Today’s post is a health public service announcement:

Seasonal flu will soon be arriving in our community. Even if you have been vaccinated against the H1N1 virus you need to protect yourself against seasonal influenza.

If you have not been vaccinated against seasonal influenza you still have time, before the holiday travelling and festivities begin, to take the single most effective step to avoid getting the flu.

Seasonal flu vaccinations (mist and shots) are available at Polk County Health Department, 1907 Carpenter Avenue (Monday-Friday, 9-4). A $15 donation is suggested. Medicaid, Medicare Part B, Wellmark and Humana will pay for the cost in full. Bring your insurance, Medicare or Medicaid card.

Posted in Community Service, Current Students, Des Moines Events, DMU Events, Life in Des Moines, Student Life | 1 Comment

So today I thought I’d share some fun public health videos as a (somewhat gross) reminder to keep your germs to yourself… (if you’re reading this post on email, click here to our site to see these videos!)

Here’s a parody-d song about having the flu:

Posted in Life in Des Moines, Prospective Students, Public Health, Student Life | 3 Comments

Wow, that is a great looking rolling pin. "Guinea pigs not included.

I don’t know about you, but around this season with sales and massive advertising, I can’t help but want to shop for myself. I was at the Goodwill store yesterday to drop off some donations (I’ve finally said good-bye to the deep fryer) and thought it would be fun to browse through the kitchen stuff. I wasn’t looking for anything in particular considering all the de-cluttering I’ve been trying to do this year. But there it was, staring straight at me, a wooden rolling pin in near perfect condition priced at $0.99. Tell me that isn’t a bargain!

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I like this series called “fresh view” by local photographers of what they like in central Iowa. Check out Andrea’s awesome work! Please share your favorite photos of beloved Des Moines haunts here or on DMU’s Facebook page!

Did you see the new winter photos of campus I posted on our Facebook page? This photo is one of my favorites from the new series of shots!

Posted in Current Students, Des Moines Events, DMU News, Life in Des Moines, New Students, Student Life | 1 Comment

My new favorite source for healthy recipes is Cooking Light. This Zesty Broccoli Casserole is going on my list of dishes for Christmas dinner. Even if you’re not a big fan of broccoli, who can resist a cheesy casserole?

I’ve also added this recipe for Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies to my must-try list.

What’s your favorite holiday baking recipe?

Posted in Healthy Cooking, Uncategorized | 7 Comments

Ok, maybe not so much but my prayers have been answered and I am Kindle-ing! Best gift ever!

Any recommendations on books I should read? I like humor, nonfiction and medically-related stories like Oliver Sacks stuff. On my queue is David Sedaris “Me Talk Pretty.” I’m also trying to catch up on oldies but goodies like “Da Vinci Code” and currently I’m reading “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time” by Mark Haddon.

Such a perfect day to curl up in a blanket and read on my Kindle. Take advantage of the snow day and stay safe.

Posted in Current Students, Life in Des Moines, Student Bloggers, Student Life | 2 Comments