Who's Your Long Lost Twin???

Question: Do people ever come up to you and randomly tell you that you look like someone they know? Well, as of late, I've been bombarded with this question, so, I've decided to do a little experiment--I'll ask my nearest and dearest buddies to put in their two cents! This should be very enlightening. So, this is how it works, you look at the pics and decide which, if any, you think looks like me. Or, if you don't think any of them look like me, put in your own candidate, or you can just say that I am an Intergalactic Princess and it's just not possible for anyone to be as remarkable as me:) Part II: Who do people tell you that you look like?

Pictures:
1-This is just li'l ole me--lovely right? No laughing.
2-Claire Danes
3-Julia Roberts
4-Trisha Yearwood


Just a funny--I think my friend Renee, down in TN looks just like Lucy Lu, so lovely.
Jen, my buddy from UT, looks just like Felicity Huffman, and one final; my cute li'l sis looks just like Xena:Warrior Princess (Ha! Ha! Ha!)

So long 2008!

It's been a great holiday! We shared it with friends and family, and had a beautiful Christmas as a family! We missed all our friends back home, and in places far from here; but we were all together in spirit, and always will be.

What was your most memorable moment of 2008? No celeb news--unless you were the celeb.

My most memorable moment was spending time with my family at King's Island, and then up at my brother's house in Illinois to bless their little girl. It's been years since all my siblings and I were together, so this was an occasion to be treasured.

Happy Thoughts Welcome Here!!!

Se

 

    

Front page of the Richmond Register

Twelve-year-old Ali Peterson of Winchester chats Saturday with re-enactor Martha Gordon of Columbus, Ind., about the kromski spinning wheel made in Poland which Gordon uses to spin yarn. Gordon and her daughter were demonstrating how settlers made their own clothing. Nancy Taggart / Register Photographer

Julie, RD, LD----Yeah!!!

Hey everybody! I took my qualifying exam to be a Registered Dietitian, and I PASSED! I am official! Hooray! This has been a long time coming and an even longer time studying! Thanks to my family who supported me--all my love!

My nightmare

It was raining outside, as it always is when something bad is about to happen; there was a chill in the air that sliced you to the bone. I have always done my best to protect my family; I make my kids wear their helmets; we wear our seat belts; we talk about sex, drugs & rock 'n roll; I try to know who their friends are; I make sure they are fed and in bed at a decent hour etc.... It was none of these things however that incited the dread I felt inside, rather it was the blasted computer that has wreaked havoc in my "happy" home.

I have never been a big fan of myspace, facebook, yearbook and whatever other spaces and books are out there to expose yourself on. There have just been too many kids--too many times that get themselves into deep trouble on these sites. I've talked to my kids about not setting up accounts on these sites, don't put your picture or personal info. on these sites--because there are predators out there who can search you down and hurt you. Well, apparently my words fell on deaf ears because last night, to my horror, my kids yearbook.com sites were discovered. Not only had they set up accounts, they had posted pictures and given out where we lived as well. Harmless? Maybe. Maybe NOT! I felt like someone drew a giant target on my house saying this is wear naive little children live--pedophiles look here! I deactivated their accounts, but we all know that once you put something online it's there for good. I was horrified at the quizzes that are on these sites, all about sex, the kind you should have and whether or not you're bi. Ahhhhh! My kids aren't old enough for this! I'm not old enough for this! Girls in scanty dress sending my son messages wanting to be his "friend." Yeah right, more like a fat old greasy man, stuck to his arm chair by his own sweat, surfing the net for gullible kids.

I had a long chat with my kids, they were not very happy with me--but I think they understand the danger. I couldn't believe it though, lots of the kids around here had sites, and I was appalled at the things these kids were saying and posting. PARENTS BEWARE! Your kids might very well be doing things you don't know about. My computer in in the center of the house, they aren't allowed on it without us knowing, so, how did this happen? I do let them use the computer while I'm cleaning the house, not playing Gestapo and staring at every screen they look at--it happened right under my nose. It could most certainly happen to you.

While we were talking, we got a message from a buddy of mine--an Amber Alert actually. It was for a lovely little 13 year old girl from Rolla, MO. She had been abducted. We opened it up and this led to an entirely new conversation. I went online to try to lock our computer out of these sites, no luck as of yet, however, to my great relief (NOT), it has a pointer for parents--it says to warn your children that people may not be who they say they are online--duh! duh! duh! Thanks for the insight! Then, if that doesn't make you feel all warm and cozy, they then give you the link and contact info. for missing and exploited children. Yes, they know what they're doing and they allow it anyway. I am sick! I feel like there is a monster lurking in the computer--I just hope and pray that this lesson serves us well and they actually listen this time!

