The Freebies Continue

Grab this one before it runs out: a coupon for one free Kashi frozen entree. Take a break from cooking.



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Mom

Friday Freebies for the Taking

Tired of the same old workout at your college's athletic facility? Sign up for a free 7 day guest pass at Bally Total Fitness. Check the site for locations in your area.

Hertz Car Rental is offering one free weekend day rental through March 31, 2009, when you use the code PC#127595 with your reservation. See the Hertz website for details.

Get a free sample of Aquafresh Extreme Clean toothpaste while supplies last.

Head over to Quiznos for a free sub with the coupon provided, while supplies last. Share this link with your friends and you can all enjoy a meal out together. (Please note: Since adding the Quiznos offer to today's blog, there have been articles online regarding customer dissatisfaction when trying to use the coupon. While some people have had no difficulty using the coupons, some stores are not honoring them. Others are requiring that specific sandwiches be ordered. Check with your store BEFORE ordering.)

There are more Godiva chocolates for the tasting. Through March 1st, enjoy a sample of Chocoiste (cherries, panned cashews). From March 2nd through the 12th, sample Godiva's mini brownies.


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Mom

Thinking about an Internship?

Whether you are considering an internship for this coming summer or contemplating one for an upcoming semester, it is never too early to put your plan into action. During these difficult economic times and tight job market, the right internship will provide valuable work experience, as well as a leg up on the competition when applying for future positions.

Performing a Google search online for "internships" amasses an unlimited selection of helpful sites. Some are very specific to particular areas of interest:
healthcare , fashion, finance, science, journalism, music, engineering, federal internships, etc.

An article on the website About.com, Penny's Top Internship Sites for 2009, by Penny Loretto is a worthwhile resource, offering a selective list of general sites to peruse. You can also subscribe to Penny's weekly internship newsletter. In addition, there are a number of other related internship topics that Penny addresses on the site. So, click away.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to your internship search, but a good place to start.

By the way, if you aren't familiar with About.com, the site offers many wonderful newsletters on an endless array of topics. I receive a number of their newsletters: for example, newsletters about the places I like to frequent in New York City, specific to the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan. These newsletters provide invaluable tips about NYC that would not normally be on my radar screen.


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Mom

Have You Ever Tried Quinoa?

Quinoa is one of those grains that remain a mystery to many. And yet the taste and nutritional benefits are hard to surpass. It is quite versatile, has a crunchy and nutty flavor, and is extremely high in protein and fiber. Read more about this nutritional wonder on the Whole Foods website.

When I first began incorporating quinoa in our meals many years ago, I had difficulty finding recipes that included the grain. In the past week alone, quinoa has appeared in a handful of newspaper articles, magazines and on cooking shows. While quinoa has generally been available in health food stores, it now often appears in the grocery store and even, my personal favorite, Trader Joe's.

This quinoa soup recipe, from Whole Grains for Busy People, by Lorna Sass is delicious, nutritious and easy to prepare in about 15 minutes.

If I had to suggest one change, it would be to add another 2 cups of broth to the soup. However, sometimes it is worth following the recipe exactly as written the first time; you can always make the change next time. My husband, Marc, also thought it would make a nice side dish if we reduced the broth by 2 cups. I passed it along to a number of friends and so far they are all sharing our enthusiasm.

Quinoa Soup with Avocado and Corn
(my changes are noted in parentheses)
4 c. chicken broth or vegetable broth (lower sodium)
1 c. quinoa (rinsed)
1 c. frozen corn kernels (canned is fine)
1/3 c. chunky salsa, to taste
1 ripe but firm Hass avocado, diced
Salt (I omitted)
¼ c. chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving

In a large saucepan over high heat, bring broth to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, reduce heat to medium-high and continue boiling, uncovered for 15 minutes. Stir in the corn and salsa, and then return to a simmer. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the avocado. Season with salt and stir in the cilantro. Ladle into large bowls, accompanied with lime wedges. Serves four.

