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Top Ten Love Songs (the Grownup Edition)

2012-02-09T14:31:06Z

Ahhh...le sigh...l'amour.

You know, it doesn't really matter how much I go through in life or how old I get, there's still an undying romantic buried deep within me that just won't go away. And so, as Valentine's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the nature of love, the possibility it might reenter my life (what can I say...I'm an optimist), and the way it has manifested itself to me over the decades.

As youngsters, of course, our Valentine's loves are our parents, and that unconditional love is the first we know of this wonderful emotion. And then we grow, and our view of love changes. As a tween and teen, my experience of love was one of longing. Of longing and anticipation, but not of fulfillment. Still: longing mixed with anticipation is a sweet enough emotion for a young woman on the verge of adulthood.

In my twenties I will admit to having allowed some hopelessness to spill over, as my romantic dreams went unfulfilled. Somehow I never managed to outgrow the 'big and brainy' image I'd felt so trapped by in high school. And for the record, by 'big' I mean only that I was not 5'2" and 95 pounds soaking wet. I wasn't hugely tall, and I wasn't by any means fat. I was just...well, I was just right, really. But I was decidedly not tiny, which had seemed to be all any of the boys wanted in a girl in high school. So yes, I did carry that monkey on my back throughout my twenties, and it more than likely contributed to some of the less brilliant decisions I made over the next decade or so.

But now, as I prepare to mark my 42nd Valentine's Day, I find myself finally able to shed it all. And I find myself - perhaps a little strangely - feeling rather sentimental - even ooey-gooey - over this holiday for the first time in, quite simply, ages. But as a newly-single woman in her forties, love has to mean something different to me now than it did to that fourteen year-old wallflower in 1983. From my vantage point, love nowadays is more about the process than the result...more about the journey than the destination. And when it comes to me, I intend to enjoy every step along its heady path with abandon. I intend to live in each moment, regardless of where it may take me. Because it's not about finding "the one", or a "soulmate" or even a spouse or life partner. It's about enjoying another person for all that they have to offer, even if it may just be a warm smile and a friendly word, a dinner and great conversation, or a passionate embrace. Love at 42 won't be about expectations...it'll be about moments.

And so, as I sit and swoon at thoughts of finding (finally) my very own Prince Charming, I have begun to dig up old songs to help me recapture that sense of longing...of anticipation...of the promise of fulfillment.

It has been said that there is a "law of attraction". And that if you send out positive thoughts about your goals, you will achieve them. If this is even a little bit true, then I'm sure to find something wonderful as I listen (over and over and over) to these beautiful love songs.

Oh, and just FYI: other than number one, these are in no particular order...along with each one, I've included my favourite line, and a few thoughts of my own.

10. Come Away With Me -- Norah Jones

I want to walk with you
On a cloudy day
In fields where the yellow grass grows
knee-high

Love this, because there is lots of knee-high yellow grass where I live. I can sooo picture it.

9. When I Fall in Love -- Nat King Cole

When I give my heart it will be completely

Or I'll never give my heart
And the moment I can feel that you feel that way too
Is when I fall in love with you.

It's a bit like one of my favourite quotes (minus the cooking part...but good advice nonetheless): Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all. --Harriet Van Horne

8. Your Song -- Elton John

How wonderful life is while you're in the world

Now doesn't that just say it all? Such a pure and giving love - nothing expected, nothing needed. Just celebrating that the world is better with you in it *sigh*.

7. Wonderful Tonight -- Eric Clapton

I feel wonderful because I see

The love light in your eyes.

Well truth be told, the whole song makes me melt, but that line about "love light in your eyes"? Wow.

6. The Rose -- Bette Midler

It's the heart afraid of breaking
That never learns to dance.
It's the dream afraid of waking
That never takes the chance.

Ah, I see you've stumbled across my new mantra...remember, I am going to be courageous this year! Taking chances...that's the new me.

5. As Time Goes By -- Herman Hupfeld (Sung by Frank Sinatra)

You must remember this
A kiss is still a kiss
A sigh is still a sigh

Apart from being an archetypal love song, this is a reminder to those of us who are returning to all this romance stuff after a long hiatus not to take things too seriously, not to over think it. After all, "a kiss is still a kiss..."

4. At Last -- Etta James

...You smiled, you smiled

And then the spell was cast

Great song. Great artist. Great line. Indeed, I have lived this feeling...

3. Perhaps Love -- John Denver & Placido Domingo

If I should live forever
And all my dreams come true
My memories of love will be of you

Apart from reminding me of my mother, that first and safest of loves, this song overflows with beautiful sentiments about that most beautiful of emotions.

2. In My Life -- The Beatles

Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more

What can I say? It's The Beatles. And although some would argue that Something is the best Beatles love song ever, this one speaks to me more. Plus, I love that sorta baroque piano solo!

