The Motivation Factor
Ive never been one for resolutions, mainly because I never keep them.
But goals are a whole different ball game. Goals can be measured, they can be changed, but most of all, they can be extremely motivating.
For as long as I can remember, Ive set goals for myself. You could even call them deadlines.
No matter the project or how big or small it is, I always set goals for myself. This not only gets me motivated and writing, it also gives me guidelines that allow me to plan even more projects. This is a great way to keep moving ahead.
Perhaps I should go back further
Before I ever got any of my work published, goals were one of the biggest factors in working toward publication. Back then my sights were set on much smaller achievements at any given time. In those early days I received one of the best pieces of advice Ive ever had take baby steps. In other words, dont try to take on too much at once, ruining your chances of achieving that goal.
That priceless advice has stayed with me for many years, and I dont think Ill ever forget it.
Baby steps helped tremendously in achieving what I set out to do, and setting goals was definitely one of the vital stepping stones to publication.
Start by working out what it is you want to achieve the end result. In my case I started reasonably small and worked my way up. I gave myself twelve months to get just one short story published. That happened.
Then I decided to have two short stories published in the following twelve months. That goal became a reality as well.
Next I wanted a regular column. This time I gave myself two years to secure a regular monthly column. Although I achieved my previous goals, I didnt really work all that hard at getting results. This time I had more at stake because Id just had to give up my day job due to a medical condition so worked harder at achieving the goal.
Brainstorming was my starting point. What could the column be about? Once the subject matter was decided, I wrote up some sample articles, taking as much care with them as I would have if the column was secured and they were going to be published.
Next was the market research. I found six magazines that I believed would be suitable for my column, then sent them off with a covering letter.
Then it was time to sit back and wait.
I lucked out with all six publications, but didnt give up. With my goals still intact, the search for a regular column continued. A couple of months later, my goal was met way within the timeframe Id set myself.
I know for a fact that if I hadnt set a goal, written it down, and had it clearly on display for others to see, that I absolutely would not have continued on my quest.
Its no good setting goals for yourself if no-one knows about them. If you have internal goals, what are you going to measure them against? You can fool yourself about the dates, change the deadline to suit yourself, but if its on display for all to see, the goal needs to be either met or worked toward.
When Im working on a book that isnt yet contracted, I tell my writing buddy as well as family and friends the deadline Ive set for myself. That makes me accountable for a finish date. It also gets me off my butt and working.
Sometimes goals need to be changed. This happened a few years ago when I fractured both feet in three places.
I was working on a novel and had been fiddling about too much. Excuses were easy, and it just didnt get done. So I set a goal of six months. Then the fractures occurred. I was in way too much pain to write, so the goal was moved up six months. But I hadnt counted on being on crutches for six months, so I moved the goal yet again. This time I met my self imposed deadline.
Heres a checklist to assist you in your goal-setting:
Be specific about what you want to achieve. Instead of saying I want to finish a book by October state my 120,000 word fantasy novel will be completed by October, including all editing.
o Break this goal into smaller chunksbaby steps of say 3,000 words per week. (Using 120,000 words as your basis, if you divide that by 3,000 words, it will take 40 weeks to write this book. Or 5,000 words a week means it will take just 24 weeks.)
o Setting yourself an actual word count will allow you to understand exactly how much you need to achieve each week to meet your goal. Not taking this step leaves you wide open to missing your deadline. Giving yourself an achievable goal means you are more likely to reach your goal.
The results must be measurable, otherwise how do you or others know youve achieved what you set out to do?
Is the goal attainable? Dont set your sights too high. Always work within your own abilities, otherwise you will become disheartened.
o Keeping ahead of your goal allows for all those life situations that you may (and probably will) encounter. It will also encourage you to stick to your plan of writing X number of words per week.
Always give yourself an end date. This gives you a specific time-frame to work with.
Review your goals and your project throughout the period youre working on it. Assess your ability to finish within your goal. Dont set yourself up for a fall not only can it be disheartening, it could leave you with a bad feeling toward goal setting.
Use your electronic diary to its full advantage. Make little reminder notes to assist with the smooth progression of the project. Alternatively, use a yearly wall planner one that can be displayed in a prominent position.
I use a combination of these, plus a print diary that has a day to a page. That way I can scribble little reminders of things I specifically need to do each day, or things I need to follow up.
Now heres something you may not have heard of before. Its simple but effective.
Take a large piece of cardboard and draw a large thermometer. If you have more than one project on the go, draw a thermometer for each project. What you need is something that looks like a real thermometer with a bulbous bottom and two straight sides; you often see these used for charity fund-raisers.
Make your thermometer 6 or 7 cms wide by about 50-60 cms tall. Write your total word count at the top, with markings at regular intervals of say 2 cms to measure your progress. (I mark mine at 5,000 word increments, but use whatever suits your specific needs.)
As you achieve the word count, colour from the last level you achieved to the next. I find that watching the progression of the thermometer is a big motivator in getting to the next level. One recent project progressed from not being started, to one third written in just three weeks using this system.
If you need motivation to finish (or start) your projects, or even if you dont, set doable goals and go for it! Youll be very glad you did.
*Download your goals worksheet by clicking the following link:
http://www.writer2writer.com/FreeDownload/Setting_Goals_Worksheet.pdf
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
New Innovations
How do you produce ideas for new innovations? Here is a great technique: Extract some basic ideas from existing products and inventions, and then apply them to new areas.
If you look at a thermostat, for example, you might think "A device to control the indoor climate." This is certainly an idea that can be used to come up with something new. You have to look a little deeper, though, if you want more creative innovations. Continue with, "It measures the temperature and then, using that information, turns the heater on or off, to keep the house comfortable."
