Here We Are...with Luci

Where Are You? Three Simple Steps To Keep You Going

Part 6 of the Here We Are series, Live Your Life Out Loud

Today is day #208 of 2010. There are five months or 157 days left in the year to do what you set out to do this year. Where are you so far with your hopes, dreams, plans for the year? It is as good a time as any to reassess, reevaluate, and remind yourself of what it is you want to achieve or accomplish.

First, acknowledge and reward yourself for those things that have been completed. Then analyze the items idling on your list. Are they still important to you or meaningful in your life? If the answer is YES, rewrite them with a new perspective of what you've learned this year; write a "how you can get it done now" plan beside each item.

Second, if the answer is NO, but you don't want to give up on the item, don't feel pressure; instead, take the time to think about why it wasn't done. If it is still possible and probable that you can do it, rewrite it and decide "how you can get it done" on or before the year's end.

Third, if your current circumstances prevent it from happening, it is no longer important to you, or meaningful in your life, admit that this item is a NEVER and cross it off the list. Say, "goodbye, so long, farewell!" This admission with a definitive send off will provide you with a sense of relief. Be happy, you are free of it once and for all.

Keep moving forward from where you are now using these three simple steps. At the end of the year, you will get to where you are going!

The Farmer's Market: Go Prepared To Pick

Whether you are planning to attend a Saturday morning Farmer's Market, or happen to be driving by one, be prepared to pick fresh, local produce anytime. With a few minutes of planning and packing, you'll be ready at a moment's notice week after week throughout the Farmer's Market selling season.

Here is a "go prepared to pick" list to help you take home the newly harvested ingredients in an easy, enjoyable way:

1. Bring cash in small bills, and a full change purse. This will move you through the line quickly; some vendors don't take credit cards at certain market locales.

2. A hat and sunglasses are a must, as is a comfortable pair of sneakers. If the market is in a parking lot, it gets very hot and rarely is there shade. Also, keep an umbrella in the car so you can take your time on a rainy day as you walk the stands.

3. Dig out the old cooler in the basement and leave it in the trunk of your car. This will be invaluable on hot days to keep your greens crisp. It will also buy you time if you have to make a stop on the way home.

4. Next to the cooler, put a small, sturdy cardboard box to hold purchases like apples, potatoes, ears of corn, jars of pickles, etc. They won't roll around and when the box gets dirty, you can recycle it. 

5. Carry a large tote bag that has a sturdy shoulder strap with an inside zipper for your wallet. This eliminates the need for a purse, freeing up your hands to pick the produce. When you aren't at the market, keep the tote bag (sans wallet) stored in the box so it is always with you for an unexpected stop.

6. Bring a bottle of water in your tote bag. You may want to keep a spray-on sunscreen in the cooler for exposed arms and legs.

7. Keep the following "kit" in the box: a roll of paper towels, a spritz bottle filled with water, hand sanitizer. If you buy cut flowers, spritz some paper towels with the water and wrap the stems of the flowers, put into cooler. Often, farmer's market items are still wearing the farm, so you'll be glad you packed the paper towels, water, and hand sanitizer for a quick cleanup. 

Not sure when or where there's a Farmer's Market near you? Check out Local Harvest and the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service sites to locate one in your backyard. With this shopping list, you'll go prepared to pick up the local produce with ease. Enjoy!

Did I miss anything? What experiences have you had at a Farmer's Market? What is your favorite food find? Share with us!

Beach Cover-Up: Show the Bust, Hide the Butt

Here is a simple, summer style tip that is easy to remember: When you are walking the beach or sipping a Daiquiri at the poolside bar... Show the bust, hide the butt!

What do I mean by this? Summer after summer, I see women of all ages, shapes, and sizes wearing ONLY a tee-shirt as a cover-up over their swimsuit. The tee-shirt stops at the waist leaving the lower half of the body uncovered except for the suit bottoms.

Sure, the tee is easy and quick, but you are putting out TMI (too much information). Leaving a little to the imagination still works wonders when it comes to maximizing figure assets and minimizing liabilities. It is simple to CYA (cover your, ahem...assets) and make the most of them at the beach or poolside.

What woman doesn't want to look good and feel more comfortable on the beach? No one expects your assets to equal Gisele Bundchen's, but the old tee-shirt doesn't yield the highest return on investment to make you look your best. It's time to reassess your beach cover-up...

Save the tee for sleeping and think in terms of a cover-up that accentuates the positive. Throw on a tunic that hits at the top of the knee or mid-thigh. If a tunic is too much coverage, try a beach skirt that matches your swimsuit; they are easy to slip on and off for a dip in the water. BONUS: Skirts work as a travel duo because you can wear them out and about beyond the beach.

Perhaps a colorful pareo or sarong that flows behind you as you move is more your style. These are easy to pack; plus, they can be tied in a multitude of ways for many coverage options. Remember, the longer the column, the slimmer the appearance.

