I awake with a heavy heart, as my grandmother passed away unexpectedly on Christmas eve. I am in Chicago, spending Christmas with Chad. Today, I will continue to keep my family in my thoughts and prayers as we all get through this together.
To Grandma Pratt: May you rest in peace with no pain, no suffering. Just peace. May we meet again, yet until then I will continue to make you proud. I love you dearly.
I plan to take a break from my blog and will return in the new year refreshed. Until then, be blessed and love hard...
What's better than a hot bowl of chili on a cold winter night while watching football... You've got to try this recipe. Great for meat-lovers as they'll surely be fooled with the vegan sausage used for this recipe. But if you prefer no meat at all, the recipe is just as good. Check out the "Cooking" Section for the recipe...Enjoy!
Looking for a quick and easy salad that's both tasty and nutritionally satisfying? If so, the pear&walnut salad is perfect for you! Check out the "Cooking" section for the recipe.
Pear&Walnut Spinach Salad
with homemade honey mustard vinaigrette
This year, I'm spending Thanksgiving in Chicago with my boyfriend Chad. Luckily he is off work, so we plan to cook, spend quality time, and visit some friends in the evening for after dinner wine and conversation :)
The menu is by request of Chad; all things he loves and misses from home: Macaroni & Cheese, rice & peas (Chad is Jamaican and this dish is a staple in his household), his Mom's famous potato salad, collard greens, sweet potato casserole, and of course turkey. Definitely a non-traditional menu but it will be good!
I woke up at 4am to put the turkey in and boy does it smell good. Since I'm now a vegetarian, I won't be partaking in the turkey but I will say I'm proud of how it looks thus far ;) (see below).
This Thanksgiving, I'm thankful for the genuine support I've received from my family and friends throughout medical school as I make it to the home stretch! I couldn't have done it without you!
Now its time to make my round of phone calls and get ready for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Have a wonderful day... xoxo
Herb crusted turkey...almost done
I'll be sure to post more pics of the food and recipes!
Recently, I returned to Chicago from Houston, Texas for residency interviews and I had a blast! From shopping at The Galleria, trying a new vegan spot, and even running into old friends...it was a wonderful trip! Check out the "Medicine" and "Cooking" section for details...
I'm on vacation for the next 2 months for residency interviews, with my first interview this week. Check out the "Medicine" section for more details. Also, I posted a new recipe, Moroccan Veggie Stew with Couscous, perfect for the fall. Check out the "Cooking" section. Until next time..
Since 2008, I've made gradual changes to my diet, first excluding red meat and turkey to most recently only consuming fish, veggies, and dairy. I initially changed my diet due to gastrointestinal issues as I found that when I excluded meat and consumed more veggies, my problems resolved. This prompted me to look into vegetarianism more closely and through my search I came across the book The Food Revolution by John and Ocean Robbins. In reading this book, I was made aware of the many health benefits of a plant-based diet, not to mention benefits supported by scientific evidence!
So on August 15, 2012 I began my 30 Day Vegetarian Challenge to test my commitment to making such a major lifestyle change. After all, I'm a girl who loves to cook and try new foods and with eliminating meat I knew that this was definitely going to be a challenge. Not to mention, there's only 1 person in my family who is vegan and I'm in a 7 year relationship with a diehard carnivore...so let's just say I knew the odds were against me.
For the next 30 days, I read, read, read. With all the myths out there about vegetarianism as far as proper protein intake, and vitamin deficiency, or how expensive the diet was...I wanted to educate myself in order to do it right. I continued to read Food Revolution in addition to various internet sources. I tried new recipes and even got my boyfriend to try a vegetarian restaurant in Chicago called Mana Food Bar.
I also watched the well-known food industry documentary, Food Inc, which provided further information regarding the US food industry and the government regulatory agencies which often put profit before consumer health.
