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- 4 cups sliced yellow squash
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 35 buttery round crackers, crushed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C)
- Place squash and onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of water. Cover and cook well.
- In a medium bowl, mix together cracker crumbs and cheese. Stir half of the cracker mixture into the cooked squash and onions.
- In a small bowl, mix together eggs and milk; then add to squash mixture.
- Stir in ¼ cup melted butter, and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cracker mixture, and dot with 2 tablespoons butter.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- This site offers special events and great deals for places to travel to from around the country and even outside the United States. http://travelwithkids.about.com/cs/holidays/a/memorialday.htm
- This site offers 8 great ideas for things to do on Memorial Day.
http://blog.halloweenexpress.com/2011/05/23/8-ideas-of-things-to-do-this-memorial-day/ - This site offers a “green” perspective of celebrating Memorial Day by keeping your car in the garage and having fun at home.
http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/958837/memorial-day-staycation-ideas - Hot dog buns
- Hamburger buns
- Hamburger meat or patties
- Wieners
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise or salad dressing (i.e. Miracle Whip)
- Ketchup
- Pickle relish
- Sliced cheese
- Charcoal
- Charcoal Starter
- BBQ sauce
- Onions
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Grilling utensils
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Salad toppings
- Bacon bits
- Salad dressing
- Coconut Oil as a Dietary Supplement
- Cooking With Coconut Oil
- Coconut Oil for the Skin
- Coconut Oil for the Hair
- I use tons of tissue as a result of my allergies.
- I use lots of printer paper as I am in the habit of printing everything I see to read later.
- I am an avid reader and love books. I choose to buy more hard cover or paperback books than I do eBooks.
- We go through paper towels in our house like they are nothing.
- When applying or cleaning off my makeup, I use even more tissues.
- I shred my documents to prevent identity theft and I usually end up tossing the shredded paper.
- We use paper towels or napkins for every meal.
- I keep journals and use spiral notebooks. I’m notorious for not using the complete spiral notebook before moving on to another one.
- Scrap paper is usually scrapped rather than used for another purpose.
- We use paper plates for microwaving food and to cut down on dirty dishes.
- I can get some handkerchiefs to use throughout the day to blow my nose.
- I can make sure when I print that it is absolutely necessary. Where appropriate, I can reduce my document margins, so that large documents do not require so many pages. Also, if I am printing just for informational purposes, I can reuse the paper by flipping it over.
- I can start trying to incorporate more eBooks into my book library.
- Instead of always reaching for a paper towel, I can use more dish cloths and hand towels to clean up messes or dry my hands.
- I need to designate old wash rags specifically for cleaning off my makeup so that I will not have to worry about stains. This will cut down on the amount of tissues used.
- From now on I can save all my shredded paper and use it as packing material or eventually put it in the recycling bins.
- I can buy cloth napkins and stop using paper napkins or paper towels.
- I can make a conscious effort to stop wasting paper in my journals and notebooks. When appropriate I can do my journaling online.
- I can start a box that is designated as “scrap paper” so that whenever we have any scrap paper that can be used to write on, we can put it in the box.
- I can quit buying paper plates except for maybe during holiday times or other times there is a big crowd.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for the Skin
May 28th, 2012
In continuing with a look at the many benefits of coconut oil, I wanted to find out more about how it can be beneficial for the skin. As I mentioned in the introduction post in this series, I started researching the benefits of coconut oil because I was first curious about whether it could help my own dry skin; and then, of course, I started wondering about all the other possible benefits of coconut oil.
In keeping with the spirit of research, I rubbed extra-virgin coconut oil all over my body, after my shower. I used the extra-virgin simply because that is what I had on hand in my pantry. Usually with my regular lotions, after a couple of hours, I feel like I have not even used any lotion. To my surprise, after about 11 hours after applying the coconut oil, my skin still felt very moist. I also applied it to my face and it seemed to have a nice glow to it all day. I did however wipe off some excess. The next day my husband was holding my hand and he noticed that my hands were extra soft. He now wants to try the coconut oil on his rough, dry, cracking feet. I will let you know how that goes. Of course, one day is not enough evidence to convince me that it really works better than my usual store-bought products, but it’s enough to keep me trying it to see how it works long-term.
