Monthly Archives: December 2014

Dec 30 2014
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Figgy Pudding in 2015

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I have always had a special fondness for the carol

“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” . 

In particular, I love the part that goes:

Now bring us some figgy pudding
Now bring us some figgy pudding
Now bring us some figgy pudding
And a cup of good cheer

We won’t go until we get some
We won’t go until we get some
We won’t go until we get some
So bring it right here

As a little girl, I found the concept of figgy pudding unbearably hilarious.

I have no explanation for why. Continue reading »

Dec 29 2014

Growing Vertically

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Small-Space Gardening isn’t a new concept, but a lot of would-be gardeners forget that it is a viable option. Truly, no space is too small for growing food. 104_0225 If you think that you are limited in your gardening endeavors because you live in an apartment or because your yard is microscopic, take heart! Continue reading »

Dec 27 2014
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What’s in My Pantry

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As each calendar year draws to a close, it is only natural that one takes stock of one’s life; examining eating and exercise habits in particular.

I was inspired to share after reading the article, on Yahoo Health.

Both Probiotics and Prebiotics are important for Gastrointestinal Health.

Probiotics are the “good” bacteria (live cultures) naturally occurring in the stomach.  These active cultures help balance gut flora by reproducing more good bacteria.  A good balance helps boost immunity and overall health, particularly the aforementioned Gastrointestinal Health.  Probiotics can be used to treat stomach issues like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), food allergies and lactose intolerance.

Prebiotics are the foods that help the Probiotics along.  They are good bacteria “promoters”.  Prebiotics and Probiotics work together to achieve Gastrointestinal Health.

Gastrointestinal Health is important for more than just happy tummies.  More and more scientific research is pointing towards intestinal bacteria playing an influential role in managing mental disorder symptoms.  Continue reading »

Dec 23 2014
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The Jewish Side

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For the past week, temperatures have been unseasonably warm.  When I went running today, it was nearly 78 degrees outside!

I incorporated the Dunlawton Bridge in today’s workout.  I was recently inspired to reintroduce inclines back  into my workouts.  When I was living in Tallahassee, I kept in great racing condition from hill running, and I want to work towards that level of fitness now that I am at a stable weight.

Despite the warm weather, I have been feeling festive by participating Holiday Festivities like I mentioned in this post.  Continue reading »

Dec 19 2014

The Bleak Mid-Winter

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For the past two months, I have been struggling with a significant Depressive Episode.  A Depressive Episode is an unavoidable phase of the Bipolar Cycle and, for me, it manifests itself through feelings of irritability, anxiety, emptiness and hopelessness. 

I have also really been struggling with self-worth, concentrating and making decisions. 

To counteract that badness inside, I have been running a lot of miles and consuming Dopamine-Increasing and Anxiety-Reducing foods, like this yummy stir-fry here:

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Green Bell Pepper, Zucchini, Purple Onion, Garlic, Black Pepper and Coconut Oil.

Continue reading »