DECK THE HALLS WITH BEADS & HOLLY – in NEW ORLEANS!

By Marilyn Anderson & Dennis Lanning

New Orleans for the Christmas holidays! Why – you ask? Isn’t it still under water? Isn’t everything closed? Isn’t it empty? The answer is no, no and NO. Instead, think go, go, and GO!

We went there recently – and WOW – it was the most fun we’ve had in an alligator’s age! And when we hit Bourbon Street on Saturday night – it almost seemed like Mardi Gras – I can just imagine what the real Mardi Gras is like.

We were amazed at the crowds and excitement – and whole-heartedly joined in with wild abandon. At 9 PM a parade started down Bourbon Street with marching bands, clowns on stilts, folks in costumes and lots of smiling faces. Boosted by the NAR (National Association of Realtors) conventioneers in tow, thousands of revelers crowded through the French Quarter, dancing along with the parade and tossing beads this way and that – as people on the balconies above the street tossed even more beads downward.

Music blared from almost every doorway, attracting customers with shouts of “No Cover – No Minimum” as the festivities continued late into the night. We made sure to sample the music and drinks at a variety of spots. If you like Blues, Rock, or Soul—Bourbon Street is the place to be!

Food in New Orleans is fantastic. We love the Louisiana diet: eat, eat and eat! There are lots of fried foods, of course—it’s a staple of southern cooking. But there is also plenty of fresh fish, vegetables and Cajun specialties that we find irresistible. Our resolution for the New Year – if you go to New Orleans, don’t start your diet until AFTER January 1st .

So here’s the holiday scoop for NOLA, as it now touts itself, standing for, obviously, New Orleans, LA. Most hotels are open. Most Bed & Breakfasts are open. Most restaurants are open. Clubs are open. Stores and attractions are open. The people are friendlier than ever. You’ll love them… and they’ll love you for coming and helping with the tourist revival of New Orleans.

One note of a serious nature to visitors: Despite the joy of revitalization, the hurricane-damaged areas still cover a vast area. There is some effort being made at renewal, but overall the situation is sad. It is highly recommended that you tour these areas for an awakening and remembrance, and to pay your respects to the lost souls who have moved on to another place. The tourist trade will help New Orleans and the people in it, so tell everyone you know to visit soon and often!

New Orleans is a wonderfully exciting and vibrant city, where everyone can let their hair down and lift their spirits up. So many things to do, places to go, and meals to eat!

So, don’t miss any of it – get your Santa to take you here for Christmas… and stay for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Or make any day New Year’s Eve with a trip to this playfully decadent, spiritual, and alive city!

Here are some of the great things you can enjoy in New Orleans:

The Grand Victorian Bed and Breakfast

Located on St. Charles Street in the Garden district, a fun trolley ride slightly west of downtown, The Grand Victorian was designed and built in 1893 by New Orleans architect Thomas Sully. Several years ago it was lovingly restored by Bonnie Rabe, our gracious innkeeper.

This Victorian jewel features beautifully restored interior details, period furniture and an indefinable “warm and fuzzy” feeling, making your stay that much nicer. Amenities include free wi-fi for laptoppers, a house computer for checking your email if you left your laptop home, and an ample continental breakfast.

Our stay in the Nottoway Suite was reminiscent of apartment living in another era. Except we had such hi-tech niceties as a completely separate a/c system and a huge hot tub in the bathroom, features not normally found in your typical Victorian B & B. We were made to feel as comfortable as being at home. There are 8 rooms and suites, all named after the grand plantations that lined the Mississippi River, some of which still operate as tourist locations.

We can wholeheartedly recommend The Grand Victorian to anyone seeking lovely, comfortable, and reasonably priced accommodations. It would be a cozy and intimate setting for your Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day.

However, if B & B-ing isn’t for you, the city has thousands of rooms available at hotels in the French Quarter and downtown.

The Grand Victorian Bed and Breakfast

2727 St. Charles Ave.

New Orleans, LA 70130

800-977-0008

www.gvbb.com
The Court of Two Sisters

Justifiably renowned for their daily Jazz Brunch Buffet, this beautiful and friendly restaurant offers a sumptuous spread containing almost every edible concoction man can prepare. In the morning, the buffet features made-to-order omelets, Eggs Benedict, sausage and bacon, grits and grillades, and shrimp and veggie pastas with a creamy Alfredo sauce. The afternoon’s sampling includes Creole jambalaya, turtle soup, oysters Bienville, Duck a l’Orange, and Shrimp Etouffee. There’s also a cornucopia of delectable cold salads and appetizers.

The desserts were in equal abundance: pastries, fruit, cookies, ice cream, you name it. We had to force ourselves to “suffer” through the Oreo Cookie cake and several brownies. And we couldn’t leave without a taste of their unique “King Cake,” a colorfully iced coffee-cake ring symbolizing the Mardi Gras tradition.

But what makes this world-famous restaurant truly special are the romantic outdoor courtyard, attentive service, and musical trio that plays softly elegant New Orleans jazz while you dine. We think you’ll agree… it’s a glorious place for a holiday feast!

The Court of Two Sisters

613 Royal Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

(504) 522-7261

www.courtoftwosisters.com

Acme Oyster House

We have never passed by this historic oyster bar when there wasn’t a line outside. No matter, it moves fast and with other people chatting all around you, you’re seated in what seems like a flash. Don’t like lines? Walk right in and sit at the bar.

We like the small bar section in front of the “shuckers” – a friendly bunch of fun-loving guys who shuck and “plate” the oysters you are about to eat – and provide entertainment at the same time with a constant rap of amusing banter.

Mostly raw or fried favorites populate the Acme menu, but all is first rate. After a dozen raw, we opted for a dozen char-broiled. What a treat this dish is! Somehow they all “slide” down easily and taste delectable. Dennis likes the raw ones and washes them down with Abita Amber, a Louisiana specialty beer – but I prefer them cooked. Hmmm – this Christmas, instead of chestnuts roasting on an open fire… how about oysters!

Joey K’s

Heading up Magazine Street in the Garden District one night, we passed what looked like your typical neighborhood tavern. Except, this place was packed. Every table was full of happy faces downing beer from chilled, thick glass mugs and eating voraciously. With a recommendation from a friend, we figured how we could go wrong?

The menu is standard diner fare but sprinkled with some specialties like Trout Tchoupitoulas. There are Daily Blackboard specials like brisket, lamb shank, white beans with pork chops, or jambalaya. We sampled the pork loin special with green vegetables and the pan-fried trout topped with grilled veggies and shrimp.

Don’t expect gourmet fare here, but for a satisfying meal in a very pleasant atmosphere, Joey K’s is AOK!

Joey K’s Restaurant

3001 Magazine Street

New Orleans

(504) 891-0997

Table One

While just across the street from Joey K’s, this restaurant is miles away in style, ambiance, and menu. Part of a family of locally owned restaurants, Table One is an ambitious attempt at gourmet greatness on the local level. It’s a beautifully designed space with both upstairs and downstairs dining and a long attractive bar area on the first floor.

The menu is limited, but Chef Gerard Maras has filled it with a variety of fresh tastes for almost anyone. Unfortunately, the night we were there, they were out of several dishes, not specials, but standard menu items, which surprised us.

Almost filled up from non-stop eating for the past several days, we decided to share a few dishes between us. First, we tried the Fresh Sea Scallops, with frisee, Belgian endive and Italian parsley, dressed with lemon verbena caper sauce. We had asked what “fried New England Style” meant, and our server assured us it meant they were sautéed in a pan, not deep fried. Unfortunately, they came deep fried and were rather tasteless.

The salad of Bibb lettuce with roasted beets, fresh “fine herbs” and naval oranges, dressed with orange blossom vinaigrette was well presented and tasty, but not overly special.

Our entrée of duck with plum sauce and boiled apples was also well presented, with a nice-sized portion. Our first few pieces of duck were excellent, tender, and perfectly done. But the remaining slices were tough and neither juicy nor tasty. We tried to imagine how some of the duck was so succulent and the rest… NOT. Maybe it was on the run… hoping to escape being someone’s Christmas dinner-to-come.

The choice of wines by the glass were limited but well chosen. Although it didn’t end up being our favorite place, this restaurant deserves another try.

Table One

2800 Magazine Street (Cross Street: Washington Avenue)

New Orleans, LA 70115View Map

(504) 872-9035

Pizza on Magazine Street: Rocky’s and Reginelli’s

There are several Italian eateries as you roam along Magazine Street, and we visited two of them.

Rocky’s interior is mostly dark wood, with private booths and a variety of things hanging on the walls. There is an open kitchen and you can watch them create your own pizza.

They have an extensive selection of “gourmet” pizzas and we ordered a Cajun Pizza with loads of seafood sitting on top. Other originals include the Muffaletta pizza and the wild Tchoupitoulas with pepperoni, Italian sausage, red peppers and jalapenos. The menu also includes focaccia sandwiches, salads and pastas.

We thoroughly enjoyed the comfort, quality and care that the young college-type pizza pros served us. We left with smiles and full stomachs, and highly recommend this local stop.

While Rocky’s is more of your old-fashioned pizza parlor, just up the street is a new, more stylish retro-deco eatery called Reginelli’s Pizzeria.

With bright pastel colors and oddly shaped tables, this is the newer, hipper version of Pizza “Parlorology.” Cool and comfortable, we ordered salads, pizzas and drinks and were more than pleasantly surprised with our meal. Our great surprise came when Dennis asked for a glass of Abita amber and got a full pitcher for $2!

Neighborhoods need little places like this, where the tables are full of young people enjoying life and getting the best in foods. As satisfying as our meal was, our server made it even better.

Waitress Stephanie was as fresh as a daisy and sweet as the tiramisu. She loved helping us and accompanied every trip to our booth with a smile and desire to be helpful. Recently graduated from Indiana University, she had planned to move to Los Angeles, but came to NOLA instead by accident. I think her mistake was fortuitous. She loves New Orleans and makes her customers feel extra welcome.

Rocky’s Gourmet Pizza	Reginelli’s Pizzeria
3222 Magazine Street	741 State Street at Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70115	New Orleans, LA 70118
504.891.5152	504.899.1414

Café du Monde

High on your list of not-to-miss NOLA landmarks should be this historic spot in the French Quarter. Open 24/7 and bustling every one of those hours, this is the ultimate fried dough (called Beignets here, not donuts) and java house in the city. Since 1862, Café du Monde has been pleasing locals and tourists alike with its Beignets (fried, rectangle-shaped doughnuts covered in powdered sugar) and cafe au laits. Also available are fresh-squeezed orange juice, regular and chocolate milk, hot chocolate and soft drinks. Sit on the patio or indoors and watch the world go by. You’ll love the laid back atmosphere and white-jacketed servers working their way around the crowded tables – no matter how late at night or early in the morning it is. A great stop for some more sweets and coffee after all that New Year’s Eve partying!

Cafe du Monde

800 Decatur Street at St. Ann Street

New Orleans, LA 70116-3306

(504) 581-2914

The Funky Pirate

Blues, blues and BLUES! We love the blues – and try to find the best clubs in every city we visit. We actually discovered The Funky Pirate on a pre-Katrina trip several years ago. So we were absolutely thrilled to find it was still here – along with their main blues-belting guy – Big Al Carson.

From the outside, this club doesn’t look much different than all the other dark, smoky, music joints on Bourbon Street. It’s when you step inside and capture the image of Big Al sitting ruefully on a huge chair, filling every inch of the room with a haunting blues sound, that you know you have found heaven.

He is the essence of the blues musician, digging deep into his 550 pounds of soul, and mesmerizing everyone within hearing range. You can dance or just listen – but don’t miss this place when you come to New Orleans.