I have a wonderful friend, who will most likely read this, whose husband is in law enforcement, and I have heard him say on many occasions that these sites are dangerous! This is so serious! We only get one chance with our kids, take this one to talk to them and warn them--no matter how uncool of a parent it makes you! Please talk to your kids, I thought my kids weren't participating in these site--I was so wrong! "Cool" can go take a flying leap as far as I'm concerned, if it means being the most uncool mom on earth I'll take if it keeps my family safe from the predators that surf the net looking for kids that think "it will never happen to me!" Until it does.

Thankful....I couldn't say it any better than this

I want to be Elmo!

Hmmmm? If I were Elmo, I'd live on the greatest street on earth, everyone would always be smiling; Dorothy would be my fish, and Andrea Bocelli would sing me sweet lullabies--what a life eh?

Yearbookyourself.com Part 2

Ha! Ha! Ha! I've been rolling on the floor playing with this site and pictures of all of you! Here are a few more of my lovely hair dos!

Yearbookyourself.com

This was too funny! I went on my buddy Renee's blog, which is too funny I might add, and she recommended that we try this site--oh my! Too funny! Check it out!

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween! Ali was a graveyard fairy, Taylon was a jail-bird and Zach was a soldier; Winkie Marie was a hot dog--with ketchup!

Taxi!

The American Dietetic Association had their yearly conference this year in Chicago, and I had the opportunity to attend with Dietary Consultants Inc. For my research at the UK I am looking into the resting metabolic rate of frail elderly using indirect calorimetry, and the wonderful ladies I am working with were presenting at the pre-FNCE conference. We had so much fun! We stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel right on Michigan Ave., just across the river of the Magnificent Mile. We were right next to the Spider-Man building--the Chicago Tribune historical building.

One morning at about 6:00, my friend and I took a taxi to attend a "raisin breakfast." The California Raisin Co., was sponsoring a lovely catered breakfast for dietitians at the conference and we decided to go, we didn't get far before trouble found us. We were just passing the Sears Tower when we turned left onto Jackson St. and I looked out my window to see a terrifying sight! There was a car coming right at my door! My friend was looking out the other window and didn't see it coming, I'll tell you what, there are few things as scary as thinkin your life is about to end--I truly did think I wasn't going to walk away from that Taxi. I screamed and the next thing I knew I was thrown across the backseat of the taxi when the other car slammed into our car right where I was sitting. Luckily no one was seriously hurt, I just got a massive bruise up my right arm, a cut on my knee and some whiplash. The worst part was the run in my last pair of nylons (ha! ha! ha!) We did get out of the car okay and made it to our breakfast, but it was a scary experience which required some serious decompressing afterward.

The night before our raisin breakfast escapade we had the marvelous opportunity to hear from Chris Gardner, the author of the Pursuit of Happyness. If you ever get the chance to meet or hear him speak--jump on it! It was likely the finest and most moving presentation I've attended. It's rare to hear from someone who really gets what life is all about!

Just by a lucky co-inky-dink, my dad was in Chicago for business at the same time. I was able to catch up with him and we had a great dinner at Portillos. If any of you know my dad you know what a funny guy he is!

The Moon Bow

In Corbin, KY, there is a beautiful waterfall called Cumberland Falls. About 2 weeks out of the year during a full moon, a moon bow can be seen all the way in outer space--it is the only one of its kind in North America. I had to go down to do a few inspections of some restaurants and so we all went and stayed in a hotel so I could get some work done over a few days time. We hiked to the falls and it truly was beautiful! We also got lost hiking--it was GREAT! There is nothing as fun as hiking through the woods and exploring, I've never been one for staying on the trail. My kids think I'm nuts, but I sure have fun!

Colonel Sanders of KFC is from Corbin, and we went to his original home where he invented the world famous chicken we all love. It was such a cute little house, it's now a KFC, and museum in one. IT has his original kitchen and some other originals that he had while he was in Corbin.

I'm the Weakest Link

I got the most magnificent surprise! Austin got down on one knee and in his hand he had my platinum ring! The one that I thought he took back to the store. He then went on to tell me that he has only one weakness, and it's ME! How sweet! Then he continued to inform me that I'm worth it and he doesn't care how much it cost he just wanted me to have it because I loved it! Oh! I was, and am, breathless! I got to be a princess for the day! So, on my finger is the most beautiful (non) nickel containing ring you've ever seen!

What Does It Mean When You're Allergic to Your Wedding Ring?

