March Frienships Renew – johanna
March 10th, 2010 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF

Anne of Green Gables

Spring is here. Buds are forming on the trees. Everyone is out enjoying the beautiful weather. Since last fall we have battled illness after illness. There were two weeks of pink eye followed by two weeks of the flu in December. An ER trip, a bout of Fifth’s Disease and three weeks of bronchitis in January, oh and a cold. Our public appearances have been limited as each week a new victim is claimed. Either one of my kids is sick or one of my friend’s kids. With winter in full swing by the time February came we were all going stir crazy to get out and play. What I look forward to the most is walking with my friend Kate every morning. I also hope to finally have that playdate with Summer that has been on hold since last October as she and her family have been quarantined due to illnesses too.

This brings me to my resolution for March: Friendships. So far this year I have discovered more ways and reasons to laugh in January. February was filled with lots of hand written love notes and sweet gestures. Even though National Friendship Month is officially in August, during the month of March I hope to rekindle stale friendships.

Throughout my life I have had been fortunate to know many exquisite individuals. Those friendships (good and bad) have helped shape me into the person I am today. If I had my way we would all live on the same street together for the rest of our lives. Few are lucky enough to enjoy the cherished company of their best friends through the many stages of life. Unfortunately some friendships unintentionally drift apart leaving us with lasting memories we will always treasure.

The philosopher Aristotle said, “In poverty and other misfortunes of life, true friends are a sure refuge. They keep the young out of mischief; they comfort and aid the old in their weakness, and they incite those in the prime of life to noble deeds.”

Friendships are vital to our well being. Experts agree that if you have a vibrant circle of friends you will live a longer healthier life. Friends motivate and comfort us. Great friends challenge us to be better and applaud our accomplishments. When we learn how to be a good friend we become a better partner, mother, sister, employee and person as a whole.

In my thirties I have come to a new understanding of what a friend is. My friends are not limited to a couple close friends I do everything with and go every where together like back in college. For years after college I was depressed. I had started a new life elsewhere leaving my only bosom buddy miles away in another state. I struggled trying to find someone to connect with on the same level Elise and I had. Bosom buddies are extremely rare. There are few out there with whom we instantly click with. Someone we feel we have known all of our life; someone who understands us when no one else does. I had some really great friends at the time but I prevented them from getting too close because I was more interested in finding that soul sister. I decided that what I really needed was the circle of great friends I already had and to do so I had to be a better friend.

I have friends who I rarely see but the minute we hook up we pick up right where we left off. I have a couple of friends that are my rock. Just being around them gives me the confidence I need to take care of business. I have friends I can go to when I need an escape and friends who are treasures of wisdom. Lastly, there is my best friend who I was lucky enough to marry.

The Golden Rule in friendships is: Treat your friends as you wish to be treated.

Be a friend: Avoid complaining, gossiping, and criticizing. Listen intently to what the other person is saying not what you want to say. Avoid trying to solve problems. Offer your opinion only when asked. Be loyal do not talk about your friend behind their back. Babysit her kids, wash her floors or make her dinner. Be understanding. We all have busy lives.

Make time: Spend quality time with one another. Have a ladies night out, go on walks, host a playgroup, shop or work on a craft.

Follow up: Communicate by phone, email, letter or text.

Support: No one wants a friend who tells them they will fail or their dreams are lame. It is important to always support the dreams and goals of others even if they aren’t necessarily what you are interested in.

All relationships take time to develop and nurture. Being a busy mom I tend to put off calling a friend because I do not want to bother her. Ironically she is having the same inhibitions about calling me. This month my challenge is to override those thoughts and just call. Chances are she needs the phone call as much as I do.

Technorati Tags: family, friends, New Years resolutions

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The Dish on Sugar: Effects of Sugar and Natural Alternatives – johanna
March 3rd, 2010 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF

Photo by: Romain Behar

Sugar, in its various forms is found in practically everything from crackers and breads to dressings, meats, juices, jams, yogurt, nuts, some root vegetables and fruit. “White Sugar” is a sweet additive substance that has become an iconic symbol at birthday parties and a social obligation to every loving parent who wants to bring a smile to their child’s face. Sugary confections are so prevalent in our society that they have become commonplace when celebrating holidays, at gatherings and events. For many of us, serving up a treat is ingrained in us just as much as saying please and thank you. As a result, natural sugar substitutes are growing in popularity as concerned parents seek to dispel the harmful effects of “sugar”.  However, the little dark truth many of us do not want to accept, or some do not realize, is that anyway you look at it a sugar is a sugar.

The average American consumes about 1/2 cup of sugar a a day. A regular can of soda contains a whopping 9 teaspoons of sugar; the total recommended daily allowance of sugar for men. It is interesting to note that this statistic is not just related to decadent desserts. Anything made with sugar, natural or refined, can have the same effects.

Know the Terms:

• Glucose- a simple sugar made by the body through the digestion of carbohydrates. It is the body’s chief source for fuel.

• Sucrose- common white table sugar. It is highly processed from the sugar cane plant. Devoid of any nutrients.

• Fructose- highly processed natural sugar derived from fruits, honey and some root vegetables.  Fructose is linked to heart disease and high cholesterol; consumption should be limited. Devoid of any nutrients.

• Crystalline Fructose-  highly processed corn starch or sucrose (table sugar). Devoid of any nutrients.

