Cinnamon
Lund University in Sweden states that Cinnamon contains methylhydroxy chalcone polymer, a plant compound that activates insulin receptors on cell membranes to ensure blood sugar remains at an energizing constant. One teaspoon of cinnamon with a high carb food can decrease the pep-zapping blood sugar spikes by 56%.
Two teaspoons of cinnamon provides 40% of your daily dose of manganese. That mineral helps activate prolidase, an enzyme critical to the formation of collagen.
A dash of cinnamon per day provides a defense to Urinary Tract Infections. Cinnamon has an antimicrobial oil, cinnamaldehyde, that eradicates 99.5% of E. coli bacteria, the leading cause of UTI's. It also kills Candida albicans, the bug behind most yeast infections.
A pinch of cinnamon will improve memory, attention span, and the speed of visual-motor response. Two compounds in Cinnamon, cinnamylacetate and cinnamylalcohol, optimize blood circulation to the brain.
************************
Dried Plums
Eating 10 of these daily can improve artery helath. The Plums' pectin,blocks the formation of artery-hardening LDL (the bad cholesterol).
*************************
Coffee
Researchers in Sweden have discovered that the caffeine in coffee hampers the growth of abnormal cells. Two or three cups a day may prevent breast cancer. Additionally, coffee's antioxidants help lower your risk of Type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease.
**************************
Wines
According to Dutch researchers, one 5 oz serving of white wine helps remove "bad" LDL Cholesterol from artery walls. Red wine helps to fight heart disease. Drinking more than one 5 oz serving per day will not increase the benefits, it will, however, decrease the health benefits.
***************************
Thyroid problem
This information that I took from an article I read, had Harvard Medical School as it's "expert".
If you have 3 or more of these symptoms, you may have a sluggish thyroid. Discuss with your doctor and ask for a Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)test.
1. Feel exhausted by bedtime, but have trouble sleeping
2. Usually wake up tired, no matter how long you've slept
3. Often feel chilly, even when others don't
4. Struggle with anxiety
5. Have trouble losing weight
6. Often have sore muscles and/or achy joints
7. Struggle with allergies, infertility, or digestive problems
8. Feel unfocused or forgetful
9. Have dry hair or skin and /or problems with eczema
10.Prone to depression or blue moods
11.Have thinning hair
12.Tried to treat depression with antidepressants or menopause symptoms with estrogen, but they didn't help
The thyroid slowdown can cause many problems. Keeping your thyroid working at peak condition boosts your metabolism, which helps to strengthen bones and muscles, cut your risk of heart disease, dodge weight gain, sleep better, diminish depression, and a plethora of other benefits.
More than 25% of Americans get too little Iodine, which is a mineral your thyroid needs to produce adequate amounts of the hormones T3 and T4 which fuel fat burn by controlling the rate of your metabolism. The only good dietary sources are iodized table salt and sea food. Sea salt and the salt in processed foods don't contain T3 and T4.
Broccoli, Kale, Cabbage, Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts contain goitrogens, natural compounds that slow thyroid function. However, the goitrogens are deactivated by heat, so steaming, boiling, broiling or roasting these veggies lets you enjoy their health perks without slowing your thyroid.
Soy is a thyroid suppressing agent. Although it is known for it's ability to reduce heart disease risk and to ease hot flashes, it also contains isoflavones that slow weight loss by reducing levels of thyroid hormones. Limit daily use of soy to 9 oz of soy milk, 5 oz of tofu, OR 3 tsp of soy sauce or miso daily.
Quench your thirst with bottled water instead of fluoridated tap water. As little as 2.5 mg of fluoride daily can suppress thyroid function.
***************************
Miscellaneous
Adding 1/2c pureed cauliflower to your mac and cheese (or any other dish) lowers a non-smokers risk of lung cancer by 30% and a smokers risk by 69% of contracting it.
Feta cheese, made from goat's milk, helps prevent iron deficiency, a leading cause of fatigue. Cows milk, according to the study at the niversity of Granada in Spain, does not. Without adequate iron, you can't get enough oxygen to your muscles... causing fatigue.
Apricots, a member of the rose family, contain beta carotene which helps pevent the buildup of plaque deposits in arteries. The body converts it into Vitamin A which protects the eyes from sun damage. Dried apricots contain nearly twice as much as the fresh ones.
Dropping just 7.7 lbs lowers the risk of high blood pressure by 50%.
Laughing causes the inner lining of blood vessels to relax, which improves blood flow. Watching a comedy for just 15 min can improve blood flow by 22%.
Lower cholesterol with Hummus. The chickpeas used to make hummus are loaded with artery-clearing phytochemicals and fiber that reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol.
Eating onions frequently can lower your risk of heart disease by 20%. They provide an antioxidant, Quercetin, that helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
***********************
To plan healthy meals, check out the Dept of Agriculture's free menu planning service at My Pyramid
**************************
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Household Cleaning and Cleaners
Baking Soda is an inexpensive gentle abrasive for scouring kitchen counters, sinks, bathtubs, etc. The alkaline action quickly neutralizes the acidity of odor-causing molecules to eliminate sour smells also. Sprinkle the Baking Soda directly on what you are cleaning and rub with a damp sponge.
White Vinegar and water is the best glass cleaner and far less expensive to use. Mix 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle and get to cleaning your windows. The vinegar evaporates quickly and leaves no visible residue on your glass. I also use old newspaper to wipe off the vinegar/water, it seems to help clean better but I have no idea why.
For wood furniture, mix 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice and 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil to use for your polish. The citric acid cuts through buildup and helps the oil penetrate the wood, bringing out its natural glow.
For degreasing kitchen cabinets, add 1/4 cup of lemon juice to 1 quart of hot water then wash the surface.
To kill cutting board germs, run a slice of lemon over the board's surface to disinfect it, then wash as normal. Bacteria will be broken down in a flash by the citric acid in the lemon.
To help lift set-in stains in clothing, mix 3 Tablespoons of vinegar, 2 Tablespoons of liquid detergent, and 1 quart of warm water. Spritz onto the stain and let sit for 5 minutes, then launder. Warm water softens the fibers as the vinegar breaks down the stain particles. The loosened particles will bond to the soap molecules and rinse off in the washer.
Erase crayon marks from a wall using a dab of toothpaste and a damp cloth.
Keep your chrome fixtures shiny using a dab of toothpaste and a soft cloth. Water spots will disappear and the chrome will be polished.
To remove water marks from wood, massage 1 teaspoon of petroleum jelly into each stain using your fingers. Leave overnight and buff with a dry cloth.
To shine your silver, place tarnished utensils in a sink lined with foil (shiny side up). Fill with hot water, 1/4 cup of salt, and 1/4 cup of baking soda. Soak for 3 minutes. Dry with a soft cloth.
To remove pet stains from the carpet, mix one 16 oz bottle of hydrogen peroxide, 2 Tablespoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap in a mixing bowl. Saturate the spot with the solution and rub with a sponge. The oxidizing mix breaks up the uric acid crystals and neutralizes the smell.
To clear a clogged drain, drop 3 denture-cleaning tablets into the sink drain followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The drain should clear in a bout 10 minutes.
Cleaning the toilet bowl. Pour 1 1-liter bottle of coke into the bowl and close the lid. An hour later, flush the toilet and your stains should have disappeared.
To clean your coffee maker, put 1 denture cleaning tablet in the coffee filter holder, fill with water like making a pot of coffee, turn the coffee maker on and let it cycle. I ran another potful of water through the coffee maker to make sure it was clean coming out.
If you want to de-germ your home, check out the eco-friendly tips at Health.com
Happy cleaning!!
White Vinegar and water is the best glass cleaner and far less expensive to use. Mix 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle and get to cleaning your windows. The vinegar evaporates quickly and leaves no visible residue on your glass. I also use old newspaper to wipe off the vinegar/water, it seems to help clean better but I have no idea why.
For wood furniture, mix 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice and 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil to use for your polish. The citric acid cuts through buildup and helps the oil penetrate the wood, bringing out its natural glow.
For degreasing kitchen cabinets, add 1/4 cup of lemon juice to 1 quart of hot water then wash the surface.
To kill cutting board germs, run a slice of lemon over the board's surface to disinfect it, then wash as normal. Bacteria will be broken down in a flash by the citric acid in the lemon.
To help lift set-in stains in clothing, mix 3 Tablespoons of vinegar, 2 Tablespoons of liquid detergent, and 1 quart of warm water. Spritz onto the stain and let sit for 5 minutes, then launder. Warm water softens the fibers as the vinegar breaks down the stain particles. The loosened particles will bond to the soap molecules and rinse off in the washer.
Erase crayon marks from a wall using a dab of toothpaste and a damp cloth.
Keep your chrome fixtures shiny using a dab of toothpaste and a soft cloth. Water spots will disappear and the chrome will be polished.
To remove water marks from wood, massage 1 teaspoon of petroleum jelly into each stain using your fingers. Leave overnight and buff with a dry cloth.
To shine your silver, place tarnished utensils in a sink lined with foil (shiny side up). Fill with hot water, 1/4 cup of salt, and 1/4 cup of baking soda. Soak for 3 minutes. Dry with a soft cloth.
To remove pet stains from the carpet, mix one 16 oz bottle of hydrogen peroxide, 2 Tablespoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap in a mixing bowl. Saturate the spot with the solution and rub with a sponge. The oxidizing mix breaks up the uric acid crystals and neutralizes the smell.
To clear a clogged drain, drop 3 denture-cleaning tablets into the sink drain followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The drain should clear in a bout 10 minutes.
Cleaning the toilet bowl. Pour 1 1-liter bottle of coke into the bowl and close the lid. An hour later, flush the toilet and your stains should have disappeared.
To clean your coffee maker, put 1 denture cleaning tablet in the coffee filter holder, fill with water like making a pot of coffee, turn the coffee maker on and let it cycle. I ran another potful of water through the coffee maker to make sure it was clean coming out.
If you want to de-germ your home, check out the eco-friendly tips at Health.com
Happy cleaning!!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Ayurvedic medicine
Ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine practiced in India and practiced in other parts of the world as "alternative medicine". The word Ayurvedia is translated to mean "the science of life", it is believed to have been around since the 1st millennium BCE.
This information was found in a popular ladies magazine, and, as always, talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements.
Guggul - Studies show that the resin from this tree lowers the "bad" cholesterol by 22% and improves the "good" cholesterol by 35% within 3 months. It also stimulates thyroid function, which causes a boost in metabolism. It is an ingredient in many of today's weight loss products. Recommended does is 25 mg 3 times per day.
Boswellia - Known as the Indian Frankincense, this herb is study-proven to reduce joint pain and swelling as well as any OTC pain reliever. It's anti-inflammatory compounds prevent the breakdown of joint tissue and cartilage that leads to arthritis. It can reduce pain, stiffness and swelling in current arthritis within just 2 weeks.
Tulsi - Also known as Holy Basil, it is NOT the basil in your spice rack. It is proven to cure blue moods and even depression by boosting the production of serotonin and dopamine. It works within 72 hours. Drink a cup or two of Tulsi tea daily.
Neem - The flowering Indian tree has powerful and anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and antiseptic properties that kill bacteria on contact. It is as effective at preventing plaque and gum disease as its chemical counterpart and can even reverse periodontal disease. It is found in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes.
Ashwagandha - This leafy Indian shrub has been used for relief of anxiety for more than 4,000 years. It lowers blood levels of Cortisol and Adrenaline, which are two stress hormones, and boosts production of GABA in the brain, which is a calming brain chemical. In a Swedish study it found that taking 200mg before bed relieved insomnia in more than 80% of the women in the study.
Turmeric - A new study by Columbia University showed that eating this curry spice can prevent Type 2 diabetes. The active ingredient, Cur cumin, improves glucose and blood sugar levels and reduces the inflammation in the fat and liver cells that can trigger the disease. It also causes weight and fat loss without dieting. To get the benefit, just add a pinch of turmeric to your food each day. It is better absorbed when you eat it in the same meal with black pepper.
Shankhpushpi - (shank-a-push-pee) is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries in India to boost focus and ease anxiety. It works by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the bloodstream. It improves energy up to 91% and concentration up to 70% within 6 weeks. It helps induce sleep an decrease nervousness about as well as Valium. Recommended dose is two 275mg capsules daily.