Continuing even deeper, we see that it uses measurement in order to control something. Let's work with that concept. With the technology that exists today, we can make things happen automatically, according to almost anything we can automatically measure. This is a powerful concept that can and will lead to some fantastic new innovations.
In an article on thought control, I pointed out that since we can measure the changing activity of the brain as we change the nature of our thoughts, we can already build a device that is operated just by our thoughts. Even with the technology of thirty years ago, we could have had a TV turn on whenever one's pulse rate increased. If you then trained yourself to increase your pulse rate by thinking certain thoughts, you could turn on a television with your thoughts.
Other New Innovations
To have many such ideas and new innovations, just look around and start applying the basic concept of control by measurement. Looking at the television, and thinking of measurable things related to it, time is an obvious one. There are "sleep timers" that turn the TV off after a certain amount of time, but how about a device that only allows the TV to be on for three hours in any given day? Kids can watch when they want, but they won't be able to watch too much.
A thermometer gives me the idea for a sign that changes it's message according to the weather. A restaurant, for example, could have the sign say "Come in out of the cold," when it was cold, or "Cool off with an ice cold drink," when it was hot, and so on. I'm sure there are other businesses whose messages would be variously more or less effective according to the weather.
When I look at the traffic, I see that speed can be measured. There are already those radar signs now, that tell you how fast you are going. There could be a sign down the road that says "Slow down, we're taking your picture," or the radar gun could turn on a fake siren whenever someone goes ten miles per hour over the limit. The idea is simply that their speed triggers something that will hopefully slow them down.
Yesterday I saw a new invention that measures your girth. So what does it do with that information? Well, if you hold your stomach in, you get clear sound in your headphones. If you let your stomach hang out, the music is low quality and loses volume. While I'm not sure how well this stomach-exercise-motivator will sell, it does show how using the concept of measurement to control can lead to very different innovations. In fact, any application of a basic concept to new areas can lead to new innovations.
How do you produce ideas for new innovations? Here is a great technique: Extract some basic ideas from existing products and inventions, and then apply them to new areas.
If you look at a thermostat, for example, you might think "A device to control the indoor climate." This is certainly an idea that can be used to come up with something new. You have to look a little deeper, though, if you want more creative innovations. Continue with, "It measures the temperature and then, using that information, turns the heater on or off, to keep the house comfortable."
Continuing even deeper, we see that it uses measurement in order to control something. Let's work with that concept. With the technology that exists today, we can make things happen automatically, according to almost anything we can automatically measure. This is a powerful concept that can and will lead to some fantastic new innovations.
In an article on thought control, I pointed out that since we can measure the changing activity of the brain as we change the nature of our thoughts, we can already build a device that is operated just by our thoughts. Even with the technology of thirty years ago, we could have had a TV turn on whenever one's pulse rate increased. If you then trained yourself to increase your pulse rate by thinking certain thoughts, you could turn on a television with your thoughts.
Other New Innovations
To have many such ideas and new innovations, just look around and start applying the basic concept of control by measurement. Looking at the television, and thinking of measurable things related to it, time is an obvious one. There are "sleep timers" that turn the TV off after a certain amount of time, but how about a device that only allows the TV to be on for three hours in any given day? Kids can watch when they want, but they won't be able to watch too much.
A thermometer gives me the idea for a sign that changes it's message according to the weather. A restaurant, for example, could have the sign say "Come in out of the cold," when it was cold, or "Cool off with an ice cold drink," when it was hot, and so on. I'm sure there are other businesses whose messages would be variously more or less effective according to the weather.
When I look at the traffic, I see that speed can be measured. There are already those radar signs now, that tell you how fast you are going. There could be a sign down the road that says "Slow down, we're taking your picture," or the radar gun could turn on a fake siren whenever someone goes ten miles per hour over the limit. The idea is simply that their speed triggers something that will hopefully slow them down.
Yesterday I saw a new invention that measures your girth. So what does it do with that information? Well, if you hold your stomach in, you get clear sound in your headphones. If you let your stomach hang out, the music is low quality and loses volume. While I'm not sure how well this stomach-exercise-motivator will sell, it does show how using the concept of measurement to control can lead to very different innovations. In fact, any application of a basic concept to new areas can lead to new innovations.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Let's Pretend
Children explore the world around them and learn through pretend play. With so many passive activities like watching TV and playing video games, we sometimes need to encourage our children to pretend play. Here are a few suggestions on how to get those creative juices flowing for both you and your child.
Dress Up Box
Put a dress up box together with some of your old dresses, jackets, blouses, old Halloween costumes, etc. Dont forget to throw in some fun accessories as well, such as purses, hats, wigs, scarves, gloves. etc.
If you cant find much around the house, look around at some yard sales and the Goodwill and Salvation Army stores. Youll be able to find some great dress up clothes for your kids for next to nothing.
You may also get requests for some unusual accessories like space helmets, crowns, etc. Be creative and look around the house. A colander makes a cool helmet and you can form a sparkling crown out of aluminum foil.
Veterinarian
All youll need is any of the stuffed animals your kids already have plus some bandages. You can substitute an empty pen to serve as a thermometer or syringe. A pair of headphones can quickly be turned into a stethoscope by taping a plastic bottle cap to the jack.
Grocery Store
You can quickly put a grocery store together on a low shelf or side table. All youll need is a basket and several empty cereal and rice boxes. Add a few canned goods and some dry beans, and you're all set. You can also draw up your own money on pieces of paper and cut some coins out of cardboard. Ask your child to help you color them. Take turns with your child being the shopper or the storekeeper.
Library
When your child gets bored of playing store, turn the grocery store into a library. Make up a library card for every family member and add a small piece of paper into each of your childs books. If your child cannot read or write yet, draw a symbol for each family member, or use a different color. When someone checks out a book from the family library, ask the child to record who took it and when it is due back in. You can also ask your child to sort the books either by topic or alphabetically.
