If you missed this week's season finale of the Friday night series, Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution, you missed an entertaining and educational reality show of a hip, British chef attempting to change the way American school systems provide and prepare food for the children in their communities.
Choosing a community in West Virginia that was singled out as one of the unhealthiest cities in the United States based on incredibly high numbers of children and adults who struggle with obesity and diabetes, Jamie fought valiantly to change the food culture. He worked every angle to make an impact—opening a “kitchen” in the middle of town, reshaping the menus in the school lunch programs, teaching parents how to cook healthy, fresh foods, and helping students understand why it is important to eat healthier.
In what seemed like a conspiracy against him—the dominance of the frozen food suppliers, the budget of a school system that relied on cheaply processed and frozen foods, initially reluctant (if not too-lazy-to-take-time) parents, kids who were “stuck on” French fries and pizza for lunch, and even the skepticism of a local radio DJ—Jamie not only made significant changes in the school menus, but he became a force for change within the entire community.
Jamie’s Oliver’s food philosophy is simple—“when I talk about having a 'healthy' approach to food, and eating better I'm talking about achieving that sense of balance: lots of the good stuff, loads of variety, and the odd indulgence every now and then."
In every show, the food facts that the “Food Revolution” delivered were always helpful and informative and sometimes even shocking! For example, did you know that flavored milk—strawberry or chocolate—contains more sugar than soda pop? (Which milk do you think kids choose when all three varieties are available?)
One little change that you can make (which my husband and I made about 5 years ago) is to eat out less often and instead, prepare fresh meals at home for breakfast, lunch and dinner using fruits, vegetables and whole grains rather than processed foods. The big results will include more family time (cooking), and the consumption of fewer unknown ingredients or oversized portions resulting in less calories eaten and more dollars saved!
In addition, whether or not you have kids in school, you can become a part of Jamie’s Food Revolution—just click here to sign the Food Revolution Petition (the counter shows over 500,000 Americans have signed up so far), which states:
I support the Food Revolution. America's kids need better food at school and better health prospects. We need to keep cooking skills alive.
Be encouraged to make a difference!
Becky
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Have you experienced an earthquake lately?
After the recent earthquake that rolled through our backyard on Easter Sunday, my husband and I realized that we did not have a strategy for reconnecting with our family members if we got separated and were unable to communicate by phone or email. So we decided to make “Earthquake Preparedness CAR Kits" on our next holiday. We also assigned a head researcher (my husband) to pull the “car kit” checklist together to include blankets, water, walking routes, and an extra pair of shoes. (If you would like an extensive list compiled by the US government of what to do before, during, or after an earthquake, click here.)
Honestly, for many of us, it is more likely that we’ll be shaken by an economic or emotional storm than by an earthquake.
Yet all disaster experts agree—whether environmental, economic, or emotional-- being prepared in advance gives you a greater chance of survival.
For example, in financial matters, people of all ages are urged to start a reserve savings account in order to have some “cushion” for unexpected illness, layoff or loss. Experts also remind us that it is never too early in life (or too late) to start saving.
And because most of us will, at some point in our lives, encounter emotional stress or trauma, counselors and other health professionals remind us to prepare a detailed list of trusted resources to whom we can immediately contact in the case of our own or another’s personal tragedy. Having a list that is well researched, easily accessible and includes church and clergy phone numbers, counselor’s names and numbers, nearest treatment center, homeless shelter, and hospital or emergency center can save valuable time and perhaps even save a life.
Very often, when we experience any type of instability, we can feel alone, overwhelmed by our thoughts and feelings and uncertain about what to do next. However, if we prepare ourselves for those unexpected, tumultuous times by doing what we can in advance we are more likely to make quick, time-sensitive decisions and find immediate support.
Take time this week to (1) make your earthquake car kit, (2) gather your “IMPORTANT NUMBERS” contact list, (3) research (or even Mapquest) local help centers, and (4) open a “rainy day” savings account. These little changes will undoubtedly give you bigger results than if you were caught unaware and unprepared.
Be encouraged,
Becky
Honestly, for many of us, it is more likely that we’ll be shaken by an economic or emotional storm than by an earthquake.
Yet all disaster experts agree—whether environmental, economic, or emotional-- being prepared in advance gives you a greater chance of survival.
For example, in financial matters, people of all ages are urged to start a reserve savings account in order to have some “cushion” for unexpected illness, layoff or loss. Experts also remind us that it is never too early in life (or too late) to start saving.
And because most of us will, at some point in our lives, encounter emotional stress or trauma, counselors and other health professionals remind us to prepare a detailed list of trusted resources to whom we can immediately contact in the case of our own or another’s personal tragedy. Having a list that is well researched, easily accessible and includes church and clergy phone numbers, counselor’s names and numbers, nearest treatment center, homeless shelter, and hospital or emergency center can save valuable time and perhaps even save a life.
