Organic Food Choices

There are some foods that we always buy organic.

I have spoken with a few friends recently about why we buy organic foods. First, we try to avoid "the dirty dozen" (the fruits and vegetables that absorb the most chemical pesticides). When we don't have access to organic foods or if they are too expensive, experts advise to at least try to find organic alternatives to the "dirty dozen" (the first 12 on the list found at http://www.foodnews.org/fulllist.php).

I have to buy organic peaches. For a few years now, I have discovered that when I eat non-organic peaches, my lips get red, itchy and swollen. I really don't want to know what they might be doing to my insides. The same thing happens when I eat non-organic apples, but to a slightly lesser degree. We eat a lot of apples in our house; so, we always try to buy organic apples, applesauce and apple juice.

We buy organic carrots and celery because they are readily available nearby and they aren't much more expensive than non-organic alternatives. I wish it were easier to find fresh organic berries because we love berries.

We always try to buy organic lettuces, as well.

We buy organic peanut butter (we like Smuckers natural). It has been proven that peanuts absorb a very high level of pesticides.

We have a great resource for organic free-range eggs. We also have a friend who raises cows (we will have to get a larger freezer!).

We feel like we eat a lot of dairy and need to buy more than just organic yogurt. It is so difficult to justify the cost of a gallon of organic milk (and, for some reason, I am sensitive to ultra-pasterized dairy). The more we learn about ourselves and our food and our earth, the more we try to do what is best.

Three Cheers for Yoga

I love yoga. In college, I started out doing random poses I had pulled out of a magazine. I really enjoyed the stretch and the challenge of each pose.

But, it wasn't until a couple of years ago when I started practicing at a local studio that I really understood the power of the mind, body (and spirit!) connection. After a 90 minute "energy yoga" class, I feel relaxed, rejuvenated, strong and exhilirated! I love that feeling!

I recently told someone practicing yoga made me feel like I had gotten a massage...and, I got to burn calories! It really does!

There are many things I love about yoga. But, one other thing is that I can practice yoga my whole life. There will never (hopefully) be a time when I will have gotten too old. Three cheers for yoga!

Two More Reasons to Clean Green

I never knew the harm I was doing to my body (inside and out) with the chemicals I was using to clean our home. One of the most toxic household cleaners is chlorine bleach. When I would clean our bathroom, I would often have the smell of chlorine in my nose for hours. I am proud to say our home has been chlorine free for over a year. We now use white vinegar, hot water and tea tree oil to disinfect our home, our laundry and more, VERY effectively (MORE effectively, in fact).

Have you ever tried using baking soda to clean your bathtub? Baking soda is good for a lot of things; but, a paste of baking soda and water is THE BEST cleanser for your bathtub. We have an older tub in our old home and it is very difficult to clean. Very difficult. We have tried a slew of various cleansers promising to clean our grime...to no avail...until we used baking soda paste...works every time.

The bonus now, is that my 3-year-old can help me clean the bathroom, safely! (He has only wanted to help me once; but, I do cherish that one time!)

So, I hope I have provided more than two reasons here. Clean green!

Metamorphosis of "Mom"

When my now three-year-old first started talking, I was "mahmm"; and, I remember thinking, I would never get to hear the sweet sound of the word, "mommy"". Well, I was wrong. After awhile, my son added another syllable and I became, "mama". Not long after that, I was, in fact, "mommy".

Now that he is three-and-a-half, I have for some reason again become, "mama". He still calls me "mommy" sometimes; but, more often than not,he addresses me as, "mama".

I have mixed feelings about the day that I will again become, "mom". On one hand, I am so proud of my growing boy. On the other hand, he is growing up and I have to remember to treasure every moment.

My five-month-old has begun muttering, "mah-mah-mah-mah". But, even though I don't think he is yet identifying me as such, I am (patiently) waiting to see what I will be called by my second son.

Contemplating Television

I grew up watching television. Not literally, of course. But, I watched my fair share of television and I know at least a little about all of the shows that have aired in the last 30-some years. I like my television. So, it was a very difficult decision to first cut back to the basic channels (a couple of years ago) and then to make the decision to disconnect cable television all together.