• High Fructose Corn Syrup- highly processed corn, wheat and rice. Most used ingredient in processed foods. Is linked to heart disease and high cholesterol; consumption should be limited if not avoided. Devoid of any nutrients.

• Lactose- natural sugar found in milk.

• Maltose- malt sugar processed from honey, barley, wheat, rice or other grains. Generally used in making beer and as an additive to some processed foods.

For years sugar has been identified as the leading culprit in a myriad of health problems. Glucose, sucrose, fructose, lactose, maltose, artificial sweeteners and even alcohols are problematic in many ways in that they are all processed so you cannot always assume that even a natural sweetener is the healthiest. For example, fruit derived sugars (fructose), often used in the form of concentrated fruit juice, jams and honey, release glucose (a sugar produced by the body for fuel) faster than sucrose (table sugar). Fructose is broken down in the liver therefore when the liver becomes overloaded with fructose it begins to convert the sugar into triglycerides; a major culprit of insulin resistant cells and diabetes. Moreover, Fructose does not shut off appetite hormones triggering a greater chance of overeating which sets off a whole other chain of events. Along with the effect sugar has on blood sugar levels, not to mention the extra calories, sugar contributes to aliments  such as  obesity, diabetes, allergies, yeast infections, heart disease, Crohn’s disease, liver disease, vitamin deficiency, suppressed immune system, infections and Autism to name a few. (Effects of Sugar 146 reasons, Our Sweet Ending: Health Consequences With High Fructose Corn Syrup.)
A Lesson in Biology:

When carbohydrates are digested, they are broken down into a simple sugar called glucose. Carbohydrates such as fruit, bread, pasta, cereals and sweets are common sources of glucose. Glucose, commonly referred to as sugar, is an important energy source that is needed by all the cells and organs of our bodies especially our muscles and the brain. Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the bloodstream. A hormone Insulin is then secreted by the pancreas in response to the increase of glucose in the blood. The blood carries the sugar and the insulin to the cells. Most cells have insulin receptors which bind the insulin that is in circulation. Once a cell has attached insulin to its surface, another receptor is activated that will absorb the glucose from the blood to the inside of the cell. Without insulin our cells cannot access the calories contained in the glucose to use as fuel.

People with Type 1 Diabetes do not make insulin. These individuals require insulin shots that allows the cells to use glucose for energy. If cells become  resistant to insulin, the body will begin to produce more of it to compensate. Insulin resistance happens when cells have been inundated with insulin for so long, that the receptors lose their sensitivity to it. Those with Type 2 Diabetes have insulin resistant cells; meaning the cells are slow to respond to the insulin therefore they cannot effectively absorb the sugar. This causes the sugar to accumulate in the blood thus leading to increased production of insulin.

Too much insulin released into the blood stream can upset the blood sugar balance triggering the release of more insulin to bring the blood sugar back to a safe level. This reaction causes a chain of events by rapidly dropping blood sugar levels thus inducing hunger and ultimately promoting the storage of fat making way for rapid weight gain and high-blood pressure. On the flip side, if we starve ourselves the body will in turn attack our muscles, organs and bone tissue to convert proteins into glucose to keep the body going.

Just as an influx of glucose can cause a spike in insulin levels, excess sugars in the liver can lead to the production of excess Triglycerides. Triglycerides and Cholesterol are needed by the body to function. Triglycerides are a form of fat in the blood stream that provide the energy needed for cells to function. Cholesterol is used for building cell membranes and making essential hormones. As before mentioned, simple sugars are converted to glucose in the liver. Foods with a high glycemic index* are converted too fast. The overload of sugar in the liver prompt the body to produce more Insulin. Excess calories which have not been used for energy are converted into triglycerides right away. The triglycerides are stored in your fat cells to be released as energy between meals. The more calories we consume the the greater chance of having high triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides can lead to high-blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease.

*The glycemic index is a valuable tool for those with diabetes to help monitor how they eat but can also be used by those looking for alternatives to table sugar. The glycemic index measures how quickly a particular carbohydrate turns into glucose. Foods that rapidly release glucose (dried fruits, white potatoes, candy, enriched breads, rice, sweetened cereals) are high on the glycemic index because they cause a spike in the blood sugar levels. Foods that slowly release glucose (raw fruit, nuts, kidney bean, barley) are low on the glycemic index providing a gradual healthy rise in blood sugar.

All Things in Moderation:

The rule of thumb is to eat moderately throughout to day to keep the blood sugar from fluctuating too high or too low. A diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates and lean proteins in addition to daily exercise will aid in keeping blood sugar levels in check. Most importantly remember moderation in all things is the key. Sugar-free does not mean sugar-less. Sugar-free is a termed used when refined sugar has been replaced by a natural or artificial sweetener. Any use of these powders and syrups are still considered “added sugar” and should be limited. As a side note we all process sugars differently. Some individuals would do well switching over to a natural sweetener particularly diabetics, those with allergies and Celiacs disease to name a few. Use the following guidelines for substituting natural sugar in cooking and baking.

