Don't Feel Bad About Getting a Facelift

In many aspects of life, self-improvement is applauded. If we do not achieve the results we want on a test, we study until we know the material. If we are not physically fit, we can exercise to improve our strength. These actions are applauded.

However, some people feel self-conscious or embarrassed about taking actions to improve their physical appearance by getting a facelift. This article will show why getting a facelift should never cause anyone to feel shame. A facelift is no different than any other act of self-improvement. Even better, in many instances, facelifts provide long term positive consequences.

Photo by Icons8 team on Unsplash

Self-esteem for a healthy life

From the time we are children, we are taught to value ourselves based on our looks. Babies and children who are perceived as being more attractive are favored by parents and teachers alike. It is little wonder, then, that studies show that self-esteem is significantly correlated with attractiveness, especially in women.

Self-esteem has a wide-ranging influence on other aspects of physical and mental health. Studies indicate that low self-esteem in adolescents is correlated with limited economic output and increased criminal behavior throughout adulthood. While self-esteem is a complicated issue based on much more than just behavior, it makes sense for us to take whatever actions we can to improve our self-esteem.

As stated by Dr. Andrew Jacono, facelifts can help rejuvenate and improve appearance, which is strongly linked to self-esteem. The American Psychological Association reports that a year after plastic surgery, a majority of patients were happier with the body part that had been operated on. This suggests that plastic surgery has more than a fleeting impact on our happiness.

Photo by Candice Picard on Unsplash

You deserve to be pampered

In this day and age, self-care is recognized as an important part of life. Our culture encourages us to take time for ourselves by going to the spa, getting manicures, and eating healthy. Yet despite an increased cultural emphasis on self-care, most adults are not holistically caring for themselves. About 18% of American adults experience anxiety regularly. The majority do not receive any medical treatment for their anxiety.

Making self-care a part of your routine can be one way to decrease your chances of experiencing anxiety. Getting a facelift can be part of this holistic culture of self-care and pampering.

Take control of your own destiny

A hundred years ago, most people simply accepted difficult facts of life and tried to deal with them. Many illnesses did not have effective treatments, and death and disability were a regular part of life.

Nowadays, we don't simply accept that unpleasant facts of life must exist. We deal with difficulties head-on and try to solve them rather than live with them. Doctors have cured countless diseases and global life expectancy has shot up. No one looks at this as unnatural.

A facelift is no different. A hundred years ago, men and women had no choice but to accept growing older. Even if they were internally dissatisfied with their appearance, there was nothing to be done about wrinkles and lumps.

Things are different now. Medicine has given us the ability to take control of our own appearance. Facelifts are a well-developed and advanced way of dealing with an unpleasant fact of life. They shouldn't be perceived differently than any other medical treatment that is designed to enhance the quality of life.

Photo by Candice Picard on Unsplash

An investment in your future

Like it or not, looks are important when it comes to professional success. According to studies, attractiveness begins to have an impact on career outcomes as early as high school, when more attractive candidates are given advantages in some parts of the college admissions process. Candidates who are perceived as more physically attractive are more likely to get hired, promoted, and have higher levels of income. Once they are hired, research indicates that attractive men and women are more likely to succeed in cooperative settings like the modern office.

This may all seem unfair, but we cannot change the system in which we live. We can, however, change the way that we are perceived in that system. A facelift can help improve a person's level of attractiveness and potentially lead to greater success in the workplace.

Facelifts can be a point of pride

As you can see, facelifts should never be seen as something to feel bad about. People who choose to get facelifts are taking positive action to improve their self-esteem and earning potential. They are taking their destinies into their own hands using a modern and efficient medical procedure.

Seen in this light, facelifts are not something shameful, but a point of pride. A person who gets a facelift is proclaiming that she takes care of her appearance and that she values herself enough to give herself a little luxury once in a while.

7 Warning Signs & Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Nutritional deficiencies are always harmful to health because they put your system out of balance. The best way to address them is by being aware of the symptoms so that you can detect them early. Amongst the key nutrients that you should not miss out on is vitamin B12. It is significant for making red blood cells and supports the nervous system as well. You cannot ignore the role of red blood as they carry around oxygen in the body. Hence, vitamin B12 is vital to keep you in good health.

Photo by freestocks.org on Unsplash

However, its deficiency is common because the human body does not produce this vitamin on its own, rather depends on food sources. So you must keep a close eye on certain warning signs and symptoms that indicate its deficiency. These may be a little difficult to assess because they are quite similar to those of some other nutritional deficiencies. Awareness, therefore, can make all the difference to timely diagnosis. Here are the ones that you should be watchful about.