Very often, when we experience any type of instability, we can feel alone, overwhelmed by our thoughts and feelings and uncertain about what to do next. However, if we prepare ourselves for those unexpected, tumultuous times by doing what we can in advance we are more likely to make quick, time-sensitive decisions and find immediate support.
Take time this week to (1) make your earthquake car kit, (2) gather your “IMPORTANT NUMBERS” contact list, (3) research (or even Mapquest) local help centers, and (4) open a “rainy day” savings account. These little changes will undoubtedly give you bigger results than if you were caught unaware and unprepared.
Be encouraged,
Becky
Sunday, April 11, 2010
What do Huffing and Heroin have in common?
Huffing and heroin have become the drugs of choice for pre-teens and teens.
This week, a story on ABCNEWS.com titled, “Teens Get High with One Household Huff,” detailed the oh-so-brief timeline of one family whose pre-teen son began huffing household products at age twelve. His parents, oblivious to the symptoms he exhibited—excessive sleep, irritability, and a declining interest in school, social activities and sports -- almost lost their son to an overdose.
This family is not unique. The report includes: “Data released in March by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicate that 12-year-old kids are more likely to get high from common, legal household substances including aerosol computer cleaners, air fresheners, hair spray or shoe polish than use cigarettes or marijuana.”
A father in Chicago was not as fortunate.
Chicago Herald-News recently reported that a retired police officer and university professor lost his young son to a heroine overdose after a secret battle to overcome the addiction. Remorseful, the father, John Roberts admitted that he hoped to help his son overcome his addiction to heroine without others knowing, especially because of the stigma—but after losing his son, he has changed his mind.
"Roberts wants parents to know that it is easier to get heroin than beer, and that heroin is cheaper than prescription drugs. They need to know that a kid can get a hit of heroin for $5 to $10, he said. 'From my own experience of wanting to keep things private and not wanting a criminal record for my son, I have had a shift of feelings. The best thing that could have happened was to get him arrested and moved into the right circle of help. We have to make sure that there is a circle that is connected and ready to help all of our kids. I believe you can never give up.'"
This week, I chose to share the stories of these two families to bring awareness to those of us who underestimate the temptations that pre-teens and teenagers face every day. Every adult—who is a neighbor, family friend, co-worker, or relative of a teenager--should be aware of the signs and symptoms of drug addiction, suicidal tendencies, sexual abuse, or underage drinking among adolescents so that you can help a troubled teen. How?
The SAMHSA website (US Department of Health and Human Services) shares a great deal of information on many subjects pertaining to teens and families, but one of its flagship programs includes this motto: Talk Early, Talk Often, and Get Others Involved.
You and I are the “others.”
One little change that you can make that will have a big result is to become educated about the issues that are facing today’s adolescents, then be brave enough to speak up about them. Just do a little online research (I've given you a start) and be attentive when you listen to the news—so that when you find yourself around a teenager, you’ll be knowledgeable on the issues and able to discuss them with confidence. Believe me, their parents will be happy you spoke up!
Be encouraged,
Becky
This week, a story on ABCNEWS.com titled, “Teens Get High with One Household Huff,” detailed the oh-so-brief timeline of one family whose pre-teen son began huffing household products at age twelve. His parents, oblivious to the symptoms he exhibited—excessive sleep, irritability, and a declining interest in school, social activities and sports -- almost lost their son to an overdose.
This family is not unique. The report includes: “Data released in March by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicate that 12-year-old kids are more likely to get high from common, legal household substances including aerosol computer cleaners, air fresheners, hair spray or shoe polish than use cigarettes or marijuana.”
A father in Chicago was not as fortunate.
Chicago Herald-News recently reported that a retired police officer and university professor lost his young son to a heroine overdose after a secret battle to overcome the addiction. Remorseful, the father, John Roberts admitted that he hoped to help his son overcome his addiction to heroine without others knowing, especially because of the stigma—but after losing his son, he has changed his mind.
"Roberts wants parents to know that it is easier to get heroin than beer, and that heroin is cheaper than prescription drugs. They need to know that a kid can get a hit of heroin for $5 to $10, he said. 'From my own experience of wanting to keep things private and not wanting a criminal record for my son, I have had a shift of feelings. The best thing that could have happened was to get him arrested and moved into the right circle of help. We have to make sure that there is a circle that is connected and ready to help all of our kids. I believe you can never give up.'"