Photo by Scott Bauer

Sugar Substitutes:

Agave Nectar- is a fructose syrup made from a spiky desert cactus plant native to Mexico. It is 1 1/2 times sweeter than sugar so you can use less. Has a minimal effect on blood sugar and insulin levels. Can be used to sweeten drinks and  in baking. Agave nectar will not alter the flavors in your recipe as honey or maple syrup might do. When used in baking add the total amounts of sugar and multiply by 2/3. For every 1 cup sugar in a recipe use 2/3 cup agave. You will need to decrease the liquid in the recipe by 2 tablespoons and reduce the temperature by 25 degrees; baking several minutes longer. The herbal supplement containing agave should not be consumed when pregnant, but the nectar is fine.

Brown Rice Syrup- has half the sweetness of sugar and tastes vaguely of butterscotch or caramel. Brown rice syrup contains about 13 calories per teaspoon and is less sweet than sugar. Breaks down relatively slow but because it is a derivative of maltose diabetics should avoid using this sweetener as it causes a spike in blood sugar.  Rice syrup may be used to make cookies, crisps, granola, pies, and puddings. Combine with another sweetener such as maple for cakes. Substitute each cup of white sugar with 1 1/3 cups of brown rice syrup. As with agave nectar, slightly reduce liquids by 2 tablespoons and the temperature by 25 degrees.

Barley Malt Syrup- barley malt syrup can be used as a sweetener with cereals, breads and other dense bread-like baked goods  and baked beans. Substitute 1-1/3 cups barley malt for 1 cup white sugar.  Reduce liquid by 1/4 cup.  Add 1/4 teaspoon baking soda per cup barley malt.  Purchase only 100 percent barley malt, not barley/corn malt syrup.  Store refrigerated.

Maple Syrup- Grade B syrup- is boiled down maple tree sap containing  17 calories per teaspoon. Maple syrup still retains minerals manganese and zinc but is high on the glycemic index making it off limits for diabetics. Substitute 2/3 to 1/4 cup pure Vermont maple syrup for 1 cup white sugar.  Reduce liquid in recipe by 3 tablespoons.  Add 1/4 teaspoon baking soda per cup of maple syrup. Decrease oven temperature by 25 degrees.

Maple Sugar- use in all baked goods.  Substitute 1 cup maple sugar for 1 cup white sugar.  No reduction of liquid is necessary.  Add 1/8 teaspoon baking soda per cup.  Store in a tightly closed container and sift before using.  Mix with liquid to make glazes.

Honey- can be used in almost any recipe. Use to sweetening teas, cereals, salad dressings, in the place of jam, in baking and cooking. Substitute 2/3 to 3/4 cup for 1 cup white sugar.  Reduce liquid by 1/4 cup.  Add 1/4 teaspoon baking soda per cup honey.  Reduce oven 25 degrees and adjust baking time. Children under 1 year of age should not consume raw honey. Honey can affect blood sugar levels and is not recommended for diabetics. Raw honey is considered a superfood and is used as a natural remedy for many health aliments. Processed honey has been stripped of the essential vitamins and minerals and is devoid of any nutritional value. Often high fructose corn syrup is added to processed honey.

Erythritol- an ingredient largely found in packaged foods is used in a powder form to sweeten coffees and teas. It is low in calories and does not affect blood sugar or insulin levels. It is the result of breaking down, fermenting, and filtering sugar cane or corn starch until only crystals left. Erythritol won’t decay your teeth however it can cause problems like gas, bloating, and diarrhea.

Stevia- is derived from a plant native to South America. Stevia is 300 times sweeter than sugar but is technically not a sugar. Stevia has zero calories, does not feed yeast or cause any of the numerous problems associated with sugar. Some evidence shows that Stevia may help lower blood sugar levels. Stevia is available in liquid and powdered form in the vitamin aisle. You can also grow your own plant, or buy the dried herb. Use Stevia for sweetening plain yogurt, salad dressing, grapefruit, coffee and teas. Stevia may be used in recipes in the place of other sweeteners.

Apple Juice- concentrated apple juice is closer to refined sugar than fresh apple juice. Use freshly juiced, no sugar added, in cooking and concentrated apple juice for baking.

Applesauce- substitute each cup of sugar with one cup of applesauce, reduce the liquid content slightly. Diabetic friendly.

Bananas- has a high natural sugar content. Use to sweeten cereals, baked quick breads such as muffins and pancakes and in the place of jam on a peanut butter sandwich.

Prunes- add prunes to sauces, or use real prune juice in marinades and sauces.

Date sugar- use in combination with other sweeteners in crisps, granola bars or as a topping.  Substitute 1 cup for 1 cup white sugar.  Add hot water to dissolve date sugar before using in batters.  Reduce temperature as date sugar tends to burn easily.

Xylitol- is a sugar alcohol derived from berries or corn cobs that looks and tastes just like sugar. Use Xylitol derived from berries instead of corn. Does not spike blood sugar like honey or refined sugar. Prevents cavities, can be used as an alternative to flouride and has been proven to help ear and sinus infections. Not a great substirute to bake with. Use to sweeten cereal, hot drinks and yogurt. Substitute 1 cup for 1 cup ratio. Available at health food stores or online.

Sucanat- is unrefined sugar cane  juice that is dried until it crystallizes; retaining all the vitamins and minerals of the original product. It is fairly inexpensive. Sucanat is similar to brown sugar in look and taste and sweeter than refined sugar. Use 2/3 cup of Sucanat to 1 cup sugar. Does not melt well; may use in combination with other sweeteners: brown rice, barley malt or agave.

