Babble Fish

Have You Seen My Knork?

2008-08-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

Knork Flatware, the vision of Michael D. Miller, puts a whole new spin on the age-old "fork." The Knork combines both the capability of a knife (to slice) and a fork (to spear) into one utensil. Not only will you look less like a doofus trying to cut into your pizza slice (with a steak knife), but you can hand them over to your 11 year old sons without fearing them being thrown across the room, darts style.

Not that YOUR CHILD would ever do that, of course.

We're just saying.

Mr. Duey

2008-08-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

As much as we love educational CDs, most of them inspire only yawns out of us. So, when we were sifting through the pile of new arrivals, were actually quite surprised to by the sounds of the Mr. Duey CD. The Mr. Duey CD pairs both great, educational hip-hop lyrics with catchy beats - making everyone want to get up and dance.

He offers lessons in Math, Science, Social Studies, and English on his CD and each song is equally great.

Check it out and let us know what you think!

Boogie Wipes

2008-08-15T15:41:00.001-07:00

For this household, it feels like we never get a break from runny noses - cold and flu during the fall and winter and dreaded allergies for...well, the entire year. Snotty noses are just things we deal with on a more-than-occasional basis. Unfortunately, so are puffy, sore and red noses. Until Now.

Until Boogie Wipes.

Boogie Wipes, the creation of two moms, is a saline mixture soaked wipe for big and little noses, alike. The saline helps dry up noses as well as soften that little bunch of crusted on gunk they acquired somewhere in between the fresh scrubbing in the shower and the church parking lot. Plus, each wipe is super soft and has a fresh clean scent, perfect for hurting noses.

**Plus! Free shipping for all US Orders between now and September 1, 2008.

Pizza Quesadillas

2008-08-12T08:44:00.001-07:00

Serves 4

4 whole wheat tortillas
1 1/4 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
1/2 cup pasta sauce
6 slices vegetarian pepperoni, cut into thin strips
1 tablespoon olive oil

Place tortillas on a flat surface. Use 3/4 cup of the cheese to sprinkle on one half of each of the tortillas. Top the cheese on each tortilla with 2 tablespoons of pizza/pasta sauce. Equally divide pepperoni and place pepperoni on top of sauce. Sprinkle last 1/2 cup of cheese on top of pepperoni on each of the tortillas. Fold tortilla over, pressing lightly. Having a small amount of cheese on both the bottom and top of the tortilla will help it remain closed once cheese is melted. Place olive oil in the bottom of a non stick skillet over medium heat. Place two quesadillas at a time in the skillet. Brown quesadillas lightly on each side. Allow to cool slightly and cut each quesadilla into 3–4 triangles.

*From Whole Foods

Contest!! Build your own Marble Ramp!

2008-08-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

*photo from kidmade website

This is an AWESOME idea for kids and parents to participate in together. The idea? Build the longest marble ramp using only duct tape and cardboard. You ARE allowed, however, to use things such as walls, tables and chairs to prop it up.

Go here to check it out and read how to enter (it's really easy).

You have until the end of August to complete it! Be sure to comment here and let us know if you choose to participate! We'd love to feature ALL of our readers' photos of their ramps on our blog post!

And...just in case you haven't already signed up for our $50 Gift Certificate Giveaway for Good for the Kids, you can do so here :)

Recycled Can Lanterns

2008-08-04T11:32:00.000-07:00

Make your own "lanterns" using recycled cans! This craft is suitable for adults and teens with a parents guidance. Please be aware that there will be sharp cutting instruments involved and sharp edges. Please keep away from children.

How to:

Rinse out any aluminum cans you wish to use. Be sure to leave the pop top intact, as you will use this to hang your lanterns.

Next, fill the aluminum cans with water and place in the freezer. Once frozen, take the cans out and place them in warm water - You want the ice inside to not be stuck to the insides of the can, yet still be a large chunk of ice. This will make cutting easier.

Using a box cutter or other blade (and preferably some thick gloves if you have them), cut slits in the can - approximately 1.5 inches apart, beginning towards the top of the can and ending towards the bottom. Once all slits have been made, bend out the sections you have just cut, so they bow outwards. You can crease them or leave them rounded.

Place the can back in the hot water to melt the ice. Lastly, place a tea-light inside. You may want to use a screwdriver to make the inverted bottom of the can more flat so the tea-light won't slide. However, glue or sticky tack may work just as well.

String your lanterns up using the pop tabs and fishing line (or string of your choice).

(The Cans featured in this craft are a drink called Fizz Ed. A great, all natural sparkling juice drink from appleandeve.com)

Spa At Home

2008-07-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

Summer often comes with aching backs and sore muscles, and taking a day to the spa for every ache and pain just isn't feasible (for most of us). Try the tips below to create your own in-house (and affordable) spa.

For aching feet:
Fill a tub or basin with warm water and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. If your feet are really tired and sore, try a mix of lavender and peppermint oils. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. Then, apply sugar to your feet (or a store bought or other homemade scrub) and rub in. Use a pumice stone to smooth away any particularly rough spots. Next, rinse your feet and dry them. Use your favorite soothing lotion (or add some lavender essential oil to an unscented lotion) and massage it into your feet and legs. Once your lotion is massaged in, put The Happy Company Soothing Cozy Slippers on and relax as the pain melts away from your feet.

