Ask Maxy

MAXY TAKES A WALK ON THE LIGHTER SIDE

Dear Maxy ,

I have heard there are five secrets to a great relationship ... do you happen to know what they are ?

Grace  ..Baltimore

Dear Grace,

As a matter of fact I do .

1) It is important  to find a man who works around the house , occasionally cooks , cleans and has a good job.

2) It is important to find a man  who  makes you laugh .

3) It is important to find a man who is dependable , respectful and doesn't lie .

4) It is important to find a man who's good in bed and loves to have sex with you.

5) It is most important that these four men never meet !

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

Oh joy ! ... I have such great news  ... my boyfriend  Horatio just told me that he's ready to make a commitment .

Edna  .. Jacksonville

Dear Edna,

Don't get carried away my dear ...when a guy says he wants to make a commitment  it usually mean he's sick of  masturbation .

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

Oh wise one , I just can't figure out men, what are they really like ?

Carla

Dear Carla,

Well let me put it  like this : Men are like coffee ...the best ones are rich , warm , full-bodied and can keep you up all night long ...men are also like  mascara ...they usually run at the first sign of emotion.

Maxy

Dear Maxy,

What do you think of all the  sex they are having on  television these days  ?

Paula ... Petaluma

Dear Paula ,

I think having sex on a television would be uncomfortable  ... I much perfer a bed  , or even a mattress on the floor, but I get ' to each his own' .

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

My boyfriend Alphonse lies to me , cheats on me  and stays out  drinking with his buddies, I'm at my wits' end . Why  were men given larger brains than dogs ?

Ola Mae

Dear Ola Mae ,

Simple my dear , so they won't hump women legs at cocktail parties .

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

I'm about to get married  and I'm afraid to admit it but I don't know much about sex ! Can you fill me in ?

Daniel

Dear Daniel,

There are five kinds of sex :

1) Sunny sex , this happens during the honeymoon  period when you both keep doing it  until you are blue in the face.

2) The kitchen sex , this is the beginning of the marriage, you'll have sex anywhere , anytime, even in the kitchen.

3) The bedroom sex , you've calmed down a bit , perhaps even have kids , so you get to do it in the bedroom.

4) Hallway sex , this is when you pass each other in the hallway and say, 'Go Screw Yourself !'

5) The last but not the least is the courtroom sex, this is when you get divorced and your wife screws you in front of everyone in the courtroom !

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

I just wanted to let you know that I've been going out with my boyfriend Melvin for almost five years now, he's so loving and kind and thoughtful ... he always bring me flowers when he comes to visit.

Nancy

Dear Nancy ,

My dear , dear girl , doncha think it's about time you taught the cheap bastard to spell ...... J-E-W-E-L-R-Y  ?

Dear Maxy,

I am so fed up with men !!! They lie, cheat and forget your birthday  and play poker with their buddies until all hours of the night ! I've had it with them . Why did God put men on earth anyway ?

Daisy

Dear Daisy .

Because a 'vibrator'  can't mow the lawn . HeHe

Maxy

Armadillos Spreading Leprosy in Southern United States

 

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - With some genetic sleuthing, scientists have fingered a likely culprit in the spread of leprosy in the southern United States: the nine-banded armadillo.DNA tests show a match in the leprosy strain between some patients and these prehistoric-looking critters — a connection scientists had suspected but until now couldn't pin down. "Now we have the link," said James Krahenbuhl, who heads a government leprosy program that led the new study.

Most leprosy cases which occur each year in the U.S.  are among travellers to places like India, Brazil and Angola where it's more common. Leprosy is known medically as Hansen's disease and curable if promptly treated. Armadillos are one of the very few mammals that harbour the bacteria that cause the sometimes disfiguring disease, which first shows up as an unusual lumpy skin lesion. The risk is reasonably low for getting Leprosy from armadillos.

Researchers at the National Hansen's Disease Programs in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, led an international team of scientists who published their findings in Thursday's New England Journal of Medicine. They think it requires frequent handling of armadillos or eating their meat for leprosy to spread. DNA samples were taken from 33 wild armadillos in Arkansas, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, where they're sometimes referred to as "hillbilly speed bumps" because they're often run over by cars. Scientists also took skin biopsies from 50 leprosy patients being treated at a Baton Rouge clinic. Three-quarters had never had foreign exposure, but lived in Southern states where they could have been exposed to armadillos.
An analysis found that samples from the patients and armadillos were genetically similar to each other and were different from leprosy strains found elsewhere in the world. The unique strain was found in 28 armadillos and 25 patients.