Another easy-on, easy-off, versatile option you might like is a men's classic, cotton, button-down shirt. Fit it so that it is big enough to hit at mid-thigh or lower, roll up the sleeves, button one button at the hip area. Voilà, a simple, yet sexy look that takes you from the sand to the cafe for lunch.

No matter the style of cover-up, it never hurts to show a little cleavage or shoulder to draw attention up to the bust and face. It's better to be strategically stylish, than overexposed to more than the UVA and UVB rays. Show the bust, hide the butt, and saunter on by knowing you look pulled together and terrific in your beach cover-up!

This season, will you swap out the tee-shirt for a feminine, pretty option that adds more value to your summer wardrobe? Which option will you chose to wear as you enjoy the summer sun and fun?

Six Reasons Why Teens Like to Bring a Friend on Vacation

A post by Here We Are Contributor, Emilie LoGiudice

Summer is finally here! There is plenty of time for socializing with friends and going on a family vacation. Many teenagers, myself included, tend to try to roll both concepts into one. A lot of parents might assume that since their kid wants to bring a friend along on the family vacation, they don't want to spend time with the family. This is definitely not the case.

Here are six reasons why I like to have a friend along on our family vacation; they may be similar to why your teen wants to bring a friend on vacation this summer:

1. Because my family and I aren't always on the same page, it's nice to have someone who understands my point of view and sense of humor. A friend can appreciate my outlook on life.

2. The things that I think are cute or funny are very different from those that my family thinks are cute or funny. I might see a shirt I think is cute, or a sign that strikes me as funny, and it's more fun to have another person there who laughs with me.

3. I love spending time with my family, but when everyone is settling down at night, it's good to have someone to hang out with. My parents talk with each other, my younger brothers play games, but I'm left with the TV, my phone, and a book. While these are not terrible choices, recapping the day with my friend and talking about tomorrow is more interesting.

4. Every summer, I try to get my school reading list done, if a friend is there we can work together on the study guides and talk about the books. It's easier to be motivated if someone else is working too; and it gives us the opportunity to work as a team.

5. My next reason is a bit superficial, but in the teenage world it is vital to our social lives. We miss a lot when we go away on vacation, like break-ups, hook-ups, parties, fights, good times, social outings, etc. If a friend is traveling with me, I'm not the only one missing all the drama, and both of us feel less excluded from what is happening at home.

6. When on vacation, my family usually tries to do one new adventurous thing. This year we will be para-sailing. In years past, I've been to timid to participate; however, having a friend helps me feel secure enough to give it a try. I am more likely to attempt a new activity with my friend alongside to share in the experience.    

Each reason is a little different, and individually they don't account for much, but together they mean a lot to the overall teen vacation experience. Remember, it's not that your teenager doesn't love you, or doesn't want to spend time with you, it's just that at this point in life they feel a little insecure and need a wing girl to share in lots of situations.

          

Energy Medicine: The How, What, & Why of this Holistic Healing Method

CLICK HERE to listen to the "Energy Medicine" episode on the Here We Are radio show.

The use of "Energy Medicine" is becoming more popular, but what exactly is it? How does one use it? And why is it different than massage, acupuncture, or reiki? 

We are all made up of "energy" and if it's flowing the wrong way, or clogged up, you are not operating at your full potential. In this show, you'll learn from my guest, Energy Healer, Marie-Christine Lochot, about this powerful holistic healing method and how it can help you. Her explanations and examples will make you say, "Aha, I get it now and I'll give it a try!"

There is a lot more than flipping a switch to feeling better and Energy Medicine offers a non-pharmaceutical option to our pill popping society. This amazing, natural process may just be the answer you've been searching for to feel better, work at optimal capacity, and cruise through your day without dimming out too soon. Tap into your own natural resource today!

Marie-Christine Lochot is Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, as well as Sports Massage. She has a successful private practice, Massage Montclair, in NJ, where she has helped hundreds of clients since 1994. In 2002, she began studying Energy Medicine with renowned Energy Healer, Donna Eden. Marie-Christine later became one of Donna Eden's teaching assistants, offering Energy Medicine workshops, which lead to her own thriving practice in Energy Medicine.

[The claims made about specific products or procedures on or through this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The reviews and opinions provided on this show are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. Please consult with a health-care professional before taking or administering any new product or treatment to yourself or anyone else.]

The Joys of a Summer Hat & How To Avoid "Hat Hair"

With the strong rays of the sun, it is more important than ever to wear a hat in the summer. Not only does a hat help shield your delicate face from harmful UV rays, it cuts down on glare. BONUS: You squint less now which helps fend off unwelcome crow's feet later.

You can dramatically increase these benefits by selecting a hat with Ultraviolet Protection Factor fabric. TIP: Buy one that is "crushable" so it will fit in you beach bag, luggage, or bicycle basket when it isn't on your head.