Pale Skin
If your skin appears pale in color, you may be deficient in vitamin B12. This usually happens when your body fails to produce enough red blood cells due to the lack of this nutrient. The condition is known as megaloblastic anemia, which may subsequently lead to jaundice. The RBC’s become weak so that the body breaks them down quickly. It results in the release of a brownish substance called bilirubin, which is responsible for pale skin.

Photo by Anthony Tran on Unsplash

Fatigue
Fatigue is another common sign of vitamin B12 deficiency. Again the inadequacy of RBCs is the reason behind the weakness or fatigue you experience. When your body does not have enough of the cells, the organs do not get the amount of oxygen they need. As a result, you end up feeling weak and tired. If you constantly get this feeling, do not overlook it because the concern may be more serious than you think.

Changes to Mobility
When this deficiency is left untreated, it may damage your nervous system and compromise with your mobility. You may even lose your balance and coordination.  This symptom is usually visible in the elderly though even younger people with a severe, untreated deficiency may also fall prey. The best way to address it is by taking vitamin B12 shots because dietary sources will not be enough. It is better to get diagnosis and treatment in time before such an adverse situation arises.

Tingling Sensation in the Limbs
Another warning sign that you should watch out for is a tingling sensation in your hands and feet. Once again, this symptom is a serious issue because it indicates nerve damage. Vitamin B12 helps in the production of myelin, a substance that shields the nerves and enables them to transmit sensations. Without enough of myelin, your nerves become damaged and are unable to function properly. This often leads to “pins and needles” sensation in the limbs.

Breathlessness and Dizziness
B12 deficiency can cause breathlessness and dizziness, particularly on exertion. This happens because your body gets low on oxygen because there are not enough RBCs to supply it. The signs may also be accompanied by a rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Besides vitamin B12 deficiency, these signs may indicate some other conditions as well. So you should seek medical advice sooner rather than later.

Mouth Pain and Ulcers
Vitamin B12 affects oral health too. Deficiency can, therefore, cause a series of oral health issues. The most common one is glossitis, a condition results in the tongue becoming red and swollen.  Ulcers and a burning sensation in the mouth are some other indications of the deficiency of this vitamin. Don’t ignore these issues if you have been facing them for some time.

image credit

Mood Swings
Beyond physical signs and symptoms, vitamin B12 deficiency may also appear as mood swings and irritability. You may even have problems thinking and reasoning clearly because the blood supply to the brain is hindered. In worse cases, the deficiency can elevate the risk of brain disorders such as dementia and depression. Low levels of B12 disrupt the signals to and from the brain, leading to such problems.

Now that you know about the common signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, it can be easier to detect. While timely detection matters, remember that prevention is the best approach. The right dietary choices can protect you in the first place. At the same time, you can rely on supplements if you think that you are not getting enough from your diet. Before you start taking supplements, do take advice from a qualified practitioner.

5 Surprising Physical & Mental Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

Meditation is becoming progressively mainstream as more and more people find its wide-extending benefits. It is one wellness trend that shows no indications of disappearing. Though people have been doing meditation for ages, its efficacy has been verified by scientific research today.

Photo by Lesly Juarez on Unsplash

In the present world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by thoughts and feelings. Emotional over-burden generally brings stress and nervousness – and everyone knows the ruin this can unleash on our health. These days, specialists around the world agree that practicing a couple of minutes of care each day can have a significant effect. The physical and mental advantages of meditation are well-archived and exceptionally compelling. Here are a few of our top choices:

A Healthy Heart
Studies clearly prove that a daily meditation practice can improve blood flow, bring down the pulse and help keep up a healthy heart. Psychosomatic Medicine, a confided health distribution, has published an article that shows that persistent meditators have lower measures of lipid peroxide than non-meditators. Recent examinations have also shown that practicing mindfulness meditation helps in lowering blood pressure.

Photo by Ksenia Makagonova on Unsplash

A Stronger Immune System
The resistant framework, a vital part of the human body, is made out of a horde of natural process and structures whose activity is to battle disease and shield the body from outside creatures. As per the research completed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2003, frequent mindfulness sessions appeared to improve meditators’ immune system functions. They additionally delivered positive, enduring changes inside the cerebrum.

Helps Control Pain
Your perception of pain is related to your perspective and the effects of physical health on the mind can be raised in stressful conditions. For this circumstance meditator and non-meditators experienced similar reasons of pain, however, meditators showed a more noteworthy ability to cope with pain and even experienced lessen vibe of pain.

