Boo Tale Closing. I wrote a "strongly worded letter"! I can't help be passionate about this issue.
You can read and comment on the editorial piece here:

READ IN FULL MY OPINION LETTER REGARDING TALE CLOSURE

INTRO:

A Tale of Two Cities Guillotined by Critics—A Fans’ Outcry.

It is a dark day on Broadway when a show like A Tale of Two Cities closes its doors. Closing with just two weeks notice. Before the holiday tourist season. It is the critics who have guillotined this magically intoxicating show. In the end, it is theater lovers who have been duped again. Duped by those ill hearted, arms crossed, unimaginative pencil-pushing cynics. This show has been given an unfair trial. And as a passionate fan, I protest.

continued....Amidst the back-to-work blur of election week, I have a to-do list that runs out my door and down my block. But alas, I am putting aside reality to write this letter in support for what I think is one of the best shows on Broadway. I attended A Tale of Two Cities for my second show on November fourth. As the seven o’clock showtime approached, little did I know that the cast had just been informed of the show’s closing -- just a half hour before the shimmering purple curtain rose. At the curtain call standing ovation, a weary eyed James Barbour, who plays Sydney Carton, broke the news to the audience who let out a spine tingling gasp. My jaw dropped to the floor in such shock that I could do nothing more than shake my head and feel the Al Hirschfeld theatre sounds and people melt and blur around me like globs of wet oil paint splattered on a canvas. Natalie Toro was sobbing next to James as he rambled on about the upsetting news. “This is outrageous!” I shouted to my husband in disgust. My giddy post-show smile was replaced by a little girls frown after she had just had her favorite toy taken away.

After the show I stood out by the silver bars at the stage door and waited to watch the players exit. I was surprised to see them put on such kind and brave faces for the fans--despite just getting canned a few hours before. Natalie Toro who similar to Barbour, has been working on her role for the past six plus years, chatted with fans with red eyes. James Barbour, who I would have expected to be grumpy, nauseas and simply depressed—came out with a kind face for the glum faced fans. “Not even a CD recording?” I vented to them all. “Too expensive. Apparently.” they responded.

This is the worst of times.

Where’s the justice for the fans? For the show? When did money and critics and the stock market seep its way into theatre owners business plans? Since when did the machine of Broadway turn into a system as lowly as say, network television? And when did bad critics get such power?

So why did Tale get kicked to the Broadway curb? I have three reasons.

1. The economy sucks. And even though hardcore theater fans will easily skip a celebratory dinner at Le Bernadin in exchange for tickets to their favorite show—the tourists are a bit more tight-fisted.

2. The shameless critics killed this one. My expectations of this show were very low, simply based on reading multiple bad reviews. I can only picture those pesky little critics sitting stiffly in their seat skimming another boring Playbill with glaring eyes and a twisted frown. Just another show to review, blah blah blah. They probably attended the show alone, devoid of a hand to clutch passionately as James Barbour belted out his heart-fluttering rendition of I Can’t Recall. I bet the critics even missed it when Barbour smiles at the audience mouthing the words “Oooh myyy God!” as he sings about the rosy cheeked Lucie—stars twinkling against a navy sky set. It gave me chills. It was magical. But clearly the critics missed the point. The point is that in moments like these, the audience is moved not by the story, but by the characters. The emotion. The heart. Smug critics clearly don’t have heart or better yet, they simply despise it. Go figure. The critics didn’t stop and look around at the glow on the audience members faces. All the critics saw was a story. A cast. A show. Oh it’s “Les Miz” only not. But the critics got it way wrong this time.

3. I saved my best point for last. It is in criticism to the marketing of A Tale of Two Cities. The publics’ impression of this show was that it was a big cast performing a historical book-on-stage. And the book just happened to be one they get queasy just thinking about reading back in high school. (Or trying to read) Big casts don’t close the sale! When audiences open their wallets for a show they don’t want a ‘cast’. They want a star! James Barbour is the un-highlighted star in this show. I’ve never seen an audience leap onto its feet at curtain call where…. they almost don’t realize what they are doing. Instead of standing for a show like say, The Lion King, where there is a high pile of good reviews to stand with you. Standing at the end of Tale was like standing up against the critics and wrong bad press. Standing up in response to your own hearts intuition, going against wrong first impressions. And notably, the sincere roaring applause for Barbour’s performance echoes in crisp clear shades of gold, say Tony gold in my opinion. I wish the producers had fiercely marketed Barbour as the star, a star you can’t miss on Broadway! The cast is amazing don’t get me wrong, but like I said, people want to see a star. James Barbour fulfills that desire. Barbour is to Sydney Carton as Crawford is to the Phantom.

The true tragedy of Tale closing is that it all came down to money. Lack of filled seats. However, I would bet my autographed Tale playbill that if hesitant theatre goers were smushed forcefully into those red velvet seats, by the time Barbour parades out in his black boots and draped white shirt, a satisfied and sincere grin on his face, they would be on their feet cheering for feeling a flutter in their heart that they did not expect to feel upon entering the theatre. But unfortunately, the curtain, the guillotine will swipe down for good come November 16th 2008. And theater lovers will be cheated of a remarkable Broadway experience. This is a tragedy.

The song, Let Her be a Child says,

“For now let her be lucky. For now look down in grace. Give her time to learn compassion. Give her time to learn forgiveness. Only let her be a child.”

Can’t we let this child of a musical grow into its place on Broadway—to eventually grow its word-of-mouth and stay at the Hirschfeld Theatre having past its troubled youth?

-Kathy Patalsky

OK, so just what does a BROADWAY SHOW review of A TALE OF TWO CITIES have to do with health and wellness?? A LOT! Last night I was thrilled to see the new Broadway musical A TALE.... And while I last-minute galloped off to the theatre with my husband in tow, unsure if we would like what we saw, I was INCREDIBLY MOVED by the performances of the entire cast! What a passionate, uplifting and powerful show it was. I was especially impressed with the actor JAMES BARBOUR who played the role of Sydney Carton. His performace broke through the gloom and repitition of these pre-election days and brought me into a cloud of stardust, orange sunsets and gritty streetlevel HOPE.

...thus where HEALTH and WELLNESS come in....read on for more on this...
As I mentioned, I was inspired by this show. At a time in our society when we are often left feeling blue, gloomy or simply uninspired I am the first one to offer up a NONTRADITIONAL solution to the mix of prescription drugs, fad diets and other trendy quick-fix methods to boost your MOOD BODY AND SOUL.

Kathy's Rx: Go engage yourself in some ART. If you live in NYC, go see a Broadway show. Or head out to a hometown play. Browse an art gallery, attend a choir concert, round up a group of holiday carolers, or even attend a local high school play. It is not enough to simply see movie though. Live stage shows are the BEST Rx for an ailing spirit. Really. I left the show feeling like I was on a cloud, and I danced down the rainy NYC streets to the subway and back home. For an evening, I actually FORGOT about all the election woes, financial problems and health catastrophes in the world. My spirit was renewed and my mind purified.

I ask you, what PILL or DIET or HAPPY MEAL can do that????

...And yes take you kids--over the age 10 I should think--to see A TALE on Broadway. And kids will LOVE shows like THE LITTLE MERMAID AND LION KING.

Again ...kudos to the TALE OF TWO CITIES CAST. And all this month they are participating in BROADWAY CARES. So check it all out...and give yourself and your family a little BROADWAY-THERAPY......

WWW.BROADWAYCARES.ORG
WWW.TALEMUSICAL.COM
WWW.JAMESBARBOUR.COM

PS--A bit more on James Barbour: Mr. Barbour was formerly 'the beast' in Beauty in the Beast--among other roles on stage. His interpretation of Carton-an off-beat, terribly flawed not-so-leading drunk of a man--was top notch. It was a cross between Johnny Depp in PIRATES with a touch of the PHANTOM mixed in. A lesser actor could easily screw up this role--but Barbour was stunning. His voice is traditional, romantic, passionate and vibrant. It reaches out and grabs you by the heart.

I wonder.... why doesn't the TALE cd have James Barbour's voice on it??? I should hope they re-release a new recording...
Also, if Broadway ever opens a show based on the PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN movies...James Barbour would make an excellent CAPTAIN SPARROW... wouldn't he???!

I despise taking pills. Therefore, taking a capsule, pearl or pill as my probiotic supplement just isn't for me. Luckily, there are a plethora of yummy and effective superfood-style probiotic products--that are all easy to swallow.
Read on for the top five list!

Before we begin... DID YOU KNOW--->The National Yogurt Association has criteria for “live and active cultures.” The finished yogurt product must contain at least 1 billion live lactic acid bacteria per gram at the time of manufacture, and the cultures must stay active throughout the stated shelf life. If yogurt is heat-treated after the culturing process, the active cultures are destroyed.

5 ACTIVIA
It's the yogurt product endorsed by Jamie Lee Curtis. It promises to help with digestive regularity. However, it doesn't have a milk-free option. So this product is not a choice for lactose-intolerant and vegan folks.
Another drawback--the product only says it contains "significant amounts" of active cultures. So you don't really know the strength level of the product.

4. Naked Juice Probiotics
The very popular NAKED Juice brand has come out with a probiotic juice blend. Easy to take and in delicious flavors like Very Berry and Tropical Mango. However--again they only say "billions" of culture. No number is given. And not dairy free...

3. Good Belly Juice and Juice shots
Good Belly gives a number of 20 billion active cultures per serving. Impressive. The juice and shots are easy to drink and come in interesting flavors like blueberry acai and strawberry rosehips. The shots are also fortified with vitamins and minerals. A great value for all the nutrition you get.
Oh and all Good Belly products are DAIRY FREE!

2. Attune Foods, bars
Hate yogurt? Not a fan of sweet juice? Well how about chocolate??? Attune bars are 100 calorie refrigerated chocolate bars that contain 5 times the amount of probiotics in regular yogurt. So that means at least 5 billion active cultures, Plus they are dairy free! Try mint chocolate or dar chocolate or even chocolate crisP. About 99 cents per bar.

AND IN THE TOP SPOT........

1. BioKPLUS
Hardcore probiotics. Available in dairy free, kid-friendly and regular--this is the BEST probiotic product I have found. It has 50 billion active cultures in one small shot sized serving! But it will cost you...Each shot is around $3.45-$4. But if you're getting 50 times the healthy bacteria than in regular yogurt...its quite a deal. Try it and you'll be amazed. Find retailers on their website.

---Note that you will need to take probiotics for at least a week before noticing a great improvement in your digestive and immune system

WEBLINKS:

WWW.BIOKPLUS.COM
WWW.ATTUNEFOODS.COM
WWW.NAKEDJUICE.COM
WWW.ACTIVIA.COM
WWW.GOODBELLY.COM

We had a great turnout at the last Stovetop Storytime at Whole Foods on Bowery in New York City. The storytimes are presented by the amazing Whole Foods Bowery Culinary Center (all events listed at wholefoods.com)

If you missed out on attending this fall, don't worry--we will be back in 2009--so sign up early, as Storytime has previously sold out!

Oh, and did we mention IT'S FREE?!

