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Author Archives: kejohns323

Toast Pop Travels: The Pandorica

Posted on August 24, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Food .

The pandorical 1Brace yourselves! Because the subject of this travel post takes you through time and space!

Well, sort of…and as far as I know, none of the ToastPop staff has ever been here, but us Whovian staff would surely be thrilled to hit it up sometime! The Pandorica is a brand new Doctor Who-themed restaurant in Beacon, New York that just opened in July. While The Pandorica as known in the show meant no good for the universe, the eatery of the same name is in a good way the most interesting thing to have graced the Whovian universe (after the season eight premiere this weekend)! A Nerdist review that first covered the location says that the décor expresses many odes to theThe Pandorica show: Van Gogh’s “Exploding TARDIS” painting hangs in the dining room, it has a TARDIS restroom and a TARDIS mural, the menus are outfitted with the look of the blue box, and even some of the selections themselves are inspired by and named for references from the shows (Although the “fish fingers” are actually French toast sticks, served with with custard!).

My travels this summer have led me to some low-key, casual restaurants, and this imaginary/virtual trip to The Pandorica is not much different in atmosphere. This place offers live musical entertainment, and even cosplay events from time to time! And its great for Whovians of any age! Not only does the Pandorica gain ToastPop’s approval, but the newest faces of Doctor Who, Peter Capaldi, Jenna Louise-Colman, and Steven Moffat, visited recently and loved it!

 

Plan your trip to Beacon and The Pandorica!

The Pandorica Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Pandorica/819377074747184?sk=timeline&ref=page_internal

find directions and business hours, and what’s going on

“Doctor Who’s Cast Reacts to New York’s Newest Doctor Who-Themed Café” (article): http://www.grubstreet.com/2014/08/doctor-who-cast-peter-capaldi.html

What did the stars have to say about The Pandorica?

Beacon city website: http://www.beacononhudson.com/

Take your own virtual trip to Beacon and see it for yourself!

Beacon, NY Trip Advisor page: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g47291-Beacon_New_York-Vacations.html

Plan a real trip to town through Trip Advisor. Check out what accommodations and other attractions Beacon has to offer, and what others have said about them. 

A scene from “The Pandorica Opens” (season 5, ep. 12): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ecycHAZtaM

Watch an iconic moment from Doctor Who surrounding the restauraunt’s namesake. Shared here for the fun of it. 

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Tags: cosplay, Doctor Who, entertainment, fish fingers, Food, fun, Jenna Louise-Colman, live, Nerdist, new, New York, NY, Peter Capaldi, restaurant, Steven Moffat, TARDIS, The Doctor, the Pandorica, theme, Van Gogh, Whovians .

A Nonwhovian’s Guide to Doctor Who

Posted on August 9, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Pop Culture .

A Nonwhovian's Guide to Doctor WhoDoctor Who. If you’re not a “Whovian”, a legitimate term for fans of the television show, there may be a pretty good chance you at least know a few who are. Or maybe you’ve heard something about or relating to the show, and didn’t know much about it. If the passing conversations have piqued your interest, or if you have some trouble understanding just what Doctor Who is all about, it is my hope with this article that your curiosity is satisfied and your confusion is cleared. Doctor Who is a sci-fi, action and mystery based television show produced by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). It’s one of the biggest shows out of Britain, claiming about fifty years of existence, and is one of the longest-running tv shows to be produced as a result. It is extremely popular among its genre, having a cult following, and even considered a staple to British pop culture.

The Doctor

A Nonwhovian's Guide to Doctor Who

The many faces of the Doctor

Perhaps the best way to expound upon the show itself is to start with its central-most character, the show’s namesake, but he is simply known as “the Doctor”. He is an alien who seeks and finds other alien and monsters, then attempts to maintain peace between the antagonistic creatures and humans of the earth race. Something special and important to know about the show is that the majority of the Doctor’s adventures tend to transcend time and space.  Episodes and stories can gravitate to life and times within history or among much distant future centuries. Other fantastic ideas of other worlds, dimensions, and universes are sometimes explored as well. The stories and general plotline of Doctor Who are also driven by exploring the character of the Doctor himself. The show’s title is meant to invoke a sense of mystery about its main character. For instance, the Doctor supposedly has a legitimate name, though it is not known to anyone. As of current episodes, it is not clear why the Doctor prefers his alias to his real name, except that there is some personal choice in being called what he is called. There are but some brief details of the Doctor’s background: he is nine hundred to a thousand years in age. He calls himself a time lord from the fictitious planet, Gallifrey. Gallifrey was supposedly lost in a huge war against his race’s arch enemy, The Daleks, and it is entertained that the Doctor has something to do with the alleged extinction of the planet. Teasers of the show’s newest season (season eight) question whether the Doctor is a good man, likely in light of all the Doctor’s mystery and controversy.

Season Eight teaser. Premieres August 23rd

Season Eight teaser. Premieres August 23rd

Another important driver of the Doctor Who stories is the incident of regeneration. This is how actors have transitioned

The Eighth Doctor regenerating

The Eighth Doctor regenerating

through the role of the Doctor and how many seasons and stories have begun and ended. Each “new Doctor” initiates a new chapter in the life of the show. To date, the Doctor has regenerated twelve times, or twelve different actors have held the role. Each has brought something unique to the character and the show overall. Not every season begins with a new Doctor, but after reading this article, I think you could start with just about any season that begins with a new Doctor if you wanted a good place to start watching. Just be aware that the story lines will likely build from anything from previous seasons. To give you an idea on some of the cult culture surrounding the show, fans have a “favorite Doctor”, or a particular actor of the role whom they favor. When Whovians meet for the first time, they may ask, “Who is your Doctor?”, which inquires upon one’s favorite portrayal of the Doctor’s role. The specific Doctor may then be referred to by a cardinal number in relation to their place in the series (most may favor the ninth, tenth, or eleventh Doctors for example), or sometimes the specific Doctor may be referred to by the actor’s name (for instance, my Doctor is the Matt Smith Doctor). Additionally, just about anything relating to the first eight Doctors are considered to be part of the classic era of the show. The ninth Doctor and beyond are a part of the show’s revival after nearly sixteen years off the air.

Companions

The Doctor's Companions

The Doctor’s Companions

The Doctor usually doesn’t travel through time and space alone. Whovians recognize anyone who travels with him as companions (or friends or assistants on some occasions). His companions, traditionally human, are vital to the show in that they can be the source for understanding the Doctor’s world. In other words, an “audience surrogate” who often poses questions about time, space, and the situations at hand for the Doctor to explain. Every companion is unique and plays considerable roles in the stories as well as the Doctor’s life. Some stories relate how the Doctor and companion meet or part ways. In some episodes they may be a victim of some sort or a damsel in distress figure, or they play a significant part in the heroic efforts against the antagonists. The companions become his best friends, some are romantic interests, and a few are even his family.

 

The TARDIS

The Doctor travels everywhere in his spaceship known as the TARDIS (an acronym for “time and relative dimension in space”). The TARDIS is iconic in that it looks like a mere police box from the outside, but you step within and it is

The TARDIS

The TARDIS

anything but a cramped compartment. In other words, it’s bigger on the inside, transcending and defying spatial laws as much as the Doctor does the laws of time. The Doctor and his companions are most often seen in the control room, from where the TARDIS is operated, yet the “bigger on the inside” idea is also supposed to hint at the TARDIS having an indefinite number of corridors and rooms. References within the show have alluded to the presence of a swimming pool, a library, an attic and other storage, an observatory, along with many other special rooms. At the same time, there is a mysterious idea to the TARDIS that there really is no limit to what it has, and it changes almost as often as the Doctor does. There are also some references to the TARDIS being an outdated, unreliable piece of machinery stolen from the Doctor’s home planet. It never seems to take him where he wants to go, but it always takes him to where he needs to go–typically right to the doorstep of conflict. And its nonetheless loved to the extent of being the show’s trademark symbol.

