Rancho La Puerta
21. July 2010
It’s been a year since I retired from full-time work as a TV newscaster. For 28 years I also covered health and fitness news… the best “beat” in the biz! Fortunately, I still get to promote good health and well being as a health champion here at PPH… and as a motivational speaker. So I was thrilled to be invited recently to speak at Rancho La Puerta. But I never dreamed accepting their invitation meant I’d also be staying at the world famous health spa!
My trip to the “Ranch” was a pleasant 40-minute drive from San Diego across the border into Tecate, Mexico. The quaint Mexican border town is home to the world’s first destination resort and spa. The sense of peace and tranquility filled me as I drove through the gate at Rancho La Puerta. In the coming days, I was to experience first-hand why the “Door of the Ranch” is the“favorite spa in north America,” according to SpaFinder.com.
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Beach Books
16. July 2010
The low clouds are gone and the heat is on. It’s summer in San Diego! Time to hit the beach for a little relaxation and fun in the sun. So pack your sunscreen, shades, bocce ball and beach chair. And whatever you do, don’t forget a beach BOOK! Nothing too heavy, just a pleasant read to help you relax and escape into a world of romance, adventure, inspiration or intrigue.
Now, if you’re like me, it’s hard to relax when you don’t know where to start. So many books, so little time! It can be overwhelming. So this summer I’m going to keep it simple. One classic novel. One inspirational read, and at least two… maybe three, of my favorite political thrillers by Daniel Silva.
Bone Health
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09. July 2010
Have you thought about your bones lately? They can be easy to forget. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But “them bones” are pretty important if you want to remain upright into your golden years.
Did you know by the time you turn 30 your body starts losing more bone mass than it can create? The news gets even worse for women over 50. Menopause can trigger the first step in bone loss called osteopenia, followed by osteoporosis, the more serious form of bone loss known to cause fractures and debilitation.
It’s estimated half the people in the U.S. over the age of 50 have osteopenia. Once you’ve been diagnosed, you may not be able to completely stop bone loss… but here’s the good news. Whatever your age, you can SLOW bone loss and start building better bones right now!
No magic bullets. No gimmicks. Just some simple, common sense tips that really work.
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Enjoy that Cup of Joe!
23. June 2010
If you love coffee, I’ve got great news! Sit back, relax, enjoy a cup of your favorite brew and read on!
Turns out, the latest coffee buzz doesn’t come from caffeine. It comes from new research showing a cup (or more) a day may actually keep the doctor away! It’s true! That daily Venti Breakfast Blend may do more than wake you up. It may just extend your life.
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Cinema Under the Stars
19. June 2010
Got any plans this weekend? How about a movie? Better yet, how ‘bout a movie UNDER THE STARS? Surprise someone you care about and head to Mission Hills and “Cinema Under the Stars,” San Diego’s unique open-air movie theater. Tom and I have been enjoying this unique cinema experience for years. We want you to know about one of San Diego’s best-kept entertainment secrets.
The weather’s getting warmer, but even if it’s cool, you won’t care. The intimate outdoor venue tucked away in Mission Hills has a fantastic heating system and cozy throws to keep you warm. But watch out, you may just drift off during the opening cartoon in your super-comfy zero-gravity recliner.
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Dazzle ‘em With This Dip!
15. June 2010
How’d you like to be the life of your next party? (And I don’t mean dancing on the table with a lampshade on your head!)
Seriously, next time you’re asked to bring an appetizer to a pool party, barbecue or special event, try this super-simple snack that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
I got it from my friend, Susan who got it from her friend, Peggy. From where it came before that, I have no idea. All I know is that this delicious dip is quick, easy, über healthy and will be the first to disappear from any buffet table.
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Men's Health
02. June 2010
I have a terrific husband. He works full-time, volunteers and is a huge help at home. Tom takes care of cars that need service, commodes that need plunging and cat-boxes that need cleaning. He’s neat, thoughtful and washes the dishes. I’m a lucky woman.
But guess who keeps food in the fridge… replenishes the health-care products and makes all the doctor appointments? Without ever really discussing it, Tom has abdicated anything to do with our family’s health to me! Left to his own devices, Tom would eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner, go without aspirin and floss and wait years to schedule his annual physical. Tom may be a take-charge guy, but when it comes to our health, he’d rather I’m in charge.
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Super Snacks
17. May 2010
If it’s mid-afternoon and you’re already out of gas, you may be tempted to fill up on M&M’s and coffee (Two of my former favorite food groups!). But if you’re like me, the crash a couple of hours later is even worse (only now my head hurts, too!) Next time you bottom out grab something that will get you back up and running for the rest of the day. A handful of almonds, a couple of fig bars or a banana buys me a little time. But if you really need to power through a project, go for a high performance snack.
Nutritionist and community outreach specialist for “Jimbos Naturally,” Patti Milligan, recently turned me on to her secret snack. It’s delicious. It’s different. And it works! I convinced Patti to let me share it with you!
