CRAVE CRUSH the urban girl's blog to all that you CRAVE

Interview with Entrepreness Shannon Conley of Urban Waxx

November 9, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Shannon is a powerhouse of energy and tenacity that instantly draws you into her world. She’s the proud owner of Urban Waxx, a local waxing salon that promises you’ll experience, “the best wax you’ll ever have, seriously.” Shannon has been a licensed esthetician for over 14 years, and since then has waxed thousands of clients and specializes in Brazilians and Brow Design. She’s expecting a new baby boy early November along with her husband Cody and daughter Stella. I had the pleasure of interviewing Shannon after going to Urban Waxx for over two years. Read on to find out more about Shannon and fabulous culture of Urban Waxx!

The motto of Urban Waxx is, “The best wax you’ll ever have, seriously.” Why is this message important to you?
This message is important to me because it creates a high standard for my business and my customers. I want my customers to expect high quality customer service when they walk through these doors, because that’s what I truly want to provide for them. Getting waxed should be a fun, comfortable experience and I want people to enjoy their time while they’re here.

How did you develop the Urban Waxx brand and culture?
I started this business because I wanted to create a great waxing environment for people to enjoy and feel welcomed at. I began my career as an esthetician and wanted to create a salon that I wanted to come to as well, which led to our motto, “The best wax you’ll ever have, seriously.” I make sure that our girls are always ready to welcome you, provide refreshments, and make you comfortable before your service.

What do you love most about owning your own business?
What I love most is being able to create a joyful environment that is pleasant and makes everyone from my customers to my employees happy. I love being involved in every aspect of my business and hearing from my employees and customers on what they enjoy about Urban Waxx, as well as what can we improve.

What do you find most challenging?
It’s challenging when there is a constant list of things to do, and daily activities are non-stop. I love the activity, but yes, managing lots of tasks can be difficult at times.

Speaking of managing tasks, how do you manage multiple locations and a team of 18 employees?
I’m a constant list maker. I love writing tasks down then crossing them off when I’m done. With my team, I make sure to always check in with them and ensure to be accessible as well. It’s important to me to encourage open communication within my team so that needs are met, and confusion is clear. I hold monthly meetings with my team to make sure that we’re all on the same page. I try to be there for my team as much as possible, even if they call or text me at 11 at night!

How do you balance your personal life with your business?
I always make time for my family, and ensure to draw a clear line between my business and personal life. I’m fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time with my family, and preparing for our new baby boy in November!

“Unacceptable for us to be average.” I like how you mentioned this in your blog post. What advice would you give to other entreprenesses who are starting and/or having trouble with their business?
Find what drives you. Focus on one thing and excel at what you love to do. With great risks come great rewards, and I truly believe that.

You’ve built this culture that sets you apart from other waxing salons. What are some key tips to build a strong foundation?
Staying focused on the mission of Urban Waxx has helped shape our business in many ways. It’s important to keep yourself and your team focused on what’s important – such as creating a great customer experience, being present, consistent, and humble to your people. With any thriving business, and life in general, you don’t have time to be scared. If you find what you love, run with that idea. If you love what you do, building that foundation will come naturally to you. Most importantly, have fun!

Connect with Urban Waxx!

Website
Twitter
Facebook

Locations:

Urban Waxx NW
1036 NW 18th Ave‬
‪Portland, OR 97209‬
‪(503) 219-9299‬

Urban Waxx – Tanasbourne
2368 NW Amberbrook Dr.
Beaverton, OR, 97006
(503) 372-9505

Go Green for Less Green: Create a Healthier Living Environment in 5 Easy Steps

August 18, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Did you know that you spend about 80% of your time indoors? Here in Portland, it’s important that busy entrepreprenesses are armed with the best technology, resources, beauty products, and now sustainable interior design! Sustainable interior design is more than just a trend. It refers to products and habits that foster a healthy environment such as having products that don’t emit harmful chemicals, practicing eco-friendly production methods, and supporting local businesses. If you thought sustainable living wasn’t within your budget range, think again! Read on to find out how you can create a healthier living environment in five easy steps!

1. Eliminate Clutter.
Remove materials that emit harmful gases or chemicals. Removing clutter drastically improves indoor air quality and well being in general. Taming what goes into our home, and recycling what you can helps us save money, time, stress while preventing less junk from going into the landfill.

