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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Kristin Quail
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Tuesday, 26 January 2010 00:40 |
Today's date: January 25, 2010. Number of days your New Year's Resolution has successfully been in effect? If any of you are like me, you probably didn't make it past week one of 2010. The evidence of New Years slackers is all around us: the crowds at the gyms are dying down and the lines at fast food drive-thrus are growing.
Don't get trapped in the epidemic. It's hard to stay motivated after the ball has dropped and the champagne flow has run dry. Reclaim your resolution now and stay on track. I asked UDressers what their resolutions were and included some below.
"My new year's resolution is to keep my living space neat, even when the work piles up and my life is at its craziest".-Jessica Lapidos, Editor-in-Chief
"My resolution is to never wear sweatpants to class again." - Samantha Tharler, Writer, UDressMag.com
"I am going to continue fighting the freshman fifteen and do more to help others this year." -Chelsea Hollowell, PR team
"To spend less time stressing over the little things in life! The big picture is what matters.-Teagan Thomas, Style team
"Wear heels more often!"- Emily Barbeau, Assistant PR director
"My new years resolution is to drink more tea, coffee is more expensive and stains your teeth."-Mike Santoro, Men's style team
"To let go of old grudges and start watching the top 250 movies of all time that I haven't seen." -Montana Aydlett, Advertising team
"One of my New Years resolutions is to get as close to the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables everyday. I figured it's a better resolution than "to eat better." -Erica Nardello, UDress alum (former advertising director and layout team)
What's yours? Whether it be big or small, it's the thought that counts.
I'll leave you with the golden rule of New Years Resolutions: Remember; don't take yours too seriously, because no one ever does. As for me, I am vowing to give up on huge changes that will be hard to keep. I'll start by ignoring my New Yorker instincts and wear brighter colors this year.
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Brittany Berger
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Thursday, 21 January 2010 15:15 |
For most of us, January is our most ambitious month of the year. Not everyone makes a formal resolution, but who doesn't want to be a better person? January starts off great, you're studying your butt off, exercising, eating healthy and keeping everything in its place. Towards the end of January, things are slacking a little...one month later you're back where you were in December.
When I decided mid-summer to change up my life, I used different techniques to stick to my goals...and they worked!
Tell the world
If no one knows what your resolutions are, no one knows when you break them. And deny it all you want, but the opinions of friends and family matter. Tell everyone what you're trying to do. It will be sort of embarrassing if only a month later you're lazy again. You can find support, encouragement, and maybe even a buddy to try with.
Put it in front of your face
Give yourself constant reminders of what you want to do. Write down your resolution: on your bulletin board, the refrigerator door, your planner or journal, you can even put post-it notes in random spots.
Don't beat yourself up
Reward yourself if you're succeeding, but don't be too tough on yourself. It's okay if you slip once or twice, as long as you make more steps forward than you do back. As fabulous as you are, you're still human.
Don't let procrastination get the best of you
Break up your big resolution into a few smaller ones. Make deadlines that will be easy to keep while accomplishing your goal(s). Make out a timeline for yourself and try and stick to it. Smaller goals are also less intimidating than big ones. But all the little ones will add up.
Keep track of yourself
Make sure to track your process. With some goals, it's hard to see how much you've accomplished. It can also be pretty encouraging to be able to have tangible evidence of all that you've done.
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Kristin Quail
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Friday, 15 January 2010 01:46 |
It's here. The dreaded post-holiday season where reality hits. The few extra pounds you've acquired stuffing your face is only the start of the extra baggage you're stuck with. Toss in a few cheesy presents and some lame gift cards that scream impersonal and that just about sums it up. Still haven't been to the mall to make all those returns? Well I can't help you there. But I can let you in on a little secret to turn that $100 Borders gift card into cash. Plasticjungle.com grants post-holiday wishes in a few simple steps.
Plasticjungle.com allows users to swap undesirable gift cards for ones that may better suit your preferences.