Antagonists and Enemies

Cybermen (left), Daleks (center), and some other monsters

Cybermen (left), Daleks (center), and some other monsters

Going through all of time and space, the Doctor and his companions always face some sort of antagonistic character. They are likely seeking world/universal domination or terrorizing innocent parties in some way. Nearly every episode introduces a unique monster or villain, though there are a few who have been confronted by just about every Doctor to date. These would be the Daleks and the Cybermen. These are considerably franchise staples as they have existed in Doctor Who since its earliest years, and they are also a few of the most recognizable characters (apart from the heroes).

The Daleks are extraterrestrial cyborg creatures with the most iconic appearance. Their bodies are large, perhaps around six or seven feet tall, and they’re encased within a titanium-like shell. They’re outfitted with two arm-like appendages, one of them serving as something like a ray gun, and they appendage on top is basically a Dalek’s visual unit. Writing about them really doesn’t do them much justice as they are the most feared creatures in Doctor Who. With a cold-hearted, robotic cry of “Exterminate!”, one is indeed decimated. As mentioned, the Daleks are bitter enemies against the Doctor and his race of the Time Lords. An event referred to as the Great Time War relates to a rivalrous conflict between the two races, and is the Doctor’s last memory of everything from which he came. It is unclear as to where he was in relation to the events. Some references claim he was on the front lines, and others say he refused to fight. For a long time, he believed he was responsible for his planet’s demise. But most recent stories have entertained Gallifrey’s continued existence since the war, and the Doctor actually saved Gallifrey. (Confused yet? LOL)

The Cybermen are also cyborg creatures, who have been said to originate on a “twin planet” to earth. While they construct themselves from human beings, the human brain is almost the only human thing about them. And even then, human emotions are inhibited within them. They are constantly upgrading, and seeking to upgrade humankind for the sake of their preservation.

A lot of mystery, a lot of madness, but a lot of fun. That’s Doctor Who for ya! It’s a world all its own in all its intricate details, never-ending mystery, and confusion, but I think that’s the beauty of Doctor Who. If it helps, keep in mind that there’s something of a bigger picture to Doctor Who. Many details tend to resonate through episodes and even through seasons, and in due time it comes full circle. I hope this exposition helps you gain some sense of the show (and its fans). There are several companion books and guides to the show available if anything is still unclear or if more specific info is desired. The program’s homepage is a good source too, and you can even check out all the hype for the new season!

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Tags: action, actors, Adventure, alien, BBC, british, companions, cult, Dalek, doctor, Doctor Who, dr. who, episodes, fan, fantasy, guide, info, Matt Smith, mystery, new, Nonwhovians, regeneration, sci-fi, Season 8, space, story, TARDIS, televsion, time, tv, unique, Whovians .

Toast Pop Travels: Blue Moon Café

Posted on August 5, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Food, Lifestyle .

Toast Pop Travels: Blue Moon Café

Shepherdstown, West Virginia is the oldest town in the state, but a blended atmosphere of home-grown, country, and contemporary combine with its antiquity to make it a wonderful place! There is just as much of a unique atmosphere at its Blue Moon Café. Much of the dining area is furnished outside among a shady green oasis that even includes a fountain. The menu is an affordable variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, wraps, pizza, and a little crab. They have many vegan and vegetarian options, along with several alcoholic beverages. Blue Moon is locally sourced, meaning many of their products were grown or made right in the region. Local entertainment can even be found here at their open mic nights.

Blue Moon Café gets my “Toast Pop Approval” for its support of local agriculture, food quality, meal price, and unique dining experience outdoors! Its well-worth the walk from anywhere in the heart of town.

 

 

Plan your visit to Shepherdstown and the Blue Moon Café!

Blue Moon Café homepage: http://www.bluemoonshepherdstown.com/index.html

View the menu, get directions, and get to know their local sources

Blue Moon Café Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bluemoonwv/timeline

Get updates on specials and performances

Shepherdstown Visitors Center: http://shepherdstown.info/

Learn the history, find out about local events, plan a stay, and more!

Blue Moon Cafe

Blue Moon Cafe

Blue Moon's outdoor dining area

Blue Moon’s outdoor dining area

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Tags: affordable, alcohol, Blue Moon Cafe, Food, fun, history, local, Music, open mic, outdoors, Shepherdstown, unique, variety, vegan, vegetarian, WV .