For an aching back:
Use The Happy Company's Foot and Body Roller (which is also great for feet) to massage the muscles in your back. For more relief, have a friend or partner apply the therapy. Afterwards, use The Happy Company's Hot or Cold Gel Water Bottle to soothe and reduce swelling in your muscles. For extra relief, try mixing some peppermint oil and a carrier oil (like olive oil) and massaging it into muscles that hurt and reapplying the Hot or Cold Gel Water Bottle.

Headache:
In a darkened room, use a carrier oil such as olive oil (about the size of a quarter) and a few drops of peppermint essential oil, massage your into and around your hairline, temples, and the back of your neck. Next, gently press beneath your eyebrows (where they start, closest to your nose) to relieve pressure. Do some gentle stretching of your neck - side to side, and then turn your chin toward your shoulder, gently grasping the back of your head with your hand and lightly pulling down. Repeat on other side. Then, use the Happy Company Soothing Gel Eye Mask to help sooth any eye strain or headaches away.

Creating a spa at home can be easy, and incredibly affordable with a just a few main supplies. Try recreating your home spa often to keep yourself relaxed and at peace - and best of all, happy.

School Lunch/Picnic Lunch Ideas

2008-07-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

I have had a few inquiries for ideas for school lunches - where a microwave or oven are not options. So, this my friends is for you:

Carbs Ideas:
-whole wheat/whole grain tortilla wraps
-whole wheat/whole grain bread or toast
-brown rice
-risotto
-whole wheat/whole grain pasta
-pita bread
-English muffin
-whole grain bagel

Sandwich Fillers:
-Tuna salad
-bacon, lettuce, and tomato
-sliced turkey, lettuce, mayonnaise, and cranberry sauce
-sliced turkey, swiss cheese, tomatoes, cucumber slices, and alfafa sprouts mixed with mayonnaise
-tomato, cucumber, avocado, alfafa sprouts, ranch dressing, and swiss cheese
- chopped pineapple, ham or turkey, and honey mustard
-roast beef, lettuce, pickled cucumbers, tomatoes, and mustard
-shredded chicken, chopped tomatoes, chopped hard boiled egg, snipped chives, lettuce, and mayo
-chicken salad
-tuna, lettuce, finely chopped green onion, and mayonnaise
-shrimp with lettuce and mayo mixed with a little ketchup
-cream cheese and smoked salmon
-chopped hard-boiled egg mashed with a little mayo, snipped chives or parsley, salt, and freshly ground pepper
-sliced swiss cheese, cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce
-cream cheese and cucumber
-grated cheese and carrots with a little mayo
-tomatoes, mozzarella, avocado, and french dressing
-hummus, grated carrots, and cucumber slices
-peanut butter and sliced banana with a little honey
-pb&j
-peanut butter and bacon
-peanut butter and raisins
-peanut butter and craisins

Non-Sandwich Ideas:
-Bake faux (veggie) chicken nuggets before school or the night before. (We love the Morningstar brand). Seal them in a ziploc bag and put in the fridge and then put them in the lunchbox with a little freeze box for their lunch. These don't have to be reheated and are YUMMY!
-Toast some bread or a bagel, smear on some spaghetti sauce and melt some mozz cheese and melt the cheese. Wrap in tinfoil.
-Mix up some tuna or chicken salad and send with crackers and cheese
-pasta salad
-soup in a thermos
-pasta in a thermos (spaghetti, alfredo, etc)

Other great ideas:
-Instead of using a freezer box, consider freezing their juice box or a bottled water and using that. By lunch time, the drink should be ready!
-Cut sandwiches out in cute shapes with cookie cutters
-Keep bread from getting soggy either by making sure all ingredients on the sandwich are dry, or separating the wet ingredients from the bread with dry lettuce. Another option is to put the wet ingredients in a separate container.
-Use sandwich wraps, tin foil, plastic wrap, or plastic containers to keep sandwiches fresh. Use plastic containers (rigid) to keep sandwiches from getting smooshed.
-Use wide-mouthed thermoses to keep food warm.
-Be sure to pack snacks and fruits for your child's lunch as well!
-The night before, set out your meats, carbs, veggies, fruits, healthy snacks, etc. and let your children help make their lunches. They are more likely to eat it if they get to pick it out!

Indoor Air Pollution and Plants

2008-07-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

Our home is our sanctuary - it is where we go when the weather is too hot or cold, or when we need to find rest and peace. However, did you know that our home-sanctuary could be unsafe? In fact, it could be harming our bodies more than we ever realized.

NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) tested ‘Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement,’ concentrating on solving whether indoor air pollution was a realistic threat to human health or not, and how it could be solved. Plants, being both economical and a promising solution were used first in the experiment.

There are THREE main chemicals in the air which have been proven harmful:

Benzene
Trichlorethylene
Formaldehyde

Benzene (B): a commonly used solvent in items such as gasoline, inks, oils, paint, plastic and rubber. It is used in the manufacture of detergents, explosives, pharmaceuticals and dyes.

Formaldehyde (F): found in virtually all indoor environments. Sources (some with more Formaldehyde than others) include urea-formaldehyde foam insulation, particle board, pressed-wood products, consumer paper products (including grocery bags, waxed paper, facial tissue, paper towels, etc.), and many household cleaning agents.

Trichloroethylene (T): is a commercial product that has a wide variety of industrial uses. It is used in some printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes and adhesives.

According to the NASA/ALC research, the following plants are great for purifying indoor air. Notice the corresponding letters (B,F,T) associated with each plant that explains which chemical the plant successfully cleans from the air.