Of the 15 patients for whom researchers had information, seven said they had no contact with armadillos; eight said they did, including one who routinely hunted and ate them. While the work did not document direct transmission from animal to human, "the evidence is pretty convincing that it happens," said Dr. Brian Currie, an infectious disease expert at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, who had no role in the study.

Leprosy remains a problem in tropical hot spots of the world with some 250,000 new infections reported each year. Like tuberculosis, it can stay dormant for years before attacking the skin and nerves.
While leprosy is infectious, it's hard to catch. Those most at risk are family members who are in constant contact with an untreated person. Leprosy can't be spread through casual contact such as handshaking, or sexual intercourse.

The disease has long been misunderstood and those who contracted it were often shunned. Fear of its spread led some countries to quarantine people. False stories about fingers and toes falling off added to the stigma. The disease is curable with prompt treatment of antibiotics before complications set in. The drugs typically kill the bacteria within days and make it non-contagious. It usually takes a year or two to fully clear the germ from the body. If left untreated, leprosy can cause nerve damage so severe that people lose feeling in their fingers and toes, leading to deformity and disability.

While the germ attacks the skin, hands and feet of humans, it tends to infect the liver, spleen and lymph node of armadillos. "Leave the animals alone," advised lead researcher Richard Truman of the National Hansen's Disease Programs.

 So don't cuddle or kiss an armadillo no matter how cute he is.

Barbecued Garlic Ribs

By The Homemakers Test Kitchen

These toothsome ribs are great for a weeknight because they need marinate for only a short time. For a spicy version, add up to 1 tsp (5 mL) cayenne pepper to the marinade, or serve with your favourite hot sauce. Grilled vegetables on the side work well with the ribs.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup  (60 mL)  soy sauce

10 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp  (15 mL)  granulated sugar

1 tbsp  (15 mL)  sesame oil

2-1/2 lbs  (1.25 kg)  centre-cut pork side rib (three long strips)

4 green onions, minced

Preparation:

In large shallow dish, combine soy sauce, garlic, sugar and sesame oil; add ribs, turning to coat. Marinate at room temperature for at least 10 or up to 30 minutes. Reserving marinade, place ribs on greased grill over medium-high heat. Close lid and grill, basting with marinade for the first 20 minutes and turning once, until ribs are tender, about 30 minutes.

Sprinkle half of the onions over one side of ribs; turn and sprinkle with remaining onions. Close lid and grill, turning once, for 5 minutes. Transfer to cutting board; let stand for 5 minutes.
(Alternatively, arrange ribs on foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with onions and pour reserved marinade over top; bake in 400F/200C oven until ribs are tender, 30 to 40 minutes.)
Cut into individual pieces.
Makes 6 servings.

It's really gooood.

Bubba's hot Sweet Sauce...Not Just for Grilling

  Borrowed from All Recipes:  http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/bubbas-best-bbq-sauce/Detail.aspx

A hot-sweet sauce that is good on just about anything. And just in time for barbecue season. Great on ribs. You can use any kind of cola in this recipe, just don't

use diet cola. It makes the sauce bitter."

Ingredients:

1 cup cola-flavored carbonated beverage

1 cup canned tomato sauce

1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

1/4 cup butter

1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup molasses

1/2 cup cider vinegar

2 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

1 1/2 tablespoons steak sauce

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon dried savory

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Directions:

In a large saucepan, mix together the cola, tomato sauce, tomato paste, butter, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, molasses, cider and balsamic vinegars, steak sauce, and mustard. Season with chili powder, savory, onion powder, garlic salt, and hot pepper sauce, and stir to blend. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a metal spoon. Sure is yummy.

Brie en Croute

1/2 of a 17.3 -ounce pkg . Pepperidge Farm* Puff Pastry ( 1 sheet)

1 egg

1 Tbsp . water

1/2 cup dried cherries ,softened

1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans

1/4 cup honey

1/2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary leaves

1 (3.2 ounces) Brie cheese round

Directions

Thaw pastry sheet at room temperature  , 40 minutes, or until it's easy to handle.

Heat oven to 400*F . Beat egg and water in a small bowl.

Unfold the pastry sheet on lightly floured surface . roll sheet  into a 14 in. square. Stir cherries , pecans , honey and rosemary in bowl .Spread cherry mixture on the  center of the square . Top with cheese .

Brush edges of pastry with egg mixture  . Fold two opposite sides over cheese .Trim remaining two sides of square to 2 inches from edge of cheese . Fold sides up onto  cheese and press sides to seal.

Place seam side down onto baking sheet . Decorate top with pastry scraps or additional rosemary if desired , brush with egg mixture .

Bake for 20 --25 minutes , or until pastry is deep golden brown , let stand for 45 minutes.

