The Harper Image

Veteran's Day

2009-11-15T21:00:00.000-08:00

I think I owe a big "Thanks" to Chaz who always is asking me if we can go play at the beach. Because of his prodding and begging, we ended up spending the day at the Del Mar Beach with friends and we had the "BEST TIME EVER" as my kids would say.

Giant sand hills to slide down.

Ali making a Sand Angel.

Chaz and Justin digging in the sand.

Running out to catch the waves.

Riding the waves in.

I'm going to be sad if I ever have to move from this magical place.

I'm so glad the American Dietetic Association weighed in on this segment

2009-10-03T21:41:00.000-07:00

August 10, 2009

Mr. Andrew Morse
Executive Producer
Good Morning America Weekend

Dear Mr. Morse:

I am writing in regard to the segment on “What to Eat When: Foods to Satisfy” that aired Sunday, August 9, on Good Morning America Weekend. This interview contained many inaccurate and misleading statements that are not backed up by nutrition science research and therefore contained little useful information for your viewers who want to eat well and be healthy.

As a registered dietitian with many years of experience, I had never heard some of the “advice” given in this segment. For example, Kimberly Snyder’s statement that toasting bread “bakes out the sticky starch” and makes it easier to digest is not supported by any science I am aware of. Her recommendation to avoid diet soda because its artificial sweeteners are “highly glycemic” is incorrect, since non-nutritive low-calorie sweeteners do not contain carbohydrates (which are measured by the Glycemic Index) and therefore do not raise a person’s blood sugar levels. Contrary to Ms. Snyder’s comments, genetically modified protein bars containing soy protein isolate are no more difficult to digest than any other protein. And there is no evidence that eating fruit as a midnight snack causes indigestion, since all foods a person eats are mixed together in the stomach and do not “sit on top” of one another.

These are only four examples of the numerous factual errors in this interview, which unfortunately missed an opportunity to provide GMA’s millions of viewers with reliable, consumer-friendly food and nutrition advice that is backed up by the consensus of scientific research.

The good news is, consumer-friendly advice backed by science is available to everyone – from a registered dietitian. The American Dietetic Association has a national network of spokespeople in all parts of the country – all registered dietitians who (unlike self-proclaimed nutritionists) have earned their status as real experts through education and experience.

The American Dietetic Association’s media relations professionals will follow up with you and discuss potential segments for Good Morning America Weekend. ADA looks forward to continuing our Association’s productive relationship with Good Morning America to provide the public with food and nutrition advice that your viewers will find informative, entertaining and, most important, accurate.

On behalf of the 70,000 members of the American Dietetic Association, thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Jessie M. Pavlinac, MS, RD, CSR, LD
President, American Dietetic Association

Cc: Desiree Adib, Guest Booker
Roger Sergel, ABC News Medical Unit

Watch this video:
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=8286985

My Favorite American Idol...

2009-04-17T22:50:00.000-07:00

Kris Allen is my favorite!! I predict Adam Lambert may win because he has so much confidence performing, but Kris Allen is so musical and I just like him(he's a cutie too). What more can I say--vote for him.

My FUNNEST TRIP YET......

2009-04-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, we decided to pull the kids out of school before spring break and go to Disneyland and California Adventure with our cousins Brian, Laura and Brianna. It was so much fun and the lines weren't long at all(yeah!!). The only long line was for the new Toy Story ride. Much to my delight, Chaz is tall enough to go on all the rides at Disneyland except the Indiana Jones ride (why not that ride??).

Chaz in T-Ball

2009-03-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post some pictures of Chaz in T-ball. He is having a lot of fun. He is a lefty and has a strong hit. All the boys on his team are so adorable.

December was packed/ My blog was ignored....

2009-01-03T20:40:00.000-08:00

I like Sunshine's idea of posting updates for the entire month. December was so busy for me. I really didn't have time to update my blog and I've missed reading all your blogs.

Besides all the small things...I started training on a new job(thank you Lora, Kathleen and David for the glowing references--your awesome), had a final in my music class(yikes), performed a piano solo at a piano recital(I was more nervous than the little kids-I'll try to figure out how to post the video), had family in town for the holidays(fun!!fun!!), attended my brother's baby blessing(neat!) and my sister's temple sealing(very cool!). I feel so exhausted and I haven't even finished my yearly photobooks(I'm behind).