Gerbera daisy (Transvaal daisy) (T, B)

Dracaena Marginata (T, F)

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum) (T, B, F)

Dracaena 'Janet Craig' (T, F)

Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea seifritzii) (B, F)

Pot Mum (Chrysanthemum) (B)
Dracaena Warneckei (B)

English Ivy (B)

Mother-in-law's Tongue (Sansevieria laurentii) (B, F)

Green Spider Plant (F)

Golden Pathos (F)

Local Goodness: Blackburn Spray Park

2008-07-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly (or, maybe not so much), Paducah, Kentucky has it's very own spray park - a spray park I knew nothing about until this past weekend. Built in 2006, Blackburn Spray Park features a large mushroom-shaped sprinkler, many fountains, a seal mini slide and more. Inside the spray park are a few large umbrellas that shade the large benches beneath them. Right outside the spray park, is a small playground and grassy areas, perfect for a picnic.

The best thing about Blackburn Park? Admission is free. And, clean. And, lots of fun.

Hours of operation are:

Monday through Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM

Memorial Day to Labor Day

For more information, go here: Blackburn Park

Tip: Bring some extra cash along if you come on a Saturday for the Ice Cream Truck that sometimes drives by!

Rockin' School Supplies: Some Of Our Favorites

2008-07-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

This school year, why not Be Green with Pilot Pen's new BeGreen line - Featuring 4 types of ink pens (all available in blue, black, and red) and a mechanical pencil, each being made from AT LEAST 70% recycled materials! Each writing instrument is available for $2 and under and most are refillable for continued use!
Tired of adorable puppies and Spiderman notebooks? Us too. Check out Street Science, a selection of notebooks with mad style - from extreme sports to musical influence and MORE. No more sissy folders for you!
Want something healthier for your child's snack time, but don't feel like twisting arms to get it in them? Try Breyer Yo Crunch yogurts with toppings. These little single serving cups are great for all ages and fit nicely in a lunch-box, or in the fridge as an afternoon snack! The yogurt is great for them and the candy toppings convinces them that it's good enough to eat (meaning it's less likely to just get trashed for being "too healthy"). Choose from a vast array of flavors and get your crunch on!
If your children are hooked on soda/pop, try this cool drink. It's actually really healthy for them ( a mixture of fruit juices and sparkling water), but they won't know the difference! Fizz ed by Apple and Eve really tastes great and comes in bright, modern cans that will surely be the hit of the lunchroom. Finally, something that REALLY is healthy (unlike a lot of other drinks out there). I'm totally okay with serving these at birthday parties or sending them in lunches. Two thumbs up!

Kids In The Kitchen

2008-07-09T09:31:00.001-07:00

Here's a great list I found on What's Cooking Blog that lists age-appropriate tasks children can do to help in the kitchen!

2-3 year olds can:

4-6 year olds can:

7-12 year olds can:

o Rinse vegetables or fruits

o Tear large pieces of lettuceo Stir

o Pour with assistance

o Select which ingredients they want to taste or use

o Recognize changes to ingredients during the cooking process

o Sort ingredients

o Help identify ingredients in the grocery store

o Group utensils when setting the table.

o Pour

o Mixo Count and do simple measurements

o Cut with a plastic or butter knife

o Crack eggs

o Start to follow recipe cards and symbols

o Create their own recipes, and draw them on cards

o Identify images or diagrams of ingredients on your grocery list

o Set the table.

o Do tasks listed previously

o Write your shopping list and read it to you at the store.

o Help select which recipes the family will share at mealtime.

o Read and follow recipeso Work with a heat source (supervised)

o Cut with a sharper knife (with instruction)

o Create their own recipes and write the steps

o Help to wash dishes

o Do tasks listed previously

Bisphenol A (BPA) in Plastics

2008-07-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Perhaps lately you have heard about the controversy and concern raised over BPA - which stands for Bisphenol A, an organic compound that mimics estrogen.

Organic compound? Organic is good, right? Well, not in this case. This is something totally different.

Bisphenol A has shown to cause:

-Permanent changes to genital tract
-Changes in breast tissue that predispose cells to hormones and carcinogens (meaning it could also predispose a person to breast cancer)
-30% increase in prostate mass
-signs of early puberty
-Decline in testicular testosterone
-Prostate cells more sensitive to hormones and cancer
-Insulin resistance
-Decreased maternal behavior
-Damage to eggs and chromosomes
-Hyperactivity
-Reversal of normal sex difference in brain structure

BPA is showing up in all sorts of stuff...and the latest concerns are over our plastics. Doctors and scientists are especially concerned regarding the growth of fetuses and infants. But, with almost everything being plastic in today's society, it seems like we're fighting an uphill battle with no chance of winning, right?

Don't feel discouraged...there IS a way to cut down on your use of BPA in plastics.

Here's how:

On the bottom or back of most plastics, you will find the recyclable symbol with a number printed in the center. Reference those numbers to see if you should trash your plastic, or if it's safe enough to keep.

Trash it (not safe):

1 - Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET, PETE) - Found in many soft drink, water, and salad dressing bottles; peanut butter and jam jars

3 - Polyvinyl Chloride (V) - Juice Bottles, cling films

6 - Polystyrene (PS) - Egg cartons, disposable cups, disposable plates, disposable trays, disposable cutlery, disposable take-away containers, yogurt and margarine containers

7 - Other - Beverage bottles, baby milk bottles

Keep It (okay to use - doesn't leach harmful amounts of BPA):

2 - High Density Poyethylane (HDPE) - Milk, juice, and water bottles, yogurt and margarine tubs, trash and retail bags

4 - Low Density Polyethylene (LPDE) - Frozen food bags; squeezable bottles, e.g. honey, mustard; cling films; flexible container lids.