Plastic Jungle offers a few different options. You can either sell your gift card directly to the site or post your card to the site and try to sell it yourself. Talk about turning plastic into gold! Feeling really generous? Plasticjungle.com even offers you the option to donate the balance on your gift card to charity.
In addition to selling your own gift cards, you can also save a few bucks yourself by purchasing new gift cards at below market value. And with free shipping, who can complain?
Now about that light up sweater grandma gave you...
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Katherine DiMaggio
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Thursday, 31 December 2009 04:29 |
The traditional New Year's resolutions - exercise daily, stick to a new diet, stay organized. People make such promises with the best of intentions, and, yet, these people tend to break their resolutions come February. This year, instead of lofty, vague, or just plain uninspiring goals, try these ten simple tips.
Be assertive
People naturally want to do favors for others, but it is not always in your best interest. When you're asked to help a classmate study when you've got a million other things to do, when the girl down the hall asks to "borrow" your top even though she has yet to return your earrings, necklace, or skirt - we usually end up saying yes just to be a good friend. Sometimes, you have to do yourself a favor, and just say no.
Greet strangers with a smile
You run into a great many unnamed faces in a single busy day - the barista at Starbucks, a classmate who holds the door for you, people handing out flyers in Trabant. It's easy to dismiss these strangers without so much as a glance, but in the new year try to keep manners in check and a smile on your face - you may just brighten someone's day.
Pick your battles
Knowing when to say sorry may be one of life's greatest challenges. When faced with a conflict, ask yourself if it's really worth potentially losing a friend and recognize those moments when you should just swallow your pride. On the other hand, know when it's not just a silly disagreement and be sure to stand your ground.
Kiss more
Sounds silly, but kissing can really boost any person's mood and strengthen intimacy between people. In a world of sexting and one-night-stands, too many of us have lost sight of simple pleasures. From a peck to a steamy make out session, be sure to add a healthy helping of smooches to your diet.
Branch out
What's that one place on Main Street you've never eaten at? Or that person in class you've wanted to get to know? In the new year, go for it and try something new. Introduce yourself, step outside your comfort zone, take a risk - even a small one. The fact that you challenged yourself, just a little, will make the experience that much more enjoyable.
Pump up the H20
You hear it all the time, but staying hydrated is crucial for everything from keeping skin clear to energizing you throughout the day. Doctors recommend eight 8-ounce glasses daily, but making an effort to at least drink one extra glass of water a day will do your body good.
Volunteer
Or at least donate. In tough economic times, those who are already facing financial hardship usually suffer the most. As you hear about a multitude of fundraisers and charity events around campus, try your best to support those causes. We can't all be the next Mother Theresa, but doing some good for others will make you feel good about yourself.
Paint your own nails
While many people find themselves settled into a mani/pedi routine, doing your nails yourself can save you a ton of money. A manicure and pedicure combo can cost between $25 and $50, so start doing your own polishing and save the nail salon for a special occasion. P.S. The nail polish forecast for early 2010: neutral shades like gray and taupe.
Take the stairs
We all know it's not easy to drag yourself to the Little Bob after a long day of classes, work, projects, you name it. But an easy way to sneak in some extra cardio is to just say no to the elevator. The stairs may seem daunting when a faster, electronic mode of transportation is available, but forcing yourself to rely on your own two feet will give you a little boost of fitness.
Treat yourself
In the new year, make sure to devote one hour a day to uninterrupted me time. No browsing Facebook, no BBM, just you. Spend the hour reading (NOT for class), going for a jog, napping, or anything that allows you to truly zone out. Daily stressors eventually build up and bring you down, so always save time for yourself each and every day.
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Katie Petrick
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Wednesday, 16 December 2009 05:22 |
It's that time of year again and between finals and ugly sweater parties, you've let your holiday shopping creep up on you. After a semester of study-session coffee runs, shopping on Main Street and late night pizza, you find that your holiday budget is not what it used to be. With close to no cash, how will you buy gifts for all your friends and family? Luckily for you, I have some fun, inexpensive gift ideas that will satisfy everyone's needs, including your bank accounts!