I completed the 30 day challenge and I'm committed to a vegetarian lifestyle, with plans to eventually become a vegan. I can definitely do without meat but I love cheese and yogurt. So, I'm still working on eliminating dairy. I recently came across another source regarding a plant-based diet called, Forks over Knives, a concept focused on how diet can essentially reverse many of the degenerative and preventative diseases that plague many Americans. More information to come, as I just ordered the DVD and some of the books off their website.
I'm now a vegetarian because of the health benefits which are scientifically proven, my personal resolution of gastrointestinal issues, and my concern and distrust in the US meat industry.
As I continue on my new path, I look forward to sharing health information and tasty recipes on my blog.
Check out the links provided for further information:
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In 2012, it is estimated that among U.S. women there will be:
226,870 new cases of invasive breast cancer
63,300 new cases of in situ breast cancer (including ductal carcinoma in situ and lobular carcinoma in situ, with about 85% being ductal)
39,510 breast cancer deaths
In men, it is estimated that there will be:
2,190 new cases of breast cancer
410 breast cancer deaths
I included the video above, as it was both touching and inspirational. Almost everyone in the US knows someone that has been affected by breast cancer. Both women and men should be informed about risk factors, proper screening, and prevention. Check out http://ww5.komen.org/Default.aspx for more information. It's a great website with pertinent facts and recommendations.
Looking for a quick and easy recipe good for breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Try this tasty frittata. You can't go wrong. Check out the "Cooking" section for the recipe... YUM!
September 15th marked the day that all 4th year medical students could submit thier applications for residency. ERAS, the Electronic Residency Application Service, is the universal application completed for submission to all residency programs of interest. Read more in the "Medicine" section for more details...
Today is Penn State's first football game since the scandal with Sandusky. As a Penn State University alum and current Penn State med student I can't help but to watch the first game of my alma mater. Penn State is forever changed, yet this game illustrates a glimpse of hope. Read the "Thoughts" section for more...
I've been on a much needed hiatus but I'm back feeling refreshed and ready to finish medical school! Since my last entry, I've traveled from Atlanta to Chicago to Philly, taken Step 2 (boards), and am now back in Atlanta completing an away rotation with Emory School of Medicine. So I've been away from Hershey for about 3 months now, and its been most enjoyable especially after seeing family, friends, and even having a change of scenery. Being in Hershey for almost 4 years with either my head in the books or shut off from the world while in the hospital, I sort of felt I forgot what is out there; that there is actually light at the end of the tunnel, a future waiting for me with so much promise, joy, and new beginnings.
Bike riding along Lake Michigan
in Chicago
Residency applications are due within the next couple of weeks, so I've been making edits to my CV and personal statement while confirming the final list of residency programs. I'm hoping to be in a big city for residency, especially after spending almost 8 years in small towns for school. Yet, its hard to exclude programs in small towns especially if they possess other necessary qualities I'm looking for in a program. So, I'm still applying to small town programs because you just never know.
I've been rotating at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta with the High Risk OB department for a week now and I LOVE IT. For those who don't know, I've decided to pursue a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology. And why am I in Atlanta? Well, 4th year medical students have the opportunity to rotate at outside programs, and often opt to do so if they are interested in the program or just want to get experience at a different medical institution. I chose Emory because I'm actually interested in the program for residency, especially because my parents now live north of Atlanta. And for most of the residency programs I'm applying to, I have family and personal ties to the city in addition to it being a city program.
Jellyfish at Atlanta Aquarium
In other news, a research project I was working on with 3 others was just accepted for publication in the Women & Health journal! I'm also working on another research project which seems very promising. So its safe to say that on the academic side of things, life is good.
There are so many things going on in my life, but I don't want to bore you with every little detail. Bottom line is, I'm back to blogging with many things to share. I've made some MAJOR lifestyle changes which I can't wait to share and I have a feeling that my life in the next few months is going to change drastically. I'm happy to blog about it to bring you along for the ride.
Beluga whales at Atlanta Aquarium
The Bean at Millennium Park
in Chicago
Keep reading for exciting stories, tips, recipes, how-tos, and don't dos :)
I officially ended my 3rd year of medical school on June 29th and am at the home stretch. The beginning of 4th year is marked by Step 2 board studying and rotations starting in August. I'm scheduled to end 4th year at the end of March and graduate in May. Finding time to write on my second blog has proven to be much more challenging compared to my first. Yet, my schedule during 4th year is a bit lighter, so I hope to find more time to share.
My first day of studying will begin today...at 9:00 am to be exact. I also plan to work on my personal statement and residency applications during breaks. For Step 2, I'm using the Doctors in Training (DIT) series, a program comprised of video recorded lectures with a high-yield study guide which correlates with the DIT course videos. I'm also using Step Up 2 USMLE as another high yield study resource, which is also referenced by the DIT series. I'll be sure to let you all know my opinion of the series as I progress.
While in the gym, I came across a People magazine article about the First Lady, Michelle Obama, and the article included a yummy recipe for Spinach Pie. I made it on Sunday and it's so delicious. I eat a slice for breakfast with hot green tea, and boy is it a great way to start the day! Check out the "Cooking Section" for the recipe!
I've been missing in action since the end of Surgery, as 3rd year comes to a close. I started my Internal Medicine rotation in the beginning of May and am currently in the 5th week. The rotation ends June 29th and 4th year will officially begin in July! My 4th year schedule is confirmed with all med school requirements complete by the end of March 2013. The next obstacle is to take Step 2 boards July 28th and begin residency applications. I've decided to pursue a career in Obstetrics and Gynecology so I've been making a list of programs which interest me. In the medicine section, I plan to keep a log of the "dos and don'ts" when applying to residency (some based on my experience as well as input from others).
I recently visited Chicago for the Northwestern Residency Showcase and spent quality time with my boyfriend, Chad who lives in the city. It was a wonderful weekend, minus the airport delays. I did some Chicago site-seeing on the architectural boat tour on the Chicago River and was able to take a tour and met some great people at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. I included some pictures below of my time in Chicago.
On another note... HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! Check out the "Thoughts" section as I included a short entry about my Mom who I miss and love so much.
I also posted an entry in the "Medicine" section, as I started my last rotation of 3rd year last Monday, Internal Medicine.
Lastly, check out the "Wellness" section for a Part I entry on Natural Hair. While in Chicago at the Residency Showcase, a group of us were having a conversation over lunch about going natural hair and its benefits compared to relaxed hair.
Happy Sunday!
labor and delivery room in the Prentice Women's Hospital Who wouldn't want to deliver a baby here!
The view from the labor and delivery room...beautiful
Trump Towers from the Chicago River... the penthouse is going for 35 million...any takers?
City of Chicago from the river on the boat tour...I definitely learned a lot about the city
I'm at the final stretch. With my surgery exam quickly approaching, I'm getting quite anxious. I thoroughly enjoyed the rotation, but I can honestly say I'm a little worried about the exam. In my opinion there is no such thing as "easy" when it comes to exams in medical school but there is something about this exam in particular that is freaking me out. Check out theThoughts tab to read more about my ultimate concern. Until Friday, the library is my second home! Then off to Chicago for the weekend... can't wait!
On Sunday, I came across a touching story on CNN about a 5 month old girl with an incurable disease which is soon to take her life. Check out the "Wellness" tab to read more. I included the story in my soul searching sunday series. Enjoy :)
I started my Surgery Rotation about 6 weeks ago and it definitely has consumed my life. The hours are crazy (waking up at 4am 6 days a week is no joke) not to mention I have to fit in study time for my surgery exam on May 5th. However, no complaining here. It's been such a great experience! I've learned so much and have officially confirmed that I love being in the operating room. Continue reading below, where I share a memorable experience when I was taking 24-hr call...