5 - Polypropylene (PP) - Reusable microwaveable ware, kitchenware, yogurt containers, margarine tubs, microwaveable disposable take-away containers, disposable cups and plates.

Want to know MORE?

Wikipedia
ehp Environmental Health
Toxic Nation

Best Of...Cloth Diapers and Accessories 2008

2008-07-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

from www.firstimpressionsbaby.com/blog

Brand Name: Fuzzi Bunz
Type: Pocket Diaper
Sizing Info.
Rating: 9.5

Pricing: approx. $15 -$20 (depending on whether you buy the newer versions and whether you buy a solid or print)

Comments: Larger cut than most. Less bulky than most of the other brands tried in this experiment. We experienced NO leaks with this diaper!

However, I do wish there was a third snap to keep the tabs aligned better.

**NOTE: Be sure to pull the top of the tabs up so they are even.

Click here to BUY NOW

Brand Name: BumGenius
Type: Pocket One-Size Diaper
Sizing Info.: Fits babies from 7 -35 lbs (it's adjustable- the same
diaper can fit three different sized children in that range).
Rating: 9

Pricing: $17.95

Comments: I love that this diaper is one size. I like the thought of it lasting until my daughter is ready to be potty trained - not to mention the fact that siblings (between the 7-35 range) could share diapers. You wouldn't have to worry any longer about who's is who's! I also like the covered insert opening - It keeps the insert from coming out of the diaper (which would get baby's clothes wet), but does not keep the insert from being able to be shaken loose into the diaper pail.

Another plus? It isn't bulky.

Click here to BUY NOW

Brand Name: BumGenius
Type: AIO (All In One)

Sizing Info.:

XS (Extra-Small) fits from 6-12 pounds. It is intended for a newborn and fits low, below the naval, to keep the umbilical area dry. This diaper is designed to fit during that itty-bitty newborn stage.
S (Small) fits from 8-16 pounds. This diaper is slightly larger with a higher rise than the XS. It is intended for after your
baby's umbilical cord has fallen off.
M (Medium) fits from 15 - 22 pounds.
L (Large) fits from 22 - 30 pounds.

Rating: 9 - One of the best AIOs I've used, yet!

Pricing: $15.95

Comments: Very convenient and would be a great starter diaper for those new to cloth diapering (or dads who like disposables!). These do take a little longer to dry (because they are AIOs), but for me, it wasn't that big of a deal.

Click here to BUY NOW.

Brand Name: Green Acre Designs
Type: Pocket Diaper

Sizing Info:

For a Small the waist settings are 8-19 inches. The thigh settings are 6-11 inches. The rise is 10.5 to 15 inches.

For a Medium the waist settings are 11-23 inches. The thigh settings are 8-13 inches. The Rise is 12 to 17 inches.

For a Medium Long the Waist settings are the same as a medium diaper but the thigh settings are 8-14 inches and the rise is 12.5 to 18 inches.

For A Husky Medium Diaper the Waist is the same as a large 12-25 Inches. The Thigh Settings are the Same as a Medium Long, 8-14 inches and the Rise is 13-18 inches.

For the Large the waist settings are 12-25 inches.
The thigh settings are 10-16 inches.The rise is 14 to 19 inches.

Rating: 7

Pricing: $19.95 (includes insert)

Comments: These diapers are a little bulkier than those that scored higher. However, I do like the dark colors for the interior for staining (you can't tell). Fleece is usually pretty good at not staining, but occasionally it can't be helped. Still a great diaper!

Click here to BUY NOW

Brand Name: Haute Pockets
Type: One Size Pocket Diaper

Sizing Info: One size.

Rating: 9

Pricing: $13.95

Comments: A wonderful value! These diapers are made from breathable PUL, which is even better for little bottoms! Beware, if you let the diaper get too full, the diaper will feel a bit damp (but that is easily remedied by just changing them more often - which will help with rashes anyhow!) And, who can beat the price?

Click here to BUY NOW

Brand Name: Preston's Pants
Type: Pocket Diaper

Sizing Info.

Rating: 7

Pricing: ?? - Not listed on website for Solid PULs

Comments: Soaked all the way through when we first tried it. But, hasn't done that again, since. So, I'm chalking it all up to needing to be washed more to improve absorbency. I do like the 3rd snap to keep the tabs in place.

Click here to BUY NOW

Brand Name: Bummis
Type: "Bamboozle" - A Fitted Diaper

Sizing Info:
Size 1- 5-18 lbs
Size 2- 10-35 lbs

Rating: 8.5

Pricing: approx. $20

Comments: This fitted diaper is oh-so-soft! It has a built in liner/insert, so you won't lose it! Please don't forget that this IS a fitted, you WILL need to purchase a diaper cover.

Click here to BUY NOW

Brand Name: Princess Lacie
Type: AIO

Sizing Info.: (Newborn Only)
Weight- up to 12lbs
Rise- 12"
Waist- 14-19"
Leg- 6-9"

Rating: 3

Pricing: $10

Comments: Flannel Interior (as opposed to the fleece interior). Not such a great idea unless you are a fan of the "swish" cleaning method. These diapers soaked through after 3 hours (and several washings).

Click here to BUY NOW

ACCESSORIES!!