I will be making this one again soon. Let me know what you think.


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Mom

Is Summer School in Your Future?

If you are thinking about taking a summer course to lighten your load for an upcoming semester or to fulfill a requirement, now is the time to contact colleges for information as to how to proceed. If you are able to take the class at the college where you are presently enrolled, then the process should be fairly straightforward.

However, if you are heading to another location for the summer and intend to take the course at a school other than the one you regularly attend, start by contacting your advisor, dean and/or registrar for requirements. They will alert you to your school's policy regarding the acceptance of credits. Most likely this information is available on your college's website.

Your university may have a strict or lenient policy, but it is sensible to be cognizant upfront, rather than disappointed later - - a costly mistake. Perhaps the course needs to be approved before enrolling. They may also require that it be taken from an accredited, 4 year university. Keep track of any correspondence online or in hard copy from your college and the summer school. If all your information is received verbally, it behooves you to follow up with an email confirming the details.

Next step: contact the colleges in the vicinity of where you will be spending your summer. Many colleges have begun listing their summer schedule online. Some are already accepting registration. Now is the time to make your arrangements.


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Countdown to Spring Break with another $1 Bus Fare

Another bus company has sprouted with affordable travel as its mantra. You may remember my mentioning the $1 bus trips on Megabus and Bolt Bus. See my posting on December 11, 2008 for details: Bus Travel for as Low as $1.

Now, TripperBus has jumped on the band wagon offering fares as low as $1, $5 and $10, and as high as $25. It's the same concept as BoltBus and MegaBus, the early bird catches the worm on the best deals.

TripperBus offers travel between New York City and Arlington, VA or Bethesda, MD. While the $1 fares may be hard to come by for spring break, some low fares should still exist. Take a look.

Both DC and NYC, two of my prior hometowns, offer an abundance of opportunities any time of the year, but they are particularly beautiful in the spring!

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Another Freebie for Your List

This just in....
If you are spending part of your weekend shopping, stop by Victoria's Secret with this coupon for a free 1 oz bottle of Secret Pink Energizing Body Lotion, while supplies last. It's organic, too!


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Mom

A Few Freebies for Your Friday

Through March 24th, buy one entree and get one free at Ruby Tuesday.
(Last Friday's posting had information about a similar offer at Friday's, which is still valid.)

Click here for a sample of Degree Men Absolute Protection.

Enjoy a free sample of Pantene's New Expressions

Try a free sample of Aquaphor, while supplies last.


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Mom

Quick and Easy Cooking for the College Student

You probably could not wait to forego the college meal plan. While it had some perks, you prefer cooking for yourself. The downside is finding time to shop for groceries and prepare a simple recipe, within the constraints of your hectic and often unpredictable class schedule. When time is at a premium, healthful eating may not always take priority. As with anything, it requires a little forethought to make it work.

This simple chicken recipe can quickly be prepared for you and your roommates, with enough left over for another meal. A bag of frozen chicken breasts is a welcome staple for last minute meals.

Peppery Chicken

8 skinless chicken breasts

2 T. olive oil
2 T. soy sauce
2 T. honey
1/2 t. thyme
1/2 t paprika
1/4 t. cayenne pepper
1 T. white vinegar (Balsamic is fine)
1/2 t. allspice
1 t. pepper
2 c. sliced mushrooms (= 8 oz package of mushrooms)

Place chicken breasts in a large pan. Mix all remaining ingredients together and pour over chicken. (How's that for simple?) Bake at 375 degrees until the interior of the chicken reaches 165 degrees. If you prefer, you can halve this recipe. Remember, to replenish spices check out your local dollar store for significant savings.








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Mom

So Much Technology, So Little Time

Today's posting is unlike previous postings. Share it with your friends and family. This is fascinating! Check out Did You Know? on YouTube, researched by Karl Fisch, Scott McLeod, and Jeff Bronman. (Thanks for sharing, Les!)



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Mom

Pandora and Others: Internet Radio Just a Click Away

I imagine most college students, if not all, are familiar with Pandora.com, which provides free Internet radio, personalized to your music tastes.

Truth be told, Pandora escaped me until just a few weeks ago when my parents, who are in their 80's, scooped me about the site. Within an hour of their mentioning it, we were immediately introduced to Pandora when we overheard some terrific Motown music playing nearby and learned the source was Pandora. We all had to laugh.

That was one of those moments I mentioned in last week's Hookah posting about how you may never have heard of something and then suddenly it keeps reappearing in the unlikeliest of places. I know there's a term for that, but it escapes me.

Since then I have enjoyed checking out Pandora. I also learned that both my kids have known about and used this site for quite some time. I was not surprised. My kids and my parents - - how did that sneak by me?

While my blog is geared toward college students, it is also subscribed to by their parents and others. I thought it was time to bring all of us up to speed on Pandora. In addition to enjoying Pandora on the web, you can also listen to it on your mobile phone. Check it out.

I know there are a number of online music sites. A few sites to consider include:
Live365 Internet Radio
AccuRadio
Yahoo! Music
Some sites have commercials, and some specialize in specific music venues (e.g. rock). I would be curious to hear back from you with information regarding other recommended sites. Clue me in so we can all reap the benefits of some terrific online listening. Thanks.

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Mom

Friday Freebies Full of Fun for Foodies (and more!)

Thank goodness it's Friday! What college student wouldn't enjoy a nice meal out this weekend?Between now and March 1st, head on over to Friday's and when you purchase one entree, you get one free with this coupon (not valid on Valentine's Day). (thanks for the tip, Marc!)

Beginning today, February 13th, through Monday February 16th, enjoy a complimentary breakfast at IKEA until 10:30 a.m. Click here and scroll down for more information. This offer is not valid at all locations. IKEA is known for serving a terrific breakfast.

It seems we are always celebrating something. As you well know, tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Also in February we have Abe's and George's birthdays, rolled into one big celebration this coming Monday on Presidents' Day. But did you know that even a pancake has its day? Well, it's true! February 24th is National Pancake Day. That was news to me. According to IHOP's (International House of Pancakes) website, this celebratory day also has some history. "Known also as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras, National Pancake Day dates back several centuries to when the English prepped for fasting during Lent. Strict rules prohibited the eating of all dairy products during Lent, so pancakes were made to use up the supply of eggs, milk, butter and other dairy products…hence the name Pancake Tuesday, or Shrove Tuesday." How's that for a little pancake trivia? The best part: On February 24th between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., you can wander in to any IHOP for free pancakes. Check here for details.

Whole Foods is offering 10 lucky winners the chance to enjoy free flowers for a year. Enter once between now and March 4th.

This weekend Godiva is offering yet another in-store sampling - - this time, wrapped demitasse.

Wishing you a wonderful Valentine's Day! (And, remember.....call your mom!)

You Can Never Be Too Safe on Campus: Crime is on the Rise

There is a noticeable pattern when it comes to an increase in crime and it is strongly linked to the economy. No surprise, really. With the excessive increase in the cost of gasoline last year, siphoning from gas tanks spiked, as well as thefts of gasoline directly at the pumps.

In the past six months we have been constantly alerted to an increase in vehicular crimes. In particular thefts from inside cars have skyrocketed, with thieves smashing windows and grabbing any item in sight. Countless news stories are a reminder not to leave anything in plain view, and generally advise that nothing of value be stored anywhere in the car.

While most college campuses employ their own security force and also utilize the blue light system, crimes still occur. There can easily be a false sense of security that exists on a college campus. The same rules still apply as they would outside your comfort zone. Be conscious of your surroundings.