Amasake- Oriental whole grain sweetener made from brown rice. Is thick with pudding-like consistency. Substitute 3 1/2 tablespoons Amazake base for 1 tablespoon honey or 2 tablespoons sugar.  Use in breads, cakes, pancakes, waffles or muffins.

Sugar Cane Juice- use in moderation as you would raw honey.

Black Strap Molasses-  is all the nutrition taken away during the refining process of sugar cane into white sugar. Use in the place of corn syrup.

Turbinado sugar-  is partially processed sugar. Often referred to as raw sugar.

Corn Syrup- has very little nutrition and should be avoided.

Splenda- research has shown Splenda to be an unhealthy sugar alternative. It is toxic and can indirectly lead to weight gain.

Technorati Tags: Agave Nectar, diabetes, diet, effects of, Erythritol, food, fruit juice, health, honey, maple syrup, natural sugar substitutes, NUTRITION, Stevia, sugar

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March Website Review: Rustic Kitchen – johanna
March 1st, 2010 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF

Rustic Kitchen is one of my favorite food sites on seasonal farmstand fresh cooking. Janine, the site creator blogs about restaurants with a farm to table philosophy along with recipe posts using what is on hand. The food is fresh, light and tasty. If you are looking for ideas on how to incorporate healthy into our families fare Rustic Kitchen is the place to start.

Janine says she “grew up eating frozen food from a box.”  Sometime during her career as a public relations exec, in the food and wine industry, she developed a passion for cooking the vibrant foods she was writing about. She decided to attend the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. Armed with a worldwide expertise in flavors and styles of cooking and baking she opened the Rustic Cooking School in her home kitchen featuring family recipes. Janine has worked with food legends Julia Child, Dorie Greenspan, Ina Garten and more. She has featured her food related talents as a guest instructor for major culinary giants like Williams-Sonoma. Her recipes have appeared in numerous magazines in addition to creating recipes and entertaining tips for corporate clients like American Dairy Farmers, Bush’s Beans and Karo to name a few. She feels most passionate about supporting fresh sustainable cuisine from local small farms, “where food is produced by people who care for the earth.”

Technorati Tags: farm fresh, food, healthy alternatives, RECIPES, resturants, sustainable living

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How to Make A Layered Cake – johanna
February 22nd, 2010 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF

My record of making perfectly symmetrical cakes is not very good. Either the bottom sticks to the pan or the layers are lopsided. Fortunately all my children see is a mirage of birthday sugary confection.

The trick of the trade is lots of practice and a few good tips from the pros. The following videos will demonstrate how to slice the layers, put them together and frost the sides and tops.

One note that is not mentioned that I find helpful is to freeze the cake before slicing. It creates less crumb and makes it easier to slice.

Cutting the Cake:

Stacking the Layers:

Frosting Cake Sides:

Frosting Top of Cake:

Frost and Transfer 2-Layer Tier Cake:

Technorati Tags: birthday cakes, cutting a cake, How to frost a 2-layer cake, RECIPES, tutorials

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February the “Month of Love” – johanna
February 15th, 2010 | Filed under: CREATING MEMORIES, THE BOOKSHELF, THE DISH ON PARENTING

Source: “Valentine’s Day Heart” by Claudia Bear

Franklin Convey once said it takes 26 days to make a habit. Child Development therapists tell us when disciplining our children to modify one behavior at a time. I decided to take their approach to my New Year’s resolutions. Rather than become overloaded by all I want to accomplish my quest this year is to pour my heart into one goal each month. In the flavor of “Love” this month my goal is to plant seeds of kindness and grow some love.

Many, many, many years ago I had a roommate I could not stand. In addition to a very long list of irritating habits, she had a deviated septum that made it difficult for her to breathe through her nose quietly. What I remember is that I really started to despise the girl. You have to understand I am a peacemaker. Born in July makes me a Cancer and so I tend to try my best to avoid confrontation. So I set out to seek advice from a wise old man on how to remedy my problem. I was told to love her. Yep, love her. How do you treat someone who grates on your nerves with kindness? Well I will tell you this, it was not easy. At first I made her bed every morning. Then I would grudgingly give her compliments. By the end of 6 weeks she and I became great friends.

It seems in relationships the first line of defense is to ignore the problem or enact revenge in the form of hurtful words or actions. Or in the case above with my friend I would have allowed negative feelings for someone I hardly knew ruin a potential long lasting friendship. I know sometimes we just want to wallow a little in our sorrows. It is ok to feel hurt, even anger and jealousy, but it is not ok to act out on those feelings. Move on. I know, easier said than done. The way I explain it to my five year old is like this; when we harbor negative feelings they begin to grow until they take over our bodies like the Dark Side did to Aniken Skywalker. We have to forgive ourselves, the person we wronged or the person who wronged us and move on so we do not turn to the Dark Side.

I really had to think about what I wanted to achieve by my Love Dare. There is always room to improve when it comes to expressing love but I did not want my goal to be too vague or corny. I had to narrow it down enough that I would remain interested and most of all see the results. The answer came to me the day I was filling out a “Get to Know You” questionnaire for our kindergartner. The last question asked “Name one thing my parents think is especially great about me.” Mason could not grasp what the question meant. More importantly I wondered how often we express to him the things we admire most about him. His answer was “I play with the baby to distract him.” How sad is that? I decided that not only is it important to tell our children daily how much we love them, we also need to help them see how great they really are. The same thought can be applied to all of our relationships, most especially our spouses.

