Julia Bourque

Contributing Writer
Hiking in the Smoky Mountains - Robert Cleave
Hiking in the Smoky Mountains - Robert Cleave

Having a life-long love of nature, most of my writing is about the natural world and the life connected to it. I am a runner, biker, hiker and kayaker, so I also enjoy writing outdoor recreation articles and "how to's" on finding the right sporting equipment. I'm also a travel junkie and get a thrill out of finding great travel deals, whether I use them or not. I love cooking healthy and trying new recipes, and I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. I'm always up for a story that shares a great slice of life.

Latest Articles

The Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee
With programmable coffee pots and readily accessible coffee shops, being a coffee drinker has never been easier. But, is drinking coffee healthy?
Jun 24, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Identifying and Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses
Summer is here, and people are heading outdoors for all sorts of activities. Though the summer sun is fun, it can be a dangerous season for heat illnesses.
Jun 22, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Understanding Causes of Allergies And Natural Remedies For Them
Spring is in the air, literally. From pollen, seed fluff and mold, the season's literally floating in the air, and for some, it's a real allergic irritant.
Jun 13, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Managing Waste While Camping
When preparing for upcoming camping trips, it's important to know how to properly manage waste produced while camping. Sometimes, it's a matter of safety.
Apr 8, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Identifying, Preventing And Treating Poison Ivy
As the weather warms up, people are venturing outdoors. Though there are many wonderful plants to enjoy out there, there's one to be wary of: poison ivy.
Apr 7, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Spring Wildflowers
Snowmelt and the warm spring sun are the perfect recipe for emerging spring wildflowers. From March through May, Illinois' woodlands are full of color and fragrance.
Mar 28, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Spring Migratory Birds
With their bright plumage and melodic songs, migrating birds can be seen and heard throughout much of the country during the spring season.
Mar 25, 2010 - Julia Bourque
Visiting Ireland on a Budget and Limited Time
Whether you're on a budget or have limited time, an international vacation is still possible. There are web sites, public transportation and cheap daytrips that can help.
Mar 7, 2009 - Julia Bourque
Cross-Cultural Solutions and Volunteering Abroad
Cross-Cultural Solutions offers international volunteer opportunities in Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. Volunteers can help for two to twelve weeks.
Feb 21, 2009 - Julia Bourque
Tapping Maple Trees
The tradition of making pure maple syrup has not died. Learn how Native Americans discovered this natural sweetener and how syrup producers today carry on the tradition.
Feb 21, 2009 - Julia Bourque