the total package by obiding by these fashion guidelines! And thanks to Great promotions and reasonable retailer’s, everyone can become their own trend setter this year!

Whether you rent, own, or are just squatting on a friend’s couch for a few months, there’s nothing like having beautiful things to look at when you’re at home. The harsh truth, though, is that not everyone’s adept at the whole home-decor thing; in fact, it can cause a bit of panic for some for lots of reasons. Does this odd metal wall “sculpture” really speak to who I am – or is it just appealing because it’s on sale at HomeGoods? Do I like this weird painting just because it’s $650 and looks like “real” art? Does this random frame with a quote in it really represent me or am I only getting it because quotes are “in” right now? It doesn’t need to be so difficult! You can make your place look beautiful – and like you – using things you already have, whether they’re actual things or just inspiration from something you have or love.

I realized this when I was frantically searching for something to hang on the wall above my couch. I was agonizing over it for weeks, wondering if I should splurge on the vintage prints I found online because they looked cool or if I should buy a cheap canvas set I saw on some artsy website. The stuff I was considering would have been ok for me, but I decided that I really prefer to have art that means something, not just a random, mass-produced something-or-other. So I drove to the three most meaningful places that my husband and I share (aww) and took some photos. (Ok, you want details? I went to the three restaurants located at each of the meaningful places we share. We love to eat – what can I say?! You can choose any photo(s) you want, I promise!) Anyway, I took a bunch of pictures, picked my favorites, uploaded them to a photo website (I use Kodak Gallery, but any site will do), ordered prints, found some inexpensive frames at Target, and am impatiently waiting for the prints to be delivered so I can complete my project. I’m getting giddy just writing about it! I never felt this way after looking at the framed “Live. Laugh. Love.” poster, let me tell you.

So my advice to you is this: If you can’t find art/decor/anything that makes you crazy-happy when you look at it, get creative and make it yourself! Take some photos, have your kids work on some drawings, frame the menu from your favorite restaurant (see my theme here? Sorry!), cut a piece of your favorite fabric and put it in a frame, frame your most cherished greeting card… the list is endless if you really take the time to think about it!

Already tried your hand at creating your own artwork? Share your project(s) with us!

When I was visiting my older brother in Long Island this summer he took me to a place that I have repeatedly dreamed about revisiting. It is a frozen yogurt shop called “16 Handles” where there are 16 ever-changing flavors and toppings to choose from. The shop is set up self-serve style where you choose your cup size, yogurt flavors, and toppings before paying for your treat by the ounce. If you’re craving a simple chocolate and vanilla mix with sprinkles, have at it. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous go ahead and add a little bit of red velvet yogurt, a hint of mango yogurt, a sprinkle of coconut yogurt, and top it all off with fresh pineapple and Oreos.

Slowly but surely we’re hopping on the band wagon here in Lowell. As I was leaving the gym the other night and headed to the ATM on Rte. 110 I couldn’t help but notice a glowing sign that read “FROZURT” and was begging for me to go and see what it was all about. Nothing like a little treat after the gym, right?

When I walked inside I started talking to the owner, Odom Eang, who said he opened up the shop a few months ago and was already starting to see success even through the colder months. There was a younger worker there to offer samples of the 6 flavors of the week that are available and walk you through the process if you have any questions.

They offer a variety of over 40 toppings ranging from fresh fruits including blackberries, strawberries, kiwi and pineapple, to all kinds of candy bars including butterfingers, heath bars, snickers, and even raw cookie dough. For the health conscious “frogurter” there are nuts and granola as well.

Once you’ve completed your masterpiece you head to the register where you’re charged by weight, $0.42/oz, I find a typical serving size (not FDA approved that is) to cost around $4-5.00 a cup. They only take CASH, but are conveniently located next door to a Bank of America. They’re open 7 days a week 12pm-10pm and are located at 724 Chelmsford Street in Lowell. I highly suggest checking this place out. I returned for my second time Thursday night at 8pm and the place was packed, there weren’t any seats available and a line to start filling your cup…everyone must agree with me that it’s always fun to feel good about eating frozen yogurt and then loading it up with chocolate candy bars!

