Get outside, pack a picnic, play on a playground, compete in a sport and enjoy the sunshine! The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is celebrating National Park and Recreation Month this month – and they want all Americans to join in.

Since 1985, America has celebrated July as the nation’s official Park and Recreation Month. Each July, recreation facilities and parks across the country kick-off summer programs, promote outdoor physical activities, and pull together community volunteers to make their outdoor space a better place for all. Due to the recession this year, many national parks are even offering free admission throughout the summer.

How many infomercial products and gimmick diet plans do we have to buy before we learn there is no miracle to fighting the battle of the bulge? Plain and simple, diet and exercise are the only ways to long lasting, life changing weight-loss results.

Sure, it is possible to lose 30 lbs in about a month eating only manufactured foods that come out of a vacuum packed container, but what happens when you return to REAL LIFE?  You will, without a doubt, gain the weight back.

The hundred is a classic Pilates mat exercise. The hundred is often used as a dynamic warm-up for the abdominals and lungs and it builds strength, stamina and coordination. It requires that you coordinate your breath with the movement. It is challenging, but the hundred is an easy exercise to modify (make harder or easier).

To see a demonstration of the hundred click here.

Midnight Madness is a fun night of cycling, contests, prizes, and entertainment to support community youth programs. The 36th annual event will be held on Saturday August 15th, 2009. The cycling route is a 20-mile, primarily flat loop course along some of San Diego’s most beautiful waterfront and historic areas. For information or to register for the ride click here.

With a few simple steps you can create a lush oasis in your yard without excessive water or harsh chemicals. Here’s how.

• Layer with compost.  It is free of chemicals and has all the nutrients your plants need.
• Spread mulch.  Made of ground wood or leaves, mulch protects soil from weeds and locks in moisture.  After adding compost spread a thin layer of mulch on top.
• Buy local plants.  Plants native to your area will thrive without extra care or watering.
• Blast bugs with water.  Rid your garden of pests with a squirt of water.  You can make your own spray by adding a few drops of castile soap to a quart of water in your spray bottle.

A fully functioning immune system helps to keep your children healthy.  Follow these five steps and help your kids stay healthy year-round.

Spice of Life is a team of very dedicated, talented professionals who consistently and cooperatively work together to create successful events that exude the heart and passion that is discovered in its production. Spice of Life’s team is devoted to touching people’s lives-- one event at a time.