Christmas morning

Grandma and Grandpa Simonson

Proof .....

2009-01-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I took a music class on Wednesday evenings this past semester. I loved taking the class and I learned a lot. One of my classmates took this picture and emailed me a copy. As you can see, it was a very diverse class and I was surprised that there weren't more girls in the class. I guess guys are taking over in the music business?? So, here is the proof that I actually was enrolled in a class.

Veronica's BB SHOWER

2008-10-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Teresa and I threw a babyshower for Veronica. It was a lot of fun and Veronica received some great items for her baby. (She needs help thinking of a middle name that starts with the letter "M".) Hey Veronica--how about Mammy?

Updates on ME

2008-10-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

I've been very busy lately. Of course my favorite type of busy is being a mom to two kids who are both in several activites. Also, I am taking a swim class at the college, a music class and piano lessons. I just love learning--I always need a challenge. Next, I've been HEAVILY involved the past week in "YES on PROP 8" matters. Finally, I'm looking around at picking up consulting work as a Dietitian. I should know in a week or so if I've secured a job as an enteral dietitian--working with tubefed patients.

It is hard to see, but the tubefed patient is asking "What is for dessert?"

Updates on Ali and Chaz

2008-10-25T16:37:00.001-07:00

Ali's class toured the U.S.S. Midway. I try to go on every field trip with her and I thought it was an amazing field trip to see a city on water. Something only possible to do here in San Diego.

Chaz is really into building. He sneaks out in the garage and gets screws, bolts, tools and anything that looks like it could be used to build. Chaz kept trying to build a robot and I wanted to help him but I felt like it would be more in Cary's arena to help him with that. So, they built a robot and Chaz even wanted to sleep with it. So cute!!

A glimpse of Cary's trip to Taiwan

2008-10-25T16:00:00.001-07:00

Cary was gone the last couple of weeks for his work. He went to Ottawa Canada for the first week and then to Taiwan the next week. Of course Cary, me and the kids don't like it at all. Needless to say, Taiwan was interesting for him and us to hear about. Especially the food--Cary tried honey with white fungus soup, a bubble drink with tapioca balls in it and many other dishes that he has no idea what they are called

The Bathrooms are made for short people. Cary had to kneel at the sink.

Everyone has a scooter

The Taipei 101-tallest building in the world

Only real purses

Try this for fun....

2008-09-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

My daughter attended princess camp this summer and I found a lot of humor in the suggestion of a "princess camp." I was hoping the camp would turn the girls into "princesses" but unfortunately it was just the name of the camp and didn't reflect the content. Regardless, I found this site that will determine which princess you are most like...I guess I'm the most similiar to Belle...who would have guessed???

You Are Belle!

Intelligent and kind. Your beauty goes much further than your apperance. Also, you make judgements of people based on their personality and not their looks. Attaining all the knowledge that you can is one of your major goals in life, but you are also a person who can make things happen.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

VERY INTERESTING STUFF!!

2008-09-26T21:06:00.001-07:00

Daniel Gilbert:
"...most research subjects strongly belive that another $30K a year in income would make them much happier.
And they feel equally strongly that adding a 30-minute walk to their daily routine would be of trivial import.
And yet Dr. Gilbert's research suggests that the added income is far less likely to produce an increase in happiness than the addition of a regular walk."

(Thanks Jess!!)

First Day of School for Ali and Chaz

2008-09-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

You can see Ali with her 3rd grade teacher and her best friend Nitya. Her and Nitya have been in the same class for 3 years (that is amazing) and such a blessing to us.

Chaz is in preschool one more year and he also lucked out to be in a class with his best friends--Caden and Tommy.

I love my 3G iPhone

2008-07-23T12:40:00.001-07:00

Cary waited in line for three hours last Friday at the Fashion Valley mall (I decided to shop) so we could get the new iPhone and I am in love with it. I'm not a big techno-geek girl but it is awesome, especially for moms. It has every feature I could imagine and it doesn't come with directions because it is so easy to use. Also, now you can actually call me on my cell phone. I got rid of that other piece-of-junk phone that never worked.

For you Diane

2008-07-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Diane wanted me to post my salad recipe from Carmen's babyshower. It is so easy to make and very yummy.

