Eating grass and staying healthy

If you have been in 101 Market lately chances are you have noticed the patches of wheatgrass growing in various pots around the store. The item has been flying off our shelves just in time to decorate for Easter. But this adorable plant is more than just a place to store Easter eggs; it is an extremely healthy addition to anyone’s diet. One interesting fact I read was that 15 pounds of wheatgrass contains the same amount of nutrients as 150 pounds of fruits and vegetables! Wow, that's impressive.

The thought of consuming grass is probably grossing most of you out right now, but to be honest I’ve tried it and it isn’t that bad. I brought a small patch home the other night and my mom and I decided to give this health craze a try. First, we had to liquefy the grass; humans cannot digest the nutrients if it is left in the solid form. We didn’t have a juicer so we improvised; we blended it like crazy with a bit of water. Once it was in liquid form, we strained it and blended it again with grape juice and real fruit – to take the edge of the grass taste. I’ll be frank, the color is not appetizing. However, if you can get past that it tastes okay. It’s not something I now crave, but for how healthy it is I think I can put up with the grass taste.

By Amy Learn

First season flowers

Recently, many people have been calling in wondering when we will begin getting flowers. Well, the day has come; 101 Market will be receiving our first flowers of the season on March 26. Pansy pots will paint the greenhouse with their colorful petals and their spring essence. Hopefully, the presesnce of these annual beauties will mark the beginning of the sunny seasons. I know I’m not alone when I say, it’s time for the sun to break from the clouds and shed some warm rays across the frozen land we all call home. The first flowers are almost here, and hopefully the 70 degree days will follow shortly after.

By Amy Learn

The childish joy of Easter

It is official, Lent has begun and Easter is just around the corner. I can remember as a child Easter was such a compelling holiday, the imagination and excitement was like a second Christmas. Looking back on Easter morning, I would wake up surrounded by chocolate and candy eggs. Next, I would search for my hidden basket of candy and treasures. Reminiscing reminds me of how something so simple can be so fun. But just like all childish things, my Easter excitement somehow got away from me, and as I grew up, the simple youthful joy dwindled away.

As a new comer to the 101 Market staff, I am brought back to the joys of childhood as I walk through the store and see all of the wonderful brightly colored decorations, custom painted Austrian eggs, and stuffed bunnies and chickens.

I think maybe it’s not too late for us adults; maybe we still can let our inner child out during this religious holiday and go crazy with decoration, candies and toys. If you don’t want to spurge on yourself, splurge on others. Adults with children spoil them a bit and go Easter nuts, for in the end they will appreciate the memories. And as for the adults such as myself with no children, send a basket to a friend or family member, and remind them of the childish joy of receiving an Easter gift.

By Amy Learn

Veggies, Veggies, Anyone?

I was called the other day by the Star News Newspaper, they were looking for trends in the "Going Green" and gardening. This left me thinking......I think I may try a vegetable garden this year. We have books and a new gardening stick, that is supposed to make gardening a snap. All the top soil and fertilizer I could ask for right at my finger tips..... So this will be the year!! I am known to have a black thumb so this should be interesting. Lucky for me I spend day in and day out with fantastic gardening minds out in the greenhouse. Maybe they can help me from killing everything. I will let you know how my garden fares, let me know how yours is going and if you have any tips for me. Lets eat better together.
Lesa

Color, color, color

During the time of year when the snow begins to disappear, walking through 101 Market the one thing everyone is sure to notice is all the color. The new items painted with bright greens, yellows, pinks and blues, set the mood for the playful spring to come. Bee detailed glassware, fluffy bunny figurines and glittery butterflies ready to fly are proof of the very life spring will possess. While shopping the colorful world, one might forget we are still buried in snow. But don’t fret; just bring the season to your home and splash some color on the winter blues.

By Amy Learn

Keeping in good spirits

A person cannot go a day without hearing news about the horrible economy, which makes it hard to see any light at the end of the tunnel. Surrounding yourself with positivity just might be the key to keeping up good spirits in such hardship times.

Words we read impact on how we live our lives, what we expect from the day, and how we view ourselves and others. Phrases motive us and sayings captivate us. Become your own philosopher, get insightful and spread encouraging words all around you.

Be creative; think beyond the yellow sticky note pad and white erase boards. Fill your home with wall art containing quotes from well-known people like Opera, Marilyn Monroe and Kathryn Hepburn; pictures of your family and friends in frames painted with phrases of togetherness; metal signs of single words like bless and laugh. Go beyond and accessorize your yard with decorative rocks engraved with inspirational messages and silly expressions. Customize your car with Driving Reflections, a collection of inspiring words in an array of categories for those on the go.

101 Market is filled with items to keep your spirits high and those of the ones you love. With a vast variety of pieces, ranging in ever color, price and size, there is something for everyone.

By Amy Learn

Getting Married?

When you pop the question, or answer that big question what do you do next? Are you looking for that faerie tale wedding or are you going away to get married? What is the most important to you? The dress, food, venue, or Flowers?
The trend seems to be nice elegant weddings for a smaller guest list. This way the Bride and Groom have the wedding they want in their budget. Let us know how you see your special day.