The weather in Cape Breton has been sunny and warm, making it the perfect backdrop for spending time outside and for kicking up your culinary pursuits.

With the endless supply of fresh produce in stores, now’s your time to get cooking!

Here are some of the recipes I’ve bookmarked to make over the Spring. (Caution: the recipes may make you drool.)

Restaurant Style Salsa

(Click here for recipe)

Crispy Salmon BLT Sliders with Chipotle Mayo

(Recipe)

4-Step Burrito Bowl

(Recipe)

Nutella Fudge Pops

(Recipe)

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

(Recipe)

Blended Iced Chai Latte

(Recipe)

What are your favourite spring recipes?

Bon appetite!

Congratulations are in order for all of the CBU grads of 2012!

My cousin who is also graduating said it best, “Through a series of miracles, family and friend’s support, and a tiny bit of work – I’m graduating!”

As an upcoming graduate myself, I must admit that his words aptly summarize my own experiences well. (Alas, earning a university degree is more than a tiny bit of work!) However, without the immense support of family, friends, and university staff I doubt any graduates of 2012 would be where we are today: with a bachelor’s degree and with the world at our feet.

The three of four years at CBU flies by, as any graduate will attest to. There are highs and lows, but in the end, they are unforgettable years that cement who we are.

So, to all CBU grads I wish you all the best and congratulations!

Now go show the world what you’re made of

May is a happy month. Spring is in full swing and summer is on the horizon. The days are longer and barbeques are pulled out, flowers are blooming, and people’s smiles grow just a little bit wider with the sunny weather.

Planning your summer has begun, and no doubt you want to spend it outside: swimming, running, hiking… the list goes on. Good news for those of you who do, because it’s predicted Cape Breton will have a hot summer. I say: bring it on!

But, don’t get too far ahead of yourself just yet. Make your May marvellous with the following steps:

Indulge in seasonal fruits and veggies

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Go crazy for spring fruits and veggies by adding them into your diet this May. Make fresh strawberry rhubarb pie or add grilled asparagus and artichoke to your barbequed meal. Delicious and nutritious.

Breathe life into your workout regime

Beach-bods aren’t made on the couch. Try something new in May, like perhaps attending a new fitness class (spinning, yoga, zumba). Finding something you enjoy will make you want to pursue your fitness goals all summer long.

Go somewhere new

As they say, “Adventure is out there.” So what are you waiting for? This May go somewhere new. Maybe it’ll be to Hong Kong or to Inverness. Enjoy it, near or far.

Eat out

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Head to a patio to have a meal with friends, or pack a picnic and eat out! Everything tastes better outside, after all.

Minimize your stuff

Over the school year we accumulate a lot of stuff. Drop off used clothing, books, and footwear at a local charity. Recycle notebooks from the semester. “Spring Cleaning” feels great.

Relax

All year long we are constantly racing deadlines. Now that the bulk of classes are over, relax! Sit outside and let your mind wander, plug in your iPod and chill, or read. Relaxing is good for you, so don’t forget to “schedule” it in this month.

Those are some of the ways I’m making May marvellous. How about you?

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With the school year largely over, we can now read for enjoyment.

If you’re like me, at this time of the year you have quite a decent “To-Read” list forming. I rarely have time to read books that aren’t school related during the year, so, I go in overdrive all summer long to catch up.

Typically, I try to read books that have been suggested to me by friends and professors… or books surrounded with hype. (Hunger Games, anyone?) Nonetheless, that’s where my process of book selection ends. I don’t do too much research online – nor will I “judge a book by its cover” while perusing the library.

For these reasons, I was happily surprised to find out about Good Reads: a website dedicated to finding your next favourite book.

Good Reads is more than just a place to review and choose books. You can also find out what your friends are reading, making it the social-media must-have account for any true bookworm.

When you make your account, you’re asked what kind of books you’re interested in. From there, you are asked to rate the books you’ve read in several of the categories you’re interested in. After that? Good Reads supplies you with several book recommendations in each category, and links you to a summary and to reviews on any given book.

The process is simple, although, time consuming.

Good Reads has many advantages, but ultimately, I’m sceptical of its usefulness. Readers have such different tastes, so how are we supposed to trust their reviews? (Especially when books aren’t cheap.)

I am going to give Good Reads a chance, probably starting out with recommendations that I can take out at the library before committing to purchasing them at a bookstore. From there… who knows?

Simultaneously, I’ll work through my “To-Read” list and see which way works better for me.

How do you choose what to read? And, do you trust book reviews, or do you take them with a grain of salt?

Happy reading

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Relationships are a huge part of the university experience. You develop new friendships, and perhaps, you may find that special someone.

There are highs and lows with every relationship; however, if you and your partner live in different cities or countries, things can become increasingly challenging.

Many couples that meet in university from out-of-town experience this situation and often are unsure of how to make it work. Nevertheless, you don’t have to ditch your darling because of a few hundred (or thousand) kilometres!

Here are some of my tips to help you keep the love alive, long-distance.