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Claire's on Cedros
10. May 2010
Have you been to “Claire’s on Cedros” yet? You gotta check out this charming café in Solana Beach. My friend, Dana, has been raving about the popular eatery since it opened less than a year ago. Now I know why! Lunch at Claire’s is an adventure in good eating and going “green!”
The lunch crowd had not yet thinned as Dana and I entered the restaurant… still bustling with activity. Hostess Eva welcomed us with a bright smile and ushered us through the dining area decorated with bits of whimsy… onto the patio so well designed and landscaped, we soon forgot busy North Cedros was only feet away!
The food was clean and delicious (even the coffee is organic!). Chef Claire uses nothing but the best natural ingredients. And she doesn’t have to go far. The restaurant’s landscape is also a one-of-a-kind edible garden! It’s not only beautiful… the eco-“greenscape” supplies herbs, fruits and vegetables for the restaurant’s kitchen.
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Mental Health Support
03. May 2010
May is Mental Health Awareness Month… a time to focus on those who suffer from any of a variety of mental illnesses and disorders. That’s great! But I’d also like to give a shout out to all of you who support loved ones battling mental illness. I know it can be a challenge.
My husband, Tom, is a chronically happy man. He wakes up happy every morning, stays happy all day long, and falls asleep with a smile on his face. As someone who fights the “blues,” I often find Tom’s non-stop good cheer annoying. But years ago, when the dark cloud of clinical depression descended on me, I was grateful for his strength and positive outlook.
Initially, Tom tried to cheer me up. But as I fell deeper into the black hole of depression, he realized we were dealing with something a walk on the beach or funny movie couldn’t fix. As I became paralyzed with panic and despair, my concerned husband took action.Get Some Sleep
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Erasing the Stigma of Mental Illness
02. May 2010
My mother committed suicide. She died 30 years ago next month at the age of 53 from untreated, end-stage depression. I was 26 and had reaped the benefits of a loving, devoted mother. All I could do was watch helplessly as she fought the overwhelming symptoms of anxiety and despair.
Mom’s death was a tragic loss, but I found comfort knowing she was finally at peace, free from the bondage of a devastating illness over which she had no control. What made it unbearable was the reaction to her death.
It was never discussed. My dad didn’t talk about it. My brother, sister and I went through the motions of her funeral and burial, but never spoke of it. Friends and neighbors avoided it. Our pastor couldn’t even look us in the eye because of it.
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Destination: Coronado!
A "Slice" of Orange Ave.
08. April 2010
Coronado is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and why not? The view from the bay bridge alone is breathtaking. Everyone loves a trip to the fun-filled Ferry Landing, the Hotel Del Coronado and one of the most beautiful beaches on earth! But the “Crown” city offers so much more! Dig a little deeper and you’ll find there’s something fun to do and see in every corner of this small beach community. Tom and I recently enjoyed an incredible day in Coronado, and never left the 11 hundred block of Orange Ave.
Orange, of course, is the main drag through the delightful village of Coronado, home to both the historic Hotel Del and popular pub, “Danny’s,” (known for its famous “Slam Burger!”)
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Something Fishy, Is Good For You!
06. April 2010
A healthy diet almost always includes fish. No wonder! Besides containing protein and other nutrients such as Vitamin D and selenium, fish contain omega-3 fatty acids… a specific type of fat that may reduce the risk of developing heart disease and other medical problems.
I like fish, but my craving for crustaceans and hankering for halibut came later in life. Growing up in Iowa, “fish” meant tuna salad sandwiches and Mrs. Paul’s frozen fish sticks. Then I moved to southern California. After my first bite of truly fresh, savory salmon, I was hooked! From swordfish to mahi-mahi… these days, fish is my friend. But when it comes to preparing a proper prawn I still come up short. So I enlisted the help of two of my favorite fish-fixers, my sister, Denise and my friend, Carol!
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Get Back in the Game with P.T.
04. April 2010
They say foot surgery is the worst. I don’t know whether that’s true, but I can tell you it’s no picnic. After two years of treating a persistent, painful running injury with every non-invasive procedure known to man, I finally had to accept the fact that surgery was the next step.
I found a wonderful foot surgeon… underwent a successful procedure last summer and began the months-long recovery process. I won’t sugar-coat it. It’s been tough. And I’ve had several major setbacks along the way. (The problem with feet is you eventually have to put weight on them!)
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Get Some Sleep
01. April 2010
Get Some Sleep!
Last night I slept nine hours. There, I said it. And tonight, if I can I’ll sleep nine more! I used to apologize for getting so many zzzz’s. No more. Turns out that’s how much sleep I really need, and when I try to get by on less, I feel lousy, am less productive and cranky!
Turns out, there’s no reason to feel guilty about getting a good night’s sleep. In fact, medical research has proven a lack of sleep can be deadly! When people get less than 6 or 7 hours of sleep each night their risk for developing a variety of diseases increases. Studies prove it. If laboratory rats are regularly deprived of sleep, they live only 5 weeks of their 2 to 3 year life expectancy.