Almost a year ago now, I started showing signs of some pretty serious contact dermatitis under my wedding band--hmmmm, okay. So, I took it off for a week or so and put lotion on it until it healed up. Within 24 hours of putting my ring back on, WHAM! my finger broke out again! ARGH! Well, this time I left it off for a longer period of time to really let it heal, to no avail, my darn finger not only broke out this time, it also left some lovely sores where my ring was. As we all understand what a HUGE pain it is to get in to see the doctor, I put it off and put it off until finally my poor hubby started feeling shunned at my naked finger. I finally made an appointment with the dermatologist only to be told that I am allergic to NICKEL--yep! Nickel! Guess what, all gold and white gold bands have nickel in them--so much for ever being able to wear my wedding ring again.

So, my question is this..... Is this an omen??? --Just Kiddin'---I love my sweetie!

The horrible, terrible bad news is this....I have to get an "ooh, la, la" platinum wedding ring. Yes, I know! The prospect is horrible I must admit:) We finally found an victorian style band that was just lovely, I fell instantly in love with it! We bought it and I wore it for about 2 weeks! It was a glorious two weeks, it sparkled and sparkled..I was a princess. This princess took Zachary to the orthodontist only to be told that he would have to have braces, again, on the top and the bottom. This bill would only run at $4,500--and that's after my insurance pays for half of it. So, my ring went back to the store...good bye princess Julie, hello brace-face Zachary:) He's such a handsome brace-face too.

Anywhoooo....to make a long story short....don't judge someone's marital status by their finger, you never know, they could be allergic to nickel, have a son with really expensive teeth, and a desire to not rack up a $10,000 bill just to have a sparkle on their finger. I'm seriously contemplating a yellow Sharpie to the ring finger, what do you think, would it look real?

Maxell Peterson; May 28, 1999-Sept 26, 2008

To my friend Maxie, good bye little buddy! We will always love and remember you! We will see you again someday! Thanks for making us laugh, thanks for making us smile! You were, and always will be more than a pet, you are family; and families are forever. I'm so sorry I didn't keep you safe, I'm sorry I couldn't stop that car! We will always love you little friend!

Winchester Sun Article

Monday September 15, 2008

At the end of the rainbow
By Julie Peterson

It’s a well known tale, interlacing itself into American folklore from the Irish; the tale tells that if you have “luck of the Irish,” and find the end of the rainbow; you’ll find a pot of gold. Look no further. The end of the rainbow now comes right to you! Yes, that is correct, right to you, straight from the farm and into your local grocery store.

There’s a kaleidoscope of vitamin and nutrient packed goodness in the produce, frozen foods, baking and canned foods section of your local supermarket.

The CDC, Department of Health and Human Services, the National Cancer Institute and USA.gov are now sponsoring “Fruits & Veggies More Matters.” This program replaces the “5-to-9-a-Day” program, which has been the national guideline regarding the intake of fruits and veggies.

Evidently, there is more than just a pot of gold at the end of that rainbow, there also appears to be a potential benefit to reduce your risk of certain chronic diseases.

In addition to the health benefits, they’re the ultimate convenient food provided by Mother Nature herself. They’re quick, delicious and come in over "200+ taste sensations!"

When Little Jack Horner sat in his corner eating his minced meat pie, sticking in his thumb, and pulling out a plum, then saying, “What a good boy am I!” he already knew the health benefits that come from eating his fruits & veggies. It takes more than one plum however, and by accessing http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematter.org. you can find out just how much you need individually. Once you access the site, you enter in your gender, age and activity level into a table and the Web site will immediately tell you how many servings of fruits and how many servings of veggies you need for your age and activity level.

It seems a daunting task to squeeze in all those fruits and veggies, but isn’t it worth it?
Rather than trying to add more food to your plate, try substituting fruits and veggies for what’s already on your plate. Half of what you eat during the day should come from fruits and veggies.
Adding fruits and veggies can actually simplify your food preparation time; replace instant mashed potatoes for a fresh baked potato in the microwave. Trade out pastas and heavily buttered breads for some lightly seasoned frozen veggies.
Frozen veggies now come in ready- to-steam packages. All you have to do is toss them in the microwave for the allotted time, and voila! You have a magnificent and colorful side dish. Cut down on your meat portions and keep them simple to save time. Fill up half your plate with a lovely salad, topped with a low-cal dressing and a few of your favorite dried fruits and nuts. Cut up a fresh apple or melon, perhaps some sliced strawberries mixed with pineapple and fresh blueberries for a mouth-watering fruit salad.

Fruits and veggies are naturally bursting with flavor, you don’t have to go through many steps to prepare a meal your family will love, and they’ll love you for making it.
This Web site also offers a database of all the fruits and veggies you can imagine, in that database you’ll find all the nutritional information you will ever need about any fruit or veggie of you choose.

Additionally, you will find fun family activities for grocery shopping. Activities such as allowing your children to go on a treasure hunt for colors; let them help create new combinations of fruits and veggies.

If you have preschoolers, try going on an ABC trip to the produce section: look for foods that start with letter “A,” avocados, apples etc… what sound does “A” make? Have a “B,” day, serve broccoli, bananas, butternut squash etc. You can enjoy your shopping trip with a bit of preparation on your part.

The Web site lists the “Top 10 Planning and Shopping Tips” to help you have more time and more money for nutritious meals:
1. Dried fruits. Dress up your cereal and salads and try them as a quick snack
2. Leftovers. Re-create a meal for a whole new meal by adding new fruits and veggies.
3. Convenience. Pick up canned and frozen fruits and vegetables.
4. Experiment. Try a new fruit or vegetable or try fixing it a different way.
5. Seasoning combinations. Buy plain, unseasoned vegetables and create your own flavoring.
6. 100 percent juice. Look for that “100 percent.”
7. Smoothies for breakfast. Frozen fruit is great in a smoothie on the run.
8. Easy to grab and go. Fill up your fruit bowl so your family can grab and go.
9. Meatless meals. Plan one meal a week with no meat, try using beans, this will save you in the time and money department.
10. Make more. Plan to have leftovers, then you have a ready-made meal for another evening.
Follow the rainbow! Make it your priority to brighten up your meals with some fresh, canned dried or frozen fruits and veggies!

There are limitless possibilities, join the millions who are enjoying the benefits of a healthier lifestyle through “Fruits and Veggies More Matters!”

Copyright:The Winchester Sun 2008 "

My Wonderful Family

My oldest brother Bryce moved to the Philippines over 5 years ago, and it's been several years since I've seen him or his family. While overseas they fostered two little Filipino girls, and were lucky enough to adopt one of them, her name is Natalie, and she is almost 2. We've all wanted to meet her in person, and finally--we all got the chance to! Bryce and his family have come home, they bought a home in Illinois; not too far from here. My youngest brother, Chance, and his wife Alyse and son Dante planned a trip to come out an visit. So, my sister, Niesja, and her son Ethan, decided that they would fly out of LA and come visit too! Hooray! We were all going to be together again at last! All except for Justin, and voila! he decided to fly out too! Here are some pictures of our family trip to King's Island, and Zachary's ordination to become a teacher. We then went to Bryce's house and swam in his pool, and Bryce then blessed her while we were all able to be there! It was so much fun to see everyone together again! I've missed not having them around to tease and play cards with--I love to win! Anyway! I just wanted to express my love to my family, and share with all of you how happy I am to know that families really are forever!

My second exciting article in the world famous Winchester Sun!!!

Monday August 25, 2008
Cholesterol Limbo: How low can you go?
By Julie Peterson Clark County Health Department

In 1962 Chubby Checker blared from the radio with “Limbo Rock.” Party-goers everywhere jammed to, “Limbo lower now! How low can you go?”

When dancing to the limbo, the dancer sways to the rhythm, leans backward and dances under a horizontal stick or pole without touching it. If the dancer touches the pole or falls backward, they’re “out!”

Just as the dancer must move under the pole in a smooth motion, so must cholesterol be able to move smoothly through the circulatory system of the body. If there is too much cholesterol trying to move through the blood, it will start to stick to arterial walls and cause build-up, making it more difficult for blood to maneuver through the body.

Just as the pole gets closer to the ground; making it more likely that the dancer will fall and be “out,” this build-up of cholesterol makes it more likely that you may end up “out” too, (out of commission that is).

Although cholesterol is not the only factor leading to heart disease and atherosclerosis (the hardening of artery walls), it is a major component, one that you can control.

Limbo comes from the word “limber.” Limber means to bend or flex readily; being pliable. Limber, or flexible, is a desirable characteristic for your arteries, or in other words, free from arterial build-up that comes from too much cholesterol.

What is cholesterol? Where does it come from? How can cholesterol be bad, and good? My doctor gave me all these numbers, what am I suppose to do with them?
Do you feel like there’s too much information, or as your kids might say, TMI? It can be overwhelming, but well worth your while to research and make sure you understand exactly what high cholesterol can mean to your health.

