HOLIDAY GIFTING GUIDE

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HEALTHY EATING

Over the past year, I’ve written a number of articles on eating and cooking as it related to health and wellness.  These articles included objective reviews of organic and natural food products, cookbooks, restaurants and cooking prep tools, as well as interviews with chefs and wellness experts. 

While we need food to survive, the quality and choices of food has an impact on our nutritional health and well being.  I sometimes recall some of my earlier food choices, often cringing at what I used to put on my plate, including portion sizes.  Maturity offers the luxury of reflective assessment and learning from it; and while I’m by no means an expert on nutrition or dietary, I’m at least making a more concerted effort to stay informed, ask questions, read labels and cultivate the discipline to take passes on food choices that aren’t necessarily the healthiest.  So, this has been my experience and yours may be different.

A few important things I’ve learned along the way about healthy eating and food choices ~

·       Have a strategy and focus on it, but never beat yourself up if you meander from it.

·       Be steady and consistent.

·       Portion control is key.

·       Less is more.

·       Quality always trumps quantity.

·       Consume moderately and modestly.

·       Have a varied and diverse diet.

·       Avoid diets that are a fad or trend.

·       Never jeopardize your health for the sake of a food fad or trend.

·       When in doubt, ask your doctor, especially if you’re taking medications, have a compromised immune system.

·       Go for better food choices that are fresh, seasonal, natural, organic and unprocessed.

·       Eating involves engaging all of the senses; they’re the key indicators.  

·       Your health is a work in progress and a process. 

Following are some recent healthy food-related discoveries I wanted to share with you. 

~ Food to Enjoy ~

Dannon Oikos Greek Yogurt ~

According to the Dannon website “…what makes Greek yogurt different from regular yogurt? We make our authentic Greek yogurt with a centuries-old straining method that removes the whey (liquid) from the yogurt. Called "yiaourti" in Greece, Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, and its production requires about three times the amount of milk used to make regular yogurt…” I’ve actually tried making my own Greek yogurt a few times; it’s a good substitute in a pinch, but can’t compare to authentically prepared Greek yogurt.  Greek yogurt is THE yogurt right now and depending on which brand selected, the tastes will vary, as will the price.  Dannon Oikos Greek Yogurt has found a way to authentically prepare its varieties with all of the healthy bacteria in it, and also without the fat content, often found in other brands.  The consistency is extremely rich and creamy.  While the Fruit At The Bottom varieties are delicious, I especially enjoyed the versatility of the Plain variety.  Using the Plain variety as a substitution in recipes that traditionally call for mayonnaise, sour cream or cream cheese, was a no-brainer.  Any recipe I used the Oikos Greek Yogurt in tasted delicious, making them healthier versions.  Dannon has also teamed up with Chef Richard Blais, an esteemed restaurateur, chef, author, television personality and winner of Bravo’s Top Chef All-Stars.  He has created a number of recipes of holiday favorites using the Dannon Oikos Fat-Free Greek Yogurt that are healthier versions of traditional food-fare. http://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt/

Ikaati Tea ~

Ikaati is a celebration of time, taste and tradition.  Its foundational philosophy, “…that our well-being is enriched by health, pleasure and beauty….”, is the basis of their three collections, Nourish, Savor and Heritage.  These artisanal white, green and black teas are harvested from tea regions in Asia, including the Himalayas and Fujian China.  Nourish is an herbal tisane collection for promoting health; Savor combines subtle infusions of fruit and flowers; and, Heritage offers single note estate teas.  No matter which variety I tried, I found them to be refreshing, pure and clean; the flavors were never over-powering and retained a consistent depth of flavor throughout the entire cup.  These varieties can stand on their own, without adding any lemon or sweetener and were perfectly balanced each and every time brewed.  I also liked each artisan-crafted silken tea pouch that was hand tied.  As I grasped my cup of tea and inhaled the warmth of its sweet and soothing vapors, I was reminded of how much I needed to step back, breathe deeply and relax. http://www.ikaati.com/

