In late August, my husband and I took a road trip to beautiful West Virginia for a long weekend. This is something that had been on my wish list for a while. Our daughter visited the New River Gorge area in Fayetteville, W.V. a few times and knew we would love it, so on her suggestion we decided to go. I was surprised to learn that it's not that far away - only about a 4-hour drive from our home Continue Reading
RECIPE: Easy honey baked chicken
We eat a lot of chicken at my house. It's a wonderful source of protein, it's affordable, and there are endless ways to prepare it. Here's a super simple recipe that's become one of my go-to's when I want a hot, delicious meal without spending much time in the kitchen. This recipe works for any cut of chicken, whether bone-in, boneless or skinless. My favorite way to prepare it, Continue Reading
Exercises for people who hate to work out: 18 fun ideas to get moving
Not a gym person? Not excited by the idea of exercise in general? In this post on the Blue Cross NC blog, I share ideas to get yourself moving without feeling like you're doing traditional exercise. You might even have some fun! Read story Sponsored by Blue Cross NC Continue Reading
RECIPE: Easy moist, delicious cornbread (regular + gluten free)
Making cornbread is a much-loved tradition in kitchens across the United States, especially in the south and southwest. Cornbread has its origins in Native American cuisine. It was also popular during the Civil War because it could be made inexpensively. While everyone knows cornbread is a delicious addition to any meal, surprisingly it also has some redeeming qualities in terms of nutrition. Continue Reading
Do you actually need to walk 10,000 steps a day?
Do you have to walk 10,000 steps a day for better health and fitness? Is there any evidence that 10,000 should be the default, and where did that come from? You're going to be surprised at the answer. See my post on the Blue Cross NC blog for the scoop! Read story here Sponsored by Blue Cross NC Continue Reading
Easy DIY: How to make your own vanilla extract
Homemade vanilla extract is a perfect DIY holiday gift, and very easy to make. It's only two ingredients! Even if you don't need it for gifts, there are several good reasons for making your own vanilla extract: Homemade vanilla extract costs much less than most store-bought non-artificial varieties It has a long (virtually indefinite) shelf life It's simple to make There are no Continue Reading