lola.love+live.life: October 2012

Oh, Sandy!! Leave it to women to pack a whopper! Batten down your hatches and fill up your bath tubs. Hurricane Sandy's paying the East Cost a BIG visit! I've braved the weather outside, long lines, and bought 'essentials' to sustain me, if the power goes out. My friends kid that I'm always prepared (thank you, Brownies) in the event of a catastrophe, but I have to. As a single woman, I have to rely on Me, Myself, and I.

In honor of Sandy's visit, I've complied the "The Single Girl's Guide to Surviving Sandy".

1. Be a Hoarder

On any normal day, I’d never tell you to hoard (unless you're applying for a spot on AMC's show), but under these circumstances, it makes sense to stock up on food and supplies. Non-perishables like canned soup are preferable for obvious reasons– I recommend the ones with the pull-tab tops in the unlikely, but still horribly frustrating event that something happens to your can opener.

2. Make sure to stock up on batteries!

Batteries are the most essential items to stock on. Besides the obvious need to see if your power goes out, they can do a lot to preserve your sanity. Imagine no TV or internet access, how's a girl to stay entertained? Be creative, think of the multiple ways batteries are a girl's best friend.

You’ll need several light sources, including flashlights, headlamps, and lanterns. Store extra batteries for anything that is battery-powered. Invest in a good quality emergency radio that is battery powered. If it comes with a solar charger, that’s even better.

One of the best inventions EVER!!!

3. Charge EVERYTHING!

Self explanatory. If you find yourself getting nervous, create a smooth jazz or relaxing playlist on your mp3 player to help calm your nerves. This will also keep those who haven't picked up a book in years sane!

4. Take a shower at 6:30 pm (before the power goes out)

Ladies, just because a hurricane's coming through does not mean you should neglect what's really important--Personal Hygiene. For those dating, you never know when you might get a 'visitor' to keep you safe when the eye of the storm hits. Always be prepared.

5. Stock up on water and fill your pots, bathtub and buckets with water.

Another important essential. Ladies, I know we are often watching our weight, however 'weight loss by dehydration' is not a smart fad you want to embark on. We need to stay hydrated for several reasons:

Your body needs water to keep your organs functioning properly. Plus, drinking water helps flush out the toxins in your system, hence drinking more water = frequent visits to the bathroom.
A well hydrated person often has clear healthy skin.
Your body needs enough water to regulate your body temperature. This will be key if your power goes out.
Water keeps your body from dehydrating after Lolatini's, Martini's, and the other hurricane alcohol concoctions of your choice. You won't wake up with hangovers.

5. Catch up on your reading or those books collecting dust in your library

6. Keep calm and have a glass of wine!

At the end of the day, stress, and panic get you nowhere. You might as well make the most of the situation. Stay indoors, stay safe. Enjoy your time off, grab a book, a throw or blanket, relax on the sofa and a have glass of wine. love+live.life!

What's loVe got to do with it by Larysa Luciw

From the title, I can guess that you are already humming Tina Turner's classic tune. I'm not referring to eros type of love linked to a sensual desire when I ask, "What's love got to do with It?" This type of L.O.V.E is the place, where you intentionally Listen, Observe, Value, and Embrace your life. This sort of love takes authentic living to a higher level of radical acceptance without judgement.