One Degree Organic Foods ~

This company makes a variety of USDA Certified Organic, including high-fiber whole grain breads. I had the pleasure of trying their USDA Certified Organic Veganic Organic Breads in Lentil Grain, Ancient Whole Wheat, Flax and Spelt, and Sesame Sunflower.  What is also innovative about these products is that the company prints out on each wrapper an OCR (optical character recognition) code and a tracking number; the OCR is for smartphone scans and the tracking number for online queries.  This information can be then be used by the consumer to obtain further information on the specific bread that is unique to its manufacturer.  Consumers are directed to a web page that not only lists the ingredients and nutritional content of their bread, but it will also identified which of their farms the grain came from to make their bread.  I enjoyed all four varieties and found each one quite delicious, with a moist chewiness, versus a cardboard consistency like so many other “comparable” whole grain high-fiber breads.  Toasting brought out the individual sweetness of the whole grain ingredients and each variety made a hearty and tasty French toast.  http://www.onedegreeorganics.com/product_categories

~ For Healthy Food Prep & Beyond ~

Knork Flatware ~

Eating implements are one of those things that people don’t pay too much attention too and treat as a mundane, albeit necessary component to dining.  However, Knork Flatware has found a way to elevate the eating implement to an art form.  Knork is ergonomically designed with sleek durability and proper balance to its shaft, making it intuitively natural to the eating process.  The curved head of the fork is designed for ease of cutting, where the edge functions like a knife, yet without any sharp angles; the inner tines are slightly scooped, making for effortless spearing, but also lifting.  Conventionally designed eating implements make eating clumsy, which also adds to putting stress to the wrist area in maneuverability.  The sleek design works well with formal and informal dining.  I found the big plus in its ergonomic design and ease of balancing the shaft of the implement while holding it; whether it was fork, knife or spoon, the mundane eating implement became the exceptional.  http://www.knork.net/

Microplane Kitchen Tools ~

Precision crafted Microplaning and Grating implements make healthy food preparation economical, efficient and effortless.  Use the whole food item with virtually no waste by making sure to use the proper plane and grater head to suit the task.  The tasks of ribbon planing and zesting/grating require two different heads to achieve the results.  Using a Ribbon planer is suitable for planing chocolate, carrot and soft cheeses.  Using a Zester/Grater (Premium Classic) planer is suitable for ginger, citrus, garlic, coconut and hard cheeses.  The tasks of coarse, fine and shaped grating also require different grates to achieve these results.  Using an Extra Coarse Grater is suitable for grating onion, potato, soft cheese, zucchini, carrots and cabbage.  Using a Star Grater (Gourmet Series), with its star-shaped grate heads, will yield fine and fluffy grates of hard cheeses such as Parmesan.  These lightweight implements have protective poly sleeves and non-skid easy grip handles.  The overall ergonomic design offers balance and stability; the Graters also have a non-skid end stabilizer strip.  No foodie should be without these implements.  http://us.microplane.com/microplanekitchentools.aspx

~ Healthy Dining Options ~

Fresco 21 A Mediterranean Kitchen ~

Fresco 21 A Mediterranean Kitchen opened its doors a few months ago with a mission to offer the freshest food fare that embraced the healthy profile of the Mediterranean diet, the concept of farm to table and sea to table, local and sustainable.  Fresco 21 is located in the InterContinental O’Hare Hotel (Rosemont, IL), in close proximity to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.  What many love about Mediterranean cuisine is that it’s fresh, pure and healthy.  It uses the freshest of ingredients in their natural state whether its from land and sea, and doesn’t require any additives, preservatives or processing, thereby maintaining food at its most natural and healthy state.  The Mediterranean cuisine is also one of the healthiest known cuisines around.  Fresco 21 is an authentic and upscale Mediterranean restaurant, which continues the tradition of offering healthy cuisine, while catering to all dietary needs.  Fresco 21’s culinary wizard Chef de Cuisine Cameron Grant created a delicious menu that includes cold and hot tapas, wood-fire pizzas, whole grain artisanal breads, seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, aged meats, free-range poultry, artisanal cheeses, and tantalizing sweets.  I recently had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant and enjoyed a sampling of menu items.  Each plate was distinctive and delicious and beautifully plated and visually attractive.  A few of the tastings included Seared Diver Scallop on Butternut Squash Puree, with Maple Syrup Gastrique, Brussels Sprout Leaves, Fried Artichoke and Black Pepper Accents, the Butternut Squash Ravioli with Wild Mushroom, Corn and Grape Tomatoes, Parmesan Cream; and, Lasagna Bolognese in a Red Wine, Veal Stock, Cream.  The flavors were fresh, vibrant, flavorful and delicious.  http://www.fresco21.com/

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Opening photo credit by weightlossdietwatch.com; all other photo creditss as represented by the specific brand.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized. 

