Greetings from Shelley, 7-8-07

[shelley]

Whoops, just missed the 7-7-07 date! OH well!

I hope everyone is enjoying the summertime! If you're experiencing record highs, remember how to keep cool (damp paper towel on the back of the neck or inner arm), and if you can't keep cool, remember to increase fluid intake! Drink the Rehydrating Drink anytime you've been sweating, exercising, or playing in the sun.

If you're drinking a lot more than usual, remember to cycle your drinks if you're drinking flavored drinks. Filtered water is best in large quantities as anything you drink is going to have an affect on your body, and large amounts aren't always good. For instance, large amounts of lemonade might be too much acid, iced tea may be too much phosphorus, cranberry juice may be too astringent. Over time this could irritate the stomach, liver, gallbladder. Try making herbal iced teas like combining peppermint and chamomile for a nice, low-phosphorus change in routine.

Today's fashions are fantastic for a healthy lifestyle. The return of cargo pants and capris is a good thing. I'm finding ones made of lightweight, breatheable fabrics like poplin, and very non-restricting cuts, allowing for circulation and comfort. The summer sales at Nordstrom's Rack and Victoria's Secret really helped to update my wardrobe, yippee!

And I've been enjoying more fruit in my diet. The other day I made cheeze blintzes with fresh strawberries, frozen blueberries (they're not as tart that way), and a sauce made from low-sugar blueberry jam from Trader Joe's with lemon juice added to brighten it up. Instead of filling them with cottage cheese per tradition, I used ricotta cheese because it's lighter and smoother, doesn't overpower the fruit, and it's easier to digest. Add just a bit of honey and vanilla and it's terrific!

The recipe I used is in Joy of Cooking. I modified it a bit to use baking soda instead of baking powder (must add cream of tartar for this substitution to work).

I hope everyone is in the best of health, and getting better!

[spicegirl]

Hi Shelley!

I just happened to drop in and see your post. I haven't been here in a long time, but it was so nice to "hear your voice."

I hope all is well with you and yours.

Hugs and love,
spicegirl