Mangosteen - The dark rind of the Mangosteen is loaded with xanthones, antioxidants that lower cholesterol, block cell inflammation and kill bacteria. They are being studied as a cancer cure. Try mangosteen juice or take one 500 mg capsule daily.
This information was found in a popular ladies magazine, and, as always, talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements.
Guggul - Studies show that the resin from this tree lowers the "bad" cholesterol by 22% and improves the "good" cholesterol by 35% within 3 months. It also stimulates thyroid function, which causes a boost in metabolism. It is an ingredient in many of today's weight loss products. Recommended does is 25 mg 3 times per day.
Boswellia - Known as the Indian Frankincense, this herb is study-proven to reduce joint pain and swelling as well as any OTC pain reliever. It's anti-inflammatory compounds prevent the breakdown of joint tissue and cartilage that leads to arthritis. It can reduce pain, stiffness and swelling in current arthritis within just 2 weeks.
Tulsi - Also known as Holy Basil, it is NOT the basil in your spice rack. It is proven to cure blue moods and even depression by boosting the production of serotonin and dopamine. It works within 72 hours. Drink a cup or two of Tulsi tea daily.
Neem - The flowering Indian tree has powerful and anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and antiseptic properties that kill bacteria on contact. It is as effective at preventing plaque and gum disease as its chemical counterpart and can even reverse periodontal disease. It is found in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes.
Ashwagandha - This leafy Indian shrub has been used for relief of anxiety for more than 4,000 years. It lowers blood levels of Cortisol and Adrenaline, which are two stress hormones, and boosts production of GABA in the brain, which is a calming brain chemical. In a Swedish study it found that taking 200mg before bed relieved insomnia in more than 80% of the women in the study.
Turmeric - A new study by Columbia University showed that eating this curry spice can prevent Type 2 diabetes. The active ingredient, Cur cumin, improves glucose and blood sugar levels and reduces the inflammation in the fat and liver cells that can trigger the disease. It also causes weight and fat loss without dieting. To get the benefit, just add a pinch of turmeric to your food each day. It is better absorbed when you eat it in the same meal with black pepper.
Shankhpushpi - (shank-a-push-pee) is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries in India to boost focus and ease anxiety. It works by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the bloodstream. It improves energy up to 91% and concentration up to 70% within 6 weeks. It helps induce sleep an decrease nervousness about as well as Valium. Recommended dose is two 275mg capsules daily.
Mangosteen - The dark rind of the Mangosteen is loaded with xanthones, antioxidants that lower cholesterol, block cell inflammation and kill bacteria. They are being studied as a cancer cure. Try mangosteen juice or take one 500 mg capsule daily.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Health and Beauty
The scent of the Polynesian flower Ylang-Ylang is reported to have an uplifting, relaxing effect on the subjects who sniffed the flower. You can buy the essential oil at healthfood stores. Put a drop on a cotton ball and when you're feeling a bit down.. take a sniff!
The oil of the Tiare Flower, a gardenia native to Tahiti, called Monoi is reported to be more effective than three of the commerical lotions for softer, firmer skin with fewer fine lines. Pure Monoi oil is available at health food stores or at monoi.org
The root of the South Pacific Kaval has been used for centuries to calm the nervous system and induce sleep. According to Health Myths Exposed, the root has kavalactones that relax the nervous system while boosting levels of the natural antidepressant dopamine. It can be found at drug, health food and grocery stores.
The Polynesian Noni, is a yellow-green fruit with white flesh that has been used by them as a healing fruit for more than 2000 years. It is packed iwth minerals, antioxidants and enxymes. It is said to improve digestion, detoxify the body and boost energy and immunity. It is sold at health-food stores.
Thousands of years before Hops were used in beer, the Irish brewed the flowers as a tea and even stuffed their pillows with them to help them sleep. Scientists have pinpointed natural sedatives in hops that do ease anxiety. Although you find hops in beers, you can get a greater use of their effects without the alcohol, in capsule form, at a health store. (According to legend, hops were also said to improve psychic ability.)
The Celtic cure for joint pain, including arthritis, is nettles. The Druids ate the nettle leaves for relief, but you can get them in capsule form at a health store.
The sacred Druid herb, Hawthorn, is packed with heart-healthy bioflavonoids and studies prove it boosts blood and oxygen tothe heart and lowers blood pressure. It can also destroy deadly blood clots on contact. You can find it in health food stores.
Cut your Cold and Flu short by taking Sambucol Black Elderberry Extract. The elderberry has Anthocyanins, antioxidants that eliminate virus particles. Again, available at health stores.
Irish Moss - once considered so sacred that only Celtic priests were allowed to gather it! It protects teh digestive tract witha coating that reduces inflammation, gas, bloating and heartburn. Its high in Iodine and Vitamin B which regulates thyroid function, boosts metabolism, and energy. Find it in tea form or capsules at Health food stores. Celtic legend say the moss was placed under rugs to ensure a steady flow of luck and money into the home!
I have used the Herbal Healer website frequently when I want to get any oils, capsules, creams etc and their prices are pretty good. Their product seems to be better than alot of places you find online.
The oil of the Tiare Flower, a gardenia native to Tahiti, called Monoi is reported to be more effective than three of the commerical lotions for softer, firmer skin with fewer fine lines. Pure Monoi oil is available at health food stores or at monoi.org
The root of the South Pacific Kaval has been used for centuries to calm the nervous system and induce sleep. According to Health Myths Exposed, the root has kavalactones that relax the nervous system while boosting levels of the natural antidepressant dopamine. It can be found at drug, health food and grocery stores.
The Polynesian Noni, is a yellow-green fruit with white flesh that has been used by them as a healing fruit for more than 2000 years. It is packed iwth minerals, antioxidants and enxymes. It is said to improve digestion, detoxify the body and boost energy and immunity. It is sold at health-food stores.
Thousands of years before Hops were used in beer, the Irish brewed the flowers as a tea and even stuffed their pillows with them to help them sleep. Scientists have pinpointed natural sedatives in hops that do ease anxiety. Although you find hops in beers, you can get a greater use of their effects without the alcohol, in capsule form, at a health store. (According to legend, hops were also said to improve psychic ability.)
The Celtic cure for joint pain, including arthritis, is nettles. The Druids ate the nettle leaves for relief, but you can get them in capsule form at a health store.
The sacred Druid herb, Hawthorn, is packed with heart-healthy bioflavonoids and studies prove it boosts blood and oxygen tothe heart and lowers blood pressure. It can also destroy deadly blood clots on contact. You can find it in health food stores.
Cut your Cold and Flu short by taking Sambucol Black Elderberry Extract. The elderberry has Anthocyanins, antioxidants that eliminate virus particles. Again, available at health stores.
Irish Moss - once considered so sacred that only Celtic priests were allowed to gather it! It protects teh digestive tract witha coating that reduces inflammation, gas, bloating and heartburn. Its high in Iodine and Vitamin B which regulates thyroid function, boosts metabolism, and energy. Find it in tea form or capsules at Health food stores. Celtic legend say the moss was placed under rugs to ensure a steady flow of luck and money into the home!
I have used the Herbal Healer website frequently when I want to get any oils, capsules, creams etc and their prices are pretty good. Their product seems to be better than alot of places you find online.
More helpful Websites
To help cut your grocery bills a little more, it is helpful to log in to specific companies websites and you will often find extra savings coupons, rebates, and the like. Just a few of them are:
Bayer
Betty Crocker/General Mills
Colgate-Palmolive
Del Monte
Gorton's seafood
Iams Pet Food
Proctor & Gamble
Quaker Oats
Major pharmacy chains frequently offer products at below cost to draw shoppers into their stores, generally through rebates. Their websites frequently have in-store coupons available too. Here's a few:
CVS
Rite Aid
Walgreens
Several retailers offer attractive rebates and coupons also. Here's a few:
Ace Hardware
Bed, Bath and Beyond
The Home Depot
Lowes
Staples
True Value Hardware
Now for some helpful sites for information, employment, credit, mental illness, prescription drugs, and all kinds of stuff:
Greener Lawns
Faster job search
Small Businesses, state by state listings
Online Reference Directory
Smarter Credit
Disability Network
Free Birthday Treats
Partnership for Prescription Assistance
Mental Health America
National Mental Health Consumer's Self-Help Clearinghouse
Depression and Bi-Polar Support Alliance
Money Aisle is 108 banks participating to offer the best rate on FDIC insured CD's.
Earth Calendar to find celebrations by date, country, religion, etc
Smarter Job Searches
Successful Entrepreneuring
Travel Planning
Bargain Deals
Tracking down people
Run a background check
Run a background check II
Free college and university courses
Samples and Giveaways lists - More samples and giveaways lists - and one more site
Price Ambush
Bread for less
Recycled electronic goodies!
Flat Screen TV
PDA
Laptop Computers
GPS Systems
I guess that's enough websites to keep you busy for awhile!
Bayer
Betty Crocker/General Mills
Colgate-Palmolive
Del Monte
Gorton's seafood
Iams Pet Food
Proctor & Gamble
Quaker Oats
Major pharmacy chains frequently offer products at below cost to draw shoppers into their stores, generally through rebates. Their websites frequently have in-store coupons available too. Here's a few:
CVS
Rite Aid
Walgreens
Several retailers offer attractive rebates and coupons also. Here's a few:
Ace Hardware
Bed, Bath and Beyond
The Home Depot
Lowes
Staples
True Value Hardware
Now for some helpful sites for information, employment, credit, mental illness, prescription drugs, and all kinds of stuff:
Greener Lawns
Faster job search
Small Businesses, state by state listings
Online Reference Directory
Smarter Credit
Disability Network
Free Birthday Treats
Partnership for Prescription Assistance
Mental Health America
National Mental Health Consumer's Self-Help Clearinghouse
Depression and Bi-Polar Support Alliance
Money Aisle is 108 banks participating to offer the best rate on FDIC insured CD's.
Earth Calendar to find celebrations by date, country, religion, etc
Smarter Job Searches
Successful Entrepreneuring
Travel Planning
Bargain Deals
Tracking down people
Run a background check
Run a background check II
Free college and university courses
Samples and Giveaways lists - More samples and giveaways lists - and one more site
Price Ambush
Bread for less
Recycled electronic goodies!
Flat Screen TV
PDA
Laptop Computers
GPS Systems
I guess that's enough websites to keep you busy for awhile!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Making the Most of your Garden Area
In these tough economic times and the surge of "green" thinking individuals, the garden is coming back to life in full force. Of course, if you don't have a few acres on which to plant, you need to think about how you want to make the most of the space you do have.
Your garden spot should be in full sun at least 6 hours a day, have good drainage, have protection from high winds, have a water source close by for convenience, and good soil quality. If you live in an apartment, condo, or town home, you might want to consider pots for your garden, but be sure to check on your HOA rules about these things.
It is normally most cost effective to start your garden from seed and then transplant into your garden space when the fear of frost is gone and the young plants can survive in the open area. You can always buy bedding plants to transplanting also.
Decide on what you want to grow in your garden. What veggies does your family enjoy eating the most? Of those veggies, which ones are the most expensive to buy in the store or farmer's market? How much time are you and your family going to be able to devote to caring for the garden? What kinds of critters live in your area? Seriously consider fencing in your garden. Not only will it keep the neighborhood pets and various wild pests, like rabbits, out of the garden, it can be used as a trellis for your vine plants like beans, peas, tomatoes and the like that need support. I trellis'ed my cucumber's last year and that worked out very nice and made it easier to find the cucumbers!
Ok, now you've decided what you want to grow. Now, diagram the space you have available and start mapping out your planting strategy. Tallest plants you'll want to plant on the North end of your garden to avoid shading the smaller plants. Pay attention to what the directions say for the amount of space needed for your plants to flourish. Also, you need to make sure there is room for YOU to get between the rows easily for pulling weeds and harvesting your crop. Consider raised beds for your garden, they are much easier on the back and knees for weeding and harvesting!
Container gardening is great and has more opportunity for the more artistic souls wanting to grow their own food! You can use almost anything for your container garden! Old-fashioned wash tubs, tin buckets, terra-cotta planters, all kinds of things.... just look around your yard or house! Personally, I had some leftover cement blocks, the kind that are about 8" tall and have two large holes in them. I used them for planting herbs and it worked out quite well! I also had some tires, no rims, to get rid of, but instead, terraced them in front of my country home and filled them with dirt and flowering plants. It looks really great! (Of course, the house is in the country not in Beverly Hills.. would probably not looks so nifty there!) One note, don't plant food you're going to eat into empty tires. Doing so will poison your food.