Funky Pirate

727 Bourbon Street

New Orleans, LA 70116View Map

(504) 523-1960

Editorial Description

Pat O’Brien’s

This bar experience is all about fun. Any one of the taverns in the FrenchQuarter can pour a pint, but Pat O’Brien’s pours more, much more. We spent our time at the Piano Bar, directly across from the people-packed Main Bar, where talented singers belt out tunes like home runs in a fun and pleasing way. It’s a party as everyone participates in the mayhem, and you forget about going anywhere else. It’s no wonder that the line for this venue often goes around the block, but the wait is worth it. A highlight of the Patio is the flaming fountain, a unique water fountain with fire emerging from its center. Don’t forget to take a picture; your sweetie will love the romantic gesture. Or, like we did, ask a waiter to snap a photo of the two of you enjoying a holiday hug.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar

718 St. Peter Street

New Orleans, LA 70116
504.525.4823

www.patobriens.com

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

We didn’t get to Snug Harbor, but friends of ours went there to seeCharmaine Neville, cousin of Aaron Neville, perform. She’s among the many New Orleans talents who regularly grace the stage, including Ellis Marsalis, Astral Project, and Jesse McBride.

It has a reputation as the city’s most prestigious jazz club, and includes three sectons: a cozy restaurant with candlelit tables; a bar area; and a performance club with seating on two levels. Apparently, a lot of young jazz musicians frequent the place – and bring their instruments, ready to jump up on the stage at a moment’s notice. Next time we visit, we’ll be sure to check it out. How about making a date to meet us there!

Snug Harbor

626 Frenchmen StreetNew Orleans, LA 70116

504.949.0696

info@snugjazz.com

Celebration Tours

This company offers a variety of city tours in a 12-passenger van. We took the Katrina Recovery Tour, and learned a lot from our driver and guide, Ozzie Laporte. He knows and loves his city, and you can sense the concern in his voice as the tour winds its way through the French Quarter and away from the now-lively downtown, to the outer sections known to millions of TV viewers as the Lower 9th Ward and 17th Street Canal.

Here, the devastation of 16 months ago is a daily reminder of the worst natural disaster to ever hit the United States. We were stunned by the scope of damage and destruction levied on these areas. Approximately 200,000 evacuees of the storm have not returned to the city; and seeing these areas, you will understand why. From here, we were taken back to see the other active sections of the city. Ozzie’s colorful narrative told all about the history of each site we passed, and helped us understand and enjoy the background and beauty of New Orleans.

We recommend this tour to see the progress New Orleans has made in just one year. It’s a tale of two cities. You see the devastated areas, then go to the uptown area and the Garden District, ultimately ending with a positive look at one of the most unique cities in the world – New Orleans!

Celebration Tours

1229 St. Thomas Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

Toll-Free: (888) 587-7115

Phone: (504) 587-7115

www.celebrationtoursllc.com

Other attractions in or near NOLA:

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Audubon Zoo

Beuregard-Keys House

Blain Kern’s Mardi Gras World

Cajun Pride Tours

Destrehan Plantation

Hermann-Grima House

House of Blues

Laura: A Creole Plantation

Louisiana Children’s Museum

Louisiana State Museum-New Orleans

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Save Our Cemeteries

Van Benthuysen-Elms Mansion

…. And many, many more!

Enjoy a Spa Treatment from Your Own Kitchen!

The Beauty Agenda

Enjoy a Spa Treatment from Your Own Kitchen!

that time of year when winter weather leads to dry skin and dry hair. Don’t have time or money for the spa treatment? Not to fear. You can treat yourself to the spa treatment right in your own home. Your kitchen has just what you need!

Banana Facial

This one is good for wrinkles as well as providing a mild sloughing effect. It acts as a peel and a scrub. Mash an overripe banana and mix with a little salt. Smear on your face and neck. Let it dry. Take a washcloth and scrub it off. Makes an excellent exfoliater, and a mild peel that will polish the surface of your skin. The salt acts as a mild scrub. It’s not too harsh on the skin because the salt dissolves, as you wash off the masque.

Avocado Masque

Works as an excellent skin moisturizer! Just mash a ripe avocado and slather on your face and neck. Leave on for 20 minutes and then wash off with warm water.

Papaya Facial Peel

Don’t pay hundreds of dollars to your dermatologist for a chemical peel! Papaya works just as well at a fraction of the cost.

The papaya contains an enzyme that dissolves dead skin cells and facial oils.

First remove the seeds from the papaya. Then mash a little. About one tablespoon should do it! Smooth it on your skin for about 20 minutes and then rinse off. You will feel a mild tingling sensation. Follow up with a mild moisturizer.

Olive Oil Hair Treatment

This helps repair split ends, gets rid of dandruff, and makes your hair shiny, silky, and lustrous. Massage a few tablespoons of olive oil into scalp and hair. Cover hair with a plastic cap and leave on for 30 minutes or more. Then shampoo as usual.

Mayonnaise Hair Moisturizer

Makes an excellent Hair moisturizer and scalp cleanse.

Take about 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and slather on hair, wrap hair in plastic and cover with a towel for 1 hour. After one hour rinse off with warm water and wash hair with a good conditioning shampoo.

The following facial sauna will not only moisturize and hydrate the skin, but will also dissolve away stress.

Bowl of boiling water

Sage

Green tea bags

Dry towel

Put on some relaxing music. Add tea bags and dried sage to the bowl of boiling water. Make a tent with your towel and head over the mixture. Enjoy a few minutes of the best moisturizer and pore cleanser money didn’t buy!

Written by Lisa Trimarchi

Beautician or the Beast – When Friendly Stylists Become Dangerous Foes

The Beauty Agenda

Beautician or the Beast – When Friendly Stylists Become Dangerous Foes

A Jerry Seinfeld episode sums this article up perfectly. Seinfeld had a barber who never cut his hair to his satisfaction. One day, while in his barber’s chair, he saw a new barber who was much better—hisbarber’s nephew. Jerry was always too scared to complain about his hair. So one day, after yet another bad haircut, he snuck off to get his hair done by the new guy—he crossed enemy lines. What happened next? His main barber found out and went ballistic. Sometimes the fear to confront a less than adequate stylist is not always unfounded.

I have been going to my beautician for years and have learned to trust her. I sit in the swivel chair while she applies all sorts of chemicals to my hair. She has dyed my hair and advised me against over processing. Over the years, I have learned that my beautician knows best… or does she?

I was casually having coffee with a dear friend of mine, and noticed her hairstyle. I complimented her and she half-heartedly thanked me. I asked her what was wrong, and she proceeded to complain about her, our beautician. You see, we both go to the same salon and have been for over a decade.