2. Add Plants.
Plants are very affordable and beneficial in creating a healthy living space! Plants naturally eases stress and promotes relaxation. They can also be a great way to liven up a living space as they naturally clean the air and help improve overall health. Did we mention they’re beautiful as well?

3. Adjust Lighting.
The amount of lighting in a living space can directly affect your mood. Lighting can stimulate action, increase energy, promote relaxation, and encourage intimacy. Open your windows to let some natural light in, and use it as a natural source of illumination if you can. Natural lighting makes for a more attractive entrepreness as well!

4. Save Water.
Are you turning off your water while you brush your teeth? Washing a full load in the dishwasher and laundry instead of a small one? Can you take a shower in ten minutes or less? All of these small changes heavily impact our environment and your water bill over time. Water scarcity is an issue in many countries all over the world, and safe water is a limited resource that we must take care of.

5. Consider Remodeling.
After taking the baby steps to help create a healthier living environment, you may be ready to consider remodeling your home to make it more sustainable. During this step, you may consider updating the color in your home with no or low-VOC paints (ecofriendly paints). Purchasing local furniture or products from artisans in your area is a great alternative from importing overseas. Choosing local helps support your community and help thrive business in your area. We love our local businesses!

To find out more about sustainable interior design, visit these local resources!

Relish Design
1715 NW Lovejoy St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3779

The Joinery
4804 SE Woodstock Boulevard
Portland, OR 97206
(503) 788-8547

Hunt & Gather
1302 NW Hoyt St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3400

Ecohaus
819 SE Taylor St
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 222-3881

MetroPaint
4825 N Basin Ave
Portland, OR 97217
(503) 234-3000

Splish-Splashin’ Water Activities

July 28, 2010 by Kelly | Comments (0)

Cool treats and summer sundresses are great this time of year, but nothing really says summer like making a splash. So, we have scoped out the state and have put together some of the best water and outdoor activities that we are just CRAVING to dive into.

If you’re looking for a classic swimming spot, check out the Sellwood Pool at 7951 SE 7th Ave. This historic site has been in use since 1910 and was the first structure of its kind in the city. This oval shaped swimming spot is open to the general public and has amenities to suit a broad spectrum of summer-time swimmers.

Wanting more of an adventure? Take the day off, gather a group of friends and head to Bagby Hot Springs, located in the Mt. Hood National Forest. It’s one of the most popular and well-maintained springs in the state. But just make sure you come prepared to walk- it’s a one and a half mile hike into the springs. Once you are there, however, you will be rewarded with bathtub-like water that is over 100 degrees at its source. For more information and directions to this steamy site visit, www.bagbyhotsprings.org.

Another great swimming spot, especially for those with children, is the North Clackamas Aquatic Park. Located just outside the city, this giant indoor facility has everything from wave pools to water slides to high dives. Not only will it keep you entertained, but it will also give you a break from heat the too! Head on over to 7300 SE Harmony Road 
Milwaukie, OR 97222 to ride the waves!

Escape the familiar and routine! Experience the relaxing and rejuvenating aspects of whitewater rafting with Oregon Whitewater Adventures. Oregon offers some of the most charming and exciting rivers with incredible scenery and unspoiled beauty. Oregon Whitewater Rafting Adventures chooses some of the most challenging rivers throughout Oregon for its safe, guided trips. View schedule and pricing online!

Not ready to ride the waves just yet? No problem, just take to the streets! Whether you have family visiting from out of town or just want to explore the heart of the city in a new way, try a Portland Bike Tour. The tour is easy, fun, safe and will provide you with a whole wealth of knowledge about the history of the city and what makes Portland unique. For more information, check out their website, www.pedalbiketours.com.

Sizzling Summer Make-Up Trends

July 21, 2010 by Kelly | Comments (0)

Are you looking for a way to stay current and up-to-date with the latest fashions without breaking the bank? Look no further friends, we have found the trick to keeping up a chic aesthetic sans supplementing your closet with the latest shoes, sweaters, skirts and everything else. So what’s our secret? Make-up of course! Whether you’re feeling sassy or want to look classy, we have hunted down the most crave-worthy summer make-up trends that will keep your look sizzling long after the sun goes down.

The Silver Eye

For all you fans of the smoky eye, put a twist on the sultry go-to look by substituting your browns for a touch of silver. The silver eye make-up trend has been spotted on countless runways and fashionistas this season and you can get this look yourself. If you’re going for a more bold evening style line the entire crease of your eye with a metallic silver shade. Feeling a little more subdued? That works too. Simply dab a touch of silver on your inner eye for just a little added spark. Head over to Fez Studio on NW 10th & Everett to pick up this silver hue.