Knowing your numbers is the first step to controlling them. Once you get your cholesterol tested, use the following as a guideline for determining where your levels fall:

LDL cholesterol: less than 100, optimal; 100-129, near optimal; 130-159, borderline high; 160-189 high; greater than 190 high
Total cholesterol: less than 200, desirable; 200-239, borderline high; greater than 240, high
HDL cholesterol: less than 40, low; greater than 60, optimal
Triglycerides: less than 150, normal; 150-199, borderline high; 200-499, high; greater than 500, very high

Cholesterol is found naturally in your body and your blood. Your liver is the main producer of cholesterol, but you also get cholesterol through your diet, primarily through animal products. There is no cholesterol in natural plant foods.

When your doctor tells you your total cholesterol, your doctor is not referring to just your LDL (bad cholesterol) and your HDL (good cholesterol) added together. There is one more component that you must consider; your VLDL, very-low-density lipoprotein, which carries triglycerides throughout your blood. Just as high LDL levels are associated with coronary heart disease high VLDL levels are as well. VLDL levels are important, however, HDL and LDL levels have a greater impact on heart health. Keep in mind that you not only need to keep LDL low, but HDL needs to be high; this ratio is important.

September is “National Lower your Cholesterol Month.” Make it a goal this month to get your levels checked, and to discuss the results with your doctor.

Cholesterol has a partner in crime, saturated fats. You may find a product label that states it is cholesterol free. Make sure you take a second look. Look at the saturated fat, and total fat as well.

Cholesterol does not cause heart disease alone. Genetics, lifestyle and diet all play important roles in the “limber” state of your arteries. Common misconceptions about cholesterol are: Women don’t have to worry about high cholesterol; thin people don’t have high cholesterol; children can’t have high cholesterol; using margarine instead of butter will lower my cholesterol; my doctor never said I have high cholesterol, so I don’t have to worry about it.
The answer to all these statements is false. Anyone can have high cholesterol, regardless of gender, weight or age.

According to the American Heart Association, “high blood cholesterol signals a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. That’s why it’s important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly.”

If you’ve found out you have high cholesterol, you’re in luck, that means you’ve got time to bring it down before you’re “out” of the dance. Exercise! Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, and reduce the amount of cholesterol and saturated fats you consume. Keep on dancing! Turn on a little Chubby Checker and stay in the game, it’s worth it!

Some great resources to find out more:
The Johns Hopkins Complete Guide for Avoiding Heart Disease: Beyond Cholesterol. By Peter Kwiterovich, M.D. (Available at the Clark County Library)
Visit http://americanheart.org to learn more about heart disease.Copyright:The Winchester Sun 2008 "

Prayer is like Brushing your Teeth

I got the cutest handout at church today, it was attached to a toothbrush and given to all the primary kids.

"Saying your prayers is like brushing your teeth--
it's a habit you form, a commitment you keep.
You should brush your teeth both morning and night,
the same with your prayer is you're saying them right.
Don't let your spirit or teeth begin to decay--
PRAY (and brush) at least twice a day!

The Window PAIN!---Ouch! That's Gonna Hurt!

It was such a beautiful night, the kids were in the backyard playing catch--I'm so glad I had the boys play baseball this summer--they can really pack a punch with the ball. Boy did that ball pack a punch, right through my kitchen window! Austin and I heard a SMASH! we ran in to the kitchen and the ball flew right threw 2 panes of the bay window.when I looked out and saw Taylon with those big brown eyes with just a tad of fear in them, I knew who had done it. He put his hand up to his face and said, "Mom, are you mad?" How do you respond to that? Of course I wasn't mad, I was speechless, there was glass everywhere, all the way into the next room. So, I told him to just put his toys down and go for a walk for a minute while we cleaned up all the glass--and for his protection, I didn't want to say anything inappropriate for little ears.We laugh now, the window is covered in plastic and purple tape--all I had was purple, I didn't want bugs coming in the house, so purple it is. We called the insurance company, and we have a $750 deductible, oh good! I'm so glad everything that happens always hits a dollar amount just under $750. Oh well, at least it was our window this time instead of the neighbors. I would much rather clean up glass than have to apologize to the neighbors about their broken window.So, that was our adventure for the week, and then Friday morning I was riding my bike to work and hit a slick patch, I wear clips on my shoes, so I couldn't get my feet out off the pedal in time, and I ended up on the pavement. It was my first official accident on my new road bike, I love it! But I don't love what it did to my leg and my left cheek--or my pride for that matter. Butt (ha! ha! ha!a) all is well, we are all doing just fine, and we will hopefully have a new window before the rain hits next week.

