Day 1 of Detox Drink

I did notice an increase in my water intake which is highly beneficial, especially because I am breastfeeding. About half way through the day, I noticed a moderate headache which is not usual for me. I could not find any resources which indicated any negative side effects associated with drinking the detox drink-so onto day two.

Lemon Cucumber Detox Water

As I was searching Pinterest, I noticed multiple pins for detox water. So, I decided to give one a try...

This recipe called for:
2 quarts water
1/2 a cucumber
3 lemons. 
Once all the ingredients are combined in a pitcher or any container, then place in fridge for at least eight hours. I began drinking the water last night and will continue for five days-one pitcher daily. I was interested to know what the benefits are of drinking this water-besides the taste. (I am an act now ask questions later type of gal)

What I found: 
Cucumbers: help prevent water retention, due to anti-inflammatory qualities, contains nutrients such as vitamin A, iron, calcium, vitamin K and potassium and can be highly beneficial for your skin. More information about the benefits of cucumber in water can be found at: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/06/17/cucumber-water_n_3415738.html
Lemon: great source of vitamin C, assist in balancing pH levels, aids in weight loss, and assist in digestion. More information can be found at: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-8354/5-amazing-benefits-of-drinking-lemon-water.html
Water: water is just plain good for you; the flavor helps me drink more of it and offers a different option. 

I will keep you posted on any changes throughout the week. Let me know any experiences you have had with detox drinks, flavored water or recommendations. 

Insurance 2014

I would assume I am just as confused as most individuals about the insurance changes which are quickly approaching. Last week, my husbands work sent home a helpful question and answer sheet, but I am still confused. I found a very helpful website which is www.healthcare.gov. It is important for individuals and family to be aware of the upcoming changes-how they will benefit or hurt your current coverage. There may also be better option available to you through this website, as well. Whether we agree with the changes or not they are coming and required by 2014, so be prepared. Check it out and let me know what you think.

F.Y.I.

 

Just to let everyone know we will be adding post about cigars. My husband is a regular cigar connoisseur; so he will be writing post about different cigars and places to buy cigars in Arizona.

Pizza Heaven Bistro

Last weekend with our Groupon we tried Pizza Heaven Bistro. It is located at 5150 N 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85014. Let me begin with our service it was amazing; we ate in, but they also do pickup and delivery.

We started out with an appetizer- Heaven's Mediterranean Medley artichoke hearts, mushrooms, roasted peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives in a garlic sauce topped with feta cheese; served with garlic bread. This was a fantastic beginning.

Next we tried - Insalata Caprese a Classic Italian with fresh buffalo mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, fresh garlic, and basil, with balsamic vinaigrette. I am a huge fan of Caprese salads and this one was amazing; I especially enjoyed the bread which was included.

We then tried their pizza, of course. We had the Pizza Bianca which is topped with extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, fresh basil, Italian herbs, parmesan, romano, mozzarella & ricotta by request for additional charge. No “red” sauce. This pizza was very good, definitely tasty enough to eat the crust, as well. They also serve traditional pizza with red sauce.

 

And we ended dinner with an amazing slice of cheesecake, which is made in house. This cheesecake was light and fluffy, which is just the way I like it.

Rating: 5 out of 5
We would go to Pizza Heaven Bistro again!

Groupon

 

Last weekend, my husband, Elizabeth and I decided to try groupon for the first time. It was very easy; all you have to do is sign up for their program and then you are able purchase any of the deals. We found a great deal for Pizza Heaven Bistro. The groupon was $20 for $40 at Pizza Heaven Bistro. We were able to use the groupon through our iPhone immediately, which made it very easy.

The Parlor

The entry - a great patio even in the middle of June!

Recently, we tried The Parlor located at 1916 E. Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85016. My sister celebrated her 14th Birthday here and so we joined. The restaurant is difficult to locate, due to the sign being covered by a tree, but definitely worth the hunt. The environment is very cozy and calming. We tried multiple items from the menu; first we started with the Caponata Bruschetta, which is sweet and sour eggplant, currants, roasted red peppers, pine nuts, and herbed ricotta. This appetizer was delicious, but only included three slices. For the next course we ordered, the Mozzarella Corrozza, which is Crispy House Made Mozzarella, Chicory, Radicchio, Mixed Greens, Prosciutto and Parmigiano Vinaigrette (as pictured). 

Mozzarella Corrozza

This salad was amazing, especially the presentation. I would order this as a main entree. For the main course, we tried their pizza, since that is what they are known for. We had the  Calabrian, a pizza topped with alabrese, Salumi, Burrata, and Watercress. The quality of the pizza was high, but the topping combination was not my favorite. We also tried their homemade s'mores desert; this was the only part of the meal which failed to meet my expectations. I make a s'mores cake which is divine- the recipe is not mine, but can be found at  http://witandwhistle.com/2012/05/14/smore-bars/. Our service was wonderful, although the wait time was a bit long. The pricing for the items was fair; our meal was about $45.00 before tip.  

*Rating a three out of five, but would return.