Item Name : Snappi Fastener
Pricing: $2.49 for Infant Snappi Fastener (each)
$3.49 for Toddler Snappi Fastener (each)

Rating: 9.5

Comments:
I've never seen anything like these! They fasten your babies' diaper (if you use prefolds, flats, or fitteds with no closures) with NO NEED for diaper pins! Snappi Fasteners equate to easier, faster, and painless diaper changes.

Click here to BUY NOW

Item Name: Super Brite (diaper cover)

Pricing: approx. $12.95

Sizing Info:
newborn: 4-9 lbs
small: 8-16 lbs
medium: 15-30 lbs
large: 27-36 lbs
x-large: 32+ lbs

Rating: 9.5
Comments: Great diaper cover! I love love love the patterns and bright colors!
Just a reminder, these covers go OVER flats, prefolds, and fitteds. Not to be worn alone.

Click here to BUY NOW

Item Name: Bio-Soft Liners

Pricing: approx. $5-$7 for 100 sheets

Rating: 9

Comments: These biodegradable liners go in your cloth diapers for easy clean up. You can trash them or flush them. I would HIGHLY recommend these, especially for when you are out and about with cloth diapers!

Click here to BUY NOW

Pros And Cons Of The Different Types Of Cloth Diapers

2008-07-09T09:24:00.001-07:00

from www.firstimpressionsbaby.com/blog

All In Ones (AIO)

Pros:
Easy to use
Function similar to that of a disposable
Daycares prefer them

Cons:
Long drying times
Some wear out faster (especially ones with PUL outers), since they spend more time in the dryer

All In Twos (AI2, a type of All In Ones that comes apart into 2 pieces, the liner snaps out)

Pros:
When cared for properly, do not wear out any faster than covers/prefolds
Easy to use
High resale diaper
Somewhat daycare - friendly
Much like a disposable

Cons:
Must keep matching doublers with their coordinating diapers
Expensive
Need alot

Fitted Diapers

Pros:
Similar shape as disposables
Don’t need to be pinned or folded
Can be washed at a high temp (separately from covers)
Elastic around legs and waist hold in (hopefully) all messes even before you use the cover (which should provide even more protection)
Depending on style, can wash and dry quickly
Doesn’t take up a lot of space
Many choices

Cons:
More steps (diaper plus cover)
Some covers won’t fit well with the fitteds, so be sure to check before you buy
sometimes made with so many layers they are hard to clean and slow to dry
Have to struggle with getting two layers off squirmy, dirty baby
Every brand does not fit every baby
More expensive

Flats and Prefolds:

Pros:
Absorbent
Economical
Easy to customize the fit to your baby
Fits all babies
Easy to wash, fast to dry

Cons:
Takes more time to fold
Must use a pin or other fastener
Must use a cover
Takes longer to change the diaper (more steps)

Pocket Diapers:

Pros:
You control the absorbency by how much you stuff
No wet bottom ( synthetic liner wicks moisture away from baby’s skin)
Not too bulky

Cons:
Have to stuff them once they are done washing and drying
No wet tush (may be harder if you are pottytraining)
Cost

Cooking for a crowd

2008-07-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

It may just so happen that this year (or every year for that matter) you were the oh-so-lucky individual "picked" to be the host of this year's holiday festivities...and you get to cook all the food, too.

So, you finally have narrowed down the guest list as to who is coming and who isn't (for the most part, anyhow). Now, you can move on to trying to calculate exactly how much Uncle Alfred can put away and if your 17 year old cousin will even eat at all...so how are you supposed to figure out how much to fix, then? You don't want leftover portions enough to sustain a small army for a week, but you also don't want dear old Uncle Alfred ransacking your cabinets for a little something more to satisfy him (after all, what if he found your chocolates? Oh, my!).

Don't lose heart, I have the perfect thing for you! Check out Cooking for a Crowd.

And by the way... I'd go ahead and hide those chocolates (just in case). Uncle Alfred may not like banana pudding. Who knew an old, fat bald guy could be so picky?

Going Green and Clean

2008-07-09T09:12:00.000-07:00

Most of us like to think that the widespread contamination of our groundwater, soil and air is entirely due to the irresponsibility of large industry. We refuse to accept the notion that in our own everyday lives we are contributing to the slow poisoning of the planet. But commonly used substances such as paint thinners, household pesticides, cleaners and solvents, and some aerosols produce hazardous waste. Our responsibility for them does not end at our curbside. Leaching out of municipal landfills into the groundwater, released into the air from garbage incinerators, or discharged from sewer systems into public waters, toxic waste comes back to haunt us.

Many of those same household products present a direct health hazard to you and your family. Most commercial polishes, for example, contain poisonous solvents that emit vapors. These products are often composed of the same toxic chemicals that industrial dumpers have used to pollute our land, air and water. The simple household pesticide you use to eliminate bugs in your garden is the same deadly poison which has given farm workers high rates of cancer. These persistent organic compounds are among the most deadly substances known.

Household toxics management programs in which citizens separate hazardous from non-hazardous wastes do not work. There is no safe way to dispose of toxic waste. The only long-term solution to keeping our water and air clean -- and our homes safe -- is reduction. Householders, like industry, must learn to live without many of the "wonder" products invented in the last 50 years. But when we remember that these products are identical to the substances which poison our water and air, we can readily commit ourselves to making responsible choices.

This factsheet brings good news. There are alternatives to "household toxics". Some of these products are more time-consuming to prepare, but they're cheaper than commercial products, and more importantly, they represent an investment in the future health of the planet.