You can also increase the duration of your yield by leaving space for a later planting. Stagger your planting a few weeks or even a month apart, if at all possible.
Gardening doesn't have to be limited to just the summer either. With a little extra care, your garden can last well into fall and winter months. Row covers trap the warmth that radiates up from the earth much like the way that a cloud cover holds temperatures and prevents frost from forming. Cardboard boxes and fruit baskets can provide shelter to individual plants, while old sheets, blankets, and heavy plastic tarps will protect entire rows of plants to be removed after the sun has warmed the air outside. For a cold frame, just arrange straw bales into a rectangular shape around a garden bed and lay windows across the top to form an enclosed and insulated growing area.
Late summer is a great time to sow cold-tolerant vegetables that will flourish in the fall and endure cold weather without complaint. Some hardy vegetables would be kale, spinach, collards, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, kohlrabi, turnips, cabbages, oriental greens, rutabagas, and some varieties of lettuce.
A few vegetables will survive on their own even through bitterly cold conditions. Some of these would be leeks, kale, and collards. Fall planted garlic and shallots will develop strong root systems in the fall, spend the winter underground, and then spring up at the earliest signs of the arrival of spring.
Many root crops can be left in the garden protected with a thick layer of shredded leaves or straw. Beets, carrots, turnips, rutabagas, and parsnips can be left in the ground and you can continue havesting as needed, provided that the ground doesn’t freeze and prevent digging. However, finish harvesting before spring arrives, once the roots resume growing and switch into seed production mode, the quality of the food will diminish.
The options are endless for the gardener and only limited by your imagination.... well... and your cash! LOL Do your homework, make a plan, and get the soil prepared before the season gets here and you're sure to have a wonderful garden.
ref: magnoliatreeearthcenter.org
ref: thegardenhelper.com
ref: containergardeningtips.com
ref: gardening.wsu.edu
Your garden spot should be in full sun at least 6 hours a day, have good drainage, have protection from high winds, have a water source close by for convenience, and good soil quality. If you live in an apartment, condo, or town home, you might want to consider pots for your garden, but be sure to check on your HOA rules about these things.
It is normally most cost effective to start your garden from seed and then transplant into your garden space when the fear of frost is gone and the young plants can survive in the open area. You can always buy bedding plants to transplanting also.
Decide on what you want to grow in your garden. What veggies does your family enjoy eating the most? Of those veggies, which ones are the most expensive to buy in the store or farmer's market? How much time are you and your family going to be able to devote to caring for the garden? What kinds of critters live in your area? Seriously consider fencing in your garden. Not only will it keep the neighborhood pets and various wild pests, like rabbits, out of the garden, it can be used as a trellis for your vine plants like beans, peas, tomatoes and the like that need support. I trellis'ed my cucumber's last year and that worked out very nice and made it easier to find the cucumbers!
Ok, now you've decided what you want to grow. Now, diagram the space you have available and start mapping out your planting strategy. Tallest plants you'll want to plant on the North end of your garden to avoid shading the smaller plants. Pay attention to what the directions say for the amount of space needed for your plants to flourish. Also, you need to make sure there is room for YOU to get between the rows easily for pulling weeds and harvesting your crop. Consider raised beds for your garden, they are much easier on the back and knees for weeding and harvesting!
Container gardening is great and has more opportunity for the more artistic souls wanting to grow their own food! You can use almost anything for your container garden! Old-fashioned wash tubs, tin buckets, terra-cotta planters, all kinds of things.... just look around your yard or house! Personally, I had some leftover cement blocks, the kind that are about 8" tall and have two large holes in them. I used them for planting herbs and it worked out quite well! I also had some tires, no rims, to get rid of, but instead, terraced them in front of my country home and filled them with dirt and flowering plants. It looks really great! (Of course, the house is in the country not in Beverly Hills.. would probably not looks so nifty there!) One note, don't plant food you're going to eat into empty tires. Doing so will poison your food.
You can also increase the duration of your yield by leaving space for a later planting. Stagger your planting a few weeks or even a month apart, if at all possible.
Gardening doesn't have to be limited to just the summer either. With a little extra care, your garden can last well into fall and winter months. Row covers trap the warmth that radiates up from the earth much like the way that a cloud cover holds temperatures and prevents frost from forming. Cardboard boxes and fruit baskets can provide shelter to individual plants, while old sheets, blankets, and heavy plastic tarps will protect entire rows of plants to be removed after the sun has warmed the air outside. For a cold frame, just arrange straw bales into a rectangular shape around a garden bed and lay windows across the top to form an enclosed and insulated growing area.
Late summer is a great time to sow cold-tolerant vegetables that will flourish in the fall and endure cold weather without complaint. Some hardy vegetables would be kale, spinach, collards, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, kohlrabi, turnips, cabbages, oriental greens, rutabagas, and some varieties of lettuce.
A few vegetables will survive on their own even through bitterly cold conditions. Some of these would be leeks, kale, and collards. Fall planted garlic and shallots will develop strong root systems in the fall, spend the winter underground, and then spring up at the earliest signs of the arrival of spring.
Many root crops can be left in the garden protected with a thick layer of shredded leaves or straw. Beets, carrots, turnips, rutabagas, and parsnips can be left in the ground and you can continue havesting as needed, provided that the ground doesn’t freeze and prevent digging. However, finish harvesting before spring arrives, once the roots resume growing and switch into seed production mode, the quality of the food will diminish.
The options are endless for the gardener and only limited by your imagination.... well... and your cash! LOL Do your homework, make a plan, and get the soil prepared before the season gets here and you're sure to have a wonderful garden.
ref: magnoliatreeearthcenter.org
ref: thegardenhelper.com
ref: containergardeningtips.com
ref: gardening.wsu.edu
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Compost and Mulch
Compost is any decayed, organic plant or animal matter. It's nutrient rich and acts as a natural fertilizer for your plants. The composting is accomplished over a period of time by means of natural bacteria and often aided by worms, heat, and water. Compost includes weeds, grass clippings, hay, seaweed, garden waste, kitchen scraps, tree leaves and twigs to name a few. I can include animal matter but animal matter is discouraged.
Mulch is any material placed around plants as a protective covering for reducing weeds, increasing/decreasing the soil temperature or retaining moisture around the plant. Mulches can be organic like compost, wood chips, or hay. Or they can be inorganic like plastic sheeting.
A well maintained and active compost pile will convert organic material to compost in as little as thirty days. If left for nature to take care of the pile, it will likely take several months or a year. Most people who compost nowadays do so in a compost bin which is more aesthetically pleasing than having a pile of composting material in the middle of your yard.
To your composter add any organic matter from your garden or yard. Include any vegetable waste from the kitchen (including eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, etc). Alternate layers of green and brown waste (new and old), if at all possible. This helps with the mixing and decomposition. Keep your compost pile moist, but not wet. Turn the pile over from time to time so the bacteria and microbes can convert the pile into rich compost. After it has turned to soil, or mostly soil, feel free to use it.
Do not put any type of feces in your compost pile.
Do not pile grass clippings too thickly.
Do chip or shred larger items like branches or plant stalks if possible.
Do not put any diseased plants of any kind into your compost pile.
Stir your pile to mix it up it will speed up the process.
Add red worms to your pile. They should reproduce and they will speed up the composting process.
This is an excellent site for what you can and cannot compost, be sure to check it out:
http://www.gardenersnet.com/gardening/compostmaterials.htm
Next: Making the most of your garden area
ref: gardenersnet.com
Mulch is any material placed around plants as a protective covering for reducing weeds, increasing/decreasing the soil temperature or retaining moisture around the plant. Mulches can be organic like compost, wood chips, or hay. Or they can be inorganic like plastic sheeting.
A well maintained and active compost pile will convert organic material to compost in as little as thirty days. If left for nature to take care of the pile, it will likely take several months or a year. Most people who compost nowadays do so in a compost bin which is more aesthetically pleasing than having a pile of composting material in the middle of your yard.
To your composter add any organic matter from your garden or yard. Include any vegetable waste from the kitchen (including eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, etc). Alternate layers of green and brown waste (new and old), if at all possible. This helps with the mixing and decomposition. Keep your compost pile moist, but not wet. Turn the pile over from time to time so the bacteria and microbes can convert the pile into rich compost. After it has turned to soil, or mostly soil, feel free to use it.
Do not put any type of feces in your compost pile.
Do not pile grass clippings too thickly.
Do chip or shred larger items like branches or plant stalks if possible.
Do not put any diseased plants of any kind into your compost pile.
Stir your pile to mix it up it will speed up the process.
Add red worms to your pile. They should reproduce and they will speed up the composting process.
This is an excellent site for what you can and cannot compost, be sure to check it out:
http://www.gardenersnet.com/gardening/compostmaterials.htm
Next: Making the most of your garden area
ref: gardenersnet.com
Garden Preparation
It's that time of the year again! Pre-Spring and time to start thinking about and preparing your garden space.
First, select a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Second, be sure that area has a source of water nearby.
Then, it's time to prepare your space! Remove all large weeds, sod/grass, and large rocks from the garden area. Test your soil to determine it's pH content, salt concentration, and nutrient needs. Some County extension offices will run the tests, private testers are available in many areas, or you can buy an "at home" tester and do it yourself.
If you have sandy soil, it warms early in the Spring, allows a lot of drainage, and doesn't compact. Unfortunately, it also doesn't hold the necessary water and nutrients around the root zone.
If you have clay soil, it readily holds moisture, locks out air to the roots and is dense. Because of it's properties, the roots have difficulty growing very deeply, producing a smaller product.
If you have loam soil, it contains equal portions of sand, silt, and clay. It holds moisture and nutrients around the root zone and drains well to deliver oxygen to the roots.
To determine what type of soil you have, turn over a shovel full of dirt. If a handful can be squeezed and it doesn't stick together, it is sandy. If the handful forms a sticky ball that doesn't easily come apart, then you got clay. If the handful forms a ball that crumbles easily and isn't sticky, then loam is your soil. Of course, you can have a combination soil too so don't rule that out.
Soil should be 5% organic matter. Straw, twigs, leaves, peat moss, sawdust, grass clippings, manure are a few examples. Spread the organic matter 2 - 3" thick over the area and then incorporate it 6 - 8" deep.
Do NOT add sand to clay soil in an effort to improve drainage - the two mix and form a low grade cement instead!
Do NOT at peat moss to clay soil - they both hold water and you will end up with too much water.
Add nitrogen fertilizer to the organic matter to aid in the decomposing process. You will add more fertilizer later on also.
If your soil is acidic, add lime, gypsum or dolomite per the package directions.
If your soil is alkaline, add iron sulfate or ground sulphur. Iron sulfate will change the pH quicker, but also breaks down quicker. Ground sulphur will stay in the ground for years.
When your soil is dry enough, it's time to start tilling it. Take a handful of soil from about 3 - 4" down and compress it into a ball. Drop it on a hard surface and if it shatters, the soil can be worked. Till as deeply as possible to break up the soil. Try not to go the same depth each year or you run the risk of creating a "hardpan layer" just below the tilling depth. This layer, or floor, is where water accumulates and cannot soak through. Plants don't grow well unless this "floor" is broken through.
Next: Compost and Mulch
ref: essentialgardenguide.com
First, select a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Second, be sure that area has a source of water nearby.
Then, it's time to prepare your space! Remove all large weeds, sod/grass, and large rocks from the garden area. Test your soil to determine it's pH content, salt concentration, and nutrient needs. Some County extension offices will run the tests, private testers are available in many areas, or you can buy an "at home" tester and do it yourself.
If you have sandy soil, it warms early in the Spring, allows a lot of drainage, and doesn't compact. Unfortunately, it also doesn't hold the necessary water and nutrients around the root zone.
If you have clay soil, it readily holds moisture, locks out air to the roots and is dense. Because of it's properties, the roots have difficulty growing very deeply, producing a smaller product.
If you have loam soil, it contains equal portions of sand, silt, and clay. It holds moisture and nutrients around the root zone and drains well to deliver oxygen to the roots.
To determine what type of soil you have, turn over a shovel full of dirt. If a handful can be squeezed and it doesn't stick together, it is sandy. If the handful forms a sticky ball that doesn't easily come apart, then you got clay. If the handful forms a ball that crumbles easily and isn't sticky, then loam is your soil. Of course, you can have a combination soil too so don't rule that out.