I know from my own kids that walking alone, especially at night, is "found" time for catching up with family and friends by cell phone. The problem with talking on your cell phone while you walk outside, any time of day, is that you can easily be distracted and left unaware of what may be happening around you, opening you up to greater risk. A similar issue surrounds the wearing of iPod headphones. It would be impractical and fall on deaf ears if I were to suggest that you discontinue either activity, but I will emphasize that you need to remain cognizant of your surroundings at all times, regardless! For more information, read Boston University's The Daily Free Press article by Ellie Choi, Cell phones are a target in recent robberies, BUPD says.
(Thanks, Barbara!)

Additionally, keep in mind that you need to follow your sixth sense. If something feels wrong, there is a good chance that it is. Never worry about offending a potential stranger who may be walking too closely, or who may attempt to engage you in conversation. This is one instance where you can let go of your manners. Your safety is paramount. It is far smarter to distance yourself and risk offending a perfect stranger, than to place yourself in a precarious and dangerous situation.

In a worst case scenario - - a robbery attempt - -do not think twice: give up your wallet, IPod or cell phone. They are just "things". Do not substitute your safety for any item that can easily be replaced. For a more comprehensive description of how you can protect yourself, read this article by the Arlington, VA police, Crime Prevention Tips - Robbery. It contains valuable information for college students and all of us!

Countdown to Valentine's Day: A Guide for the Frugal College Student

No, you didn’t miss it! There is still time to remember your mom, dad, grandparents, siblings, significant other, and friends on Valentine's Day, but you need to get moving if you are planning to pop a card or gift in the mail and hope that it arrives by Saturday. No sense breaking your budget. There are many options to consider.

First of all, instead of paying $3, $4, $6 or more for greeting cards, consider a few more reasonable and practical options. Many dollar stores frequently sell greeting cards for the amazing price of 2 for $1 and sometimes even designer handmade cards for $1, if you time it right. Take a look around at the variety of other Valentine treats worth considering. From decorations for your dorm room, apartment, or common area, to candy, boxed cards, and even helium balloons for all occasions (though I am not encouraging balloons since they are bad for the environment!), you are bound to find something festive all for the remarkable price of $1.

Secondly, consider an e-card. Hallmark.com offers a decent selection of free e-cards for any occasion. The best part is that they can be sent at the last moment, in case you neglected to plan ahead. Feel like splurging? You will find additional themed e-cards for 99 cents, with characters from some of your favorite shows and movies, like 30 Rock, The Office, Juno, and more, all on the Hallmark site.

On Americangreetings.com choose from a limited selection of free e-cards. In addition, there are a variety of free cards to print, for Valentine's Day and other occasions.

The stores are overstocked with Valentine treats. With a weak economy they are eager to move the merchandise, so be on the lookout for lots of terrific last minute sales. Stores, like Target for instance, sell dollar items perfect for holiday celebrations, from the sublime to the ridiculous, and many in between. Themed holiday socks are always available for a dollar or more.

You needn't be extravagant when celebrating Valentine's Day. However, this holiday provides you with the perfect excuse to let those who have positively impacted your life know that you value them.

When all else fails, there is always the cell phone. No excuses. We all know that you are never without your phone. Take a minute to call your mom. She will be impressed that you remembered and it will be our little secret.

As for me, I will be nibbling chocolates while I wait for the phone to ring, or perhaps a text message. Share the love.

Who Made the Salad?

I have always had an affinity for cooking. I enjoyed perusing cookbooks and magazines to find just the "right" recipe. I would follow the directions to the letter of the law. As I gained my comfort level with cooking in general, and with a particular recipe, I tweaked it to my personal satisfaction, omitting "this", and adding "that", making notes on each recipe as I reinvented it. If it worked, the recipe had essentially been recreated for posterity. You may notice with the recipes I share on my blog, I often provide the original, as well as the substitutions or omissions. Way back in middle school cooking class we were trained not to deviate from the recipe, especially when baking, but I rarely abide by that rule. Such a rebel! :-) Reducing salt, sugar and oil are 3 easy recipe deviations to consider.