Now that you have read about my little experiment with the coconut oil, you might be asking, “Okay, why should I try coconut oil for my skin?” Well, apparently there are several benefits for your skin, when using coconut oil. It is reported to be effective in treating eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, skin infections, acne, and dry skin. There are also claims that coconut oil helps prevent premature aging and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. According to one article, coconut oil can be used as a sunblock because of its ability to “protect your skin from the free radicals that can cause skin cancer, and coconut oil doesn’t come with some of the extra chemicals most other sun blocks do” (Croswell, 2010). However, I am not advocating for anyone to rely solely on coconut oil for sun protection, as this would not be as effective as the many excellent sun blocks that are available on the market, which are solely designed for sun protection. For more information on sun blocks and how they work, check out: http://cleaningouttheclutter.com/2012/05/preventing-skin-cancer-sunscreen-rules-and-tips/.
In conclusion, I have searched the Internet for reviews on using the coconut oil as a moisturizer, since this is the area I am most interested in. I have read both pros and cons. Some people have reported breakouts, while others say it’s the best moisturizer they’ve ever owned. Out of the 50 or so reviews I read, I would say that most of the reviews were very positive, in favor of using coconut oil. If you have sensitive skin, I would definitely go with an organic brand, if you decide to try it. Otherwise, if you do not have sensitive skin, what is it going to hurt to try it? I would love to hear from you, if you are using coconut oil as a skin moisturizer or to treat other skin conditions. Let me know how it works, whether you have a positive or negative experience with it. As for me, I am going to continue using it all over, for at least a few weeks, before deciding whether to ditch my expensive moisturizers and rely solely on the coconut oil.
Try this Homemade Almond Coconut Oil Moisturizer for a fragrant, healthy, and inexpensive moisturizer.
References:
Croswell, J. (2010). Skin Care. Retrieved May 25, 2012 from:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/74508-use-coconut- oil-skin/
Organic Facts. (2012). Health Benefits of Coconut Oil: Skin Care. Retrieved May 25, 2012 from:
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
Next Health Tip: Benefits of Exercise
Squash Casserole
May 26th, 2012
Next Recipe: Bulgolgi-Grilled Marinated Beef
Memorial Day 2012 Ideas
May 21st, 2012
Memorial Day is Monday, May 28, but the weekend is what everyone looks forward to (May 25 – May 28). For those people who work, it usually means getting a 3-day reprieve from work.
Often, since you have just 3-4 days to get away, it’s difficult to think of places to go and things to do, as opposed to having a whole week or two to plan a real vacation. To help you with some of your planning, I have found some great websites you may want to check out:
Many of the online travel sites are still offering last-minute deals for Memorial Day weekend. Here are some of my favorites:
Do not waste a lot of time hopping around, trying to get the best deal. Usually these sites are up-to-date and very competitive. They are mostly working with the same information from the airlines, hotels, etc. However, the hotels and airlines often offer more incentives, so it might be worth comparing prices with them, before booking through the travel web site. There are programs you can join, such as Hilton Honors, which will give you discounts. If you are an AARP member you can get discounts. There are auto clubs such as AAA that offer discounts. Sometimes, even your credit card companies have special deals they can offer you. However, don’t spend hours trying to save 10-20 dollars, because it’s not worth it. Your time is worth something and it’s a vacation, after all. It’s supposed to be fun and relaxing – not get you all stressed out before you ever even leave.
With the prices of gas, you may also choose to stay at home and enjoy time with family and friends. There is certainly nothing wrong with that. You will have less stress and planning, as well as not have to fight any crowds or crazy drivers on the roads. Of course, to make it a safe and fun weekend, you still have to do some planning. If you will have guests, you certainly are going to want to make sure you have food to feed them. Plan your menu early and get to the store before the crowds. I suggest no later than Thursday, because a lot of people will get paid and they will hit the grocery store on Friday. Then Saturday and Sunday they will continue to go back to the store for those things they have run out of, or forgotten. Then you can just sit back and relax and say, “I’m glad I’m not fighting those crowds today.”
Speaking of menu, what types of foods are good to eat during Memorial Day? I am a traditional woman most of the time. I like turkey during Christmas and Thanksgiving, and hot dogs and hamburgers for Memorial Day. However, there is no reason to feel you have to stick with a traditional menu. Here are some basic, traditional menu ideas, as well as items you might need to add to your grocery list:
Hamburgers and Hot Dogs Cooked on the Grill
Steaks on the grill are also easy to add, in addition to your hot dogs and hamburgers. For this, choose a thick cut of meat, as it will make a more tender and juicy steak for your guests. I also suggest using your favorite recipe or store-bought marinade. It’s best if you can marinate the steaks for at least a few hours before putting them on the grill.
