Stieg Larsson Series

What: The Stieg Larsson three book series. The series stars with The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, then The Girl That Plays with Fire, and finally The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest.

Why it's my one of my favorite things: The books tell the story of a interesting computer hacker girl with a shady past and a journalist (amongst many other characters). As the main characters find themselves in many tricky situations the author guides the reader through a series of complex stories about the character's past. The books are filled with crimes against humanity, government cover-up's and assorted other social issues with a hit of a love story.  A page turner from start to finish.

Cons: The author finished the three books prior to having a fatal heart attack, there was the start of a fourth book (200 pages) that will not be published.  So there will only be three books in the series, no more from this author.
How: You can order the books from Amazon or your local book stores.

Girls on the Run

What: Girls on the Run is a life changing learning program for girls ages 8-11. The program is designed to increase physical activity and emotional health by providing girls with the tools to make healthy decisions and form healthy self-images.  The final portion of the program is the 5k, where the girls are paired with a running buddy and complete the 3.1 mile race! Three 24-lesson curriculums teach life skills through group processing, running games and workouts. The three-part curriculum is taught by certified Girls on the Run® coaches and includes understanding ourselves, valuing teamwork and understanding how we connect with and shape the world at large. Girls choose and conduct a community service project.  At each season’s conclusion, the girls complete a 5k running event as a group.


Why it's my one of my favorite things: The program is very inspirational for both the girls and the running buddies. Academic evaluations of the program show a statistically significant improvement in body image, eating attitudes and self-esteem. This program is proven, it is fun, and makes a difference in young girls lives. Evidence also indicates an improved sense of identity and an increasingly active lifestyle for program participants. 
Pros: The opportunity to make a difference in a young girls life. Short time commitment. Proven results with the program. Fun and inspiring.

Cons: The organization is growing, but chapters are not located everywhere. Also, as a running buddy you really are not connected with the girl until the race day.
How: Visit http://www.girlsontherun.org/ to find a local chapter near you. Then sign up as a running buddy, or raise money for GOTR and do an event yourself with the Soul Mates program.

*Information from http://www.girlsontherun.org

Gentle Leader Headcollar for Dogs

What: Gentle Leader Headcollar


Why it's my one of my favorite things: After a few months of being frustrated with my dog for pulling me around, I decided to try the gentle leader. Some have called it the 10 minute miracle, I agree. In the first few minutes, I knew that the choke collar and harness were history. 

Pros: The gentle leader is humane, it works on leverage. Does not cause pain. When the dog tries to pull the harness simply tucks the dogs nose (without you jerking or pulling) and if they continue eventually their head will just turn towards the leader. It is NOT a muzzle, the dog can open their mouth. The collar works on a reward system, if they pull it corrects their head position, if they don't pull they are on a loose leash.

Cons: Some dogs try to get it off by pawing at their nose and this is frustrating at first. Also the bottom clip is difficult to adjust, however once adjusted then it is set.

How: Visit your local petstore or visit:
http://www.buygentleleader.com/View.aspx?page=dogs/products/behavior/gentleleader/description

Flavors of Louisiana Restaurant

What: Flavors of Louisiana Restaurant


Why it's my one of my favorite things: While visiting with a friend, I had the pleasure of dining at this great little treasure! The food is amazing for a great price. I had the daily special Crab Landry, it was amazing! Try them out, you won't be disappointed.

Pros: Great food, great price. A variety of menu items. All with a good cajun flair! Great for all those LSU fans as well! Owned by a female..

Cons: The resturant is a little hard to locate, it shares a parking lot with Lifetime Fitness.  Also there is limited seating in the resturant and is quite busy at lunch.  And one thing, it is not close enough to my house :(

How: Visit the resturant at 13025 W. Rancho Santa Fe, Suite 103B, Avondale, AZ 85323  http://www.flavorsoflouisianacajun.com/