I am hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn't enjoy Caesar salad. Always a favorite with my family, a number of years ago I was on the hunt for a Caesar salad recipe that was at least as good as some that I have enjoyed while dining out. In search of the perfect recipe, I contacted my friends with the best reputations for their culinary talents. After receiving 8 or so variations, my goal was to choose a recipe that was fairly simple to make and one that did not require my purchasing a lot of unnecessary ingredients which I would not regularly utilize. Essentially I merged a few of the recipes to create what has become a family favorite, my signature salad. So, go ahead and tweak this one to your liking. Most Caesar salads include raw eggs and anchovies, both of which are omitted here.

Mom's Caesar Salad

Dressing:
2 T. mayo (I use Trader Joe's reduced fat mayo)
2 t. Dijon mustard
2 large (or more!) chopped garlic cloves
About 3 lemons of squeezed lemon juice equaling 1/2 c.
1 t. salt (any is fine, though I prefer kosher salt)
At least 1/2 t black pepper, be generous!
1 1/2 c extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan to thicken the body

2 heads (large) romaine lettuce (clean and chop) or 2 to 3 bags of already cleaned and chopped romaine (or lettuce of your choice)
One bag of croutons
Grape or cherry tomatoes (optional)
Up to 1 c. of parmesan cheese when preparing a large salad - I prefer freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano or grana padano (grana padano is usually less expensive than parmigiano-reggiano and a close second)
To save time, use an already grated parmesan cheese.

Mix the first 6 ingredients in the dressing together. Add the olive oil, whisking until well combined. Sample the dressing and adjust seasonings to taste. The recipe for the dressing is plentiful and often can be used for multiple salads. Add as much dressing to the salad, as you prefer. It is quite flavorful, so in this case, "less is more". Similarly, if you are serving a smaller crowd, you can modify the amount of lettuce. Add croutons and tomatoes. Top with freshly grated parmesan. For a nice touch, grate fresh parmesan on top of each plate of salad, and add freshly ground pepper, just like in the finest restaurants!

The dressing can easily be made a day or 2 ahead and kept refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving. It will solidify while stored in the refrigerator.

Be prepared. Once you start bringing this to social events, you will find that it will be requested over and over again!

Want to turn this salad into a meal? Add sliced grilled chicken and you are all set.

To Hookah or Not?

Have you ever had the experience where you hear about something for the first time, whether it is an event, a food, a musician, or any multitude of topics, and suddenly it continues to repeatedly crop up in conversation, newspapers, or any number of communications? This was my experience with hookah bars a few years back. While they were by no means a new concept, the popularity of hookah was on the rise.

If you are not familiar with a hookah bar, it is essentially a very social event where friends gather together to enjoy flavored tobaccos from a communal hookah, a water pipe. It is especially popular in cities and college towns, attracting young adults.

My curiosity grew and I wondered how intelligent college students were justifying inhaling smoke from a hookah when they were vehemently opposed to smoking cigarettes. I was led to wrongly believe that the risks were not as significant when inhaling from a hookah. The hookah bar may be a fun social experience, but don't let it fool you, the risks may actually be greater than smoking cigarettes. For further information, read Hookah smoking: Is it safer than cigarettes? This article by pulmonologist Edward Rosenow, M.D., on the Mayo Clinic website, will clear up any misconceptions and alert you to thinking twice before you consider smoking from a hookah.

TGIFF!! (Thank Goodness It's Freebie Friday): Coffee or Pastry, and a Magazine

Who doesn't love Friday? Even though as a college student you may be spending a good portion of your weekend studying, there is always time for a coffee break. For a change of scenery, grab your books and head over to your local Borders to enjoy a complimentary pastry or beverage with the purchase of a Seattle's Best beverage. Print the coupon and check the store locator for cafe locations. You can sign up for additional special offers on their website.

Interested in a free subscription to Elle Magazine? Hey, why not?!

The Godiva chocolate freebies continue this weekend. Check last Friday's blog for details.