More photos after the jump...
Kathy
PS--Join THE LUNCHBOX BUNCH GROUP on Facebook for easy event and brand updates! LINK HERE: http://www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=19902441877

(pictured above: Retro Potato, 1950's vintage ad)

"Ugh! After-school playdate today! Tommy, Sally and Wendy are fine....it's that little Marsha who is a vegetarian. I guess she won't eat my spicy mustard turkey wraps. Such a pain! What does her mom feed her anyways!"-Typical mom, Anytown USA

"Table number eight has requested no chicken on the Mandarin Chicken Salad. Just more veggies she said. What a pain." -Typical chef, Anytown, USA

"Mom, I'm a vegetarian now. I can't eat that hot dog!" -Little Sally experimenting with a veg lifestyle.
Her mom's response: "Don't you dare go vegetarian! What ARE you going to eat then?????"

....There is a secret angst among moms and chefs everywhere who do not entertain a vegetarian lifestyle themselves...

"VEGETARIANS ARE A PAIN!"

...and for the most part, I agree with their situation. Really.

Read on for more on the controversy...

As a vegetarian and vegan for most of my life, I have become an EXPERT at being able to eat just about anywhere: a buffet-happy Royal Caribbean cruise, Le Bernardin's tasting menu, a BBQ joint, any Mexican restaurant, PARIS (and that was tricky!), polish relatives Thanksgiving dinner, a typical Pittsburgh wedding with only one meal option (chicken), Morimoto and all sushi, trekking across parts of Europe and even fast food such a In and Out Burger (one cheeseburger--hold the cheese and burger please!)

..but for the average mom or chef its not so easy. I am too often asked,

"WHAT DO YOU EAT ANYWAYS???"

or more importantly to the frustrated... "WHAT DO I COOK YOU ANYWAYS?!"

I can only envision the ignorant minded picturing me scarfing down plates and plates of veggies and bread. Maybe a rice pilaf on the side, or even a bowl of beans or lentils. Trust me. I eat much better than that. In fact I always CRINGE at the option of a steamed veggie plate at a 'nice restaurant'. To me, to have that as the vegetarian option is simply tremendously ignorant--and frames the chef in a very poor and passe light.

So what's my secret hint to the frustrated chefs and moms out there?

The secret to successful vegetarian cooking: CURIOSITY AND CREATIVITY.

Our world has eaten MEAT and FISH for millions of years....and thus these tried-and-true main course dishes have evolved quite thoroughly. Everyone knows how to make a yummy hamburger, tuna fish salad or a delicious turkey bacon sandwich. These are time-tested American classics that most eaters admire and praise. But a good veggie burger??? That's tricky. I delicious tofu-pesto sandwich? Where would I begin?....

CREATIVITY AND CURIOSITY

Here in New York City, there are over a dozen very excellent vegan restaurants. And hundreds of amazing vegetarian restaurants. The chefs have learned to get CREATIVE with ingredients like SEITAN, QUINOA, BROWN RICE, TOFU, TEMPEH, SPROUTED GRAINS, BUTTERNUT SQUASH, CHICKPEAS, BASIL, HERBS, SPICES, EXOTIC VEGGIES and FRUIT and more....

Here are a few of my favorite vegan entrees from NYC places:

Cauliflower Risotto, Counter

Butternut Squash Risotto, GoBo

Tofu-Pesto Sandwich, Caravan of Dreams

Seitan Skewers with Spicy Mustards, GoBo

Salt and Pepper mushrooms, GoBo

Port Wine Seitan, Blossom

Porcini Crusted Tempeh, Candle 79

The Veggie Burger, Cafeteria

...Now after reading these entrees I can understand your frustration as a mom or chef. But what do I feed the little veggie kid at the after-school playdate? Or the vegan relative at a holiday dinner. And where do I get some seitan in Middletown, Kansas.....?!

..And this is where CREATIVITY must meet CURIOSITY!! Great chefs and even moms, should be curious to experiment with new and different types of foods. There is a huge variety of proteins and grains that most people do not know how to prepare. You can buy seitan and tempeh at most grocery stores now a days...and google online "tempeh recipe" to find a plethora of ideas.

I can only hope that in proper time, our society will evolve to include vegetarian options in mainstream American cuisine.

IT TAKES TIME (BUT ITS WORTH IT)

Yes...it takes extra work and energy to try new menu ideas. And a lot of moms and chefs simply don't have time! But its worth taking a try. In one Saturday afternoon you can experiment with some amazing seitan, tofu, lentil, tempeh and exotic veggie food dishes. And soon those seitan, tempeh 'bacon' wraps will become just as easy as those cheese-hot dogs...

HEALTH TRUMPS ALL, OR SO I HOPE

LASTLY....the most important point to consider is that a lot of the veggie food options are light years ahead of traditional meat-fare when it comes to nutrition. Meat contains a lot of chemicals and preservative--and heart clogging SATURATED FAT. Switching over to tofu-dogs form traditional dogs would be a huge improvement on anyones health.

HOPEFULLY THIS WILL CONVINCE YOU TO TRY A TASTE-TEST......

COMPARE HERE:

YVES VEGGIE DOGS
calories: 45
protein: 9 g
fat: 0.5g (no saturated fat)

BALLPARK HOT DOG
calories: 180
protein: 6g
fat: 16g, 7g saturated fat!!!!!

Video Games, text messaging, posting to someones WALL, ordering food online, becoming an online "fan" of Jamba juice, customizing my homepage....there is a plethora of ways that new technologies interact-with, and affect our daily lives. Adults seem to be catching on and catching up just fine--sometimes with a few major hesitations in tow-- but how will the technology boom in society affect our kids? Specifically, how does technology affect our kids health and wellness? Read on for my personal views on this controversial topic.

FACEBOOK

One of the most controversial topics that parents seem to discuss is regarding social networking sites like FACEBOOK, MySpace and Twitter. Teens have embraced these sites with the full force of their passionate adolescent vigor. They shamelessly post photos, quotes, likes and dislikes and share details about their lives that were once considered private such as religion, political views and even weekend plans. But I have been here before. Its the pro-facebook vs. anti-facebook debate. It used to be the pro-cell phone vs. anti-cell phone crowd. Now everyone on the block has a cell phone--kids included.

Facebook, when used WISELY is a great productivity tool to keep in touch with loved ones and friends as well as the world. Charity events, political news and even product/news updates from your favorite brands and personalities (Jamba Juice, Starbucks, Michael Phelps, McCain and Obama) are all made available on FACEBOOK. Kids and adults can grow their friendships while experiencing a personal sense of declaration about ones self. Much like the Trapper Keeper notebook covers of the late 1980's. I was a blue-raindrops girl myself, while my best friend Sarah had a cute kitty with a pink background. There was also the unicorn/rainbow cover and your choice of Care Bears, My Little Pony or my personal favorite, Rainbow Bright. The guys had their choice of red ferrari cars, HeMan or transformers or even traditional superhero characters. Well today's youth can express themselves in a much more complex manner. This can be dangerous if they are not first instructed on the proper social networking etiquette and parental-defined guidelines regarding privacy. Parents can law down their own rules for what is acceptable and not to post. Kids must be taught to be cautious. It has been widely known that employers and college admissions officers will almost always google their young candidates--even rejecting some individuals based on those wild weekend photos that they posted "just for fun".

Another note about FACEBOOK. It can be addictive. Like video games and television. A parent must teach their child to practice self-restraint and only engage in such activities AFTER all thier essential school and housework is done. Its all about the PRIORITIES of the individual. And keeping on top of your work and keeping yourself healthy should be above internet usage.

TEXT MESSAGING

A recent research study concluded that teens age 13-17 averaged around 1800 text messages per month. While the average person text messages around 357 times a month. Shockingly, the 12 and under age bracket averages MORE texts (about 428 a month) than their 25-34 year-old counterparts--who average 331 per month.

What does this mean for our kids health? Text messaging is relatively harmless to ones health--in fact in my opinion, it frees up time for healthy activities such as sports and cooking! Instead of getting on the computer and spending hours INDOORS writing emails and browsing the web, a child can feel free to run and play outside--parents and friends are all just a text message away if need be! Heck, kids can text message from the beach, a soccer game, the Gatorade cooler at a track meet, a farmers market, a yoga class (before class) or even a mountaintop (if you can get service!)

I am a huge fan of text messaging. It keeps me away from my computer, yet doesn't give me that "I'm out of reach" feeling I used to get when I would try and turn off my cell phone!

CELL PHONES AND IPHONES

Big fan. Cell phones are really not just phones anymore are they? They keep our emails, a few photos, connect us to maps and directions, passwords, friends, they store our music and help keep us safe in an emergency. The future of cell phones for health is WIDE and VAST.

Imagine the possibilities.....picture yourself downloading a widget which allows your child to track everything they eat and the amount of exercise they do all day. You could then at the end of the month download all the information onto your computer and discuss your child's wellness. It just may be the QuickBooks for the health-minded. Cell phones also allow us to google the nutritional data on foods we order in restaurants. Cell phones can even come along with us on our workouts and track our calories, MPH and time. And in an emergency--aka a stressful day has somehow allowed you to drive to your local Baskin Robbins or Dunkin Donuts with $20 cash in-hand and an empty tummy--your cell phone can SAVE YOU! Simply call a friend and meet them for a Acai Smoothie at Jamba Juice. Or a Pumpkin Spice Latte (no whip!) at Starbucks.

IN CLOSING...

Overall, I do not think that we should fear how technology will affect our health. Unless you stay inside all day updating your WALL and STATUS 25 times a day--I do not think you should feel guilty to indulge in a good hour to half hour a day of FACEBOOK, LinkedIn, social-networking time. And parents, remember--teens will be teens--and if your ban social networking from their life--you can rest assured that they will find a way around you. Parents DO have an upper edge nowadays--they can GPS their kids! But remember that trusting your kids is the first step to a HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP. And trust begins with proper communication and education on topics from the internet, healthy eating, peer pressure and more.

Like any controversial topic in parenting--communication is key. Ensuring the mental and physical health of your child or teen may be only a twenty minute conversation away. So take the time to talk--face to face....and no-- not with FACEBOOK faces.....

www.facebook.com
TEXT MESSAGE STATS: http://www.realtechnews.com/posts/6081

It's a tomato. It's an onion. It's some lettuce. A slab of cheese. .....BORING!

Kids are missing out on some major nutritional benefits when their diet misses out on FRUIT! Usually fruit is eaten as a sideline food. While veggies are used in recipes. Well here are a few very simple ideas to dress up your FOOD with sweet healthy FRUIT!

....PS .... Can you guess what fruit is in the sandwich pictured here???? Read on to find out! ....its a PEACH!!!

This is a delicious PEACH-CREAM CHEESE-RED ONION-LEMON PEPPER-BIALY SANDWICH! yum right?

Here are a few more ideas:

1. Peachie Cream sandwich (pictured)
-thinly sliced peaches
-tofu or regular cream cheese
-thick sliced red onions soaked in olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper
-crunchy green lettuce leaves
-toasted bialy or bagel.
(stack as a sandwich and enjoy!

2. California-Sweet Burrito
-black beans
-avocado or guacamole
-mandarin oranges
-mango , diced
-green cabbage, shredded
-cilantro
-salsa on side
-burrito tortilla, whole wheat pref'd
(fill tortilla with ingredients, roll and enjoy!)

3. Little Lost Grape Citrus Salad
-sliced grapes, green and red
-diced oranges
-thinly sliced vidalia onions
-thinly sliced green apples, soak in olive oil and black pepper
-spritz of lemon juice
-2 cups arugula
-oil/rice vinegar dressing
(toss well and serve)

4. Cheesy apple-pear Quesadilla
-thinly sliced apples and pears
-mozzarella or veggie cheese
-corn or flour tortillas
(melt cheese on tortillas, in saute pan. Remove from skillet and quickly layer with fruit. Place second tortilla on top. Re-saute both sides for 30 seconds. Do not over heat fruit.)