1. Take My Breath Away -- Tuck & Patti

My life is yours,
my heart will be,
singing for you eternally

Ahhh...I love absolutely everything about this song. The lyrics are incredible...I mean, who among us has not had that "take my breath away" feeling with a lover? And also: Patti's timbre is right around the same range as mine, so I can easily crank this tune in the car and sing along at the top of my voice. Which I love doing, by the way.

But seriously, when it comes to favourite lines in this song, it's a toss-up for me between the lines above and these below:

It's too good to slip by
Too good to lose
Too good to be there
Just to use

Anyway you slice it, this is definitely my all-time favourite love song. At the moment, it is on high rotation (as in, repeat one) on my iPhone.

How about you? Do you agree with my picks? Disagree with any of them? What might I have forgotten to add to this list?

Dear George...

2012-02-08T17:54:44Z

Hey George,

I hope you get this note inbetween your trips to Cabo and selling your house in Italy because the wrestler doesn't feel comfortable there (fyi - I wouldn't have given a rats ass). It's a hard one for me to write. You have been my guy. I passionately defended you to my friends who said you were just a so-so actor (remember Facts of Life); I can reenact that scene from ER perfectly...you know the one where you save that kid from drowning in the storm drain. Oh Doug Ross - how I wished you to be my ER doc.

Over the last few years - I've watched you jump from Vegas cocktail waitress, to the Italian queen (do you know she's with some guy from Jackass now!!), and now the wrestler. I've shrugged my shoulders and thought - meh, he's biding his time until, like Vince Vaughan, he heads to the Great White North to meet a real woman.

And then I saw The Artist.

And today, I saw Jean interviewed on Leno... put down the wine George and watch this...even you have to admit he oozes it (oh and Debra Messing? You're making me realize how annoying my outloud laugh likely is to everyone around me).

Then I read about him in The Hollywood Reporter - and saw this picture...and well George...it's over. I'm sorry.

Look - it's been fun, (well for me). The fantasies..the plans. Trust me we were going to have a great life together. But for now? I'm heading to the land where the brie is plentiful and the taps overflow with red wine. I'm on a new hunt. Sure he's married. Sure we hardly speak the same language. But nothing worth having is easy right?

So ciao George. And Jean - bonjour mon ami. Voulez vous....

(let the restraint orders be printed... and someone get me a razor..those are some hairy legs)

Valentine's Gift Ideas...Outside the Box

2012-02-08T16:05:47Z

Valentine's Day is almost upon us and if you're like me you're scrambling to find some little gifts to show the ones you love just how much they mean to you.

You could always go the chocolates, roses or lingerie route, but this year, why not think outisde the box (of chocolates).

Chocolates

Sure, we all love chocolate, but aren't most of us still trying to lose those few post- holiday pounds or stick to our "less sweets" new year's resolutions? Why not give your chocolate in a non-edible form? Chocoholics rejoice, for The Body Shop has introduced a line of Chocomania products.

I'm a longtime fan of The Body Shop's body butters. Especially during the dry winter months, this rich moisturizer is like giving my skin a little tropical vacation. This newest scent smells absolutely heavenly, it provides 48 hours of hydration, it's made with 13 Community Fair Trade ingredients...and it's only $18.

The line also includes shower cream, body lotion and a sinfully delicious lip butter.

Just promise me you won't lick the tub when it's empty!

Flowers

Don't be the sucker who pays ten times the amount to have flowers delivered on February 14th. Flowers are beautiful, but they're just as beautiful on February 13 and 15, so bring your cut flowers on any other day.

If you really want deliver the power of flowers, why not do it with pictures?

I recently made a collage of some of my mom's favourite flowers from the cottage.

If I were to print those on a Kodak Picture

Kiosk (they're at almost every Walmart store, and take only minutes), that little taste of summer could get her through these last few months of winter.

The Kodak kiosks are easy, and you can upload your photos from a memory card, a stick or even from your Facebook page! You can make prints, collages, photo books and other novelty items...and they won't wilt after February 14th!

Lingerie

Maybe it's time to think in the box with lingerie. I've long been a fan of Hanky Pankys, and Valentine's Day may be the perfect time to share these amazing thongs with the world (not yours...get them their own!)

How about a little box of Hanky Pankys? This limited edition holiday set is available in lingerie stores now for $54.

Whether you think inside the box or outside, consider your true love and his or her passions. What means the world to them? What would thrill them like nothing else? I'm kind of hoping my Valentine's Day looks something like this...

Happy Vantine's Day Lovers!!!

In the interest of full disclosure, Trend Watch is written by me; all opinions are my own. It is not sponsored. Sometimes I am given free products to review and sometimes I purchase the products all on my own.

This Valentine's Day, Make Chocolate Love

2012-02-08T15:16:01Z

According to numerous studies, women prefer chocolate over...kissing and stuff.