For something to serve on the side, I suggest you consider any combination of beans, potato salad, cole slaw, and potato chips.
For the beans, I suggest cooking them in the crockpot the day before and warming them when your guests are ready to eat. I would offer my potato salad recipe here, but I don’t have one. I just mix it up and it always tastes great. However, I can tell you the ingredients I use…potatoes, mustard, mayonnaise, dill relish, onions, and boiled eggs (you can leave out the onions if you prefer). I make a typical southern-style mustard potato salad. There are plenty of recipes on the web for this type of potato salad, if you’re interested. For the cole slaw, I make mine from scratch using cabbage, carrots, cole slaw dressing, and my handy Vitamix blender. However, the cole slaw can be bought in a bag, already chopped. Then all you have to do is add the cole slaw dressing (either homemade or store bought).
Another traditional favorite to throw on the grill is corn on the cob. Just buy the corn in the husks and put it on the grill just like that. Make sure you have plenty of the corn holders to put in the ends of the corn, to make it easier and less messy for your guests to handle their corn. Also, if you are going to opt for the steaks, you may want to buy some large baking potatoes and have these as well. Make sure you have butter, sour cream, bacon bits, and shredded cheese on hand to offer your guests.
Salad is also a nice side dish to go along with the steaks. For salad you may want to make sure you have a nice variety to offer your guests:
If you are like me, I am not thrilled about making desserts. I just do not like baking; etc, because of the mess and hassle. There’s no need to worry, just pick up some ice cream or a pre-made cake or pie while you’re at the store. This time is really about relaxing and enjoying your friends and family. It’s not about trying to impress your guests or being perfect. They will be happy all the same. If my family reads this, they will be thinking, “Sure, why don’t you take your own advice?” Well, if you read the About Us section and my bio, you will see that’s part of my problem. I have been stressed and so I am trying to learn new ways of doing things and “de-cluttering” my life. I am a slow learner and always a work in progress.
That’s about all this southern gal has to offer for this Memorial Day. I hope you all have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend. Most importantly, remember to relax…it will all work out in the end.
Nutritional Benefits of Coconut Oil
May 18th, 2012
Coconut oil as a dietary supplement can be very beneficial in many ways. Coconut oil is commonly referred to as one of the “good fats.” Often, people tend to forget about the good fats when trying to support a balanced diet. Coconut oil contains three important fatty acids – lauric acid, caprillic acid, and capric acid.
Lauric Acid
Coconut oil in its purest form contains about 50% lauric acid. Lauric acid is a saturated fat found in vegetable fats, and, specifically, coconut oil. When broken down in the body, lauric acid is converted to monlaurin, a monoglyceride compound known to destroy fungus, bacteria, and viruses. Often it is used to treat such conditions as ringworm, athlete’s foot, herpes, measles, influenza, hepatitis C and HIV. The only other place lauric acid is found in such high concentrations is in a mother’s breast milk.
Caprillic Acid
Caprillic acid is an eight-carbon, short chain fatty acid. It is known for its natural anti-microbial properties. Because of its natural, safe qualities, it is often used as a disinfectant in hospitals, schools, hotels, restaurants; etc. It is totally safe to use on surfaces that come in contact with food. As a health benefit, caprillic acid is considered most effective when fighting off fungal infections. When sold in a supplement form, it is often touted for its ability to reduce the candida overgrowth in the body. Robert Harrison, a Natural Health Consultant, does a very good job of explaining what candida is; how to decide if you have an overgrowth; and the havoc the overgrowth can have on your bodies. For more information about candida yeast infections, check out Harrison’s article, “Candida Yeast Infections — What You Need To Know” (http://www.candida-yeast-infection-relief.com/?gclid=COjc88Skh7ACFQOFnQodmw7Rjw).
Capric Acid
Capric Acid, also known as decanoic acid, is a 10-carbon fatty acid found in animal fats, milk, and plant oils. It is often used in the manufacture of perfume, fruit flavorings, and lubricants, to name a few. Proponents of capric acid believe it is beneficial in maintaining proper insulin levels, making it beneficial for pre-diabetics, as well as diabetics.