Firefighter
Have your kids turn an empty cardboard box into a fire truck. They can color it and draw tires on with markers or cut out shapes from construction paper. Paint an empty clean can (like a coffee can) blue to use as an emergency light. You can have them make a police car, ambulance or garbage truck. Youll soon have your children pretend play to be a fire fighter, police officer, etc.
Lets Cook
All youll need are a few pots and pans, some wooden spoons, and if youd like, some dry rice or beans. Your kids can also draw shapes of favorite foods on construction paper and color them with crayons or markers. After that, let the pretending begin. Encourage your child to pretend cook in the kitchen with you while you are fixing dinner. It will keep him or her occupied, while you can still keep an eye on him or her.
Puppets
One of the most versatile pretend play toys are puppets. You can easily make them yourself. Take a look at these finger puppets (http://www.kinderinfo.com/crafts/fingerpuppets.htm) and handkerchief puppets (http://www.kinderinfo.com/crafts/handkerchief-puppet.htm). There is also a huge array of puppets from people to animals commercially available. Puppets will allow your child to recreate situations of everyday life and to explore different points of view. Watching them when they play with their puppets will give also give you a glimpse at how they see the world. Do you really say, Please dont do that that often?
Give your child the means and a little bit of encouragement to pretend play and theyll run with it. Our children are so observatory of their surroundings and also have tons of imagination. Youll enjoy watching them and interacting with them as they explore their world through pretend play.
Children explore the world around them and learn through pretend play. With so many passive activities like watching TV and playing video games, we sometimes need to encourage our children to pretend play. Here are a few suggestions on how to get those creative juices flowing for both you and your child.
Dress Up Box
Put a dress up box together with some of your old dresses, jackets, blouses, old Halloween costumes, etc. Dont forget to throw in some fun accessories as well, such as purses, hats, wigs, scarves, gloves. etc.
If you cant find much around the house, look around at some yard sales and the Goodwill and Salvation Army stores. Youll be able to find some great dress up clothes for your kids for next to nothing.
You may also get requests for some unusual accessories like space helmets, crowns, etc. Be creative and look around the house. A colander makes a cool helmet and you can form a sparkling crown out of aluminum foil.
Veterinarian
All youll need is any of the stuffed animals your kids already have plus some bandages. You can substitute an empty pen to serve as a thermometer or syringe. A pair of headphones can quickly be turned into a stethoscope by taping a plastic bottle cap to the jack.
Grocery Store
You can quickly put a grocery store together on a low shelf or side table. All youll need is a basket and several empty cereal and rice boxes. Add a few canned goods and some dry beans, and you're all set. You can also draw up your own money on pieces of paper and cut some coins out of cardboard. Ask your child to help you color them. Take turns with your child being the shopper or the storekeeper.
Library
When your child gets bored of playing store, turn the grocery store into a library. Make up a library card for every family member and add a small piece of paper into each of your childs books. If your child cannot read or write yet, draw a symbol for each family member, or use a different color. When someone checks out a book from the family library, ask the child to record who took it and when it is due back in. You can also ask your child to sort the books either by topic or alphabetically.
Firefighter
Have your kids turn an empty cardboard box into a fire truck. They can color it and draw tires on with markers or cut out shapes from construction paper. Paint an empty clean can (like a coffee can) blue to use as an emergency light. You can have them make a police car, ambulance or garbage truck. Youll soon have your children pretend play to be a fire fighter, police officer, etc.
Lets Cook
All youll need are a few pots and pans, some wooden spoons, and if youd like, some dry rice or beans. Your kids can also draw shapes of favorite foods on construction paper and color them with crayons or markers. After that, let the pretending begin. Encourage your child to pretend cook in the kitchen with you while you are fixing dinner. It will keep him or her occupied, while you can still keep an eye on him or her.
Puppets
One of the most versatile pretend play toys are puppets. You can easily make them yourself. Take a look at these finger puppets (http://www.kinderinfo.com/crafts/fingerpuppets.htm) and handkerchief puppets (http://www.kinderinfo.com/crafts/handkerchief-puppet.htm). There is also a huge array of puppets from people to animals commercially available. Puppets will allow your child to recreate situations of everyday life and to explore different points of view. Watching them when they play with their puppets will give also give you a glimpse at how they see the world. Do you really say, Please dont do that that often?
Give your child the means and a little bit of encouragement to pretend play and theyll run with it. Our children are so observatory of their surroundings and also have tons of imagination. Youll enjoy watching them and interacting with them as they explore their world through pretend play.
Cooking a Turkey Cajun Style; Super Secret Recipe
Have you ever tried a Turkey Cajun Style; they are quite good. Perhaps you might want to take advantage as the unsold Turkeys go on sale right after Thanksgiving and that is generally a lot of meat per weight for the price. Let me tell you of one way to cook a 11-16 pound Turkey Cajun Style and you will absolutely love it.
First get a five-gallon pale of peanut oil, which is enough to soak your Turkey in. You will want to make sure it is totally under the peanut oil submerged. Then you will need some Creole Seasoning, one good brand is Tony Chachere. You will need a large pot big enough to submerge your Turkey and a way to raise and lower the turkey and a thermometer. Heat the oil with the seasoning in it to 350 degrees. Then cook your turkey by frying it for about 36 minutes to an hour based on the size of the turkey.
If the thing catches on fire raise the Turkey, put out the fire and start again, realizing to stop the timer. Be sure not to burn down the house. This Turkey will serve between 8-10 men, or athletic types. Only cool people make Cajun Turkey this way. Please do not share this Secret Recipe with anyone else. Thanks.
Have you ever tried a Turkey Cajun Style; they are quite good. Perhaps you might want to take advantage as the unsold Turkeys go on sale right after Thanksgiving and that is generally a lot of meat per weight for the price. Let me tell you of one way to cook a 11-16 pound Turkey Cajun Style and you will absolutely love it.