With the digital revolution, there really is no such thing as "free TV" anymore; so, we just watch videos and we have found some good websites from which we can watch some of our favorite shows on the internet (the original networks on which the shows air have the best quality; but, www.hulu.com has a good collection of shows and movies available to view for free). My husband only misses sporting events. Otherwise, we have come to really like this arrangement.

First of all, we are saving $40/month. I have never paid so much for basic cable.

Second, we watch select programs when it is convenient for us; so, we do not have to abide by the television networks' schedules. But, we do have to abide by our childrens' schedules!

Third, we are watching a whole lot less TV. This has been lovely. As a family, we are better tuned in to each other (instead of the television).

So, it is with glad tidings that we bid adieu to PBS (my ultimate fave), HGTV (second runner up), Food Network (close third) and all the rest. If you are worth watching, we will find you. In the meantime, we are busy finding ourselves and each other!

Uphill is really worth it!

Today, we decided to get out and enjoy the warmth of the day. My three-year-old got on his tricycle and off we went! We went down Main Street, down the hill and up again to the bridge. When we got to the top of the hill before the bridge (phew!), my son decided he wanted to turn around and go back down. We did this a total of nine times. I helped him on the way up each time because I loved watching him sail down the hill with glee! I let him decide when he had had enough. Oh, the joy!

And, what a beautiful and truthful metaphor for life. It is hard to go uphill; but, it sure is worth the effort! I believe that hard work should always be balanced with joy!

Vaccination Proclamation

I struggled with the decision to vaccinate my first child (I did end up getting him all of his shots); and now, I find myself struggling again to decide whether or not to vaccinate my second child. The thing is, there is so much information supporting both sides of the argument on whether or not to vaccinate...and, both sides are argued so passionately.

My first child has shown no signs of having an adverse reaction to his shots and for that I am grateful. Even though I have read about the mercury (no longer used) and formaldehyde (it is supposed to be in such small quantities, it is similar to a naturally occuring substance already in our bodies) present in the vaccines, I am most concerned about introducing so many things at once to my baby's sensitive system (and, he is very sensitive...skin, tummy, you name it).

I am also concerned about him interacting with our family that travels out of the country regularly (and, also when we travel ourselves when he gets a little older, for his possible direct exposure to infectious diseases). His doctor said that the things that are currently most dangerous are typhoid fever and hepatitis A; but, he is still too young (4 months) to be innoculated against these two things anyway.

We went ahead with his 2 month shots, after much debate and question; but, we had waited to get his hepatitis B shot until that time and we skipped the flu shot. I don't like vaccinating against the flu because I believe that in doing so, we will create a much more dangerous strain. It is for the same reason we don't use anti-bacterial everything...a few germs are good and they enable us to build natural antibodies to be better able to fight off other sicknesses.

We have decided to hold off on his future shots until he is old enough and has enough blood volume to be tested for antibodies that already exist in his body (he is a breastfed baby, after all) to see if we really need all of them. At that time, we will decide what schedule works for him so that he does not get too many shots at once. This is the best thing I know to do for my child, whom I love so much.

Green Transportation

My husband has vast knowledge about historical events. He also has a way of bringing to light information that helps everything make sense. For instance, I often complain about our country's antiquated rail transportation system (especially compared to Europe and Asia); so, he told me that after the war, the U.S. dedicated their efforts toward building superhighways because America was going to be the "land of the automobile". While that is, in fact, what America has become; it doesn't make sense to me that our country has not chosen to advance and therefore diversify our transportation options.

So, I am delighted to read about a recent push in regard to rail technology in America. Rail is the least expensive transportation method to maintain; and, the high-speed electric rail cars that are already in use elsewhere have zero emissions--a vast difference from traditional automobiles and airplanes. If only we could go around the world on trains!

I look forward to the day when rail transportation in the U.S. is easier and faster (i.e. better) because I believe it will revolutionize the way we think about transportation and the overall effect on the environment. I hope to be riding one of those trains with my kids and, soon!

Tortilla Soup

This soup enables me to use cheaper cuts of chicken and the plethora of tomatoes coming out of the garden at this time of year...yum! Thanks to a friend who asked for the recipe...here it is!