Hint : Soften cherries  in half cup hot water . Let stand for  1 minute . Drain and pat dry.

It's heart healthy ... I have to make it at least once a week for my father-in-law .

Cry-baby 'Link to Behavioural Problems'...British Study

Babies who cry excessively and have problems feeding and sleeping have a greater risk of serious behavioural problems later in life, say scientists.One in five babies has symptoms that could lead to conditions such as ADHD, according to research published in Archives of Disease in Childhood.
The review of previous studies looked at nearly 17,000 children. Crying in babies is normal, but some cry "excessively" after the age of three months for reasons other than colic. An international group of researchers looked at this as well as problems eating and sleeping.

By comparing data from 22 studies from 1987 to 2006, they found a link between these issues and problems later in life. There was an increased risk of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), anxiety and depression as well as aggressive behaviour. The research showed that a baby with more than one risk factor was even more likely to develop behavioural problems.

Professor Dieter Wolke, from the University of Warwick, said "It is about a 100% increase in risk, a doubling of risk of behavioural problems with excessive crying, sleeping and eating problems." Jane Valente, a consultant paediatrician at Great Ormond Street Hospital, said: "It would be wrong for people to get overly alarmed. I don't think on the basis of this report people should be rushing to their GPs."

The study cannot tell if issues as a baby cause behavioural problems later in life but they could be an early symptom of those later problems. Professor Wolke said while there were treatments for problem crying, feeding and sleeping in babies, there was no research assessing their impact later in life. He added: "If you could prevent behavioural problems with an early intervention,  it could be very important."

The Truth About Why Men Cheat..The Men Speak Up

 

What makes men cheat? Marriage counselor M. Gary Neuman dug through past research on male infidelity and found that most answers came from the wife's point of view. Wouldn't it make more sense to ask the guys? he thought. So for his new book, The Truth About Cheating, Neuman surveyed 200 cheating and noncheating husbands to get at the real reasons behind men's infidelity — including what cheating men say could have prevented them from straying. Here, some of his findings:

48% of men rated emotional dissatisfaction as the primary reason they cheated.
So much for the myth that for men, cheating is all about sex: Only 8 percent of men said that sexual dissatisfaction was the main factor in their infidelity. "Our culture tells us that all men need to be happy is sex," Neuman says. "But men are emotionally driven beings too. They want their wives to show them that they're appreciated, and they want women to understand how hard they're trying to get things right." The problem is that men are less likely than women to express these feelings, so you won't always know when your guy is in need of a little affirmation. "Most men consider it unmanly to ask for a pat on the back, which is why their emotional needs are often overlooked," Neuman says. "But you can create a marital culture of appreciation and thoughtfulness — and once you set the tone, he's likely to match it."

66% of cheating men report feeling guilt during the affair.
The implications are a little scary: It isn't just uncaring jerks who cheat. In fact, 68 percent of cheaters never dreamed they'd be unfaithful, and almost all of them wished they hadn't done it, Neuman says. Clearly, guilt isn't enough to stop a man from cheating. "Men are good at compartmentalizing feelings," Neuman explains. "They can hold on to their emotions and deal with them later." So even if your husband swears he would never cheat, don't assume it can't happen. It's important for both of you to take steps toward creating the marriage you want.

77% of cheating men have a good friend who cheated.
Hanging around friends who stray makes cheating seem normal and legitimizes it as a possibility. The message he's subconsciously telling himself: My friend is a good guy who happens to be cheating on his wife. I guess even the best of us do it. You can't simply ban your husband from hanging out with Mr. Wandering Eyes, Neuman says, but you can request that they spend their time together in an environment that offers less temptation, like at a sporting event or a restaurant for lunch rather than at a bar or club. Another strategy: Build your social circle around happily married couples that share your values — it'll create an environment that supports marriage.

40% of cheating men met the other woman at work.
"Oftentimes the woman he cheats with at the office is someone who praises him, looks up to him, and compliments his efforts," Neuman says. "That's another reason why it's so critical that he feel valued at home." Luckily, there's a clear warning sign that your husband is getting a little too cozy with a colleague: If he praises or mentions the name of a female coworker more than he would a male counterpart, your antennae should go up — and it's time for the two of you to set boundaries about what is and isn't okay at work, Neuman says. Is it acceptable for him to work late if it's only him and her? Can they travel together to conferences? Have dinners out to discuss a project? Ask him what he'd feel comfortable with you doing with a male colleague.

Only 12% of cheating men said their mistress was more physically attractive than their wife.
In other words, a man doesn't stray because he thinks he'll get better sex with a better-looking body. "In most cases, he's cheating to fill an emotional void," Neuman says. "He feels a connection with the other woman, and sex comes along for the ride." If you're worried about infidelity, focus on making your relationship more loving and connected, not on getting your body just right or mastering new sexual positions. (But know that sex does matter — it's one of the key ways your guy expresses his love and feels close to you, so be sure to keep it a priority.)