It seems like the head cold is really making its rounds these days…whether I’m at the gym, at work or at home I can hear sniffling and sneezing (myself included). The nasal congestion finally made its way to my nose this week so I started to research home remedies, optimistically hoping to clear up my sniffles at a rapid pace without the help of DayQuil. I came across many homeopathic remedies; here are two that intrigued me the most. I’m sure to give them a try.

What are some of your favorite home remedies?

Tomato Tea Recipe:
• Add 1 cup tomato juice,
• 1 tsp chopped fresh garlic,
• 1/2 tsp of hot sauce,
• 1 tsp lemon juice,
• and a pinch or two of celery salt for flavor

Heat ingredients and drink hot. After drinking this recipe, your sinus congestion will disappear quickly. All of these ingredients not only work on the immediate symptoms, but add plenty of vitamin C to fight a cold, and garlic to fight infection.

Gin-Soaked Golden Raisins Recipe:
• Add 1/2 cup gin,
• 1 handful golden raisins

Put golden raisins in a shallow bowl and barely cover with gin. Soak for a minimum of one hour. Allow the gin to evaporate; then eat approximately nine raisins. After evaporation, nine raisins contain about one drop of alcohol. Gin soaked golden raisins is an old natural home remedy for head congestion. It is very effective and works quickly. Chew the raisins and the natural aroma of the raisins with gin will open your airways and relieve head congestion. Just eat in moderation!

School vacation is here and for many lucky families this means warm, sunny destinations, quick get-a-ways and airports. With gas prices so high, some cities still close to $4 a gallon, flying for most families is the best money saving way to travel. Here are a few tips when it comes to traveling in airports over school vacation.

Plan ahead.
Are you a list maker or one who throws everything in a bag and buys what you need or forget when you get to your destination? Either way it’s best to pack a day or more before your flight to avoid the last minute run around of “where did I put this and where’s that?” To make things even easier many airlines offer the convenience of checking in to your flight 24 hours in advance. You can even printing your tickets from home if you have a printer. This will save lots of time at the airport of waiting in long lines just to get your boarding passes.

Don’t forget your doctor’s notes and always remember 3-1-1
Airports in the last 10 years have cracked down on what can and cannot be brought on an airplane especially liquids. 3-1-1 is the best way to remember what is allowed in your carry on so you’re no throwing away that brand new bottle of Pantene you bought for the trip. All liquids must be 3oz containers or less. These containers must be in 1 quart sized clear zip lock bag and taken out of your carry on luggage and placed on the security belt. Each passenger is allowed only 1 zip lock bag. Some exceptions can be made if you are traveling with infants or have a doctor’s note requiring other wise so be sure you have that on hand with your ID and boarding pass at security.

Safe money on those high airport parking fees!
Although many large airports like Boston Logan Airport are offering huge savings on long term parking over February vacation you have other choices! Why spend and extra $200 on parking when you could spend it on the parks!? Ask a friend or relative that might not be going away on vacation if they would be willing to bring you. I usually offer to let them use my car (and my full tank of gas) for the week in exchange. If this option is not available take a bus or an airport service shuttle. Many of the airport shuttles are free for kids under the age of 12 and can still save hundreds.

Arrive an hour to two before your flight is due to board.
The last thing you’ll want to do is miss your flight so plan to arrive early for any and all those unexpected delays that airports bring. Checking luggage can easily be done at the curb rather than wait in a long line inside but make sure you have the $2 per bag to tip to ensure you’re luggage arrives at the right place and on time. Be ready when you get up to security with your ID, boarding passes, and any doctors notes that you would need. Wear not only comfortable shoes but something that will be easy to slip on and off easily as security will make you remove shoes, belts, and anything in your pockets. (I always bring an extra pair of socks to change into after my once clean socks become dirty from walk on the airport floor).

Bring a book or your homework for the plane or delays.
Arriving early for your flight is the safe bet but some times this can leave you with a lot of down time. You’ll want something to keep you and the kids occupied while waiting and on the plane ride to make it go by faster so if you enjoy reading or crosswords this is the place to do it! When I was younger my parents always had me bring my homework. Many children, once they’ve reach middle school will have homework over vacation this is the time to get it done. It might be a struggle at first but they will thank you later when they can just enjoy vacation.