FOR YOUR COLLEGE COMRADE
Your camera and Facebook are filled with pictures from an entire semester of weekend nights with friends. Why not put them to good use? A collage or homemade photo album will make your friends laugh and reminisce about the past three months!
MUSTS FOR MOMS & DOS FOR DADS
You can never go wrong with something simple and thoughtful for mom and pops. For working parents, gourmet coffee or tea and a travel mug will hit the spot! If they love to cook, try filling a basket with kitchen gadgets and baking mixes.
SOMETHING SIMPLE FOR THE SIBS
You're home for the holidays and now is your opportunity to spend time with your siblings. The gift of a board game, puzzle, or movie theater tickets will provide entertainment for you and your family and allow you to bond and catch up with each other's lives!
If you are running low on cash, don't panic, you're not the only one! It is not the price tag on a gift that matters, but the thought you put into it.
Editor's Note: For more gift giving ideas at any budget, check out the Fall 2009 issue of UDress (page 45, Gift Giving Guide, by Alicia McDaniels)
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Lauren DeMara
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Sunday, 13 December 2009 18:00 |
December is a packed month, filled with last minute projects, finals, and gearing up for UD's long winter break, and oh yeah, that little thing called the holidays! Gifts for friends and family can get pricey, and finding the perfect one can be a hassle. However, any gift can seem perfect with the right presentation. The wrapping can be a present all in itself if you put a little thought and effort into it. Not to worry though, adding personality to your gift-wrap will not burn a hole through your wallet!
Into photography? 
Buy wrapping paper (plain or decorated), and print out a special picture. Paste the pic onto the wrapping paper, and you instantly have package that your friend or family member will cherish forever.
Into reading? 
Head over to your local newspaper stand or drugstore and choose your material based on the receiver's personality and interests. Use purchased wrapping paper and cover it with the words, articles or pictures that catch your attention to give your wrapping some flair!
Into nature? 
Walk out your front door! Decorations are all around you! Grab some small twigs, branches with berries, leaves or pinecone to adorn otherwise simple wrappers.
Into crafts? 
Pick up a pack of those brown paper lunch bags and use construction paper, markers or stamps to make it all your own. Cut out and paste holiday shapes or write a sweet little note to give a gift bag some style.
By using these quick, easy and inexpensive tricks, your friends and family are sure to love the wrapping as much as the gift itself. Sometimes, what's on the outside really is what counts.
Images: farm4static.flickr.com, realsimple.com, channel4.com, madonnadunn.com
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Emily Barbeau
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Tuesday, 22 September 2009 21:16 |
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"All in the golden afternoon, full leisurely we glide..."
Thus begins the tale of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, one of this UDresser's favorite stories. Imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon the website for Alice's Tea Cup, a tea shop and café in NYC! After perusing the adorable site, I promptly scribbled down the address and bought a train ticket.
There are three different locations of Alice's spread throughout the city, all of which are appropriately named Chapters I, II, and III. I visited the Chapter III location on the Upper East Side, which is conveniently near the Metropolitan Museum of Art (which I love!) Walking through the doors of the charming tea shop was like stepping into Wonderland itself. My friends and I were greeted by things such as fairy wings, vintage tea sets, and literary quotes painted on the ceiling ("curiouser and curiouser!").
We were promptly seated and were given the extensive menu and tea list. After much deliberation, I finally decided on the "Mad Hatter Tea", which included enough scones, sandwiches, cakes, and tea to share. The meal was delicious, and at about $15 dollars each, well worth it.
So if you're looking to escape to Wonderland for a while (or simply crave some yummy scones), visit Alice's Tea Cup and have yourself a Golden Afternoon!