Now that the peanut butter recall is including over 1,100 products, remember to check the FDA site for updates. New products continue to be added daily.

Catch up on your sleep and make it a great weekend!

It Is Practically a Forbidden Word

In our house, it is lovingly referred to as the "G" word (shhhh......don't let my daughter see that I am mentioning it in my blog today - - so sorry, Sarah!). Any guesses? G-R-A-D-U-A-T-I-O-N! It’s not that it isn't something to be proud of, something you have been aiming for these past four years, something very exciting and memorable, something worth celebrating! It is all of those and more, but without belaboring the point, graduation can be mixed with the bittersweet of leaving the familiar behind: the comfort of a college you love, the place you call home, surrounded by the friendships you adore and depend upon daily, the opportunity to continually try new courses and new extra curricular activities, all on “CST” (college standard time). Certainly it is hard to let go of a good thing.

Making this transitional time even more challenging is the big question: what next? And then there is an even bigger question: what to do next when the state of the economy is at odds with job hunting. There are a lot of big questions and not a lot of easy answers. However, do not despair; you have a lot in your favor. You are young and resilient, and your first opportunity will certainly not be your last. This will just be one stepping stone to your future - - a bright one.

This is a huge topic, with many subtopics. Having a senior in college, I have done more than my fair share of reading up on the issues. Over the next few weeks I will continue to address this big next step in some of my postings.

In the meantime, check out this recent article in the Boston Globe, by Christin Bolzan, entitled “Who will hire the Class of 2009?” The author puts a relatively positive spin on this somewhat daunting task. Your homework for today: give it a quick glance. It offers some great practical ideas for a variety of majors.

It took you time to find your niche in college. A new and equally promising niche awaits you. It will happen. Most importantly, keep that positive attitude and keep moving forward! There is life after college.

Omelet, Anyone?

While I love to try new recipes, and often prepare the "tried and true," I frequently take inspiration from a restaurant menu, later experimenting at home. This recipe for a Spinach and Cheese Omelet is one such recipe that I thoroughly enjoyed while dining out; I just had to recreate it at home. It can easily be modified to suit your tastes. The best part about eggs is that they are perfect for any meal of the day and gentle on the college student's wallet.

Spinach and Cheese Omelet

1 to 2 T. olive oil
3 garlic cloves, crushed
A full bag of baby spinach (usually 10 oz)
6 eggs (I use 2 whole eggs and 4 whites with a little milk for a fluffier omelet)
1/8 t. nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 T. goat cheese to taste (if you prefer, substitute a different cheese)

Whisk eggs and milk together until well combined. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg and mix well.

Add olive oil to large pan and heat slightly on medium low heat.

Once heated, add garlic to the pan, and sauté with a full bag of baby spinach, until spinach wilts. A large bag of spinach cooks down to nothing!

Add the egg mixture and continue to cook until firm over medium low heat. NOTE: You can try flipping the omelet once the egg is firm on the bottom side or instead of flipping, lower the heat and cover with a lid so the top of the omelet is able to firm up more evenly in conjunction with the bottom. As the eggs begin to firm up, sprinkle with goat cheese, until warm and melted.

Feeling adventurous? This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. Example: Like mushrooms and/or grape tomatoes? Add them to the spinach mixture. For a really satisfying and filling meal, I have been known to add more veggies to an omelet than eggs.
Cut in half and slide the omelet on 2 separate plates.

Serves 2

A Perspective on Parenting: For Parents and College Students

First of all, my apologies to my subscribers if you received yesterday's blog duplicated again today in your email box. I made some behind-the-scenes changes as required by one of my subscription services and it probably created this glitch. I will keep an eye on that and hope that it is resolved shortly.

Today's blog is unlike my usual daily postings. It is more of a perspective on parenting and being parented. I would be interested in hearing your thoughts. Read on.