Soil should be 5% organic matter. Straw, twigs, leaves, peat moss, sawdust, grass clippings, manure are a few examples. Spread the organic matter 2 - 3" thick over the area and then incorporate it 6 - 8" deep.
Do NOT add sand to clay soil in an effort to improve drainage - the two mix and form a low grade cement instead!
Do NOT at peat moss to clay soil - they both hold water and you will end up with too much water.
Add nitrogen fertilizer to the organic matter to aid in the decomposing process. You will add more fertilizer later on also.
If your soil is acidic, add lime, gypsum or dolomite per the package directions.
If your soil is alkaline, add iron sulfate or ground sulphur. Iron sulfate will change the pH quicker, but also breaks down quicker. Ground sulphur will stay in the ground for years.
When your soil is dry enough, it's time to start tilling it. Take a handful of soil from about 3 - 4" down and compress it into a ball. Drop it on a hard surface and if it shatters, the soil can be worked. Till as deeply as possible to break up the soil. Try not to go the same depth each year or you run the risk of creating a "hardpan layer" just below the tilling depth. This layer, or floor, is where water accumulates and cannot soak through. Plants don't grow well unless this "floor" is broken through.
Next: Compost and Mulch
ref: essentialgardenguide.com
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Healing Herbs
Research into the usefulness and value of herbs in healing is proving that the ancient herbs and spices mentioned in the Bible really can help heal health problems according to an article in a popular women's magazine.
Saffron, a Middle Eastern spice, eases depression. It also can help regulate your monthly cycle and increase libido.
Myrrh, a tree resin, eases pain. It has a natural anesthetic property that numbs pain signals in the brain.
Frankincense contains a mood-boosting chemical which eases anxiety and depression. The smoke from frankincense incense also boosts oxygen levels to the brain, giving you a quick energy boost.
Hyssop, an herb used for thousands of years as an antiseptic and disinfectant, treats respiratory problems, allowing you to breathe more readily. Phytochemicals in the flowering plant break up congestion, loosen phlegm, and eases swelling.
Cumin has been used for thousands of years to prevent and ease indigestion. It contains more than 100 chemicals that prevent gas and bloating, stimulate enzymes and flush out toxins from the intestines.
******************************
Helpful teas to use:
Ease heartburn with marshmallow root. It contains a gel-like substance that coats the digestive tract and blocks the stomach acids that cause heartburn.
Holy Basil, not the basil in your spice rack, boosts production of dopamine and serotonin which promote happiness and tranquility.
Dandelion, which we all consider a nuisance weed in our yards, is actually a flowering herb. It can speed up the time it takes your liver to filter out alcohol so you feel much better much faster with your hangover! Additionally, if you know you're going to drink some wine, drink a glass of prickly pear juice about 6 hours before hand and it will extremely reduce or even prevent a hangover entirely.
The Indonesian herb, Gotu Kola, increases concentration and beats fatigue, even if you haven't slept much the night before. It boosts oxygen and circulation to the brain keeping you alert and preventing brain fog.
Oolong tea eases the bloat from overeating and helps flush out excess fluids and sodium.
***************************
From an article in Women's World:
The set of techniques the Chinese believe helps them become in sync with the world and their surroundings, is called Tao, pronounced "dow" and meaning "path or way".
1. Taoism teaches the principle of wu wei, meaning effortless effort. Essentially, it says to follow your gut instinct when making decisions. If you make decisions based on what someone else wants you to do or because it is what you "should do", your own internal resistance can get in the way of success.
2. Taoism urges people to be like water. When water meets an obstacle, it doesn't give up or stop, instead, it flows around, seeps under, or runs over to get to the other side. In other words, don't force your issues, see if you can feel your way around it be seeking alternate solutions to the problems.
3. Don't beat yourself up over mistakes made. Tomorrow is another day, life is a moving journey.
4. Taoism encourages yu, ample amounts of free and easy wandering. Take a few minutes each day to do something fun - play with a pet, call a friend, read a chapter in a book, whatever you feel is fun for you.
5. A Taoist motto says "Talking about a path is not walking a path; thinking about life is not living". When you're stressed, ground yourself by focusing on your actions and senses.... live in the moment and experience it. Focus yourself on the smell of the flowers, the sound of coffee getting chewed up in the grinder, whatever you're doing at the moment.
6. According to the Tao, "the more we realize we're part of the vastness of nature, the easier it is to put problems in perspective and the happier we'll be". This notion could explain the beautiful gardens that are usually seen at Asian homes.
***************************
Cures from the kitchen for stress
Foot bath and massage:
6 c milk, 1/4 c honey, 2 packets of instant oatmeal
Warm the milk and honey. Allow mix to cool until comfortable to the touch. Pour into a large basin then sprinkle in the oatmeal. Dip feet in and massage the oatmeal all over them.
Scalp treatment:
1 Avocado, 1 can coconut milk
Scoop out the fruit into a blender. Pour in the coconut milk and puree. Work the conditioner through your hair and scalp with your finger pads for 10 - 30 minutes. Rinse and style as usual.
Facial:
1 c canned pumpkin, 1 t honey, splash of milk
Blend all the ingredients together and apply to a clean face uisng gentle circular motions (avoid the area around your eyes). Relax for 10 minutes and splash warm water on your face to rinse. Pat dry and moisturize.
Massage away anxiety:
2 -4 drops of vanilla extract, 1/4 c grapeseed oil, 1/4 c glycerine
Pour all ingredients into a resealable bottle and shake vigorously. Drizzle on to the pads of your fingertips. Then, using circular motions, massage your body starting at the base of your neck, the the outside of your shoulders. Massage the center of your palm and gently tug at each finger.
Body Scrub:
2 t cocoa powder, 1 c brown sugar, 1 c sweet almond oil
Blend cocoa and br sugar. Drizzle in oil. In the shower, massage the scrub on warm, wet skin, rinse and pat dry.
*****************************
Home Remedies
Asthma:
Drink a cup of coffee! It opens airways and prmotes breating well enough until you can get to you asthma meds. Coffee can prevent asthma attacks altogether.
Cough:
Dark chocolate quiets coughs 33% better than coughmeds containing codeine and lasts a full four hours.
Cold:
Chicken Soup. Yep, Grandma knew best! It helps relieve and even cure a cold.
Eyesight:
Eating just one carrot a day slashes your risk of macular degeneration almost in half. Other orange fruits and vegetables, like sweet potatoes and canaloupe have sight saving beta carotene too.
Hiccups:
Put a teaspoon of white granulated sugar in your mouth and let it dissolve. The granules irritate teh phrenic nerve, which is responsible for the hiccup reflex and cause the diaphragm to immediatley stop spasming.
Burns:
If you get a burn in the kitchen, pour some honey on it. It is more effective at healing and has antibiotic properties that kill the germs that cause infection.
Sore Throat:
Have a piece of pineapple! It's loaded with bromelain and vitamin C. Bromelain is deactivated by heat, so use fresh pineapple, not canned.
*************************
Saffron, a Middle Eastern spice, eases depression. It also can help regulate your monthly cycle and increase libido.
Myrrh, a tree resin, eases pain. It has a natural anesthetic property that numbs pain signals in the brain.
Frankincense contains a mood-boosting chemical which eases anxiety and depression. The smoke from frankincense incense also boosts oxygen levels to the brain, giving you a quick energy boost.
Hyssop, an herb used for thousands of years as an antiseptic and disinfectant, treats respiratory problems, allowing you to breathe more readily. Phytochemicals in the flowering plant break up congestion, loosen phlegm, and eases swelling.
Cumin has been used for thousands of years to prevent and ease indigestion. It contains more than 100 chemicals that prevent gas and bloating, stimulate enzymes and flush out toxins from the intestines.
******************************
Helpful teas to use:
Ease heartburn with marshmallow root. It contains a gel-like substance that coats the digestive tract and blocks the stomach acids that cause heartburn.
Holy Basil, not the basil in your spice rack, boosts production of dopamine and serotonin which promote happiness and tranquility.
Dandelion, which we all consider a nuisance weed in our yards, is actually a flowering herb. It can speed up the time it takes your liver to filter out alcohol so you feel much better much faster with your hangover! Additionally, if you know you're going to drink some wine, drink a glass of prickly pear juice about 6 hours before hand and it will extremely reduce or even prevent a hangover entirely.
The Indonesian herb, Gotu Kola, increases concentration and beats fatigue, even if you haven't slept much the night before. It boosts oxygen and circulation to the brain keeping you alert and preventing brain fog.
Oolong tea eases the bloat from overeating and helps flush out excess fluids and sodium.
***************************
From an article in Women's World:
The set of techniques the Chinese believe helps them become in sync with the world and their surroundings, is called Tao, pronounced "dow" and meaning "path or way".
1. Taoism teaches the principle of wu wei, meaning effortless effort. Essentially, it says to follow your gut instinct when making decisions. If you make decisions based on what someone else wants you to do or because it is what you "should do", your own internal resistance can get in the way of success.
2. Taoism urges people to be like water. When water meets an obstacle, it doesn't give up or stop, instead, it flows around, seeps under, or runs over to get to the other side. In other words, don't force your issues, see if you can feel your way around it be seeking alternate solutions to the problems.
3. Don't beat yourself up over mistakes made. Tomorrow is another day, life is a moving journey.
4. Taoism encourages yu, ample amounts of free and easy wandering. Take a few minutes each day to do something fun - play with a pet, call a friend, read a chapter in a book, whatever you feel is fun for you.
5. A Taoist motto says "Talking about a path is not walking a path; thinking about life is not living". When you're stressed, ground yourself by focusing on your actions and senses.... live in the moment and experience it. Focus yourself on the smell of the flowers, the sound of coffee getting chewed up in the grinder, whatever you're doing at the moment.
6. According to the Tao, "the more we realize we're part of the vastness of nature, the easier it is to put problems in perspective and the happier we'll be". This notion could explain the beautiful gardens that are usually seen at Asian homes.
***************************
Cures from the kitchen for stress
Foot bath and massage:
6 c milk, 1/4 c honey, 2 packets of instant oatmeal
Warm the milk and honey. Allow mix to cool until comfortable to the touch. Pour into a large basin then sprinkle in the oatmeal. Dip feet in and massage the oatmeal all over them.
Scalp treatment:
1 Avocado, 1 can coconut milk
Scoop out the fruit into a blender. Pour in the coconut milk and puree. Work the conditioner through your hair and scalp with your finger pads for 10 - 30 minutes. Rinse and style as usual.
Facial:
1 c canned pumpkin, 1 t honey, splash of milk
Blend all the ingredients together and apply to a clean face uisng gentle circular motions (avoid the area around your eyes). Relax for 10 minutes and splash warm water on your face to rinse. Pat dry and moisturize.
Massage away anxiety:
2 -4 drops of vanilla extract, 1/4 c grapeseed oil, 1/4 c glycerine
Pour all ingredients into a resealable bottle and shake vigorously. Drizzle on to the pads of your fingertips. Then, using circular motions, massage your body starting at the base of your neck, the the outside of your shoulders. Massage the center of your palm and gently tug at each finger.
Body Scrub:
2 t cocoa powder, 1 c brown sugar, 1 c sweet almond oil
Blend cocoa and br sugar. Drizzle in oil. In the shower, massage the scrub on warm, wet skin, rinse and pat dry.
*****************************
Home Remedies
Asthma:
Drink a cup of coffee! It opens airways and prmotes breating well enough until you can get to you asthma meds. Coffee can prevent asthma attacks altogether.
Cough:
Dark chocolate quiets coughs 33% better than coughmeds containing codeine and lasts a full four hours.
Cold:
Chicken Soup. Yep, Grandma knew best! It helps relieve and even cure a cold.
Eyesight:
Eating just one carrot a day slashes your risk of macular degeneration almost in half. Other orange fruits and vegetables, like sweet potatoes and canaloupe have sight saving beta carotene too.
Hiccups:
Put a teaspoon of white granulated sugar in your mouth and let it dissolve. The granules irritate teh phrenic nerve, which is responsible for the hiccup reflex and cause the diaphragm to immediatley stop spasming.
Burns:
If you get a burn in the kitchen, pour some honey on it. It is more effective at healing and has antibiotic properties that kill the germs that cause infection.