Only 6% of cheating men had sex with a woman after meeting her that same day or night.
Actually, 73 percent of men got to know the other woman for more than a month before they cheated. This means that you may have time to see the warning signs before infidelity occurs — you might even see it coming before he does. Keep an eye out for these common signals: He spends more time away from home, stops asking for sex, picks fights more frequently, or avoids your calls. Your gut reaction may be to confront him, but most men will deny even thinking about cheating — especially if nothing physical has occurred yet. Instead, Neuman suggests, take charge of what you can control — your own behavior — and take the lead in bringing your marriage to a better place. Don't hesitate to show your appreciation for him, prioritize time together, and initiate sex more. Give him a reason to keep you at the front of his mind, Neuman says. And be open about how you feel about what's going on between the two of you (again, without mentioning any third parties). Try, "I think we've started to lose something important in our marriage, and I don't want it to disappear." In the meantime, commit to keeping tabs on your relationship and doing what it takes to keep it working for you.

If you still love him and value the relationship, then honey, It's worth saving.

What Turns Him Off

Are you unknowingly turning him off with your new perfume or major smoky eye? We got real guys to give us the details on the looks they’re not going crazy over. Read through to see what they had to say.
Eyeliner Overload
"The raccoon-eye makeup look à la Taylor Momsen is a big turnoff for me. All that eye shadow and eyeliner makes it look like she doesn't know how to use makeup, like a little girl." – Lawrence, 22
Super Scented
"When a girl wears a ton of perfume, I feel like I can't breathe. If I can't taste my drink because all I can smell is whatever scent you're wearing, I'm probably not going to ask for your number." – Peter, 22
Cat Woman Nails
"I really dislike super-long nails. They look so unnatural and cat-like. And when a girl taps them when she gets impatient, that makes it even worse." – Lawrence, 22
Makeup Mishaps
"I don't like when I can see a girl's foundation at her neckline. It makes me wonder why she doesn't like the way her face looks naturally, and it's clear she wears a lot of makeup. Or at least it's clear that she can't blend her makeup into her neck so that it's not obvious." – Alex, 31
Blinding Pearly Whites
"Overly-white teeth are a turnoff for me. I know you bleached them, and it looks synthetic and unnatural. In fact, I think it makes a woman's face look harsh." –Brian, 42
Honey Kisses
"I'm not a fan of sticky lip gloss. When I kiss her it feels like she's got honey smeared on her lips. Plus, I don't want to wear her lip gloss after we kiss." –Geoff, 23
A Jersey Shore Hairstyle
"The Snooki poof is not an attractive look. Overall I'd say avoid any look that makes your head seem like it's cone-shaped." –Brian, 42
Beauty Illusions
"I knew a woman who would draw a fake beauty mark on her face whenever we would go out. It's just obviously unnatural, and no guy is going to be into it when your beauty mark washes off in the rain." – Bryce, 23
Fake Baking
"I hate when girls go out of their way to be overly tan, especially if they didn't need it in the first place. Healthy, natural skin is far more attractive." –Addison, 19
Confidence Killer
"I dated a woman who would get really stressed out every time she didn't shave her legs for a day or two, and insist that I wouldn't like her as much. To be honest, I'm still going to think you're hot even if you go one day without shaving your legs, but if you keep declaring that that I'm not into you, I'm going to start wondering why I am in the first place." –Michael, 42


Are you guilty of any of these turnoffs?

Sexy Plus Size Swimsuits For Your Body

The hot season can make any woman feel a little uneasy , especially when it's time to jump into the pool. This year instead of recoiling or hanging out on the side lines , don a fabulous , sexy swimsuit that accents the best  features of your body.

You can go with a two-piece , a one piece  or something in-between , but whatever you c hoose  , make sure you feel comfortable . Also consider how active you'll be in the water . If you plan to do some major swimming strokes , opt for a garment that supports and holds everything in place . If you want to rock the lounger  and take a dip every once  in a while , go with something playful .

Here are a few favorite plus size swimsuits of the season . Let us know  what you think about them in the comments below.