I buy a box of the Suddenly Pasta Salad-Chipotle Ranch type, and make up the box according to its directions.

Then I stir in whatever I have on hand into the finished salad:
cubed chicken
cubed or shredded Cheddar cheese
chopped fresh tomato
chopped green onions
chopped avocado
frozen corn (add the last 3 minutes of cooking the pasta)
can of black beans
top with tortilla chips

It tastes good with all of these stir ins or only one or two of them.

Nutrition Update

2008-07-13T16:50:00.001-07:00

Some interesting nutrition tidbits:

1. McDonald's Fries Go Trans-Fat Free--Many of you have heard me complain about how eating McDonald's fries are actually worse for your body than smoking a cigarette. They are lethal. The good news is that McDonald's has announced it is making a change to go with a Trans-Fat free oil. So even though I don't recommend the fries, if you do eat them or give them to your kids, you don't need to feel as bad.

2. Kraft has come out with a mayonnaise made with olive oil. The product has half the fat and calories as regular Kraft mayonnaise and the fat used is a good fat for our bodies.

3. After some investigation, it has been found that restaurant dishes targeted to health conscious consumers actually contained twice the calories and eight times the grams of fat than was originally claimed. Chili's, Taco Bell and Applebee's are some of the restaurants at fault.

Our trip to RENO

2008-07-09T17:05:00.000-07:00

Since we were going to Cary's sister's wedding in Reno, we decided to make a road-trip out of it. We toured parts of Yosemite and saw the giant Sequoias. We went over Tioga pass which is the highest road in the U.S. and went through Bodie, a real Ghost Town. The kids were so funny because when we were on the hike seeing the Sequoias they were complaining practically the entire time about how tired their legs were. Cary and I didn't think they enjoyed themselves and then the next day they were talking about how great it was. Who would have known with all the complaints.

Beth's Wedding in Reno

2008-07-09T16:57:00.000-07:00

Cary's youngest sister's wedding. Truly Rockabilly style.

I LOVED IT!!

2008-07-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to Blog about our going to the WICKED musical because it was SO SO GOOD! We took Chaz and Ali and had 2nd row seats. Needless to say, they both loved it too. As Cary and I say, we're making memories!!!

THE BAPTISM--on May 31st

2008-06-07T21:14:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud--

More of the BAPTISM

2008-06-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

Only one official blood injury---(jump at your own risk)--

The barbeque bunch--

Great Grandma Harper and Grandma Harper--

Some of the best friends I could ask for--(all very hot too!!)

Lots of help in the kitchen--

More of the BAPTISM

2008-06-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Chaz--grossing people out with the slug. He likes to collect them!!

My brother, Mom and sister's husband Joel--

Both Grandpa's--

My sister Teresa and my brother Drew--

Cary's brother Jamie and his wife Karmel--

More of the BAPTISM

2008-06-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

My sister Arlene with her husband Mike and daughter McKenna

The proud parents....

What is a party without SMORES?

My sister Desiree--who by the way--has the same tissue type as me (we found this out when we were all tested to try and find a donor for my brother who had leukemia). She is my donor if something goes amiss with me.

Just a big THANKS for all the support from family and friends!! Ali is really loved.

Memorial Day

2008-05-27T07:53:00.001-07:00

We started the day out with a photo shoot with Ali in her Baptismal dress. The pictures turned out great. I'm getting a shot of her printed on canvas to hang on our wall. Her Baptism is this Saturday!!!

After pictures I promised Ali she could use some of her Birthday money and buy another Webkinz. We went to the store and they were having a one day sale so I bought Chaz one too. Ali owns the Webkinz on the left-Henry, Starfire, Sammy and Sally. Chaz owns the one on the right-Hatcher. The kids are crazy about their Webkinz. With the Webkinz, after you purchase the animals, you can enter a unique code for each animal into the Webkinz program on the computer to activate the online Webkinz. Once activated, you can take care of the Webkinz in every aspect--food, exercise, health and etc.. The online Webkinz is where the fun is.

Next, a quick stop at Balboa Park. The trees are amazing so I just had to capture a picture.

Finally, a day at the Zoo. It was the perfect day for the zoo because it was cooler so all the animals were out. Every exhibit had active animals which is hard to find at the zoo on most warmer weather days. Afterwards the kids told me the funnest part of going to the zoo was the Tram ride (who cares about the animals).