Sore Throat:
Have a piece of pineapple! It's loaded with bromelain and vitamin C. Bromelain is deactivated by heat, so use fresh pineapple, not canned.
*************************
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
More Helpful Hints
Are you retired but still want or need to work? There are 3 websites that could help you find employers that are looking for older job seekers with work experience. I have looked into this first one and they have many many job listings, I haven't checked the other two yet.
retirementjobs.com
seniorjobbank.org
retiredbrains.com
*****************
Thinking green? Here are 3 easy ways to help save the earth.
ecoperks.com
earn eco points from stores you normally shop at like Home Depot and Macy's.
webmail.planetsave.com
each email sent helps save the rain forest. Every email protects 5 sq ft.
betterworldclub.com
It typically costs the same or less than AAA auto club. The group donates a portion of all proceeds to eco-friendly causes.
***********************
Sinus Pain!! Yep, we've all had it at one time or another... some of us more than others! It puts a damper on our whole day. These are methods for relief from sinus issues that don't have any side effects and don't require a prescription.
1. A hot 15 minute shower in the morning can kick start sinus healing in just 72 hours -faster than most meds. You can also lean over a hot bowl of steaming water with a towel draped over your head to inhale the steam. Or, hold a hot, damp cloth to your cheeks and forehead for 15 minutes each morning.
2. Avoid taking antihistimines. It's what we all reach for as soon as there's a problem, but try not to do that! They stop your sniffling by THICKENING mucus, so it actually stays longer in the sinus, prolonging your problem. Decongestants can be used once in a while in small doses to help you sleep. Nasal sprays can damage the delicate lining of the nose and the pill forms can cause heart troubles in some people.
3. Try, if your Doctor says you can, a supplement with Bromelain. Bromelain is an anti-inflammatory enzyme in pineapple that helps relieve the swelling of the nasal lining.
4. Spicy condiments like horseradish, wasabi, hot salsa will unplug your sinuses too! Try eating a couple teaspoons twice a day until it clears up.
5. Recent studies indicate that stomach acid washes up into the throat and sinuses. If you've got heartburn... take steps to get that under control and it could very well help your sinus issues.
***************************
To ease heartburn, pop a piece of gum in your mouth and chew rapidly for about 5 minutes. The quick chewing creates saliva in your mouth and throat which washes the heartburn causing acids out of your esophagus.
****************************
Feeling tired, over-worked, and stressed out? Get some fresh evergreen boughs for your office or home. Their turpineol activates teh brains energy center and after a few wiff's of the boughs you'll find the energy to go on!
************************
Thinking about a make-over? New hairstyle? Different makeup? This is a really neat site and it's free! Log on to www.taaz.com, upload a photo of yourself and then choose different hairstyles and cosmetic effects! Once you've created your new look, you can email your makeover photo to friends for their opinion too!
**************************
Leg and foot cramps.... who hasn't experienced a charley horse in their calf or worse, the arch of their foot in the middle of the night?? The usual culprit, they say, is having too little potassium in your system... eat a banana every day. Mild dehydration can cause cramps so be sure you drink plenty of water every day. Magnesium is also essential for healthy muscle function. Just a small spinach salad every day will give you 75% of the magnesium your muscles need to stay pain free. Sometimes, for a calf cramp, standing on the ball of the foot that has the cramping calf for 5 seconds will take the tension off the affected area and stop the painful spasm. Another thing to try when the cramp hits is to run a hand towel under hot water and wrap it around the cramp to relax the muscle.
**************************
They say that for every hour you work, you need 5 minutes of downtime to recharge. Try out these fun websites when you need your 5 minute break!
cyke.com/garden.swf
learningmeditation.com/relax.htm
realarcade.com
stressiq.com
relaxation.com/streamingrelaxation.htm
virtualbubblewrap.com
****************************
retirementjobs.com
seniorjobbank.org
retiredbrains.com
*****************
Thinking green? Here are 3 easy ways to help save the earth.
ecoperks.com
earn eco points from stores you normally shop at like Home Depot and Macy's.
webmail.planetsave.com
each email sent helps save the rain forest. Every email protects 5 sq ft.
betterworldclub.com
It typically costs the same or less than AAA auto club. The group donates a portion of all proceeds to eco-friendly causes.
***********************
Sinus Pain!! Yep, we've all had it at one time or another... some of us more than others! It puts a damper on our whole day. These are methods for relief from sinus issues that don't have any side effects and don't require a prescription.
1. A hot 15 minute shower in the morning can kick start sinus healing in just 72 hours -faster than most meds. You can also lean over a hot bowl of steaming water with a towel draped over your head to inhale the steam. Or, hold a hot, damp cloth to your cheeks and forehead for 15 minutes each morning.
2. Avoid taking antihistimines. It's what we all reach for as soon as there's a problem, but try not to do that! They stop your sniffling by THICKENING mucus, so it actually stays longer in the sinus, prolonging your problem. Decongestants can be used once in a while in small doses to help you sleep. Nasal sprays can damage the delicate lining of the nose and the pill forms can cause heart troubles in some people.
3. Try, if your Doctor says you can, a supplement with Bromelain. Bromelain is an anti-inflammatory enzyme in pineapple that helps relieve the swelling of the nasal lining.
4. Spicy condiments like horseradish, wasabi, hot salsa will unplug your sinuses too! Try eating a couple teaspoons twice a day until it clears up.
5. Recent studies indicate that stomach acid washes up into the throat and sinuses. If you've got heartburn... take steps to get that under control and it could very well help your sinus issues.
***************************
To ease heartburn, pop a piece of gum in your mouth and chew rapidly for about 5 minutes. The quick chewing creates saliva in your mouth and throat which washes the heartburn causing acids out of your esophagus.
****************************
Feeling tired, over-worked, and stressed out? Get some fresh evergreen boughs for your office or home. Their turpineol activates teh brains energy center and after a few wiff's of the boughs you'll find the energy to go on!
************************
Thinking about a make-over? New hairstyle? Different makeup? This is a really neat site and it's free! Log on to www.taaz.com, upload a photo of yourself and then choose different hairstyles and cosmetic effects! Once you've created your new look, you can email your makeover photo to friends for their opinion too!
**************************
Leg and foot cramps.... who hasn't experienced a charley horse in their calf or worse, the arch of their foot in the middle of the night?? The usual culprit, they say, is having too little potassium in your system... eat a banana every day. Mild dehydration can cause cramps so be sure you drink plenty of water every day. Magnesium is also essential for healthy muscle function. Just a small spinach salad every day will give you 75% of the magnesium your muscles need to stay pain free. Sometimes, for a calf cramp, standing on the ball of the foot that has the cramping calf for 5 seconds will take the tension off the affected area and stop the painful spasm. Another thing to try when the cramp hits is to run a hand towel under hot water and wrap it around the cramp to relax the muscle.
**************************
They say that for every hour you work, you need 5 minutes of downtime to recharge. Try out these fun websites when you need your 5 minute break!
cyke.com/garden.swf
learningmeditation.com/relax.htm
realarcade.com
stressiq.com
relaxation.com/streamingrelaxation.htm
virtualbubblewrap.com
****************************
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Nifty websites and tips
If you want to see if you have a rare coin worth lots of money, check out this site!
pocketchangelottery
Why carry around a fist full of coupons when you can have them transferred to your supermarket bonus card? The coupons are instantly redeemed when you swipe your card at the checkout! Best of all it's free! Check out the site and see if your favorite store is on it yet... if it's not, they'll email you when it is! The site is: shortcuts
Earn money at home. Work as much or as little as you like. Learn about the industry at these two sites International Virtual Assistant Association and Alliance for Virtual Businesses and then check out guru and elance for freelance job listings.
Need a little "fun break" in your day? Check out WebSudoku. Billions of free puzzles to play online, includes interactive tutorial.
Need to find out what something is? Take a picture of it and go to PicAnswers to post it with your question. While you're there, check out what others have posted and see if you have their answers! There were lots of pictures and lots of categories in that website when I looked at it!
Youngsters needing some help with homework? Check out this site, it's looks pretty neat! BJPinchbeck
I came across this information recently too and I had never heard of it before. Apparently, through a few companies (GE Money, Citigroup and a few others) one can get a "medical credit card" for use ONLY for health care expenses and they have 0% interest rates for as long as 12 months. Medical debt does not usually show up on a credit report unless it goes to collection, but consumer debt shows up immediately and can have a big impact if you pay bills late. The cards are usually offered to people who are having trouble paying their medical bills -making it very likely that they will still have a balance at the end of the 0% time. I don't know what the interest rate is after the 0% is over. So, the point being, if you are putting your medical costs on your regular credit cards, and then not able to pay properly... it's ending up on your credit report and you're probably paying at least 12% on the credit card balance. So, if your doctor won't negotiate a fee and payment schedule with you directly, this credit card might be another avenue you want to explore. This information is from Credit.com.
pocketchangelottery
Why carry around a fist full of coupons when you can have them transferred to your supermarket bonus card? The coupons are instantly redeemed when you swipe your card at the checkout! Best of all it's free! Check out the site and see if your favorite store is on it yet... if it's not, they'll email you when it is! The site is: shortcuts
Earn money at home. Work as much or as little as you like. Learn about the industry at these two sites International Virtual Assistant Association and Alliance for Virtual Businesses and then check out guru and elance for freelance job listings.
Need a little "fun break" in your day? Check out WebSudoku. Billions of free puzzles to play online, includes interactive tutorial.
Need to find out what something is? Take a picture of it and go to PicAnswers to post it with your question. While you're there, check out what others have posted and see if you have their answers! There were lots of pictures and lots of categories in that website when I looked at it!
Youngsters needing some help with homework? Check out this site, it's looks pretty neat! BJPinchbeck
I came across this information recently too and I had never heard of it before. Apparently, through a few companies (GE Money, Citigroup and a few others) one can get a "medical credit card" for use ONLY for health care expenses and they have 0% interest rates for as long as 12 months. Medical debt does not usually show up on a credit report unless it goes to collection, but consumer debt shows up immediately and can have a big impact if you pay bills late. The cards are usually offered to people who are having trouble paying their medical bills -making it very likely that they will still have a balance at the end of the 0% time. I don't know what the interest rate is after the 0% is over. So, the point being, if you are putting your medical costs on your regular credit cards, and then not able to pay properly... it's ending up on your credit report and you're probably paying at least 12% on the credit card balance. So, if your doctor won't negotiate a fee and payment schedule with you directly, this credit card might be another avenue you want to explore. This information is from Credit.com.
More health, diet and weight loss related stuff
Cranberries!
Cranberries are an interesting little fruit!
They contain the hard-to-get trio of malic, citric, and quinic acids. These compounds bind fat in the belly region to the cellular fluid for efficient removal by the lymphatic system.
Plus the berries' arbutin mimics the hormone insulin to prevent unhealthy fluctuations in blood sugar!
The berries also contain quercetin and myricetin, which are flavonoids that disable the enzymes that let cavity causing oral bacteria thrive.
These berries are so powerful that sipping cranberry juice has been shown to reduce heart disease risk by 40 percent. Their phenolic acid, an antioxidant that repairs damage to the liver made by free radicals optimizing the organ's breakdown of blood fats, keeping arteries free of blockage.
Lastly, eating a handful of dried cranberries every day can slash a woman's risk of developing a urinary tract infection by 42% according to the Harvard Medical School in Boston. The berries are packed with proanthocyanidins which work with the berries natural sugars to stop UTI causing E.coli bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and urethra.
Now that's a lot of stuff for one little berry to be able to do!
**********************************
And now, an amazing little vegetable! The sweet potato!
The sweet potato has enough potassium in one potato to erase bloating in 24 hours. This electrolyte enhances the kidneys' ability to eliminate retained fluids.
Additionally, it has betaine which clears fatty deposits from the liver, accelerating the organ's breakdown of belly fat for fuel.
The sweet potato is packed full of betacarotene. The body uses this nutrient to synthesize glycoproteins that accelerate the renewal of skin and improve skin cell cohesion, resulting in a smoother complexion and fewer fine lines within 10 weeks!
Sweet potatoes have ample supplies of copper, iron, Choline, Vitamin C, and phytochemicals in them also. The copper and iron work together to help the body produce hemoglobin, a blood molecule that transports energizing oxygen to every cell. Choline serves as a building block of acetylcholine, improving alertness in just 12 weeks! Vitamin C and phytochemicals assist the immune system in the production of T cells, infection fighting lymphocytes shown to decrease a person's risk of developing a cold or flu by 33%.