Like lauric acid and caprillic acid, capric acid also has significant antimicrobial and antiviral qualities. It helps to “combat viruses, bacteria and yeast Candida albicans” (Odebunmi, 2011).
Capric acid is also known to break down quickly in the body, making it a good source of energy; therefore, possibly contributing to weight loss due to increased calorie burn.
In addition to the illnesses mentioned above, some doctors and authorities on coconut oil swear by the benefits of using coconut oil with hypothyroidism, high cholesterol, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, fibromyalgia, Crohn’s Disease, allergies, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, just to mention a few.
Summary
Based on the research I have done thus far, coconut oil has many benefits. Although I have not started yet, I am strongly considering incorporating more coconut oil into my diet. The question is how much and in what form? Are supplements effective? Is extra-virgin coconut oil the best? As you can see, I still have more research to do and questions to answer. I hope you will keep checking back as we explore these questions and more. If you have any questions, please feel free to post them and I will do my best to try to answer them. One thing is definitely apparent – coconut oil isn’t just for cooking, any more.
Nature’s Way Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, 32 OunceCarrington Farms Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, 54 Ounce, Packaging May Vary Viva Naturals Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, 16 Ounce[/amazon_image [amazon_image id="B00HNTPEWU" link="true" target="_blank" size="medium" ]Viva Naturals Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, 32 Ounce
References:
“Benefits of Coconut Oil as a Supplement” http://www.livestrong.com/article/102493-benefits-coconut-oil-supplement
“Lauric Acid Overview Information” http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1138-LAURIC%20ACID.aspx?activeIngredientId=1138&activeIngredientName=LAURIC%20ACID
“Learn About the Many Benefits of Lauric Acid in Coconut Oil”
http://www.naturalnews.com/026819_lauric_acid_coconut_oil_infections.html
“Coconut Oil and Heart Disease” http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article10132.htm
“Candida Yeast Infections — What You Need To Know” http://www.candida-yeast-infection-relief.com/?gclid=COjc88Skh7ACFQOFnQodmw7Rjw
“Capric Acid from Coconut Oil May Lead to Better, Safer Drug for Diabetes” http://healthimpactnews.com/2011/capric-acid-from-coconut-oil-may-lead-to-better-safer-drug-for-diabetes/
Odebunmi, Olu, 2011.”Benefits of Capric Acid” http://www.livestrong.com/article/475060-benefits-of-capric-acid/
Next Health Tip: Skin Cancer Awareness Month – The Signs to Look For
Exploring The Benefits of Coconut Oil
May 14th, 2012
Is coconut oil good for the skin? Recently I have suffered from extremely dry skin. This is most likely due to my age and hormone imbalance (nice way of saying I’m in menopause). Having watched a recent episode of Dr. Oz, where he talked about the benefits of coconut oil on the hair, I decided to do a little research. I had purchased some coconut oil for the HCG diet I was on, but have not used it in raw form for anything other than cooking.
What I already knew about coconut oil is that pure coconut oil is great for not only your hair, but also for your skin. That’s it (really)…that’s all I knew about it. So now I am willing to explore the world of coconut oil in pursuit of healthier skin, and perhaps, healthier hair. I also want to find out all the cooking and nutritional benefits of using coconut oil.
The areas I want to cover are the following:
So let’s get started discovering the many uses of coconut oil. If you already use coconut oil, please share with me and everyone else how and why you use the coconut oil.
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas
May 7th, 2012
Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13th, so for you last-minute shoppers, here are some great ways you can make the mother in your life feel special.
Always easy and on time, you can have a gift or flowers delivered via one of the many flower retailers available online, or by visiting your local florist. My personal favorite is 1-800-FLOWERS. They always deliver exactly what you order, on time.
Cards are always a great way to express how you feel. With the economy, many people say they cannot afford to get their mother or significant other a present. If she is anything like me, it’s not the gift that matters, it’s the thought. I do not know too many mothers that would scoff at the thought of only getting a card. We really don’t care, in most cases. We just want to feel loved or thought of. I got my Mom a card recently in which I recorded a message to her. She told me how special it was because anytime she wants to hear my voice, she can just listen to that card. I never even thought of that. These types of cards are available in lots of stores like Wal Mart, Target, K-Mart; etc.
If you are fortunate enough to live near your mother, why not take her out to lunch? This is very easy and you will get to enjoy spending quality time with your mother. I know she will appreciate it, too, and it will be something she can brag about to her friends or the ladies at the hair or nail salon. I suggest you pick up a card too, to make the occasion extra special.