Toast Pop Travels: Topsail Turtle Project

Posted on August 4, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Lifestyle, Uncategorized .
Personal photo: Volunteers talk about the sea turtles in their treatment facility

Personal photo: Volunteers talk about the sea turtles in their treatment facility

Vacationing tourists aren’t the only ones looking for a good place to stay near the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Topsail Island is the choice nesting ground for several kinds of sea turtles, and along with them is the Topsail Turtle Project, a private, nonprofit, and volunteer organization dedicated to maintaining the sea turtle’s well-being. Their mission to the marine life is to conserve and protect them here and abroad; rescue and rehabilitate the injured; and inform and educate the community about the their plight and threat of extinction. The heart of the organization is the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City. For no more than five dollars a visitor, you can experience a guided tour of the facility and see the turtles in their care. Visits can be made in the afternoon five days a week, all year long, because there is always something interesting going on. The

Personal photo: a sea turtle in treatment

Personal photo: a sea turtle in treatment

project’s web pages alone boast information on successful recoveries, releases, and information on nesting along Topsail beaches. So, you’re bound to be part of something new in your visit and even your support through donations.

My family vacationed on Topsail Island this summer, and I really liked being there! It has a small-town vibe: quiet and comfortable. Some beach access is exclusive to visitors and residents of certain residential complexes, and there are some choice local restaurants and even ice cream parlors. The turtle hospital and turtle project are the heart of this community, so I give it all a big “Toast Pop Approval”!

 

 

Plan your trip to Topsail Island and the Sea Turtle Rescue Center!

Personal photo: downtown Surf City after a rainshower

Personal photo: downtown Surf City after a rainshower

 

homepage for the rescue center: http://www.seaturtlehospital.org/index.htm

Find hours of operation, make a donation, and see what’s going   on.

The hospital Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/seaturtlehospital/timeline

See exclusive photos of the Topsail Turtle Project at work, and try out the area guide app.

Personal photo: this is a plastic sculpture done by a local artist. Its message is to be mindful of your litter and belongings at the beach, as they can cause problems for the marine life

Personal photo: this is a plastic sculpture done by a local artist. Its message is to be mindful of your litter and belongings at the beach, as they can cause problems for the marine life

Topsail Island homepage: http://www.topsailbeach.org/
Arrange to stay right on the island, and find other things to do.

 

 

 

 

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Tags: beach, conservation, educational, endangered, hospital, island, Karen Beasley, Marine, NC, North Carolina, organization, personal, rehab, Surf City, Topsail Island, Topsail Turtle Project, turtles, vacation, volunteer, wildlife, year-around .

Toast Pop Travels: Hinton and the Chestnut Revival

Posted on May 29, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Food .

Toast Pop Travels: Hinton and the Chestnut Revival Get the “wild and wonderful” experiences of West Virginia in the most authentic ways possible by paying a visit to Hinton, West Virginia! Hinton is a small town tucked away in the eastern hills of the Mountain State and has a rooted successful lineage in being a former railroad town. Hinton is about twenty-eight miles from Beckley, but close to its history with museums dedicated to the railroad industry and the Civil War. Hinton is also not far from state parks Pipestem and Bluestone and the New River Gorge. No place could be any closer to natural beauty and history than Hinton.

Toast Pop Travels: Hinton and the Chestnut Revival

Local talent performing at the Chestnut Revival

There is perhaps no other place in Hinton that can make you feel more comfortable in the mountains than the Chestnut Revival: a homey, bed-and-breakfast and coffee shop on Summers Street. Reviews on TripAdvisor.com rank Chestnut Revival only second to The Market on Courthouse Square, but critics have ranked it the best for its cozy atmosphere, food quality, and friendly service. And this place is definitely a “ToastPop approved” attraction as both editors have been there and loved it! It is everything a coffee shop should be and more! One can easily relax and enjoy themselves in their dining area while consuming home-cooked tea, coffee, and other delicious treats! Most Friday nights are open mic nights featuring local talent and there is fun to be had on most holidays. There is no place like home, but Hinton and the Chestnut Revival could most certainly be your home away from home while you experience all the “wild and wonderful” West Virginia has to offer!

Toast Pop Travels: Hinton and the Chestnut Revival

A delicious drink from Chestnut Revival

Plan your visit to Hinton and the Chestnut Revival!

Chestnut Revival homepage: http://www.chestnutrevival.com/

Find business hours, book a stay, find local attractions

Chestnut Revival Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chestnut-Revival/107441515982616?id=107441515982616&sk=photos_stream

Chestnut Revival menu: http://www.chestnutrevival.com/menu.html

They serve breakfast and lunch all day, and offer healthy and organic options 

The city of Hinton website: http://hintonwva.com/

Get information on the history, local life, and events 

 

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Tags: bed and breakfast, Bluestone, Bluestone State Park, Chestnut Revival, Civil War, coffee, Food, Hinton, history, info, local, lodging, nature, New River Gorge, open mic, Pipestem, Pipestem State park, railroad, state parks, tea, West Virginia, wild and wonderful, WV .

Toast Pop Travels: Hyman’s Seafood Company

Posted on May 28, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Food .


Toast Pop Travels: Hyman’s Seafood CompanyIn the heart of the historic district of Charleston, South Carolina is a wonderful staple business that has stood for over a century. What began as a wholesale center in 1890 has become Hyman’s Seafood restaurant and Aaron’s Deli; a city landmark, a critically acclaimed eatery, and a very popular dining spot. The critics regard Hyman’s for quality food and service all for great prices, and anyone who is anyone has dined there at some point. It might get a little crowded, but it is not the least bit uncomfortable, and worth the wait. Its popularity contributes to the restaurant’s lively atmosphere.  There is something for everyone at the cost of twenty dollars at most for a dinner meal. The complimentary boiled peanuts and hush puppies are some of the best! Usually families with children are even presented with coupons for complimentary dessert redeemable at the general

Hyman's complimentary hushpuppies

Hyman’s complimentary hushpuppies

store on the way out, and you can take some of your Hyman’s experience with you when you purchase from their array of souvenirs!Beyond the hype, a trip to Hymans can be a great personal tradition. It’s a family owned business spanning about five generations after all. My own family often vacations in Charleston, and our experiences are not complete if we don’t go to Hymans. The editor-in-chief endorses it too! Southern cuisine and hospitality couldn’t be a better value anywhere else!

Plan your visit to Hymans!

Main website: hymanseafood.com
Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/HymansSeafood
Menu: http://www.hymanseafood.com/files/file/Hymans_Seafood_Menu.pdf

Mobile app: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hymans/id494362469?mt=8
Free for Apple devices. Access their menu, find recipes, get in on the daily deals, and more!  
Who’s been to Hymans? Check out the celebrity list!

 

1 Comment .
Tags: Aaron's Deli, app, business, celebrities, Charleston, coastal, company, complimentary, family, famous, Food, historic, hush puppies, Hymans, Hymans seafood co., quality, SC, seafood, South Carolina, southern, value, Vanilla Ice .

Dating Tips for College Students (Part Two)

Posted on February 9, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Lifestyle .

Once in a while, in the midst of the ‘flirtationships’, the hang outs and million calls, you meet someone who you just know is your future. (author unknown)

In the first part of this article, I expressed the notion of taking it slow in a romantic relationship. Doing this gives you the chance to evaluate your desires and expectations for a relationship. More importantly, it can help you get to know your person of interest and this is the essence of flirting done right. You gain mutual interest with a person you like, you get acquainted, and somewhere along the line, you find your lifelong partner! Just about every pop culture magazine and publication has ideas and advice for flirting with others (Just google something to the extent of “ways to flirt”). Though here are some basics:

  • Make eye contact and smile. They are basic ways to show and express interest.
  • Be casual in conversation with your love interest. Compliment them, and try not talk about yourself or complain too much.
  • Leave them wanting more. Leave a conversation before hitting an awkward pause. Let them know you enjoyed your interaction and hint at doing it again.
  • Be confident and be yourself. There’s just something about confidence that’s sexy. Some tips suggest some extra primping or practicing your looks and moves before facing your interest. If you can, perhaps even listen to a favorite song or two to pump you up. And put aside the negativity in your mind. You are an awesome, likeable, interesting person!

Here are some more advice articles on flirting:

http://www.wikihow.com/Flirt

http://thesinglewomanguide.com/how-to-flirt-9-effortless-ways-to-flirt-with-a-man/

http://sibg.com/flirting-101/

http://dating.lovetoknow.com/List_of_101_Ways_to_Flirt

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Tags: advice, college, date, dating, flirt, flirting, fun, girls, Google, guide, guy, guys, high, high school, hot, how, how-to, lesson, Love, online, relationship, relationships, school, simple, tips, to, tutorial, valentines .

Dating Tips for College Students (Part One)

Posted on February 7, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Lifestyle .

Don’t you know it’s going too fast,
Racing so hard you know it won’t last, 
Don’t you know, what can’t you see,
Slow it down, read the sign, so you know just where you are going.
Stop right now
Thank you very much,
I need somebody with the human touch,
Hey you, always on the run,
Gotta slow down baby, got have some fun.
–Spice Girls, “Stop”

If you know (or just listened to) this song , it’s probably stuck in your head now, but I couldn’t help but to think of it while creating this article. The social aspect of the college experience may give you a lot of opportunities to either spend a lot of time mingling or spend a lot of exclusive time with that “special someone”. Whatever you’re doing, and wherever you are in terms of romantic relationships this Valentine’s season (single, taken, just starting out, ect.), take it from the Spice Girls and stop for a minute, slow down, and think about yourself and your attitude towards the relationship at hand. Here are some reasons to decelerate things a bit in these matters:

For yourself. Most college students are figuring out who they are and who they want to be, and perhaps you are too. Know thyself before intimately knowing someone else. Figure out what your goals, values, and desires in life are before bringing another person into the mix.  And make sure your baiting and dating won’t distract you too much from your school work.

For protection. Surely you know haste can make mistakes, and that can apply in forming new relationships as well. Don’t assume too much of the other person or dive right into serious matters early on, or else someone will be driven away and leave a broken heart. Get out of situations that make you feel uncomfortable or avoid them altogether. The right person will respect your boundaries.  

For the sake of time. Don’t make it a high priority and goal to marry around your graduation time! Make the most of the few years you have in the unique social environment that college is. There’s too much to do to be tied down with someone so quickly. Focus on forming friendly connections before a romantic connection.

For your future. If marriage is seriously a thought for your future, then take your dating relationships seriously. Get to know the other person like a best friend. Get to understand their thoughts and feelings, learn about their values and life goals. If there is common ground or room for compromise, then you’re on the right track for better and for worse.

More dating advice to come soon!

 

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Tags: advice, college, date, dating, future, girls, guide, guy, guys, high, high school, Holiday, hot, how, how-to, lesson, life, relationship, relationships, school, simple, social, Spice Girls, Stop, student, to, tutorial, valentines .

Health and Wellness for Young People

Posted on January 31, 2014 by kejohns323 Posted in Health .

In the words of a hip-hop artist and wellness advocate named SupaNova Slom, “Don’t let sickness…and disease THUG YOU OUT.” Some sort of sickness gets to all of us, especially during the cold winter months. But don’t let it get the best of you. This list of tips should help you avoid the worst and help you get better.

Stay hydrated and eat healthy- Most sicknesses often leave you weary and dreary, probably because your body fluids are getting depleted as your body tries to function and heal. So, drink plenty of liquids when you’re sick. Fruit and vegetables are a good source of natural vitamins and minerals from which your body would really benefit as well. And chicken noodle soup is a really good cold remedy!

Do some research- Learn about what is going on with your body and what you can do for it by researching your sicknesses or symptoms. (I recently found a YouTube video debunking myths on the common cold.) Start with Google, webmd.com, or talk to someone in your family or someone you trust. Although I wouldn’t recommend internet searches in place of seeking professional medical care if you are uncertain of things or have a serious problem.