To end the day, both kids are coughing and I think I'm going to keep Ali home from school again.
>

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!!!

2008-05-27T07:41:00.001-07:00

The other weekend we met up at LaJolla Shores beach with the Heals. Guess what I did? It was a lot of fun!!

The Birthday Parties are over........

2008-05-06T09:21:00.001-07:00

For Chaz, we had a Buzz Lightyear party. I wanted to make a Buzz cake but it is rather complicated so I ended up making Alien cupcakes and Chaz absolutley loved them!!!

For Ali's birthday we had a Pony Party. Ali is really into horses and is going to a horseback riding camp this summer. I found a cute pony cake online and made it for her party. Her and her friends thought it was so cool!!!

ONLY 3 WEEKS LEFT.....

2008-04-27T19:22:00.001-07:00

Many of you know that Sunshine, Jen and I are in a swimming class at Miramar college. We swim twice a week in the mornings from 6:30am to 7:30am. This is our second swimming class that we've taken together and I think we are technically in the advanced swimming class because this class has a lot more of the butterfly stroke in it. As you can see from the pictures, there is a certain amount of fashion in swimming. We especially enjoy the flower hair caps. Of course you can't see our sexy suits, go ahead and let your mind imagine-- how great our competitive swimming suits look :) Hopefully we will continue this in the fall and add a few more friends with us--the possibilities are endless.

I'VE BEEN TAGGED

2008-04-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

This is a fun one--- Jen:

This is what you do:
1. Pick up the nearest book (at least 123 pages).
2. Turn to page 123.
3. Find the 5th sentence
4. Post the 5th sentence on your blog.
5. Tag 5 people.

This is from 100 Greatest Love Songs. I'm picking a song from this book to sing in my class. The 5th sentence is "hold me in your arms tonight." The song is Hero by Enrique Iglesias.

I tag Jessica, Maree, Tara, Emily and anyone else who hasn't been tagged.

All I can say is ---FUN!!!!

2008-03-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

I thought these pictures were very representative of my kids. I love the trampoline for my family. My kids are always outside jumping on it. They've made up all sorts of crazy games and have such a great time on it.

My Favorite Cereal is BACK!!!

2008-03-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

About a year and a half ago, I discovered this cereal at Costco. It is healthy and tastes wonderful. I just love it so much---I think I could eat it for all my meals and never tire of it. Then, about a year ago I couldn't find it anywhere at Costco. Everytime I shopped there, I would look for it and started feeling battered with the disapointment hitting me over and over again. I was desperate. The other cold cereals just seemed inadequate compared to this one. I tried other brands of flax cereal thinking they might taste similiar but was disapointed everytime. I searched on the internet and looked for this specific cereal at Vons, Ralphs, Henry's and Trader Joe's, but I couldn't find it. Except for the memory, it almost seemed like something that never existed. After several months I gave up and decided that I must savor what little memory that I was holding and move on. Then to my surprise, about a month ago it was back at Costco. I noticed the green box and the scrumptuous picture on it. At that moment everything was silent to me except for my footsteps approaching the cereal. My hands reached out and grabbed a box and continued grabbing box after box until my cart was sufficiently full. I don't remember what else I bought that day, but I do know that I have added this cereal to my food storage needs so that I can rationalize buying it in bulk. I recommend to all my friends that you should buy this cereal. If for some reason you don't have the same passion for it as I feel, no biggie, just drop it off at my house and I will eat it for you!!!

What Can I Say???

2008-03-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure who or what to blame for this, but I think the origins began a couple of weeks ago when I noticed that I had written in Ali's baby book that she could write her name when she was three years old. After reading this I realized that I haven't yet tried to teach Chaz how to write his name and he is turning four soon. So, I sat down with him and showed him how to write his name. He was a quick learner I can proudly say. Then, on Easter, the Easter Bunny gave Chaz some Buzz Lightyear figures. Him and Ali were playing with them and just like Andy in the movie, Ali wrote Chaz's name on all of the Buzz Lightyear toy figures. Unknown to me until later, she got a little carried away with writing names (using a Sharpie) and signed a lot of her toys and Chaz's toys with their names. The next day Chaz found the Sharpie marker (and I guessing that since he felt he could now write his own name and only the day before he had watched his sister label many toys) he decided it was his turn.