A... Land's End Women Plus Size  All-over Control Slender Demi  Swimsuit ..$38

B... Land's End  Women Plus Size  Beach Living Paisley Print V-Neck Tankini Swimsuit ...$65

C... Just My Size  Princess Seam Swimsuit ... $38

D... Miraclesuit  Plus Size Solitaire Escape Swimsuit... $154

E... Avenue Plus Size Spliced Swimsuit  W/Tummy control ... $65

F... Women's Plus Size Seaside Halter One Piece Swimsuit... $75

Ask Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

We have a dear friend we would never want to hurt , but she is almost unbearable  to be around  because she talks non-stop . A person can hardly get a word in edgewise . When she does stop to talk a breath  and I interject something, she rolls right over me  as if nothing was said .

I hate to talk to her on the phone  because I cannot dis-engage . It would be difficult to avoid her . She recently had a bout with depression , which we suspect was triggered by a friend broaching this subject.

Carla

Dear Carla ,

A common reason for someone to become a chatterbox is hearing loss . Your friend may be speaking over you  and talking non-stop because she is trying to hide the fact that she cannot hear the other side of the conversation . If you can bring this up (perhaps by claiming you are suffering from the same problem) suggest she talk to her doctor about it . Until then , you can dis-engage by saying , "Sorry I have to run . I'll talk to you later."

Maxy

Dear Maxy,

My sister is almot 50-year-old  and still picks her nose in public . When I am with her , it is very embarrassing . She uses a tissue , but nontheless shoves her fingers up her nose . It is not subtle .

I've told her to stop doing this and to blow her nose like a normal person, but she doesn't listen . I know she often is alienated from co-workers  and I suspect this bad habit may be causing her to miss job-related opportunities . How can I get her to listen ?

Picky's Sister

Dear Picky's Sister,

Constant nose picking can be an obsessive-compulsive disorder triggered by stress . Or it could be that her nose itches  a lot . But some habits are so ingrained , they are done unconsciously . In order for your sister to stop sticking her fingers up her nose , she will have to be aware that she's doing it  and wants to stop .

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

My friend is a nice woman who did a bad thing  . She started dating a mutual friend , who was married . She didn't sneak around or anything  . She just seemingly sidled up to him , and after awhile , he was hooked . I am so mad at her . She knew he was married , and it didn't seem to make a bit of a difference . I don't think I can be her friend anymore  . But that's awkward because I'm close to him and don't want to end that friendship . What should I do ?

Linda

Dear Linda ,

First , I have to tell you that it takes two to be involved in an affair . I wonder if you realize what you just said. You are mad at your female friend  to the point of ending that friendship , but you still want to be friends with the man . Do you realize that both of them is at fault ? If you are thinking  of eliminating a friend  from your life because of immoral behavior, it seems to me  that both have to go .

Your view of this situation seems hypocritical . It's not  OK for  either person to participate in infidelity.

Maxy

Blackened Salmon With Pineapple Rice

                  Prep time 25 minutes ... Total : 25 minutes ... Serves 4

1  cup long-grain white rice

8  oz. fresh pineapple , cut into  1/2 inch pieces

1 to 2 jalapenos , seeded and finely chopped

1/2  cup fresh cilantro , chopped

1 1/2 lb. skinless salmon fillet , cut into four pieces

2 Tbsp. blackening spice mix or sodium-free cajun seasoning

1) cook the rice according to package directions . Fluff with a folk  and fold in the pineapple , jalpenos and cilantro .

2) Meanwhile , heat a large skillet over medium heat . Coat both sides of the salmon with the seasoning mix and cook , covered  until opaque throughout and blackened  , 3 to 4 minutes per side . Serve with rice.

Prep tip :

To easily clean cilantro , hold it by its stems , submerge the leafy tops in a bowl of water and swish around vigorously ; grit and sand will sink to the bottom. Shake off the excess water and pat dry with a paper towel.

Heart healthy.

Roasted Pear-Spinach Salad

                                Start to finish : 1  hour

1  tsp. butter

2  firm-ripe pears

1  1/2  tsp. sugar

1/2  cup sliced almonds

1  cup dried cranberries

8  slices ciabatta bread

3 oz.  blue cheese

1/3  cup cider vinegar

2   tbsap. pomegranate molasses  or honey

1  Tbsp. Dijon mustard

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

6  oz. baby spinach

1) preheat oven to 450*F

Grease baking sheet with butter , Core pears and cut  each into 8" wedges  ; toss with sugar  and place on baking sheet , cut sides down . Bake 15 minutes until brown on the undersides . Tranfer to wax paper to cool.

2) Place almonds on top ungreased baking sheet  and toast 3 to 5 minutes . Tranfer to a bowl . Stir in half of the cranberries  and sat aside.

3) Reduce oven to 400*f  ; Cut each slice of bread in half . Brush each side with a little olive oil   and toast on  baking sheet  3 minutes  on each side. remove from oven ; crumble cheese  and divide among roasts . Return to oven and bake 4 to 5 minutes  more.