I often find myself agonizing over the daily topic for my blog. I will compose 3 or 4 of them in my head before I sit down (and start bouncing - - see yesterday's blog) and put my fingers to the keyboard. My friends, in particular, who might share a concern, a worry, an idea, or an event happening in their college student's life, add to the long list of ideas I store in my "tickle file". These issues tend to be universal among a number of parents.

When my kids were home from college recently they both provided me with some constructive feedback and suggested I add more advice to my blog. Advice, really?! W o w, who thought my kids would actually be requesting more advice. As a parent, I felt as though I had truly arrived. (Thanks, Sarah and Dan!)

Despite having 2 kids in college, I still think of myself as a "new" parent. While that might sound implausible, I justify that with the fact that no matter what age my kids currently are, I have never been a parent to someone in that stage of life. I am learning as I go. There is no manual addressing my kids’ specific needs. I make plenty of mistakes, I'm sure. Sometimes the best way to learn how to parent is to let our kids guide us - - a little reverse parenting - - a lot more thinking before we broach a topic or respond to one. Not always easy or second nature. It sure seems easier if we could just jump right in and give them THE answer or make “it” right. That assumes, of course, that we even know what that answer is! Parenting, and trying to get it right, is no easy task.

For years, as parents, we focused on one of the ultimate goals: helping our kids to find the best college to meet their needs. Suddenly they were there and we wanted nothing more than for them to test the waters, while becoming more independent, all on the path to meeting their goals, as long as they call or email regularly, fill us in on ALL the news, let us know nearly their every move, eat breakfast as part of 3 healthy meals a day, get plenty of rest, make good choices for their future, wear that winter coat and boots we bought them, stay out of trouble, oh, and have fun and make it the best 4 years of your life........all because we love you.

Sometimes we all, parents and kids alike, need to step back from the moment and realize we are not infallible. While it might be hard for our kids to realize it, we are all a work in progress, learning and writing each chapter together as we go, figuring out how to parent our kids, while we continue to develop ourselves. I can't wait to read the next chapter. The characters are rich, and the storyline is captivating!

And by the way, when was the last time you called your mother? And, did you remember to ………………………..

Using an Exercise Ball in Place of Your Desk Chair

If you were to walk by my desk as I prepare this posting, you would see me bouncing and stretching. The idea is not new but the popularity has grown. After reading countless articles about the benefits of exercise balls, my husband and I recently swapped our office chairs with these colorful replacements. When your college or work commitments preclude you from sticking to an exercise regimen, this is a great way to keep yourself moving, on your own time. It is actually kind of fun, too. You needn't bounce continuously, but 10 minutes here and 15 minutes there can really add some valuable movement to your day.

There are a number of benefits that attracted us to make the switch. For me, it was the idea that during the winter months, especially during this unusually snowy, icy and cold northeast winter, we tend to be more sedentary. The ball keeps me moving and encourages me to change position, which in turn increases circulation, and naturally warms me up while I work. You may wish to do a search online to read the pros and cons of exercise balls as office chairs, so you can evaluate if purchasing one is right for you.

Additionally, I was alerted to the fact that the ball strengthens your back and abdominal muscles, while improving your balance. Start slowly, building up to 30 minutes a day, and increase your time as you achieve your comfort level. Many use it as a permanent substitution for their chair. I tend to switch back and forth throughout the day.

Another advantage for purchasing the ball is that it is not just intended for sitting on! The ball can also be used for countless other exercises, as described in the accompanying direction manual.

Exercise balls range in price, but generally a decent one can be purchased for approximately $15. I have noticed them for less at places like Marshalls, Target, and TJ Maxx. A pump is usually provided to inflate the ball. That takes a little muscle and time, but it is easy to do. Be sure to choose the ball that is appropriate for your height. The brands I considered offered 3 different sized balls.

If there is one downside to the ball, it is the fact that it requires some storage space alongside your chair. That may be challenging for college students already living in a cramped dorm room. Give it some thought. You may become the topic of conversation on your floor, and start a trend! Happy bouncing!