On his hamper's lid--

Can you make out Chaz's name?

I can see now which letters I need to work with him more on....
Gosh, the letter "H" is improving, It must be all the practice he is getting.

Ali's good example to Chaz on how to properly label your toys

Let's not forget Ali's toys too

Moral of the story---Don't spend too much on your children's furniture

I'VE BEEN TAGGED (and I'm a little slow :)-but dependable)

2008-03-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago I was: 25 years old and married for 3 years. I had graduated from BYU two years prior and was working as a Registered Dietititan. I think it was around the time Cary and I bought our first house (we've bought 5 houses total). We lived in an apartment on the second floor and the people underneath our apartment would smoke a lot!! We decided to buy a teeny tiny house just up the street to get out of the smoke. I learned after that experience that I can't live in old houses--they are just gross.

Things on my to-do list today: Last minute practice for the Messiah performance tonight. It should be a lot of fun. There is a fun group of friends from our ward that are singing together. Read to Chaz. Help Ali with homework, math drills and piano right after school. 2 loads of laundry. Some sort of exercise.

Three bad habits: 1.) I worry too much!!! (am I reading enough with our kids, our house payment is too big, I need to get my exercise in--yikes--sometimes I just want to not think about anything) 2.)I spend a lot more money when shopping on-line than in the store. I guess it is easier to click-click!! 3.)I'm not a meal planner. I've realized this more with a family and do try do plan out meals better.

Six things most people don't know about me:

1.) When I was in second grade, I entered a coloring contest. I took the picture home and had my sister who was three years older than me color it and then I brought it back to school for the contest. Somehow I won the contest and the big coloring book prize. I know I can't be so proud of this --but I'm sure most of you didn't know this about me :)
2.) I grew up on a dairy farm in Montana and milked cows for money in highschool. I must say I'm not much of a farm girl--always afraid of the animals and not liking the smell and all. But, milking cows was very good money and I was motivated by money.
3.) While still in college, I won the "Dietitian of the year award." Pretty amazing and very surprising for me.
4.) In college, my roommates and I figured out how to get candy out of the coin-op candy machines without a coin. I still know how to do this but I don't do it and I'm not planning on teaching it to my kids.
5.)I've never wore braces and I have very straight teeth. In fact, I've had a dentist ask me if I wore braces before.
6.) I'm a middle child in a family of eight children (I think that is where I get my craftiness).

I'm going to tag anyone who hasn't already done this!!!

2008-02-26T16:15:00.000-08:00

I pulled this comic off of my friend Lora's blog. Lora and I used to work and run together when I lived in Utah.

I love my daughter

2008-02-14T18:25:00.000-08:00

I was in Ali's room the other day and I noticed that she had made a sign to remind her to say her personal prayers. She is such a strength to me in so many ways.

Legoland

2008-02-14T18:14:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we went to Legoland and had such a fun time. The lines weren't too long and I discovered this yummy dessert. It consisted of fresh strawberries grown locally in Carlsbad and the strawberries were topped with soft-serve ice cream (my mouth is watering as I write this). Look at the picture and guess who didn't want to have their picture taken?

Someone sent this to me

2008-02-04T14:02:00.000-08:00

I just received an email containing the following information and even having a cute picture to illustrate:

The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals, not cold water, maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating.

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal. A serious note about heart attacks - You should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense swe ating are also common symptoms. 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive. A cardiologist says if everyone who reads this message sends it to 10 people, you can be sure that we'll save at least one life. Read this & Send to a friend. It could save a life.
So, please be a true friend and send this article to all your friends you care about.

The funny thing is that this is totally a myth!!! It is interesting how something that seems to make sense is not true at all.

My Fluoride Pet Peeve

2008-02-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Why do people not give their kids fluoride? It is proven effective and supported by the American Medical Association, the American Dental Association, the American Dietetic Association and etc... I'm a firm supporter. How about you?

Clinton for President

2008-02-03T21:52:00.000-08:00

My daughter wants Hilary Clinton to win the presidential race because she is female and would be the first female president. We're voting for Romney (yes he had an ad in the Superbowl$$), but I understand her point on finally having a female president. What do you think?