But I say, why not have both? Why can't there be a chocolaty treat that is fast and easy to prepare, sexy to eat, and doesn't leave you feeling so full that you need to keep the Spanx on.

That is why for this Valentine's day, in the small window of time between when my children (reluctantly) fall asleep and my husband and I (involuntarily) fall asleep, we will be enjoying a little Chocolate Love...and kissing and stuff.

Chocolate Love

Adapted from this recipe on the Mr. Christie's Chocolate Wafer Box.

Ingredients

1 box chocolate wafer cookies

1 cup whipping cream

¼ cup finely chopped strawberries (frozen work well)

1 tbsp sugar (you can also use honey or maple syrup)

a few strawberries for garnish

Directions

1. Whip the cream; halfway through the whipping process, add in the chopped berries and sugar to give it a hint of sweetness and colour.

2. Assemble: place one cookie on a flat surface. Add about a tbsp of the whipped cream and then lightly squish another cookie on top of it. Repeat until you have 5-6 layers, ending with a cookie.

3. Using plastic wrap, carefully but tightly wrap the cylinder .

4. Make one more. Remember, this is dessert for two, ONLY! You will have a lot of extra whipped cream for garnish and...whatever.

5. Let rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours so that the wafers can soften up and become cake-like.

6. Serve: Unwrap and place upright on a plate. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and some berries.

7. Enjoy & have a happy, happy Valentine's Day!

NOTHING LIKE THE FIRST CRUSH!

2012-02-08T14:57:52Z

The other day a few of my children brought home lists of the names of all the students in their class with a note about Valentine's day. The note was a reminder to us parents that if we are going to send Valentine cards to school to please make sure we send one for each child so no child is left out. Big sigh from me. Whatever happened to Valentine's day being for secret love notes that were sent to those you had a crush on? I remember the anticipation of getting a sweet valentine from the cute boy who was the best kid in math. I still remember my first crush when I was about seven, which got me thinking about an incident that happened a few months ago.

My daughter was performing in a production, and as always, I take her siblings to watch. Now before you get any crazy ideas I do not take them all at once. I split them up as follows: first night - my two boys who know how to sit and behave, 2nd night - no children, 3rd night - the two brats who do not know how to sit, listen or behave at all. Some children are too young and don't get to go until they are at least 6. That is my rule.

So there we were the first night and my 6 year old asks me if he can get something from the snack bar. Of course the show hasn't started yet but after all, the snack bar is the real main event is it not? So I send him with his older brother to get something.

Here is what they return with: 2 chocolate bars, 2 bag of chips, and 2 orange crush soda's. My eyebrows lifted at the Orange Crush but apparently even though my children are not allowed soda they felt they were allowed it at this special event - besides there was no juice. Of course not - why would there be anything healthy at a show's snack bar? I watch closely as my 6 year old takes a sip of this nasty soda. He looks at me and grins. A huge grin.

The show starts and all is well. At least until about 15 minutes in and suddenly my usually attentive and very quiet 6 year old starts talking - loudly I might add, about nothing important really, yet he has this excited look on his face as he tells me about how he hopes his other two siblings don't behave when they come to see the show, so that they won't be allowed to ever see one of Marie's shows again. WTH?! I tell him to stop talking and watch the show.

Then the swinging feet start, then the rocking, then the talking again.... suddenly I realize what's going on - the damn soda is what is happening! I grab the can out of his hands and am shocked that the can is empty! He drank it all!

I ask him what happened to all the pop. He grins that impish grim again and informs me that it was really good so he drank it all. "Can I have another one?" he asks.

Yep, nothing like that first Crush.

What about you - do you allow your children soda? At what age were they allowed to drink it? Better yet do you remember your first Crush?

Until next time,

Chantel,momof8crazymonkeys

piss me off- love better

2012-02-08T13:27:33Z

Valentine's Day pisses me off the way going to church can. A dozen long stem roses, a cheesy Hallmark card or communion with God does not absolve you of your week long or year long lousy attitude, taking your life for granted or your partner, children, family or friends, health or good fortune.

This is not the one day to show love, be good, be better than yesterday. Can't we do this all year long?

I remember when my dad worked at IBM, there was this 'rule' that there should be no surprises at review time. This applies to all relationships. I should not surprise you with a firing (break up) without having given you some understanding of where attention was needed or make this the only time that I tell you how much I appreciate you (love you, honour you, adore you).

Letting the other person know how they are doing and how you see them is a 365 day a year job.

Not so easy in a marriage with hard wired habits and believing that the other will always be there regardless of how you treat them.

This is not so easy when your children are driving you nuts with their less than perfect ways and their tendency to do that same thing over and over again even though you repeat yourself over and over again to the point that you can barely stand your own company.