My first official publication

Monday June 30, 2008

Go Nuts This Summer

By Julie H. Peterson, Clark County Health Department

Garfield, the famous fat cat created by Jim Davis, gives us some dietary counsel which we should kindly disregard: “Avoid fruits and nuts. After all, you are what you eat.”
Researchers have proven time and time again that the addition of nuts to a healthy diet is not associated with weight gain, but is actually more closely related to weight loss when used in moderation.
Nonetheless, our friendly feline is definitely correct that “you are what you eat.” Nuts are a highly nutritious and power-packed food that offers many health related benefits.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced the following qualified health claim for nuts as they relate to heart disease: “Scientific evidence suggests 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.”
This health claim has currently been approved for almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts. Each of these nuts has 4 grams or less of saturated fat per every 50 grams consumed.
So what is a serving size of each of these nuts? What is 1.5 ounces? If you don’t have a kitchen scale, you’re in luck. Use the following guidelines from the International Tree Nut Council to round out one serving of heart-healthy nuts: almonds, 20 to 24 nuts; Brazil nuts, 6 to 8; pecans, 18 to 20 nuts; pine nuts, 150 to 157 nuts; pistachios, 45 to 47 nuts; walnuts, 6 to 11 halves; hazelnuts, 15 to 20 nuts; macadamias, 10 to 12 nuts; and cashews, 16 to 18 nuts.
What about the rumor that nuts are high in fat? Well, yes, it’s not just a rumor. Nuts are fairly high in fat, but most of that is unsaturated fat, such as polyunsaturated (PUFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA). PUFAs and MUFAs can remarkably decrease your LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels.
When trying to integrate nuts into your diet, try using them as a substitute for a less healthy option, rather than just an addition to your current diet. For example, try eating a handful of nuts instead of snacking on potato chips.
Another option would be when you are baking cookies, rather than adding chocolate chips, sprinkle in some fresh roasted nuts of your choice. Nuts have the ability to keep you full for a longer period of time; this can help you keep those food cravings at bay when used in moderation. Nuts are an excellent choice when planning a weight loss diet.
Nuts have other health benefits besides helping to reduce your risk of heart disease. Nuts contain antioxidants and phytochemicals which may help to prevent other chronic diseases such as the development of cancer, diabetes, cataracts and lung and cardiovascular disease. Nuts are also a healthy option in obtaining sufficient protein in your diet.
Consider adding a flavorful boost to your diet this summer, and add additional health benefits through your favorite nut selections. Nuts go great with just about any recipe. Here are some suggestions from the International Tree Nut Council:
— Go meatless: Nuts are a great source of protein. Toss them into stir-frys, salads and pasta.
— Top with nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on a bowl of soup, veggie dish or your favorite casserole.
— Start your day with nuts: Experiment with different tree nuts in your favorite muffin or pancake recipes. Sprinkle nuts on yogurt or hot or cold cereal.
— Nuts are great with cheese: Add tree nuts to cheese and fruit platters and serve as an appetizer or a special dessert.
Remember: Nuts can be stored up to six months in the refrigerator and up to a year when kept in the freezer, according to the International Tree Nut Council. Liven up your diet; find a new favorite “nutty” recipe and enjoy yourself this summer!
Check out these great Web sites for more information and some “nut”rageous recipes!
The Nut Factory
International Nut and Dried Fruit Council

Julie Peterson is a University of Kentucky dietetics intern for the Clark County Health Department.

Copyright:The Winchester Sun 2008 "

Move it!

In order to get my kids to step up their activity level, I got them each a pedometer. They've been dying to go to King's Island, so, I informed them that if they could walk there, I'd take them. So, now even when they are watching TV, or need something to do, they run in place, they run up and down the stairs over and over, they even argue about who gets to take the dog for a walk. Ali runs in place while she watches TV, it's been great! The best part of it is that when bedtime approaches, they are exhausted! I love it! It's the best purchase I've made all year.

The pedometers were more than affordable---only $2.99 each--- they are multicolored so they all have their own color, Ali's is pink, Zach's is white and Tay has a black one. Go to Amazon.com and type in pedometer, it's the 3rd one down I believe, "Multifunction Pedometer with Steps, Distance & Calories." I decided that I'm going to continue on with this too! I'm going to have a prize, or a benefit of some sort for each week, or maybe each month--like a date with daddy, or maybe a hike with mom---something that still has to do with activity--perhaps bowling or swimming---anyway, I wanted to share with you my success in getting my kids moving! They fight less, they play more! What more could you ask for??? (Besides a million bucks so you can fill your gas tank).

Kentucky Fried What???