5. Good Morning Opera Singing Kiwi Cup
-sliced kiwis'
-plain or vanilla yogurt
-granola
-handful of your favorite nuts
(Kiwis taste great in yogurt.... and are high in vitamin C!)

6. Pineapple Maui Onion Veggie Burgers!
This one is a classic. Making your favorite burgers? Simply add a thick vidalia onion as well as a thick slice of pineapple. You can also add another layer of mango or peaches to the burger. If you can open your mouth wide enough---stack it high!!)

...These are just a few suggestions to get you started. Try being creative with FRUIT in your FOOD and your kids (big and small) will adore the sweet tastes you feed them!!!

Kathy

Here are a few photos from the first Stovetop Storytime at Whole Foods Bowery in New York City. My second date of Oct 2nd has been sold out for a while, but hopefully I will have more dates in the future! Blog readers will be the first to know! And here are a few more photos of the event. These first two classes were readings of On the Case: Super Senses! and The Wiggle Jiggle Book.

See the class listings for the Whole Foods Market Culinary Center here:
http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/boweryculinary/culinarycalendar.php

I am excited to announce that The Wiggle Jiggle Book won an Honorable mention in the Children's book category at the 2008 Hollywood Book Festival!

Each year the Hollywood Book Festival draws over 30,000 attendees.

See the announcement of The Lunchbox Bunch win here: www.hollywoodbookfestival.com/winners.htm

About the festival:
www.hollywoodbookfestival.com/index.html

Copies of The Wiggle Jiggle Book will be available for purchase soon on out website!! Check back or email us for the official on-sale announcement.

FESTIVAL INFO:
The daytime festival for the 2008 Hollywood Book Festival will be held at The Grove at Farmers Market, the premiere shopping, entertainment and dining destination in the heart of Hollywood.  The event will be presented in conjunction with Barnes & Noble Booksellers. 
The days activities include author readings, celebrity book signings, panels on the Hollywood/book publishing connection, live music, clowns doing face painting and balloon animals, and all the energy that’s part of a major entertainment event.  
With over 30,000 attendees expected, the Hollywood Book Festival offers extraordinary opportunities for book publishers and authors to reach an active, affluent and educated audience that’s eagerly looking for something to read on vacation!  Please contact us at [email protected] or call 323-665-8080 to obtain an exhibitor’s form

SCHEDULE:
• 10:00 a.m. Vendor area opens, festival begins
• 10:30 a.m. Los Solecitos meet and greet
• 11:00 a.m. *** Best-selling author Christina Schwarz, author of "Drowning Ruth," reading from her new novel, "So Long At The Fair";
• 11:30 a.m. HBF Winner
• 12:00 noon Rocker Richard Barone, former leader of the Bongos and author of "Frontman: Surviving The Rock Star Myth," with a music performance accompanied by a reading from "Three's Company" actress Joyce DeWitt;
• 12:30 p.m. HBF Grand Prize Winner
• 1:00 p.m. *** Sex and the City actor Evan Handler, who will read from his new work, "It's Only Temporary: The Good News and the Bad News of Being Alive";
• 1:30 pm.. *** Terri Cheney, an entertainment attorney whose clients included Michael Jackson, Quincy, Jones, Universal and Columbia, reading from Manic, her account of severe depression
• 2:00 p.m. Music: Ice Age Jazztet
• 2:30 p.m. Emmy-award winning Disney cartoon writer/producer Jess Winfield, reading from his novel, "My Name Is Will";
• 3:00 p.m. ** PANEL DISCUSSION: Writing About Hollywood, With and Without Cooperation. Panelists include Mike Walker of the National Enquirer and author of Get Real; Henrietta Tiefenthaler, author of the Anna Nicole Smith tell-all Train Wreck; Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna, author of Eyewitness Nirvana and a former People magazine writer; and Eric Dubin, celebrity attorney and author of The Star Chamber. Panel will be moderated by former Hollywood Reporter editor-in-chief Alex Ben Block, author of "Outfoxed: The Inside Story of America's Fourth Television Network" and "The Legend of Bruce Lee"
• 4:00 p.m. Entertainment writer David Rensin, reading from his new biography, All For A Few Perfect Waves: The Audacious Life and Legend of Rebel Surfer Miki Dora, who ruled the Malibu surf crowd in the 50s and 60s.
• 4:30 p.m. HBF Winner
• 5:00 p.m. Actress Heather Thomas, reading from her new novel, Trophies
• 5:30 p.m. Music: Liz Nash
END OF FESTIVAL

2008 HOLLYWOOD BOOK FESTIVAL NAMES FIRST APPEARANCES

LOS ANGELES (May 27, 2008) _ The 2008 Hollywood Book Festival has named the first celebrity appearances for its annual daytime festival celebrating books that deserve greater recognition from the film, television, game and multimedia communities.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 12 at The Grove at Farmers Market, one of the premiere entertainment, shopping and dining destinations in Hollywood. All activities are free and open to the public.

Presented in conjunction with Barnes & Noble Booksellers, the Hollywood Book Festival will feature author readings/signings, book publishing panels, live music, book vendors, clowns offering face painting and balloon animals and the bustling ambiance of the Grove's center square.

Authors scheduled to appear include:
• *** Sex and the City actor Evan Handler, who will read from his new work "It's Only Temporary: The Good News and the Bad News of Being Alive";
• *** Star Trek writer Leonard Mlodinow, reading from his new non-fiction work, "The Drunkard's Walk";
• *** Terri Cheney, an entertainment attorney whose clients included Michael Jackson, Quincy, Jones, Universal and Columbia, reading from “Manic,” her account of severe depression;
• *** Rocker Richard Barone, author of "Frontman: Surviving The Rock Star Myth," with a music performance accompanied by a reading from "Three's Company" actress Joyce DeWitt;
• *** Best-selling author Christina Schwarz, author of "Drowning Ruth," reading from her new novel "So Long At The Fair";
• *** Producer Jess Winfield, reading from his new work "My Name Is Will";
• *** Entertainment writer Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna, appearing in support of her new book "Cherry Bomb: The Ultimate Guide .

The Hollywood Book Festival is produced by JM Northern Media LLC, producers of the New York Book Festival and DIY Book Festival, and is sponsored by Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Larimar St. Croix Writers Colony, The Hollywood Creative Directory, eDivvy, Westside Websites and Shopanista

I just returned from an amazing visit to the San Francisco Bay area of California--where I am originally from. During my stay, I took a weekend roadtrip to Lake Tahoe for a friends party. Traveling today is expensive, but one thing that gets CHEAPER as you travel is the prices of my favorite foods... produce! Veggies and fruit prices seem to plummet as you drive out towards the farms...
Lets take a look at just how LOW they can go. AND my Whole Foods Market debate....READ ON! I had STICKER SHOCK as I roamed the aisles of my NYC Whole Foods today. $2.99 a pound for apples, $2.50 per avocado, $2.99 per pound of oranges, 50 cents for one small lime. Now the quality is amazing at my Whole Foods, but its not as farm fresh as the stands along California back country roads. A few of those prices said 39 cents a pound for apples, 5 ears of corn for $1, 2 for $1 avocados, $1 heirloom tomatos...I could go on but you get my point.

We always seem to rave over the quality of life in our big luxurious cities like New York or Boston or Los Angeles. But isn't eating healthfully and affordably a big part of ones quality of life? Now I don't suspect I will be seeing anyone pick up and leave the big cities for 39 cent/pound apples, but with the economy in a headlock right now it feels like eating healthy foods is harder than ever. Since when does one large peach cost $2.74!! (Yes I paid this much for a beautiful one...)

It seems sadly that eating at fast food restaurants might come back in style if the prices of produce don't start to drop for us city dwellers..I love having everything I want just a few blocks away, but is it worth the premium price? And is my quality of life in the higher-paying job city area really BETTER than those in farmland, USA????

All I want is the old days when farm fresh peaches were on sale for 19 cents a pound... Not $2.74 per peach......

Have you ever had a knish? I mean a homemade, all-natural, warm from the oven knish? If so, you know that a knish is....DELISH! And your mouth is already watering from the food photo of the flaky, tender and plump munchie. If not, please please read on and discover a knish, a soul-satisfying bundle of potato goodness! At only 300 calories per GIANT knish...how can you miss this food find..... (since 1910!! ...These Knishes must be the BEST!)



WHAT IS A KNISH???

Made from the main ingredient POTATOES--A knish is a small round "pie" with a dough outside, stuffed with filling such as spinach, sweet potato, kasha or mushroom. A knish is about the size of a softball and VEGAN--no dairy, eggs or meat (unless specified).

Knishes can be bought warm or cold and easily heated up in the microwave or oven. One potato knish (large size) has only 300 calories--and is very filling.

My knish discovery began when I decided to research a curious little store on Houston street in NYC'S LES. I had walked by this quaint little store (right next to Sunshine Movie Theater) literally hundreds of times, but never went inside. What is a knish anyways??? I always asked myself. The window was usually full of plump little knishes-warm from the oven. But still I only scowled at the place and moved on.

Until recently I decided to research this store--Yonah Schimmels Knishes-- on yelp.com.

The reviews were all very high. And after researching the healthy properties of an all natural potato based knish, I decided I HAD TO TRY THIS PLACE!

So first thing Tuesday morning I was excited to see the store was open. I went inside to be greeted by a sweet man at the counter. I asked, are there any flavors that are dairy free?
He looked at me curiously..." there are NO butter, eggs, dairy in any knish." Ah perfect!! I was thrilled. I ordered a spinach and a sweet potato knish. $3 each. I got a few beverages too and was very excited. I was shocked at the heavy weight of my tiny bag.

I got home, heated a sweet potato knish in the microwave for 90 seconds and it came out warm and fluffy--the microwave really did it well.

It smelled delish! Like warm sweet potatoes--like a pot pit, without all the unhealthy stuff!!

THE TASTE

YUM! I will definitely be adding THE KNISHERY to my list of yummy stops along the way home.....

Live in NYC? Check out the Knishery at 137 e. Houston st. Its been in business since 1910!!!

Not in the area?? Well you can actually order a dozen knishes online! www.knishery.com

Its $85 including shipping, but trust me--I think it is worth a try. These knishes must be the best around, and if you are going to eat a knish--I am guessing it MUST be fresh and made with the highest quality ingredients--which YONAH SCHIMMEL'S DOES!!

Warm knishes...yum...

and isn't there some line from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that references a KNISH?...... hmmmm

www.knishery.com
www.yelp.com

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I trekked across town. Took two stinky subway trains. Got off at the wrong stop and had to hike through a Friday morning tourist-packed Times Square. Went down the wrong street-twice. Mistook 43rd street for 40th street. Turned around. Went the wrong way on 6th Avenue. Then finally made it..... to where you ask? Read on to find out my favorite thing. Hint: It was well worth the trek across NYC from the LES to Bryant Park--even if it was a "PAIN" in the bum..... What is it that I trekked across town for? My favorite thing to munch on in the mornings-- that I simply can't make myself???

A Le PAIN Quotidien Vegan Blueberry Muffin! (Pronounce moofin in these parts). It is chewy yet moist. Crumbly yet firm. The sugary top goes perfectly with the caramel colored whole grain moist inside. Those little perfect blueberries scattered throughout. I always buy six at once--and freeze them for the week. I carry them home in a secure tote as if they are little chunks of gold. Clusters of healthy deliciousness. Anyone who has trekked through Times Square on a FRIDAY....knows these muffins must be good....