If the mother in your life is a typical woman, you can never go wrong with a new purse. There are so many colors and styles to choose from. A matching wallet is also a nice added touch. For color choice, maybe you can recall some blouses she wears. Usually a woman’s favorite colors will be apparent in her wardrobe.
Jewelry is always welcome by ladies of all ages. If you opt to go with real gold or silver you can find very nice necklaces for under $100. However, if you want to spend the big bucks on jewelry, I suggest you go to a reputable jewelry store, rather than some place like Wal-Mart.
Most mothers always put everyone else ahead of their own needs, so they often do not spend money on things such as lingerie or pajamas. If you know the right size, these types of gifts are always welcome. I personally love to get new pajamas or gowns. I get tired of wearing the same ones over and over. For these things, it really doesn’t matter where you buy them. We do not care, as long as they are comfortable and cute.
Scarves are really in style now. A nice scarf and a small bottle of perfume or cologne would be a welcomed gift for the fashion conscious mother. However, let me caution you on perfume or cologne-women are picky about their fragrances. If you do not know for sure what she would like when selecting a fragrance, then do not attempt it. Most women have their favorites and will not vary much from them.
If you want other ideas, Gifts.com offers a wide range of ideas for all different types of mothers and for different budgets. Here is their link: http://www.gifts.com/ideas/mothers-day .
I hope these Mother’s Day gift ideas will help. As you can see, even though Mother’s Day is swiftly approaching, you still have time to make the mother in your life feel special. I hope you all have a wonderful Mother’s Day!
Cinco de Mayo
May 2nd, 2012
Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is a Mexican holiday to commemorate the victory of the Mexican militia over the French military in 1862, at the Battle of Puebla. It is mostly celebrated in Mexico and U.S. states which have a significant Mexican population. Texas is definitely one state that has a large Mexican population; therefore, we have lots of activities and food to choose from to commemorate this day.
Many people think that Cinco de Mayo is the day Mexico gained their independence from Spain, but actually they had been independent of Spain for 51 years when the battle of Puebla occurred.
Although France did send more troops to eventually take over Mexico, the holiday is still celebrated as a symbol of Mexico’s strength, and to honor those brave militia men who were significantly outnumbered by the French military.
Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria, France’s choice to rule Mexico, was eventually executed after Mexico expelled the French, with assistance from the United States.
Considering what Mexico went through to gain their independence, Cinco de Mayo is definitely a well-deserved Mexican holiday; although you do not have to be Mexican to enjoy the festivities.
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, here are some links to a few recipes to help you and your family celebrate this day. These recipes got some great reviews. Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Guacomole from MarthaStewart.com
Baja Style Fish Tacos courtesty of Mardcella Valladolid via foodnetwork.com
Black Bean Salsa courtesy of Paula Deen via foodnetwork.com
Avocado-Corn Dip with Homemade Tortilla Chips from Coastal Living via myrecipes.com
Mexican Rice courtesy of Emeril Lagasse, 2002, via foodnetwork.com
Gold Metal Sizzling Fajitas courtesy of Paula Deen, 2007, via foodnetwork.com
Chicken and Bean Puff Pastry Empanadas courtesy of Dave Lieberman via foodnetwork.com
Chicken Enchiladas courtesy of Tyler Florence via foodnetwork.com
Three Cheese Quesadillas courtesy of Aida Mollenkamp via foodnetwork.com
Next Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Recycling Paper: Looking Around Your House to Find Areas You Waste Paper
April 25th, 2012Before doing any further research on paper recycling, I am taking a look around my house at all the obvious ways that I can take positive steps toward reducing or recycling paper products.
Okay, now that the guilt is really setting in, what’s the first step? How can I make a positive change to help our planet TODAY…not tomorrow?
In looking at just the 10 things that first came to mind, there is a lot I can do without even having to know much about recycling paper.
I know Arbor Day is not until Friday, but I am vowing today to get started in making a difference to save our trees, clean up our environment, and save money. I will let you know my progress as I take care of these items, and then move on to bigger recycling tasks.
As you can see, with very little thought, I have discovered several ways I can make a difference. What about you? Are you ready to go “green” and save our trees? Are you buying too many paper products? Are you wasting paper and money? Each individual really CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE in his or her own paper recycling effort.
Next Step to Green Living: It’s Arbor Day – Let’s Plant a Tree!