1. Keep in touch. Designate time everyday to keep in touch with your loved one. Skype will become your relationship lifeline! Talking on the phone or text messaging are also good ways to connect.
2. Be patient. Love stories teach us to throw everything away for that special someone – but it doesn’t have to be that way. Be patient that your relationship is strong enough to withstand the distance. When the time is right, things will fall into place.
3. Remain optimistic. Positive thinking will help you deal with missing your partner, and will make the relationship stronger too. Look forward to your next visit with one and other, and dream of the fun times ahead together.
4. Be trusting. In order for the relationship to work, you and your loved one will need to trust each other, and your relationship. This will often make or break a long-distance relationship.
5. Find common ground. It won’t be easy to stay together if you and your second half are headed in two, completely different directions. Although opposites attract, it is vital to maintain some common ground. Is there a city to live in that works for you both, or even, when apart, is partying a good way to spend the time?
6. Hangout. Even though you may live on the other side of the world from your sweetheart, you can still hangout. Watch a movie together, enjoy a meal – there are tons of ways to virtually spend time together.
7. Visit. Long-distance love isn’t possible without seeing each other, even if visits are few and far between. Make time and save for visits: they are your reward for staying together!

Long-distance love isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely exciting. Apart from your loved one, you can maintain an independent lifestyle that allows you to pursue your dreams, and vice versa. As well, when you do finally see each other, you’ll remember why it’s all worth it.

Are you in a long-distance relationship? How do you make it work?

On April 22nd, Earth Day was celebrated.

The global movement is all about performing “acts of green” in order to protect and sustain our lovely planet.

If you’re a student, there are many ways to go-green that make a difference. For instance, using reusable bottles for water and coffee, or recycling dorm furniture by hosting a swap at the beginning or end of the year. I try to be as green as can be, and one of the ways I do that is by switching some of the products I use everyday over to their eco-friendly counterparts.

In the spirit of Earth Day, here are five switches you can make the next time you need to refresh your shower kit.

All products are available in Sydney and will not break the bank. Also – I’ve tried and loved them all. As a bonus, most of the companies only use natural ingredients… making them good for you and the world.

1. Kiss My Face Deodorant

Kiss My Face has been doing the green thing for over 30 years, giving them creditability as a legitimate, sustainable company. Kiss My Face uses sustainable plant based ingredients in their natural product line, and as a bonus, the company only uses recycled materials for their packaging.

Aside from all of that, Kiss My Face deodorant is good for you too. Regular deodorants have been linked to cancer as they contain cancer-causing ingredients (like metal) that get straight into your blood stream via your beautiful underarm lymph glands. Kiss My Face deodorant skips all of that crazy stuff and leaves you protected and smelling great.

Bonus:

-No animal testing or cruelty

2. Say Yes to Cucumbers Facial Towelettes

If you have a busy lifestyle (duh), these convenient face towelettes are for you! The delicious cucumber scent mixed with natural ingredients like aloe vera and green tea are super-refreshing after a long day or as a pick-me-up.

Yes To, the company behind the magic, is committed to delivering ecofriendly products with minimal packaging. These wipes are biodegradable as well, so toss them in your compost once you’re done.

Bonus:

-No animal testing or cruelty

-Yes To Seed Fund – a percentage of profits goes to garden grants for children, teaching them the value of nature and the importance of leading healthy lifestyles

3. Aveda Shampure

I’ve been in love with Aveda product since working at an Aveda salon and spa. My personal favorite shampoo and conditioner is from the Shampure line, for all hair types. It is also the most inexpensive of Aveda hair care.

Aveda uses plant based ingredients and has a larger than life reputation for being very sustainable worldwide. The companies mission is “to care for the world we live in, from the products we make to the ways in which we give back to society. At Aveda, we strive to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility – not just in the world of beauty, but around the world.”

Bonus:

- No animal testing or cruelty

- Environmental Sustainability Policy that governs the company

- Gives back through many campaigns worldwide

- Earth and Community Care yearly report (available online)

4. Burts Bees Body Wash

Burts Bees is most well known for their lip chap, but their body wash line is just as great.

The company maintains that it is committed to the customer and only offers 99% natural products are more (half of their products are 100% natural). All ingredients are transparent to customers too, so that costumers can remain educated and in control of what they put on their bodies.

Burts Bees uses recycled material for packaging that has the lowest impact on the environment.

Bonus:

-No animal testing or cruelty

- Greater Good Foundation – 10% profits go to “well being” partners

- Social and Environmental Reports (available online)

5. Toms of Maine Toothpaste

Brushing your teeth is something you have to do a few times a day, so why not help the environment and yourself by using Tom’s toothpaste?

The toothpaste is minty fresh and delicious, leaving your teeth feeling just-left-the-dentist clean. Plus, the ingredients are all natural (they even offer a link to the American Botanical Council so you can find up to date information on the ingredients they use).

Tom’s also uses minimal processing and packaging, while also setting new standards in sustainability. If you visit their website, you can find extensive information on what they do to remain ecofriendly worldwide. They are the real deal.

Bonus:

- No animal testing or cruelty

- 10% of profits go to nonprofit organizations that support the environment and education

- 5% paid volunteer hours for employees at the nonprofit organization of their choice

- “Making Waves” – protecting water worldwide

What are your favourite eco-friendly products?