First get a five-gallon pale of peanut oil, which is enough to soak your Turkey in. You will want to make sure it is totally under the peanut oil submerged. Then you will need some Creole Seasoning, one good brand is Tony Chachere. You will need a large pot big enough to submerge your Turkey and a way to raise and lower the turkey and a thermometer. Heat the oil with the seasoning in it to 350 degrees. Then cook your turkey by frying it for about 36 minutes to an hour based on the size of the turkey.
If the thing catches on fire raise the Turkey, put out the fire and start again, realizing to stop the timer. Be sure not to burn down the house. This Turkey will serve between 8-10 men, or athletic types. Only cool people make Cajun Turkey this way. Please do not share this Secret Recipe with anyone else. Thanks.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Sauna Accessories for an Even Better Sauna Bath
Every experienced sauna bather knows how valuable the right sauna accessories can be. Oftentimes, it is these accoutrements that make the difference between a sauna session that is second-rate and one that is truly superior. Used properly, sauna accessories can help a sauna bather create the perfect ambience for a relaxing and refreshing soak in the soothing heat of a sauna.
The following is a list of some of the more common sauna accessories used by sauna enthusiasts around the world:
Loofah sponges When used as a bath sponge, the loofah, a very popular item in Asian baths and European spas, is known to produce a mild glow and to revitalize the skin. It is a natural, organic, cleansing sponge that is also known for improving blood circulation, exfoliating dead skin cells, and promoting healthy skin. The blood circulation the loofah sponge induces on the skin has been credited as a relief for rheumatic and arthritic sufferers. Loofah is environmentally safe, biodegradable, and a renewable resource.
Sauna brushes Many sauna enthusiasts enjoy scrubbing their bodies with sauna brushes as they sweat in the sauna heat. Regardless of whether the brush has a long handle for those hard-to-reach places, a detachable handle or no handle at all, a sauna brush is a good tool for helping to cleanse and massage a sauna bathers skin. The soft natural bristles of most sauna brushes aid skin exfoliation and can contribute greatly to a sauna session that is refreshing and invigorating for the bather. Using a sauna brush properly can also improve blood circulation, so theres really no good reason to not have a sauna brush among your sauna accessories.
Sauna buckets Also commonly referred to as sauna pails, sauna buckets are used to hold water in traditional Finnish-style rock saunas. Many experienced sauna bathers prefer their sauna buckets to be made of cedar, pine or copper. If you purchase an all-wooden sauna pail, be sure to empty it after each use and to store it upside down. As well, since intense heat can make wood expand and contract, you might want to consider buying a liner for your sauna bucket to help prevent leakage.
Sauna fragrances and essences Eucalyptus, birch, pine, spruce, wintergreen, menthol, lemon and lime are just some of the deeply appealing scents available in todays all-natural sauna fragrances. Add a few drops of sauna fragrance to your loyly water and surrender yourself to the olfactory ecstasy. Why not combine sauna therapy and aromatherapy for a powerful one-two punch of pure sensory pleasure?
Sauna headrests and backrests Complete comfort in a sauna can be achieved through the use of these important accessories. A sauna headrest or pillow gently cushions the head of a reclining bather, while a sauna backrest offers support, relief and luxury to, as its name suggests, the persons back. Headrests and backrests can also serve effectively as footrests, if desired by the sauna bather.
Sauna ladles Sometimes called sauna dippers, sauna ladles are as essential to proper traditional sauna bathing as sauna buckets. It is a dipper or two of water tossed over the hot sauna rocks of a Finnish sauna that creates the vapor or loyly that many purists insist helps define an authentic sauna bath. Any water applied to the rocks in a sauna heater should be done using a dipper or ladle. Doing so keeps your hand away from the resulting steam, preventing a possible steam burn, and it helps you better control how much water you pour onto the sauna rocks and, in turn, the level of humidity in the sauna. Although many sauna ladles are made entirely of wood, some feature copper or stainless steel scoops and cedar, birch or pine handles. Some ladles also come with attached leather straps.
Sauna peg racks Sauna peg racks are recommended for anyone who wants a place near or in the sauna room to hang their towel or bathrobe. Wooden racks with four, five or six dowel peg hooks are popular with bathers who enjoy the company of family or friends in their sauna. Peg racks such as these are sometimes called clothes racks or towel racks. Another word commonly used to describe a peg rack is hanger.
Sauna soap Regular soap may be too harsh for some sauna bathers, but sauna soap is specifically intended for tender sensitive skin and can be very effective under sauna conditions. Long-lasting, hypo-allergenic soap with either a birch or pine fragrance is a popular choice of many hot sauna devotees. Additional bath and body products can be used either before or after a sauna session to help cleanse and moisturize your skin.
Sauna timers Sauna bathers use timers to help them keep track of how long theyre in the sauna and ensure that they not spend too much time in the heat. Traditionalists may prefer the simplicity of a 15-minute sand timer, while folks with contemporary tastes may rely on a 90-minute electronic timer or the more modern, programmable device that often comes as part of a sleekly designed control panel and offers time-delay and automatic shut-off safety features. Since wearing a wristwatch in a hot sauna is both impractical and dangerous, the sauna timer can certainly be a useful accessory.
Sauna whisks In Finland, a sauna whisk is called either vihta or vasta. In its most traditional form, the vihta or vasta is a thick bunch of young, tender, leafy birch twigs used to promote blood circulation and cleanse a sauna bathers skin once perspiration has sufficiently softened it. The bather actually flagellates or slaps him or herself with the twigs after dipping them in water. Although the amount of force used usually depends on personal preference, this activity is not supposed to be painful or sexual, and many Finnish sauna enthusiasts see nothing wrong with asking someone else in the sauna to hit them with the twigs. Purists may argue that bundled birch twigs make the best sauna whisks, but, in some countries where birch is hard to find, cedar or pine is sometimes used. Whether the twigs are birch, cedar or pine, the slapping action causes a pleasant aroma to be released into the air. Other possible choices include oak, maple, mountain ash, hazel and eucalyptus.