THE CROWNING TOUCH

ANTHONY CRISTIANO SALON

TRUMP INTERNATIONAL HOTEL & TOWER CHICAGO

Trump International Hotel & Tower opened in Chicago in early 2008.  It had everything ~ residences, hotel rooms, meeting space, ballroom, bars, restaurants and my favorite, its fabulous Spa.  Here is where luxury was the exemplar and defined the legendary Trump Style.  Since it’s opening, I’ve had the privilege of reviewing the Spa a few times.  I’ve experienced extraordinary treatments that epitomize the best of spa, which is to relax, renew and restore.  Here’s a video clip of me querying Mr. Donald Trump at the splashy official opening and media event for Chicago’s finest, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYJS-S8v3v4

When Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago opened, it never had a beauty salon, despite the discriminating guest and local having everything else at their disposal, http://www.trumphotelcollection.com/chicago/.  Clearly, by finally opening a beauty salon at this location, it would secure being a one-stop experience for all-things esthetic and upscale. 

All good things are worth waiting for ~

With typical Trump Style, the Anthony Cristiano Salon http://anthonycristiano.com/salon was launched.  Cristiano brings with him decades of prominence among the celebrity, print and photography set with his impressive talents, and is highly regarded.  I had the pleasure of attending the recent invite-only Grand Opening.  The upscale Salon features some of the industry's finest luxury brands such as Leonor Greyl Paris, Phyto Paris and Caron Paris.  The Salon's minimalist design has a pristine white palette with black and bold chrome accents throughout.  The visuals are stunning and definitely upscale, fresh and trendy.  Guests will also love the massive windows throughout that give them a cityscape view that showcases this beautiful and vibrant city.  The Anthony Cristiano Salon is located on the mezzanine level; as a reference, the Spa is located on the fourteenth floor.

Near Chicago’s tony and iconic Mag Mile, Anthony Cristiano Salon is another reason to experience the finest Chicago has to offer.  The legend is now complete and continues to dazzle ~ in true Trump Style…..

Product Resources ~

Leonor Greyl Paris http://www.leonorgreyl-usa.com/

Phyto Paris http://www.phyto-usa.com/ 

Caron Paris http://www.parfumscaron.com/en/home.php

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized. 

LAKE GENEVA GO-AROUND

In late fall, I had another opportunity for a quick getaway to a favorite Midwestern destination of mine, Lake Geneva, WI.  My overnight stay was at the Abbey Resort & Avani Spa.  I finally had the opportunity to briefly check out the Grand Geneva Resort & WELL Spa; in all the years I’ve been visiting this area, I’ve never had the opportunity to check this resort out or its spa out.  At both spas, I’d also experience a treatment.  The evening brought a surprise dining experience at the fully restored Baker House.  Obviously with such a short amount of time in my schedule, I wasn’t able to fully take advantage of a special gathering of area journalists to explore the variety of activities, accommodations and eateries for singles, couples and families.  Of course, my hosts graciously extended a standing invitation for me to return to experience what I wasn’t able to experience this time around.  For me, the travel time from my home to this popular tourist destination is approximately two and one-half hours.  I’m already thinking about doing a return visit next spring. 

The allure of this destination may vary depending on what has drawn someone to its shores, but one thing is certain, each time a person returns, they discover new things about picturesque Lake Geneva and its beautiful Geneva Lake.  That newfound information always beckons their return!