Usually around this time of the year I pack my bags and head overseas for a few months of adventure. This year, I’m staying put and will have a Cape Breton summer!

The spring in Sydney has so far been beautiful. There have been countless days of “t-shirt” weather. I have loved waking up to the sunshine and planning my days to be spent outdoors strolling Wentworth Park, or walking my family’s puppy around Peterfield’s Park.

Clara-Belle, my family's adorable puppy!

Summer feels like it’s just around the corner. My exams are done, I have two spring distance courses to take to finish my degree, and I’ll be doing research for my professor again. This mix creates the perfect work-life balance. Relaxing summer: here I come!

The only things on my mind now are finding good books to read and buying a new bicycle.

What are your summer plans?

In the meantime, expect updates on my summer of fun here!

I am 3/4. That is, I have already written 3 of my exams.

My next and last exam isn’t until Saturday. So, what’s a girl to do until then?

a.) Study – Reasonable and very useful.

b.) Complete To-Do List – Practical and productive.

c.) Procrastinate – Blissfully irresponsible yet fun.

I’m guessing you already know the answer to that question… and I’m assuming I’m not the only Master Procrastinator around these parts!

Nevertheless, if you’re new to the whole “Oh my goodness, completing this task totally unrelated to schoolwork is so important right now” – then I have a list of some of my favourite ways to procrastinate!

Paint your nails

It would be an absolute travesty to write your exam with nails that are plain and uninspiring. Instead, head to your local Shoppers and buy a new Essie polish. Time: 1-2 hours.

Clean your closet

While cleaning your closet may seem urgent and bordering on being productive, let’s be honest, it remains a bigger mess after the fact. Don’t start. Time: 5 min – all day.

Plan an escape

You’ve been working really hard. You deserve a break as soon as exams are over. In fact, you should plan for it this instant. Go on Expedia and decide between Cuba, Mexico or Dominican Republic. Call some friends to see who can go with you. Browse beachwear online… etc. Time: 30 min – 2 hours.

Bake

Studying for exams would be way easier if you could only satisfy your lingering sweet tooth. Plus, making the Chocolate Lover’s Cupcakes recipe makes 12 cupcakes – you’re practically saving time! Dessert for days. (Or a day or two…) Time: 1 hour.

DIY

You’ve always wanted to be the crafty type, and this DIY jewellery organizer is screaming your name. Perhaps if you briefly take your mind off of school, you won’t fall asleep again reading over your notes, especially with an accomplished jewellery organizer staring back at you. Right? Time: 2-4 hours.

How do you procrastinate?

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Finally, the weekend is here! And it’s not just any weekend… it’s a long weekend. And it’s not just a long weekend… it’s Easter!

I’m not sure how many festive activities you’ll be partaking in over the next few days. As for me, I’ll be studying for my upcoming exams.

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But, here’s a plus: when we start exams on Tuesday, Easter chocolate and candy will be 50% off! That means buying bags of Mini Eggs, boxes of Hello Kitty themed chocolate bunnies, and a few sad little leftover Peeps.

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Writing an exam with Mini Eggs sprawled across your desk has many unknown benefits, like:

• Using your Mini Eggs to help with Math problems.
• Rewarding yourself with a Mini Egg for every multiple choice question completed.
• Giving yourself a sugar high to power through a long essay question.

Easter treats are yummy and helpful.

Have a wonderful weekend!

We’ve come a long way from chalkboards, pens and pencils. Walking around CBU, it’s not uncommon to see faces buried in laptops, cellphones, and tablets. This technology makes it increasingly easy to be a student: ask a question on Google, type your notes quickly in Word, and email outstanding assignments to your professor.

What are the next tech trends that greet students? Here’s a list of some of my favourite go-go-gadgets.

1. Pocket Projector

2. Jot Pro

If you’re a tech junkie, no doubt you’d love the digital pen: the Jot Pro. This stylus can be used on most touch screen surfaces and delivers all the precision of a pen – without one. It also has a magnetic body to stay put on the device you’re using. Get a few in different colours to ensure super-organized notes.

3. Solar Backpack

Going green is easy with the Solar Backpack. The backpack has a solar grid that can charge all of your handheld electronics. For 4 Watts of solar power (approximately 1 hour of sun) you get 3 hours of talk time. On top of that, the bag has a laptop sleeve, lots of storage and you can even remove the solar panel whenever you want to attach on other bags. It’s really the ideal backpack for university students on the go.

4. Mobile Document Scanner

Need the notes from last class? Now you can quickly scan them with the Doxie Go mobile scanner. The tiny gadget is cordless with a rechargeable battery. Scan anything (notes, business cards, photos) and either sync it over Wi-Fi to your mobile phone or laptop, or save it on the built in memory, with an SD card, or with a USB flash drive. Scanning one page takes about 8 seconds – easy peasey.

These gadgets definitely make being a student easier. My personal favourite is the solar backpack, although, I’m not sure how much good it would do during a Cape Breton winter.

Would you use any of these gadgets? And, how much is too-much technology?