Get vaccinated and take some medicine- Keep up with your medical tests, shots, and immunizations to prevent serious health issues.  Most places might offer flu shots free or cheap to college students. Take some medicine or start a remedy treatment when you start to feel sick. Try not to wait till you’re miserable from it.

Practice some healthy habits-Wash your hands after using the bathroom. Wear flip-flops when using public showers. Make sure you eat well-cooked foods. Keep scars and scrapes from getting infected. Practice good hygiene. Maybe things like these are common sense, but even some of the simplest actions can make the difference in getting sick or getting better.

Rest and stay in if necessary-If you feel bad, or if your illness is contagious, stay home and rest. This will give your immune system the opportunity to fight the illness and keep you (and others) from getting exposed to more germs.

Other resources:

“Why Do We Get Sick More in the Wintertime?”– web article

“6 Foods that Prevent Sickness”– web article

MedicineNet.com – information website similar to WebMD

“Stop a Cold in its Tracks”– web article from Health magazine

shalommama.com– Look under the “health” tab for her advice on natural and herbal remedies

 

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Tags: adult, articles, cold, college students, drink, flu, Food, guide, habits, health, remedy, resources, sick, SupaNova Slom, WebMD, wellness, winter, YA, young adult, young people .

How to Make and Keep New Years Resolutions

Posted on December 31, 2013 by kejohns323 Posted in Lifestyle .

How to Make and Keep New Years Resolutions

It’s that (other) time of year again! Christmas may be the most wonderful time of the year, but New Years is a not-so-wonderful time for most. With every New Year, everybody wants to be a new person in some way, and resolves to whatever changes they want or need in their life to make that happen. Unfortunately, the changes and efforts may only last till the next month or so before the resolutions are neglected. What goes wrong? Some sort of discouragement is likely the answer. The steps towards the new person are taking too long, or maybe they aren’t yielding the right results or something. Whatever the reason discouragement comes upon the romantic resolution-maker, I want to tell them not to give up. It’s only been a month or two out of a whole year. Stick to it, and better things will come! It may also help to have some perspective on your resolutions. Here are some things to try in working towards your 2014 resolutions:

Set sensible, practical goals– Simply resolving to some change is too broad, and changing to fit the “golden standards” of the media and society are unrealistic. Be specific in the changes you want to make, and set smaller goals to get there. Example: If you’re looking to the age-old resolution of weight loss/control, you may want to set a goal of losing x pounds in y days/weeks/months, and do it by working out or eating healthy meals/snacks so many times a week.

Change out of desire, not obligation– Change because it is something you want to change, not because you or someone says you should. Nobody likes being forced into anything. You’ll be more motivated to stick to your resolutions when they result in some personal satisfaction.

Journal your progress-This will help you remember your goals and keep yourself accountable of your progress. Write routinely on your activities and track your efforts. For instance, if your resolution involves weight loss or control, write about what you have eaten, what exercises you’ve done and how much weight you’ve lost. If your resolution involves a change in negative behaviors or attributes, write about daily victories where you chose a more positive action (or reaction). If you ever get discouraged, you can be encouraged by how far you have come.

Surround yourself with support– You’re not alone in your desire to change. Keeping your resolutions with somebody is another good motivator as you can learn from each other’s successes and mistakes, keep one another accountable, and just be motivated by the other’s presence and efforts. Work out with a friend or family member, seek professional help, or join a group that can help with your personal issues you’re wanting to resolve.

Stay positive– Above all else, don’t let bad days, back steps, and mistakes get the better of you! It’s just one day out of three hundred and sixty-five. Learn from the errors and know there are still plenty more days ahead to get it better and get it right! Seek out encouraging and inspirational resources (quotes, books, blogs, calendars, ect.) to inspire and reassure your attitude every day!

 

Happy New Year from ToastPop! And good luck with accomplishing your New Years goals!!!

 

 

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Tags: 2014, change, encouragement, goal, goal-setting, goals, guide, health, how-to, life, new, New Years, resolution, resolutions, Support, weight, weight loss, year, years .
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