How are those New Year’s resolutions holding up the as middle of January arrives? Or perhaps you’re still looking for a resolution? In a comment to this blog, Jami sets out her plan for 2008: She’s going to take the time to both unplug and unwind. She resolves “Every time I use some electronic device, I will unplug it after I use it—the TV, hair dryer, microwave, lamps, etc… Those 2 seconds of extra time means a better environment and a lower bill. On that same note, I’m going to unplug from being over busy. When I’m bored or have free time, instead of wasting my energy and the environment’s to watch TV or get in the car to go shopping, I’m going to go on a walk, spend time with my family, do something creative, and exercise my brain—instead of my wallet.” This sounds like some good advice we could all start practicing.

According to the US Department of Energy, “75% of the energy used to power home electronics is consumed while the products are turned off.” And you may save $10 a month on your electricity bill by unplugging appliances not in use. Need any more reasons to get started?

 Whole Creamery Blue Cheese [7:24m]: Play Now | Download (204)

Get the recipe now!

Secret Ingredients: Whole Creamery Blue Cheese
Guest Chef: Scott Herbert, Assistant Store Team Leader, Arlington TX (Parkway)

Dress up your chicken breast with this scrumptious combination of ingredients, and learn the store behind our Whole Creamery Blue Cheese!

Tune in for some tips on how to spend more time with your family this year.

 Re-Embrace the Family Dinner Table [5:00m]: Play Now | Download (91)

 Butternut Squash Soup [9:57m]: Play Now | Download (501)

Get the recipe now!

Secret Ingredient: 365 Organic Low Sodium Chicken Broth
Guest Chef: Jamie Powell, Whole Foods Market’s Culinary Center Director, Lamar

Delicious and bursting with flavor! Our 365 Organic Low Sodium Chicken Broth adds a undeniable richness. Be sure to add your favorite toppings like toasted walnuts, roasted apples, or blue cheese crumbles.

Get the solid basics for taking control of your weight, plus some lesser-known facts and tips, such as new ways to jumpstart your weight control plan. Stop spinning your wheels on the diet cycle! Discover how supporting two natural body systems will help you manage your weight. Malia Curran, MS, MPH is a nutrition consultant and speaker, and sees clients in the Boston region.

 The Skinny on Weight Loss [6:30m]: Play Now | Download (411)

With the ringing in of the New Year, why not make one of your resolutions for 2008 a green one?

When you head to the checkout with your purchases at the grocery store or any store, bring your own reusable bags. Keep a stash in your car or a small foldable one in your purse, and you’ll be ready to answer “No, thanks,” to “Do you need a bag?” Challenge everyone in your family to remember to take reusable bags whenever you head out for a shopping trip. This simple step to preserve natural resources really adds up when you think of all the plastic bags you might use in a year.

Read about the decision our two Austin stores recently made to end the use of plastic bags at the checkout, one more step on the ongoing journey toward a greener operation.

Making the world a better place is a top resolution for many folks in 2008. In this episode, we offer hints for keeping this resolution.

 Resolutions [5:00m]: Play Now | Download (115)