Not bad for a root! LOL
**************************************
Stop Fat Storage!
Lose 18 lbs in 21 days!
Soluble fiber is the basis for this diet... that would be a high fiber diet to us normal folks!
The research breakthroughs were made by the Spanish.
Sample menu's:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
2 scrambled eggs, 2T low fat cheese, 2T diced veggies, 1 whole wheat pita, 1/2 grapefruit OR
3/4c oat bran flakes, 3/4c nonfat milk, 1 banana OR
1 oat-bran waffle, 1T low-sugar preserves, 1/2c lite yogurt, 1 pear
Lunch - choose one daily:
3/4c whole wheat pasta, 1/4c garbanzo beans, 1/4c reduced fat feta, 1/4c diced cucumber, 1/4c tomato, 4 black olives, 2T lite vinaigrette, 1/2 whole wheat pita pocket. OR
2 oz chicken breast, 1/4c black beans, 1/4c low fat cheese, 1/4c lettuce, 1/4c tomato, 1 whole wheat tortilla, 2T Salsa, 1/2c shredded carrots, 1T raisins, 1T lite mayo and 2t wine vinegar OR
3 oz Salmon, 1/2c orange sections, 1T pecans, 2c mixed greens, 2T lite dressing, 4 whole wheat crackers, 1 pc string cheese
Dinner - choose one daily:
3 oz lean deli roast beef, 1/4c kidney beans, 1/4c mozzarella, 1/2c orange sections, 6 grape tomatoes, 2T lite vinaigrette, 2/3c chilled brown rice, 1/2c broccoli, 1T walnuts OR
3 oz turkey burger, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2t lite mayo, veggies, 1 whole wheat bun, 3/4c lentil soup, and 1/2c blueberries OR
4oz tuna or salmon, 2T teriyaki sauce, 1 sm baked sweet potato, 1T lite sour cream, 1c 3-bean salad.
Snack - choose two daily:
1 plum, 3/4c lite yogurt OR
1/3c low fat cottage cheese, 1/2c berries OR
1T bean dip, 5 baby carrots OR
1 kiwi, 1 pc string cheese OR
100 calorie pack oatmeal cookies OR
1 peach, 10 almonds
Best sources of soluble fiber: Artichoke, oat bran cereal, kidney beans, orange, figs, soy beans, pear, navy beans, brussel sprouts, oatmeal
***************************************
Cranberries are an interesting little fruit!
They contain the hard-to-get trio of malic, citric, and quinic acids. These compounds bind fat in the belly region to the cellular fluid for efficient removal by the lymphatic system.
Plus the berries' arbutin mimics the hormone insulin to prevent unhealthy fluctuations in blood sugar!
The berries also contain quercetin and myricetin, which are flavonoids that disable the enzymes that let cavity causing oral bacteria thrive.
These berries are so powerful that sipping cranberry juice has been shown to reduce heart disease risk by 40 percent. Their phenolic acid, an antioxidant that repairs damage to the liver made by free radicals optimizing the organ's breakdown of blood fats, keeping arteries free of blockage.
Lastly, eating a handful of dried cranberries every day can slash a woman's risk of developing a urinary tract infection by 42% according to the Harvard Medical School in Boston. The berries are packed with proanthocyanidins which work with the berries natural sugars to stop UTI causing E.coli bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and urethra.
Now that's a lot of stuff for one little berry to be able to do!
**********************************
And now, an amazing little vegetable! The sweet potato!
The sweet potato has enough potassium in one potato to erase bloating in 24 hours. This electrolyte enhances the kidneys' ability to eliminate retained fluids.
Additionally, it has betaine which clears fatty deposits from the liver, accelerating the organ's breakdown of belly fat for fuel.
The sweet potato is packed full of betacarotene. The body uses this nutrient to synthesize glycoproteins that accelerate the renewal of skin and improve skin cell cohesion, resulting in a smoother complexion and fewer fine lines within 10 weeks!
Sweet potatoes have ample supplies of copper, iron, Choline, Vitamin C, and phytochemicals in them also. The copper and iron work together to help the body produce hemoglobin, a blood molecule that transports energizing oxygen to every cell. Choline serves as a building block of acetylcholine, improving alertness in just 12 weeks! Vitamin C and phytochemicals assist the immune system in the production of T cells, infection fighting lymphocytes shown to decrease a person's risk of developing a cold or flu by 33%.
Not bad for a root! LOL
**************************************
Stop Fat Storage!
Lose 18 lbs in 21 days!
Soluble fiber is the basis for this diet... that would be a high fiber diet to us normal folks!
The research breakthroughs were made by the Spanish.
Sample menu's:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
2 scrambled eggs, 2T low fat cheese, 2T diced veggies, 1 whole wheat pita, 1/2 grapefruit OR
3/4c oat bran flakes, 3/4c nonfat milk, 1 banana OR
1 oat-bran waffle, 1T low-sugar preserves, 1/2c lite yogurt, 1 pear
Lunch - choose one daily:
3/4c whole wheat pasta, 1/4c garbanzo beans, 1/4c reduced fat feta, 1/4c diced cucumber, 1/4c tomato, 4 black olives, 2T lite vinaigrette, 1/2 whole wheat pita pocket. OR
2 oz chicken breast, 1/4c black beans, 1/4c low fat cheese, 1/4c lettuce, 1/4c tomato, 1 whole wheat tortilla, 2T Salsa, 1/2c shredded carrots, 1T raisins, 1T lite mayo and 2t wine vinegar OR
3 oz Salmon, 1/2c orange sections, 1T pecans, 2c mixed greens, 2T lite dressing, 4 whole wheat crackers, 1 pc string cheese
Dinner - choose one daily:
3 oz lean deli roast beef, 1/4c kidney beans, 1/4c mozzarella, 1/2c orange sections, 6 grape tomatoes, 2T lite vinaigrette, 2/3c chilled brown rice, 1/2c broccoli, 1T walnuts OR
3 oz turkey burger, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2t lite mayo, veggies, 1 whole wheat bun, 3/4c lentil soup, and 1/2c blueberries OR
4oz tuna or salmon, 2T teriyaki sauce, 1 sm baked sweet potato, 1T lite sour cream, 1c 3-bean salad.
Snack - choose two daily:
1 plum, 3/4c lite yogurt OR
1/3c low fat cottage cheese, 1/2c berries OR
1T bean dip, 5 baby carrots OR
1 kiwi, 1 pc string cheese OR
100 calorie pack oatmeal cookies OR
1 peach, 10 almonds
Best sources of soluble fiber: Artichoke, oat bran cereal, kidney beans, orange, figs, soy beans, pear, navy beans, brussel sprouts, oatmeal
***************************************
More Multitudes of Diets!
As always, I am not recommending any of these diets for anyone, I am just putting them all in one place for you to compare and decide if you want to try any of them or none of them! Also, always consult your doctor before starting any diet. db
***********************
Lose 2 pounds every day!
For three weeks you are drinking all your meals and snacks.
Sample day:
Breakfast - In juicer, combine 3 large carrots, 1 cucumber, 1/2 beet, 1/2 peeled lemon, and 1" pc of gingerroot. Drink along with 8oz of warm water or herbal tea.
Snack 1 - In juicer, combine 1 cup mixed berries, 1 cored apple and 2 cucumbers
Lunch - In juicer, combine 1/2 cucumber, 1 large handful spinach, 3 carrots, 2 stalks celery, and 1/2 lemon. Drink with 8oz iced herbal tea.
Snack 2 - In juicer, combine 2 cored apples, 1 cucumber, and 1 large handful of dandelion greens or spinach.
Supper - In juicer, combine 3 medium tomatoes, 1 cucumber, 1 sm handful cilantro, 1 red bell pepper and 1/2 peeled lime. Add dash of hot sauce if desired.
Snack 3 - In juicer, combine 1 c mixed berries, 1 cucumber and 1/2 peeled grapefruit. Drink with 1 large glass iced herbal tea.
Week 4 and after, have one glass of juice, 2 pieces of fruit, and 3 cups of veggies daily. Eat fish, lean meat, skinless poultry, eggs and protein powder.
None of the veggies are peeled when you eat them. If you are concerned about what toxins may be on your produce, rinse them in 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 gallon of water or buy organic produce.
For more recipes you can visit My First for Women
******************************************
Breakthrough new Flat Belly Diet
Lose 7 lbs and 5 inches from your tummy in just one week!
A Spanish study proved that adults who get lots of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA's) have significantly less belly fat than adults who eat fewer calories but skimp on good fat.
Sample menu:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
1/2 c egg whites scrambled with 1/2 c baby spinach, 1/4 c each salsa and guacamole, 4 sm corn tortillas OR
1 slice whole grain toast, 2 T natural peanut or almond butter, 1/2 banana, and 1c fat free yogurt or milk OR
1 c oatmeal, 1c cherries, and 2 T pistachios or macadamias
Lunch - choose one daily:
3 oz grilled chicken, 1 c grape toatoes, 1/2c whole wheat penne, 1/2c grated carrot, 1 oz feta cheese and 1 T pesto sauce OR
1 black bean veggie burger, 1/4c sliced avocado, 2 T sliced onion, 1 T salsa, 1 whole grain bun, and 1 med apple OR
1/2c fat free ricotta, 1/4c diced bell pepper, 10 sliced green olives, 2 diced oil packed sun dried tomatoes, 1 t minced garlic, 4 sliced basil leaves, 1 whole grain pita. (Fill pita with other ingredients and broil until cheese bubbles). Serve w/ 1/2c low sugar pasta sauce.
Dinner - choose one daily:
3 oz grilled chicken breast, 2 c Asian-style veggies (stir fried in 1 T sesame oil), 1/2c cooked brown rice OR
3 oz lean ham, 1 oz low fat cheese, 1 T pesto sauce in 1 multigrain pita, 1 c grape tomatoes OR
3 oz broiled medium shrimp, 2c mixed greens, 3/4c corn, 1/2c snow peas, 1/4c sliced red onion, 2T balsamic vinegar and 1T extra-virgin olive oil.
Snack - choose one daily:
Blend 1c fat free or soy milk and 1c frozen blueberries until smooth, add 1 T flaxsee or canola oil. Drink w/ 3 c lite popcorn. OR
1c raspberries, 8 oz Greek style plain fat free yogurt, 1/4c chocolate chips. OR
1 whole grain English muffin with 2 oz Turkey, 2T black olive tapenade, 2 T hummus, and 1/2c water packed artichoke hearts.
Best sources of MUFA's: Olive Oil, Canola Oil, Almond Butter, Avocado, Macadamia Nuts, Pesto Sauce, Peanut Butter, Olives, Chocolate Chips, Peanuts and other nuts.
*****************************************
Metabolism Superfoods
Lose 20 lbs in 6 weeks! The Hot Latin Diet
Sample menus:
Breakfast - Choose one daily:
1 egg and 2 egg whites scrambled in 2t olive oil, 3T salsa, 1 warm tortilla, 1 1/4c papaya OR
1c low fat cottage cheese, 2c pineapple, passion fruit or banana,sprinkle of cinnamon, 1T chpd nuts OR
1 soft cooked egg, 1 slice whole wheat toast, 1 c mango or cantaloupe, 12 oz low fat latte w/ sprinkle of cinnamon
Lunch - choose one daily:
10 shrimp, 1/2c black beans, 1/2c corn, 2t each of live oil, vinegar, onion, tomato and chiles, 1c jicama or cucumber slices, 2 guavas or 1 orange OR
2 oz grilled chicken or fish, 1/4 avocado, veggies, salsa, cilantro to taste, 1 corn tortilla, 12 sweet potato chips, 3/4 c berries OR
1c brown rice, 1/3c each of tomato and canned tuna, 2T fresh cilantro, 1t each of olive oil and lemon juice, pinch of garlic powder and salt, 3/4c vegetable juice, 1 1/2c watermelon
Dinner - choose one daily:
1 chicken breast, 1c mixed veggies, 1 clove minced garlic sauteed in 1t olive oil, 1 oz goat cheese, 2c mixed salad, 1t olive oil and 1t lemon juice OR
3 1/2 oz fish, 1t olive oil, salt, lemon, cilantro to taste, 1/2c cooked black beans, 2c mixed salad greens, 1/4c avocado, 1t olive oil and 1t lemon juice. OR
3oz shrimp or chicken topped with 1/2 c mango salsa, 1c bell pepper sliced, 2c mixed salad greens w/1t olive oil and 1t lemon juice
Snack - choose two daily:
3/4c each low fat yogurt and sliced bananas OR
3/4oz cheese and 15 grapes OR
1/3oz nuts or seeds and 1 frozen fruit bar OR
1c low fat rice pudding OR
3/4c low fat milk blended with 3/4c mango
Fat burning Latin Superfoods: Cinnamon, Chiles, Avocado, Beans, and Garlic
*****************************************
Drop 47 lbs by Christmas! (this was in a magazine dated 11/24/08)
Basically, this diet wants you to sip 5 or more servings of tea a day, including one cup before each meal. Eat 3 balanced meals that contain at least 50 percent veggies, fruit and whole grains, plus a serving of lean protein and a bit of fat.