4) Meanwhile , in blender combine remaining cranberries , the vinegar , molasses and mustard . Blend until smooth . Season with salt and pepper . With blender running  , add 1/3 cup  oil in a slow , steady stream.

5) In bowl toss together the spinach , half the almond mixture  and vinaigrette to taste . Divide  spinach among tumblers  ; top with pears , toasts and additional almond mixture .  Serve immediately . Makes 8 to 10 appetizer serving.

Hints 

Stay simple : Tumblers are a fun way to serve the pear and blue cheese  salad.

Create a look : I like to use lots of small votive candles on the table when entertaining a small group .

Make it a main  : To turn the salad into an entree , add grilled chicken or salmon and serve it either on a buffet or on  individual plates.

Six Snacks You Should Eat Every Day.

"I eat healthy, and I don't snack between meals; why can't I lose any weight?"

 I listened to my friend, nodding sympathetically, because I couldn't speak—I had a mouth full of almonds and was washing them down with chocolate milk. She stared at me as though I'd just backed over her puppy. "You eat all the time, and you never gain weight!" she exclaimed. "What, is there a picture in your attic that gets fatter while you stay thin?"

"I never gain weight because I eat all the time," I explained, reaching for a napkin. "Not snacking is exactly the wrong thing to do!"

Our bodies evolved to graze; when food gets scarce, we start to retain fat as a way of protecting ourselves from famine. "That's exactly what happens when you don't snack between meals. Your body doesn't know where its next meal is coming from, so it's afraid to shed the extra pounds. Worse, you wind up eating more than you need at every meal.

That's why snacking is so important: In fact, when Penn State researchers fed subjects just one humble apple before mealtime, the subjects consumed nearly 190 fewer calories.  Think of it this way: The more you eat, the more you lose. Sounds great, right? But you need to snack smartly, and stock your kitchen with the nibbles on this list.

1. BEST YOGURT
Fage 2% Plain Greek Yogurt (7 oz container)
130 calories
4 g fat (3 g saturated)
17 g protein
8 g sugars

Yogurt is teeming with calcium, which promotes muscle growth; and probiotic bacteria, which bolsters your immune system. What's more, study participants who ate yogurt daily lost 81 percent more belly fat than those who didn't, according to a study published in the International Journal of Obesity. So why Greek? Because the Greek stuff has more than double the protein of standard American-style yogurt-and far less sugar. Want to make it even healthier? Add a few berries along with some nuts or seeds.

DID YOU KNOW? Sleepy women eat an extra 328 calories per day, according a new study from the New York Obesity Research Center.

2. BEST FINGER FOOD
Almonds (1 oz)
163 calories
14 g fat (1 g saturated)
6 g protein
3.5 g fiber
Almonds are an excellent source of heart-healthy monosaturated fats, and, pound for pound, a better source of protein than eggs. That's part of the reason why research published in the journal Obesity demonstrated that people who frequently eat nuts are less likely to gain weight. Just be sure to eat them whole: A study from the Journal of Nutrition found that the flavonoids in the skin combine with the vitamin E in the nut to double the antioxidant dose.

The right breakfast will jumpstart your metabolism and have you burning more calories throughout the day. The wrong one will fill you up with empty calories and an entire day’s worth of fat, sugar, and salt.

3. BEST CEREAL  
Kashi GoLean Original (1 cup with 1/2 cup of 1% milk)
195 calories
2.5 g fat (.5 g saturated)
12 g sugars
17 g protein
10 g fiber

You know how you're not supposed to judge a book by its cover? Well the same rule applies to cereal. Some cereals look healthy but actually have as much sugar as a candy bar. Kashi's GoLean lives up to its healthy moniker. This bowl has twice as much fiber as an apple, three times as much protein as a large egg, and even with milk it manages to keep the calorie load below 200 per bowl.

DID YOU KNOW? Studies show that people underestimate how many calories are in restaurant meals by nearly 100 percent!

4. BEST DIP SNACK
Sabra Roasted Red Pepper Hummus (2 Tbsp with 10 baby carrots)
105 calories
6 g fat (1 g saturated)
200 mg sodium
2.5 g protein
4 g fiber

Hummus is composed primarily of chickpeas, which have been shown to help regulate blood sugar—probably due to their salutary balance of protein and fiber. Most of that fiber is insoluble, so it promotes colon health. One study even found that people who added chickpeas to their diet ended up taking in fewer total calories. Add to that a few baby carrots and you get the added benefit of vision-preserving, skin-soothing beta-carotene.
 You can lose 10, 20, 30 or more pounds while still eating your favorite foods, and without dieting, if you make smart swaps throughout your day.