Everyone has obsessions...food munchie favorites... what are yours??? Here are a few more of mine:

FAVORITE....

Muffin: (Duh) Le Pain's Vegan Blueberry Muffin
Runner up: Strawberry-Peach from Angelika Cafe

Smoothie: Papaya Paradise from Liquiteria in NYC (Added: Spirulina and Aloe Vera)
Runner Up: Jamba Juice Acai Antioxidant, no sherbet-sub blueberries (Added: Vita and energy boosts)

Delivery Meal: Caravan of Dreams (NYC) Tofu-pesto sandwich, hot soup of the day, coconut water, side of rice and seitan, oh and maybe some carrot cake. (Don't forget the extra lemon-basil dressing!! Closed face too!)
Runner Up: GoBo in NYC's West Village...but they don't deliver in my range anymore....booooo! I miss that Butternut Squash Risotto and Seitan Skewers with mustard sauces....!

Movie Munchies: Popcorn--no butter! One or two twizzlers--stolen from my date, aka husband.

Under $15, To-Go Dinner, even though its out of delivery range: Cafeteria's Vegan Veggie Burger (nyc, Chelsea). It's delicious.
Runner up: Dare I say, Chipotle? Rice, beans, veggies, guac, salsa and lettuce.....none of the "bad" stuff I assure you. (Sigh, I miss real California mexican food though...)

Coffee: Gimme Coffee!'s Soy Latte. Best coffee downtown.
Runner Up: Le Pain's large soy latte. (All over the world-thank goodness!) (Can I get a muffin with that?)
(sorry Starbucks)...try coming out with that soy Frapp and maybe we can talk...

Interesting-Non-Mainstream Dining Experience: The Kitchen Club in nyc.
Runner Up: Blossom in nyc.
Outside of nyc: Vix in Miami and (Palapas in Santa Cruz, CA....for sentimental reasons!)

Favorite Food on the Beach: Delivered-to-my-Umbrella Garlic Hummus and Pita from Delano's Blue Door/Sky...something blue....in South Beach, Miami Florida. (Delano is also my favorite hotel in the world....but this is the favorite munchies list.)

Favorite Pizza: Pizza Paradiso in Georgetown, DC
Runner Up: Lombardi's in NYC.....but only on Halloween--sangria included.

Favorite "Dress up" Restaurant: Morimoto in nyc...also Le Bernadin can't be beat...
Runner Up: Felidia in nyc, or Vix in South Beach.

I'm running out of favorites right now, but there are so many more..

Last but not least:

Favorite Beverage: Fresh Young Coconut Water from Organic Avenue in nyc
Runner Up: Acai Juice from Samzabon brand. (In the original purple bottle)

...What are YOUR fav's????? I'd love to hear them in the comments section!

Happy Friday--my third favorite day of the week.

Labor Day is this weekend, so it may be your last chance at a true summertime BBQ.
So here's a water-cooler question: What are the top ten BEST fruit options for the grill? Read on to see if your top-ten list matches ours...

My official end-of-summer list of fruit that tastes great grilled. Here it is:

Top Ten Fruits to "Throw" on the Grill

10. Nectarines
9. Apples
8. Papaya
7. Apricots
6. Pears
5. Peaches
4. Figs
3. Bananas
2. Mango

..and #1 is...

1. Pineapple!

(You can't beat a thick slice of grilled pineapple to top off a veggie burger. (The non-vegans will even love a slice of fresh fruit on their burger...although I recommend the veggie burger option!)Add some salsa and mango chutney and you are in grillers heaven!

Do you have any other fruit ideas to add to my list?

Did I forget something yummy? Add it to the comments...

Happy Grilling.

I remember Michael Jordan with his gentle smile, nodding his head and scooping up a spoonful of crunchy brown flakes, saying "Eat your Wheaties kids!" I also remember the boys in my junior high and high school classes saying their favorite cereal was Wheaties....was there a connection there? Some may argue no, but I say yes!
Michael Phelps the most decorated Olympic athlete ever has chosen to plaster his face all over....wait for it kids...

.....boxes of FROSTED FLAKES. Is this a MAJOR PHELPS PHLUB?. Nutritionists everywhere are saying the same thing.... "With the obesity epidemic in our country, it is shocking that Michael Phelps would even consider choosing a very unhealthy cereal such as Kellogs Frosted Flakes to proclaim his cereal-box glory status."

"I would not consider Frosted Flakes the food of an Olympian," said nutritionist Rebecca Solomon of Mount Sinai Medical Center.

Frosted Flakes...perhaps now called PHROSTED PHLAKES???...is basically a bowl full of sugar. And I cannot imagine any parent would be happy about being forced into buying a box for their Phelps Phan children. Even if you are a head strong healthy treat toting parent, you may somehow find yourself purchasing a box of this stuff--just for the iconic image on the box.

The question begins....NOW WHAT? Do I let my kids eat this stuff? Do I secretly replace the frosted white flakes with something I bought at Whole Foods? (A la Deceptively Delicious, Jessica Seinfeld style...) Or do I allow the kids the joy of gulping down the sugary spoonfuls--and call it dessert instead of "the breakfast of gold-medalists...."

OR...do I simply let them try the creamy white sugar-flakes, let them get a sugar high, and then tell them how unhealthy that sugar high is? Yeah right. We all know that cold cereal of the SUGAR in a BOWL variety (Pops, Cocoa Crispies, Cocoa Puffs, Lucky Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Count Chocula....) are ALL like Kiddie Cocaine. Kids try it once and THEY ARE HOOKED! They want more! Heck, they could probably eat the whole box in one sitting. They will never go back to your Fiber-in-a-bowl healthy brand, like Kashi, Whole Foods 365 cereal, Barbara's Bakery, Puffins, ect....

C'mon feel the advertising pressure. Give in. Be a "cool mom". Afterall....Frosted Flakes....or "Frosties"....are in fact VEGAN! What could be better, right?

My advice. If YOU MUST purchase the box...really THROW THE CONTENTS AWAY! What do I sound extreme? Better safe than sorry right? Lets not end up having to detox kids from this liquid sugar breakfast....I say the withdrawal symptoms of eating an entire box of Frosted Flakes will be much worse than simply never experiencing the "joy" that comes from indulging in it.

With SO MANY healthy treats or even breakfast snacks out there....Snackimals, Whole Foods vegan cookies, Le Pain Quotidian vegan blueberry muffins, Amy's brand breakfasts, Frozen Yogurt with fresh fruit, homemade blueberry pancakes, ect..... Why feed your kids junk for a treat or breakfast when you don't really have to? But that's just my advice. One bowl of FF certainly won't hurt them.......certainly won't destroy all the healthy values you have instilled in them.......

...or will it?

www.kelloggs.com

Its the end of July...its hot....its humid...everyone seems to be "taking a week off" to go frolic on a white sandy shore and bask in clear yellow sun rays--the sound of crashing glassy aqua waves in the background.....

But wait. Where's your vacation???

Are you feeling a little left out? Are you finding yourself slumped over your desk at 7pm muttering to yourself, "I need a vacation. I need a vacation. I need a vacation."

Well stop the dreary chanting and start giving yourself the vacation you deserve....without leaving your desk.....hmmm there must be a catch....click through to read more....

OK so if you are missing out on that "TROPICAL ISLAND PARADISE VACATION" this year...blame it on the horrendous airline system and gas prices....

here are a few steps to stop the pity-party and start a little self relaxation.

1. BUY an AMAZING body oil..I recommend the ESPA brand in the FITNESS blend fragrance.

---the next step is to keep this oil at your desk and rub it on your temples, over your arms and hands and elbows whenever you need a little pick-me-up. (ESPA is the same brand that the glorious Mandarin Oriental Hotel chain uses in its world-class spas)
www.espaonline.com

2. DEEP BREATHING/VISUALIZATION/ALL THAT HIPPY STUFF....So I know you hate to hear it, but deep breathing and visualization can work wonders for your mind/body and spirirt. So stop the "I need a vacation" chanting and close you eyes, inhale through you nose slowly and picture your favorite relaxing spot. A warm sandy beach, a cool lava rock by a waterfall, a cool misty bamboo forrest....a hotel pool..whatever gives your that "ahhhhh" feeling.

3. LUNCHBREAK--Vacation...Cut the soup and salad and go for a tropical island lunch! Order a pineapple-mango smoothie or a grilled pineapple veggie burger. Stick a Coconut Water in the fridge and drink it when you are feeling thirsty. Snack on macadamia nuts and dried papaya. Chug acai or a bit of POG---(if you can find it!)

Overall the point is to not get down on yourself if you are not able to jet to FIJI this season. It will just make your next getaway that much better....and you should feel good about not being one of the vacationers to pay $600 a night for a hotel room or $1500 for roundtrip airfare. Your desktop vacay should be under $20!

WWW.ESPAONLINE.COM
WWW.JAMBAJUICE.COM
WWW.ZICO.COM
http://www.hawaiipictures.com/

Skipping down the aisle at my local NYC Whole Foods market I cannot help but feel overwhelmed by the amount of marketing hyjinx that surround me left to right, toe to tip top of my head. Blue bunny's selling crackers, laughing cow's selling cheese, swimming ducks selling cookies and even a bright red Elmo character selling oatmeal. Is this what our food has evolved to? Have we forgotten the entire point of healthy eating? It's not about the "experience"--its about the food. Every box and bottle seems to be selling something other than the actual food:

ENERGY
HAPPINESS
ZEN
PURITY
MENTAL POWER

Vitamin Water sells everything from energy to relaxation to mental focus. So it makes me wonder--why even bother with "real food" when I can drink my happiness and eat it too!

Kid and adult food packaging has gotten out of control. How will kids ever learn the true meaning of food if all they crave is the box with the seven foot yellow bird on it??

Can Kids Ever be Happy with SIMPLE HEALTHY FOOD? TRY THIS TEST:

I dare you to do a marketing test on your own kids:
Put in front of them several foods. One of which is in its original form and one of which is branded and marketed with characters, colors or toys. Try this:
Gather, an apple-sliced by hand.
A glass of milk or chocolate milk (soy, almond, dairy or rice milk).
A glass of fresh squeezed orange juice.
A hand made peanut butter and sandwich-using organic low in sugar ingredients.
And a bowl of handmade trail mix--even with a few dark chocolate chips in it.

Then on the other side of the table place a character-branded juice box.
A character branded milk box (same flavor as used above.
One of those welches kid-branded freezer section pb and j sandwiches (loaded in sugar)
And a kid-branded granola bar--maybe even without any chocolate chips!

...Now let them choose! Free will!

If your child chooses all the healthy non-branded items---bravo to you, lunch can be served!

...But if your kid is only human, and chooses the marketed, glittered and less-healthy options, you can continue the exercise with a taste test...

Try a blind taste test of all the ingredients.

Then ask your child which they preferred in taste.

If they choose the healthy stuff-yay for pure young taste buds.
But if they have a taste for the less healthy items, you've got a bit more work to do. Next, try explaining to your child which items are loaded with sugar and which items are healthy in vitamins and nutrients that will help them grow strong!

Check out some of the FUN FOOD FACTS at the lUNCHBOX bUNCH WEBSITE. ONLINE HERE:

http://www.lunchboxbunch.com/funfacts.html

And next time you go to the store, spend a lot of time in the non-branded fruit and veggies sections--and try to spark some interest and curiosity in you child for healthier options. You can even print out a CIRCLE-IT GROCERY LIST featuring the Lunchbox Bunch characters.

