Neck Love + Nutrition: Where to Start?

{Neck Love}

I finally got in the sterling silver circles I wanted for my delicate, everyday necklaces. Take a look at Cookie+Curly's site and let me know what you think. Any color/stone requests?

Aquamarine in Sterling Silver Circle Necklace

Moonstone in Sterling Silver Circle Necklace

I'll be adding some earrings and more necklaces over the next couple of days/weeks but would love to hear if you're wanting something in particular. And, of course, any feedback.

{Where to Start}

I recently got an email from someone asking where to start with her children's nutrition. She has a 2-year old, a 4-year old, and one due TODAY! Before she introduces another baby to the family, at which point she feels she surely won't have the energy for optimizing her other children's nutrition for a while, she wanted a place to start.

My opinion? Limit processed sugars. That is, try to omit it.

What does that mean?

* Read labels!

* Don't eat anything with any of these words as the first 3 ingredients {or at all}: "sugar", "brown rice syrup", "agave nectar", "high-fructose corn syrup" {we know that one already}, "raw sugar", "maple syrup", more listed here. {Other rules for Sports Nutrition.}

* Start by looking at what your child {or you!} eat most regularly and adjust eating habits there. "Energy bars" and snack foods are big sugar-sources for many. And, yup... Desserts.

* Try the "health foods" section of your grocery store or try a new store altogether. But still ready labels as "sugar" can look really fancy and harmless on some "organic", "natural" foods. 

* You'll be surprised at all the yummy alternatives out there!

* Talk to your kids {or remind yourself - every day} about the importance of daily food choices. Give them options. PRAISE good food choices.

* One poor food choice can have a trickle-down effect and sabotage your day. Be a conscious eater.

* If omitting is too hard, aim for 3 days a week with a goal of every day. Add a day every week or two.

Does anyone have any personal suggestions for people with this struggle?