1 dried ancho chile (can be found almost anywhere, especially at a Mexican grocery store)
1/2 c. boiling water
2 T. olive oil
3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 large onion (I use half), diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch coins
2 stalks celery, cut into 1/2 inch slices
3 garlic cloves, peeled and quartered
2 t. ground cumin
6 c. chicken broth
6-8 roma tomatoes, diced (or 2-14.5 oz. cans chopped tomatoes)
1/2 c. loosely packed cilantro leaves
6 corn tortillas (I use white corn tortillas)
Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

For garnish (all optional): Sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream, salsa, lime, and/or cilantro, crispy tortilla strips (made by frying sliced tortillas)

Place chile in bowl, pour boiling water over and let soak 30 minutes. Drain, remove stem and seeds. Slice into 1/2 inch strips and set aside.

In a heavy Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add chicken; season with salt and pepper. Brown on both sides, about 10 minutes total. Add onion, carrots and celery. Continue to cook about 8 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic and cumin and cook an additional 2 minutes. Add broth, reserved chile, tomatoes and cilantro and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer about 15 minutes. Tear 3 tortillas into strips and add to soup. Continue to simmer about 15 more minutes.

With a slotted spoon, remove chicken to a cutting board. Remove soup from heat and puree with an immersion blender (or in small batches in a food processor). With two forks, shred chicken and return to pureed soup. Season soup to taste with salt and pepper.

Enjoy!

Homemade Granola

I adapted a recipe I found online from Better Homes and Gardens (a magazine I never knew I would enjoy reading). I love some granola with my yogurt & berries or just with milk...great any time of year and posted here by request! I make lots of different varieties with nuts and dried fruit and sometimes without cinnamon; but, this one is my favorite.

2 1/2 c. rolled oats
1 c. coconut
1/3 c. sunflower seeds
1/2 c. toasted wheat germ
1/2 c. flaxseed meal
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. packed brown sugar
1/4 c. honey
1 1/2 t. vanilla
1 t. cinnamon
1 c. sliced almonds (or more!)
1 c. dried cranberries

Preheat oven to 300 degree F. Lightly butter the inside of a large roasting pan. Add oatmeal, coconut, sunflower seeds, wheat germ and flaxseed meal. Spread evenly. Bake for 20-45 minutes (original recipe says 20 minutes...I always toast it longer!), stirring often.

In small saucepan, mix butter, brown sugar and honey. Stir occasionally over medium heat until mixture is combined. Remove from heat. Add vanilla and cinnamon.

Remove roasting pan from oven. Turn up the heat to 350 degrees F. Pour warm brown sugar mixture over oatmeal mixture and stir thoroughly with a fork. Bake for 1o minutes more.

Remove from oven and stir in cranberries and almonds. Firmly press granola mixture into pan, making an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes more or until golden brown. Remove pan from oven and place on cooling rack. Remove granola with a spatula and place on foil to cool completely.

Store in an airtight container. Enjoy!!!!

Pride

As my children grow and learn new skills, I notice things that increase their budding self-esteem. I love that my 3 year old has learned to ride a tricycle and races along on the sidewalk and just beams with pride when he looks up as he passes me. His happiness shows more when he is proud of himself.

Of course, we are still working through the agony and frustration (and tantrums) that occur while we are learning new skills. This is a new skill in and of itself--to control our emotions. I have come to find this is a skill I am still learning as well. But, when we are both able to remain calm, we take time to recognize that and take pride in that moment.

My 3 month old is a charmer and learning to communicate his needs with sounds other than crying. He is visibly proud when he is able to control his hands enough to reach out and touch his toy to make a noise. I love this. I love watching my boys grow and learn and be proud of themselves.

Renaissance Perfect Storm

I am an optimist. But, I am also a realist. I take delight in focusing on the good things; but, it does not mean I do not see the bad things.

Doing what I do--reading, observing, experiencing--I have sensed a renaissance of sorts coming upon us. In fact, it has already begun. I feel like people are more "in tune"--to themselves, their families, nature. I feel like more people are paying attention. I feel like more people are taking responsibility for their lives. I feel like no one can stop it.

There are many factors that have enabled this "perfect storm". For one, the media bonanza about all things "green" in the last few years has placed a microscope over our everyday tasks. Thank goodness! It was about time! I love learning new ways to be "green"...which, to me means being more frugal, reusing more, and, becoming more aware of where things come from and where they go.

Another recent development is the downturn in the economy. This has forced us to focus on what is most important to us and pay attention to how we spend our money. This has forced us to make smarter and more informed choices (hopefully).