Tammy's first Tidbit

2008-01-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

In the past, when I did a lot of counseling with patients on Nutrition I always wanted them to start exercising and I have a neat worksheet that I would give them called "A Dozen Other Reasons to Exercise."

I love the information contained in this sheet.

A DOZEN OTHER REASONS TO EXERCISE

Sleep
A 16-week exercise program (30 to 40 minutes of brisk

walking or low-impact aerobics four times a week) improved

the quality, duration, and ease of falling asleep in healthy older adults.1 Exercise may improve sleep by relaxing muscles, reducing stress, or warming the body.

Gallstones
Active women are 30 percent less likely to have gallstone surgery than sedentary women. In one study, women who spent more than 60 hours a week sitting at work or driving were twice as likely to have gallstone surgery as women who sat for less than 40 hours a week.2

Colon Cancer
The most active people have a lower risk of colon cancer — in two studies half the risk — compared to the least active people.3,4 Exercise may lower levels of prostaglandins that accelerate colon cell proliferation and raise levels of prostaglandins that increase intestinal motility. Increased motility may speed the movement of carcinogens through the colon.

Diverticular Disease
In one of the few studies that have been done, the most active men had a 37 percent lower risk of symptomatic diverticular disease than the least active men.5 Most of the protection against diverticular disease--pockets in the wall of the colon that can become inflamed--was due to vigorous activities like jogging and running, rather than moderate activities like walking.

Arthritis
Regular moderate exercise, whether aerobic or strength-training, can reduce joint swelling and pain in people with arthritis.6

Anxiety & Depression
Getting people with anxiety or depression to do aerobic exercises like brisk walking or running curbs their symptoms, possibly by releasing natural opiates.7,8

Heart Disease
In one study, men with low fitness who became fit had a lower risk of heart disease than men who stayed unfit.9 In another, women who walked the equivalent of three or more hours per week at a brisk pace had a 35 percent lower risk of heart disease than women who walked infrequently.10 Exercise boosts the supply of oxygen to the heart muscle by expanding existing arteries and creating tiny new blood vessels. It may also prevent blood clots or promote their breakdown.

Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is already high or high-normal, low- or moderate-intensity aerobic exercise — three times a week — can lower it.11 If your blood pressure isn't high, regular exercise helps keep it that way.

Diabetes
The more you move, the lower your risk of diabetes, especially if you're already at risk because of excess weight, high blood pressure, or parents with diabetes. In one study, women who walked at least three hours a week had about a 40 percent lower risk of diabetes than sedentary women.12

Falls & Fractures
Older women assigned to a home-based (strength- and balance-training) exercise program had fewer falls than women who didn't exercise. 13 Exercise may prevent falls and broken bones by improving muscle strength, gait, balance, and reaction time.

Enlarged Prostate (men only)
In one study, men who walked two to three hours a week had a 25 percent lower risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) than men who seldom walked.14

Osteoporosis
Exercise, especially strength-training, can increase bone density in middle-aged and older people.15 Bonus: postmenopausal women who take estrogen gain more bone density if they exercise.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 J. Amer. Med. Assoc. 277: 32, 1997.
2 N. Eng. J. Med. 341: 777, 1999.
3 J. Nat. Cancer Inst. 89: 948, 1997.
4 Ann. Intern. Med. 122: 327, 1995.
5 Gut 36: 276, 1995.
6 J. Amer. Med. Assoc. 277: 25, 1997
7 J. Psychosom. Res. 33: 537, 1989.
8 Arch. Intern. Med. 159: 2349, 1999.
9 J. Amer. Med. Assoc. 273: 1093, 1995.
10 N. Eng. J. Med. 341: 650, 1999.
11 J. Clin. Epidem. 45: 439, 1992
12 J. Am. Med. Assoc 282: 1433, 1999.
13 Brit. Med. J. 315: 1065, 1997.
14 Arch. Intern. Med. 158: 2349, 1998.
15 J. Bone Min. Res. 11: 218, 1996.

"Tammy Tidbits" are coming soon!!!

2008-01-11T10:37:00.001-08:00

A dear friend of mine who wants me to blog more, recommended that I post some Nutrition/Health tidbits on my blog since I'm a Registered Dietitian. Needless to say, I think her idea is really good and I'm going to start posting a weekly nutrition "Tammy Tidbit." Also, if you have any nutrition comments or questions--feel free to ask.