This one is for you Renee, this is so gross! Someone here is Kentucky apparantly got tired of fried squirrel and decided to serve up cicadas instead. My stomach is just heaving at the thought of it. We ahve been plagued with cicadas this year, their screeching is deafening all day long. The trees are covered in them, they have actually broken branches from their weight. Ah! I am just not a bug lady!

Tuesday June 17, 2008
Deeeeelicious: Sun staff took a different approach to its research on the 17-year cicada Hint: It involves Crisco
By Acquanetta G. Donnell Jr.
People in Winchester have gotten used to the noisy 17-year cicadas being everywhere, but it may take longer to get used to the taste.
For the Sun’s Monday Webcast, reporters Mike Wynn and Katheran Wasson invited some people downtown for lunch. While other staff members shot video, Wynn rolled a few bugs in a light brown, seasoned batter, fried them in oil at 325 degrees, waited for them to cool off, then served them to visitors.
Attorney William Elkins, one of the participants in the cicada tasting, said, “It was just an irresistible temptation when (Wynn) invited me to join him in the sampling of this local delicacy.”
With several Sun staffers and passersby making up what Wasson referred to as the newspaper’s “first-ever audience” for its Webcast, Wynn, Elkins, Sun Community Editor Rachel Parsons, Clark County Emergency Management Director Gary Epperson and County Judge-Executive Henry Branham all sampled the deep-fried insects.
Not everyone could believe his or her eyes as the tasters popped the bugs into their mouths and chewed.
“Oh, my word!” said one woman, as others laughed.
“I think it sort of has a hushpuppy consistency,” Elkins said.
“It’s the best thing I’ve eaten all day,” Epperson joked.
When Wynn asked Epperson what it reminded him of, he said: “An insect.”
Later Wynn and Wasson took some carryout to Sheriff Berl Perdue at his office and let him try one.
“It’s not bad,” he said.
Asked what it tasted like, Perdue replied: “I would say chicken, but it doesn’t taste like chicken.” It was more like deep-fried bread, he added.
Parsons, who made a face when she bit into one, said they were crunchy, but “did not have much of a taste.”
“I don’t think I need to eat them again,” she said.
Elkins later said he would eat them again “if it’s for a good cause.”
Some people call cicadas “locusts,” but they are not closely related to real locusts, which look like grasshoppers. They neither bite nor sting, and only come around every 17 years for about a month.
According to National Geographic News, cicadas are said to be good for eating because they are low in fat and high in protein. They are considered a delicacy by many people around the world.
Contact Acquanetta Donnell at adonnell@winchestersun.com.Copyright:The Winchester Sun 2008 "

Flying Trampolines and Fist Fights

You know how when you're a kid, you hear everyone tell you that you should always know what you're going to do in a situation, so when something happens, you'll be prepared with an out, or the right action to take. Well, I have news for you, I never expected this to happen.

It was early in the morning, and it had been raining all night, we were under a severe weather warning, and I was lying in bed listening to the rain. Every now and again there would be a clap of thunder, and every once in a while the rain would really pound the roof top. Just like clock work, BOOM! thunder? Nope! Think again! Austin ran upstairs and said he just watched our trampoline lift up off the ground, fly 50 feet in the air and fly right over the top of our neighbors house. The boom, was not thunder, it was our trampoline responding to gravity. Immediately I jumped out of bed--wearing my favorite polka-dot pajamas--of course. We put all the kids, the dog, and the cat downstairs, just in case, and we hopped in the car to search for the blasted thing. Boy were we in for a surprise when we found a young girl standing beside, not a car, but a smashed SUV. Oh joy! Next to the SUV, was none other than our infamous flying trampoline. The girl did not look happy, and she came up to our window, dripping rain down her face, and said that someone's *&^$(@ trampoline smashed her car. Oh dear, how awkward! I gently told her that it was our trampoline, and she immediately said that we ruined her car! Ah! I said, "No, this was an accident, the wind did this." She was not at all appeased, in fact I think it ticked her off even more. She wrote down our information, and we told her we'd be right back to get things squared away. There was another storm system on its way, so we wanted to get things done asap. It was still pouring rain, but we went back and loaded bits and pieces of busted trampoline into the back of the Tahoe. Austin filed a claim with out insurance, and we went to the dump to get the trampoline taken care of. While we were away, the young girl's mother returned from what I'm assuming is a job as Satan's little helper. She was at our door, horns and pitchfork at the ready. She was irate that we weren't still at her house sweeping up glass. We had just walked in the stupid door! Pardon my french, but if anyone is the big "B" word, she's it. So, she wants us to go rent her daughter a car, immediately. We kindly told her that we had already contacted our insurance, and they were working on it, she still wanted it taken care of, NOW! Well, after a bit of an argument, I invited her to GET OUT OF MY HOUSE! There was no working with this woman. So, we were told that it was all our fault, we never should have had a trampoline in the first place, and that she was going to sue us. Oh dear! This is where I lost it, I started bawling, I called my daddy, cause that's what daddies are for, and blurted out the whole sob story. I love my dad! He called her up, from 2000 mile away, and blasted her. Hee! Hee! Hee! I can laugh now. Anyway, to bring this long drawn out drama to an end, our insurance concluded that no one was at fault, it was a complete act of nature, and they would take care of it 100%--no deductible. Whew! We are never buying another trampoline--Never! You were right Mr. Scott Fitzgerald, trampolines are nothing but trouble waiting to happen.