An Historical Snapshot of The Newport of the West ~

“…The Lake Geneva area is unique for many reasons, including its incredible number of beautiful historic and contemporary mansions. The community began earning is nickname "The Newport of the West", almost from its official inception in 1836. The great Chicago fire brought increasing number of Chicagoans into the Lake Geneva area. Many had lost their homes and businesses in the fire and simply moved to Lake Geneva as a "temporary solution" while their homes and places of business were being rebuilt. Often, they elected to stay, lured by the expansive natural surroundings and solid job market that offered numerous farming and manufacturing opportunities. Others elected to stay, drawn by the new found quality of life they had discovered, and commute via rail to their businesses in Chicago. Over the years, many lovely homes, estates and cottages were built. Today, many of these homes still exist and can be seen along the Geneva Lake shoreline. The Lake Geneva area is unique for many reasons, including its incredible number of beautiful historic and contemporary mansions. The community began earning is nickname "The Newport of the West", almost from its official inception in 1836. The great Chicago fire brought increasing number of Chicagoans into the Lake Geneva area. Many had lost their homes and businesses in the fire and simply moved to Lake Geneva as a "temporary solution" while their homes and places of business were being rebuilt. Often, they elected to stay, lured by the expansive natural surroundings and solid job market that offered numerous farming and manufacturing opportunities. Others elected to stay, drawn by the new found quality of life they had discovered, and commute via rail to their businesses in Chicago. Over the years, many lovely homes, estates and cottages were built. Today, many of these homes still exist and can be seen along the Geneva Lake shoreline…”

My Brief Encounters ~

Abbey Resort & Avani Spa ~ A new addition to the Avani Spa’s impressive treatment menu is the Reflexology Treatment.  My therapist, Amanda, meticulously worked all of the major organ regions that run throughout my body, converging within the hands and feet.  One of the better such treatments I’ve received over the years.  It was both therapeutic and restorative.  My only disappointment was that lunch around the gorgeous Spa Pool was eerily quiet, because my timing was during the federal government mandate for all pool drains to be retrofitted for safety reasons.  http://www.theabbeyresort.com/

Grand Geneva Resort & WELL Spa ~ This resort was the former Playboy Club Mansion, which catered to golf and tennis, and the gawkers of the bunny-tail types.  The WELL Spa is housed in a separate building that also contains tennis, basketball and volleyball courts.  Although the walk from the main resort isn’t that great of a distance, I wouldn’t want to traipse from the lobby outdoor in frigid wintery weather to get from the resort to the WELL Spa.  Because my schedule was limited, I opted for the Signature Pedicure minus the color; Wendy, my technician, did a wonderful job of exfoliating, grooming and buffing; I also enjoyed the foot and leg massage.  http://www.grandgeneva.com

Baker House ~ A restored Victorian manor house that is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Baker House transports its guests to an era of fun and frivolity. Upon entering, period dressed staff greet guests and extend an invitation for them to select a vintage hat, which they’re encouraged to wear for the duration of their visit.  At sunset, all guests go to the picturesque front yard and after the bugler plays a flourish, a toast is made by all on the history of the manor house and the glorious setting sun amidst Geneva Lake as its backdrop.  Following the Sunset Toast, a tasting dinner of delicious cuisine was served on antique china followed by period costumed staff; guests were encouraged to sit in one of the restored rooms that harken to a bygone day where the stresses of life were inconsequential.  The food was as delicious as the visuals were tantalizing and unique experience.   

Before leaving, my group was given tours of the exquisitely decorated guest suites; each room was decorated differently with distinctive details reminiscent of the Victorian era.  http://www.bakerhouse1885.com

Additional accommodation suggestions include Bella Vista Suites http://www.bellavistasuites.com

Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva http://www.lodgingbythelake.com and Lake Lawn Resort http://www.lakelawnresort.com

Lake Geneva is closer than you think and is waiting to be discovered.  The destination offers an abundance of activities for singles, couples or families; it’s an ideal destination for friend’s getaway weekends, class reunions, meetings, etc.  Seasonal and year round activities include ziplining, hiking, boating, skiing, golf, themed lake cruises, antiquing, arts and crafts, wine and cheese tastings, guided historical tours, museums, special attractions and of course, dining to please every palate and pocket-book.  It’s also a preferred wedding destination, with close proximity for fly-in guests from either Chicago O’Hare International Airport, or Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.  To discover more about this wonderful year round destination, visit Lake Geneva ~ It’s always been the place. http://www.lakegenevawi.com

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Opening photo credit from The Baker House website; all others as represented by the specific brand.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized.