Another reason to drink beer!

I love reading health tips from www.active.com and particularly today this one hit home -

Keep Drinking Beer

Controlling stress is a surprisingly important factor in optimizing metabolism. When we're stressed out, over-worked, and under-slept, we will have hormonal imbalances that increase the production of cortisola powerful appetite stimulant that will cause us to overeat and store fat. There is a lot of evidence to support the notion that people should continue to do the things they enjoy and eat the foods they love (in moderation of course), without getting all stressed out about it.

And you just might do your heart a favor and stave off a heart attack later on if you have one or two drinks now.

In Germany, researchers have shown that beer drinking is associated with a decreased risk for heart disease. But according to Tufts researcher, Dr. Jose Ordovas, this is most likely due to the "celebratory effect." That is to say, because Germans tend to drink beer socially and have a good time, they experience health benefits from the reduced stress that accompanies such activities.


Makes sense, we all need a stress reliever! For me that means a 45 minute workout + 1-2 light beers. At least it equals less calories than sitting on the couch eating chocolate cake!

Best of British to Maggie!

Today was the last time I saw my sister Maggie before she leaves to study abroad in Manchester for the next five or so months. I loved having her live with us for the past semester and I am going to miss her so much. Maggie, have so much fun and drink some English beer for me!

Women exchange beer - controversy ensues

Before the holidays, I read an article in the St. Louis Post Dispatch about women having a beer exchange instead of a cookie exchange. Sounds like a fun idea to me (although I like cookies too!) Check out the story here.

I was seriously amazed perusing the reader comments about the story... accusing the women of being irresponsible, drunk drivers, ugly, etc. In fact, comments have now actually been disabled (not sure whether this is standard after a certain time period). While responsible drinking is indisputably important, there was no reason in my opinion to think these women were being irresponsible. Maybe the idea of women wanting to exchange beer instead of cookies (or even wine) is a little too "non-traditional," and therefore controversial?

Any which way, this is a fun idea I am considering doing next year!

About time!

I have been wanting to start a blog for a long time. A few things have held me back - not knowing exactly what to focus on... also some hesitation from my hubby, who is a very private person. But it is a cold January day during a three-day weekend, right before my next master's class starts and the busy time at work begins. So it seems like if I don't do it now, who knows when!

As for my husband, he is fine with it as long as not too much personal information is discussed. And for the focus, I will write about what I am passionate about - Family. My puppy Cocoa. Our home (well apartment for now, but that doesn't mean we can't make it feel like a home). Good beer. The simple but beautiful things in life.