Lastly, you’re on vacation, enjoy your time off don’t bring the office or stresses of home with you.

How many of you have been onto Etsy.com? If not, I want to introduce you to one of the most FABULOUS websites to visit! Etsy is a site that focuses on handmade and vintage items as well as arts & craft supplies. It is truly the world’s most AMAZING handmade marketplace! You can find anything from unique jewelry to handmade clothing to repurposed furniture! It is really quite an experience! On Etsy you have the ability to contact the sellers with questions and leave feedback after you have received your purchase. It’s like a creative cross between Amazon and Ebay. You have the option to pay by credit card or through paypal as well, making it super easy to make your purchases! You can search amongst the 800,000 amazingly creative sellers and find just about anything and everything you can imagine. What I love about Etsy is that there are so many unique items to purchase! If any of you have been on pinterest, A LOT of those pieces you see are available on Etsy. You can’t imagine the things you will find! It is such an addictive site so I must warn you, once you visit Etsy it is VERY hard to leave!! Happy Shopping!!

Worcester, Massachusetts has many charms and none are more appreciated than the collection of unique restaurants and eateries. Foodies come from near and far to enjoy the offerings of these culinary hot spots. One restaurant group stands out among the rest, Niche Hospitality Group has 5 restaurants throughout Worcester each catering to specific taste. I could go on and on about all of the different locations but for now we’ll talk Mexican food.

When I’m craving the perfect margarita and Mexican food this is the place to go. They have an impressive cocktail menu but I recommend the house margarita, upgrade to 1800 tequila and you won’t be disappointed. Next I go for the guacamole flight, three types of guac feature fruit, corn nuts and the original. Did I mention it is made fresh and served traditionally in a molcajete? As for the main meal you can’t go wrong. Most recently I enjoyed the Salmon Vera Cruz, perfectly cooked salmon simmered with bell pepper and served with mint tomato salsa, simply amazing!

Mezcal Tequila Cantina- 166 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester. http://www.nichehospitality.com/

Water, that is.

You know where to find it. It’s everywhere. It’s the most accessible beverage on the planet. So why is it that most Americans are not getting enough? I hear people say, “Water is so boring. I can’t just drink plain water.” Yes you can and you should! Our bodies are in constant need of water replenishment. They depend on it to function properly. I found the following article online to be very informative. I would encourage you to click on it and seriously think about your own “water habits”.

http://www.shapefit.com/water-benefits.html

If you are not drinking water regularly everyday, you need to start. Bring a large water bottle with you to work – 20 oz or larger. Set a goal for the time that you are going to finish it by. Then refill it and set another time goal. It will be difficult in the beginning and you will feel like there is no way you can get through all of that water. But if you stick to it every day, you will be amazed and won’t even realize how much you are drinking anymore. It will become habit. Your body will adapt to it. Yes, you will find yourself heading to the restroom a little more frequently, but it is good for your body to get up and move throughout the day, which can be difficult when you work behind a desk all day. So welcome the chance to move and stretch your body.

My water bottle is 32 oz. I drink a minimum of 3 of these every day. Do the math. That’s 96 oz or more everyday. That does not include the water I drink during my workouts. I try to have the first round done by 11am, the 2nd round done by 2pm and the 3rd round done – or close to being done by the end of the work day. There are some days where I never even have to think about it and then there are others where I am really busy and realize that I haven’t been drinking enough water that day. So it’s good to have a schedule to stay on track with.

I’m not saying you have to drink 96oz of water everyday like me. But you should be drinking at least 8 – 8oz glasses every day. The other thing to remember is that is should be spread out during the day. Your body needs the constant replenishment. So don’t try to get it all in at the same time. You will see in no time you will be drinking water without even thinking about it. Then, you will start craving it! Imagine that!!

So I challenge you today….if you are not drinking enough water – start right now!

I’m a Disney freak. I love everything Disney, especially Pixar. One of my all time favorite love stories is UP. (even though Carl and Ellie are only in it together for about ten minutes into the movie) The main point of the movie is adventure, and going on adventures while you can enjoy them in life, not waiting until it is too late.

Here is my latest adventure. We are going on vacation in a few weeks, (18 days to be exact, but who is counting…) to, you guessed it, Disney World, YES, again… I told you I love Disney. Anyway, while we are there, we are celebrating a late Valentine’s Day and early anniversary, by going to Queen Victoria’s Room at The Grand Floridian Resort. This is a very exclusive and expensive, once in my life time experience. It is an elegant 4 hour event with a 10 course meal, your own butler, and many foreign foods… Well, foreign to me. (such as quail, elk, sweetbreads, caviar) Here is something you may not know. I am a wicked picky eater. I am one of a few New Englanders who HATE seafood. I love all vegetables and fruits, but when it comes to meat, if it’s not chicken or beef, i cringe and have a VERY hard time trying anything different. In fact, I tried lamb for the first time a couple weeks ago. Even though it was tasty, I could not get into the whole “mind over matter” and it took everything I had not to spit it out. I know, awful right?

I was talking to a friend regarding this dinner, and how I am actually a bit nervous, as I really do want to try different things, but I don’t know how to train my brain so to speak, to let me enjoy them. She could not comprehend this as she would try pretty much any kind of food. I told her that I just want to be able to try things with out getting the urge to get it out of my mouth because of what it is, not on how it tastes. She showed me an article in a magazine talking about self control and how to try new things. This article said to open doors, brush your teeth, drink, with the opposite hand that you use on a daily basis. After you can do that comfortably and get over those small hurdles, jumping the hills won’t seem so bad.

This may sound so silly to some of you… (you can stop laughing now…) but it’s huge to me. So, adventure is out there, and I am ready to find it! Or taste it…I want to be sure to fill up my adventure book with new sights, new sounds, new tastes, and new memories!

It’s February. New Year resolutions are all but forgotten, it’s cold outside, getting out of bed early is practically impossible, and it’s way more tempting to go straight home after work and curl up under a blanket on the couch in front of the TV than it is to do anything else. Don’t get me wrong – it feels incredible to hit the snooze button for 45 minutes straight and to be in your pajamas 30 seconds after you walk in the door at the end of the day (you can’t really disagree with me on this, come on). But what good is any of that? Your days turn into nothing more than a pretty lazy sequence of events: you get up out of bed after sleeping 8 hours (ok, more like 5 or 6 for most people, I bet), you sit in your car and drive to work, you sit at your desk and do your work, you sit in your car on the way home from work, and you sit on the couch after work until you go to bed and sleep for several more hours before you get up and repeat the same cycle the very next day. Hello, inactivity! When you look at things that way, don’t you think it’s time to get up & get moving?

A year ago, after seeing how sedentary my life had become, I decided to get up and just do something. Don’t get me wrong – I’m no gym rat by any standards; I don’t even have a gym membership! For me, the answer was walking. Walking seemed like a no-brainer because it’s pretty easy and the price – free – is definitely right. I started off with a turtle’s-pace, 3-mile stroll around my neighborhood and, before I knew it, I worked my way up to 5-mile power walks several times a week. For me, it’s just what I need to erase the sluggish feeling of body and mind that comes with inactivity.

What works for one person, however, may not cut it for another. I’ve talked to plenty of people who tell me there’s no way they could feel they’ve had a workout just by walking; they need to run or lift weights or play a sport to feel they’ve accomplished something. So I did a little digging to see what kind of programs and options are out there for fitness buffs in the Metro West area. Turns out – there’s a lot you could do! Check out the links below and tell me: What do YOU like to do besides channel surf the nights away?

– Breathe Wellness is on Cook Lane in Marlborough. I pass by it when I’m out for my walks and the parking lot is always full, so they must be doing something right! Yoga’s on my to-try list for this year – any words of advice?
– New Life Health & Wellness is in the Courtyard Marriott on Felton Street in Marlborough. They offer personal training, corporate fitness, and group classes – including Zumba, my other to-try for this year. Everyone else seems to love it; do you?
– Wayside Raquet & Swim Club is on Broadmeadow Street in Marlborough (right around the corner from Princeton Green Apartments!). Their offerings include raquetball & tennis, aquatics, and lots of youth programs to help get your kids away from their game consoles. What a novel idea!