Monday, August 12, 2013

Double concert

Hey everyone!
 
This weekend I got the privilege of seeing two amazing bands perform (one of which being my absolute favourite band) at the Festival of Friends. The first performer was a band called Airbourne. These guys are an Australian rock band, with some pretty awesome tunes! They are amazing live, and sound exactly like their recorded tracks. In fact, they sound quite a bit like AC DC, to be honest.

Second performer, Theory of a Deadman, my favourite band ever. I saw them perform back in November with my sister, and it was the best concert I've ever been too (not that I'm biased or anything). Although the band doesn't sound the same in concert as their CD, it's not at all bad! Their performance is absolutely awesome, and their different sound in concert is actually quite cool. They were the headliner of the night, and performed 'Bad Girlfriend' as their encore!
 
 
All in all, it was an awesome double concert, and both bands performed an amazing show! Airbourne even got their fans a bit wet with some water at the end!
 
Definitely recommend that you guys all go check out both of these amazing bands!
 
Let me know if there's any other awesome bands that I should give a listen to !!
 
See you all soon

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Back to School FUN!

Hey everyone
 
As most of you probably know, it’s that time of year again...back to school!! Personally, I LOVE school...and my university career has been nothing but amazing. However, I know that a lot of you will probably say “WHAT!  Is she CRAZY?!”....because most of you probably HATE school...wish you never had to go back again. But let’s face it, that’s not really an option (unless you can drop out...which you shouldn’t) and school can be a lot less painful if you just accept it.

So, to get everyone geared up for the school year, whether it’s elementary school, high school, or even college or university, I thought  it would be fun (just like school), to do a bit of a series. This series doesn’t need to stop once school starts either. I want to give you guys some tips that I’ve found helpful in school, talk about the challenges of school, and just general topics, questions or ideas relating to school.

As a fourth year Business student, I’ve had my fair share dealing with school and the challenges that one faces while getting an education. I will try and give you all the best advice, tips and ideas that I can...BUT if you have any questions or ideas for new posts that I haven’t talked about, or that you’re interested in, PLEASE LET ME KNOW!! :D I would love to know what you guys are dealing with in school and during this awesome back to school time!

See you guys soon!
 
 

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

More to come...

Hey all !

Sorry that I've been slacking lately...keeping life pretty busy these days. 

Never fear! I will back soon with plenty more posts for you guys! 

See you soon. 

Monday, June 3, 2013

Breakfast!

Hey guys!
 
Now we're talking, more food!
I thought that if I'm going to start a series, why not start with the first meal of the day...breakfast!
 
Breakfast is often the forgotten meal, which is unfortunate since it's SO great for you. Many people feel that if they skip breakfast, it will help them lose weight. (less in my body, less weight) Well, that's not really the case, nor is it healthy to skip such a crucial meal. Especially not when it's so easy to make something that's quick and delicious. Even if you're rushed in the morning, and figure you have no time to eat, try to ALWAYS make time for breakfast. Here are a few quick, delicious, and healthy ideas for breakfast:
 
#1. Eggs
Eggs are full of protein, which is great for those of you watching your weight. Since protein keeps you satisfied longer, you won't be reaching for a snack, or some junk as quickly. Plus, you can make eggs SO quickly, with little to no effort.
#2. Raspberries (or other antioxidant rich fruits)
Raspberries are high in fiber, which is great because it helps to prevent weight gain. Strawberries, and many other berries are rich in antioxidants, which are great for digestion. Also, you can add raspberries to the next breakfast idea, which is,
#3. Yogurt!
Yogurt was actually ranked in the top 5 foods that promote weight loss. A lot of flavours will add unnecessary sugars to your yogurt, so as mentioned, adding some fresh raspberries to a plain yogurt is a great way to eat healthy and cut sugar.
#4. Oatmeal
Again, oatmeal is high in fiber, which helps to keep you fuller...LONGER! Plus, you can add those raspberries again to make this already tasty meal, even better. Try making the oatmeal yourself, instead of using the instant packages. This will allow you to add any spices that you wish, and in the appropriate quantities.
Lastly, #5. Peanut Butter
You're probably thinking, "Well...does she want me to just dig my spoon into the jar?" Not necessarily, although you certainly could. Peanut butter was also ranked in the top 5 foods to promote weight loss, and is good on it's own, or on some whole grain toast. Peanut butter is also great for a mid morning snack with some banana or apple slices.
 
 
Alright guys, well I hope that you can get some use out of these 5 breakfast ideas. Keep in mind, especially with the fruits, you can pre-clean and separate these into appropriate serving sizes the night before, that way you will save on prep time in the morning.
 
Enjoy your day, and happy eating!
Bye!