Old Hollywood Glam

Nothing is more timeless than this old Hollywood throw back. So channel your inner movie star, pair a nude face with bright red lips and get ready to say hello to a glam new you and a look that can take you from the workplace to happy hour without a complete face-overhaul. Pick up a lip smacking (organic!) shade at Camellia Pure Beauty on 4759 NE Fremont.

Bold Brights

Remember that entire eye palette you bought to complete your crazy Halloween look? Well don’t count it out yet. That funky costume make up can be put to new uses this summer season. Bold and bright colors are all the rage this season, especially paired with your newly sun kissed skin. So whether you dab a bubble gum pink shade on your lips or swipe a lavender hue on your nails you will surely be looking bright and cheery all day long! In the event that you did in fact throw away that Halloween eye palette, you can find other fun and trendy options at Blush Beauty Bar on 513 NW 23rd Ave.

Bikini Body for the Busy-Body

June 23, 2010 by Kelly | Comments (0)

With July rapidly approaching; Portlanders seem to still be playing hide-and-go-seek with the sunshine. So while summer hasn’t truly shown itself yet, it is important to be ready when Mother Nature decides to send some rays our way. Here are some CRAVE worthy places to smooth up, shape up and sun up to ensure that you are Bikini Body ready for when the heat is finally on.

URBAN WAXX
First stop: silky-smooth skin compliments of Urban Waxx located in the alphabet district on 18th and Marshall. Whether you’re in for the first time or the fortieth time, Urban Waxx is committed to a warm environment and comfortable waxing experience. The shop caters exclusively to waxing and offers a wide menu of treatments from brow to bikini. So stop in, sip some wine, sit back and relax knowing that you’re one step closer to summer fun in the sun.

COREPOWER YOGA
Perfect for all shapes, sizes and fitness levels, yoga is a great way to strengthen and tone lean muscles. Located on NW 22nd and Quimby, Corepower has drawn on the eclectic vibe of Portland to create a wide rage of unique fitness styles and classes to please all yogis. Their knowledgeable instructors are passionate about the practice and committed to working with you to achieving your fitness goals, and get you one step closer to looking sleek in a suit. Still not sure if yoga is for you? Check out their website  and print out a coupon for one free week of classes!

ORGANIC BRONZE BAR
Finally, if you CRAVE bronzed skin but can’t justify the risks associated with baking for hours on end under the harsh rays, not a problem. The new-to-Portland Organic Bronze Bar inside Portland Spa & Boutique offers a comparable solution to this age-old dilemma: organic airbrush tanning. Completely UV and paraben-free, you can achieve the look of a sunned vacationer in a matter of minutes. The solution is all natural made with organic ingredients including walnuts, anti-oxidants and botanicals. Add an anti-aging or SPF mixer for a beautiful and safe glow! Complete your bikini ready journey by paying them a visit at 0315 SW Montgomery St. Suite 380 on the Waterfront.

Gifts We Crave for Recent Grads

June 16, 2010 by Stephanie M. | Comments (0)

Graduation is a special time in a person’s life. Whether finishing high school or college, this exciting occasion is typically shared and commemorated with family and close friends. It is often a joyous and sentimental event for the individual that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. Show the graduate in your life how proud you are of their accomplishments by giving them something special from the following local businesses that we CRAVE. The list is diverse, offering an array of trinkets, flowers, cards, pampering, shopping and more – all with local flare.

CARDS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Oblation Papers & Press
If you are planning a party for your grad and really want to make a statement, schedule a consultation with an employee at Oblation Papers & Press. At this European-style stationary boutique, they will custom make your announcements and invitations on recycled handmade cotton paper and use one of their old-world letterpresses for printing. This method creates an original and personalized memento for friends and family members to enjoy.

516 NW 12th Ave. Portland
7243 SW Bridgeport Rd. Tigard

FLOWERS:

Geranium Lake Flowers
Geranium Lake Flowers is another great local shop to put on your list if you are throwing a graduation party. Owner Kim Foren is a master when it comes to styling events with the use of fresh flowers. Whether you need one bouquet or one hundred, she will work her magic to make your event special and beautiful. If you are planning a graduation party, make sure you give Kim a call in advance to book a consultation at 503-228-1920.