Not so easy when your mom still thinks of you as a little girl at times who spills and trips and forgets (even if you do).

Not so easy when you are distracted by an overwhelming amount of tasks and work juxtaposed with an overriding desire to be fun and playful in light of daily crap.

This may sound dark but sometimes I think of the idea that today is the last day with that person. I try to overdo it. I don't want to leave anything unsaid or unshown. I think I would die of regret otherwise.

On my bedroom mirror there is a note in red lipstick - it says simply- LOVE BETTER.

There is no ~~harder~~ higher goal. And it starts with the one you see in the mirror.

My Little Sophistic-8

2012-02-07T21:45:00Z

Oliver got busy turning EIGHT last week (holy crap, didn't he just turn seven?) and the festivities have been drawn out over the last bunch of days, which suits me just fine. Having a birthday time, feels like more fun than just celebrating on a single day anyway. Spread... it... out... yo.

He wanted to have sushi for dinner, and a chocolate cake. And indeed, I did bake him a cake about an hour before the sushi arrived, but he was so full, he asked if we could just have cake tomorrow instead? That's cool with me, my love. (In fact, we only cut and served him the first piece on Saturday morning, TWO DAYS LATER, after breakfast, with a sparkler in it. We're so not hardcore with the timing of things.)

He wanted to have friends over to play video games for the afternoon, with pizza and cake (yes, I baked another one) with ice cream at the end. Of course, my darling, what ever you want.

He: Do you think when my friends come over we could also have chips?

Me: For sure! It's a party!!

He: And if I ask them to use a napkin, can we have... Doritos? *solemn eyes*

Me: *tries not to smirk* Um, sure.

That orange cheese dust? Well, let's just say other-peoples-kids have a tendency to wipe said orange-y fingers on cushions and carpets, and also like to make riotous games of face-planting into white couches, over and over again. So. I tend to avoid serving foods with the cheese dust whenever possible. But I give in for birthday parties. See how much LOVE I have for the children? See??!

He: And can we have salami?

Me: Salami? I think so... yes!

He: And, can we have shrimp cocktail? You know, with that pink sauce for dipping?

He is one hundred percent serious.

Me: *stifles huge laughter* Shrimp cocktail? Um... suuuuuure...

He: But maybe you can make some of those crudites too, like cucumbers and peppers and things like that? But not mushrooms. I don't think anyone likes those. Just regular vegetables.

Me: Yes, well... no mushrooms, just the regular stuff... anything else?

He: Do you think we can have juice boxes? I think maybe glasses of juice is not such a good idea. Drinks could spill.

Me: Right. That's smart.

He: And can we get fruit punch ones? Oscar likes fruit punch.

Me: *smiling* I'll look for some.

He: And maybe lemonade too. It's nice to have some choices.

Me: Choices are good! I'll see what I can find, okay?

He: Okay. *thinks* That's all.

Me: *counts off on fingers* So, it's chips, shrimp cocktail with crutides and dip, salami, fruit punch and lemonade... is that right?

He: And Doritos.

Me: Yes, right.

He: Maybe we should make a list.

Me: Yes, maybe we should.

And we did make a list. And we served everything he wanted, only I didn't see lemonade at the store when I shopped, and we had to settle for apple-grape juice instead of fruit punch *shakes angry fist at crappy supermarket suppliers* but nobody seemed to mind. It was a great little party, planned by my sophisticated little dude. Colin Cowie, WATCH OUT!!

He turned EIGHT last Thursday. When he got home from school, he said, "I think I grew."

I said, "I know you did."

Oh, my beautiful boy...

He is can be fairly quiet and serious, but man, the kid's laugh is still completely infectious... just like when he was a baby. He's kind of shy, but really, he doesn't talk if he has nothing to say - he's selective too. (Unlike his sister, who's become the most talkingest child you've ever heard... ) It's because he's usually such a thoughtful child that he can break my heart in a moment of offhandedness - fortunately, these are rarities. I expect a lot of him... I have to remind myself that he's still small yet. He's still learning about the world. He works hard at being a good boy, and really shows. It radiates.

He's sweet. He's smart. He's polite. He's brave. He's kind. He's ours.

And, he's the world's.

Happy birthday, my lovely boy, my heart. Oliver Chase, you make us so very proud!!

PS - I love catching you dancing when you think no one is looking. Maybe one day, you'll do it out loud...

The Natural Path

2012-02-07T21:06:17Z

I grew up in the prairies eating Shake 'n' Bake and Kraft Dinner for supper, downing penicillin for my ails, and intravenously injecting Diet Coke into my veins when the urge hit.

When I moved out west my family joked that it wouldn't take long before I became a hippie, like all the other shade-grown, fair-trade vegans out here.