Check out alicesteacup.com for a full menu, directions, and contact info. |
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Zeynab Mohammed
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Monday, 07 September 2009 14:46 |
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Are you sick of eating at the dining hall? Tired of preparing your own meals? Bored with dining at the same old restaurants on Main Street and in surrounding Newark? If your palette is craving something new, head north to Wilmington, Greenville, or Hockessin and visit some of the great eateries Delaware has to offer. There is something for every occasion and every budget. Here are some suggestions for great food in the First State:
1) Pizza by Elizabeth's- If you are in the mood for gourmet pizza or salads, this is the place to visit. Come check out the restaurant's newly redesigned interior, which boasts a very spacious dining area and bar. The glamorous furnishings and tribute to famous women named Elizabeth is a must-see for every fashionista.
Go with: A group of friends for a fun, casual lunch or a special someone for a romantic evening.
Try: one of the restaurant's signature pizza creations to see for yourself why this restaurant has been one of the Best in Delaware for 14 years.
(3801 Kennett Pike Greenville DE 19807) www.pizzabyelizabeths.com
2) The Melting Pot- Visit the Delaware location of the country's premier fondue restaurant franchise. The Melting Pot offers full fondue dinners, complete with dessert and wine. The modern and fun ambiance of the restaurant gives diners a pleasant alternative to small, traditional Swiss-style fondue restaurants.
Go with: A group of friends for a fun night out or with your family for a relaxing dinner. Communal dining is the essence of a fondue dinner.
Try: Everything. Start off with cheese fondue as an appetizer, enjoy a main course of assorted meats and vegetables, but save room for chocolate fondue dessert.
(1601 Concord Pike Wilmington DE 19803) www.meltingpot.com
3) Jasmine- Try this Asian fusion restaurant and enjoy Thai, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines. Artsy décor, dimmed lights, custom fixtures, and innovative food make this an overall very posh restaurant. The atmosphere is very refreshing and reminiscent of dining at a "swanky lounge in Soho".
Go with: A group of your very best dressed friends or a special someone for a fashionable and pleasant evening.
Try: The sushi, I swear it is some of the best in Delaware.
(3618 Concord Pike Wilmington DE 19803)
4) Catherine Rooney's- This Irish Pub is known for its great nightlife, entertainment, and bar scene. However, the restaurant also boasts an impressive menu that was recently redone this summer. Enjoy traditional Irish fare as well as other ethnic favorites like hummus with vegetables and some Asian-inspired food. Stop by early in the evening to take advantage of half-priced appetizers and drink specials during happy hour.
Go with: The people you would normally go out at night with. Have dinner and then stick around for the night to begin.
Try: Shepherd's Pie or a Reuben sandwich
(1616 Delaware Avenue Wilmington DE 19806)
5) The Back Burner To Go- The casual counterpart to The Back Burner Restaurant, Back Burner To Go features its own menu filled with great sandwiches, soups, and other lunchtime favorites. Forget Panera and Cosi, stop by and enjoy a quick lunch in the restaurant or take your food to go and have a picnic.
Go with: A group of friends for lunch or pick up food and surprise someone special with a picnic.
Try: The Roasted Turkey & Brie wrap or a cup of Pumpkin Mushroom Soup (the house specialty, served daily).
(425 Hockessin Corners Hockessin DE 19707) www.backburner.com/togo.html
6) Toscana To Go- The casual counterpart to the Italian restaurant Toscana, Toscana To Go boasts different entrees, appetizers, salads, and soups daily. Dine here if you are craving gourmet, unique food with a modest price tag. Eat outside on the patio when the weather is nice or take your food to go back to your favorite spot on campus.
Go with: A group of friends for lunch or pick up food to share with all the special people in your life.
Try: While the menu features tasty sandwiches and salads, I personally recommend picking some of the daily specials, which change seasonally.