Thermometers and hygrometers By definition, thermometers measure temperature, by using materials that change in some way when they are heated or cooled. In a mercury or alcohol thermometer, the liquid expands as it is heated and contracts when it is cooled. German physicist Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit invented both the alcohol and mercury thermometer in the early 1700s and introduced the temperature scale that bears his name in 1724. Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius invented the Celsius temperature scale, also known as the centigrade scale, in 1742. A hygrometer measures the moisture content or the humidity of air or any gas. Italian artist, scientist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci built the first crude hygrometer in the 1400s, and Italian physician Francesco Folli invented a more practical one in 1664. As sauna accessories, thermometers and hygrometers are available separately as two items, combined as one, or in package sets. They are vital instruments for any sauna bather who wants to monitor and control the temperature and humidity within a sauna.
Every experienced sauna bather knows how valuable the right sauna accessories can be. Oftentimes, it is these accoutrements that make the difference between a sauna session that is second-rate and one that is truly superior. Used properly, sauna accessories can help a sauna bather create the perfect ambience for a relaxing and refreshing soak in the soothing heat of a sauna.
The following is a list of some of the more common sauna accessories used by sauna enthusiasts around the world:
Loofah sponges When used as a bath sponge, the loofah, a very popular item in Asian baths and European spas, is known to produce a mild glow and to revitalize the skin. It is a natural, organic, cleansing sponge that is also known for improving blood circulation, exfoliating dead skin cells, and promoting healthy skin. The blood circulation the loofah sponge induces on the skin has been credited as a relief for rheumatic and arthritic sufferers. Loofah is environmentally safe, biodegradable, and a renewable resource.
Sauna brushes Many sauna enthusiasts enjoy scrubbing their bodies with sauna brushes as they sweat in the sauna heat. Regardless of whether the brush has a long handle for those hard-to-reach places, a detachable handle or no handle at all, a sauna brush is a good tool for helping to cleanse and massage a sauna bathers skin. The soft natural bristles of most sauna brushes aid skin exfoliation and can contribute greatly to a sauna session that is refreshing and invigorating for the bather. Using a sauna brush properly can also improve blood circulation, so theres really no good reason to not have a sauna brush among your sauna accessories.
Sauna buckets Also commonly referred to as sauna pails, sauna buckets are used to hold water in traditional Finnish-style rock saunas. Many experienced sauna bathers prefer their sauna buckets to be made of cedar, pine or copper. If you purchase an all-wooden sauna pail, be sure to empty it after each use and to store it upside down. As well, since intense heat can make wood expand and contract, you might want to consider buying a liner for your sauna bucket to help prevent leakage.
Sauna fragrances and essences Eucalyptus, birch, pine, spruce, wintergreen, menthol, lemon and lime are just some of the deeply appealing scents available in todays all-natural sauna fragrances. Add a few drops of sauna fragrance to your loyly water and surrender yourself to the olfactory ecstasy. Why not combine sauna therapy and aromatherapy for a powerful one-two punch of pure sensory pleasure?
Sauna headrests and backrests Complete comfort in a sauna can be achieved through the use of these important accessories. A sauna headrest or pillow gently cushions the head of a reclining bather, while a sauna backrest offers support, relief and luxury to, as its name suggests, the persons back. Headrests and backrests can also serve effectively as footrests, if desired by the sauna bather.
Sauna ladles Sometimes called sauna dippers, sauna ladles are as essential to proper traditional sauna bathing as sauna buckets. It is a dipper or two of water tossed over the hot sauna rocks of a Finnish sauna that creates the vapor or loyly that many purists insist helps define an authentic sauna bath. Any water applied to the rocks in a sauna heater should be done using a dipper or ladle. Doing so keeps your hand away from the resulting steam, preventing a possible steam burn, and it helps you better control how much water you pour onto the sauna rocks and, in turn, the level of humidity in the sauna. Although many sauna ladles are made entirely of wood, some feature copper or stainless steel scoops and cedar, birch or pine handles. Some ladles also come with attached leather straps.
Sauna peg racks Sauna peg racks are recommended for anyone who wants a place near or in the sauna room to hang their towel or bathrobe. Wooden racks with four, five or six dowel peg hooks are popular with bathers who enjoy the company of family or friends in their sauna. Peg racks such as these are sometimes called clothes racks or towel racks. Another word commonly used to describe a peg rack is hanger.
Sauna soap Regular soap may be too harsh for some sauna bathers, but sauna soap is specifically intended for tender sensitive skin and can be very effective under sauna conditions. Long-lasting, hypo-allergenic soap with either a birch or pine fragrance is a popular choice of many hot sauna devotees. Additional bath and body products can be used either before or after a sauna session to help cleanse and moisturize your skin.
Sauna timers Sauna bathers use timers to help them keep track of how long theyre in the sauna and ensure that they not spend too much time in the heat. Traditionalists may prefer the simplicity of a 15-minute sand timer, while folks with contemporary tastes may rely on a 90-minute electronic timer or the more modern, programmable device that often comes as part of a sleekly designed control panel and offers time-delay and automatic shut-off safety features. Since wearing a wristwatch in a hot sauna is both impractical and dangerous, the sauna timer can certainly be a useful accessory.