555 SW Oak St. Portland

GIFTS FOR GUYS:

Hair M
If you know your son, brother, or significant other has been working hard to finish school and could use some major relaxation, give him a gift certificate to Hair M. Here he will be treated like a king while indulging in a Hot Stone Massage or Hot Towel Straight Razor Shave.

101 SW Main St., Portland
3300 SW Hocken Ave. Beaverton

The Dapper Cap
At the Dapper Cap, choose from over 2,500 hats from which to give the (guy or gal) grad in your life and present it to them neatly wrapped in a proper hat package. If you can’t choose which one to buy, give your grad a gift certificate so they can come in on a day that The Dapper Cap is hosting one of their typical events with live DJ’s and performers.

128 NW 23rd Ave. Portland

Bridge City Comics
Now that the grad in your life has time to put down the textbooks, maybe they can reach for some more entertaining reading. Find it at Bridge City Comics where they offer thousands of graphic novels as well as a Portland-based creators section.

3725 N. Mississippi Ave. Portland

GIFTS FOR GALS:

Garnish Apparel
The best way to offer a gift from Garnish is to take your grad or give them a gift certificate, because at this local Portland shop they present each customer with individualized attention and personalized service. Your grad can pick out a dress for the big day and have it customized using ribbons, fabrics, and buttons to create a piece that truly reflects her personality and style.

1524 NE Alberta St. Portland

Stella’s on 21st
A personal favorite of mine, I turn to Stella’s for most of my small gift and card purchases. They have a great selection of local artisan jewelry, art, fun trinkets and other accessories; plus the ladies who work there are as sweet as they come. Pop in to Stella’s and you are sure to find something special for your graduate.

1108 NW 21st Ave. Portland

Blush Beauty Bar
Blush Beauty Bar is a fashionista’s paradise and sure to be a hit for the gal grad on your list. Take her on a mini shopping spree and watch her eyes light up as she looks through beautiful blush, shadows, lipsticks and more. She can even have her makeup professionally done at Blush before her commencement ceremony or graduation party.

513 NW 23rd Ave. Portland

Insight from Makeup Artist, Sheila Patel

May 21, 2010 by Jennifer L. | Comments (0)

Whether it’s just a hint of blush on our cheeks, a swab of lipgloss to our puckers, or a brush of mascara to our batting eyelashes, we all want to look and feel our best! However, with the plethora of make-up options out there, finding the right products can be quite overwhelming…what color foundation to use, what eyeshadows look best on a brown-eyed beauty, liquid eyeliner or pencil??? This is where renowned make-up artist, Sheila Patel comes into the picture. With a trained eye, a steady and skilled hand, she applies the right mixture of shadows and powders…Voila! You have your own customized look. Here is her expert advice and a video featuring the “Artist at Work”, enjoy!

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?

My sister in law, Xuan Thu Pham encouraged me to get back to doing something that I have excelled in in the past and all the credit goes to her for my getting back in.

What mistake have you made in your business that you will not repeat?

Overscheduling. Earlier on in my career when I just started out, there was a time when I was working continuously from one makeup client to another in a single day. Because I worked with more clients than I could manage in one day, I felt that I did not put in the effort and time that each client deserved. I wanted to give the focus and attention to each person, but with time against me, I was not able to do that. From that experience on, I never did that again. Each customer is special to me and I’ll only work on a client at a time – that is my philosophy.

What is your favorite make-up brand?

I like different makeup brands for different reasons. I use MAC, Shu Uemura, Glauca Rossi, NARS, Makeup Forever, Ben Nye, and Kryolan. In fact, I have so many different brands in my professional makeup toolbox that I can’t name all the brands I enjoy using. Each brand is uniquely used for different purposes and events such as TV or weddings. As an everyday favorite makeup brand, I like Bobbi Brown.

What defines the Bollywood style? Do you think it would cross-over to the U.S.?

I’m glad you asked me this question because so many people have different notions of what the “Bollywood style” is and what it really means. Coming from Mumbai and having worked with Bollywood and MTV – I see the different perceptions of how people view Bollywood. What defines the Bollywood style has more to do with what you see on a film set: the movie scenes, dance scenes, and the ensemble of women who dress up in extravagant attire along with the extravagant makeup to go with it. Bollywood is about glamour, visual performance artistry, and telling a story.

This is why a Bollywood style is not suitable for everyday looks. If you’ve ever seen a wedding scene from a Bollywood film, you’ll notice the rich colors, embroideries, and magnificent jewelry that the women are wearing. Also notice their makeup – it’s created and done up to be very dramatic. When you wear such beautiful clothes, your face is competing with it and pales in comparison to what you’re wearing. That’s why it has to look very dramatic.