1. Drink Oolong tea which promotes health and weight loss benefits, instead of drinking coffee.
2. Take a green tea pill first thing in the morning on an empty stomach if you don't have time to brew yourself a cup of tea.
3. Pulverize loose tea in a coffee grinder for one minute. Depending on the tea you pulverize, use it as a seasoning in whatever you're cooking.
4. Add one oz of lemon, orange, lime or grapefruit juice to Iced Tea instead of drinking soda pop.
**************************************
Fat Burning Carbs
Resistant starch in pasta, potatoes, and rice can boost your body's anti-hunger hormones and stop fat storage!
Sample menus:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
2 scrambled eggs, 1/4c black beans, 2T low fat cheese, 1 whole wheat tortilla, 1 tangerine OR
2 low fat oat bran waffles, 1T peanut butter, 1/2 banana, 1/2c lite yogurt OR
Stir together 3T lemon juice, 4t Hi-Maize Natural Fiber, 3/4c lite vanilla yogurt and 1T superfine sugar until smooth. Add 1 1/3c fruit and some ice. Whip smooth in a blender.
Lunch - choose one daily:
1/2c chilled pasta, 1/2 c black beans, 1/2c corn, 2T chopped tomato, 2T bell pepper, 2T lite dressing OR
2 oz lean ham, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2t mustard, lettuce and tomato. 2 slices fiber rich bread, 2c mixed salad, 1T lite dressing, 6 baked corn chips, salsa, 1 nectarine OR
1c chilled cream of potato soup, 2oz cubed cooked chicken, 1/2c chilled brown rice, 3T low fatr cheese, 1T each of green onion and bell pepper, 2T lite dressing, 1 peach.
Dinner - choose one daily:
3oz lean turkey burger, 1 whole wheat bun, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2t mustard, lettuce and tomato, 1/2c chilled diced potato, 1T onion, 1T relish, 1 1/2 T lite mayo, 2t lemon juice, unlimited carrot sticks OR
1/4c each of navy beans, black beans and kidney beans, 1T each of diced onion, tomato, and corn, 2T lite Italian dressing, 3 1/2 oz lean grilled steak, 1 whole wheat roll, 1t margerine OR
6 oz cod or other white fish baked with 1t olive oil and seasoning to tast, 2/3c corn, 1 1/2c baby spinach, 1/4c chilled lentils, 1 hard cooked egg, 2T mozzarella, 1T lite dressing.
Snack - choose two daily:
1/3c lite yogurt, 1/2c fat free milk, 1/2 banana, blended to smooth OR
2 rye crisp crackers and 1 oz fat free cheese OR
1 frozen banana and 1T lite chocolate syrup OR
5 mini oatmeal cookies and 1/2 c fat free milk OR
2T hummus and 1/2 whole wheat pita OR
3/4 oz pretzels, gluten free are preferable
For more info and recipes go to: resistantstarch
Best sources of fat burning carbs: Bananas, navy beans, other beans, potatoes, brown rice, corn, pasta, oatmeal, whole grain bread
********************************
Drop 16 lbs by Christmas while eating what you love! (from a magazine date 12/15/08)
This diet requires that you take Phase 2, which is a white kidney bean extract that blocks starch absorption. You are to consume a daily diet of 55% carbs, 30% protein and 15% fat. You will also need to drink 8 - 16oz of water each time you take the capsules to prevent constipation and sub-par results. You take a total of 3000 mg daily of the Phase 2.
If fatty foods are your diet downfall, you can take Chitosan which is a form of fiber that binds fat and flushes it out of the body. You also take it with 8 - 16 oz of water each time.
If you are perimenopausal, you'll need to also take Natrol Carb Interceptor with your Phase 2 to help prevent blood sugar swings.
*****************************************
The Get Slim Vitamin - Discover the health boosting nutrient that can heal your thyroid, turn off your cravings, and melt off 9 lbs a week!
According to Brazilian researchers, for each extra milligram of B6 that dieters get from foods like red meat, potatoes and bananas, they lose an extra 3.3 pounds. B6 helps metabolize foods and turn their calories into energy. B6 creates a hormonal balance helping people to sleep better. Without enough B6, the body can't make neurotransmitters like tryptophan, dopamine and serotonin which are linked to improved mood, less stress and an increased sense of well-being. Serotonin specifically reduces carb cravings.
Sample menus:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
1c lite yogurt, 1 banana, 1/2c low fat granola OR
1c Total cereal, 3/4c fat free milk, 1 banana, 1c tomato juice OR
2 frozen oat bran waffles, 2t peanut butter, 1/2c diced papaya and 1/2c fat free milk
Lunch - choose one daily:
2c mixed greens, 3oz lean meat, 1/4c garbanzo beans, 1/4c tomato, 2T shredded low-fat cheese, 2T sunflower seeds, 2T balsamic vinegar and 1t olive oil, 1/4 cantaloupe OR
1 hard boiled egg, 2T lite mayo, 2T sunflower seeds, 1 whole wheat pita or 8 reduced fat triscuits, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2 sm plums OR
1 banana, 1c 1% fat cottage cheese, 1c berries, 2T sunflower seeds, 2 graham cracker squares or reduced fat triscuits.
Dinner - choose one daily:
4oz grilled lean beef or braised beef liver, 1T BBQ sauce, 1c grilled vegetables, 1/2t olive oil, 1 med baked potato, 1T low-fat cheese, 1 tomato, 1/2t olive oil and oregano OR
4 oz salmon, 3/4c diced tropical fruit, 1c spinach, 1/8 avocado, 1/4c each of garbanzo beans and red onion, 2t walnuts, 2T balsamic vinaigrette, 3 reduced fat triscuits OR
2c mixed greens, 4 oz grilled pork loin, 1/3c apricot slices, 2T green onions, 2t sunflower seeds, 2T lite vinaigrette, 2 thin hard bread sticks, 1 1/2c watermelon.
Snacks - choose two daily:
2oz Tuna, 1T lite mayo, wrap in a lettuce leaf OR
3/4c lite yogurt, 1/4c strawberries, 1/4c Total cereal OR
2t peanut butter, 1/2 banana OR
1/2c melon, 1pc string cheese OR
1c tomato soup, 4 reduced fat Triscuits OR
2T raisins, 1T sunflower seeds
******************************
That's all for now, but I have more of this stuff to post!
***********************
Lose 2 pounds every day!
For three weeks you are drinking all your meals and snacks.
Sample day:
Breakfast - In juicer, combine 3 large carrots, 1 cucumber, 1/2 beet, 1/2 peeled lemon, and 1" pc of gingerroot. Drink along with 8oz of warm water or herbal tea.
Snack 1 - In juicer, combine 1 cup mixed berries, 1 cored apple and 2 cucumbers
Lunch - In juicer, combine 1/2 cucumber, 1 large handful spinach, 3 carrots, 2 stalks celery, and 1/2 lemon. Drink with 8oz iced herbal tea.
Snack 2 - In juicer, combine 2 cored apples, 1 cucumber, and 1 large handful of dandelion greens or spinach.
Supper - In juicer, combine 3 medium tomatoes, 1 cucumber, 1 sm handful cilantro, 1 red bell pepper and 1/2 peeled lime. Add dash of hot sauce if desired.
Snack 3 - In juicer, combine 1 c mixed berries, 1 cucumber and 1/2 peeled grapefruit. Drink with 1 large glass iced herbal tea.
Week 4 and after, have one glass of juice, 2 pieces of fruit, and 3 cups of veggies daily. Eat fish, lean meat, skinless poultry, eggs and protein powder.
None of the veggies are peeled when you eat them. If you are concerned about what toxins may be on your produce, rinse them in 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 gallon of water or buy organic produce.
For more recipes you can visit My First for Women
******************************************
Breakthrough new Flat Belly Diet
Lose 7 lbs and 5 inches from your tummy in just one week!
A Spanish study proved that adults who get lots of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA's) have significantly less belly fat than adults who eat fewer calories but skimp on good fat.
Sample menu:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
1/2 c egg whites scrambled with 1/2 c baby spinach, 1/4 c each salsa and guacamole, 4 sm corn tortillas OR
1 slice whole grain toast, 2 T natural peanut or almond butter, 1/2 banana, and 1c fat free yogurt or milk OR
1 c oatmeal, 1c cherries, and 2 T pistachios or macadamias
Lunch - choose one daily:
3 oz grilled chicken, 1 c grape toatoes, 1/2c whole wheat penne, 1/2c grated carrot, 1 oz feta cheese and 1 T pesto sauce OR
1 black bean veggie burger, 1/4c sliced avocado, 2 T sliced onion, 1 T salsa, 1 whole grain bun, and 1 med apple OR
1/2c fat free ricotta, 1/4c diced bell pepper, 10 sliced green olives, 2 diced oil packed sun dried tomatoes, 1 t minced garlic, 4 sliced basil leaves, 1 whole grain pita. (Fill pita with other ingredients and broil until cheese bubbles). Serve w/ 1/2c low sugar pasta sauce.
Dinner - choose one daily:
3 oz grilled chicken breast, 2 c Asian-style veggies (stir fried in 1 T sesame oil), 1/2c cooked brown rice OR
3 oz lean ham, 1 oz low fat cheese, 1 T pesto sauce in 1 multigrain pita, 1 c grape tomatoes OR
3 oz broiled medium shrimp, 2c mixed greens, 3/4c corn, 1/2c snow peas, 1/4c sliced red onion, 2T balsamic vinegar and 1T extra-virgin olive oil.
Snack - choose one daily:
Blend 1c fat free or soy milk and 1c frozen blueberries until smooth, add 1 T flaxsee or canola oil. Drink w/ 3 c lite popcorn. OR
1c raspberries, 8 oz Greek style plain fat free yogurt, 1/4c chocolate chips. OR
1 whole grain English muffin with 2 oz Turkey, 2T black olive tapenade, 2 T hummus, and 1/2c water packed artichoke hearts.
Best sources of MUFA's: Olive Oil, Canola Oil, Almond Butter, Avocado, Macadamia Nuts, Pesto Sauce, Peanut Butter, Olives, Chocolate Chips, Peanuts and other nuts.
*****************************************
Metabolism Superfoods
Lose 20 lbs in 6 weeks! The Hot Latin Diet
Sample menus:
Breakfast - Choose one daily:
1 egg and 2 egg whites scrambled in 2t olive oil, 3T salsa, 1 warm tortilla, 1 1/4c papaya OR
1c low fat cottage cheese, 2c pineapple, passion fruit or banana,sprinkle of cinnamon, 1T chpd nuts OR
1 soft cooked egg, 1 slice whole wheat toast, 1 c mango or cantaloupe, 12 oz low fat latte w/ sprinkle of cinnamon
Lunch - choose one daily:
10 shrimp, 1/2c black beans, 1/2c corn, 2t each of live oil, vinegar, onion, tomato and chiles, 1c jicama or cucumber slices, 2 guavas or 1 orange OR
2 oz grilled chicken or fish, 1/4 avocado, veggies, salsa, cilantro to taste, 1 corn tortilla, 12 sweet potato chips, 3/4 c berries OR
1c brown rice, 1/3c each of tomato and canned tuna, 2T fresh cilantro, 1t each of olive oil and lemon juice, pinch of garlic powder and salt, 3/4c vegetable juice, 1 1/2c watermelon
Dinner - choose one daily:
1 chicken breast, 1c mixed veggies, 1 clove minced garlic sauteed in 1t olive oil, 1 oz goat cheese, 2c mixed salad, 1t olive oil and 1t lemon juice OR
3 1/2 oz fish, 1t olive oil, salt, lemon, cilantro to taste, 1/2c cooked black beans, 2c mixed salad greens, 1/4c avocado, 1t olive oil and 1t lemon juice. OR
3oz shrimp or chicken topped with 1/2 c mango salsa, 1c bell pepper sliced, 2c mixed salad greens w/1t olive oil and 1t lemon juice
Snack - choose two daily:
3/4c each low fat yogurt and sliced bananas OR
3/4oz cheese and 15 grapes OR
1/3oz nuts or seeds and 1 frozen fruit bar OR
1c low fat rice pudding OR
3/4c low fat milk blended with 3/4c mango
Fat burning Latin Superfoods: Cinnamon, Chiles, Avocado, Beans, and Garlic
*****************************************
Drop 47 lbs by Christmas! (this was in a magazine dated 11/24/08)
Basically, this diet wants you to sip 5 or more servings of tea a day, including one cup before each meal. Eat 3 balanced meals that contain at least 50 percent veggies, fruit and whole grains, plus a serving of lean protein and a bit of fat.
