Monday, September 19, 2011

Blackhawk Brothers' Night Out!

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Blackhawks' team captain Jonathan Toews (left) with new teammate and brother, David Toews (Photo via peacelovehawks.blogspot.com).

Believe it or not, I prefer not to write about misbehaving celebrities, whether they're acting up at nightclubs or leaving crappy tips in some of Chicago's top restaurants.

Instead, I'd prefer to write stories like this one:

Your New Favorite Day of the Week

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Photo via official "Meatless Monday" campaign.

I spent my recent birthday week at Expanding Light, a yoga and meditation retreat in the foothills of Northern California.

And while I went with the goal of a glam detox, I came away with valuable information that'll help me enjoy a healthier and happier lifestyle.

In addition to daily yoga and meditation classes, I indulged in the most delicious vegetarian cuisine I had ever tasted. Yes, indulged. The chefs there demonstrated that you don't have to limit yourself to salads and a bunch of veggies to get a good, satisfying vegetarian meal. They incorporated whole grains, nuts, beans and tofu for a number of impressive dishes.

And, to be frank, I'm not trying to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, but the program I endured had me researching the Meatless Monday campaign.

For at least once a week, diners are encouraged to cut out meat in order to improve their health as well as the environment. In particular, going "meatless" can reduce heart disease and carbon footprints as well as limit cancer risk and minimize water usage.

I don't know about you, but I will be visiting some unconventional restaurants to observe Meatless Monday from now on: