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.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
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!
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!
Monday, June 1, 2009
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.
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.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
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...
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...
Saturday, May 9, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
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!
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!
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