  5. BEST DRINK
Lowfat chocolate milk (1 cup)
160 calories
2.5 g fat (1.5 g saturated)
25 g sugars
8 g protein
You probably know that dairy products are an ideal source of calcium, but did you know that calcium actually interferes with your body's ability to absorb fat? To enjoy that effect, though, you need the vitamin D, so thankfully dairy producers add it to milk. Regular, non-chocolate milk offers this benefit, but research shows that chocolate milk might have an edge on the white stuff. A study published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism showed that participants who drank chocolate milk before mounting stationary bikes were able to ride 49 percent longer than those given a generic carbohydrate-replacement beverage. Keep that in mind next time you're about to head out for an afternoon gym session.

6. BEST CRUNCHY SNACK
Newman’s Own Organics Spelt Pretzels (20 pretzels)
120 calories
1 g fat (0 g saturated)
240 mg sodium
4 g protein
4 g fiber

Spelt is a grain related to wheat that packs more fiber and protein—and at 6 calories per pretzel, the dietary bang for your buck is undeniable. Over-saltiness is always a concern with pretzels, but the sodium level in this snack is mild. Combine that with Newman's Own's longstanding support for charitable causes—and, in Nell Newman's Organics company, a robust commitment to sustainable, organic farming—and you've got a product you'll proudly pluck from the shelf. Pair these with a hunk of cheddar to rope even more protein into your snack break.

ALWAYS REMEMBER: The key is finding snacks that are low in sugar and high in protein and fiber. I know you can do it. Always remember you are a beautiful woman. Your friends here at Maxy wish you a world of good luck. We're here if you ever want to talk or give us a few of your weight loss secrets.

PS: Remember to eat that apple before mealtime.

How To Wear The Spring 2011 '70's Disco Trend

"(Today's) '70s-inspired fashion is virbrant , fun, colorful, a flashy, sexy and happy, the clothes in the stores will say look at me , the 70s sihouettes are about volume and femimin e fluidity."It's the natural cycle of fashion."  Fashion got extremely sexy , it got very tight , showin g a little skin. The rise on pants went about about as low as it can possibly go . Fashion has to start the cycle back around to the other direction to keep it new and fresh." So , what, will make you look fresh , and not like an extra from "That 70s' Show" this spring ?

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Wide-legged pants

"The wide-legged pant is really going to freshen a woman's warderobe."  "It can be extremely fletterin g . One thing women need to realize is , when the leg on the pants gets wider , it's going to balance out and give proportion to a wider hip line . The waistline is moving up more toward a natural waist , so that gives you a great lon g-legged look . When we were in this time when pants was more tapered  at the bottom , that was  accentuating the width of a woman's hip."

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The key, is to wear them with high-heel shoes.

"You can't wear wide-leg pant with your  little ballet flats ."  "You need to some how make sure the  waist is defined by either tucking in a top or wearing a boxy top or jacket that fits  right at the hip bone , leaving the waist open so you can still have this shape . If you wear a tunic top over wide-legged pants , you just become this enormous rectangle."

Something colorful :

"Bold , bright colorful clothes in orange , purple and turquoise that scream disco diva are all the rage from designers  like Marc Jacobs and Gucci .' The trend is to mix all those brights together in one outfit and you're got the  the classic '70s rainbow confection that feels so right for now."

A bit of disco , retro flair with pop colors , prints , and bright florsl chiffon . Gold lame` was all over the collection from vests to mini-dresses . The collection also included an embellished variation of  the famous wrap dress with sparkles  and ruffled tiers .

Printed material:

"mixing prints also raged in the  '70s , and the same outrageous mix has cropped up from every designer   at every price point ."  "Break the rules and mix all your prints together  ...ie : leopard with plaid . There's nothing subtle ab out it and it's fashion full of personality .

Bow blouses :

"They're solf , they're fluid , and a way of adding a touch of feminity without being overly girlie."         "One of the most chic things about the '70s was there was this very subtle  play of masculine and feminine worn together . So , that solf, feminine blouse worn with a trouser-inspired pant made a woman look feminine , but there was still that strength from the man-tailored piece."

The jumsuit :

"The easiest-to-wear jumpsuits are the ones that are more loose-fitting and relaxed ; they have a   drawstring-kind of wait to them."  "when you get into very tailored styles , they can be a little bit harder to wear , but the relaxed styles are really fun and chic . They're  for fun fashion , maybe for a night out ... I don't think you need  to fill your closets with jumsuits."

White at night :

"In the '70s , white was a very subtle way to speak to the idea of luxury and decadence "  "white , especially in evening , looks extremely chic.