Charlotte cut my hair too short. I was just getting used to the look and she chopped it off before I ever knew what hit me. I didn’t even ask her to cut it. She just started cutting and before I knew it, my hair was 2 inches shorter.

Last week another female friend of mine was complaining about exactly the same thing. Even I had moments when I left the salon disappointed that my own hairdo had been compromised by those unwelcome scissors. If so many clients are unhappy with their stylists, then why doesn’t anybody do something about it, I wondered. I remember leaving an old beautician for the exact same reason. I didn’t want to go through another one without speaking up first.

I made a decision that the next time I sat in Charlotte’s chair, I would speak my mind, diplomatically of course. Charlotte did her normal routine with my hair, and after I emerged from under the dryer, my moment had come. I was sitting in the chair and Charlotte reached for the scissors. My heart was pounding. It was now or never.

Charlotte, do you think we really need to trim this time?

Charlotte looked at me and agreed not to cut this time. I felt power. I overcame! O. K., now I had the confidence to go all the way.

Charlotte, would you mind not cutting my hair for a while unless I ask you to? It’s just that I am trying to grow my hair long and you keep cutting off the new growth.

Charlotte got defensive and told me in no uncertain terms that I needed to trim my hair and that she wasn’t trying to sabotage my look. My hair just needed to be cut. I pleaded with her, re-emphasizing that it was my hair and if I didn’t want a trim, it should be my choice; but according to her, I had no say in the matter—she was the gatekeeper for my coif! She raised her voice, and I was humiliated by the stares of the other customers in the salon. Was I overreacting? Should I just let her cut at her whim? Do I have the right to ask her not to trim? After all, she took care of my hair for so many years. Was I out of line? Of course not! It is my hair, not hers. I was paying her for a service. By the time I escaped the salon, I had practically kissed Charlotte’s butt, stroked her ego, before she calmed down and finally agreed to wait until I asked her for a trim. I left her chair that day nervous and totally shocked that she reacted with such vehemence.

So what are women supposed to do when they are unhappy with their beauticians? There are really only three options:

1. Look for a new salon.

2. Express your grievances and hope for the best.

3. Learn to do your own hair.

Look for a New Salon

The easiest way to find a hair salon suited to your needs is to ask people with hair styles similar to what you want for a referral to their hair salon. These may be people you know or complete strangers that you see while you are out shopping. Do not be shy. If you see a cute style that you have been unsuccessfully trying to achieve, ask the person which hair salon they go to. You may never get a chance to do so again.

—Michael Barrow, Stylist—

I was at the Los Angeles courthouse one day and the clerk who helped me had the longest, healthiest hair I’d ever seen. I complimented her, and she told me she goes to the Long Hair Specialists in Pasadena. I called The Long Hair Specialists and they seemed like the perfect salon for me. They specialized in haircuts that compliment your hair while it’s growing out of a cut. Therefore, they are not a scissor-happy salon and rarely cut your hair at all. They focus on hair care and maintenance.

Express your grievances and hope for the best.

You should never leave the chair disappointed, but when it happens, here are a few tips to help you. Tell your stylist that the haircut or color isn’t what you had envisioned. If it’s a bad dye job, it can usually be fixed. It may not end up being what you wanted ultimately, but it most likely will at least be tolerable after she fixes it. If your haircut isn’t what you asked for, try to find a picture next time to show your stylist what you had in mind. After all, they are not mind readers. Many times, we envision one thing but don’t properly intimate that to our beautician. Many times we are too vague and leave too much to their imaginations. Just complaining about a bad hairdo isn’t enough. Keep in mind that cosmetology is an art, and you are dealing with an artist’s temperament. To express dislike is the equivalent of rejecting a painter’s painting.

Do it Yourself

Many people dye their own hair. There are so many consumer products like Loreal and Clairol. And I know a lot of women who have successfully dyed their own hair. If you’re trying to relax a curl, there are several do-it-yourself relaxers on the market like Dark and Lovely and Naturalizer Kit in a Jar. Some relaxers are even premixed and require very little effort. The same goes for perming (adding curl) like Wella Perm and J. Redding. As a precaution, always do the pretest to make sure there isn’t a skin reaction to the products.

Written by Kaylene Peoples

That Time of Year

That Time of Year

The Christmas season is upon us, and while it is often disparaged as being too commercialized, I believe that is just a way for us to be less and less introspective about how even now in this day of commercialism we still find ways to bond with one another. We find ways to show we care throughout the year. We do. It’s simply more popular to put ourselves down and say we are a cold, unfeeling people who care only for ourselves. That simply is not true.

Underneath all our clothes lie our individual hearts. We feel the pressure of having to buy gifts for everyone on our list because after all, we do not want our loved ones to think we have forgotten them. We become so busy throughout the year that Christmas is simply the time we finally take to catch up on everything we missed. We’ve forgotten our grandmother in that nursing home and put off visiting her too long. We’ve neglected to call our parents and let them know we love them. Now is the time of year we find the time. We recognize our measure of peace in finally finding the time.

This is our culture. More and more we are finding the time throughout the year to give. The media has been playing a part in assisting us in lending a helping hand. More and more commercials are depicting little acts of kindness. We like to see people serving others.

All too much anymore we are seeing how short life can be and how every moment can be our last. Some of us have not become desensitized to the horrors of terrorism and war we see on our screens. I ask myself, how will I help those hungry and suffering, those frightened by forces of which they have no control?

Oh, Iraq, will there ever be peace for you? Will there ever be an end to the horrible conditions? My impulse is to pray and ask for peace. Will there be peace on earth?

I commit to letting that peace begin with me.

Some of us are having a tough time. Some of us are apart from our families and friends. Some of us are trapped in bitterness and cannot see a way out. Sometimes the hardest journey out is from within.

Sit down. Breathe. Take stock of your life and try to make an appreciation list. Maybe that bitter darkness can be penetrated by a little warmth.

And for those of you who need it, I am sending you warmth, hope and love.

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Kwanzaa! Hare Krishna!

Written by Lisa Trimarchi

Books, Etc., of Note

(That Would Make Great Christmas Gifts)

*Let Your Goddess Grow!