I laughed, but after a decade in the west, I can see that their prophesy had some validity to it. It's taken a while, and I am nowhere NEAR the hippie that many of my friends are, but I have definitely taken steps in that direction in regards to the food we eat, what we do to treat problems with our bodies, and how we aim to live. I am now a near-vegetarian, our freezer is filled with local game and frozen produce from our garden, I use (mainly) green cleaning products, and seek the help of massage therapy and chiropractic care before popping a pain-killer.

I know there are still countless ways I could live a more natural lifestyle (stop drinking Diet Coke, get rid of those carcinogenic dryer sheets, stop using antiperspirant, etc.) but the way I look at it is this: if in ten years I have made this many changes, think of where I will be in another ten years. Years I know will be filled with continued education about environmental issues, nutritional knowledge and inspiration from others living a clean life.

Most recently, I decided to take my three year-old daughter to see a Naturopathic Doctor for her night terrors. It was my first visit in a Wellness Center and I didn't really know what to expect. The doctor we saw was really great and recommended a few supplements she thought would help (Magnesium Citrate, Theanine, and a few splashes of Bach Rescue Remedy). Desperate for relief, I bought everything she mentioned, not sure if I was shelling out a wad of dough for snake oil. But after three weeks, Karenna has only had (*knock on wood*) one night terror, and it was very mild compared to what we had been dealing with. Snake oil? Maybe. But I'll take another bottle, please!

Are there any natural choices you regularly make now that you never thought would be important to you? Are there things you would aspire to do (go vegan, give up gluten, become a yogi, stash some chickens in your backyard) but feel intimidated about the commitment it would take to get there? One website I find particularly wonderful is Oh She Glows. Tonnes of delicious recipes, honest stories of the author's journey to health, and beautiful photographs.

Here's to the little steps we take that bring us closer to where we want to be!

A Love Letter from the Four Seasons

2012-02-07T19:39:24Z

Have you ever spent time in a Four Seasons Hotel? Now is the time. The iconic Four Seasons Toronto will be transitioning to the new home just down the street soon.

So many incredible memories were made and great times enjoyed at this hotel's current location. I've been to fundraisers and events over the past few years and have met up with friends in the Avenue Bar at night or in the afternoons as a quiet spot to write. Part of me is sad that the old location is closing but excited to see what the new hotel will be like!

Valentine's Day is a coming up. If you're in search of something to do that's maybe more unique, you may be interested in this exhibit at the Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto. This is on our "must see" list in the next couple of weeks.

The Four Seasons Hotel is delivering a "A Love Letter to Toronto" - soooo perfect for February! Today, an exhibition by prominent photo journalist, TOM SANDLER will be unveiled in the Avenue Bar. Sandler has been capturing images at events at the Hotel and around the city for the past 25 years of celebrities, dignitaries and socialites alike. From TIFF to fundraisers to cultural events, his lens has featured some of the most glamorous. This spectacular look through his lens is a celebration of some the Hotel's most historical moments. The photo exhibit will run until March 23rd.

There's just something soooo romantic about the Four Seasons. It's classy, inviting and intimate without any attitude. It's a great place for celebrations with friends and family.

Thank you, Four Seasons for all the very special memories! I am looking forward to many more beautiful years to come!

How about you? Do you have any great memories from this hotel?

Happy Valentine's Day!

BTW... You may be interested in a Valentine's Dinner at the STUDIO CAFE in the Hotel. They have created a special 3 course prix fixe menu for $49 per person. But make reservations!

The Four Seasons Hotel is located at 21 Avenue Road, Toronto. 416-964-0411

(It is scheduled to open this summer at the new location at 60 Yorkville Avenue)

Brave New World

2012-02-07T17:49:21Z

The times they are a changin'.

Big Time.

Should we as a society be able to decide who is fit to be a parent? I'm sure your first instinct is to say no. That it's not even possible to do so. And if it were, it would be immoral or unethical.

But it is possible, at least partially. Thanks to fertility treatments.

I just read this article, Who Decides The Makings of a Modern Family?, in the National Post.

The article examines how fertility treatment is changing the face of the family.

It is fairly widely accepted, and there is evidence, that gay and lesbian parents are equally good or bad at parenting as heterosexual parents.

Other cases are not so clear cut. Here are some examples from the article:

Physically or mentally disabled people
Older people, especially mid-fifties and up
People with serious mental illnesses or issues such as psychopaths and sociopaths
Transexuals - yes there is a case mentioned in the article
People who are depressed or grieving at the time they seek treatment
Practising addicts

Some cases may seem more cut and dried than others. For example, if a person comes in drunk or stoned one obviously wouldn't treat them - but what about when they come back sober, how would one know if they are truly committed to sobriety?

Anyone can go out and have sex and get pregnant, we don't have any control over that (forced sterilization is another topic all together). We can stop addicts or people who are mentally disabled or ill from doing that.

But we can choose not to treat their infertility. The question is, should we?

Sherry Levitan, a lawyer who specializes in fertility cases, says trying to judge who will make a good parent is fraught with peril.

I would agree with that. Our biases are very strong and would definitely influence our decisions. For example, many educated people may thing that a university degree and good job is important, and maybe some experience, like over 28, etc. They make think that a young couple who work in a factory will be lesser parents than the first group. Of course that is a ridiculous notion. The first family may be able to buy more but things do not make a good parent. The younger couple may invest more time in their children.

Who knows. And that is the point. How can we know where to draw the line?

Dr. Librach of the McGill Reproductive Centre feels that people who "are willing to invest their resources and bear what are often the difficulties and frustrations of fertility treatment have likely given the subject of parenthood considerable thought, and are more apt than most parents to value the resulting children".

I had IVF but I do not think I value my children more than other parents do.

I haven't even addressed the multiples issue. Or the fact that Canada doesn't have regulations regarding fertility treatment.

What a topic.

What do you think?

Week 3: The Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! Last Week to Vote to Win!

2012-02-07T14:52:15Z

Welcome to the final week of the Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! At the end of this week we will crown the Top Citrus Chef. Will it be Cayla, or Carol? Read both Cayla and Carol's recipe reviews, compare the pictures, and then let us know whose dish looked best!  

During cold and flu season, eating right is essential! Florida Citrus is an easy and delicious way to help you get your 7-10 servings of fruit and vegetables per day. Comment below and share how you pamper yourself to help feel better when you're under the weather for your first second chance to win a $250 WaySpa gift certificate and products from The Body Shop courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus.To enter your third ballot in the contest share how you pamper yourself to help feel better . For another ballot, upload your own citrus-infused recipe the Florida Citrus Feel Better Recipe Swap.

Visit the Florida: Feel Better facebook page for more tips, recipes & daily smiles from the growers of Florida Citrus.

This week's recipe is: Raspberry Citrus Bars

This bright refreshing dessert can be served casually as a bar or dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream and mint for any special guests.

Makes 24 bars

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) all purpose flour
1/4 cup (50 mL) granulated sugar
2 tbsp (25 mL) cornstarch
3/4 cup (175 mL) butter, softened
2 cups (500 mL) fresh raspberries

Citrus Filling:
5 egg yolks
3/4 cup (175 mL) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (50 mL) all purpose flour
1 1/3 cups (325 mL) 35% whipping cream
3/4 cup (175 mL) Florida orange juice
3/4 cup (175 mL) Florida grapefruit juice
1 tbsp grated grapefruit rind
Whipped cream for garnish
Grated Florida grapefruit rind and fresh mint leaves for garnish

Directions:
1. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar and cornstarch.
2. With fingers work in butter until mixture clumps together.
3. With floured hands, press dough evenly into parchment paper lined 13 x 9 inch (3 L) baking pan.
4. Bake in 350 F oven for about 25 minutes or until firm to the touch and edges are light golden.
5. Let cool slightly and sprinkle with raspberries.

Citrus Filling:
1. In bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar and flour until smooth; set aside.
2. In saucepan, heat cream, orange and grapefruit juices and grapefruit rind over medium heat until bubbles start forming around edge.
3. Gently pour some of the cream mixture into egg yolk mixture and whisk to smoothen and combine.
4. Pour in remaining cream mixture and whisk until well combined.
5. Pour back into saucepan and return to medium heat.
6. Cook, whisking gently for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
7. Pour over raspberries and gently shake pan to even out and remove air bubbles.
8. Cover surface directly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours or until firm and set.
9.Cut into bars to serve.

Tip: Whip cream and dollop onto bar and garnish with grapefruit rind and fresh mint for an extra special treat.

Recipe provided courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus.

See what our Chef #1, Cayla of The UrbanMoms Kitchen, had to say:

On the night I had planned on making the Citrus Squares, there was nothing I felt like doing less than baking. It had been the kind of day when you leave before the sun comes up and don't come home until after dark. The kind of day where you go to work, drive the kids everywhere, and then go to work some more. The kind of day that had not one second of "me" time.

When work was finally done, I felt like doing nothing more than crawling into bed. But then I heard a little voice, "Mommy, when are we making the squares?"

"Now." I sighed as I started to assemble the ingredients. I don't know if it was the smell of the grapefruit zest or the fun we had squishing butter between our fingers, but within minutes, the smile had returned to my face.

Between the buttery crust and the rich filling, these bars are decadent! But after a week of hard work, a few great workouts and lots of healthy eating, I felt I deserved a treat. Not only that, I didn't have to work for it. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to prepare. So fast and easy, in fact, that I almost didn't have enough time for the crust to cool before topping it with the filling before it set.

Overall, Maya and I had a great time making this dessert...even if it was a bit of a comedy of errors. We forgot to put the parchment down under the crust, we spilled grapefruit juice all over the kitchen, and when it came time to serve, almost dropped the entire thing on the floor. But, really, who cares? Especially when being imperfect is so much fun!

After (im)patiently waiting for the squares to cool, here's what the crew had to say about them:

Maya: So yummy! I love the raspberries!

Billy: Can I have more? I like that there's fruit, which is healthy, but it doesn't taste healthy.

Husband: Wow! They're sweet, but not too sweet. Sometimes this kind of thing is too sweet.

Best friend (and master baker): It tastes really good. Like a lemon square except the citrus taste is more complex. The filling is really rich, almost like custard. These would be really good baked as a tart.

These bars were a little ray of sunshine on a dreary day. They were a great reminder that sometimes it's ok to spill grapefruit juice on the floor, get flour on your nose and not worry when your dessert doesn't look as pretty as it was supposed to. Because, man, does it taste good!

See what our Chef #2, Carol, UrbanMoms staffer, had to say:
Are you a dessert fan? Some, like my husband, are chips and nut lovers. Others prefer cheese and crackers. I must admit that there is nothing I love more than a delicious dessert. While I do my best to prepare well-balanced, healthy meals I still enjoy including the occasional treat. Small indulgences are important to our overall health.

My weeks can get hectic, running the kids around to their sport practices, extra curricular activities, and my own appointments. Every week I try to find ways to regroup and recharge. Date night with my husband is one of my favourite ways to recharge. When I have even less time I enjoy taking a bath, or reading a great book. I also love to bake and find it to be a great stress reliever. Finding new and exciting recipes to prepare is so much fun. You should see the stack of recipe books I have in my kitchen.

I was thrilled when the Florida Department of Citrus asked me to try out their Raspberry Citrus Bars recipe. I found myself with another intriguing recipe that combined the unique flavours of grapefruit and fresh raspberries.

Well let me tell you that these bars are now one of my new favourites! What makes this recipe so interesting is the addition of grapefruit. I love serving my guests desserts that stand out and are a departure from the expected. This recipe will definitely create a long-lasting impression with your friends and family. No need to be intimidated by this recipe as it has simple and easy to follow steps. The grapefruit flavour nicely offsets the sweetness of the filling. The shortbread base was absolutely divine. My husband and daughter absolutely loved this dessert. They both really enjoyed the creamy rich filling and loved the addition of the fresh raspberries.

Here is what they said:

Husband: Yum! Love the creamy centre and crunchy base. The squares have a really great taste, not too sweet and I especially love the fresh raspberries.

Carol: The recipe makes a large batch of squares, the perfect amount for a party. It's a great dessert to bring to a friend's house. They transport well and stay fresh and delicious in the fridge. My family thought they tasted just as great on day 1 as day 3.

Nicky: The squares are really gooey and yummy.

Rachel: I love the crust! They taste a lot like lemon squares, only better.

So don't forget to take time out to pamper yourself and include small indulgences weekly in your life.

NOW IT'S YOUR TURN! VOTE AND COMMENT BELOW.

TO ENTER THE CONTEST share how you pamper yourself to help feel better when you're under the weather. For an additional ballot add your favourite citrus recipes to the Florida Citrus Feel Better Recipe Swap application. The new "easy-upload" feature allows you to share your recipe with ease.

(The content on this post is sponsored by Florida Department of Citrus. Click here for more information)

Click here for contest Rules and Regulations.

On Saying Goodbye To Your Internets.

2012-02-07T14:15:00Z

When I was about fifteen years old, a kid I went to school with committed suicide. I didn't know that kid terribly well - we weren't in the same year, so we didn't share the same friends. But besides the dreadful thoughts and feelings that hang in the air around suicide, there's a sadness that lingers. You've lost one of your own. Though I didn't really know this kid, we were of the same world which just felt so sad. And disheartening. And confusing to feel so, when I didn't even have much of connection to this person in the first place.

In many ways, I liken my connections through social media and the internet to something similar to high school. Not the drama parts (though angsty feelings can be similar too) but it is a wide web of interconnections inside a big bubble. You're bound to be closer to some people than others, because of your age and your common interests, or because of your stage of life. And some connections are just stronger than others.

But we all want each other to be well.

Susan Neibur wrote a blog about her struggles with cancer - a battle she lost yesterday - leaving behind her husband and two young boys. I didn't know Susan - and like many of my ~~imaginary~~ internet friends, we'd never had the pleasure of meeting. But, by all accounts, she was one wonderful woman - terribly smart (a scientist, even!) and kind, and loving, and funny! And wonderful! And you really get a sense of her state of grace though her words, as she described life with this terrible, fatal disease.