Around 8pm the calls started coming as myself and the on-call surgery resident briskly walked the hospital, going from room to room seeing patients. Within the next hour, I was in the operating room scrubbing in for an laparoscopic appendectomy. The operation was completed in about 45 minutes, and after taking the patient to post-op we were on our way to answer another call. The call I will always remember...
The patient was a transfer from an outside hospital in critical condition. Unresponsive and connected to every life support monitor possible, his chance of survival was slim. Surgery was consulted for a specific concern (which will go unmentioned to maintain patient confidentiality), which in our eyes would provide little benefit to the patient if he were to undergo emergent surgery. The on-call resident and attending spoke to the patient's family about the proposed options. The family clearly requested that everything be done to save his life. Therefore, after talking to the family, it was agreed that the patient would undergo surgery if he showed no signs of improvement over the next couple of hours. As time passed, the patient continued to decompensate so it was determined that Trauma Surgery team would proceed to surgical treatment at the bedside rather than in the OR, due to the patient's unstable condition. Anesthesia declined involvement in the procedure, as they were convinced that the patient was brain dead based on neurological assessment. Despite Anesthesia's decision, the OR was brought to the bedside including all surgical equipment, sterile dressings, and staff. The incision time was 2:43am.
During the surgery, it was determined that the patient's condition was incompatible with life. The procedure was aborted and the incision was closed. It was the life support monitors keeping the patient alive. Immediately after the incision was closed and we de-gowned, the attending and I went to find the family to deliver the news...
Go to the "Medicine" section to continue reading about my first experience with delivering the news to a family that their loved one had died. It was such a powerful moment and one to remember.
Life has been crazy these last few weeks. From clinical rotations to research, fracturing my right pinkie toe and getting sick...time is definitely not on my side. This morning, I forced myself to take some time and reflect and write a few blog posts (giving myself from 10am to Noon) and I just made it!
Its Soul Searching Sunday so check out the blog post below (can also be found in the "Wellness" section). I also added 2 new recipes to the "Cooking" section. Check them out...
Until I write again... this is my motto for the week ahead :)
There is poison in power. Some long to be idolized and the praise from others feeds their soul, bringing sustenance to their very being. This poison plaques Joseph Kony, a Ugandan guerrilla group leader and head of the Lord's Resistance Army, also known as the LRA. For about 30 years, Kony has made it his mission to kidnap young boys and girls for the purpose of turning the boys into killing machines and the girls into sex slaves all in the name of power. The children are forced to kill their parents, forcing them to remain with the LRA or become orphans. More than 60,000 children have been abducted and about 2 million people have been displaced since the rebellion started in 1986.
So what purpose does the LRA serve? Kony started the group in 1986, but the group was formerly called the Holy Spirit Movement under the control of Kony's cousin, Alice Lakwena. Lakwena claims to be ordered by the Holy Spirit to overthrow the Ugandan government which was accused of treating the Acholi people ( the people of Kony and Lakwena) unfairly. Resentment against the Ugandan government thickened, and supporters flocked to Lakwena allowing the Holy Spirit Movement to gain momentum. However, a battle won by the government led to Lakwena's exile.
As the Holy Spirit Movement lost a leader and direction, Kony took over as leader and rebranded the movement in 1986, calling it the Lord's Resistance Army. Kony initially stated that the mission of the LRA was to overthrow the government and rule Uganda based on the Ten Commandments. However, he rapidly lost support. Therefore, out of frustration he began to abduct thousands of children to increase its ranks, turning the children into killers and unleashing them on villages. Kony's main mission now is to retain power.
As thousands continue to suffer in Uganda and surrounding African countries, people opposed to such genocide have begin to stand up in the name of justice. Watch the video below for more information on the movement against Kony called Kony 2012. I am a supporter of Kony 2012 because I am a supporter of justice. So you might ask, what does this have to do with soul searching, spirituality, and/or religion... the answer is in the video... Enjoy.