7 Spiritual Lessons on Female Power and Positive Thinking

ISBN: 0-9766012-0-6; $19.95

*The Women’s Book of Empowerment

323 Affirmations That Change Everyday Problems into Moments of Potential

ISBN: 0-9766012-I-4; $19.95

Two personal growth/self help books by Charlene M. Proctor, PhD, help lead people to a more positive mind and heart set. “She believes in your potential to transform the world through higher levels of conscious awareness.” Both books are available in most bookstores and online.

*How Much Is Enough?

Balancing Today’s Needs with Tomorrow’s Retirement Goals

ISBN: 0-471-73871-9; $14.95

This book by Diane McCurdy, CFP, provides helpful information for anyone planning for financial independence. Having recently retired, I was interested to see which decisions I had made were right and which were wrong.

For the forty-eight percent of Americans who choose to be self-employed rather than work for someone else, the chapter entitled “The Entrepreneurial Option” should be of particular interest. “The Entrepreneur Quiz” at the beginning of this chapter tests whether or not your personality is suited for the risks an entrepreneur must take.

The book is divided into two parts: What Is Enough? and Getting Enough. Thirteen chapters on financial planning further divide the book.

*The Fitness Challenge is a game designed for “the wannabe exerciser.” It was created by Vicki Sorensen and her mother, Stephanie Rhodes, “life-long wannabe exercisers who continue to rely on The Fitness Challenge to jump start their workout regimens.” The object of the game “is for two people of any age or fitness level to challenge each other to participate in and complete an eight-week exercise program.”

To learn more, visit www.fitnesschallenge.com. The game costs $29.95 and can be purchased at any Borders bookstore, online at Amazon.com, drugstore.com, Target.com, and Walmart.com.

By Lee L. Peoples

“Size 12 is the New Two”

Talking Chic

“Size 12 is the New Two”

…That is what I remind myself when I stand nude in front of my full-length mirrors studying my hump: size 12 is the new two…size 12 is the new two… size 12 is the new two. O. K. Fine – it shouldbe the new two. Now even though a lady doesn’t reveal her true size (or some bull like that), I’ll admit it – I’m a six-slash-eight. But I will say that I floated in the double digits almost immediately as I turned 21; a time in a gal’s life when she has the ticket to buy alcohol herself before bar hoppin’ and clubbin’, all the while looking forward to a midnight drive-thru at Del Taco with her favorite friend.

So like it was just yesterday, I remember when my older sister finally dragged my then 22-year-old body to the gym, smack in the middle of my Sunday morning hangover (hint, hint). Fortunately, I joined the gym my first day there. After witnessing a horrific side profile of what looked to be me while trying to jog on the treadmill – yikes! There was no turning back.

However, forget about my poor choices in the past. It is common knowledge that if the fashion world and social standards were more lenient toward women with shape and a naturally fuller figure, I would feel a little more at peace. And, like millions of other women, I wouldn’t have those pesky voices in the back of my mind yelling at me. “Don’t give in to that ham croissant at the donut shop fatty!” or “C’mon, just a few more pounds to go. Then you’ll have something to show off to your friends for once!” and the worst one yet, “Just smoke for about a month longer and you will totally look skinnier.”

As I listen to those voices, half feeling like crap and half trying to rationalize my inner turmoil, I can’t help but think of the couture models of Fashion Week. Although most of their waist sizes look almost equivalent to the size of just one of my thighs and their shoulder bones ridiculously identical to those of hungry, third-world children, the clothes truly look gorgeous . But hearing that a model actually died from anorexia – the Brazilian beauty who weighed about 88 pounds and worked in the industry mainly to support her family – hit home. After many shows at L.A. Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, I’ve sat outside and model-watched. The skinny jean, the cigarette in one hand and cell phone in the other…deep down, I sometimes would wish I had the same consistent control in maintaining protruding hip bones (sans smoking to do so).

But when it comes down to it, I would rather not look like a starving boy. We live in the richest country in the world, and I’m so overpretending that food is my enemy. Yes, I have not yet reached my ideal weight, but you won’t see me crying over it anymore. In fact, I have a wonderful brownie and hot chocolate waiting for me when I’m finished writing this column.

In my early 20s, I went from loving the gym and enjoying a sweat to obsessively counting calories and spending more time inside a room full of workout machines than spending time talking to my father. Now happily at 26, I have found my balance.

After getting health tips off MSN, studying my vegetarian mother’s eating habits, substituting a Corona with a vodka and soda water, and joining an intense cycling course for the best workout ever, I have realized that to actually sculpt my body into a fit and more proportioned shape means leading a healthy lifestyle and wearing clothes that fit me now . This doesn’t mean buying clothes in hopes that one day I can squeeze into a size two. Guess what? I don’t want to be a size two. Just as I enjoy my flat stomach and strong calves, I am learning to enjoy my curves as well.

Despite recent discussion or controversy about how tiny models are becoming, the truth does remain: fashion looks best when it complements one’s shape . And you know what? If that means purchasing bigger sizes to get the flowing, luscious look you’ve always aspired to, then guess what, ladies. Leave your ego at the door and think health over ridiculous standards. Like seriously, that could save your life.

Written by Elana Pruitt

Visit the “Talking Chic” website at www.talkingchic.com.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes – A Holiday Recipe

Having family over for brunch does not have to be a stressful event. My family is from the South, and traditionally we have a big spread for breakfast around 10 a.m., which includes sausages, scrambled eggs, biscuits, and grits. Try the following menu to impress your loved ones Christmas morning.

Brunch:

Fried Catfish

Sausage Scramble

Biscuits

Cheese Grits

Fried Green Tomatoes

Ambrosia

Biscuits

(Serves 4)

2 cups self-rising flour

1/2 stick of butter

1 egg

1/2 cup of milk

Preheat oven 350 degrees. Cut butter into flour until it looks grainy. Set aside. Mix milk and egg together, and then mix into the flour mixture. Do not mix too much. Knead mixture for 30 seconds on floured surface. Let stand for 10 minutes. Shape into biscuits. Place on cookie sheet dusted with flour. Bake approximately 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove promptly from oven. Set aside to cool. Makes approximately 10 biscuits.