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My Playlist
08. March 2010
There’s nothing better than a good workout… the endorphin rush, that healthy glow. Just not yesterday.
Yesterday, I literally dragged myself through my stretching routine, upper body weight workout and a 45-minute recumbent bike ride. I thought it would never end. You see, I forgot my iPod. It’s a crutch, I know, but without my favorite workout tunes, I can barely break a sweat.
Turns out, I’m not alone. There’s actually scientific proof that music enhances workout performance!
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The Incredible Potato
04. March 2010
Pity the poor potato! During the “low-carb” craze, the lowly spud got some pretty bad press. But “las papas” are making a comeback and I, for one, am thrilled!
Unfortunately, not everyone’s on board. After ordering a baked potato with my grilled salmon at a local eatery the other night, my girlfriend told the waiter she wanted double veggies on the side. Smugly, she announced, “I don’t do carbs.”
What?! This is the vegetable that conquered the world, the peasant’s staff of life, the gourmet’s delight. One writer called it “nutritious, delicious, lauded and maligned – the paradoxical potato… the amazing spud.”
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Social Seniors
01. March 2010
Friday night’s the time to party! And that’s certainly the case at North Coast Calvary Church (NCCC) in Carlsbad… especially for the 50-plus crowd! As I walked into the all–purpose facility at NCCC recently, there was such a din of music and laughter, I thought I was in the wrong place. Church people - certainly those over fifty - couldn’t be having that much fun. I couldn’t have been more wrong!
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Exercise for Your Heart….and More!
05. February 2010
Back in the ‘60’s, my Dad was a huge fan of Dr. Kenneth Cooper and his theories about aerobic exercise. (Because of Dr. Cooper, Dad may actually be the first guy ever to jog in the state of Iowa!) The now-famous medical doctor had the then wacky notion that exercise was good for your heart. (cooperaerobics.com) His research panned out and Dr. Cooper’s theories, of course, became universal truths.
Since then, more studies have proven exercise can stave off heart disease, lower blood pressure and stress levels and help maintain a healthy weight. But what’s exciting to me are the other benefits of exercise… the hidden benefits!
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One Step at a Time
03. February 2010
February is Heart Health month – a great time to get going! Only one month into the New Year and not too late to make good on that resolution to move more… one step at a time! It’s easy. Nothing fancy. No equipment needed. Just a good pair of walking or running shoes. Here’s how you make it fun. Get out there a couple of days a week on your own, then book one “destination” walk or run every weekend. Alone or with a friend… in San Diego, your options are endless.
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Kids and Heart Health
02. February 2010
Heart disease isn’t just for adults anymore. Childhood obesity is an increasing threat to the health of our young people. An American Heart Association study concludes overweight kids are “coronary time bombs!” In fact, health experts predict overweight children and teens are on track to develop heart disease between the ages of 35 and 50!
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Bachelor's Chili
01. February 2009
If you’re planning a Super Bowl party or just want some comfort food to keep you warm on these crisp winter nights, how ‘bout a steaming pot of chili? I know many of you take pride in your elaborate, even “secret” recipes. That’s fine. But if you’re like me and just want something quick and easy that tastes good, here’s my not-so-secret recipe for “Bachelor’s Chili.”
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Carol’s Tips for a healthy, HAPPY New Year!
01. January 2010
You’ve recycled your Christmas tree. The Menorah’s packed away. And your extended family is back where they came from. Congratulations. You’ve survived another holiday season!
But for many of us, the pressure of the holidays continues right into the New Year with a list of resolutions as long as your holiday shopping list. Well, this year, let’s keep it simple, with a few lifestyle changes guaranteed to set you up for success.
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Don't Go It Alone
30. December 2009
Want to experience better health and well-being in the new year? Along with exercise and good food… call a friend! Seriously, many well-researched studies have found the more friends we have the better our physical and emotional health.
I know it’s true because I’m a “recovering loner!” Take care of yourself. Be independent. Don’t trust anyone. Those were the messages I got as a young woman. I didn’t have time for emotional attachments. I had plans.
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The Best Kept Secret
25. December 2009
Winter doldrums got you down? Granted, it’s hard to complain living in southern California…but it is January and the short days and chilly temperatures can bring on the blues.
I have a suggestion. It may not technically be beach weather….but I guarantee a trip to La Jolla Cove will lift your spirits. My friend Pam and I just celebrated her birthday with lunch and a stroll along the Cove. Listen, winter at the beach may just be the best-kept secret around!
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Easy and delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup
20. December 2009
I don't like to cook... but I love to eat! If you're like me....too busy and "culinarily impaired,” let's help one another! I'll share my super-easy recipes with you if you'll return the favor! I'm looking for no-brainer dishes with very few steps, but lots of nutrition and taste. They also need to pass the "husband test." I'll try them out on Tom and report back. (And please include an occasional chocolaty dessert. I believe chocolate is a major food group! Right now I'm into soups, so here's an incredibly easy, recipe from my dear friend and workout partner, Rene.
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Contact Carol by emailing her at Carol@pph.org.