Improved Memory Retention
As we age memory loss to some extent is normal. In light of the context with the maturing populace, researchers presently accept that mindfulness practice can help support cerebrum functions and decelerate memory loss. Truth be told, research has demonstrated that ordinary 20-minute meditation sessions can support memory and improve cerebrum work in those with early dementia or other psychological issues.

image credit

Enhanced Quality of Sleep
Better sleep is one of the most engaging physical advantages of mindfulness practice. We all know that what it's like to toss and turn – practically 50% of individuals overall experience the ill effects of sleep issues or something to that effect. 85% of laborers in the U.S. report having lost sleep on account of employment-related pressure. Studies prove that individuals who practice day-by-day meditation rest better and longer than non-meditators.

The recognition of Mindfulness meditation is expanding as the advantages of Mindfulness show great promise from every aspect to everybody. Often times, it's the easiest things that have a significant impact on our health and prosperity. Whether practiced daily or occasionally, mindfulness meditation can be a powerful way toward enhanced well-being throughout your lifespan.

How Your Nose and Sinuses Can Be Fixed In The Same Surgery

Chronic sinus issues can make your life a dreary nightmare. Although some sinus issues are caused by infections and allergies, others are caused by physical problems with the sinuses that block drainage and airflow; these issues can only be corrected by surgical means. The prospect of undergoing surgery is never a pleasant thought even if it can alleviate unpleasant symptoms.

Photo by Min An from Pexels

Many people are also not very satisfied with the shape or size of their nose. As the center point of the face, the exact shape and size of the nose can dramatically alter a person's appearance and attractiveness. A proud jutting nose may perfectly complement the face of someone with the proper cheekbones and jaw structure, but such a nose may look completely out of place on a differently shaped face. Also, nose injuries can cause noses to be crooked and humped. Considering the dramatic impact a nose can have on a person's appearance, it is not surprising that rhinoplasty, more commonly referred to as a "nose job,'' is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed today.

Something that most people don't know is that sinus problems can be corrected and rhinoplasty can be performed in a single surgical procedure. You can get the nose of your dreams and cure your sniffling, obstructed breathing, and chronic headaches all at once.

What changes to the nose can be made during a rhinoplasty?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, a nose job can:

• Change overall nose size
• Change the width of the bridge of the nose
• Change the width of the end of the nose
• Correct a crooked nose
• Correct humps or depressions in the bridge of the nose
• Change the shape of the end of the nose
• Change the shape and location of the nostrils
• Correct any nasal asymmetry

During the consultation, the surgeon will carefully examine your nose and the rest of your face and discuss your goals and desired nose look. Most surgeons have computer software programs available that can show how each person will look after alterations of their nose. It is important to keep in mind there is no "perfect nose" since the shape of the rest of the face alters how a nose looks. Plunking your favorite star's nose down in the middle of your face may result in a rather ridiculous look. Mark Glasgold, a rhinoplasty expert from New Jersey, writes that the surgeon's goal is to achieve a nose that complements and enhances the appearance of each individual person.

What sinus problems can be corrected during a rhinoplasty?

Deviated septum
The most common sinus problem is a deviated septum. According to ENT Health, around 80% of the population has a septum that is deviated to some degree. The septum is the structure that separates the two breathing passages behind the nostrils; when it is off-center, producing two breathing passages of unequal sizes, it is referred to as deviated. A slightly deviated septum generally doesn't cause any problems, but a more severely deviated septum can cause problems such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• Noisy breathing especially while sleeping
• Mouth breathing
• Nosebleeds
• Sinus infections

A deviated septum that is causing symptoms can only be corrected by surgery.

Nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are soft benign growths that develop in some people's sinuses. According to the Mayo Clinic, they seem to be caused by long-term irritation of the sinuses, such as might occur in response to allergies or asthma. Nasal polyps can cause sleep apnea, obstructed breathing and drainage of the sinuses, leading to frequent or chronic sinus infections. Generally, they need to be surgically removed.

Turbinate issues
The turbinates are structures inside the nose that act to filter, warm, and moisturize inhaled air. Unfortunately, in some people, the turbinates become enlarged or even displaced, leading to obstructed breathing. Healthline says that many of the same conditions that can cause nasal polyps, as described above, can also lead to enlarged turbinates. A deviated septum can also squash and distort some of the turbinates, contributing to breathing difficulties. Some enlarged turbinates can be treated with cauterization, where a special device is inserted into the nose to destroy some of the turbinate tissue, but many enlarged turbinates require surgery to remove the excess, displaced, or damaged tissues.