Well, a few days later, I was going to pick up Taylon from baseball practice, when I noticed 2 big and burly guys jump out of a minivan and whack this guy in the back, and then punch him in the face. The poor guy went down for the count! Then, they continued to punch and kick him, he tried to get up, and they slammed him back on the ground and kicked him until he could barely move. He was bleeding all over, and I was honking my horn, hoping they'd realize someone saw them and they'd leave, no way! They just kept at it, so I called 911. After what seemed like forever, they left the poor guy lying on the sidewalk and drove away. I jumped out of the car and ran over to help him. His hand was hamburger, and his head was cut open and I know his nose was broken. This poor guy couldn't even stand up. I got some towels from a house nearby and some ice and held them over his head wound and his nose while he held a towel over his hand until the ambulance arrived. I never expected to see a guy get pummeled when I left the house, and I can't believe that people would act like that! So, as far as making up your mind as to what you're going to do beforehand, I've decided that I am just going to try to be the best person I can be, and try to not cry about everything. Hopefully I can keep a level head the next time something wild and wacky happens.

"Wax on, Wax off" (If you're lucky anyway)

On a stormy Friday evening, I was relaxing watching the tube, when suddenly there was a quick rap at the door, and Taylon burst in out of breath. He had run up the stairs to bring a tale of woe and misery, a tale, that would ultimately lead to utter destruction! Panting, and hardly able to control his desire to get his brother and sister in trouble, he spilled a tale of pillows being thrown in the living room, and one landing SMACK! right in the middle of my Scentsy. (It's basically a large candle warmer). As I ran down the stairs to take inventory of the damage, I was beside myself, and as governor and president of this house, I thereby declared it in a state of emergency! There was wax on the walls, wax on the splash board in the kitchen, wax on the floor, wax in the sink, wax on the soap, wax on the dishes, you name it, and it was splattered with red smelly wax! Ali was frantically scrubbing the wall, scrubbing so hard infact, that she scrubbed the paint right off the wall, as well as the wall beneath, creating a lovely, if not a bit modern and contemporary hole--or new addtion to my living room--it really is quite lovely, I wish you could all see it. It is now well after the actual occurrence, and still, I am scrubbing wax out of grout, and finding wax bits everywhere! Curse you wax maufacturers, for not making a kid friendly wash away wax. I'm going to patent the Karate Kid candle, it will say, "No worries mom! wax spill? Wax on, wax off! It's as simple as that!"

The Shakers, and we're NOT talkin' salt 'n pepper darlin'

The Shakers began when a group of religious zealots decided that they wanted equality, and pure devotion to God. They felt that a life of celibacy was the only way this could be accomplished, yep! that's right, no sex. Zero! Zip! Nada wink! They even had seperate doors that the men and women had to go in and out of, they lived in different sections of the villages, they couldn't talk to one another unless it related to work, they even had seperate staircases so they wouldn't see one another. It is the most beautiful place on earth, you couldn't ask for more lovely scenery, but, like I said, no foolin' around dude! Not even a smooch! Well, surprise surprise, there is only one village of Shakers left, and this village is now a tourist attraction. We took my mom and Grandpa Peterson on a tour, and had a wonderful homecooked meal just like the Shakers would serve, eaten and served in their hotel in Pleasant Valley. There are the spiffiest little shops with demonstrations going on, and it really is fascinating! If you ever get the chance, and can keep your hands off each other for the day(ha! ha! ha!) grab your sweetie and head to Shaker Village just outside Lexington, KY. We loved it! I know you would too!

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"Condulations Mom" An Aligator congrats!

Oh happy day! graduation has come and gone, and it was a lovely event! Thank heaven we made it! Grandma Hayes and Grandpa Peterson were here to see it all! Ali wrote me a lovely letter with a certificate, that read, "Certificate of Condulations, You made it mom, we thought you never would!" Hmmm? Not sure what to think about that one.