Religion is such an interesting subject encompassed by so many contrasting views and opinions. Some opt to consider themselves spiritual rather than religious, as religion seems to require a deeper commitment and conformity to a certain practice. Whereas opting to be spiritual seems to warrant more freedom.
I consider myself to be a spiritual person, as I believe that everyone is entitled to "customize" their spiritual path to whatever higher being they believe in. I believe in God. But I also respect the beliefs of other religions and their respective gods and strongly disagree with discrediting their beliefs because ours are not one in the same. Therefore, I am one of many who opt to steer away from a religious classification. Not because I don't believe but because the teachings of God are far to complex to be deduced to one religious tradition.
My spiritual path is never ending, taking twists and turnings; meeting roadblocks and dead ends. I was not raised in the church, as my parents believed in granting their children the freedom to develop their own spiritual soundness. Yet, when I became old enough to attempt to tap into and develop a connectedness with a higher power, I began to attend church as the first step. There I realized my commitment and faith in God. But I could not commit to the expectations of the church. Attending every Sunday. Attending bible study every Wednesday. Being told I was less if I did not do so. Judgements that I would rather be without.
Only you can determine what works for YOU. The statements above are only my opinion and experience. So as I continue to cultivate my spiritual wholeness and relationship with God, I seek solace in listening to the stories of others, their struggles, their achievements, and use that as inspiration and a teaching moment. I have decided to start "Soul Searching Sunday," as a means to spread the stories of others for personal lessons you can possibly apply to your life for the purpose of spiritual well being and development. On Sundays I'll highlight a story. This is the beginning...
Ed has ALS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a disease of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. It is a disease that ultimately leads to death via respiratory failure, as the muscles controlling respiration are to weak to facilitate the act of breathing. It is a disease of progressive deterioration with no cure and death commonly occurring 3-5 years after diagnosis. To see the longer video, click on the link below:
Everyone has a comfort place... a place of restoration and peace. Finding a comfort place is essential to holistic well-being. I have many but one is quite unique. I find comfort in listening to the music of a particular band. I close my eyes and mellow out. Read in the "Thoughts" section for more detail...
Below is one of my favorite songs from the group. The melody, lyrics, and instruments are amazing to me. Although this genre of music is not for everyone, one can not deny that its real music. Its so authentic. Give it a chance... go in a room that is completely quiet, turn the song up really loud, close your eyes, and push play...
As application season for visiting student rotations and residency draw near, institutions are requesting a copy of an updated curriculum vitae (CV) to be included with the application. Yet, some have either never heard of the term or are confused about the difference between a CV and resume. Check out the "Medicine" tab for a quick read on the difference and what to include.
On every news station and media outlet is the most recent updates regarding the death of legendary singer, Whitney Houston. Houston, who died on February 11, 2012 of unconfirmed causes, was unfortunately affected by the demon of substance abuse. Although, the cause of death is unconfirmed many are speculating that her addiction to illicit drugs, namely crack-cocaine, could have contributed to her death. It's also been stated that the prescription drug, Xanax, was found in the hotel room where her body was discovered. Xanax, otherwise known as alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. The most common side effect of the medication is drowsiness and/or sedation and when taken with alcohol can intensify such side effects. Some are questioning if Houston consumed the Xanax with alcohol, as she was found in the bathtub under water. Yet, these are all speculations and no definitive conclusions can be reached until the toxicology report is released. Until then, the public will continue mourn but celebrate the loss of such a beautiful vocalist.
Whitney Houston
R.I.P. February 11, 2012
In the past year, music has lost 3 legendary icons who all shared something in common...substance abuse. Unfortunately, illicit drugs aren't going anywhere, anytime soon. However, each one of us has the power to do something to help fight against substance abuse and its deleterious effects, if we so choose. Almost everyone I know, knows someone addicted to alcohol or drugs. But many aren't sure of how to approach the individual in an effort to help.