This week, I chose to share the stories of these two families to bring awareness to those of us who underestimate the temptations that pre-teens and teenagers face every day. Every adult—who is a neighbor, family friend, co-worker, or relative of a teenager--should be aware of the signs and symptoms of drug addiction, suicidal tendencies, sexual abuse, or underage drinking among adolescents so that you can help a troubled teen. How?
The SAMHSA website (US Department of Health and Human Services) shares a great deal of information on many subjects pertaining to teens and families, but one of its flagship programs includes this motto: Talk Early, Talk Often, and Get Others Involved.
You and I are the “others.”
One little change that you can make that will have a big result is to become educated about the issues that are facing today’s adolescents, then be brave enough to speak up about them. Just do a little online research (I've given you a start) and be attentive when you listen to the news—so that when you find yourself around a teenager, you’ll be knowledgeable on the issues and able to discuss them with confidence. Believe me, their parents will be happy you spoke up!
Be encouraged,
Becky
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Spring Break Heartbreak
This morning, ABC News released an Associated Press report detailing the death of a talented high school football player who fell over a hotel balcony while on Spring Break in Florida on Friday, April 2nd, 2010. Though it has been suggested that alcohol may have been involved, toxicology reports have yet to confirm this part of the story.
But a teenager dying on Spring Break is not a new story. In fact, a college boy died the same way in the same town just a few weeks ago. ESPN.com reported that “Brandon Kohler, a 19-year-old from Winder, Ga., died March 24 when he fell from a fifth-floor balcony at the Holiday Terrace Motel in Panama City Beach.”
Every year, college and high school students make the trek south to find fun in the sun.
Having been a high school youth worker, cheerleading coach, and parent of a teenage boy, I assure you that the Spring Break discussion hits every home in the same way. There is pressure on students to want to go away and be with friends without supervision. There is pressure on parents and administration to address “in one accord”, a variety of concerns: safety, values and morals, as well as parental peer pressure. Believe me, it is incredibly difficult to say “no” to your kid when other parents are saying, “yes.” The angst and tension is palpable—and you feel as if the pressure-filled days and decisions in the teenage years will never end.
Truthfully, it is hard to be a teenager who doesn’t drink. It’s popular to drink. But it is also dangerous, illegal if you are underage, and sometimes deadly.
Because I was an alcoholic in high school, as a cheerleader and an athlete, ultimately dropping out of college because of drugs and alcohol, I am still (thirty years later) involved in this discussion with today’s parents, administration and students.
Any and every adult can make a little change that will have a big result in a teenager’s life. You can encourage sobriety—talk about it with friends, family, and neighbors who have teenagers. Offer to organize alternative activities—everything from bowling to attending major league ball games as a group. Open your vacation home to the kids and families in your circle of friends to play with the toys you can afford (and perhaps they cannot). Make clean fun popular. You could save a life.
And for a little change that you can make today that will have a big result in someone else’s life, say a prayer for the family, campus and community of the young football player. They are in pain and prayer brings comfort.
Be encouraged to change your life and make a difference in young person's life,
Becky
But a teenager dying on Spring Break is not a new story. In fact, a college boy died the same way in the same town just a few weeks ago. ESPN.com reported that “Brandon Kohler, a 19-year-old from Winder, Ga., died March 24 when he fell from a fifth-floor balcony at the Holiday Terrace Motel in Panama City Beach.”
Every year, college and high school students make the trek south to find fun in the sun.
Having been a high school youth worker, cheerleading coach, and parent of a teenage boy, I assure you that the Spring Break discussion hits every home in the same way. There is pressure on students to want to go away and be with friends without supervision. There is pressure on parents and administration to address “in one accord”, a variety of concerns: safety, values and morals, as well as parental peer pressure. Believe me, it is incredibly difficult to say “no” to your kid when other parents are saying, “yes.” The angst and tension is palpable—and you feel as if the pressure-filled days and decisions in the teenage years will never end.
Truthfully, it is hard to be a teenager who doesn’t drink. It’s popular to drink. But it is also dangerous, illegal if you are underage, and sometimes deadly.
Because I was an alcoholic in high school, as a cheerleader and an athlete, ultimately dropping out of college because of drugs and alcohol, I am still (thirty years later) involved in this discussion with today’s parents, administration and students.
Any and every adult can make a little change that will have a big result in a teenager’s life. You can encourage sobriety—talk about it with friends, family, and neighbors who have teenagers. Offer to organize alternative activities—everything from bowling to attending major league ball games as a group. Open your vacation home to the kids and families in your circle of friends to play with the toys you can afford (and perhaps they cannot). Make clean fun popular. You could save a life.
And for a little change that you can make today that will have a big result in someone else’s life, say a prayer for the family, campus and community of the young football player. They are in pain and prayer brings comfort.
Be encouraged to change your life and make a difference in young person's life,
Becky
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