I think it the Bollywood look can absolutely cross over to the U.S. if it’s in the wedding space. However, with everyday looks, it might be too much, especially without the costumes. But if you’re up for that look for yourself, why not?

What is your favorite make-up look for spring/summer?

I have this secret passion for the orange and yellow color theme. If it’s done well, it can really work for you. Case in point: you can use a yellow eyeshadow

and apply it over your eyelids. Then use an orange eyeshadow to contour the lids as well as the edges. Next, you can define your eyes with black eyeliner and mascara – and voila. Most people think they can’t use these colors, but you can!

What is the most common make-up mistakes you see people make?

Mismatched foundation has to be the topper on the list. This is the most common mistake I’d like to see people stop making. Coming from an Asian country, there is an obsession to have fair skin. People try to correct that by using light foundation. The end result? Your skin will end up looking grey. Also, some people tend to incorrectly use bronzers or foundation that’s too dark for them, which are really too orange for one’s face. This looks hideous.

A good indicator of using the proper foundation for yourself is to reference it in natural sunlight. Typically, when you buy it in the mall under fluorescent lighting, it’s easy to make the mistake of buying the wrong color for your skintone. What you can do is apply a small amount from the tester on your skin – step outside and see if it matches your skin. Just be true to your skin tone and be proud of your natural beauty.

Visit Sheila Patel at:

Website: sheilapatelsf.com

Blog: bit.ly/MakingFaces

Twitter: bit.ly/cZvamc

Facebook: bit.ly/cKLfS7

YouTube: bit.ly/91hB9F

What We’re Craving: Mani-Pedi’s

May 19, 2010 by Stephanie M. | Comments (0)

This past weekend, signs that summer is on the way were all around us. The sun was out, birds were chirping, flowers were in bloom; I think I even heard an ice cream truck. With the onset of the sunshine, it’s also time to bring back your much anticipated warm weather rituals. For some this may include gardening or spring cleaning, maybe shopping for your new go-to dress or going on a hike. No matter what your spring to-do list includes, make sure you include a fresh manicure and pedicure towards the top. Sit back, relax and get sandal-approved toes at one of these local shops.

Beauty Bar Portland
At Beauty Bar Portland, don’t expect your typical nail salon. Oh no! The Beauty Bar is a vintage beauty parlor and bar, complete with stiff drinks, music, and mixologists. For a unique night on the town, grab your friends and head to the Beauty Bar for their famous Martini & Manicure happy hour, where you can get thoroughly pampered while enjoying a delicious cocktail and live music. Happy hour is offered Monday through Friday from 4-7 pm and Saturday from 6 pm to midnight.

Beauty Bar Portland
111 SW Ash Street
Portland, OR 97204
503-224-0773

Lace Beauty
Lace Beauty, located in the Pearl is the perfect place to be pampered with one of their signature hand and foot treatments. Try the Spa Pedicure, which will leave your feet soft and soothed from exfoliation, massage, paraffin dip, vitamin E and essential oils. If you really want to relax, enhance your treatment with a hot stone massage and slip into serenity.

Lace Beauty
405 NW Tenth Avenue
Portland, OR
503-208-3183

The Nail Sanctuary
Need a break from the hustle-and-bustle of daily life? Sneak away for some individualized attention at the Nail Sanctuary. Esthetician Cindi Rice treats one client at a time to a variety of tranquil and relaxing services. The Cooling Comfort pedicure is perfect for women on the go with its cooling combination of peppermint, chamomile and botanicals used to energize and rejuvenate tired feet. But it doesn’t stop here; Cindi provides extra refreshment with a peppermint-infused foot masque and cool towel wrap.

The Nail Sanctuary
The Old Sellwood Square
8235 S.E. 13th Avenue, Suite 4
Portland, Oregon 97202
503-236-4567

The Grand SalonSpa
Need a chocolate fix? The Grand SalonSpa is the place to go to satisfy your craving. Try the Chocolate Indulgence Manicure and Pedicure and prepare for cocoa bliss. You will be indulged with the finest chocolate treatment, beginning with chocolate and mint exfoliation, followed by a hand massage and of course all the classic mani/pedi services. If your hands are really overworked, instead try the nourishing Grand Caviar & Pearl Manicure for extra rejuvenation.

