Figuring out where and how to hang a picture is an art in and of itself. There isn’t just one correct way to do it. A quick Google search will reveal any number of ‘how tos” along with video for hanging pictures. Whatever method is chosen, the object is to get our photos, posters, and artwork on the … Continue reading Tips for Hanging Pictures Perfectly
During the month of March, quilting and crafting are given recognition nationally as a time to celebrate and appreciate the two artistic forms and the benefits derived by using individual talents to create. It may be no coincidence that the two commemorate hands-on activities in the same month. Both require skill, creativity, supplies and/or equipment, … Continue reading Celebrating Quilting and Crafting
March is National Celery Month. Even though celery may not be one of the most exciting foods to blog about, there are plenty of good reasons to. Celery is an amazingly versatile vegetable that can provide so many benefits for you and your family. Besides, it is a favorite food of mine and has been … Continue reading ‘Celerybrating’ Celery
Does anything in the world smell quite so good as a just-baked loaf of bread? If you’ve never made yeast bread before, an adventure awaits! And prepare yourself for one of the great “dramas” of kitchen science! Every ‘drama’ is made up of various parts—cast, script, and various acts. Bread baking is no exception. The … Continue reading Yeast Bread Baking – A Kitchen Science ‘Drama’
Pie has been a proverbial favorite beginning with the ancient Egyptians according to the American Pie Council. Despite its long history, pie baking has been held in such awe that the process has become intimidating for some. In two previous pie baking blogs, tips on ingredients and equipment and making a pastry crust have been shared. … Continue reading Pie Baking – Fill ‘Er Up!
Its aronia berry picking time in Iowa! And if you are lucky enough to live near a pick-your-own aronia berry orchard, you are in for a day of fun and stained hands! Fresh berries, juice and other aronia products may also be available now in some local grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Aronia harvest happens … Continue reading Aronia Berries – Old Fruit with a New Name
Pickle making is just around the corner. With it comes lots of questions regarding pickle crispness, the essence of a good pickle. There are several factors that determine pickle crispness including variety, freshness, preparation techniques, ingredients, and processing method. Variety. First and foremost, use true pickling cucumbers for pickling. Salad cucumbers were never intended for … Continue reading Here’s to Crisp Pickles!
Reusable grocery bags have become widely used as consumer seek to reduce waste, protect the environment, and save on bag fees. Are reusable bags really safe? Reusable grocery bags are a smart choice but may come with some risk. Depending upon how the bags are used and the items they may carry, the bags may … Continue reading Caring for Reusable Bags to Prevent Illness
Vitamin D is vital to proper bodily functions. While sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, spending time outdoors in the sunlight may be limited or not possible. In cases of limited sunlight, alternative ways to get the daily intake of Vitamin D may be necessary. Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin essential … Continue reading Vitamin D Need and Source
It has been such an odd winter, with temperatures rising and falling and no real snow cover. I always have my bird feeders out in the winter but the lack of actual winter weather had me wondering if it was still necessary to feed the birds. I wondered what information was available through our Extension … Continue reading Feeding birds