Household Cleaners and Polishes
When cleaning your home, keep in mind that you don't have to replace grease and dirt with dozens of chemicals dangerous to your family and the overall environment. Most of your household cleaning needs can be met with six simple ingredients: vinegar, soap, baking soda, washing soda, borax, and ammonia. Various combinations of these simple substances can accomplish most household cleaning jobs cheaply and safely.
Use caution with all cleaners. Even some non-toxic cleaners are unsafe for consumption.

All-Purpose Cleaner
Mild Mixture:
1 gallon (4 L) hot water
1/4 C (50 ml) sudsy ammonia
1/4 C (50 ml) vinegar
1 T (5ml) baking soda

This solution is safe for all surfaces, can be rinsed with water, and is very effective for most jobs. For a stronger cleaner or wax stripper, double the amounts of all ingredients except water. Use gloves, and do not mix with other compounds, especially chlorine bleach. (Never mix ammonia and bleach: an extremely toxic gas is produced.)

Laundry
In the 1960s concern about phosphates in detergents led to legislated reduction in some areas to protect our lakes and streams. But detergent related problems persist because of the sheer volume of cleansers used by North Americans.
The best alternative for cleaning your clothes is, naturally enough, soap. Despite the advantages of detergents, (the dictionary defines soap as "a biodegradable cleansing and emulsifying agent made by action of alkali on fat or fatty acids and consisting essentially of sodium or potassium salts of such acids" and detergent as "any of numerous nonbiodegradable synthetic water-soluble or liquid organic preparations that are chemically different from soaps, but are able to emulsify oils, hold dirt in suspension, and act as wetting agents"). Soap has accomplished the task of getting garments white and bright for generations.
Try this recipe:
Add 1/3 C (80 ml) washing soda (sodium carbonate) to water as machine is filling.
Add clothes.
Add 1 1/2 C (375 ml) of soap.
If the water is hard, add 1/4 C (50 ml) soda or 1/4 C (50 ml) vinegar during the first rinse.

Detergents leave a residue on fabrics that must be removed with softeners. If you have been using detergents in your laundry, it is advisable to get rid of the detergent film. To prevent yellowing, run your laundry through the washer with 1/3 C (80 ml) washing soda before you convert to soap.

There are alternatives to enzyme presoaks and bleach for tough stains, too. Test each of the following remedies on your fabric first. If it starts to discolor, neutralize the cleaning agent immediately. Acids (lemon juice and vinegar) neutralize alkalies (baking soda and ammonia), and alkalies neutralize acids. Wash after application.

HEAVY SOILS: Rub with solution of 2 T (30 ml) washing soda in 1 C (250 ml) warm water.
SOILED DIAPERS: Presoak in 3 T (45 ml) baking soda dissolved in warm water in either tub or washing machine.
FRUIT AND WINE: Immediately pour salt or hot water on the stain and soak in milk before washing.
GREASE: Pour boiling water on stains and follow with dry baking soda. Or try ammonia and water.
INK: Soak in milk or remove with hydrogen peroxide.
BLOOD: Soak in cold water or remove with hydrogen peroxide. For a more stubborn stain, mix cornstarch, talcum powder, or cornmeal with water and apply the mixture. Allow to dry and brush away.
COFFEE: Mix egg yolk with luke-warm water and rub on stain.
CHEWING GUM: Rub with ice. Gum will flake off.
LIPSTICK: Rub with cold cream or shortening and wash with washing soda.
RUST: Saturate with sour milk (or lemon juice) and rub with salt. Place in direct sunlight until dry, then wash.
MILDEW: Pour strong soap and salt on the spots and place in sunlight. Keep the spots moist, and repeat as often as necessary.
SCORCHES: Boil scorched article in 1 C (250 ml) soap and 2 quarts (liters) milk.
Carpets
To fully clean and deodorize carpets, mix 2 parts cornmeal with 1 part borax. Sprinkle liberally, leave one hour, then vacuum. For tougher stains, repeatedly blot with vinegar in soapy, water. For red wine spills, blot with white wine and warm, soapy, water. Quick deodorizing is easy if you sprinkle the carpet with baking soda, then vacuum.

Polishing Metals
COPPER: Lemon juice and salt, or hot vinegar and salt.
CHROME: Rubbing alcohol, or a small amount of ammonia with hot water. Also try white flour in a dry rag.
BRASS: Equal parts salt and flour, with a little vinegar.
SILVER: Bring to boil in a large pan: 1 quart (1 litre) water; 1 T (15 ml) salt; 1 T (15 ml) baking soda. Drop in silver, boil for 3 minutes, and polish with a soft cloth. Or, polish with a paste of wood ash and water.

Ovens
Combine strong version of all-purpose cleaner with baking soda: wear gloves when scrubbing. An easier oven cleaner is ammonia: Place about 1/4 C (50 ml) in a shallow pan (not aluminum), and add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat oven for 20 minutes, turn off, and place pan in oven overnight. Baked-on foods will be loosened, and the oven can be cleaned with baking soda and scrubbing.

Drains
Your drains can be kept open, clean, and odor-free without the use of corrosive drain cleaners. Two simple rules: Never pour liquid grease down a drain, and always use the drain sieve. In addition, use this preventive measure for drains once a week: Mix 1 C (250 ml) baking soda, 1 C (250 ml) salt, and 1/4 C (50 ml) cream of tartar. Pour 1/4 C of this mixture into drain. Follow with a pot of boiling water, and flush with cold water. Done once a week, your drain should remain open and odor-free.
In the event a drain becomes clogged, pour in 1/4 C (50 ml) baking soda followed by 1/2 C (125 ml) vinegar, close the drain until the fizzing stops, and flush with boiling water. As a last resource, use a plumber's snake, available at most hardware stores, but be aware it can damage pipes.