Serve with jam and butter.

Fried Catfish

(Serves 4)

4 medium sized catfish filets

3/4-cup cornmeal

1/4-cup flour

Salt and pepper

Cooking Oil

Mix and Cut filets into quarters. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix flour and cornmeal.

Dredge filets in mixture.

Deep fry for 10 minutes or until golden brown, set aside to drain on paper towels.

Cheese Grits

Follow directions on box to serve four.

Remove from heat and set aside for 5 minutes.

Crack an egg into the mixture and mix thoroughly.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Follow with 2 tablespoons of butter.

Sprinkle cheese on top of mixture.

Sausage Scramble

1 dozen eggs

1/4-teaspoon of water

1 package of sausage

2 green onions minced

1/8-teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and Pepper

Red Pepper Sauce

1/4 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded.

Crumble sausage and cook through in large skillet. Set aside.

Crack eggs and mix thoroughly; mix in water. Add onions, red pepper flakes and salt and pepper.

Cook in separate skillet on low heat. Be careful not to overcook. The eggs will have a curdled appearance when done.

Add to the sausage mixture.

Sprinkle red pepper sauce over mixture. Mix. Sprinkle cheese over top.

Fried Green Tomatoes

4 large green tomatoes sliced 1/4 inch in thickness

Cornmeal

Salt and Pepper

Hot oil

Sprinkle tomato slices with salt and pepper

Dredge in cornmeal

Fry until brown. Enjoy.

Ambrosia Punch

This punch will be sure to pack a punch!

1qt. of Orange Juice

1 liter of 7 up

1 pint of Rum

1 pint of Grenadine

1 orange, sliced, peel and all

Serve over ice and enjoy.

Enjoy your Christmas brunch, and don’t worry about the calories. Christmas comes only once a year! See the next issue for the after Christmas brunch workout, sure to burn calories.

Written by Lisa A. Trimarchi

The 12 Frogs of Christmas – Men to Avoid if You Want a Happy Holiday

THE 12 FROGS OF CHRISTMAS

Men to Avoid if You Want a Happy Holiday

Ahhhh, Christmas – the most glorious time of the year! And it can be the most romantic time of the year, too. Shopping through festively decorated stores, sharing eggnog in front of a crackling fire, sledding and playing in the snow, going to parties with friends and family – all of these can be wonderful if the man you’re dating is a prince. But what if he’s a frog – and kissing him won’t turn him into a prince?

The holidays can be a real bust if you’re with the wrong guy. Better to dump that frog now and spend your Christmas alone. You never know, maybe Santa will surprise you with a handsome Prince on your doorstep! In the meantime, if you want to keep the “merry” in Christmas and the “happy” in New Year’s – here are twelve “frogs” that you’ll want to leap away from during the holidays.

1) Frosty, the Frogman

Maybe he doesn’t actually have ice flowing through his veins – but in the “feelings” department, he’s “below zero.” Sure, the sex is great – but not intimate. You’ve been together for a year and he still hasn’t said “I love you.” There’s even a chill in his Christmas card. He signs it, “Seasons Greetings” or “Best Ribbits.” Don’t waste your holidays and nights trying to thaw him out. Give him the cold shoulder and tell him to skate back to the swamp. It’s Christmas – you deserve to be warm and cozy with someone who’s fired up about you.

2) Scrooge McFrog

He’s fine at Thanksgiving, but the next day when Christmas shopping starts, he turns all “Bah Humbug.” You love going to stores and finding the perfect gifts for family and friends; he thinks its crass commercialism and a waste of time and money. You can’t wait to pick out a tree and decorate it with popcorn and gingerbread men; he says he’d rather have a root canal. You suggest a holiday ski trip; he tells you he hates skiing at Xmas – the slopes are too crowded and the prices are inflated. Then, when a group of friends invites you caroling, he has to stay home and grout his tiles. Finally, on Christmas Eve, he mellows. He takes you on a shopping spree and tells you to pick out anything you want – from the clearance rack – at the 99 cent store. It doesn’t take Three Wise Men to figure out that you’d be One Foolish Girl to tie your hopes and dreams to this package.

3) Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Toad

Stringing tinsel in front of everyone, he’s sweet, caring and affectionate. But his act is phonier than a plastic Christmas tree. When you get home, he drops his holiday cheer and bully frogs you. Then with your folks on Christmas morning, he’s Mr.Wonderful again. He’s all candy canes and kisses as he surprises you with a fabulous Versace dress. Everyone “oohs” and “ahhs” at his loving and generous spirit. But when they leave, out pops Evil Santa again. He says, “It’s a gorgeous dress, but it’s for someone younger… and thinner. I’ll take it back and get you something else.” He takes it back – but the something else never arrives. Talk about an Indian Giver! He’s an Amphibian Giver! You should give him back and find someone else!

4) The Frog of Christmas Past, Present, and Future

This is the guy who’s always there – he’s just never there to say, “I DO.” If it’s your 5th Christmas together, and when you open your gifts, there’s no ring to decorate your finger – it’s time to re-decorate your love life. This man isn’t commitment-phobic – he’s commitment- frogic! Don’t get caught in Christmas Past if you want a Christmas Future. With this frog, Jingle Bells will never turn into Wedding Bells. Tell him to hop on his sleigh and sled back to his lily pad.

5) The Green-Eyed Frogster

Before you even get to the Christmas party, this frog shows his true colors – green and greener. During the holidays, most people experience joy; he only experiences jealousy. You greet him at your door ready to head to a friend’s gathering. Instead of telling you how yummy you look, he rages: “That dress is too tight, too sexy and too revealing.” And you’re wearing a tailored suit! He makes you change three times, then chooses your outfit himself. You feel perfectly ravishing in an ankle-length muu-muu and a fur-covered parka with a hood! Once at the party, he freaks out every time a man passes by. This isn’t flattery; it’s madness. He even sneaks around removing all the mistletoe. And in the powder room when you look in the mirror, guess who’s behind you? He’s not a boyfriend; he’s a bodyguard! Don’t let his hang-ups hang you up at the holidays. Tell him to hail a reindeer and take off for the North Pole.

6) The Really-Nice-Guy-but-Really-Bad Kisser Frog

You’ve been flirting with your water cooler buddy all year. Now, at the office Christmas party, you’re both looking hot and feeling frisky. A little eggnog, a little dancing, a little mistletoe! Together, you go for the big moment and lock lips. Yucch! He slimes you with a huge, slobbery, wet one. You feel like taking a shower and gargling with Drano. It seems like this man’s a better “bud” than beau. Lucky for you – office romances are way too tricky, so consider it a gift from Old St. Nicky!

7) The Eggnog Frog

Rudolph isn’t the only one with a red nose. Beware if your date leaps head first into the eggnog and never comes up. Or if when he surfaces, he stumbles over the nativity scene, crushes the presents and knocks over the tree. Another sign of seasonal sloshing is if he sticks his hand in the Christmas turkey and does a puppet show. Then when you suggest some fresh air, he staggers outside and tinkles his name in the snow. Once back in the house for dessert, he scarfs down the pumpkin pie and tosses his Christmas cookies! All over your boss – so much for this year’s Christmas bonus! Watch out for this overly festive frog – he’ll have eggnog on your dress and egg on your face!

8) Mistletoe or MistleToad!

Wow! This guy is hot and sexy. You’ve been eyeing each other in the elevator for months. Then, at the building’s Christmas party, you meet under the mistletoe. The moment your lips touch, you light up like the tree at Rockefeller Center. Ooh, it’s going to be a very Merry Christmas! And maybe a Happy New Year, too! Hey, Christmas only comes once a year, so why not go back to his place? The only problem? The stockings hung by the mantle aren’t Christmas stockings – they’re his wife’s stockings. Their wedding photo is on the mantle, too. He tells you not to worry; she went to Latvia to visit her folks. She’ll never know if he’s been naughty or nice. Don’t wait for New Year’s to make your resolution – no more sitting under the Christmas tree with anyone who’s a frog!

9) The Uncouth Frog

Okay, so he’s handsome, funny, and smart. But at Christmas with your family, he’s also rude, vulgar and crude. The first sign is when he casually suggests to your sister that she come over to his place for a naked tree-trimming party. And from there it goes downhill. He thinks flossing with tinsel at the dinner table is funny. And your 86-year-old nana doesn’t appreciate his off-color jokes about Mrs. Claus and the elves. Then, when you’re all sharing holiday stories, he tells the one about his uncle who choked and croaked on a fatal fruitcake. Swear to yourself that next year you will not spend Christmas with someone who loudly burps out “Jingle Bells.” Make it a “Silent Night” without him.

10) Gift of the Frogi

Does he actually think you’ve been waiting all year for a set of Ginzu carving knives from the Home Shopping Network? This frog isn’t cheap, he’s just clueless. But no, another year, another vacuum! Next time he gives you a Hoover, there’d better be a diamond bracelet around the handle. But it’s not just in the gift department that he’s romantically challenged. His plans for Christmas Eve are to visit a junkyard to find a carburetor for his ’68 Chevy. He’s sure it’ll be fun for you, too, since he gave you a gift subscription to Car and Driver. If you’re “wrapped up” with a frog like this, for Christmas, you should give him a special gift – a fond farewell.

11) The Frog Who’s a Wolf

The holiday’s here and he’s on the prowl. Whether you’re Christmas shopping or partying, his eyes always stray. As soon as your back is turned, he shamelessly flirts with other women. He even hands out candy canes with his phone number on the wrapper. And what was his Christmas present to his secretary? A thong! Then, at your family’s holiday dinner, he plays Santa and invites your female cousins to sit on his lap – for a lap dance. Don’t be snowed by this horny toad. Check him “off” your Christmas list.

12) Merry EXmas & a Froggy New Year

He’s been divorced for years, but his ex is with you every Christmas – if not in person, in spirit. Her photos are all around the house. He puts their old Christmas cards on the mantle and hangs three stockings – yours, his and hers! Then, he wants you to bake holiday cookies “her” way. And that beautiful engraved bracelet he gave you… has her initials on it! You’re even invited to her parents’ house for Christmas dinner – except he conveniently frogets to tell them that he’s bringing you! Give yourself a present. Get out of this Ménage a Toad. If your Xmas becomes an EXmas – instead of “Ho, ho, ho,” say “No, no, no!”

Final Frognote: If you’re playing leapfrog with any of these men, wake up and smell the swamp water! Remember, whether it’s a holiday or any day, you deserve a prince! Now go out and have yourself a simply marvelous Merry Christmas and a Hoppy, oops, Happy New Year!

* * *

Written by Marilyn Anderson, a television & film writer, and author of NEVER KISS A FROG: A Girl’s Guide to Creatures from the Dating Swamp. Her website is www.neverkissafrog.com.

The Christmas Workout – Give Your Diet the Month Off

It’s the Holiday Season. The air is filled with the aromatic smells of the fresh pine needles and burning fireplaces. We are treated to the festive sights and sounds of the season: the brilliant Christmas lights, the holiday songs playing on the P.A. system in the supermarket, the cheerful decorations even in not so cheerful places, like the DMV.

There are also some rather unpleasant sights and sounds, like increased traffic, no available parking spaces, and whining spoiled brats in the toy stores. But one of the most distressing of the Holiday Season is the sight of our own expanding waistline. You look down at your belt and realize you have to back off one notch, at least if you’re considering exhaling at all that day.

The Health Clubs do some of their best business right after the Holiday Season as guilt- filled resolution makers repent in droves: “Forgive me, Personal Trainer, for I have sinned. It’s been two months since my last workout.” The trainer would reply, “Give me ten Hail Marys, twenty push-ups, and fifty crunches. Now go, and sin no more.”

This is an annual cycle we seem to find ourselves in. When I say we, I mean regular working folk, non-professional athletes, with at least some responsibilities. And while I have written a few health and fitness articles for Agenda Bride , I am not your typical fitness guru. I’m right there in the fight with you. Consequently, I have a perspective that I find lacking in many of the fitness-related articles I read in many magazines. I tailor my articles to people that have an open mind, and some sense of balance. The tips I give can be followed for a lifetime, not just for a six-week crash diet.