ONLINE HERE:
http://www.lunchboxbunch.com/GroceryList.html

--

With the recent TOMATO SCARE...expert sources, well the FDA, are encouraging consumers to stop buying tomatoes--unless they are left ON-THE-VINE. (Cherry, locally grown and home-grown tomatoes may also be OK...)

Gosh, what does that mean? Just why do the tomatoes left on the vine get the stamp of approval, and all the other red plump tomatoes are banished from our plates? Well the answer is not so obvious.-- After MUCH searching, I could not get a clear answer from the FDA about why on-the-vine is OK...for this "tomato scare situation".

BUT NO FEAR...

I have a few other reasons why you should feel good about choosing produce still left on the vine, on the branch or with root in tact!

Lets look quickly at GRAPES (left on the vine--as they almost always are found).

Grapes, by nature are "on-the-vine" fruit! This fact is one reason why grapes are such an amazing antioxidant snack! Since they come packaged on the vine--they are getting a happy "to-go bag" from the vine they were plucked from.

We pay more for tomatoes left on the vine because they stay fresher longer and more nutrients are kept in tact. So we should not take for granted that grapes are another "ON THE VINE" product.

What does the VINE, LEAF, BRANCH, ROOT or STEM do?
The vines are like a "to-go" bag from the tree or vine that a piece of produce is from. A vine or branch left in-tact can prolong the life and nutrients in the fruit or veggie. You will notice that over time, the vine or branches left in-tact on picked produce will shrivel or become black--in essence, USED. Yet the produce will stay fresh and healthy. The vine, branch, leaf, whatever, is doing its job of supporting the picked produce.

So the next time you munch some grapes and pluck them from their vine--just realize that you are plucking --in a way--freshly picked fruit!! And we all know that fresh is always best for taste and nutrition.

Read on for MORE produce that can STAY ON THE VINE...OR STEM..OR LEAF...OR BRANCH!

....other fruits and veggies that can be found "still on the vine or branch" at purchase:

cherries with the stem attached, some peaches with the leaves still attached, corn in the husk, sprouts still in their rooted bed, radishes and carrots with the stalks still attached, pineapples with healthy stalks, tomatoes on the vine, strawberries with long stems and leaves still attached and even hydroponic boston lettuce with the roots still attached.

...just compare a pre-cut baby carrot to a freshly chopped heart of a stalked carrot--
--the fresh carrot will have a stronger fresh carrot smell and flavor, and more nutrients un-oxidized--in tact.

YAY for fresh produce--especially produce with a to-go bag from its original plant....

Its hot. I'm still mad a t Starbucks. And Jamba Juice is about twenty blocks west in SoHo. What is a person to do? Lug out that blender and start blending your own healthy delicious smoothies of course! No, lets not do the boring banana strawberry or pineapple-mango smoothies...lets think of a few NEW EXCITING AND CREATIVE FLAVOR COMBOS!!!!

Todays smoothie is a lightweight--less fruit--more ice--more hydrating refreshment. We're going to start out with a slushie-smoothie--and later this week, we'll build into the more heftier fruit smoothies.

TODAYS SMOOTHIE FLAVOR:
LITTLE LOST GRAPE SLUSHIE SIPPER

-2 cups organic concord grape juice
-2 cups ice
-the juice of one lemon
-the juice of one orange
-(optional) one handful of frozen blueberries or blackberries

BLEND--and enjoy!

YUM--grape slushie smoothie-

-refreshing and high in ANTIOXIDANTS!

...CHEERS TO THE SUNSHINE....

These are common headlines we seem to see lately. It seems that "simplifying one life" is the new crash diet of the eighties. Dieting ones tasks and objects to in turn "simplify".

Crash dieting: throwing out all the junk food.

Crash simplification?

Toss out the TiVo, throw away the pile of magazines, donate your Starbucks card to a homeless man. But just what does it really mean to 'simplify' ones life? Is it even possible?

Look at the today's societal challenges marching against us..... (Ahem...) .....Cell phones, mini video cameras, triple venti extra-hot iced soy vanilla lattes, iced mochas with and without whip, twenty-seven check-out stands at Whole Foods, take-out delivery past midnight (3am on weekends), TiVo, reality shows, a thousand channels of cable, Secretary's Day, doormen, tipping, public transportation schedules, airline security, Internet identity theft, opentable.com, $200 True Religion jeans, Prada, High Fashion, Paparazzi, 24 hour CNN, Howard Stern, Hugh Hefner, Hillary Clinton, Britney Spears, Gordan Ramsey, Brandgelina, terrorists, bomb threats, hurricanes, earthquakes, school shootings, the Cheesecake Factory menu, pregnant teen stars, Paris goes to jail, the closing bell report, soup of the day, movie tickets online, TMZ, PerezHilton, The View, Fox News, Pro Sports, nutrition facts, HGH, mobile web, and all things Mac-- (did I miss anything?)--this world is not getting any simpler anytime soon. But instead of tossing our Prada heels into the street and booking a one-way ticket to Fiji...I offer a different approach to rethinking this so-called process to "SIMPLIFY ones life." These are five easy steps to help you RETHINK SIMPLIFICATION.

RECENT HEADLINES INDICATE....
The recent article from Parenting.com preaches easy steps to simplify--asking, "What Does it Take to Simplify?"
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/05/20/simplify.your.life/index.html
In this article, the author asks, "What Does it Take to Simplify One's Life?" Suggestions include to: "Say NO." "Ask for Help." "Plan Ahead" "Let Yourself Off the Hook." and "Do One Thing at Once." Instant reaction to these suggestions: what are we? Guilt-infused, obsessive compulsive, sobbing adults who overwhelm ourselves with tasks we can't get done on our own and then fall into a depressive slow-down in response to our failure? Well maybe...but here are MY FIVE EASY STEPS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE---or re-think simplification altogether.

NUMBER ONE: Simplify Your Goals, Not Your Tasks.

"They" suggest you should cut out, aka, "simplify" your tasks when you are feeling overwhelmed. I disagree. Instead...cut down--simplify-- your goals. Figure out those top few things in life that you want really really bad. Those top goals that drive you to push harder and further everyday. Then do whatever it takes to be successful at those things.

Examples of goals: getting a promotion at your job, being a good mom, spending enough time with your spouse.

Or: Moving to a new city in the next year, developing your creative hobby into a business, caring for your pet.

Or: Traveling more this year, buying a new house and fixing it up, practicing a healthy lifestyle everyday.
So instead of obsessing about tasks--focus on what you want--not on how much you have to do to get there.

Any good goal will require hard work and discipline--and a lot of tasks to achieve.

NUMBER TWO: Say No. (But Only to SAY YES.)

The article calls to SAY NO, more often. Gee, how original. I hate this advice. I picture a stressed out mother at her desk in her sweats and slippers, screaming "No!" into her cell phone, cancelling all her appointments and lunchdates and once her schedule is FREE (cue the angels singing in background) ...she cowers in her dark bedroom left alone-sobbing at how guilty she feels for letting everyone-including herself- down. Most people end up feeling guilty when they Say No. So while I think we should practice this action of saying no to unwanted tasks and appointments--every time you say no--say YES to something worth your time. Say no to a long lunch with distant friends or co-workers, so that you can say yes to putting in an extra hour workout to tend to your healthy lifestyle goal. Say NO to seeing that new movie right away, to say YES to spending the afternoon reading books with your spouse. Say NO to reading TMZ and YES to writing a post on your blog.

NUMBER THREE: Don't Prioritize!!! It only leads to guilt....

Yes that's right--stop prioritizing!! Its like running on a treadmill--it gets you nowhere. Now if you have your top goals in line--as in step number one--you have no need to "prioritize tasks" Lets face it--maybe your job is number one, but your Jcrew credit card bill is due tomorrow--are you going to stay at your desk and finish an un-urgent report--or rush to the post office to mail the bill? If you "prioritize" all the tasks that make up your day--you will be running on that treadmill. Anytime you get something done, you will be left feeling guilty for the things you have yet to do that you thought were your "top priorities" Sometimes we have to take out the garbage even though we want to skip ahead to our enjoyable tasks.

NUMBER FOUR: Admit that humans (you) are COMPLEX: And SIMPLIFY your things.

Unless you are living on a desert island with nothing but your coconut count and suntan to stress over, I can pretty much assure you that your life is only going to get more complex the longer it is lived. True, you may learn to manage stress, tasks, goals and people better--but still--it will be more complex--even if you don't notice it because you are managing it so well. Just think back to the days when your greatest worry was whether to spent Friday night with your best friend Sara or go over to Bobby's house for pizza. All while trying to finish your book report on "To Kill a Mockingbird." Simple as sunshine to you now right?
So my advice--stop "simplifying" yourself--because it's not possible--and simplify your things. Cut down your purchasing or new stuff until you sort through the old stuff. Cut down on the "miscellaneous" category of things in your life. If you can't say "I LOVE this!" about a thing--maybe its not worth keeping around.

NUMBER FIVE: Re embrace CHAOS!

I love this last tip. We are a generation of OCD pill-poppers and Desperate Housewives. We bow down to Martha Stewart when she showcases her fifty-five types of butter cream frosting cupcakes and twenty ways to poach an egg. We adore our folders which organize our computer, our labeled drawers and "Container Store" mentality of life. Well I say....STOP IT!!! Stop the obsessive organizing that is "simplifying and organizing your life." This type of mentality only leads to an obsession for perfection. A quest for perfection muffles creativity, dampens happiness and squelches the possibility of stumbling upon inspiration. Embrace chaos once in a while--leave your desk messy and have an unplanned long lunchbreak. Spend an hour walking the long way home simply to give your brain a vacation from predictability. Enjoy the chaos that occurs during rush hour--a crowded subway--beating the closing doors to "make the train"-- find joy in the final minutes before a big presentation-with last minute changes and tweaks to be made-- smile at the after-work supermarket chaos with clogged aisles and customers crunching on un-purchased chips as they wait in line. Chaos stimulates the brain--and who knows what creative idea may pop out of your mouth when you give it a little squeeze or two of CHAOS.

SIMPLE END POINT: CRASH SIMPLIFYING YOUR LIFE IS LIKE CUTTING OUT CARBS ON A CRASH DIET.....IT SOUNDS LIKE A SOLUTION, BUT ITS REALLY JUST PUNISHMENT. STOP DEPRIVING YOURSELF OF CARBS--AND COMPLEXITY--IT WILL MAKE LIFE A HECK OF A LOT SIMPLER.

Here is a simple top ten list of foods that I eat almost everyday. Check it out and add them to your diet as well!

1. Coconut Water: for optimal hydration and potassium intake--electrolyte replenishment.
Try ZICO, Vita CoCo, O.N.E, and fresh young coconut juice from your local health store...

2. Acai Juice: for omega fats, protein, and amazing antioxidant replenishment. Try Samzabon brand. Triple flavor have acai, blueberry and pomegranate blend!

3. Umeboshi plums (asian pickled plums): This is an interesting one....many traditional asian culture say that one umeboshi a day will lead to strength, vitality and digestive health. Umeboshi is a pickled plum--it is an ancient food creation process and was eaten by samari warriors for quick strength. Umeboshi can be found an asian grocery stores and in the asian section at Whole Foods. Umeboshi is an amazing alkalizer...meaning if you have an overly acidic body--umeboshi will help regulate the acid-alkaline balance in your body.

4. Brazil Nut: Just one Brazil nut a day ensures you that you are getting 100% RDA of selenium intake...selenium is an important nutrient that some people are deficient in. (PS..your mom probably had these, but didn't know their value..)

5. Probiotic Yogurt--Helps keep your digestive and immune system healthy and strong! My favorite brand is BIO-KPlus. These tiny yogurt shots are expensive at almost $4 a shot, but this brand is amazing! They even have a dairy-free version with soy that I love. You can't find a better dairy-free option. The flavor is very yummy and its a great morning ritual to acquire. If can't miss my morning bio-kplus shot now!

6. Olive Oil--OK, not too unique, and your mother probably DID have this super food....but did she have the same 50+ bottle selection at her local health food/Whole foods store??? Probably not....Trying different brands and flavors keeps it fun and interesting to consume this amazingly healthy good-for-your-whole-body fat.

7. Green or White Tea/ or Yerba Mate--Teas are becoming known for their amazing antioxidant benefits as well as incredible phytochemical substances. Gosh, green tea has been found to contain a number of healing phytochemicals--white tea is even more concentrated, but a bit more pungent to drink. Yerba Mate--a new tea to the main stream crowd is like a SUPER TEA...A great brand is Guayaki.

A quick explanation of the difference between green tea and yerba mate:
While yerba mate and green tea share many of the same benefits, (antioxidants, polyphenols, flavenoids, bio flavenoids, and theophylline) modern science shows that yerba mate has 52 more active compounds than green tea. There are 196 active compounds in yerba mate compared to the 144 found in green tea. In fact, yerba mate can boast higher polyphenol and antioxidant counts than either green or black teas.

8. Goji Berries--Goji berries are one of those super foods that you may have heard of, but haven't quite tried for yourself. I did a whole post devoted to this fantastic super food...so check it out in archives

9. Tempeh and Seitan--Its true that tofu has long been the number one meat replacement for getting a complete protein. But if you haven't tried seitan or tempeh yet--you are missing out!! These complete protein "meat replacers" are delicious and add a more sophisticated texture and taste to your vegan friendly meal plate! Seitan is basically wheat gluten protein and tempeh is fermented soy beans. Sounds gross, but trust me--seitan can taste better and more tender and succulent than the best meat--if prepared by a master. Here in NYC, GoBo's seitan skewers with two mustard dipping sauces and pickled papaya--is an absolutly crave-worthy dish...

10. Sprouts--Your mother may have loaded up that turkey and cheese sandwich with alfalfa sprouts..but these are not the sprots I am talking about. Sprouts and micro greens are being found to contain amazing phytochemical properties in concentrated quantities compared to their full-grown sibling plants... BROCCO-SPROUTS has been found to contain the antioxidant SGS--which supposedly "lasts for days" instead of hours--like other antioxidants. See the BroccoSprouts website for more info... www.broccosprouts.com
But these sprouts are amazing in pitas, on sandwiches or tossed into salads. They are slightly more hearty and zesty than traditional alfalfa sprouts.

11. Mushrooms--OK, so I promised ten...but how could I forget my favorite veggie--MUSHROOMS! So yes your mom probably served you plenty of white button shrooms with your dinner or on a homemade pizza...but did she serve you delicious shiitake, portobella, crimini, chanterelle, oyster or hen of the woods mushrooms? I doubt t. Mushrooms are being founf to have some amazing phytochemical properties...and taste absolutely gourmet. The five star Michelin chefs of the world would not survive in their kitchen without some high quality shrooms....so cheers to mushrooms. Try shiitake and portobella first, then take a stab at those higher priced chanterelles for a real gourmet kick to your at-home meal! Read more about the phytochemicals in my phytochemicals blog post.

Have any suggestions to this list???? Things I left out?

Let me know!!!!

UPDATE: A few of you wrote in to suggest these foods:

Whole Wheat/LIVE sprouted grain pasta, breads and tortillas

HEMP and HEMPmilk

Macadamia nuts and oil

Coconut Oil

Quinoa and Spelt grains

Taro root chips instead of potato chips

Dark chocolate--80% dark! (how could i forget chocolate!)

...more to come...

Paying two to five dollors a bottle for glass bottled iced tea doesn't seem all that good for my health. Why must I pay this much for something that really only contains water and tea. Sometimes other natural flavors I can find all around my kitchen....mint, lemon, honey.
Well in order to maintain my mental sanity over paying way too much for a tasty ice cold iced tea beverage...I will make my own, show you how easy it is, and for a fraction of the price I's pay in that store down the street.

So today I decided to make honey-lemon-mint-green iced tea. I bought the exact same thing at a health food store for 3.49 yesturday.

The steps are simple, and the homemade version will taste MUCH MUCH better--the fresher, the better.

BUZZWORD: PHYTOCHEMICALS.

Phytochemicals are a new breed of nutritional analysis. The term "phytochemicals" gets thrown around a lot when discussing the health benefits of fruits and veggies. Well unlike the short list of vitamins you may hear about...vitamins A,D,E,K,C,B'S,...ect...

....there are over 900 phytochemicals . And that only counts for the ones that have been identified.

Some of the major phytohemical groups include flavonoids and carotenoids.

But lets slow doen. Just WHAT IS a phytochemical, and why are they only found in fruits and vegetables?

A bit of science background: A phytochemical is quite simply any unique characteristic in the form of a property/chemical substance that a plant/fruit contains. These characteristics have developed over the course of millions of years in order to help the plant survive through the harsh environment of the earth. Plants are living things and their only defenses are the unique properties that they can develop through evolution over time--properties which enable survival. Tomatoes red coor help attract the precious sunrays, the thick nutrient dense skin of an orange helps protect the delicate inner flesh and the dark purple nutrient rich flesh of an acai berry helps it survive the harsh environment of the brazillian rainforrest.
Getting back to the basics.

The plain description is this:
"A phytochemical is a natural bioactive compound found in plant foods that works with nutrients and dietary fiber to protect against disease. Research suggests that phytochemicals, working together with nutrients found in fruits, vegetables and nuts, may help slow the aging process and reduce the risk of many diseases, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cataracts, osteoporosis, and urinary tract infections."
CHEMICALS--phytochemicals--react together.
One very interesting area of current research is how certain phytochemicals can combine and work together. It makes perfect sense that in science when to unique chemical properties combine, a third chemical may form which has a different reaction on the body than either of the substances alone.
It has been shown that phytochemicals can have complementary and overlapping mechanisms of action in the body, including:
antioxidant effects,
creation of detoxification enzymes,
stimulation of the immune system,
modulation of hormone metabolism,
and antibacterial and antiviral effect.

*Note: Many phytochemicals are connected to the unique COLORS of foods--that is why it is so important to eat a diet richin colorful fruits and veggies.

So what are the TYPES of phytochemical?

Carotenoids
Carotenoids are the pigments responsible for the colors of many red, green, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are a large family of phytochemicals which include alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, cryptoxanthin, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and others.

Flavonoids
Flavonoids are another large family of protective phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids, also called bioflavonoids, act as antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize or inactivate highly unstable and extremely reactive molecules, called free radicals, that attack the cells of our body every day. Free radical damage is believed to contribute to a variety of health problems, including cancer, heart disease and aging. There are many different types of flavonoids and each appears to have protective health effects. Some of the better known flavonoids include resveratrol, anthocyanins, quercetin, hesperidin, tangeritin, kaempferol, myricetin, and apigenin. Flavonoids are found in a variety of foods, such as oranges, kiwifruit, grapefruit, tangerines, berries, apples, red grapes, red wine, broccoli, onions, and green tea.

Phenolic Compounds
Phenolic compounds may reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Phenolic compounds may be found in berries, prunes, red grapes and red grape juice, kiwifruit, currants, apples and apple juice, and tomatoes.

OTHER GROUPS:
Sulphoraphane
Sulphoraphane is in a class of phytochemicals called isothiocyanates. Sulphoraphane may reduce the risk of colon cancer. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, bok choy, collard greens, turnips and turnip greens contain sulphoraphane.
Limonene
Limonene is in a class of phytochemicals called mono-terpenes. It is found in the rinds and the edible white membranes of citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons and limes. Limonene may help to protect the lungs and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Indoles
This family of phytochemicals may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer. Indoles are found in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, bok choy, collard greens, watercress, and turnips and turnip greens.
Allium Compounds
Allium compounds may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Garlic, onions, chives, leeks, and scallions contain allium compounds.

The following is a list of researched fruits and veggies and the phytochemicals which they contain, as posted by leading health expert at tonytantillo.com's reference shelf.

Apples and apple juice contain phenolic compounds which may protect against heart disease.

Apricots (fresh and dried) contain beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Blackberries contain ellagic acid which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and decrease cholesterol levels.

Blueberries contain anthocyanins which may protect against the effects of aging. Blueberries also contain ellagic acid which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and decrease cholesterol levels.

Bok Choy contains a variety of phytochemicals including sulphoraphane and indoles.

Broccoli contains many different phytochemicals including sulphoraphane, indoles, beta-carotene, lutein, and quercetins. These phytochemicals may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, protect against macular degeneration and cataracts, reduce inflammation associated with allergies, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Broccoli sprouts contain sulphoraphane which may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Brussel sprouts contain a variety of phytochemicals including sulphoraphane and indoles. These phytochemicals may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Cabbage contains a variety of phytochemicals including sulphoraphane and indoles. These phytochemicals may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Cantaloupe contains beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Carrots contain beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Cauliflower contains a variety of phytochemicals including sulphoraphane and indoles. These phytochemicals may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Cherries contain anthocyanins which may protect against the signs of aging. Cherries also contain quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Chives contain allium compounds that may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines contain hesperidin and tangeritin which act as antioxidants to reduce the risk of heart disease and various types of cancer. Citrus fruits also contain limonene which may protect the lungs.
Collard greens contain lutein which may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Collard greens also contain indoles and sulphoraphane which may help decrease the risk of certain types of cancer.

Corn contains zeaxanthin which may help to prevent macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of visual impairment in people over 50.

Currants contain ellagic acid which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and decrease cholesterol levels.

Garlic contains allium compounds which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancers and lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Garlic also contains quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Kale contains a variety of phytochemicals including beta carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes and lutein which may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Kale also contains indoles and sulphoraphane which may help decrease cancer risk and quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Kiwifruit contains a variety of phytochemicals, including beta-carotene, lutein, anthocyanins, and ellagic acid. These phytochemicals may reduce the risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
Leaf Lettuce contains quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Leeks contain allium compounds which reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and may lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Mangoes contain beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Onions contain allium compounds which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Onions also contain quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Papaya contain beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Pears contain quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Pink grapefruit contains lycopene which may decrease risk for prostate cancer and heart disease. Pink grapefruit also contains hesperidin and tangeritin which act as antioxidants to reduce the risk of heart disease and various types of cancer as well as limonene which may protect the lungs.

Plums contain anthocyanins which may help protect against the signs of aging.

Prunes contain phenolic compounds which act as antioxidants that may prevent the loss of long-term memory and learning ability.

Pumpkins contain beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Raisins contain phenolic compounds that may act as powerful antioxidants to help slow the aging process.

Raspberries contain ellagic acid which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and decrease cholesterol levels.

Red grapes and grape juice contain resveratrol and ellagic acid which may lower the risk of heart disease and certain forms of cancer.. Red grapes also contain quercetins which may reduce inflammation associated with allergies, inhibit the growth of head and neck tumors, and protect the lungs from the harmful effects of pollutants and cigarette smoke.