Tub and Tile
Most commercial tile cleaners do more harm than good because many contain chlorine, a serious irritant to eyes, nose and skin, and one of the most dangerous chemicals found in municipal sewers. For bathroom cleaning, use a firm-bristled brush with either baking soda and hot water or the mild all-purpose cleaner.

Dishes
Set aside your dish detergent, and dissolve soap flakes in hot water. Add some vinegar to the water for tough grease.

Polishes
Most store-bought polishes contain solvents that are released into the air. Aerosol sprays are wasteful, and many contain gases harmful to the environment.
FURNITURE POLISH: Dissolve 1 t (5 ml) lemon oil in 1 pint (4/5 ml) mineral oil. Apply with a rag.
POLISHING CLOTH: Melt 1/4 C (50 ml) paraffin (wax) and 1/4 C (50 ml) vinegar together in a double boiler. Soak a dusting rag in the mixture for 1/2 hour, then squeeze and hang to dry.
FLOOR POLISH: Melt 1/8 C (25 ml) paraffin in a double boiler. Add 1 quart (I L) mineral oil and a few drops of lemon essence. Apply with a rag, allow to dry, and polish.

Mirrors, Glass and Windows
Wash with simple soap and water; rinse with a solution of 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water. Or use a spray bottle and a mixture of 1/2 C (120 ml) ammonia, 1/8 c (25 ml) vinegar, and a quart (1 L) of very warm water (the warmer the water, the faster the evaporation). Use washable, reusable cheese cloth rather than paper towels or dry with loosely crumpled sheets of newspaper.

Air fresheners
Commercial air fresheners work by masking smells, coating nasal passages and deadening nerves to chemically alter odors and diminish the sense of smell. Avoid these products. Grow house plants, which are an excellent source for air purification. Baking soda in your refrigerator or garbage can help reduce odors at their source. A small bowl of vineger in a room will help soak up odors as well.

Controlling Garden Pests
Find out which non-chemical fertilizers aid in controlling bugs, and how to fortify your plants with proper soil care. Pesticides carry the suffix "-cides." which means "killer." Natural pesticides are cheaper and safer for your family, and are usually "pest-specific".
Learn to promote the population of beneficial pests such as lady bird beetles, bees, fly, larvae, lace-wing larvae (aphid lions), praying mantis, dragon flies, predacious mites and thrips, spiders, toads, garter snakes, and birds. Investigate "companion planting, which can provide a natural barrier to bugs.
Outdoor Pests
The following methods will assist in healthy gardening:
HANDPICKING is time-consuming but unbeatable. Use gloves, and remove all visible offending pests.
SPRAYING -- on foliage:
TOBACCO WATER: Place a large handful of tobacco into 4 quarts (4 L) of warm water. Let stand for 24 hours. Dilute and apply with a spray bottle. This tobacco water is poisonous to humans -- use caution when handling.
HOT PEPPERS: Blend 2 or 3 very hot peppers, 1/2 onion and 1 clove garlic in water, boil, steep for two days, and strain. This spray, will not damage indoor or outdoor plants and can be frozen for future use.
GARLIC: Mix 4 Q (4 L) water, 2 T (30 ml) garlic juice (do not use garlic powder, as it will burn the plants), 32 grams of diatomaceous earth (see below), and 1 t (5 ml) rubbling alcohol. Can be frozen for later use.
SOAP: Use only pure soap, as detergents will damage your plants. Liquid soaps: 2 T (30 ml) per quart (litre) of water. Dry soaps: 50 grams per quart (litre) of water.
Barriers
COLLARS: To stop hatching larvae from burrowing into the soil surrounding your plants, use "collars" made of stiff paper, heavy plastic or tar paper. Cut a piece a foot square and fit snugly around the stem of the plant on top of the soil. Use a paper clip to hold it in place.
NETTING: Fine netting such as cheese cloth, placed over the bed, will protect seedlings from chewing insects, keep cats and birds away, and prevent living insects from having eggs.
Please contact the organizations listed for more information. Greenpeace strongly. recommends that gardeners make full use of modern organic methods.
Formulated, biodegradable pest-control substances are commercially available. For example:
PYRETHRUM DUST: Very effective against soft-bodied insects such as caterpillars, with toxicity, to mammals. Avoid inhaling.
DIATOMACEOUS EARTH: made from the skeletons of tiny organisms, this dust controls pests by causing dehydration and death. Can be used indoors and out. Please follow manufacturer's instructions carefully.
INSECTICIDAL SOAP: This soap is available in gardening, hardware, and drug stores.
Controlling Indoor Pests
ANTS: Locate the place of entry, squeeze a lemon onto it and leave the peel. Ants will also retreat from lines of talcum powder, chalk, damp coffee grounds, bone meal, charcoal dust and cayenne pepper.
COCKROACHES: Plug all small cracks along baseboards, wall shelves, and cupboards, and around pipes, sinks, and bathtub fixtures. A light dust of borax around the fridge, stove and ductwork is effective in controlling cockroaches. For a trap, lightly grease the inner neck of a milk bottle and put a little stale beer or a raw potato in it.
FRUIT FLIES: Pour a small amount of beer into a wide-mouth jar. Cut the corner out of a plastic bag and attach the bag to the jar with a rubber band. Flies will enter and be trapped. Change the beer when necessary.
FLIES: Sunny windows are flies' most common entrance into your home, so close windows before the sun hits them. Use regular sticky flypaper to catch unwelcome flying guests. You can make your own with honey and yellow paper.
MOTHS: Keep vulnerable clothes dry and well aired. Camphor can be used, as it is the major, nontoxic ingredient of moth balls. To trap moths, mix 1 part molasses with 2 parts vinegar and place it in a yellow container. Clean regularly.
HOUSE PLANT PESTS: Hot-pepper spray will also help to control pests on the leaves. And don't forget soap and water, but be sure to rinse the plants with fresh water afterwards.
SILVERFISH: Traps can be made with a mixture of 1 part molasses to 2 parts vinegar. Place near cracks and holes where pests live. Silverfish can be repelled by treating baseboards, table legs, and cracks in cupboards with a mixture of borax and sugar (or honey).
SPIDERS: Under ideal conditions, do not destroy spiders because they help control pests.
STORED FOOD PESTS: Keep mites and moths out of your staples by drying the food in a warm oven (70 F, 20 C) for one hour or by freezing for 2-3 days. Always store foods in air tight containers. Weevils' favorite foods are beans and grains; to keep them away, hang small cloth sacks of black pepper in your food bins of around your food storage area. A few soapberries per bushel of stored wheat will also drive out weevils.
TICKS and FLEAS: If your pets are infested, wash them well with soap and warm water, dry them thoroughly, and use this herbal rinse: Add 1/2 C (125 mL) of fresh or dried rosemary to a quart (litre) of boiling water. Steep 20 minutes, strain, and allow to cool. Spray or sponge evenly onto pet and allow to air dry. Do not towel down, as this will remove the residue. Make sure pets are dry before letting them outside.