Accessories :

"For shoes , it's the wedge ,"   Whether sexy and strppy or preppy and pretty , the platform wedge is the shoe of the summer  and oh , so groovy . Flower power is another big accessory trend right now . Wear your flowers on your shoes , jewelry , bags or even in the hair . Pendant necklaces and scarves wrapped in your hair are also '70s throwbacks that are big for spring."  Another accessory to look for  is gold jewelry.

"(It) speaks to the 1970s , and it can be something as simple as a bold gold or a stack of mismatched gold bracelets , we're starting to see large statements eerrings again ... chandeliers and cascades."

More fashion on the way ... tell us what's your favorate style / color .

The ‘Royals’ Get Spoofed

We'll be the first to admit that the oh-so-serious nature of the royal wedding can be a bit much. Credit cheeky European and U.S. wireless service provider T-Mobile for finding a fun way to poke fun at the hype.
The impending nuptials of Prince William and Kate Middleton get spoofed in this two-minute ad featuring look-alikes for Prince Charles, Prince Harry, Queen Elizabeth, Camilla, and, of course, the happy couple.


The  clip looks a lot like an amateur video of the royal wedding. You know, regal church, very serious guests sitting patiently. But then the wedding party starts strutting down the aisle in a most un-royal fashion, and the music starts to get funky.
Bridesmaids shake their groove thangs. Prince Charles gets jiggy with it, the Queen busts a move or two, and then Prince Harry (not really, but it looks like him) absolutely OWNS it on the aisle. Finally, Kate and William raise the roof.
The clip has to be seen to be appreciated. So, without further pomp and circumstance, here's a look at the royal wedding we'd all love to see.

Dealing With Multiple Allergies

Some people seem destine to sneeze , itch and struggle through life with multiple allergies while others may have only an occesional allergy .  Why ?

It could be in your genes . We know that children can inherit a tendency to develop allergies . Clifford W. Bassett , MD , a New York-based allergist , says if both parents have allergies , their child most likely will develoed allergies too . "People with allergic background may have food allergies , respiratory allergies and sinus problems , " says Dr. Bassett , a clinical isstructor in the division of infectious diseases and immunology at the New York University School of Medicine . "Some people may have all of the above.

Diagnosing Multiple Allergies is a Challenge :

"We evaluate all parts of the problems." Bassett says . "We do a food elimination test if we need to . If it's skin allergy , we look at that  [by] doing allergy patch tests."   He also conducts a  challenge test, which means exposing you , by food or inhalation , to the Suspected allergen at the doctors' office.

Drugs for Multiple Allergies :

What Bassett says he tries to do for people with multiple allergies is give them the right drug at the right time  and at the lowest dosage possile . Once your doctor has pinpointed the substances causing your multiple , treatments can include ;

Antihistamines : Which are available  in both sort-acting and longer-acting versions.

Nasal sprays :Including corticosteriods such as fluticasone  (Flonase) and mometasone furoate (Nasonex), antihistamines such as azelastine nasal (Astelin) or cromolyn nasel (NasalCrom).

Decongestants : Which can relieve your stuffy nose . Nasal spray decongestants can become addictive , though, so a pill form might be a better option, Bassett says.

Leukotriene inhibitors : Such as montelekast (Singulair) , which actually block the substances that trigger allergies . Bassett says this drug can damp down certain symptoms , but it's mainly indicated for seasonal allergies and sinus problems.

Immunotherapy : Which might be the answer if nothing else works.

Most people who get allegry shots for two or four years can discontinue them after a period of maintenance  is achieved , if you do the regimen properly , you get long term benifits , Bassett says . "It's the closest thing to a cure we have."

Treatment fo Multiple Allergies : Take a Holiday

After you've been on a medication for a period of time and seem to be  sympton-free , Bassett prescribes a drug holiday.

"We'll cut back to see if there's a recurrence of symptoms," he says  . "It makes sense to reduce the medications once in a while because a person with multiple allergies is a moving target."

If symptoms don't return after a drug holiday , you may become free of multiple allergies.

Multiple Allergies : Other Strateges for  Coping

Modify your routine:Stay away from your allergy triggers , as best as you can. If you know what triggers your allergy symptoms , then do what you you need to do to avoid those allergens.

Clean up the air : Consider purchasing an air purifier to rid  indoor air  of potential allergens . Also , if you suffer from seasonal allergies , keep the windows closed and the air conditioning running to minimize the amount  of allergen that enters your home.

Use the Internet :If you have food allergies , the internet can be a great  source of information . You can find recipes that cater to your particular food allergy as well as lists of great food substitutes and instructions for substitutions in recipes .

But regardless of why they vary , allergies are no fun . If you have multiple allergies , make sure you keep regular appointments with your allergist.