Besides these things, based solely on observation, I have noticed that the "lost" generation is now "found." And, the next generation is smarter and more worldly than I will ever be (thanks to the internet).

I look forward to embracing this renaissance. I want to continue to pare down and live a simpler life with my husband and sons. I enjoy focusing on what is most important.

I want to leave this world a little better than I found it for the sake of our children and grandchildren . I want to take responsibility and do my part.

I like recalling a Native American proverb that hits home every time, "We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children."

Be One with Nature

Many articles I have been reading lately have been advising us to get back to nature to enhance our inner well being and boost our overall health. If you couldn't think of another reason to put cut flowers in a vase in your home, grow flowers or vegetables in a garden, go for a walk outside, or any of the many other things you can do with and in nature, then just do it to relax!

Everyone in my family loves the outdoors. We sometimes just sit on the front porch (or fall asleep there) and listen to the trees and the birds and feel the wind blow us the sweet and earthy smells of nature.

I love watching our oldest son explore our world--all the bugs, rocks, trees, animals and birds that he discovers on our walks. Now that he can better describe and remember the places we go, I can see and appreciate our wonderful world even more through his eyes and words.

We should be so grateful that we live among such beauty. We should enjoy it, respect it and leave it better than we found it.

Zucchini Bread Recipe

All of my friends are harvesting zucchini from their gardens...we, unfortately, are not. But, I still LOVE zucchini! Enjoy this in-season vegetable on the grill, roasted in the oven (with some garden fresh tomatoes, too!) or in this quickbread.

I altered a Betty Crocker recipe for this one. I often make 3 or more breads at a time…because one cup of zucchini is like 1/3 of a medium large zucchini. I LOVE this bread and it always turns out well…no matter what I substitute…except the sugar (but, I have been known to lessen the amount to ½ or ¾ cups)…the reason it stays moist is because the sugar brings out the juices in the zucchini. I LOVE the lemon zest in here…but, it is optional as are the chocolate chips I add for the kiddies (and me!). This bread freezes very well!

½ c. butter (I sometimes use canola oil)
1 c. sugar
1 c. shredded, unpeeled zucchini
1 egg
¼ t. finely shredded lemon peel
½ c. whole wheat flour*
¼ c. flax seed meal*
¼ c. wheat germ*
½ c. all purpose flour*
1 t. ground cinnamon
½ t. baking soda
¼ t. baking powder
¼ t. salt
¼ t. ground nutmeg

*I vary these amounts based on what I have and how much I am making…always to equal 1 ½ cups.


Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottom and half inch up sides of loaf pan/s (works just as well in an 8x8, too…but, I shorten the cooking time).

In a medium bowl, combine flours, flax seed meal, wheat germ, baking soda, salt, baking powder , nutmeg and cinnamon; set aside.

In another medium bowl, combine zucchini and butter, then add sugar and lemon peel and egg. Combine with dry ingredients. Stir until moistened.

Spoon batter into prepared pan/s. Bake 55-60 minutes (depends on your pan and your oven) until toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely on rack.

Theory behind consumerism

Did you know in order for my cloth diapers to be effectively absorbent, the detergent has to be clean rinsing (no residue)? So, I use Charlie's Soap, http://www.charliesoap.com/ (at the recommendation of my friends and many cloth diaper websites). Because there is no residue, you DON'T NEED fabric softener in the washer or the dryer (leaving more residue to "soften" what was left of the detergent). I honestly did not know that many other detergents leave a residue. Without the need for fabric softener, there is less to buy.

With two young kids and my growing knowledge of all things green, we have begun using a more natural shampoo (98.6% natural ingredients). The first time I used it, it left my hair so soft, I DID NOT NEED conditioner. Hmmm... I tried it again on another day, same thing. My hair had body and was not left limp with the apparent residue intended to be covered (?) by conditioner. So, now, we can soon stop buying fabric softener and conditioner (after we use up what we have...I really don't like to waste!).

Oddly, these things got me thinking about WHY we are buying ever more stuff...and why we think we NEED it all. Mind you, I am not a conspiracy theorist; but, I can't stop thinking about this.

I believe some things were invented to be able to produce enough to have enough jobs for our growing population. I believe it got out of control (when things seemed to be "working" in the gluttenous '80s and people wanted it to continue) and now the "system" is pulling back the reins. I believe there will be new jobs created for things we KNOW we NEED right now instead of producing things we THINK we WANT.