GREENPEACE has compiled the information contained in this factsheet from a variety of sources and can assume no responsibility for the effectiveness of the suggestions. Caution is urged in the use of the cleaning solutions and pest-control substances. KEEP THEM OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

Eating Less Toxic Foods

2008-07-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

The Musts and Myths of Organic and Locally

So you've been known to occasionally spend extra on organic milk, mosey over to the free-range meat section, and make an effort to support your local farms by buying berries from a roadside fruit stand.

Still, I'm betting the farm that if you're confused about when to go local, when you should go organic, and when it's all just baloney, you're not alone.I reached out to two experts in the field for some solid answers. Joy Bauer, nutritionist extraordinaire, breaks down the musts and myths of organic and local, while Ryan Hardy, the fresh-market-obsessed chef at The Montagna in Aspen, provides five easy ways to include the best of both into our diets. I hope this helps you figure out the best ways to bring farm-fresh food closer to your home.

WHAT IS LOCALLY GROWN? Locally grown means seasonal food from small farms. Some say it applies only to foods grown within a 100-mile radius; others stretch it to 250 miles.

MUSTS: Seasonal fruits, seasonal vegetables, milk and dairy.

WHY? Local crops harvested at their peak of freshness and flavor offer superior nutrient density, and buying produce from local growers reduces the environmental impact and costs of transporting product.

MYTHS: Local food is not necessarily organically grown. However, there is truth to many local farmers' claims that they do not use pesticides.

WHY? They just can't advertise themselves as certified organic unless they've gone through the certification process, which is lengthy and expensive.

WHAT'S ORGANIC?For plants, organic means grown on certified organic land without synthetic fertilizers or chemicals (like pesticides). Genetic modification and irradiation are also off-limits. For animals, organic means access to the outdoors, only organic feed for at least a year, and no antibiotics or growth hormones.

MUSTS: Apples, cherries, grapes (especially if they're imported), nectarines, peaches, pears, raspberries, strawberries, bell peppers, celery, potatoes, and spinach.

WHY? Because these fruits and veggies have been found to contain the most pesticide residue, even after being washed. If you want to go the extra mile, also buy your beef, poultry, and dairy organic. Organic meats and dairy are much more expensive than nonorganic, but they'll also reduce your exposure to toxins.

MYTHS: You don't need to worry about buying these organic: bananas, kiwi, mangoes, papaya, pineapple, asparagus, avocado, broccoli, cauliflower, corn, onion, sweet peas, and seafood.

WHY? Because these fruits and veggies tend not to carry pesticide residue, and seafood has no USDA organic certification standards (so "organic seafood" doesn't mean much).

Now that you've got the dirt on organic and local, check out Chef Ryan Hardy's 5 easy ways to bring the benefits of both to your table:
1. Go to farmer's markets. The farmer's market may not always easily fit into your busy schedule, but taking 30 minutes to buy good foods for your family is worth the time.
2. Demand it at your local store. Ask your local grocer to get in products you want -- be specific and follow up.
3. Talk with local chefs who use local, organic ingredients. Chefs are notoriously picky about finding the right product. Ask about the ingredients they use.... You'll probably find out that most are easily obtainable.
4. Buy what's in season. Food is at its cheapest when it's at its best -- so take advantage and eat fresh fruits and vegetables when they're at their peak.
5. Eat more greens. Farm-fresh salad greens are exciting additions to all kinds of dishes, not just salads. Try adding them to pasta, serving them under a steak, or simply sandwiching them with goat cheese between bread.

http://food.yahoo.com/blog/editorspicks/179/the-musts-and-myths-of-organic-and-locally-grown

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2008-07-09T09:09:00.000-07:00

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2008-07-09T09:08:00.000-07:00

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