Top Comments: Trader Joe's v. Sprouts

This week, Redondo Beach Patch commenters sounded off on a variety of topics ranging from healthy-food stores to family vacation destinations. Here's a sample; feel free to join in the discussions!

It's Trader Joe's vs. Whole Foods vs. Sprouts

After Michelle Veale Borden weighed in on , several commenters offered their opinions:

"I love too, but it's worth mentioning for the non-carnivores that their meat-alternative selection is severely lacking, whereas carries an overwhelming assortment across many brands. And as an added bonus, their soy-free cheese-alternative selection is also impressive (I hate soy). Someday I should probably investigate what has to offer in this area." —Sam

"Kids definitely change your shopping priorities! Before I had a baby I never went to Whole foods and I rarely read labels. I agree TJ's is the best value and my first choice too for hormone free, organic staples (plus wine and snacks). The quality of their produce has also really improved over the last year or two." —Kristen

Where Are You Going for Summer Vacation?

This week's Mom Talk question asked people where they would . Though there wasn't a lot of participation, one comment had lots of suggestions:

"What a great topic! My 3 kids (2 boys ages 12 & 10 and 1 girl ages 7) have been going to Reno, NV for the past 4 years to visit my sister & her family (she has 2 daughters the same ages)! We spend the 1st half of the summer in L.A. where I live going to Hermosa Beach, movies, bowling, Soak City, Wild Rivers..even Palm Springs! We also have lots of playdates. The 2nd half is then spent in Reno which turns out to be pretty family friendly! We usually make plans to go to Lake Tahoe to camp or picnic for a day because it is only a 45 min. drive, hike, go to the local waterpark and river tube down Truckee River, attend festivals (ongoing), movies, even Circus Circus if we have $ to splurge! And there is Hot August Nights where classic vehicles are shown off and driven in parades it seems every night! Some throw candy for the kids! Some years I came home right before school started in Sept!"—Janice Wells

Reader Shares Favorite Stress-Relief Treatment

In this , Nancy Hovde explained how simple treatments or exercises—such as a massage, yoga or even a walk in the park—can be beneficial when it comes to relieving stress. One commenter let us know her secret:

"When I am looking for the 'cure all' treatment I make an appt with Kim at in the Riviera Village. Her facial treatment is total bliss and I leave feeling as though I went to a serene place exiting as though I had a facial and a full body massage...it is just that good. So you pay for the facial but leave feeling as though your entire body was given special treatment." —aka6161