We need better infrastructure in this country and people to build it...not just our roads and bridges and railways (we are so far behind!); but, also our homes. Homes should be built to last centuries not decades...! I definitely don't have all the answers. This is just my humble theory based on knowing a little and observing a lot.

Planned Obsolescence

Have you heard this term? It is used mostly in reference to technology (i.e. electronics, cell phones, computers, etc); but, most recently it was used in reference to CARS.

The question to readers in my Sunday newspaper was, "Do you think they make cars last too long?" What?!? I believe everything should be MADE TO LAST!

We just sold one of our 17-year-old cars because we needed a bigger one to be able to hold the kids and grandpa; and, admittedly, it wasn't working as well anymore (but, it still had a few good years left with proper care and maintenance). We still have our OTHER 17-year-old car; but, it needs a little bodywork. Every time we have taken it to a mechanic, they have asked us to let them know when we sell it (because it has such a well-made engine). I hope it has some mileage left (don't we all?).

BUT, someone out there is saying that we need to be MORE WASTEFUL (with our money and the accumulation of WASTE) to support the consumerism that has consumed our nation.

I never knew that things were not intended to last. I understand the advancements in technology (blah, blah); but, I question the fact that any of these things are making anyone's life any EASIER. I would guess that these things are making our lives harder because the NEED has been created. These things that should just be luxuries for those that can afford them have become NEEDS for everyone (right down to our kids...especially our kids!).

Where did this come from? It is not just the "keeping up with the Joneses" mentality; there is something larger at work here that I have yet to uncover and understand.

Processed Food Malaise

Let me tell you where I am coming from to form my opinions before I share them. I am not an expert on nutrition. I just trust in what I know and have read a lot on the subject of our health, especially as it relates to food.

I have a love of periodicals...and, I am not a "skimmer". I read magazines and newspapers cover to cover. I have read "Readers Digest" at least since the age of 11 and "Self" magazine was a favorite as I got older; now, I am a big fan of "Real Simple", "body & soul" (and many more!) and I never miss reading the Sunday "Chicago Tribune". A lot has been written about the subject of food. Ah, yes...I have also read books on the subject.

I laughed when "experts" advised to eat margarine. And again when they said not to eat eggs. And again when they said they were wrong about eggs.

I hate margarine. Have never eaten it by choice. "New studies show" that hydrogenated anything is probably not good for our bodies. Eggs, however, require NO processing and are as close to nature as they come. I have never stopped eating eggs (and, I hope I never have to!)

I personally prefer to eat foods as close to their natural state as possible (i.e. fresh vegetables and fruit, especially those grown organically and foods made with little, if any, preservatives). I was raised on "homemade" recipes (thanks, mom and grandma!) and I love, love, love to make things from scratch with the freshest possible ingredients! My family does not eat a lot of fattening foods; but, I do use real butter and real cream when I cook...because these foods are closer to their natural state and have no additives and require less processing.

I would like to note that I respect and (sometimes) appreciate other people's choices regarding food. I am just sharing my own.

Honestly, I did not always pay attention to my food...I just ate what I liked...until I became more aware of my body in general (a bit healthier after the college years) and found out I was allergic to onions (causes a stomach ache and sometimes hives) and I have an intolerance for MSG (causes stomach ache and often, severe headaches) and mono and di-glycerides (something new they started adding to foods like bread and ice cream recently that causes stomach aches and a dizzy feeling). So, now I read ingredient labels...all the time! It is crazy what they put into food.

Did you know some cereals have Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) in them? My dad owned a cleaning business and he used TSP to clean walls (still remember what the box looked like!).

Just one more thing for now... Processed food has the ability to TRICK our bodies...trick them into thinking they are not yet full...and lots of other interesting things...! I know for a fact that MSG (which is in a LOT of food, by the way...check your salad dressing, chips and crackers!) is a chemical salt that is intended to enhance the flavor of food but has the added benefit of making you want more! Ugh! Don't even get me started on the woes of High Fructose Corn Syrup (which I can't eat either, by the way).

The neat thing is, the less you eat processed food, the more you notice the difference when you do...hence, my intolerance of certain preservatives and additives. I want to feel great when I eat...because I LOVE food!

