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/

AdvoCare Spark® Energy Drink

What: AdvoCare Spark® Energy Drink
Why it's my one of my favorite things:  I love to get that boost of energy in the morning, but don't enjoy the taste of coffee. I also don't like the crash of other energy drinks, and soda is high in calories and sugar. This drink gives me that energy boost with no crash. 
Pros: This drink will give you a kick of energy and best of all it is sugar free, only 45 calories and great tasting. Comes in packets or a canister, Grape is my favorite flavor. Includes 21 vitamins, minerals and nutrients.  Unpaid endorsers such as Drew Brees love spark!
Cons: Can only be ordered online.
How: Visit my AdvoCare website! 
 * please note that I enjoy this product thoroughly, however I must inform you that I do distribute the product for a profit. 

Portillio's Hot Dogs and Fries

What: Portillio's Hot Dogs and Fries
Why it's my one of my favorite things:  In my many moves, I have searched and searched for place to buy a "real" Chicago hot dog like Portillio's, however I have been unsuccessful. A real Chicago hot dog includes: poppy seed bun, mustard, tomato, peppers, pickle, onion, and relish. While many have tried by topping a hot dog with all the correct ingredients, the key to the best Chicago style hot dog is the DOG! At Portillo's you will find the dog is perfectly prepared and is slender. The fries are outstanding!  A taste you will not forget!

Pros: Tastes great. Excellent price and filling.
Cons: Mostly in the Chicagoland areas. Dogs can be shipped and they are good, but not the same as the actual dogs at the restaurant.
How: Visit one of the Chicagoland (a few stores in IN and CA) locations or visit http://www.portillos.com/ to find a location near you.

Angels & Demons

What: Angels & Demons, movie starring Tom Hanks, book by Dan Brown. The book was a prequel to the Da Vinci Code, however the movies were released in reverse. 
Why it's my one of my favorite things:  The book is an outstanding read. I recommend the illustrated version so you can see the photos and symbols they are referring to while reading.  The plot is well developed and provides the reader with a great action packed suspense story.  Set in Vatican City the movie provides a glimpse into the Catholic church and the ceremonial process of electing a pope.  This provides not only an interesting story, but a look back historically.


The movie stays true to the story in the book. Tom Hanks does an excellent job in the film.  A very well made movie with all the bells and whistles.
Pros: Great action packed suspense story and very true to the book. 
Cons: For people that are very religious it does show conspiracy in the church and can be offensive to those with strong religious beliefs.
How: Now out on DVD for your renting pleasure. 

Cocktail Rings from Pier One Imports

What: Cocktail rings from Pier One Imports
Why it's my one of my favorite things:  The photos do not do these rings justice, they truly are the BLING! They are really dazzling! My two favorites are the purple and white circular ring, and the pink five tiered ring. 
Pros: Shiny, adjustable, fun and only $12!
Cons: None that I know of!
How: Go to the Pier One website to check them out and find a store near you.