Good morning.  Just sharing some tidbits that have caught my eye in the newspaper over the past few days.  Firstly, good news for those in or thinking about joining the wonderful field of health and fitness.  Apparently, the US Department of Labor estimates that employment in this industry will increase faster than average until 2014.  Not only are aging Baby Boomers becoming more invested in their own health and fitness, but there is also an increase in membership of children and adolescents at health clubs and gyms.  According to a survey done by the IDEA Health and Association, fitness industry personnel, such as personal trainers and group fitness instructors, a high level of job satisfaction is reported.  I can attest to the truth in that statement!  30 years into this business and I still love what I do.   Honestly.

I found a blurb about a water bottle that does double-duty as a carrier for a key, money and/or gym membership card.  The Contigo Kangaroo is ideal for anyone who needs to carry their ID, a locker key, or a couple of bucks with them while working out.  It is stainless steal and is virtually (I always am a skeptic when I see that word) spill-proof.  Sounds like it would be great for the beach, too.  Though the downside is that it is "a bit wide and not terribly easy to carry."  For $12.99 I might have to try one.  Available from gocontigo.com.

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRiKeAvMmaNGyhd0rs6ar5xBegNpiszXd46jVhglq6QjQJBa6Sh

Did you know an onion a day will also help keep the doctor away.  (Yikes, it might keep EVERYONE away...)  Onions, rich in sulfur compounds, protect against tumor growth, especially in the stomach, lowering the risk for stomach cancer.  They also improve breathing, fight bacteria and improve cholesterol levels.  They thin and halt the growth of dangerous pathogens such as salmonella and E. coli.  In fact, in Georgia, where Vidalia onions are grown, the mortality rates from stomach cancer are about half the national average.  Onions are great for people with asthma, coughs, colds, or any other breathing problems.  They break down certain cancer-causing compounds, reduce the body's absorption of cholesterol, fight fungus and provide relief from gas and flatulence.  Rich in flavonoids, they also help guard against heart disease.  So get some onions in daily, just keep in mind the stronger the flavor, the better for you, so DO keep breath mints on hand!

Biggest Loser airs for just one hour tonight as the President makes his State of the Union address tonight at 9.  I love you Mr. President, but can't you possibly pick ANY other night that a Tuesday?

Get in your daily dose of peace, fitness and some onions!  I'll meet you back here, tomorrow.