Ways To Give More Love:

• Forgive and Forget: Accidents happen. Our mantra states “That’s ok!” All messes can be cleaned up. Some just take a little more work than others.

• Be positive: No one likes a sour-puss. Nothing is worse than being told you cannot accomplish something. Be supportive of others and their dreams even if you do not share their enthusiasm. If we dream hard enough we can touch the stars or at least feel confident it was a successful failure.

• No Nagging: Nagging is contention and contention creates nothing but negativity. Negativity can lead to animosity and the destruction of a soul. This can be a difficult feat to accomplish with kids. A kind warning and a strict consequence is easier on the ears than harsh criticisms for not following through.

• Compliments Galore: The way to a man’s heart is not food but compliments. It is like their energy source. Fill them up with superhero power and they will dazzle us. Our friends and family could use a good dose as a pick me up too.

Technorati Tags: family, February, friends, kids, Love dare, New Years resolutions, service, Valentine's day

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February Website Review: Instructables.com – johanna
February 1st, 2010 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF, THE CRAFT CLOSET

Instructables is sort of like a combination of YouTube and Ehow.com in one jazzy spot. A few of my favorite posts are how to build your own BBQ-Barrel. Or how to make chainmaille from soda pop tabs. How to make a PVC pipe lego table. Make a chocolate bar mold of Han Solo. I loved the apple martini glass for halloween. There is even a post on how to amuse toddlers.

Instructables offers DIY information, tutorials, guides, a community and contests in the following areas of:

• Art
• Crafts
• Food
• Games
• Green
• Kids
• Home
• Life
• Music
• Offbeat
• Outdoors
• Pets
• Photo
• Ride
• Science
• Tech

The guides are open to the public but you do need to sign up for a free membership to participate.

Technorati Tags: blogs, crafts, DIY, family, green, Halloween, how to make chainmaille, kids, make a BBQ grill, RECIPES, tech

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Chinese New Year - Year of the Tiger – johanna
January 18th, 2010 | Filed under: CREATING MEMORIES, THE BOOKSHELF, THE DISH ON PARENTING

Photo By: Yang Yi, in China Hejin, Shanxi Province

I am not superstitious; yet, I will admit I get a little nervous when salt is spilt. I do not believe in horoscopes; however, they really have my personality pegged. The Chinese baby gender calendar called the gender of each of my three children. The “Chinese Day Of” calendar that reveals the major personality trait based on the day you were born is surprisingly accurate as well. So don’t call me foolish when I realized that this year, 2010 is the year of the tiger. That is me. And I admit there was a second of hopefulness that this year would bring us some luck.

I started this year two weeks behind on everything. News Years Day had me sitting at my desk pondering if I should go ahead and mail out my Christmas cards. I didn’t. I hated starting the year in such disarray. But… it is a new year and I was not about to dwell on the negative. It was after all the first day of the year. Hey, I started the day off right. I ran that morning and we went out on a family outing and later that day I bravely took the kids on a bike ride. There was much to rejoice over. So I cleared my desk and began writing thank you cards. I am THE worst at remembering to write thank you cards. If I do write them I forget to mail them. I decided if I did not master anything else this year I am going to be the best at writing thank you notes.

I am pledging to forgo one larger New Years resolution in favor of smaller monthly goals that are more attainable for my ADD brain. For one month I am going to focus on one goal. If at the end of the month I am a complete failure I will not beat myself up and melt into a year long depression. I will arm myself to work even harder the following month on a new daunting task.

First up is laughter. This year I vow to laugh more. Yes, this was my New Year’s resolution last year and I think I did fairly well. Laughter, as the saying goes, is the best medicine. The tricky part is learning to laugh in the face of adversity. I think we could all use a lesson in putting our best face forward. The point is, I want to teach my kids that life is full of spills and falls and embarrassments and it is ok. If we want to find happiness we need to discover laughter first.

A good hearty laugh can:

• Lighten our mood.

• Reduce stress.

• Lower blood pressure.

• Boost our immune system.

• Stimulate the brain.

• Reduce anxiety, depression and aggression.

• Produce endorphins that stop pain.

• Is a great abdominal workout.

• Increases our energy level.

• Breaks down barriers.

• Help us cope.

Learn to Laugh by:

• Being silly with the kids.

• Being adorable with the significant other.

• Hanging out with people who are genuinely happy. Laughter is contagious.

• Quit trying to act so grown up. (Who made the rule that grownups have to be stiff?)

• Find a reason to celebrate.

• Abandon the negativity.

Laughter, of course, won’t make our problems go away, but it can help us get through them gracefully. How do we pick our way through the briar patch? We slow down. We take the time to enjoy a cup of laughter.

Technorati Tags: family, importance of laughter, kids, learn to laugh, medical benifits, parenting

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The Many Uses Of Vinegar – johanna
January 11th, 2010 | Filed under: KITCHEN SCIENCE, THE BOOKSHELF, THE GARDEN

Photo by Greener Loudoun

Vinegar came into existence, by mere chance, more than 10,000 years ago when a cask of wine had over-reached its expiration date. Centuries later in 1964, Scientist Louis Pasteur, discovered that it was the fermentation of natural sugars into alcohol followed by a secondary fermentation that resulted in the product vinegar.

Throughout the time that vinegar has been known to man the substance has been distilled using ingredients such as molasses, dates, fruits, berries, melons, coconut, honey, beer, maple syrup, potatoes, beets, malt, grains and whey. Consequently, the flavors and varieties of vinegars available are just as vast and unique as the substances it is made from.

Since the first accidental discovery this inexpensive kitchen staple has been used in remarkable capacities. Recorded historical uses of vinegar began as far back as 5,000 BC.
-Babylonians used it as a preservative; flavoring the liquid with herbs and spices.
-Roman legionnaires consumed it as a beverage. In ancient Egypt, -Cleopatra used vinegar as a solvent dissolving pearls in it to win a wager that she could consume a fortune in a single meal.
-The Ancient Physician Hippocrates, discovered its medicinal qualities using it as a stringent and cough remedy.
-The Greeks used it for culinary purposes in pickling vegetables and meats.
-Hannibal, a great general, gained access across the Alps by heating a barrier of boulders and then doused them with vinegar. The boulders cracked and crumbled paving a path for his army to cross through.
-During the American Civil War, vinegar was used to treat scurvy.
-During World War I, vinegar was used to treat wounds.

Today we continue to enjoy the benefits of this ancient sour wine in cleaning, household projects, medicinal remedies, organic agriculture, and the culinary arts. The following tips use ordinary distilled white vinegar. This list is just a sample of the many uses of vinegar. For more fun facts and tips visit VinegarTips.com for 1001 Uses for White Distilled Vinegar.

Photo By: This Old House

CLEANING:

• Make your own cleaning solution by combining 1/2 cup vinegar, 1 cup Ammonia, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 gallon hot water.

• Use vinegar to clean hard water stains from tub/shower stalls. Mix 1/2 cup vinegar and 1 cup fabric softener with 1 quart warm water. Spray glass shower door with furniture polish or lemon oil to prevent build up. For basic cleaning of tubs and sinks wipe with vinegar and then scrub with baking soda. Rinse clean with water.

• Whiten Grout. Scrub grout with a stiff brush dipped in vinegar. For extra fighting power add baking soda to make a paste.
• Remove mineral deposits from showerheads. Pour 1/2 cup of warm water into a resealable plastic bag. Drop in the showerhead, seal and let sit 1 hour. Rinse clean and wipe dry.
• Make the toilet bowl sparkle. Drop 1 denture cleaner tablet into the toilet with 1 cup vinegar. Let sit 30 minutes. Scrub with baking soda.
• Wipe glass doors and windows streak free. Mix 1/2 cup to 1 cup vinegar with 1/2 gallon of water. Pour into a spray bottle.

• Wash no-wax floors. Add 1/2 cup vinegar to a 1/2 gallon warm water.
  Carpet stain removal. (for the removal of fresh non-oily carpet stains) mix 1 teaspoon liquid detergent and 1 teaspoon of vinegar in a pint of warm water. Apply solution to the stain with a soft brush or towel and rub gently. Rinse with a towel moistened with clean water; blot dry. Repeat until the stain is gone. Then dry quickly, using a fan or hair dryer.
• Wipe out water rings on wood furniture by rubbing with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and olive oil. Rub with the grain and polish for the best results.
• Sanitize the refrigerator. Wipe with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Remove odor by placing 1 cup apple cider vinegar in a glass and place it in the refrigerator for a few days.
• Disinfect cutting boards; a nice alternative to using bleach. Wipe with full strength vinegar.
• Shine stainless steel appliances and sinks. Apply vinegar with a soft cloth to remove streaks from stainless steel appliances. (Try in an inconspicuous place first) You can also use lemon oil.

• Keep garbage disposals fresh and clean. Make vinegar cubes by filling an ice tray with a mixture of 1 cup of vinegar and enough water to fill the ice tray; freeze. Run the mixture through the disposal, and then flush it with cold water for a minute or so. The ice sharpens the blades while the vinegar disinfects.
• Dishes and glasses. Pour 1 ½ cup to 2 cups vinegar in the bottom of the dishwasher. Add soap and wash full cycle. Use this technique instead of bleach to fight off the flu.
• Kill Germs in the Laundry. Add 1 tsp salt and 1/4 cup vinegar to wash.
• Fabric Softener. Add 1/4-1/2 cup to fabric softener dispenser. Especially great on baby clothes and towels.
• Deodorant stains. Rub with vinegar and wash as usual. For tough stains make a paste of vinegar and baking soda. Rub into stain. Leave garment in the sun. Wash as usual.

• Wine stains. Remove wine stains from 100% cotton, cotton polyester and permanent press fabrics within 24 hours. Sponge vinegar directly onto the stain and gently rub away the spots. Then clean according to the directions on the manufacturer’s tag.
• Keeping colors fast:
  To hold colors in fabrics, which tend to run, soak them for a few minutes in white distilled vinegar before washing.
  When color dyeing fabrics, add 1 cup of vinegar to the last rinse water to help set the color.
• Cleaning Vintage Lace. Soak the lace in cold water, rinsing it several times. Next, hand-wash with Woolite. Remove stains with equal parts vinegar and hot water.
• Unclog a steam iron. Pour equal amounts of vinegar and water into the iron’s water chamber. Turn to steam and leave the iron on for 5 minutes in an upright position. Then unplug and allow to cool. Any loose particles should come out when you empty the water.
  To remove the burn mark on the iron plate, heat equal parts vinegar and salt in a small pan. Rub the solution on the cooled iron surface.