Besides looking fabulous, another joy of wearing a beautiful summer hat is that by simply keeping the sun off your head, you feel cooler throughout the day. Plus, a fun summer hat makes you feel happy! It's not too late to pick one up this season, check out Coolibar and Hats In The Belfry to find one that is right for you.

How To Avoid "Hat Hair"

Follow this easy trick to avoid a case of embarrassing "Hat Hair," AKA "Hat Head" (I broke it down into 5 steps, but this is very easy once you get the hang of it):

1. Start with wet or dry hair dabbed with a bit of "smoothing" product of your choice. Pull back longer hair into a low ponytail; shorter hair can be smoothed and arranged behind the ears.

2. Using a cotton bandana, fold it over itself from corner to corner (so you achieve the longest possible length of fabric) until the bandana is about 2 inches wide and FLAT [not rolled].

3. To avoid fabric marks on your forehead, place the smoothest side of the bandana against your forehead (you'll see what I mean by this when you fold it). Tie it at the back of your head - over the ears and up toward the crown area - making it tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it hurts or makes its own impression on your hair.

4. Set the inside brim of your hat down OVER the bandana. This allows the bandana to work as a buffer between your hair/head and the evil hat brim responsible for "hat hair." The bandana will also work to absorb sweat - which adds to the "hat hair" problem. NOTE: The hat should feel snug and secure, with the bandana only slightly visible. TIP: Bring a few bandanas on a trip if you can't do laundry.

5. When you remove the hat and bandana, fluff up your hair using your fingers. While your hair won't be "styled," it will be presentable. Carry a hair clip or a small barrette to tame any odd ends. 

For me this process works best when I start with wet hair. Try it both ways and see which works best for you. Let us know about your terrific boat trip, vacation jaunt, beach day, etc. where you wore a hat and later took it off without a case of "Hat Hair."

Have fun, look great, save your skin, and enjoy the joys of a summer hat!!!

July: Summer's Jewel

Announcements, Updates, and Reminders

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Emilie's Posts: In March, when it was freezing cold and snowing, I announced new contributors were joining Here We Are. Meet the latest lady to join our team, Emilie LoGiudice. As a High School student, she will be writing articles that share the perspective of a young woman growing up in today's world. Welcome Emilie, and know that the mothers, grandmas, aunts, sisters, and mentors want to hear about what's really going on beyond the Twilight phenomenon.

Let the Energy Flow: "Energy Medicine" is becoming more popular, but what exactly is it? How does one use it? Can it really heal someone? Join me live for the Here We Are radio show on Monday, July 12, at 10:00am EST, to discuss these questions and more with my guest, Marie-Christine Lochot, Energy Healer and Massage Therapist. This episode, Energy Medicine: The How, What, & Why Of This Holistic Healing Method may help you decide if this natural process is right for you.

★ Regular readers may recognize Marie-Christine Lochot from previous articles she has shared on HWA like 10 Easy Tips To Stay Healthy This Winter, (okay, it's summer, but these are great tips AND there is such a thing as a "summer cold"). Also, revisit her Staycation: HOME SWEET HOME ideas if distant shores are a distant chance this season.

WOMB Woman: Another WOMB: Woman On a Mission in Business has been selected. Thank you to all the women who emailed us this past winter and spring. Check out Grandma's Handyman Service: Good Mission, Great Work, Grand Lady! for motivation and inspiration. Yvonne Costin is sure to fix you up if you're broken with self-doubt or need a little guidance. We are pleased to have her join Sharon Gnatt Epel of La Ishà: A Truly Timeless Beauty Line as HWA's second WOMB featured woman.

UPDATES

Gifts, Gifts, Gifts: The winner of Anna Quindlen's book Rise And Shine is email subscriber, Philomena. Enjoy this interesting tale of two sisters.

The Call For Comments continues throughout July and August. June's gift giveaway to one commenter who is also an email subscriber will be updated in August's Announcements article. We have books to give away for summer reading fun! NOTE: We never share or sell your info, ever!

Going Green: Did you miss our How Green Are You? Take the "Going Green" Poll challenge? We are collecting data until the end of August so there is still time to vote. It's fun and easy!

REMINDERS

Garden Woes?: It's not too late to revive your struggling garden. You'll find great tips, ideas, and guidance on all things green at You Grow Girl. So get down and get dirty before the summer passes by!

Fresh Picked Flowers: I'd like to share a recent moment with you... To my delight, I opened my front door to see a beaming smile worn by my three and a half year old niece, Angelina; featured in the popular article, Not Today...A Quote for All Seasons And All Women. She promptly presented me with a beautiful bouquet of fresh cut Hydrangea's (pictured above). I'm not sure which of the two of us was happier at that moment; but this small gesture reminded me of how the little things in life matter so much. Once again this little girl offers up a big lesson.