I think 2008 will be a great year to get in shape and stay healthy!!!

Edward or Jacob??

2007-12-19T21:02:00.000-08:00

A little commentary on the vampire books!!

My Weakness

2007-12-18T13:26:00.000-08:00

I must say that once again this year, I was given a box of Almond clusters from See's Candies. This is my weakness and a very thoughtful friend who heard me mention that I have been craving these chocolates all year long gave these to me. I received them two days ago and look---they are almost gone. With no one to blame but myself.

The Christmas fun continues

2007-12-18T13:08:00.001-08:00

We went to the Huish's annual Christmas showing. It was beautiful of course, complete with santa, toys for the kids, and all those Christms decorations. Besides losing our kids a few times, we had fun. It was fun to see so many people we knew. The one thing I was wondering was where the Nativity was? With so many Christmas decorations shouldn't there be at least one Nativity?

The Busy Fun Weekend

2007-12-18T12:43:00.001-08:00

It all started at the Presbyterian Church's A Night In Bethlehem production

The evening included Llama and pony rides, a petting zoo, puppet show and etc.. A very nice production.

As many of you know, Chaz goes to the Presbyterian preschool and they are helping him become aquainted with Jesus. One day while driving, Chaz looked into the clouds and wanted to know if Jesus was up there. Another time he told me that the Holy Ghost and Jesus are the same. Who says 3 year olds can't learn??

The next day, I took Ali to see the Nutcracker(remember my ballerina hope). This is our 3rd year in a row doing this. We make sure to arrive early so we can enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and a treat (triple chocolate fudge brownie this year). Luckily I secured us seats in the mezzanine. It was splendid-even with those tights on the men dancers.

After the Nutcracker performance, we went to the ward Christmas party and of course I forgot my camera. The evening flowed smoothly with a Bethlehem dinner on the floor (hmmm-no comment about that) and Santa showing up. Chaz asked for a monster truck and Ali asked for a ranch with horses. What the heck, I wouldn't mind owning a ranch here in San Diego.

Chaz's new activity

2007-12-18T12:36:00.000-08:00

The other day I found chaz with a stick poking holes in boxes stored in the garage. After making sure things inside weren't destroyed, I gave him an empty box to have fun with. It must be a boy thing--I can't remember Ali doing anything like this.

2007-12-04T12:36:00.001-08:00

ALRIGHT ALRIGHT, I've been tagged a while back, but for some reason I am just procrastinating doing it. Here are the rules:
A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning. B. Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves. C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asks them to read your blog.

When Jen and Sunshine tagged me, their rules were for me to list six random factoids about myself and have Cary list 2 facts about me. Here goes.

1. I like to watch Oprah. It seems like I am so busy that I don't get to watch much TV. Silly as it is, I feel like her shows keep me abreast of the main happenings around me. Even though I must admit that my opinion of her has dwindled since it was announced that she is campaigning for Obama(sorry all you Obama lovers).

2. Since the fourth grade, I've always wanted to take ballet. Unfortunatley, I've never been able to, so when Ali told me she wanted to take ballet I signed her up and she is going to start in January(oh my little ballerina).

3. If I don't exercise--then chubby runs in my family. Thank goodness for exercise. This semester Jen, Sunshine and I are taking a swimming class and thanks to the extremely sharp eye of our instructor, our technique has all improved.

4. I love to eat out at restaurants. If you ever want to go out to lunch or dinner, I'm all game. Of course I don't eat out as much as I would like because it is a money drain. This past weekend after the BYU/SDSU game, Cary and I dined out at the Brigantine after some friends recommended it. I thought the food and atmosphere were good.

5. I really miss my older brother. As many of you know, I've had two siblings pass away. My older brother was at BYU with me and we took classes and studied together. He always did better on the tests than me, but a couple of points on a test really doesn't matter when you both get the same grade--an A. Also, my brother was very liberal in his political views--I found a lot of humor in his libralism at BYU.

