Ah, the holidays. The merriment of the season is tied to the mayhem of buying presents for everyone on your list, shipping packages to far-flung relatives, writing Christmas cards, baking cookies, buying new high heels for the office party, booking plane tickets, traveling to see loved ones (or welcoming them to your home), and worrying about forgetting something crucial when you stop to catch your breath.

Holiday craziness is a great reason to skip workouts. This year, to make sure I get in regular exercise, I've lined up some workout buddies who don't want to hear any excuses.

Are you having one of those months - or years - when you just can't wake up? You're sleeping eight hours and eating right, but still can't shake that groggy feeling?

Need an allergen-free savory snack mix for a school party, picnic, or after-school snack? Try making this one with the kids for a crunchy mix the whole family will love to munch on. It's quick, easy, and fun -- and it's free of all top 8 food allergens, and gluten-free, making it a great safe choice. It's also loaded with fiber and protein, so feel no guilt when you discover it's also addictive!

What's going on with coffee? For the past year there have been numerous reports on both the negative and positive effects of java. The information has been so confusing that it's virtually impossible to decide whether or not it's detrimental to include a cup (or two) in your morning routine. While there are legitimate coffee alternatives — like tea and yerba mate — it's still important to understand what exactly that grande latte's doing to your body.