August is Foot Health Month and that means it's time to kick off your week with a little toe pampering. After all, there's nothing better than rewarding tired feet with a relaxing, tension-relieving pedicure. But what makes a pedi worth your penny?



Podiatrists agree that safety is paramount. Before you hop in the chair, ask the pedicurist a few quick questions. Is the pedicurist licensed? Are the instruments being used disposable? If not, make sure the tools are being properly disinfected. The best nail salons clean their instruments in a sterilization machine known as an autoclave. Soaking the tools in a disinfectant solution is a more common practice and works fine as long as the solution is changed frequently. Also make sure the footbath is cleaned after every customer.

A favorite drink of Ernest Hemingway, the mojito has been making people happy for centuries. A mixture of light rum, sugar, lime juice, mint and sparkling water, the mojito can be traced back to a similar Cuban cocktail known as 'El Draque,' named in honor of Sir Francis Drake in the mid 1600s.

Fast forward to the 19th century when African slaves working in the Cuban sugar cane fields further refined the mojito when they discovered Guarapo, the juice of raw sugar cane. The sweetness of the nectar complemented the rum, tangy citrus and cool mint, creating the perfect combination of flavors.

Ask any nutritionist about grocery shopping and they'll tell you one thing: stick to the outside aisles of the store. That's where you'll find the freshest foods, including fruits, veggies, fish and meat, that fuel your body with nutrients you need.



During the summer months, shopping at local farmer's markets can be a fun alternative to hitting the grocery store. As the old saying goes, variety is the spice of life, and variety is exactly what you'll find. Not only is the array of local and organic produce impressive to say the least, but the best farmer's markets also showcase everything from homemade breads, pies and preserves to farm-raised beef, artisan cheese, spices and fresh herbs.

Temperatures are rising to a sizzle as this summer sets the stage for a hot romance. If you're looking for summer date ideas, look no further. These summertime activities should break the ice and let you and your date get to know each other.