Sauna whisks In Finland, a sauna whisk is called either vihta or vasta. In its most traditional form, the vihta or vasta is a thick bunch of young, tender, leafy birch twigs used to promote blood circulation and cleanse a sauna bathers skin once perspiration has sufficiently softened it. The bather actually flagellates or slaps him or herself with the twigs after dipping them in water. Although the amount of force used usually depends on personal preference, this activity is not supposed to be painful or sexual, and many Finnish sauna enthusiasts see nothing wrong with asking someone else in the sauna to hit them with the twigs. Purists may argue that bundled birch twigs make the best sauna whisks, but, in some countries where birch is hard to find, cedar or pine is sometimes used. Whether the twigs are birch, cedar or pine, the slapping action causes a pleasant aroma to be released into the air. Other possible choices include oak, maple, mountain ash, hazel and eucalyptus.
Thermometers and hygrometers By definition, thermometers measure temperature, by using materials that change in some way when they are heated or cooled. In a mercury or alcohol thermometer, the liquid expands as it is heated and contracts when it is cooled. German physicist Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit invented both the alcohol and mercury thermometer in the early 1700s and introduced the temperature scale that bears his name in 1724. Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius invented the Celsius temperature scale, also known as the centigrade scale, in 1742. A hygrometer measures the moisture content or the humidity of air or any gas. Italian artist, scientist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci built the first crude hygrometer in the 1400s, and Italian physician Francesco Folli invented a more practical one in 1664. As sauna accessories, thermometers and hygrometers are available separately as two items, combined as one, or in package sets. They are vital instruments for any sauna bather who wants to monitor and control the temperature and humidity within a sauna.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
"Soggy Slippers and All"
An optimist is the human personification of spring.
-Susan J. Bissonette
Every day I wake up a little more giddy than the day before. Steaming cup of coffee in hand, I challenge my slippers to take on the dew and head out the door to see, literally, whats new. I give a nod of acceptance that the daffodils whose emergence a few weeks back felt more glorious to me than any 4th of July fireworks show are on their way out.
I wonder if my neighbors think Im nuts. Of course they do, I tell myself. Were the family who moved in, during an ice storm, just ten days before Christmas. Were the family with a giant Santa on the porch before the refrigerator was delivered. We pluck worms off the driveway after the rain and rush them inside (to feed the lizards). They dont even know my name yet, but theyve undoubtedly noticed that I trail behind my kids en route to the bus stop wearing soggy slippers. They know that several times a day I meander around my yard inspecting tiny buds with all the geeky intensity of the Professor on Gilligans Island. Neighbors know all.
They way I see it, a person only gets one springtime in a new house. With every soon-to-be bloom, Im reminded that even though we bought this house because we loved the staircase off the kitchen, every drop of rain and every bump up the thermometer brings a new reason to justify that shiny new mortgage payment. Ive got my eye on a row of bushes outside our bedroom windows that Im hoping are lilacs. In a few days, Ill have my answer.
Even as I marvel at how much a fully wooded lot can add to the natural soundtrack of a homeribbit, chirp, chirp, coo, ribbitI cant help but wonder how Ill feel next spring. (As the author of a book with an ambitious title like Live in the Moment, I continually chastise myself for such thoughts.) Twelve months from now, I will already know what secrets lay beneath the soggy soil -- spring will be the same, old, glorious spring.
The same, old, fragrant awakening from a long, groggy nap with ice-cold toes.
The same, old feast for the eyes as dogwood blossoms burst from mere sticks.
The same, old sense of liberation for bare arms as they surface from somewhere within and feel the warmth of the sun instead of washable wools.
Okay. So maybe worrying about next spring is a waste of precious energy. Maybe I have better things to ponder before they vanish! I hear a woodpecker and I need to know which tree hes in
Activity Exercise: Walk around your yard (in your slippers?) and try to see the awakening of your own personal world as if its for the very first time. Even if you live in a warm climate, something new is happening out there and wouldnt you hate to miss it?
An optimist is the human personification of spring.
-Susan J. Bissonette
Every day I wake up a little more giddy than the day before. Steaming cup of coffee in hand, I challenge my slippers to take on the dew and head out the door to see, literally, whats new. I give a nod of acceptance that the daffodils whose emergence a few weeks back felt more glorious to me than any 4th of July fireworks show are on their way out.
I wonder if my neighbors think Im nuts. Of course they do, I tell myself. Were the family who moved in, during an ice storm, just ten days before Christmas. Were the family with a giant Santa on the porch before the refrigerator was delivered. We pluck worms off the driveway after the rain and rush them inside (to feed the lizards). They dont even know my name yet, but theyve undoubtedly noticed that I trail behind my kids en route to the bus stop wearing soggy slippers. They know that several times a day I meander around my yard inspecting tiny buds with all the geeky intensity of the Professor on Gilligans Island. Neighbors know all.
They way I see it, a person only gets one springtime in a new house. With every soon-to-be bloom, Im reminded that even though we bought this house because we loved the staircase off the kitchen, every drop of rain and every bump up the thermometer brings a new reason to justify that shiny new mortgage payment. Ive got my eye on a row of bushes outside our bedroom windows that Im hoping are lilacs. In a few days, Ill have my answer.
Even as I marvel at how much a fully wooded lot can add to the natural soundtrack of a homeribbit, chirp, chirp, coo, ribbitI cant help but wonder how Ill feel next spring. (As the author of a book with an ambitious title like Live in the Moment, I continually chastise myself for such thoughts.) Twelve months from now, I will already know what secrets lay beneath the soggy soil -- spring will be the same, old, glorious spring.
The same, old, fragrant awakening from a long, groggy nap with ice-cold toes.
The same, old feast for the eyes as dogwood blossoms burst from mere sticks.
The same, old sense of liberation for bare arms as they surface from somewhere within and feel the warmth of the sun instead of washable wools.
Okay. So maybe worrying about next spring is a waste of precious energy. Maybe I have better things to ponder before they vanish! I hear a woodpecker and I need to know which tree hes in
Activity Exercise: Walk around your yard (in your slippers?) and try to see the awakening of your own personal world as if its for the very first time. Even if you live in a warm climate, something new is happening out there and wouldnt you hate to miss it?
Shih Tzu/Dogs/First Aid
Goals of first aid are: Keep your safety in mind at all times. Attend to any severe bleeding that is present. Administer CPR if needed. Immobilize injuries and/or pet for transport. Take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Delay in seeking professional help often increase costs and decreases treatment success.
When you do encounter an emergency situation, do not panic! Look around your surroundings to be sure there are no moving vehicles, broken glass, chemical spills, fire and electrical hazards. Approach the injured or ill pet slowly and with caution. Use a calm reassuring voice. You might need to apply a muzzle. Injured or ill animals might bite out of pain or fear. If this occurs, don't take it personally and don't feel like your animal is now vicious or worthless and needs to be gotten rid of. Be understanding that the animal is under extreme stress and hardly knows what to do himself.
Never use a muzzle on an animal that is vomiting, choking, convulsing or having breathing difficulties. If you cannot muzzle, use heavy-duty gloves or drape a blanket or thick towel over the animal's head prior to handling.
Determine whether a life-threatening situation exists and give appropriate first aid. Look for unconsciousness, shock, hemorrhage, look for breathing difficulties. Trauma (like hit by a car), poisoning, and air leakage from chest are all life-threatening. Transport the animal to the vet or emergency vet hospital. Transport securely - use a travel kennel most preferably. If a travel kennel is not available, place the animal in a box.
If head or spinal injury is suspected, use a board, plywood, window screen or any flat, firm surface to transport. If this type of flat support is not available, transport the pet in a large towel or small blanket. You might call the vet clinic in advance of your arrival giving them the circumstances of the accident, or illness.
Planning for an emergency:
Decide what you need to do ahead of time and rehearse. Have important telephone numbers such as your local vet and two of the closest 24-hour veterinary emergency clinics in a place you can find easily in a sudden emergency. The Poison Control Center number should be easily found: (800) 548-2423.
Items for your pet first aid kit:
Muzzle Leash, Welder's gloves Stretch bandage Roll gauze Solar blanket Bandage tape Sterile nonstick wound pads Clean hand towel Cotton balls and/or swabs Chlorhexidine wash (0.5%) Saline solution Sterile eye ointment Lubricating jelly Clotting powder Kydrogen peroxide Kaolin-pectin Activated charcoal Triple antibiotic ointment Splint Forceps and/or tweezers Scissors Bulb syringe Plastic digital thermometer Reusable cold pack 12-milliliter syringe Disposable gloves Feeding Tubes Home remedies
Goals of first aid are: Keep your safety in mind at all times. Attend to any severe bleeding that is present. Administer CPR if needed. Immobilize injuries and/or pet for transport. Take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Delay in seeking professional help often increase costs and decreases treatment success.
When you do encounter an emergency situation, do not panic! Look around your surroundings to be sure there are no moving vehicles, broken glass, chemical spills, fire and electrical hazards. Approach the injured or ill pet slowly and with caution. Use a calm reassuring voice. You might need to apply a muzzle. Injured or ill animals might bite out of pain or fear. If this occurs, don't take it personally and don't feel like your animal is now vicious or worthless and needs to be gotten rid of. Be understanding that the animal is under extreme stress and hardly knows what to do himself.
Never use a muzzle on an animal that is vomiting, choking, convulsing or having breathing difficulties. If you cannot muzzle, use heavy-duty gloves or drape a blanket or thick towel over the animal's head prior to handling.
Determine whether a life-threatening situation exists and give appropriate first aid. Look for unconsciousness, shock, hemorrhage, look for breathing difficulties. Trauma (like hit by a car), poisoning, and air leakage from chest are all life-threatening. Transport the animal to the vet or emergency vet hospital. Transport securely - use a travel kennel most preferably. If a travel kennel is not available, place the animal in a box.
If head or spinal injury is suspected, use a board, plywood, window screen or any flat, firm surface to transport. If this type of flat support is not available, transport the pet in a large towel or small blanket. You might call the vet clinic in advance of your arrival giving them the circumstances of the accident, or illness.
Planning for an emergency:
Decide what you need to do ahead of time and rehearse. Have important telephone numbers such as your local vet and two of the closest 24-hour veterinary emergency clinics in a place you can find easily in a sudden emergency. The Poison Control Center number should be easily found: (800) 548-2423.
Items for your pet first aid kit:
Muzzle Leash, Welder's gloves Stretch bandage Roll gauze Solar blanket Bandage tape Sterile nonstick wound pads Clean hand towel Cotton balls and/or swabs Chlorhexidine wash (0.5%) Saline solution Sterile eye ointment Lubricating jelly Clotting powder Kydrogen peroxide Kaolin-pectin Activated charcoal Triple antibiotic ointment Splint Forceps and/or tweezers Scissors Bulb syringe Plastic digital thermometer Reusable cold pack 12-milliliter syringe Disposable gloves Feeding Tubes Home remedies
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Do You Know Where Your Food Thermometer Is?
(NC)-Consumers have long been advised to use food thermometers to measure the internal temperature of foods, such as meat and poultry, to verify that a safe temperature is reached and that harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 are destroyed.
There are many good reasons to use a food thermometer. Food thermometers help you to:
cook food to a safe temperature
prevent overcooking and get the best flavour
take the guesswork out of cooking
During this barbecue season, remember to use an instant-read food thermometer every time you prepare beef patties. Health Canada recommends cooking ground beef to a minimum internal temperature of 71C (160F). Insert a probe-type instant-read thermometer through the side of the beef patty until the tip reaches the centre. Fork-style temperature devices can be inserted through the top into the centre of the patty.
For more information on food safety, visit the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education Web site at www.canfightbac.org.