The Grand SalonSpa
4200 SW Watson Ave
Beaverton, OR 97005
503-644-2800

Portland Spa and Boutique
At the Portland Spa and Boutique, owner Danielle VanAuken and her staff deliver organic treatments served in a luxurious spa atmosphere on the South Waterfront. The “Wisdom” pedicure uses the powerful anti-oxidants of green tea to sooth and renew tired feet. Also try the “Citrus Lemonade Manicure” to energize and refresh your mind and body as the citrus aroma excites your senses.

Portland Spa and Botique
0315 SW Montgomery Street, Suite 390
Portland, Oregon 97201
503-222-0105

Where do you go for your all of your spring pampering?

Our CRAVE Beauty Secrets Revealed

May 10, 2010 by Karina | Comments (0)

As fabulous as every CRAVE woman is, we all could benefit from a session of beauty secret-swapping. Long days and long nights hopping from place to amazing place can take its toll on even the most impeccably gorgeous glower. To gain insight on how the girl-about-town stays looking her best, we’ve asked our resident staff at CRAVE what types of tricks were up their sleeves. And unlike other kinds of secrets, we don’t feel guilty for sharing these at all!

Hair

• Try fabric softener for a great leave-in conditioner. Dilute a 1/2 cup with 1 cup of water and for softer, fresher locks.
• For between shampoos: degrease oily hair with witch hazel. Apply to your roots with a cotton ball.
• When hair starts looking dull from too many products, use translucent face powder on the roots and brush through to give hair a subtle shine.

Skin

• To lighten age spots and sun-damaged skin, mix the juice of 1 lemon, 1 lime, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 ounces of plain yogurt. Gently massage into each spot weekly for noticeable results.
• For a great body exfoliant, scrub with dried coffee grounds. The caffeine in coffee also helps to stimulate the growth of new skin cells.
• Keep cucumbers for your salads and use raw potato slices to remove dark under-eye circles.

Makeup

• For lips that pop, dab a little bit of red or orange color in the center to make them appear fuller.
• To give your lashes an extra lift, warm an eyelash curler with a blow dryer before using. Lashes will stay curled for longer and this trick doesn’t even require mascara!
• When applying blush or bronzer, you should first know where to apply your glow. Bend over for 30 seconds, then slowly stand up. Where your cheeks are flushed is where you are meant to blush. Apply your blush there for a naturally rosy look.

* please take caution, CRAVE does not guarantee results

Spring Eating for your Healthy Body

April 26, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

We are all familiar with the old adage of Spring cleaning, but did you know that it doesn’t just apply to your closet? Spring cleaning is also important for our bodies and very helpful in flushing toxins, losing weight and creating increased energy. The best place to start your spring cleaning is with spring eating! Jamie G. Dougherty, owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling, offers us a fresh approach. Spring foods are light, water-logged, and perfect for cleaning out our systems of excess junk. Some of the most popular spring foods include:

Asparagus: High in potassium and folate which aids the cardiovascular system- Roast with olive, sea salt, and pepper with a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Artichokes: A good source of iron and calcium- Steam and enjoy with your favorite vinaigrette.

Dandelion Greens: Aid in liver cleansing- Blanch, then sauté with garlic, olive oil, and top with currants and pine nuts.

Green garlic: Delicious young garlic plant that has anti-bacterial properties- A perfect addition to eggs or a frittata.

Radishes: Very high a vitamin C. Eat them raw or dip in hummus or your favorite dressing.

The best place to find spring foods it at your local farmer’s market where vendors will have the freshest produce available. Here is a perfect dish to get your started. Who ever thought spring cleaning could taste so good? Enjoy!

1/2 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut in 1-inch pieces and blanched for 3 minutes
Sea salt to taste
2 cups brown rice, freshly made or leftover
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, tarragon, marjoram
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

1. Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, salt, mustard and garlic. Whisk in the oil, taste and adjust seasonings.

2. Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces and place in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Add asparagus to the rice and toss together with the Dijon dressing.

4. Add the fresh herb and pumpkin seeds and toss all together. Taste, adjust seasonings and serve.　

To reheat leftover rice: Place cold rice in a small pot with ÂĽ-1/2 cup of water (depending on amount of rice). Bring to medium heat and let steam for 4-5 minutes, or until water has evaporated. Remove rice from the heat and mix with your dressing.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at:　www.jamieliving.blogspot.com

Jamie is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Next Page »