6. My favorite class at BYU was called Flexibility. I'm not very flexible (unlike mrs. flexible--Sunshine Bramwell), but I've always wanted to be flexible. So, I took this class and believe it or not there is a technique for becoming more flexible. We worked on our stretching technique every class period and by the end of the semester, I could do the splits both ways. I can't do that anymore(not even close), but at least I know anyone can become flexible. Too bad that class isn't offered here.

I'll have to post Cary's factoids about me later. I tag Jessica, Gina, Arlene, Teresa, Banna, and Desiree.

Evolution of Dance

2007-11-18T11:14:00.001-08:00

New Playground Equipment

2007-11-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

Chaz's Presbyterian preschool has added some new playground equipment and I'm concerned. I know I have recommended this preschool to many of you, but from this point forth, you must decide for yourself if it is where you want to send your child.

The BEST vacation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-10-31T20:03:00.001-07:00

What can I say, it was great. Let the pictures tell the story.

2007-09-15T15:53:00.000-07:00

Chaz's soccer team

Chaz is excited to be in soccer. In order to teach soccer, his coaches use animals as comparisons. For example he can run fast like a cheetah or sit down like a Hippo. Chaz somehow grasped the hippo comparison and will often sit on his ball during a scrimmage. Regardless, we think he is going to be a good player like his big sister.

2007-09-15T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Birthday Bash!!

Me and some friends all met up to celebrate Nicole, Amy and Carmen's birthdays. It was a fun evening full of good food, fun conversation and a lot of laughs.

2007-09-11T16:32:00.000-07:00

First Day of Preschool

Chaz was so excited to start preschool. He is enrolled in the local Presbyterian Preschool and is thrilled to be attending school like his big sister.

2007-09-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

The BIG OUCH!!

On Labor Day we had to take Chaz to Urgent Care to have his head stapled. Chaz was getting into our van in the garage and fell out of the van, hitting his head on a car jack. The large amount of gushing blood freaked me out. Luckily Cary was home so I had a helper and didn't have to experience it all on my own.

2007-09-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

Del Mar Beach

We went to Del Mar Beach over the Labor Day weekend with the Gwins. It was an awesome day for the beach.

2007-09-11T16:13:00.000-07:00

First day of 2nd Grade

Ali was excited for school to start this year. Her teacher from last year looped so she is lucky enough to have her again.

2007-09-11T16:10:00.000-07:00

Some Cousin Fun!!

While at our cousin's house in Utah, I found the kids in the garage squirting whip cream into their mouths.

2007-09-11T16:04:00.000-07:00

The Airplane Ride

Right before school started, we decided to take JetBlue to Utah. The kids were beyond excited to fly in an airplane, have their own t.v. to watch and get snacks. The excitement was thick in the air :)

2007-07-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

I purchased all the kid's school supplies for this next year and Chaz found the bag and took the crayons out and did a little art work on the house.

2007-07-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

The cool picture that Jen took of Ali and Cary at the ward Primary Pioneer Day activity.

2007-07-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

Ali and Chaz had fun playing dress up. Ali is the pioneer and Chaz is the pirate. Did the pioneers get attacked by Pirates??? Notice the fancy pirate costume that Ali created for Chaz.

2007-07-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

Our New House !!!

Some house picture of the downstairs

The family room

2007-07-19T08:29:00.000-07:00

The kitchen and breakfast nook
Entering the house

2007-07-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

We finally took the plunge and bought a bigger house in San Diego. Of course-- now we are house poor. My friends from out of state would pass out if they knew what we spent:) Even though we really did get a great deal.

2007-07-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

Unfortunatly on the first day of swim lessons, Chaz's swim teacher turned his back on Chaz and Chaz tried to swim on his own. The main life guard jumped into the pool with her clothes on to save him. Luckily it put a little fear in him and he hasn't tried anything daring since :)

2007-07-15T22:46:00.000-07:00

Amy has been so nice to bring her watergun for Chaz at all the pool days. He is a little confused now that she is out of town and hasn't been showing up.

2007-07-15T22:44:00.002-07:00

Ronnie, Alana and Ali (in pink) jumping off of a real San Diego water fall.

2007-07-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

Scott and Cary

2007-07-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

Tammy and Sunshine

2007-07-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

Chaz, Jacob and Caden having fun in the sand

2007-07-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Ali and Alana collecting shells at Torrey Pines beach on July 4th

2007-07-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

Team "Hot Pants" was awesome in the Mud Run.