What happens during a rhinoplasty?
Most rhinoplasties are performed under general anesthesia, although sometimes they can be performed under sedation and local anesthesia. The incisions are placed inside the nose where they cannot be seen or sometimes are made across the thin strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. The exact process depends on what work needs to be done. If parts of the nose need to be reduced, tissue and cartilage will be trimmed away. If parts need to be enlarged, tissue and cartilage will be added. Cartilage grafts can be taken from inside the nose or, more rarely, from an ear to enlarge or repair structures. Any sinus issues will be addressed, such as straightening the septum, reducing the size of the turbinates, and removing any polyps. Then the incisions are closed and splints/packing placed to support the tissues for a few days while they heal.

What is the recovery like?
There will be swelling and bruising of the area for the first few days after the procedure, and a splint may need to be worn for about a week. All signs of the procedure will have vanished about two weeks after the surgery, but strenuous activity should be avoided for at least four weeks. As soon as the swelling begins to go down, the new shape of the nose should become apparent and resolution of the sinus issues should be apparent immediately after the surgery.

How To Better Understand The Correct Food for Toddlers

Raising a toddler can be an immensely rewarding challenge for new parents. The toddler years are full of many changes and exciting developments in your child’s life. These changes can bring a great deal of joy to your life but also a great deal of stress.

Transitioning from caring for an infant to caring for a toddler can be a tricky process for those who are unfamiliar with what to expect. Food for toddlers is an area of particular interest for those new to toddler care. Here, we will look at some specific tips and advice on how to better understand the correct food for toddlers.

Let’s delve into this topic in more specific detail with some advice and recommendations.

Toddler Food Basics

Children start to accommodate new foods at different ages. At the one-year mark, toddlers should be able to tolerate cow’s milk and more solid foods. However, this transition point is somewhat arbitrary and can vary between children.

Remember that even though your child is becoming more independent by the day, you are still the caregiver responsible for all your child’s needs. They cannot think for themselves regarding what they should eat or how much of some things they should eat. Controlling portion sizes, especially of less healthy snacks, is an effective means of ensuring that your toddler develops healthy eating habits and avoids conditions like obesity and heart disease later in life.

One great place to start for nutritional advice is the government food guide. These guides often have explicit recommendations for how much of different types of foods your toddler should be consuming each day for optimal health. Using these guides may even give your own personal dietary habits a health boost. Eventually, making sure to plan healthy and nutrient-dense meals for your family can ensure the well-being of your entire household.

Toddler Milks

If your child is having difficulty in transitioning from breast milk to cow’s milk, toddler milks are a great stepping stone solution. While ideally, your child will be receiving more of their nutrition from solid foods during the toddler years, toddler milks can ensure that these needs are met as a temporary measure.

Toddler milks are made from a preparation that is similar to most infant formula with a cow’s milk foundation. These milks are full of vitamin D, iron, calcium, and many other nutrients that are essential to the healthy development of your toddler.

What To Avoid

There are some things that toddlers simply should not eat at their age. This is because some foods pose a choking or health hazard for young children. Whole grapes, for example, are slippery and may block your child’s windpipe if not consumed with care. Small and hard foods like peanuts or seeds may also present a hazard. If your child wants to enjoy such foods, be sure to chop them up sufficiently before offering them.

Always be mindful of how your child seems to be tolerating certain foods, especially foods that are commonly associated with allergies. Milk, peanuts, wheat, and shellfish are all foods to exercise caution around.

Find More Toddler Food Facts

The best way to ensure that your toddler receives the food and nutrition they need to thrive is to orient yourself towards continual learning and improvement. Nobody knows everything when it comes to proper toddler nutrition and optimal growth. Therefore, taking the time to go through a variety of sources and soliciting expert advice can serve you well. Always consult with your family physician before making any serious modifications to your child’s diet. Your toddler will be all the happier and healthier for your efforts.

New Eyeglasses Update

You might have read a few weeks back about my latest lifestyle change. I have become a new eyeglasses wearer. My vision has definitely changed a good bit in recent years, that's for sure. My main issue is with reading or seeing fine details up close. I was given a prescription for bifocals but was recommended to go with progressives. This turned out to be a huge mistake. I gave myself a solid couple of weeks to get used to them but just couldn't do it. I felt dizzy and disoriented most of the time while wearing them. I had the same issues when wearing the sunglasses which was a bad thing especially while driving.

Photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels

I went back to the eye doctor's office and explained my situation. They suggested that I go ahead and get single vision glasses and use readers for reading and computer/phone use. It took less than 24 hours, and I tested out my new glasses and sunglasses. What a difference! I could see without feeling dizzy. I did have to upgrade my readers from the old ones I had. I had no idea there was such a thing as multi-focus reading glasses. You don't have to constantly take them off to see things that are further away. I can see everything just as well as I can with the prescription glasses. This made me feel a bit annoyed because I spent a lot on the prescription specs. I guess at the end of the day I still needed to get my eyes checked by a professional.