• Shine brass, copper and pewter. Dissolve 1 teaspoon salt in 1 cup of vinegar. Stir in flour to make a paste. Apply paste to the metals and let stand for about 15 minutes. Rinse with clean warm water and polish until dry.
  Mix olive oil and vinegar in a one-to-one ratio and polish with a soft cloth. Try in an inconspicuous place first.
• Remove the blackened soot on fireplace glass doors. Wash fireplaces with a 50/50 ratio of water and vinegar to. Wipe dry with newspaper.
• Clean Gold Jewelry. Submerge jewelry in one cup apple cider vinegar; let sit 15 minutes. Remove and dry with cloth.
• Clean DVDs. Wipe smudged CDs and DVDs with vinegar. Dry completely before reinserting into player.

Photo By: This Old House

HOUSEHOLD:

• Non-poisonous ant solution. Dab a cotton ball with vinegar. Swab areas the ants trail. Heat a pot of vinegar then pour over ant hills.
• Fruit fly deterrent. Place a bowl filled with 1/2 quart water, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons. apple cider vinegar and a couple drops dish soap.
• Banish stickiness. Remove stickers and price tags from glass, wood and plastic. Dab vinegar on stubborn stickers; scrap surface clean.
• Clean paint brushes by soaking them 30 minutes in hot vinegar. Wash in hot soapy water, cleaning off paint.
• Rust Remover. Soak rusted tools in vinegar for a few days. Rinse with water.

GARDENING:

• Increase soil acidity: In hard water areas, add a cup of vinegar to a gallon of tap water. Great for rhododendrons, gardenias or azaleas.
• Keep flowers fresh longer. Add 2 tablespoons sugar and 2 tablespoons vinegar with 1-quart water. Trim stems and change water every five days.
• Grass and weed control. To kill grass on sidewalks and driveways, pour full strength vinegar on it.
  For weeds, spray full strength vinegar on tops of weeds. Reapply on any new growth until plants have starved.
• Plant food. Mix vinegar and water in a ratio of one part vinegar to 8 parts water. Mix a separate solution of 1 part sugar to 8 parts water. Combine the vinegar and sugar mixtures.

Photo By: AppleCiderVinegarWeightloss.com

CULINARY:

• For burnt on food, submerge the area in vinegar and soak overnight. Clean with hot soapy water.
• To control weight swap out creamy salad dressings for a sprinkle of vinegar. Use flavors such as Champagne, Balsamic, Red Wine and seasoned.
• Flavor soups and stews using a tablespoon of your favorite vinegar.
• Meat tenderizer. Combine 1/2 cup of your favorite vinegar to 1 cup of bouillon or 1/4 cup oil. Rub into meat; let sit two hours.
• For sweeter more tender fish soak fish in vinegar and water before cooking. Add 1 tablespoon vinegar to water when poaching fish to keep it from crumbling.
• Add a little vinegar to the water when poaching or boiling eggs. It helps to keep the whites together.
• Prevent oxidation of potatoes. Peeled potatoes left sitting begin to oxidize and turn dark. Add a teaspoon of white distilled vinegar or cider vinegar to the pot of water.
• Fruit and vegetable wash. Freshen and wash vegetables by adding 2 tablespoons vinegar to 1 pint water; wash, then rinse thoroughly.

• Before frying doughnuts, add 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar to hot oil to prevent doughnuts soaking up extra grease. Use caution when adding the vinegar to the hot oil.

Photo By: Planet Green

MISCELLANEOUS TIPS:

• Remove fruit or berry stains from your hands by cleaning them with vinegar.
• To keep pets free of fleas and ticks mix 1teaspoon vinegar to each quart of drinking water. This solution is for a forty pound animal, Always get the approval of your pets doctor before trying natural home remedies.
• Smelly dog odor. Rinse the dog with fresh water. Saturate the dogs coat with a mixture of 1 cup vinegar and 2 gallons water. Do not rinse. Dry completely.
• Potty Accidents for both people and animals. Sprinkle area with vinegar. Wait a few minutes and sponge from the center outward. Blot up with a dry cloth. Repeat if necessary. (Test carpet in an inconspicuous place before trying)

• Frosted windows:
  For those rare winter mornings when there is frost on the car, wipe the windows the night before with a solution of one part water to three parts white distilled vinegar. They won’t frost over.
• Freshen lunch boxes by dampening a piece of bread with vinegar and enclose in the lunch box overnight.
• Freshen the kitchen. Odors can linger after cooking meats or with oil. Simmer an equal mix of water and vinegar until smell dissolves.

MEDICAL:

• Clean Calcium Deposits and Sanitize Humidifiers. Heat 1 ¾ vinegar. Pour vinegar into reservoir and replace cap. Let sit for 1 hour. Remove vinegar. Reservoir should be clean and calcium free. Contact manufacturer before cleaning with this method or review manufacturer’s directions.
• Soothe a bee or jellyfish sting. Douse with vinegar to soothe irritation and relieve itching. (You can also use tobacco. Make a paste with tobacco from a cigar and water. Tape in place over hole.)
  Relieve sunburn. Lightly rub white distilled or cider vinegar on area. Reapply as needed.
• For other types of burns, apply ice-cold vinegar right away to prevent blisters.
• Relieve dry and itchy skin such as Psoriasis. Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar to your bath water. (A compress of seaweed works well too) For dry scalp, after shampooing, rinse with a solution of 1/2 cup vinegar and 2 cups of warm water.