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Farmer's Market + Locally Grown

Hey there, 
Jumping into my new series, I'd like to spend some time talking about farmer's markets, locally grown food, and the benefits of these. 
I'm not sure if any of you will be living in the Hamilton area (Ontario that is), but on York Street in downtown there is a Farmer's Market. The market is open:
Tuesdays: 7am-6pm
Thursdays 7am-6pm
Fridays 8am-6pm
Saturdays 6am-6pm

This morning I made a visit to the market to kick off my new series, and to gather more information for you guys about the benefits of buying local. Now, I'm sure a lot of you will say that buying local can be expensive, and to be fair, it can be. However, there are TONS of booths there, and they are all fairly competitively priced. For example, today I got two oval apples, a large bag of seedless green grapes, two pounds of strawberries, a pound of raspberries, and four bananas for $7! That is NOT at all expensive, they were all great quality, and I'm supporting local farmers and booths. 

Now, obviously there are a few benefits to going to a local market. 
#1. Price can sometimes be significantly cheaper than at the grocery store, and they often have end of the day blowout sales, that grocery stores DEFINITELY don't offer. 
#2. The quality is usually exceptional. These booths take great pride in the products they are selling, and their reputation, so they make sure they are providing you with high quality produce. 
#3. Markets often have free range, grain fed products. Today I noticed all the chicken booths had free range, grain fed chicken breasts. If you are a vegetarian, obviously that wouldn't appeal to you, however it is definitely a more conscientious, nature minded choice. You can also buy eggs, and various other chicken products that hold the same label.
#4. Although there were a FEW booths that offered some very tasty treats, most of these booths at the market are offering vegetables, fruit, grains and meat. Shopping at the market not only opens your mind to the wide variety of available fruits and vegetables, but will help you to buy better food for yourself, as there is not a whole lot of selection on junk food!! :D

I hope you guys check out your local markets this week, and let me know if you find any great ones to share!!

Check it soon.
Bye!

Friday, May 31, 2013

Just the beginning.

Hello everyone!
So, as you've probably noticed, this blog is a bit on the random side! This is mainly due to the fact that I'm a human being, and have multiple, often different, interests! 
I have recently become more interested with my physical fitness, what food I eat, and just generally trying to adapt a more positive and healthy lifestyle. 
In doing this, I always find it easier to keep on track if I do it with somebody else. So I thought to myself, and decided that I would like to do a bit of a series, if you will, on my personal path to success. 
I know you're probably thinking..."Man this sounds lame...she's just going to talk about her feelings and stuff." WELL...I thought we could make this a little more interactive. 

This is going to be open to EVERYONE...those of you who are already fit, to those of you who are in progress, and to those of you who haven't even started, or are finding it hard to make such a drastic change in your life. I hope to post something in this series that will appeal to everyone, AND I also hope that you guys will leave me comments about tips you have, or if you've tried any of these ideas. 

This series will include:
-fitness and workout plans I've been using, or tips that I've heard from other people
-food, drinks and meals that I have been eating
-my tips for organizing and sticking with your plans and goals
-and hopefully a bit of an interactive aspect, with some Q&A and some tips from you guys!

So, let me know what you think guys. 
Sorry about all the colour changing...apparently it's one of those days!

See you soon
Bye~~

Friday, May 10, 2013

Rainy Days


Rainy Days
Hello again.

All week the weather has been amazing where I live, so I can't complain entirely. Although, I do have to admit that I'm a little disappointed that it's raining today. Nothing quite like waking up, looking out the window, ready to start your day....RAIN. 
I won't say that I hate rain, because there are occasions when I don't mind it. However, rain does tend to put a damper on any plans you might have, especially those involving the outdoors. 
When it does rain though, don't let it get your mood down. There are plenty of interesting things to do whilst it rains. 
Museums
I understand that not everyone enjoys museums, so before I go any further...not ALL of these suggestions will suit everyone's fancy. These are merely suggestions! 
As I was saying, museums can be a great way to spend those rainy days. First off, you're INSIDE, so that will prevent you from getting wet. Secondly, museums are not a place that most people would go to regularly, leaving you with plenty of options (depending on the size of your city/town). Just think of all the fun, and learning you could have on this rainy day!
Shopping Malls
Personally, I'm not the hugest fan of shopping, or the mall. However, during the rain, you will be indoors. However, if you are short on cash, and really shouldn't be spending any money, this might be a bad idea for you. If you have will power though, this could be a great day for some window shopping. 
Library
Check out your local library! Although it might seem super boring to some people, libraries are increasing updating their selections, and even including magazines and movies. Whilst you're there, grab the latest copy of your favourite magazine, take a seat, and enjoy the peace and quiet. 
Stay home!
I know I know, this was supposed to be a blog about what to DO when it's raining...you don't want to stay home! Yes, I know. However, there are lots of things to do within your own place! Spring is upon us, and for many, spring cleaning is not an option, nor a desire. BUT there's always something about a little rain that makes me want to clean...call me crazy. On top of that, take this opportunity to start some DIY projects that you might have been planning. OR prepare an amazing dinner. If you're stuck inside all day, why not make a delicious meal!?

Hope you guys enjoyed these few little tips of things to do when it's raining. Think of rain in a positive way. 
First, you don't have to water your grass OR your plants...mother nature's got it covered.
Second, your car, clean and looking brand new...minus those rust marks and missing bumper. 
Third, help to prevent droughts, and then there will be no fire bans this May 2-4 :D

Enjoy your rainy day everyone!
BYE.