(1402 North DuPont Street Wilmington DE 19806) www.toscanatogo.com
Pizza by Elizabeth’s Image Credit: delawareonline.com |
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Caitlin Maloney
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Thursday, 13 August 2009 00:18 |
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During the year we rarely set foot outside of Main St. Why? Because everything we could ever want and all of our friends are right there. We go to class on campus and eat, drink, and shop on Main St. But there is more to Delaware then just the main rue. Try venturing off campus for once and see what you can find, summer is the perfect opportunity. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Farmers Market
-Held every Sunday from 10:00-2:00 in the Newark Natural
Foods parking lot. (okay, so it's still on Main St. but
students rarely go down that far anyway)
White Clay Creek
-Hike, bike, pack a picnic or play disc golf at the local
statepark. Just a 5 minute drive from campus.
Batting Cages / Mini Gold
-Check out Vince's Sports Center in Newark just 5 minutes
from campus.
Horseback Riding
-Several locations located in the Wilmington and
surrounding area. Check online for the best options and
rates. Most are located between 20-30 minutes from campus but well
worth the trip.
Brandywine Zoo
-Go back to your childhood days, you know you'll love it!
Located in Wilmington and open from 10:00-4:00. Located about 20
minutes from campus.
Delaware Art Museum
-Travel through time and relax at the museum located about 25 minutes
away in Wilmington and open Wednesday thru Sunday.
Delaware Park Race Track
-Test your luck at the slots and horse races for a night
out. For the 21+ students. Located 10 minutes from campus.
Historic New Castle
-Just 20 minutes away, this charming historic town offers great
outdoor restaurants and shops for an afternoon on the town.
Longwood Gardens
-Enjoy the gardens while also eating at the cafe or
dinning room at night. Hours vary per day. Located in
Kennett Square, PA about 25-30 minutes from campus.
Image: activerain.com
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Life And Love With Style -
Life And Love With Style
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Written by Megan Richards
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Monday, 10 August 2009 17:07 |
Imagine standing in a room of 105 degrees in the middle of July with a bunch of strangers. You struggle to balance on one leg as you grip your slimy calf and move to grab your sweaty ankle. Sweat droplets smack against the floor as loudly as the rain is hitting the ceiling above you.
This was my experience in my first class of Bikram Yoga, also known as hot yoga. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, a tiny Bikram yoga studio is situated beside a deli on one of the crowded streets of Hampden. Inside this studio is a hot room where yoga students perform 26 postures incorporating strength, flexibility, and balance. However, unlike plain old yoga, these yogis also test their tolerance to extreme heat, practicing their craft in a room of, no less than, 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
You may think I'm crazy for wanting to try yoga in these excruciating conditions, but I was curious. I have always been into fitness, sports, and dance, and when I started college I also started yoga. Yoga was a breeze, easy and relaxing, but I wanted to step it up a notch and make it more challenging.
Bikram yoga is known to have cardiovascular benefits and raise the heart rate considerably, providing for a grueling 90-minute workout. You are sure to lose lots of water; because of all the sweat- afterwards it looked like I had taken a dip in the swimming pool. The heat of the room also benefits the body by dilating the capillaries, oxygenating all of your organs, tissues, muscles, and glands more effectively, and helping in the removal of waste products. In a sense, bikram yoga is a cleansing of the toxins from the body, so it is beneficial both inside and out. It's a detox that helps the metabolism of your digestive system and nervous system. Not to mention-the heat of the room is supposed to improve concentration, focus, and self-control needed to stretch deeper into each posture. The heat loosens your connective tissues and muscles, which is why individuals who wish to improve and heal previous injuries often practice hot yoga.
Bikram yoga is challenging, and may feel intimidating to try, but what do you have to lose? I tried Bikram on a whim because of a special discount flyer I saw advertising it, and curiosity got the best of me. Most Bikram yoga studios offer discounts and specials for beginners.
So if you are looking for more balance, focus, strength, and flexibility in your life, Bikram yoga may just be the workout for you! |
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Life & Love With Style