Cloth Diapers v. Disposable Diapers

I researched both options (cloth and disposable diapers) before I had my first son and I feel slightly more informed since the birth of my second son, partly because there is more information available and partly because I know where to look (and know more people to ask). I have gleaned information from knowledgeable friends, periodicals, books and the internet (just plug the title of this blog into any search engine). I honestly feel like this is still a conundrum for me.

One of the biggest issues I have with disposable diapers is the contribution to landfill waste. So, I looked into using cloth diapers because my feeling is that reusable items are generally better for the environment. Before the birth of my first son, I tried to find a diaper service. Finding none, I started buying disposable diapers. I did not know there were so many other options to which I have been recently introduced.

What I have also learned is how harmful (to our babies and the environment) the chemicals used to manufacture disposable diapers can be. So, I have committed to trying cloth diapers. They are an investment (per se); so, we are buying a few at a time.

What concerns me also is the fact that because I have to wash these cloth diapers, first to rinse them off and then in the washing machine, I am using more water and detergent. And, the factor that pushes it over the edge is the use of my gas dryer to dry them (studies have shown that unless cloth diapers are line-dried in the sun 100% of the time, they are in fact more harmful to the environment because of the use of electricity and gas). I also don't like using so much water. But, I want to make sure what I put on my baby is clean and sanitized.

I like that I am in control of how clean the cloth diapers are. I like that the ones I chose (http://www.fuzzibunz.com/) are made in the USA. I like that I know what detergents (i.e. chemicals) are used on them.

OK...then, we have disposable diapers again...I found a product that wraps into a reusable cover(http://www.gdiapers.com/) but, when you toss it out it biodegrades in something like 96 hours (as opposed to something like 300 years for typical disposable diapers). This only works if you keep a compost bin. Because, after researching how landfills work (they are kept as dry as possible) it would likely not biodegrade as quickly in a typical landfill (there are some that are better/"greener" than others). These may be worth trying...I will look into the expense.

It is difficult to get away from using plastic (i.e. petroleum-based products) as far as diapering your child goes. The cloth diapers I chose are made with microfiber fleece and a soft waterproof exterior and have plastic snaps. There are wool diapers out there; but, I have not seen them or tried them...only heard about them...

I was also hoping to save money using cloth diapers. We will have to see. My son is only three weeks old.

We are currently using a mix of disposables and cloth diapers. So, my quest to do what is best for my family in harmony with the earth continues on a trial and error basis.

Recipe to share for Strawberry Season

We love to eat what is in season...not only because it is fabulously fresh and delicious, but also because it is the best thing for the environment! Since strawberries are in season right now, I thought I would share one of my family's favorite quickbread recipes. I altered a recipe I found at allrecipes.com! Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS
2 cups fresh strawberries
1 1/8 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups wheat flour
1/4 cup flax seed meal
1/4 cup wheat germ
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups canola oil
4 eggs, beaten
1 1/4 cups chopped pecans (optional, my son does not like nuts in his bread)

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter and flour two 9 x 5 inch loaf pans.
Slice strawberries, and place in medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle lightly with sugar, and set aside while preparing bread mixture.
Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt and baking soda in large bowl: mix well. Blend oil and eggs into strawberries. Add strawberry mixture to flour mixture, blending until dry ingredients are just moistened. Stir in pecans. Divide batter into pans.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until tester inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pans on wire rack for 10 minutes. Turn loaves out, and cool completely.

It's a Wonderful World

At home, early in the morning on Monday, May 11, we welcomed our second healthy, beautiful son into our family (and our world).

While we are still adjusting to being a family of four, it is a wonderful time. Challenging. Embraceable. Warm. Loving. Remarkable.

We are content, beginning this transition with a "staycation". It is wonderful to have our own pace to our days...

In brief snippets, I notice the beautiful colors of spring...the "limey" green of the new leaves, the deep, bright colors of tulips and daffodils...

I love all the smells, too...freshly mown grass, the wet, earthy air...

And, the sounds...birds always singing...

Our first son was born in March. Our second son was born in May. Spring is a beautiful, bountiful, joyous time of year. Yes, I am a mother in love...

Buying vs. Saving

My husband and I started "fixing" our money mistakes shortly before we ever started dating. We learned some things from our parents (they did the best they could); but, most of what we know now was learned by trial and error. We have made a lot of mistakes!

I am fortunate that I learned how to get the best quality for the lowest price. Shop around. Ask questions. Do your homework. I am good at this.

I know which stores carry good quality at low prices. I remember the prices for things I buy regularly; and, when I can, I wait to stock up when things are on sale. I clip coupons and read ingredients (very important). I am good at this, too.

Here are some of the websites I keep in my "favorites":
http://www.restaurant.com/ (to get gift certificates for less than their face value)
http://www.couponmom.com/ (I find a lot of coupons I can print for things I use often)http://www.oldnavyweekly.com/ (to get coupons for clothes for my family) http://www.mambosprouts.com/ (for all kinds of deals on organic food and more)
I also often search for "coupon codes" and "coupons" for online or in-store purchases (sometimes related to the store, sometimes related to the product). Onr that has worked is, http://www.retailmenot.com/. There are a lot of resources out there to save money on the things we do buy!

Being "green", I also love garage sales and scoping out the best resale shops!

But, what I have often forgotten to ask myself is, "Do I really need this?" I have the money, yes. I am getting the best quality for the best price, yes. But, do I really need it?

Instant gratification. Sounds satisfying, doesn't it? Only, it isn't. Unfortunately, we both watched our parents spend everything they had. We had to learn the hard way (still learning, by the way) how to budget, save for the future and NOT spend everything we make.

Stay at Home Mom

I love staying at home with my son (and, I can't wait to experience full-time mothering with our baby on the way!) It hasn't been long...just a little over a month...and, I have noticed differences in myself and my son (good ones!).

After I had my son, I wanted so much to be with him as much as possible; but, I was torn between him and my job for three years. I was fortunate to be able to stay with him three and a half days a week and go to the office three and a half days. At first, I worked at home for a day and a half; and, after two years, I cut my hours by about the same.

It was satisfying to feel like I had it "all" for a short while; but, the yearning to be there for my son full-time became unbelievably strong. With another child on the way, I knew it was time.

Many of our friends and acquaintances were surprised at my decision. Often, people give me a look of disbelief when I tell them that I am much busier now than when I was working.

I feel so fortunate.

I've got to say, this is the hardest (mentally and physically) and most rewarding job you will never find in the "want ads". It is in my nature to strive to do the best I can, always. A few years ago, I pictured myself as a "working mom". I am so grateful to be a stay-at-home mom. I hope I will do well at this important job!

Slow Parenting

This term, "slow parenting" is one that I am currently researching; and, I like what I have found so far! I will have to check out Carl Honore's books, “The Power of Slow: Finding Balance and Fulfillment Beyond the Cult of Speed,” and, more recently, “Under Pressure: Rescuing Our Children from the Culture of Hyper-Parenting." I found his books referenced in an article written by Lisa Belkin, for the NY Times (http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/what-is-slow-parenting/).

In the same article, Honore defines his concept that has been coined, "slow parenting":

"“Slow” in this context does not mean doing everything at a snail’s pace. It means doing everything at the right speed. That implies quality over quantity; real and meaningful human connections; being present and in the moment.

To me, Slow parenting is about bringing balance into the home. Children need to strive and struggle and stretch themselves, but that does not mean childhood should be a race. Slow parents give their children plenty of time and space to explore the world on their own terms. They keep the family schedule under control so that everyone has enough downtime to rest, reflect and just hang out together. They accept that bending over backwards to give children the best of everything may not always be the best policy. Slow parenting means allowing our children to work out who they are rather than what we want them to be.

Slow parents understand that childrearing should not be a cross between a competitive sport and product-development. It is not a project; it’s a journey. Slow parenting is about giving kids lots of love and attention with no conditions attached."

My husband and I decided a long time ago that we wanted our lives (and our children's lives) to be a collection of experiences, as opposed to material things. In changing our focus from "keeping up with the Joneses" to "setting our own pace", we have been better able to appreciate the little things and live more fully in each moment. This too makes us more conscious of our actions on the surrounding environment, be it a park, a home, other people, etc... Everything we do and say has an impact on everyone and everything around us. We just need to pay attention.

It seems like we may have already begun, "slow parenting." We will strive to do the best we can and enable our son (and soon our other child) to discover the world and themselves at their own pace. It is a beautiful thing.