I came across a wonderful resource that provides tips on how to help friends and/or family members dealing with substance abuse. I am no expert. However, I've had experience in college with counseling fellow peers on substance abuse. As medical student, I've also spoken to countless patients and their families who are battling with substance abuse and addiction, whether it be alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco to harder drugs such as heroin, meth, and cocaine. So, after reviewing the resource, I feel it's a great overview for helping loved ones in need. But I will say the first step in helping those plagued with substance abuse, but the most difficult is finding the courage to talk to them...
The link to the resource is provided below, but I have also included the information in its entirety in the "Wellness" section (as the information is quite extensive).
If you know someone who is dealing with substance abuse, think about how you can help. By no means, do I think just by talking to someone you can magically change their lives. But I do believe in planting the seed. Hope heals...so hold on to the hope that your courage to say something will be their starting point.
I recently completed my Psychiatry rotation in the Child & Adolescent Psychiatry department at a psychiatric hospital in Harrisburg. Check out the Medicine section for an interesting read about my experience. It was life changing to say the least.
I came across this image and had to include it, as the message is quite powerful and personifies my experience during the rotation. Many of the disorders and/or circumstances plaguing the children were commonly not things they asked for. Surprisingly their behaviors were ingrained in their psyche during development or by their environment. And sometimes the only advocate to help them undo the learned behavior was in fact the doctor and medical team. Read more in the Medicine section...
...the first phrase from a statement released by the Paterno family in regards to the death of Joe Paterno, legendary Penn State football coach, who died on January 22, 2012. As recently reported, Joe Paterno died from metastatic small cell carcinoma of the lung, an aggressive and rapidly growing malignancy of the lung that affects 20-25% of the US population. Prognostically, 65-70% of those with small cell carcinoma have disseminated, extensive disease at the time of clinical presentation... which unfortunately is incurable.
Lion shrine in the Hershey Medical Center rotunda in memory of Joseph Vincent Paterno Dec. 21, 1926-Jan. 22, 2012
Since the dawn of the "Penn State scandal", many have questioned if the events surrounding the scandal and the abrupt firing of Paterno worsened his health status leading to his death. No one will never know. Can you die of a broken heart? Can emotional stress kill you? No one knows for sure. However, emotional stress and chronic pain can indeed decrease your body's immunity, making it harder to restore physiological balance once compromised. So, from my perspective the recent events prior to his death surely did more harm.
As a Penn State graduate, soon to be x2 when I graduate from Penn State College of Medicine in May of 2013, my heart sincerely goes out to the Paterno family and the Penn State community. Joe Paterno was and will always be a prominent memory of my college years. Everyone knew of "JoePa" and were proud to be a Penn Stater whenever anyone spoke of his name. We are... Penn State
Being in financial debt is enough to make a person physically ill. Seriously. Depending on the amount of money owed, the feeling of helplessness can greatly affect a person's well being. To some being in debt is like a vicious cycle. You pay one bill to only get another that you can't afford, not to mention unexpected expenses that arise which are out of your control. It can be a mess!
my coupons~SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!
I'm one of the millions of Americans who are in extreme debt, due to my loans for medical school. With 6-figures worth of debt looming over my head, and not many options available to decrease school expenses and personal bills, I was determined to figure out a way to cut cost. Seeing the show "Extreme Couponing," on TLC was my aha moment! http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/extreme-couponing
I've always known about coupons in the Sunday paper and online, but never really took advantage of the savings. Yet, when I saw people saving more than $500 on one grocery bill on Extreme Couponing, I was sold! So, every Sunday I buy the local paper for $2.00 and clip coupons. Not only do I clip coupons, but also review the circulars for the local grocery stores and convenient stores (such as Rite Aid, CVS) to see what items are on sale. By doing this, I can save double by (1) getting the item on sale AND (2) using my coupon. I've only be doing this for about a month, but saw the benefit instantly.
Perfect sunday~ coupons, hot green tea, tasty breakfast panini
You're never to good to clip coupons... try it once and you'll be hooked!