• Stop Itching. Apply a paste of vinegar and cornstarch. Keep on until itch disappears.
• Toenail fungus. Soak toes in a solution of vinegar and water, using 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water, 15 minutes per day.
• Soften callused cracked Feet. Combine 1 cup vinegar to 2 gallons warm water. Soak feet for 45 minutes then use a pumice stone or file to remove dead skin from heels and callused areas of feet.
• Wart Remover. Mix warm water with 1 cup vinegar. Soak area for 20 minutes everyday until wart disappears.
• Soothe a sore throat. There are several ways to do this. Put a teaspoon of vinegar in a glass of water; gargle, then swallow. Mix 1 cup hot water, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon vinegar, gargle then drink. (Mix 1/2 tsp salt to 2 cups water, add 1 tablespoon peroxide. Heat in the microwave until warm. Gargle, do not drink.)

• Treat sinus infections and chest colds. Add 1/4 cup or more vinegar to a vaporizer. Add water as needed per unit instructions.
• Chest congestion. Inhale a vapor mist from a steaming pot containing water and several spoonfuls of vinegar.
• Calm a queasy stomach. If you can stomach the smell and taste try downing some apple cider vinegar in water, with a little honey.

Photo By: My Little Cottage in the Making

FUN KIDS STUFF:

• Coloring Easter eggs. Mix 1 teaspoon of vinegar with each 1/2 cup hot water; add food coloring.
• Naked eggs. Magically remove the shell of an egg. This project takes two days to complete.
  Place eggs in a container so the eggs are not touching. Add enough vinegar to cover the eggs. Cover the container, put in the refrigerator and let sit for 24 hours. Use a slotted spoon to carefully scoop out the eggs. Dump out the vinegar. Put the eggs back in the container and cover with fresh vinegar. Leave the eggs in the refrigerator for another 24 hours. Scoop the eggs out again and rinse carefully. Throw away any eggs with broken membranes. Now you should have egg without a shell.
• Volcano. Make the cone of the volcano by mixing 6 cups flour, 2 cups salt, 4 tablespoons cooking oil and 2 cups of water. Mix until smooth and firm. Stand a soda bottle in a baking pan and mold the dough around it into a volcano shape. Do not cover the hole or drop dough into it. Fill the bottle most of the way with warm water and a few drops of red food coloring. Add 6 drops of detergent to the bottle contents. Add 2 tablespoons baking soda to the liquid. Slowly pour vinegar into the bottle.
• Berry ink pens. 1/2 cup ripe berries, 1/2 teaspoon vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt and feather.
  Fit a strainer over a bowl. Place berries in strainer. Using the back of a wooden spoon, crush the berries against the strainer. Keep pressing until most of the juice has been strained out and only pulp remains. Add the salt and vinegar to the berry juice. If the berry ink is too thick, add a tablespoon of water. Store in a baby food jar sealed tightly. Cut the tip of the feather at an angle. Cut a slit in the tip. Dip the tip into the berry ink; dap on paper towel. Repeat as needed.
• Magic Potion. Pour 2 tablespoons vinegar into a shallow bowl or cup set on a baking sheet. Add 1 tablespoon baking soda.
  Hot Air Balloon. Pour 4 tablespoons vinegar into a bottle. Pour 2 tablespoons baking soda into a balloon that isn’t blown up (make a siphon out of cone of paper). Without tipping the baking soda into the vinegar, put the balloon over the top of the container. Use your hand or a rubber band to hold the seal. Jiggle the balloon so the baking soda is dumped in.

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January Website Review: Chica and Jo – johanna
January 1st, 2010 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF

Chica and Jo is a website that offers tips for quick, easy and affordable home solutions and fun crafts. I stumbled upon it a few months ago looking for zoo animal ideas for the little preschoolers I teach. Once I started to look around I was hooked.

The site was started by two friends Chica and Jo with the goal to inspire. They enjoy a challenge and so welcome emails from their readers asking advice or sharing ideas on everything from entertaining to organization to kids and crafts.

Some of the subjects you can expect to find on the Chica and Jo website includes: crafts for adults and kids, sewing projects, green living, organization helps, using what you have to save money, shopping and coupons, general tips and advice, decorating inspiration, cooking, gift ideas, parties and entertaining know how, holidays and travel.

Some of my favorite posts I have noted are “making a tracing box with Christmas lights“, making purses from kids sweaters and the chili cookoff party invites just to name a few.

Technorati Tags: chica and jo, coupons, crafts, decorating, entertaining, green living, kids, organization, RECIPES, sewing

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Gas Price Travel Guide – johanna
December 14th, 2009 | Filed under: THE BOOKSHELF

Photo by: The Brooklyn Nomad

Thinking about traveling this holiday season? Check out the AAA Fuel Cost Calculator. The price guide displays the current average gas prices across the country by state. To figure out how much a trip would cost simply input the starting city, destination, car make, year and model. The site calculates the estimated miles, the gallons used and cost of fuel.

Technorati Tags: AAA fuel guide, price of gas by state, travel guide

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