1. Drink Oolong tea which promotes health and weight loss benefits, instead of drinking coffee.
2. Take a green tea pill first thing in the morning on an empty stomach if you don't have time to brew yourself a cup of tea.
3. Pulverize loose tea in a coffee grinder for one minute. Depending on the tea you pulverize, use it as a seasoning in whatever you're cooking.
4. Add one oz of lemon, orange, lime or grapefruit juice to Iced Tea instead of drinking soda pop.
**************************************
Fat Burning Carbs
Resistant starch in pasta, potatoes, and rice can boost your body's anti-hunger hormones and stop fat storage!
Sample menus:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
2 scrambled eggs, 1/4c black beans, 2T low fat cheese, 1 whole wheat tortilla, 1 tangerine OR
2 low fat oat bran waffles, 1T peanut butter, 1/2 banana, 1/2c lite yogurt OR
Stir together 3T lemon juice, 4t Hi-Maize Natural Fiber, 3/4c lite vanilla yogurt and 1T superfine sugar until smooth. Add 1 1/3c fruit and some ice. Whip smooth in a blender.
Lunch - choose one daily:
1/2c chilled pasta, 1/2 c black beans, 1/2c corn, 2T chopped tomato, 2T bell pepper, 2T lite dressing OR
2 oz lean ham, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2t mustard, lettuce and tomato. 2 slices fiber rich bread, 2c mixed salad, 1T lite dressing, 6 baked corn chips, salsa, 1 nectarine OR
1c chilled cream of potato soup, 2oz cubed cooked chicken, 1/2c chilled brown rice, 3T low fatr cheese, 1T each of green onion and bell pepper, 2T lite dressing, 1 peach.
Dinner - choose one daily:
3oz lean turkey burger, 1 whole wheat bun, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2t mustard, lettuce and tomato, 1/2c chilled diced potato, 1T onion, 1T relish, 1 1/2 T lite mayo, 2t lemon juice, unlimited carrot sticks OR
1/4c each of navy beans, black beans and kidney beans, 1T each of diced onion, tomato, and corn, 2T lite Italian dressing, 3 1/2 oz lean grilled steak, 1 whole wheat roll, 1t margerine OR
6 oz cod or other white fish baked with 1t olive oil and seasoning to tast, 2/3c corn, 1 1/2c baby spinach, 1/4c chilled lentils, 1 hard cooked egg, 2T mozzarella, 1T lite dressing.
Snack - choose two daily:
1/3c lite yogurt, 1/2c fat free milk, 1/2 banana, blended to smooth OR
2 rye crisp crackers and 1 oz fat free cheese OR
1 frozen banana and 1T lite chocolate syrup OR
5 mini oatmeal cookies and 1/2 c fat free milk OR
2T hummus and 1/2 whole wheat pita OR
3/4 oz pretzels, gluten free are preferable
For more info and recipes go to: resistantstarch
Best sources of fat burning carbs: Bananas, navy beans, other beans, potatoes, brown rice, corn, pasta, oatmeal, whole grain bread
********************************
Drop 16 lbs by Christmas while eating what you love! (from a magazine date 12/15/08)
This diet requires that you take Phase 2, which is a white kidney bean extract that blocks starch absorption. You are to consume a daily diet of 55% carbs, 30% protein and 15% fat. You will also need to drink 8 - 16oz of water each time you take the capsules to prevent constipation and sub-par results. You take a total of 3000 mg daily of the Phase 2.
If fatty foods are your diet downfall, you can take Chitosan which is a form of fiber that binds fat and flushes it out of the body. You also take it with 8 - 16 oz of water each time.
If you are perimenopausal, you'll need to also take Natrol Carb Interceptor with your Phase 2 to help prevent blood sugar swings.
*****************************************
The Get Slim Vitamin - Discover the health boosting nutrient that can heal your thyroid, turn off your cravings, and melt off 9 lbs a week!
According to Brazilian researchers, for each extra milligram of B6 that dieters get from foods like red meat, potatoes and bananas, they lose an extra 3.3 pounds. B6 helps metabolize foods and turn their calories into energy. B6 creates a hormonal balance helping people to sleep better. Without enough B6, the body can't make neurotransmitters like tryptophan, dopamine and serotonin which are linked to improved mood, less stress and an increased sense of well-being. Serotonin specifically reduces carb cravings.
Sample menus:
Breakfast - choose one daily:
1c lite yogurt, 1 banana, 1/2c low fat granola OR
1c Total cereal, 3/4c fat free milk, 1 banana, 1c tomato juice OR
2 frozen oat bran waffles, 2t peanut butter, 1/2c diced papaya and 1/2c fat free milk
Lunch - choose one daily:
2c mixed greens, 3oz lean meat, 1/4c garbanzo beans, 1/4c tomato, 2T shredded low-fat cheese, 2T sunflower seeds, 2T balsamic vinegar and 1t olive oil, 1/4 cantaloupe OR
1 hard boiled egg, 2T lite mayo, 2T sunflower seeds, 1 whole wheat pita or 8 reduced fat triscuits, 1 slice fat free cheese, 2 sm plums OR
1 banana, 1c 1% fat cottage cheese, 1c berries, 2T sunflower seeds, 2 graham cracker squares or reduced fat triscuits.
Dinner - choose one daily:
4oz grilled lean beef or braised beef liver, 1T BBQ sauce, 1c grilled vegetables, 1/2t olive oil, 1 med baked potato, 1T low-fat cheese, 1 tomato, 1/2t olive oil and oregano OR
4 oz salmon, 3/4c diced tropical fruit, 1c spinach, 1/8 avocado, 1/4c each of garbanzo beans and red onion, 2t walnuts, 2T balsamic vinaigrette, 3 reduced fat triscuits OR
2c mixed greens, 4 oz grilled pork loin, 1/3c apricot slices, 2T green onions, 2t sunflower seeds, 2T lite vinaigrette, 2 thin hard bread sticks, 1 1/2c watermelon.
Snacks - choose two daily:
2oz Tuna, 1T lite mayo, wrap in a lettuce leaf OR
3/4c lite yogurt, 1/4c strawberries, 1/4c Total cereal OR
2t peanut butter, 1/2 banana OR
1/2c melon, 1pc string cheese OR
1c tomato soup, 4 reduced fat Triscuits OR
2T raisins, 1T sunflower seeds
******************************
That's all for now, but I have more of this stuff to post!
Fruits for Better Health
Fruits for Better Health
The pomegranate -
Studies have found that the juice of the pomegranate slows free radical damage - which is what causes your cells to age. One small glass of juice has more cell-protecting bioflavonoids than red wine, grapes or green tea. The pomegranate is loaded with ellagic acid, a natural anti-tumor compound.
Boysenberries -
New Zealand researchers have discovered that this berry contains natural compounds that improve memory and reaction time. These berries - which look a lot like a blackberry - have high levels of anthocyanins which are powerful antioxidants that protect brain cells against age-related damage (dementia and alzheimers).
Passion Fruit -
These fruits are loaded with calming B Vitamins and potassium, which relax the nervous system. South Americans eat the fruit to help them rest. The fruit’s alkaloids are proven to lower blood pressure.
Goji Berries -
A tangy red berry from the Himalaya’s that are loaded with iron, Vitamin C, and betacarotene. They are also loaded with an antioxidant called zeaxanthin, which protects the retina and filters out UV light. Studies suggest that these berries can prevent age-related vision loss.
Mangosteen -
From the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, this fruit fights depression. Its active ingredients, xanthones, are also found in St Johns Wort. This fruit also seems to have a positive effect on the “good mood” brain chmical serotonin and enhances tryptophan -an amino acid that aids sleep.
Acai Berries -
This tiny berry from Brazil is packed with antioxidants and protein. Researchers at the University of Florida found an extract of the berry caused leukemia cells to self-destruct 90% of the time.
Kumquats -
These are tiny little citrus fuits that are loaded with vitamin C and can boost your metabolism. These fruits are about the size of a grape tomato. You just pop them in your mouth and eat them, skin and all. The skins contain pectin, which expands in your stomach and makes you feel full longer.
The pomegranate -
Studies have found that the juice of the pomegranate slows free radical damage - which is what causes your cells to age. One small glass of juice has more cell-protecting bioflavonoids than red wine, grapes or green tea. The pomegranate is loaded with ellagic acid, a natural anti-tumor compound.
Boysenberries -
New Zealand researchers have discovered that this berry contains natural compounds that improve memory and reaction time. These berries - which look a lot like a blackberry - have high levels of anthocyanins which are powerful antioxidants that protect brain cells against age-related damage (dementia and alzheimers).
Passion Fruit -
These fruits are loaded with calming B Vitamins and potassium, which relax the nervous system. South Americans eat the fruit to help them rest. The fruit’s alkaloids are proven to lower blood pressure.
Goji Berries -
A tangy red berry from the Himalaya’s that are loaded with iron, Vitamin C, and betacarotene. They are also loaded with an antioxidant called zeaxanthin, which protects the retina and filters out UV light. Studies suggest that these berries can prevent age-related vision loss.
Mangosteen -
From the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, this fruit fights depression. Its active ingredients, xanthones, are also found in St Johns Wort. This fruit also seems to have a positive effect on the “good mood” brain chmical serotonin and enhances tryptophan -an amino acid that aids sleep.
Acai Berries -
This tiny berry from Brazil is packed with antioxidants and protein. Researchers at the University of Florida found an extract of the berry caused leukemia cells to self-destruct 90% of the time.
Kumquats -
These are tiny little citrus fuits that are loaded with vitamin C and can boost your metabolism. These fruits are about the size of a grape tomato. You just pop them in your mouth and eat them, skin and all. The skins contain pectin, which expands in your stomach and makes you feel full longer.
Helpful Household Tips
Helpful Household Tips
Slow shower:
Fill a plastic freezer bag with equal parts of warm water and white vinegar. Place the bag around the showerhead and secure. Leave on for 1 hour then remove the bag and run hot water through the showerhead. Your problem should be cured.
Cleaning stainless steel appliances:
Squirt a dab of hand sanitizer into a clean dry cloth. Clean your appliance! The gel’s alcohol base lifts dirt and oil from fingerprints leaving your appliance shiny and, as well, you’ve just sanitized your appliance!
Leaky glass vase:
For a small crack in a vase, you can melt (with a match) a matching color, color crayon onto the vase. Let it cool and scrape away the excess. You should now have a watertight seal.
Holiday weaths:
To protect your wreath from drooping and shedding, mist the entire surface with hairspray. It helps trap moisture and keep the needles fresh and pretty.
Slow shower:
Fill a plastic freezer bag with equal parts of warm water and white vinegar. Place the bag around the showerhead and secure. Leave on for 1 hour then remove the bag and run hot water through the showerhead. Your problem should be cured.
Cleaning stainless steel appliances:
Squirt a dab of hand sanitizer into a clean dry cloth. Clean your appliance! The gel’s alcohol base lifts dirt and oil from fingerprints leaving your appliance shiny and, as well, you’ve just sanitized your appliance!
Leaky glass vase:
For a small crack in a vase, you can melt (with a match) a matching color, color crayon onto the vase. Let it cool and scrape away the excess. You should now have a watertight seal.
Holiday weaths:
To protect your wreath from drooping and shedding, mist the entire surface with hairspray. It helps trap moisture and keep the needles fresh and pretty.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