After waking up in a rather grumpy mood, I needed something to brighten up my day. I headed to the gym to release some frustration and came home for some therapeutic cooking. Check out the Cooking tab for a easy recipe for a Turkey bacon, Egg, Spinach, and Cheese Breakfast Panini. It was just what I needed....
The white coat, worn by medical professionals, has been a topic of discussion in my recent conversations with various physicians during my clinical rotations. Controversial comments have been made, as there seems to be contrasting views about its utility and purpose in the medical field. Once a symbol of accomplishment and professional accolade, it is now seen by some as a symbol of unjust superiority. Hmmm...Check out the "Medicine" tab to read more...
Sunday I made banana bread with some over-ripened bananas I had on the counter. Its a great snack to include in your lunch or pre/post workout. See the "Cooking" section for the recipe.... Best Banana Bread Ever!
P.S. I didn't realize how much I cook until I started posting on my blog again. More blog articles in "Medicine" and "Thoughts" section in the works... Enjoy.
While growing up, I lived all over the US. I've traveled coast to coast. But my time in Texas (both Dallas and Houston) will always hold a special place in my heart. Texas is definitely known for its Tex-Mex and BBQ so when living there I grew to love both. This recipe pays homage to my love for mexican food. Check out the Cooking section for my Chicken and Spinach Enchiladas with a homemade tomatillo sauce that is delicioso!
Chicken and Spinach Enchiladas
see Cooking tab for recipe!
Now that I'm back in Hershey for school, I have to get back to my daily routine. That means going to the hospital or clinic during the day for clinical rotations, cooking dinner, working out, studying, keeping in touch with family and friends, and don't forget finding "me" time :)
Check out the "Cooking" section for a quick, easy, and healthy soup recipe. There's nothing like a good, warm soup when its cold outside.
Check out the "Wellness" section where I talk about exercise and ways to keep it fun. With the new year upon us, many make new years resolutions pertaining to fitness. Frequent gym goers know that right around the new year, the gym is packed with new comers motivated to make a change. However, give it a month and the gym attendance dwindles and things go back to how they were. Yet, if you determine what works for you, it will be easier to stay motivated and stay in the gym consistently. Not to mention the health benefits!
Check out my most recent food finds during my visit in Chicago. I was definitely on a mission to see what Chicago was all about when it came to delicious, affordable food. They definitely passed the test. Click on the Cooking tab to read all about it. Sneak peek...
Cupcakes from Sprinkles, original cupcake bakery
cutest morsels of goodness!
It's officially 2012... Happy New Year! I'm both thankful and excited for the new year and optimistically looking forward to the challenges and experiences 2012 will bring. Starting my 2nd blog is my first new venture for 2012. My first blog, MD Bound started in November 2010, was primarily about medicine and my journey through medical school. Although I had interesting experiences to share, I felt the blog was lacking. I was confined to one topic, yet had so many things to share regarding other interests of mine. I ended MD Bound in April 2011 and decided to revisit blogging at a later time, hoping to find inspiration for a new direction. Well, it came... 8 months later.
With this blog Morning after, Day ahead, I hope to not only share my experiences in medical school but also focus on a broader topic of health & wellness. I am an advocate for holistic health. As I mature, I find myself consciously seeking spiritual, physical, and mental balance. Some say it's when that balance is obtained, that one is living life to its fullest potential. Yet, it's also life's challenges that can easily offset the very balance you worked so hard to achieve. So, in my opinion as long as you're striving for a life filled with wholeness; a balance that fits you no matter how uneven it might seem to another, you're living life to the fullest.
I want to share my journey in seeking my life balance, and in doing so provide helpful tips, information, and personal stories. General posts will be on the home page, as well as updates for new posts under the different tabs.
The photo above is the Chicago skyline. I spent Christmas and New Year in Chicago. I officially declare it my favorite city. Below is a short video I made on December 31, 2011. I took a walk along Lake Michigan to reflect on the year. Very peaceful.