Since I had to get the new eyeglasses and sunglasses made anyway, I went ahead and took advantage of my 30-day exchange time and got better frames for both. You can find prescription glasses on Overnight Glasses. I am so thankful that I can see everything so crisp and clear. Colors are so much more vibrant, and it's nice to see all of the little details I apparently have been missing for a while! I feel so much better overall. If you haven't gotten an eye exam this year yet, this is your friendly reminder to go book that appointment now. Have a great day, and thanks for stopping by.

Nubian Heritage Honey & Black Seed Collection For Kings & Queens

Can you believe that the summer is almost over? Although the school has started in many cities, the summer heat will still be around for a couple more months. Our weather in South Carolina has been unusually dry which means it has been rough on our skin. We make it a point to wear sunscreen when we are going to spend extended time outdoors, as well as keeping hydrated by drinking a lot of water.  

One thing that my family has been exploring more of is natural products when it comes down to skincare. My husband specifically has been using organic black seed oil for a couple years now. Black seed oil dates back over 3,000 in Egypt. It was believed that Queen Nefertiti used it to maintain her exquisite complexion. Black seed earned the Arabic approbation "habbatual barakah", the seed of blessing, for its powerful properties. I was really thrilled to find out about the Honey & Black Seed collection from Nubian Heritage. 

The Honey & Black Seed collection is enriched with antioxidant-rich Black Seed Oil blended with Arabian Honey and Apricot Oil. These ingredients blended with natural enzymes, amino acids, and proteins, boosts the skin’s natural appearance and, with daily use, leaves the skin soft, smooth and hydrated.

The Honey & Black Seed lotion is the most luxurious and moisturizing lotion I have ever used. It's super thick, yet not over-the-top heavy. I like feeling the moisture from lotion long after it was applied, and this one does just that. You can feel the softness all day long. This is one lotion that I do not have to reapply. It has a great neutral scent, so my husband uses it as well.

This soap is so moisturizing and nourishing with little scrubbing bits in it. It lathers a lot better than many other brand soaps I have used. It leaves no residue behind and is good for the most sensitive skin, and has a nice fragrance, too.

The collection includes:

• Bar Soap (SRP: $4.99) 
• Body Lotion (SRP: $10.99) 
• Body Wash (SRP: $10.99) 
• Hand Cream (SRP: $9.99) 
• 24-Hour Deodorant (SRP: $8.99) 
• Infused Shea Butter (SRP: $12.99)

As with all Nubian Heritage products, the Honey & Black Seed collection is cruelty-free, and does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, paraffin, mineral oil, petroleum, DEA, synthetic fragrance or artificial coloring.

Home Team BBQ Columbia Launches Daily Specials MON thru WED

Meatloaf, Pastrami and Prime Rib…oh my! Home Team BBQ is kicking things up a notch by introducing daily specials every Monday through Wednesday, effective immediately. The ongoing specials showcase what Home Team BBQ does best — juicy, smoked meats with out-of-this-world flavor packed in every bite. Guests are invited to make their trip to Home Team BBQ Columbia a three-day affair and get a taste of each finger lickin’ special for themselves. Home Team BBQ looks forward to seeing you every Monday (and Tuesday, and Wednesday!).

- Daily Specials –

Mondays @ 4 p.m.

Smoked Meatloaf

Gravy + 2 Sides

Tuesdays All Day

Pastrami

As a Platter or Reuben

Wednesdays @ 4 p.m.

Smoked Prime Rib

Au Jus + Horseradish Cream + 2 Sides

WHAT:   Home Team BBQ Columbia Launches Daily Specials MON thru WED

WHEN:   Mondays at 4 p.m.
              Tuesdays All Day
              Wednesdays at 4 p.m.

WHERE:  Home Team BBQ Columbia
               700 Harden Street
               Columbia, SC 29205

Check out the full menu here.

STAY IN THE CONVERSATION: @HomeTeamBBQCOLA | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Muffins Recipe

Looking for a healthier option for breakfast or snacks? We have hit back-to-school season, and many of us are time-crunched. Having grab-and-go items is a must for those busy mornings, as well as after school lets out. I've always liked having a variety of snacks available ranging from fruit, cheese, crackers, and baked goods. You definitely have to try out this recipe for vegan cinnamon sugar muffins. I promise you won't know they are vegan! 

Ingredients
For the muffins:

1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 spelt flour (or you can use what you have)
3/4 cup dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
8 ounces applesauce (unsweetened)
1/2 cup organic almond milk
1/2 cup coconut oil
2 tablespoons maple syrup

For the topping:
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 390 (F). Grease or line muffin tray and set aside.

In a large bowl stir together all dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, almond milk, oil, and maple syrup. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring until combined.

Fill the muffin cups 2/3 of the way full, sprinkle each with a little cinnamon sugar, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Let cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Each family member tried a muffin and the reaction was all the same. They all said it tasted like any regular homemade muffin and they would never have guessed it was vegan. The dozen I made seemed to have disappeared in one day. I was lucky to get one! They had the same texture and flavor of a regular muffin using dairy or egg. This recipe is a keeper!

Check out these other recipes:
Best Banana Bread
Blueberry Lemon Bread
Glazed Meyer Lemon Pound Cake

Perfect Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

We are in the heart of the summer weather here in South Carolina. The scorching sun and humidity do not push me to want to be in the kitchen for very long. I have been utilizing my air fryer a lot to avoid going outside in the heat to grill or to have to turn on the oven. It seems to take forever for my house to cool down once the oven is on. I have been making a variety of lighter dishes, as well as salads. I came across a recipe for Greek pasta salad from Skinnytaste and decided to try it out. I did make a few adjustments because I felt like some of the fruit and vegetable quantities were way too much.

One thing that I love about pasta salad or potato salad is that you can make enough for leftovers for the next day or two. When I made this pasta salad, I was afraid it was too much for my family. It turned out to be so delicious, that it all got devoured over the course of a few days. The recipe is super simple and is definitely one you will want to hang on to. It makes a great side dish for family meals and cookouts.

Greek Pasta Salad

Ingredients: 

one 16-ounce box of pasta (Bow ties or rotini work well)

2 cups of diced English cucumber (skin on)

1 small orange bell pepper, diced

1 small red bell pepper, diced

1/2 of a small red onion finely chopped

1/2 pint of either cherry or grape tomatoes sliced in half

4 ounces crumbled or cubed Feta cheese

1/2 cup of kalamata olives sliced in half

dressing:

1/3 cup olive oil

3 tbsp red wine vinegar

2 tbsp kalamata olive brine

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp Kosher salt

cracked black pepper (optional)

How to make it: 

• Boil pasta in well-salted water according to package instructions. Test for desired doneness and drain. Rinse with cold water, and let it cool at least 10 minutes. 
• Whisk together all of the dressing ingredients.
• In an extra-large bowl, toss pasta, chopped fruit/veggies, and dressing together.
• Add feta at the end. 

Refrigerate and enjoy! Be sure to Pin this recipe for later. 

You might also enjoy these recipes:

• Southern Caviar
• The Perfect Potato Salad to take to a cookout
• Best Deviled Eggs Recipe

Thank you for stopping by today!
Shelly

Bao and Broth Now Open In Optimist Hall, Charlotte NC #LiveNoodsWarmBuns #WeDontCutCorners

After its announcement in 2018, the long-awaited Bao and Broth officially began serving customers at the opening of Charlotte’s new Optimist Hall on Thursday, August 1, 2019.

The ramen and steamed bun shop has long been in the back of Executive Chef Larry Schreiber’s mind. Since 2014, Schreiber served as Executive Chef at and helped open Moffett Restaurant Group’s Good Food on Montford, where his steamed bun was a hit. Now, Larry’s thrilled to be opening his own restaurant purely dedicated to the food concept that has earned him recognition across the Charlotte food scene. This time, he’s added ramen and other Asian delectables that will have Optimist Hall perusers stop in their tracks when they smell his chef-d'oeuvres.

Even the pickiest of eaters will be able to find something at the highly customizable eatery. For $12, those longing for a hot bowl of ramen can choose from a variety of broths, proteins, and toppings to satisfy their craving. There are also vegetarian options, such as the Unctuous onion broth. Ramen not your thing? Check out the listing of baos offered. Despite the title referencing pork belly buns, Bao and Broth ensures that all eaters can enjoy their menu, with additional bun options including schnitzel, chicken, bulgogi, and falafel. If you still can’t get enough, side items, dessert, and the house specialty – rice cakes and pork belly kimchi – are also available.

“I’ve been a part of a few restaurants before but creating these recipes [for Bao and Broth] and testing them has been one of my favorite experiences,” said Schreiber. “Back at Good Food on Montford, we only served one option – the pork bun. Now with this restaurant, we have the capability to expand on it, and it’s been so fun putting together all sorts of flavors to see what mixes well. I think the schnitzel bun has to be my favorite, but I’m excited to see which items our guests like the most.”

The opening of Bao and Broth is part of the first of three restaurant opening phases at Optimist Hall, with the other two set to occur in the early fall. The stall is order-at-the-counter style, and guests can devour their meals either indoors or outdoors at the community seating hall, or at one of the few seats alongside the ramen bar. Schreiber also mentioned there are plans to include online ordering once the stall gets up and running, which will make it even easier to get this delicious food in your mouth as fast as possible.

Bao and Broth’s hours will be 11AM to 9PM Sunday – Thursday, and 11AM to 10PM Friday – Saturday.

Photo credit: Stefanie Haviv
About Bao and Broth:
Open August 1, the ramen and steamed bun shop is owned and operated by head Chef Larry Schreiber. Bao and Broth offers a full menu consisting of traditional Asian bao’s and broths with sides and desserts in accompaniment. Located in Optimist Hall in Suite 5. Head to BaoandBroth.com to learn more.

Beautiful Flowering Trees That Would Enhance Any Garden

If you like flowers as well as trees, why not plant a couple of flowering trees? That way you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

There are hundreds of different types of flowering trees for you to choose between. So, I thought I would do a little bit of research and share the details of some of my favorites to help you to narrow down your choices.

Flowering fruit trees

I am going to start by speaking about flowering fruit trees, which actually covers quite a big group of trees. These days, it is easy to find ornamental cherry, plum, pear and crab apple trees. They are all hybrids of trees that produce blossoms, which then turns into fruit.

The way they have been bred means that they produce an enormous amount of blossoms. Far more than a natural fruit tree would. They do go on to produce fruit, but people rarely eat that as if you bought them from a farmer's market. You may have some success with making juice, jellies, and jams using them.

Photo by Henry & Co. on Unsplash

Of course, if you think you would like to eat what you grow you could always just buy a traditional cherry, apple, pear or plum tree. You will still get some nice blossoms, in the spring. Just nowhere near as much as you would if you were to plant ornamental varieties.
If you want to enjoy double the color for your money, take a look at purple-leaved plums. As the name suggests, once the blossoms have gone, you will still be able to enjoy the rich purple leaves.

Crape myrtles

These trees produce long-lasting, brightly colored flowers throughout the summer. You can buy both evergreen and deciduous varieties. There are about 50 varieties available, most of which can be trained to grow as a bush or a tree. Their versatility is part of the reason this family of plants is so popular. We have these all over South Carolina.

Magnolias

A lot of people assume that magnolias are bushes. This is because most of the ones they see have been kept short or have not enjoyed the growing conditions they need to grow into full-blown trees.

If you can, let yours grow it into a tree. It really is worth doing. They are stunning looking trees even when they are not in full bloom. So, if you have enough space and the right conditions, a magnolia tree would be a great addition to your yard.

image credit

Mimosas

Another nice option is mimosas. These flowering trees have interesting leaves and produce a riot of complex flowers during very hot conditions. Keep a special eye out for varieties like the Chocolate Mimosa Silk Tree. These elegant trees feature stunning looking purple-colored leaves. They are not yet widely available. So, if you want to stand out, search out and buy one of these.

Redbuds

If you only have a small garden, take a look at redbuds. These compact trees bloom through the spring at the same time their distinctive glossy heart-shaped leaves grow in. They are nice and hardy, so you can plant them in most warm temperate climates.

Hopefully, one of the five suggestions above will appeal to you and suit your needs. If not, don’t worry, you can easily buy some nice flowering shrubs instead and let them grow rather than keep them trimmed back. Many varieties will reach 20ft, or more, once mature. This slide share style article tells you about 23 of the tallest ones.

Trying To Adjust To Seeing Things Differently

For as long as I can remember, I have had excellent vision. I was the type of person to find the tiniest details in photos, artwork, or in any real-life scenery. People would always be amazed and say things like, "How on earth are you able to see that?" Fast forward to my middle 40s. Things aren't quite as crystal clear as they used to be. I have experienced more stress, anxiety, and depression in the last few years than I felt like I could handle. It was as if I cried and stressed the days away for 3 years straight. It was affecting my life in many ways.

One thing I noticed was that I had trouble seeing clearly when I was on the computer, phone or reading a magazine. I could barely see the menu when we were dining out in a restaurant. I spoke with my doctor and she suggested that I get some reading glasses. I bought some from my pharmacy and saw instant results. I could see clearly again! Reading glasses did the trick, and I could put them on and take them off as needed. This seemed easy enough. I did this for a little over a year and things changed again. I started getting headaches out of the blue and felt so much tension in my neck and shoulders.

I knew something wasn't right, and finally made an appointment for an eye exam. As soon as I walked into the building, I was overwhelmed. The friendly staff member directed me over to fill out the paperwork and select frames for eyeglasses. This was so different for me since it was the first time knowing that I was going to need glasses. The appointment itself was eye-opening. I had no idea how my vision declined as much as it did over the past couple of years. When the doctor switched different lenses to see if I was able to see clearly, it hit me-- my vision was terrible. It turned out that I had been compensating for what I wasn't seeing clearly or seeing at all.