Red peppers contain lycopene which reduce the risk of prostate cancer and heart disease.

Romaine lettuce contains lutein which may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, the leading causes of visual impairment in people over 50.

Scallions contain allium compounds which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Spinach contains beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes. Spinach also contains lutein and zeaxanthin which may help prevent blindness. People who eat lots of spinach have a decreased risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, the leading causes of visual impairment in people over 50.

Strawberries contain anthocyanins which may protect against the effects of aging. Strawberries also contain ellagic acid which may reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer and decrease cholesterol levels.

Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.

Swiss chard contains lutein which may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Swiss chard also contains indoles and sulphoraphane which may help decrease the risk of certain types of cancer.

Tomatoes and cooked tomato products contain lycopene which may decrease risk for prostate cancer and heart disease.

Tomato products such as ketchup, tomato juice, and spaghetti sauce are some excellent sources of lycopene.

Turnips contain indoles and sulphoraphane which may help decrease the risk of certain types of cancer.

Watercress contains indoles and sulphoraphane which may help decrease the risk of certain types of cancer.

Watermeloncontains lycopene which may decrease risk for prostate cancer and heart disease.

Winter squash contains beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes. Winter squash also contains zeaxanthin which may help to prevent macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of visual impairment in people over 50.

Another very helpful chart includes what phytochemicals can be found in common fruits and veggies...it is a more visual interpretation of the above:

FRUIT CHART

VEGGIE CHART

**********REMEMBER TO EAT A DIET RICH IN FRUITS AND VEGGIES OF DIFFERENT COLORS. STAY AWAY FROM TOO MANY BLAND BEIGE OR WHITE FOODS INCLUDING WHITE FLOUR BREADS, COOKIES, CRACKERS AND SUGARS.

EAT THE RAINBOW...AS HEARD A MILLION TIMES BEFORE....BUT I'D START OFF WITH PURPLE, GREEN, BLUE AND RED.

:)Phytochemicals are an amazing new area of nutritional research, and I will keep you posted on any breaking news and recent studies on this topic.

My favorite HIGH PHYTOCHEMICAL CONTAINING FRUITS/VEGGIES are:

GOJI BERRIES

ACAI BERRIES/DRINKS

SOY

BLACKBERRIES

KALE/SPINACH/BROCCOLI

ONIONS

RED GRAPES

SWEET POTATOES

Sources: Harvard Men's Health Watch, Dr.Weil.com, Planters.com (nutnutrition.com)

It has long been said that our ancestors were the 'hunter gatherer' types and regularly ate such foods as fresh berries and nuts. Now while they may not be famous for having a soaring life span-on average, we can at least say that levels of heart disease and heart disease-related deaths were low compared to today. Poor living standards, poor hygene and lack in availability of medicines may have hindered our ancestors....but today we are hindered by our own indulgence in processed foods rich in saturated and even (i shudder) trans fats.....

Maybe we should get back to basics and start gathering some facts about one of natures healthiest foods: nuts.

Nuts are great. A few tips: Always go organic and raw when you can. Store them in the fridge immediately after purchase. Be weary of any possibly rancid nuts that smell like 'paint'. Do not over-do the salted nuts if you are watching your sodium intake. Read labels and make sure there is no added saturated fat to your nuts--typical for many roasted and salted varieties.

So why eat nuts? Lets go nut by nut...

Cashews
The mellow, almost creamy flavor of a cashew is divine. A 1 ounce serving of cashews contains 30%copper RDA, 20% magnesium, and 10% iron-just to name a few. 160 calories, 4 grams of protein and 3 grams saturated fat. 10 grams of GOOD fats.

Almonds
Possibly the most diet-friendly of nuts-simply because of their very low saturated fat content (only 1 gram per ounce), high fiber content (3 grams per ounce) and nutritional benefits. Almonds have 35% your RDA of vitamin E and Manganese. As well as 15% riboflavin, copper and phosphorus. And 6 grams of protein.

Brazil Nuts
Eat more brazil nuts--at least one a day! One brazil nut has 100% your RDA of selenium. One ounce has 780% your RDA of selenium! What's so great about selenium? Well, Dr.Weil notes that "Selenium has antioxidant properties that help the body prevent cellular damage from free radicals, and one of its most valuable roles is as a cofactor of an important antioxidant enzyme in the body called glutathione peroxidase. Selenium also helps support a strong immune system, regulates thyroid function, and may help reduce the risk of prostate and secondary cancers. It also plays a role in the prevention of cataracts and heart disease."

Walnuts
Fun to eat if you crack your own--and good for you too! Walnuts (1 ounce) contain 50% manganese, 8% folate, and 25% copper. One very significant fact about walnuts is that they contain OMEGA-3 fatty acids--similar to those in salmon and other fish oils. So if you are vegetarian--eat more walnuts.

Pistachios
You may think of pistachios as that crunchy green crumble found on the top of middle eastern desserts, or swirled inside of pistachio ice cream...but pistachios are just as healthy as their nut friends. One ounce contains 20%RDA copper, manganese and vitamin B6. And 6 grams of protein. Plus, they are easily de-shelled without a nutcracker, and are just as high in fiber as almonds-3 grams per ounce.

Macadamias
If you've been to Hawaii, you have probably tried a macadamia nut...however it may have been covered in rich creamy chocolate or oily sweet coconut shreddings. Try them raw, organic and unsalted to taste the real thing. These creamy round nuts are delicious and macadamia oil has long been touted as a superfood in oils. One ounce of nuts contains 45% manganese and 15% thiamine. Several studies have touted macadamia oil-found in raw nuts to help lower cholesterol--despite the high fat content of these nuts.

Peanuts
OK, I have to put in the USA's favorite nut...the peanut. It may not be the most exotic of nuts, but grown right here in our own backyard of America, it needs a bit of recognition. One ounce of peanuts contains 30% manganese, 7 grams of protein and 12% your RDA of fiber. Peanuts may be 'cheap' but they are quite the nutritional powerhouses. No wonder peanut butter has long been called a dieters friend when it comes to stalling hunger and gaining nutrition.

*Also, nuts have been found to lower heart disease in both men and women---according to Harvard Medical:
"Researchers from Harvard Medical School and the Harvard School of Public Health have examined the effect of eating nuts on cardiovascular health, reports the Harvard Men's Health Watch. "Their work shows that nuts really are healthy, especially for men at risk for heart disease," says Dr. Harvey B. Simon, editor.

Studies show that healthy men, and those who have already suffered a heart attack, can reduce cardiovascular risk by eating nuts regularly, reports the Harvard Men's Health Watch. Doctors theorize that:

-nuts may help lower cholesterol, partly by replacing less healthy foods in the diet
-nuts contain mono- and polyunsaturated fats known to benefit the heart
-the omega-3 fats found in walnuts may protect against irregular heart rhythms
-nuts are rich in arginine, a substance that may improve blood vessel function
other nutrients in nuts (such as fiber and vitamin E) may also help lower cardiovascular risk.

So, don't worry about the high calorie content of nuts...and simply replace your regular "chip munching" with "nut-nibbling" Your heart and body will THANK YOU!

www.nutnutrition.com
www.drweil.com
www.health.harvard.edu

People often say to me:
"I would eat healthy food everyday...but its just too expensive to keep up!"

It has long been an accepted statement that HEALTHY foods are expensive while the CHEAPEST foods are considered unhealthy.

Fast food, cookies, packaged chips and 'junk food' has been considered to be the cheaper diet option simply because they fill you up on less. Eat a Hamburger King combo meal for $8 and you just might walk away feeling satisfied...or not.

While walk into Whole Foods and get one giant salad bar bowl for $8 and you may think...well I will be hungry later and need to eat again.

The fact is that most of these 'cheap' foods may fill you up at first, but you are consuming more saturated fat, more chemicals, more processed ingredients and more empty calories. Therefore while these foods may cost less, the health benefit per penny is ZILCH! You are paying for a quick fix to your hunger craving--not a long term healthy, life-giving, energy producing, body healing meal!

Lets compare a few basics...

An apple at Trader Joe's can cost 0.39 cents (non-organic, medium fuji)
An apple at Whole Foods has in the past cost me up to $2.50. (organic fuji apple, large)

A subscription to, say Organic Avenue (a raw food diet program in NYC), for five days of a juice and raw food fat can cost up to $350--depending if you are a member, and $60 for the refundable bottle deposits. (don't lose those bottles!)

That's $70 a day for a L.O.V.E fast...raw foods and juices.

A 5 day diet of nothing but fast food may cost you around $30-35/day....around $160 for five days..

$350 vs $160 would certainly add up over a year...
$25,550 vs $8320

That is a hefty 17k difference.....a luxury trip to Europe for four, a shopping spree at PRADA, 100 True Religion Jeans, the tasting menu at Per Se in NYC--for 75 people. A small new car.....a few classes of tuition at Harvard...you get the idea...

Now here's where my point comes in...its true that you can end up spending a lot on healthy foods... but truthfully, HEALTHY FOODS such as fresh fruits, veggies, grains and breads are QUITE CHEAP! You can purchase a GIANT bag of brown rice for a few dollars, a bag of organic oranges at Trader Joe's is also a few dollars. A fresh head of romaine lettuce , also a few bucks! A giant bag of raw cashews, around $4-$7. (A full week of high quality snacking)

What most people end up paying for when they TRY to go cold feet "totally healthy" is the cost of prepared foods.

A very small bag of snack nuts at whole foods---complete with fancy packaging could cost you $2.50. While that takeout vegan restaurant that everyone LOVES charges $7-$15 for a salad! The varying costs of healthy foods is great--it all depends on where you are shopping, how much time you are willing to commit and how much research you have done.

My question to you: Lets say you HAD to choose between the $22,000 meal plan for fresh raw healthy foods for a year versus $8,000 for fast food.

.....I HOPE you would choose the healthy diet. I hope that in the end , you understand that there should be no cost for putting healthy foods into your body. What you are paying for is quality and value and length of life. These factors should be priceless.

But not everyone wants to pay $26,000 on raw juice and foods. So you DO have to ....DO YOUR SHOPPING RESEARCH...

....but in the end, fresh health foods can be quite cheap. A vegetarian diet can be one of the cheapest diets around! Rice, veggies, breads, soy protein, milks and cheese, nuts, pasta, olive oil, all these foods are cheaper per ounce than say meat and fish.

People are BUSY. People have LIVES. Families take a lot of energy. And ordering a pizza is easy and fast. Preparing a delicious three course meal after a long day is not so easy. But sometimes, you just have to do it. And other times, you just have to pay more for prepared healthy food options.

....because there will always be a time when you have paid WAY TOO MUCH MONEY for a very poor quality meal--lots of fried foods, greasy items, high calorie desserts, and more....

...paying TOO MUCH for UNHEALTHY foods is THE WORST.

...so why not play it safe and try sticking to foods that feed your soul, your life, your body an your mind.

No matter what the end price, healthy foods will never leave you short changed on a zestful life.

...You will get what you pay for when it comes to high quality healthy foods. I can't always say the same for unhealthy options. (But that isn't to say that a $.99 cent cheeseburger isn't getting what you are paying for...)

Check out www.lunchboxbunch.com for healthy kids recipes that don't break your budget and are heavy on nutrition!

FYI....coming soon is an all new LUNCHBOX BUNCH WEBSITE! Check back here for the latest updates!