Most of the fitness articles I read are written by certified personal trainers with backgrounds in nutrition. That’s admirable because it’s hard to take health tips from a 300-pound smoker with a chili dog in one hand and a beer in the other. But trying to live like a 22-year-old personal trainer, unless you are one, is pretty unrealistic as well. I don’t live in lycra. And working out takes time, not just the activity and travel, but the warm up, cool down, and clean up. For me, time is my most precious commodity.

For them, health and fitness is quite literally their life. They are up on all the latest information because, make no mistake, health and fitness is a science. New studies come out daily stating which vitamins and nutrients are best for muscle building, weight loss, and energy production. They plan their daily routine around their exercise requirements, and food intake. If you have a heavy school load, a full-time job, or a family, fitness can be a high priority, but maybe not your top priority all the time. That’s the difference.

Besides, these are the Holidays. Some of the best food sensations of the year are to be enjoyed during this time. If you try to follow some super strict program now, you’ll deprive yourself of some of what makes this season so eagerly anticipated, and so much fun. I know that sounds very unguru-like. But I’m not encouraging gluttony either. I’m simply saying enjoy the foods of the season in moderation. And maintain or increase your level of physical activity to at least maintain your fitness levels during these times. When January rolls around, you’ll have some good habits established, and you can get more specific with your diet without all the Holiday Season distractions.

If you remember this season’s Dancing with the Stars television show, the winner was former Dallas Cowboy running back Emmitt Smith. He is 5′ 9″ and about 210. Picture him with smaller arms, and a smaller bank account, and that’s me. I train in Mixed Martial Arts twice a week and try to get to the gym another three times a week. I will sometimes play basketball at the park with twenty-somethings, and hold my own. And I used to race bicycles, so it’s not uncommon for me to hop on the road bike and put in 30 to 40 miles on a Sunday morning.

I’m highly competitive now, which makes it impossible to eat a planned meal every three hours, as studies have shown is optimal for speeding up one’s metabolism. That’s crucial for weight loss, and fat burning, so I’m at a disadvantage there. I have a wife and kid that command a certain amount of my spare time, especially during my son’s various sports seasons. And there are days, particularly high stress days, when calculating calories is just another stressor I’d prefer to ignore. Besides, I really love food.

Am I in good shape? Yes, especially for my age group. My health is important to me. Am I in the best possible shape? Nope. I’m not willing to make the sacrifices necessary to attain such a goal. I’d have to be a lot more selfish. Could I afford to lose a few pounds? Yes–ten to be exact. And I will do it the same way I suggest in my articles. Not with some complicated 40-30-30 plan, not with some fad diet like the South Beach, the North Shore, Eastern Seaboard, or whatever. I’m not going to call Roto-Rooter for my colon, either. I’ll simply chart my caloric intake, maintain balanced nutrition, cut down on empty calories (sweets, and snack foods), and get some discipline into my workouts.

My mantra is burn more calories than you take in. It is really an oversimplification of a plan that involves aerobic activity in the morning before eating (enhanced metabolism), eating five to six small meals a day, with fruits and vegetables in most of them. A low calorie protein shake would qualify as a meal. Staying hydrated by drinking around 64 ounces of water during the day. And generally being more active in my everyday life, like taking the stairs every once in a while. Or maybe it’s walking to the grocery store instead of driving. It can be as simple as playing catch with my son, or taking the dog out for some playtime.

If for some reason it is necessary for you to lose weight right now, may the force be with you. It won’t be easy with all this temptation around you. Activity and hydration are going to be your keys to success. And try to steer clear of all the desserts. If you have a slice of pumpkin pie with whipped cream, be prepared to extend your aerobic workout an extra 30 minutes to compensate. If you are strength training, increase your intensity because muscle burns more calories than fat at rest. Adding muscle to your physique doesn’t just make you look better; it supports your skeletal structure and makes you a more efficient fat burner.

But it’s the Holiday Season, and I’m not going to be deprived of all that good Holiday Season food. I wouldn’t ask myself to lose weight during this time. I thoroughly enjoy these culinary delights that come once a year. I will try not to overindulge. And I’ll maintain a high level of physical activity, and stay hydrated. Consequently, I won’t gain extra weight. There will be no gym confessional for me come January. How about you?

Written by Kevin Foster

Digital Picture Frames – The Answer to All Your Digital Picture Problems!

I was at a friend’s house yesterday (Dec. 5, 2006) and noticed a very stylish picture frame with the images changing every few seconds. I was amazed that I had never heard of this before—I simply had to have one! They are not only the perfect gift solution, but I just might throw out my old photo albums and replace them with these new digital ones instead.

There is a growing number and increasing significance of digital pictures in households around the world, more affordable prices for hardware and flash memory, and better product design and features, which create a more enjoyable user experience.

—A recently published report from Parks Associates—

They conclude that this industry is still working out the bugs and that consumers are not likely to change their habits overnight, but eventually the digital photo frame will become mainstream.

The digital picture frame’s merits include convenience, ease of use, and stunning visual effects. And what I like most about these frames is they solve the problem of having to print out your digital photos. No longer will my recently taken pictures stay locked inside my digital camera. I won’t have to listen to my husband asking me repeatedly to to print out our pictures from our vacation, or to see his nephew’s soccer game. I don’t know about you, but as I am writing this, I am staring at four printers, and I still have no idea how to successfully print out one 4X5 image—not to mention the price of ink these days. It seems like manufacturers are practically giving printers away just so they can sell you the ink! But I digress.

The Smartparts Digital Picture Frame

The Smartparts Digital Picture Frame displays digital photos on its built-in screen, your television, or your computer!

It reads from CompactFlash, SecureDigital and MMC Memory Cards; it has a Built-in Memory Card Reader; it connects to PCs; and is easy to use—no installation required. The TV Viewer allows you to view pictures on any television.

Now run out and buy this great new holiday gadget for yourself, a few family members, and friends!

Digital picture frames can be purchased at most camera stores, including Samy’s Camera, or at several websites online, includingwww.buy.com, www.amazon.com, www.BizRate.com, special holiday deals from www.RitzCamera.com, and so many more!

Written by Kaylene Peoples