The doctor then casually tells me, "I'm going to get you squared away so I'm writing you a prescription for bifocals." I was gut-punched because I really didn't know it was that bad. I took some deep breaths and sat with the specialist to get measurements done and make the selections that would be most beneficial to me. I was gut-punched once more when I got the final bill. YIKES! My husband was with me and calmed me down by telling me that I take care of everyone else, and it was time for me to take care of myself. I was told that my glasses would take approximately 2 weeks to be made and delivered.

For the next two weeks, I ended in so much pain from eye strain that led to neck and shoulder tension. I was a mess! I felt like I had to take 3 naps a day which is so not me. I'm thankful for my family who pitches in when I am down. They helped me a whole lot, especially the little one since he is with me all day long. I was super nervous when the call came in that my glasses were ready to be picked up. I sat at the counter with the salesperson and tried my glasses and sunglasses on. As soon as I placed the glasses on my face I felt really weird. I was like wait, I can't see properly. They told me because they are progressive lenses and I will have to get used to them.

As I left the building, I placed my pricey prescription sunglasses on and was hit with vibrant views. Everything around me was extra bright and colorful. I was seeing as clearly as I could when I was a teenager. I almost cried because I didn't realize how much I have been missing out on seeing. The eyeglasses have been more difficult to adjust to since I have to wear them all day long. I can't quite figure out how to tilt my head to be able to see up close. Even being on the computer has been difficult. I am still feeling a bit of fatigue, dizziness, and headaches, but they are supposed to clear up in the next week or so. I almost wanted to simply not wear them at all.

For now, I am thankful to be able to see details, vibrant colors, and having overall clarity. It will take time to adjust to wearing glasses, especially with different strengths for distance and close-up vision. I am going to be patient and know that I will be feeling like myself again soon enough. I'm sharing this post today for anyone who might be struggling with their vision and might not even know they are. Do not put off getting an eye exam! We aren't getting any younger.

If you have any advice for me, I'm open to it. Thank you so much for stopping by today.

How To Take Your Life Back From Crohn's Disease

Does it feel as though your Crohn’s disease is taking over your life? Here’s a medical food that could help you take back control.

Crohn's disease is something that affects an estimated 780,000 adults in the United States as of 2015. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which triggers chronic inflammation in a person's digestive tract. It not only results in discomfort at home and going about your daily life, but it can also lead to hospital visits and stays if the symptoms get out of control.

Photo by Anh Nguyen on Unsplash

If you are living with a Crohn’s diagnosis, whether it be a new one or you’ve been living with it for years now, and you feel as though your disease is dictating your life, it may be time to take back control. A product by the name of UltrainflamX Plus 360 could be the perfect item to add to your treatment routine, helping you to get a better handle on your symptoms and reduce the pain and inflammation you are currently suffering from. This medical food offers all kinds of benefits, as we will examine.

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Before we look at the benefits of UltrainflamX Plus 360 it’s important to understand what Crohn’s disease is and how it affects you. As mentioned it is an IBD that can result in severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, fatigue, malnutrition, and weight loss. These can all be extremely uncomfortable symptoms and can prevent a person from going about their regular daily activities and enjoying the foods they love.

While anyone can develop the disease, it is most commonly diagnosed in people between 15-35 years of age. Statistics show that it is more common in females than in males. As for risk factors, those who are smokers are twice as likely to develop it, but family history also plays a part.

How UltrainflamX Plus 360 Can Help

UltraInflamX Plus 360 is a really unique product from Metagenics that is classified as a medical food. It has been specially formulated to offer nutritional support. Its rice protein make-up makes it very easy to digest, which is vital to those with Crohn's disease.

It is ideal for those with IBD, including those with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, as it targets pain and inflammation making the symptoms much less. It also supports healthy cytokine and eicosanoid metabolism thanks to ingredients such as ginger and rosemary. There are even antioxidant benefits, which again anyone can benefit from. Doctors have even recommended the product to patients to deal with various gut and inflammation-related issues.

UltraInflamX Plus 360 is available in a powder form, which can be mixed with your choice of juice or chilled water. Simply add two scoops of the powder to 8ozs of fluid and then shake it/mix it well, until the powder is dissolved. For best results, it is recommended that you have two servings per day.

Start to Get the Relief You Deserve

While there are a number of treatments that a person can use in order to get relief from Crohn’s and get it under control, typically it’s best to use a few in conjunction with each other for maximum results. Adding UltraInflamX Plus 360 to your regime can certainly help to speed those results along.