Kitchen/Cooking Tips and Techniques Index
Newest posts are at the top of the list.
Last Updated: 2/2012

* 10 Cool Recipes to Make with a Vitamix
* 5 Ways to Perk Up a Meal wit Fresh Pesto
* 6 Secret Ingredient for Scrambles
* How-to Veganize Fancy Soy Lattes
* Secret Ingredient to make any cookie recipe better
* Coconut Whippuccino
* How-to Whip Coconut Cream
* How-to Sear Tofu
* How-to Make Food Truck Eats at Home
* Vegan Jello using Agar Agar
* Using TVP in recipes - sloppy joeys
* Veggie Burger Test Kitchen
* Breakfast for Dinner!
* How-to Veganize Baking Mixes (or from scratch recipes)
* How-to Make a Basic Baking Batter
* Wellness Foods to Try! Slideshow
* How-to Make Cashew Cream Smother Sauce
* How-to Make Almond Milk at Home
* Food Photography: 15 Tips!

Perfect Vegan Pie Crust

Go Vegan Guide.

How-to: 10 Ways to Make Bubbly Better!

How-to Make Fluffy Quinoa Every Time

At-Home Juicing 101

UPDATED: Vegan Essentials Grocery Shopping List

How-to Make Cashew Cheese

How to Peel a Mushroom - and grill it too


Guide to Soaking Raw Nuts

How-to Make Berry Sauce/Topping

Smoothie FAQ's

Grilling Guide: Vegan / Green Grilling 101

10 Trendy Money-Saving Smoothie Ingredients

Vegan Grilled Cheese 101

How to Make Natural Food Colorings from Veggies n Fruit

Veg Salads 101

Green Juice 101

Meet my Juicer

Juicing for Health and Fun Series

Drink Real, Connect to your Food

Cooking Tofu Tips and Advice

Dairy-Free Pepper Burn Remedy

Ideas for a Soy-Free Vegan Lasagna

Stuffing 101

Cook Gourmet on Any Budget! Inspiration Secret.

Food Menus for Special Diets: Five Features and Tips.

Top 5 Babycakes NYC Must-Buy Secret Ingredients

Five Tips for a Better Gourmet Vegan Lasagna

Get Creative in the Kitchen: Food Invention Accidents List.

Coconut Water Ice Cubes: Smoothie Tip

Cooking for Your Non Vegan Family: 4 Recipe Ideas.

Twenty Smoothie Tips: Blend like a Pro!

How-to Chop a Pineapple: Photo Slideshow.

Vegan Baking Secret: Vital Wheat Gluten.

How to Roast a Pepper 101

Packaged/Canned/Jarred Fruit Use Ideas

People. Interviews.

*last updated 3/2011*

David Murdock (of Dole) Wellness Lessons

1/2011 Kathy's Interview with June Stoyer from The Organic View

Topics: vegan living, healthy kids, vegan myths, blogging and favorite vegan products and food.

Veggie Girl Power Interview Series #2
Gena Hamshaw
Chloe Coscarelli
Susan Voisin
Carolyn Scott
Ani Phyo
Heather Mills
Alex Jamieson
Isa Chandra

8/2010 Interview with Chef Amanda Cohen on her Iron Chef vs. Morimoto Experience!

Kathy Patalsky's Awards and Honors
Updated 3/2011

3/2011 Taste of home Magazine Publication

Sunny Asparagus Tapenade pg25

3/2011 Name Interview by NamelyMarly.com

11/2010 Jordan Winery Food Photography Contest - Grand Prize Winner

10/2010 Contributor to the Foodista Best of Food Blogs Cookbook. On sale now!

10/2010 Sunkist S'alternative Recipe/Photo Contest Finalist - Runner Up

9/2010 Healthy Food Fight! Competed in Round 2 of Aetna and Food Network's Healthy Food Fight. Location: Kennett Sq. PA Mushroom Festival.

9/2010 Photographed PCRM'S Vegan Kickstart IPhone App vegan recipes.

8/2010 Vegan Mainstream Interview: Kathy Patalsky

7/8/2010 Featured Profile Interview: Food Noise on JustinEats.com - Q&A with Kathy.

7/8/2010 Interviewed on the Healthy Voyager Radio Show. Listen here on itunes!

*if you don't have itunes - listen here*

7/2010 Featured on LA Times Daily Dish food blog. Photo credit/blog link. Combo Plate: Swedish sushi, vegan eats, Roger Ebert cooks and more.

6/2010 Winner of PeanutButterBoy.com's FRUIT/VEGGIES Peanut Butter Recipe Contest. Prize: Peanut Butter and Co $100+ prize pack! My winning recipe and prize pack pics.

6/2010 Contributor to Posit Science's ThinkFood Cookbook. Details here.

5/2010 Finalist in the DOLE California Cook-Off! Finals to be held in Los Angeles CA June 26th 2010. Judge Chef Ben Ford of Ford's Filling Station restaurant. Read all about Kathy's DOLE CALIFORNIA COOK-OFF experience!

5/2010 Winner in the Nasoya Recipe Contest - Pom Choco Tofu Pudding Parfait
Winners list

3/6/2010 Photo featured in VegNews April 2010 issue, page 22. Chipotle Vegan Burrito photo. Details and images here.

2/2010 Winner of Focal Pop photography project: Frustrated Worker.

12/03/09 Featured Recipes in the Smithsonian's Zoogoer Magazine, Published by Friends of the National Zoo.
Issue Date: Nov/Dec 2009
Article Title: Sweat Like a Pig?
"Creature Feature" article includes my Sweet'n Sassy Sweet Potato Pockets and Sweet Potato Mash Recipes
Article written by: Pamela Bucklinger

11/09/09 Perfect Butternut Squash recipe listed as Saveur.com's "Best of the Web"

11/09/09 Second Place Winner in the Whole Grains Council, "I Love my Whole Grains" Contest.

8/24/09 One of 20 Finalists chosen from a nation-wide pool of entrants in the FLAYvors of Washington Bobby Flay Grill-it Challenge. My blog post about the contest here. Finalists here, Food Network.

8/22/09 Judge in the 1st Veggie Conquest Cooking Competition NYC. Full post with photos here.

6/27/09 Top 100 Twitter Feeds: Green, Organic, Healthy

6/3/09 Contest Winner - AvecEric.com - Cinco de Mayo Food Photography Contest.
*AvecEric.com is the website of award winning chef Eric Ripert.
6/3/09 Winner! Cinco De Mayo Contest on AvecEric.com
Kathy's photo of Salsa Verde Guacamole won the Eric Ripert, AvecEric.com Cinco De Mayo Photo contest. The contest was judged by award winning food photographer Lou Manna. Eric Ripert is the multi-award winning Chef at Michelin-starred restaurant Le Bernardin in New York City. Kathy won a Olympus Stylus Tough Camera.
AvecEric.com Contest Winner Posting.
Kathy's Blog Announcement.

5/10/09 Cookoff Judges Award - "Best Disguise of Tofu" for Kathy's entry "Lemon-Aide Tofu Cups" at the Tofu Takedown Cooking Competition.
TOFU Takedown NYC Press
5/10/09 Time Out NY-Is Tofu the New Bacon?
5/10/09 New York Blips-Soy Toys and Tofu Mamas...
5/10/09 Metromix Photo Slideshow
5/10/09 Tofu Takedown-Matt timms
5/10/09 Village Voice-Tofu Takedown
5/10/09 NY Mag Grub Street, Tofu Takedown
5/10/09 Not Eating Out in NY-Judge Blog
5/10/09 NY Times-Cookoffs

3/09 Grubs Club - Runner Up in Food Photography Contest

7/12/08 - 2008 Hollywood Book Festival-Winners List
7/12/08 Hollywood Book Festival-Honorable Mention-Wiggle Jiggle Book
7/09 DIYReporter-Winners List

Entrees * Soups * Desserts and Sweets * Breakfast * Drinks, Juices and Smoothies * Breads and Loaves * Fruit Sides and Salads * Veggie Sides and Salads * Dips, Snacks and Sauces * Entertaining Appetizers * Sandwiches * Recipe Series * Kid-Friendly

Entertaining Appetizers
Updated 3/2012

* Baked Green Kale Cashew Cheese
* Easy Raw Cashew Dip
* King Oyster mushroom "Scallops" and Cucumbers
* Spicy Sweet Glazed Cocktail Balls
* Salt and Pepper Tofu Triangles
* Zucchini Guacamole
* Savory Pepperjack Cups with Pesto
* Zucchini Bruschetta
* Fruit Tapas!
* Pacific Rim Ginger Summer Rolls
* Red Hot Bruschetta

Sweet Potato "Glow" Spiral Wraps

Vegan Hummus Spiral Wraps

Vegan Cheesy Jalapeno Poppers

My Favorite Party Guac! Lemon Zesty!

Apple Cider Caramel Apples

"Game-On" Crispy Savory-Roasted Potatoes

Vegan Spinach Dip: Easy, Cheezy or Beany!

Corn Cake or Mushroom Bean Balls

Harissa Cahsew Cheese - plus step-by-step cheesemaking pics!

Basic Dry-Baked Vegan Cashew Cheese

Peppy Pepita Avo Almond Dip

Sweet Yam Garlic Bean Dip

Skinny Dip-ing!

11 B&W Recipes. World Cup ready.

5 Homemade Dips for $10, part 1
Dip Recipes, part 2

Sunny Asparagus Tapenade

Fried Golden Fuyus

"Nut" Your Average Cheese Log

Perfect Butternut Squash Dip

Radishes and "Butter" Crackers

Vegan Party Nachos

Easy Cheesy Party Tempeh

Mango Pepper Bruschetta. Tomato-free.

Sunshine Bruschetta. Citrus-Tomato.

Entrees * Soups * Desserts and Sweets * Breakfast * Drinks, Juices and Smoothies * Breads and Loafs * Fruit Sides and Salads * Veggie Sides and Salads * Dips, Snacks and Sauces * Entertaining Appetizers * Sandwiches * Recipe Series * Kid-Friendly

Kid-Friendly Healthy Recipes
Updated: 4/27/11

Angry Birds Pizza

Sweet Potato "Glow" Spiral Wraps (Snail Wraps!)

Cheesy Broccoli Pizza

Speedy Cheesy Protein Pasta

Vegan Hummus Spiral Wraps (aka, Snail Wraps!)

I Heart You Strawberry Smoothie

Apple Cider Caramel Apples

Easy Cheezy Peasy Pasta Balls (Israeli Couscous)

Tu-Nut Sandwich, "tuna-style"

Blueberries! Blueberries! A Kids Poem...

Sticky Sweet Popcorn Balls

Vegan Rice Crispy Treats

"Better" Party Mix

Frozen Grapes

Chocolate Pudding Hand Pies

Totally Tropical Smoothie

Char's Half-Frozen Lemon-Mint Water

Ginger Snap Smoothie

Trail Mix Sprinkles Cracker Snacks

Rainbow Wraps: Veggies

Rainbow Wraps: Fruit

Pop-Quiz Toast-Ups

Pluot and Plum Perfect Parfait

Tofu Scramble "Good Morning" Pasta

Micro Veggie Cream Cheese

Kitchen Sink Granola Bars

Flying Saucer Edamame with "Space Sauce" Snack

Mexican Couscous Fiesta Bowl

Wiki Wiki Volcano Couscous

Fluffy Coconut Rice with Tofu Pillows

Tiki Squares. Oatmeal Bake.

Giant Soft Sidewalk Pretzels

Happy Monkey Face Salad: Creature Creations Recipe Series