I didn't read her blog regularly - I would catch up a little now and again, but I didn't know her. It was sad information to take in, which is never comfortable. Someone close in age to me, with a loving husband, and children close in age to my own... it all feels too much, sometimes. Too sad. I seldom made comments on her posts, especially after reading what some of my other Internets would have to offer - the ones that were close to her - which sometimes made me feel like I was crashing a private party. But that's okay - such is the way of the Internet sometimes.

What buoys the sadness a little, is seeing my Internets' outpouring of all their love, no matter how well they knew Susan or didn't. Because we're all connected some how. The love and support is completely real.

Cancer is everywhere. There are other Internets fighting battles in their corners of the universe right now... some I'm familiar with... others, I am not. Recently, this wonderful video was made by some excellent, loving Internets (I "know" a few of these singers) for another Internet (one I do not know well) who is fighting cancer right now. It came to me through a few different sources... I encourage you to have a look at this uplifting bit of love, which is always good for the soul. Really. Go on and look.

There isn't time enough to read every single blog every day. You can't know everyone in the world in an intimate way. But, it never feels good to feel like you've lost someone in your sphere - especially the good, positive souls, like Susan. She was a bright, lovely woman, and she's gone too soon. I weep for her family... may she rest, at last.

Cancer, I kick you in the nads really hard today.

Super Bowl Fall Out!

2012-02-07T13:20:27Z

Really, can we just get through a Super Bowl half-time show without any issues?

Unless you've been living under a rock - actually not sure that would stop it - you've heard that Madonna played the half-time show at the game. And you know what? I'm not a Madonna fan at all - but I thought she did a great job (except for the weird push up thing with LMFAO). She sang her new single with Niki Minaj and MIA. And *gasp*, brace yourself, MIA gave the screen the finger? No! How horrible! Hello!! Who CARES! Are you telling me that was more offensive than all the crotch shots? Worse than Cee-Lo's sparkly kimono? Lighten up Americans - lighten the hell up. (she's paying some massive fine apparently).

The other 'controversy'? After the game, Gisele Bundchen, wife of ~~hottest~~ Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was filmed blaming the loss on the receivers. You can see the video here. Whoa. Again, like with Madonna, I'm not a Gisele fan. Her past comments on breastfeeding and motherhood annoy the crap out of me. BUT - I'm going to support her on this one. It's her husband and dome doofus is yelling at her and she stood up for her man. Was it the right thing to say? No probably not. Okay for sure not. But the beating she is taking in the press for this is a little bit insane. What do you think? Stand by your man or keep your comments to yourself?

It's Junior Kindergarten...What Happens at University!?

2012-02-07T12:50:17Z

Let me start this way.... I didn't put this much thought into what University I'd go to.

It's Junior Kindergarten registration time people! And from the clusters of pale looking parents, deep in conversation - talking strategy, timing and in a state of panic - you would think we were all coaching in the Super Bowl.

I was aware of many, many things when I became a parent. This I had no idea about. French Immersion? Before and after school care? Out of region transfers? Full v half? It was easier choosing his freaking name for godsakes.

My issue is this - my daycare services one school, but I'm out of region and they actually laughed when I brought in my application. My home school? Well I've moved from 56th to 18th on the daycare waiting list so you know, maybe there will be a mass exodus and a million frogs will drop from the sky, and he'll get a spot in there for September.

I'm making light of it but I'm actually stressing. I'm uber organized. I'm not good at wait and see and hope for the best. But for once, I'm going to try. Maybe things will all just fall into place.

The out of region school I want...well, they forgot to erase my registration appointment from the calendar and called to confirm it yesterday, I'm already practicing..."Oh, you're NOT accepting out of region kids? I didn't know. Maybe we could just do the registration now though..in case one spot opens up??" CUE TEARS.

Are you in this kindergarten dilemma or is this an oddity reserved for my neighbourhood! How did you handle it??

Kashi Toasted Cinnamon Crisp Cereal

2012-02-07T04:51:26Z

I'm a big fan of cereal. Not only can it be the perfect breakfast meal (any meal that my kids can assemble, consume and clean up is perfect in my book...the fact that it's at all nutritional is a bonus), but it's also great for lunch, after school snack and the ideal antidote to the popular "but I'm hungry" bedtime stall.

Recently I've been hooked on Kashi's new Toasted Cinnamon Crisp Cereal.

I've long been a fan of Kashi products. Their foods are made with wholesome, natural ingredients, including seven grains, but they've got lots of flavour and don't cost an arm and a leg.

The new cereal, launched last month in Canada, is no exception.

All of the kids approved of the cereal taste, and I really enjoyed it too. I lined up the nutritional information labels and was pleased to find that it fared as well as the cereals they've been eating, and much higher in protein and fibre.

The next time you're perusing the cereal aisle looking for a little inspiration, check out the new Kashi products.