(NC)-Consumers have long been advised to use food thermometers to measure the internal temperature of foods, such as meat and poultry, to verify that a safe temperature is reached and that harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 are destroyed.
There are many good reasons to use a food thermometer. Food thermometers help you to:
cook food to a safe temperature
prevent overcooking and get the best flavour
take the guesswork out of cooking
During this barbecue season, remember to use an instant-read food thermometer every time you prepare beef patties. Health Canada recommends cooking ground beef to a minimum internal temperature of 71C (160F). Insert a probe-type instant-read thermometer through the side of the beef patty until the tip reaches the centre. Fork-style temperature devices can be inserted through the top into the centre of the patty.
For more information on food safety, visit the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education Web site at www.canfightbac.org.
Weather and Latitude are Not Allies
There is a popular assumption that if you move to higher latitudes (toward the poles) you can escape the heat, and that by moving to lower latitudes (toward the equator) you can escape the cold.
The equation is simple. But is it real? If it was, then the most northerly capital, Reykjavk, would also be the coldest...at least until they establish a country on Antarctica. Yes, it appears that latitude is slacking off and failing to keep temperatures in line.
This was brought home to me when preparing for a radio interview in Dublin, Ireland. February had just roiled in and I was sitting back comfortably in my good old glacial Ottawa, Canada, weather, scraping icicles off my toes. I was giddy with excitement over our warm spell, which it was reaching a high of minus-5 (that's about 20-degrees American). I always ask questions the day before an interview, to learn a bit about my audience, so I asked the producer, "So what's the weather forecast for Dublin, Ireland?" asked.
"Oh it's horrible," she told me. "People are bracing for a deep winter freeze that's supposed to hit tonight. It might even get as cold as minus-5!"
This blew me away, that the folks in Dublin would be worried about the thermometer dips as low as ours spikes high. After all, isn't Dublin about the same latitude as Ottawa?
Weather forecast from an atlas
I whipped out my trusty atlas. We live almost exactly on the 45th parallel. If we lived exactly on it, we would have to share our bed with a cow and a dozen chickens across the road that's how close we are.
I turned the pages to find Ireland. Could I have been mistaken? Is Dublin really quite south of us? No, it turns out that Dublin lies at the 53rd parallel. Hey! They should be getting colder weather than us. That's not fair.
The weather is not fair. Dublin is way to the North of us, so why do we get all the cold?
I decided to take a peak at a few other pages of my atlas. Lo and behold, Venice is also on the 45th parallel. Let me tell you that the weather forecast for Venice, Italy never calls for getting buried in snow for three or four months of the year...unless you happen to be viewing "The Day After Tomorrow". In fact, the average temperature in Venice in January is +1 (that's about 34-degrees American).
Hmm. I wondered what else lay along the 45th parallel. The French Riviera. Not too much ice going on there. Portland, Oregon. I checked the Portland, USA, weather forecast. Yup, same as Venice in January. And Sevastapol, Urkaine, also with January temperatures near Venice.
In fact, no other well-populated area of the world endures so much cold (except parts of Russia, but many of those people can't afford the taxi fare to go somewhere else).
So why do so many people with so much wealth live in such an inhospitable climate? I don't know. Maybe we are waiting for latitude to correct this little anomaly.
Or maybe our brains are simply frozen. Or maybe that's why so many people around here head south to enjoy that warm Orlando, Florida, weather forecast.
There is a popular assumption that if you move to higher latitudes (toward the poles) you can escape the heat, and that by moving to lower latitudes (toward the equator) you can escape the cold.
The equation is simple. But is it real? If it was, then the most northerly capital, Reykjavk, would also be the coldest...at least until they establish a country on Antarctica. Yes, it appears that latitude is slacking off and failing to keep temperatures in line.
This was brought home to me when preparing for a radio interview in Dublin, Ireland. February had just roiled in and I was sitting back comfortably in my good old glacial Ottawa, Canada, weather, scraping icicles off my toes. I was giddy with excitement over our warm spell, which it was reaching a high of minus-5 (that's about 20-degrees American). I always ask questions the day before an interview, to learn a bit about my audience, so I asked the producer, "So what's the weather forecast for Dublin, Ireland?" asked.
"Oh it's horrible," she told me. "People are bracing for a deep winter freeze that's supposed to hit tonight. It might even get as cold as minus-5!"
This blew me away, that the folks in Dublin would be worried about the thermometer dips as low as ours spikes high. After all, isn't Dublin about the same latitude as Ottawa?
Weather forecast from an atlas
I whipped out my trusty atlas. We live almost exactly on the 45th parallel. If we lived exactly on it, we would have to share our bed with a cow and a dozen chickens across the road that's how close we are.
I turned the pages to find Ireland. Could I have been mistaken? Is Dublin really quite south of us? No, it turns out that Dublin lies at the 53rd parallel. Hey! They should be getting colder weather than us. That's not fair.
The weather is not fair. Dublin is way to the North of us, so why do we get all the cold?
I decided to take a peak at a few other pages of my atlas. Lo and behold, Venice is also on the 45th parallel. Let me tell you that the weather forecast for Venice, Italy never calls for getting buried in snow for three or four months of the year...unless you happen to be viewing "The Day After Tomorrow". In fact, the average temperature in Venice in January is +1 (that's about 34-degrees American).
Hmm. I wondered what else lay along the 45th parallel. The French Riviera. Not too much ice going on there. Portland, Oregon. I checked the Portland, USA, weather forecast. Yup, same as Venice in January. And Sevastapol, Urkaine, also with January temperatures near Venice.
In fact, no other well-populated area of the world endures so much cold (except parts of Russia, but many of those people can't afford the taxi fare to go somewhere else).
So why do so many people with so much wealth live in such an inhospitable climate? I don't know. Maybe we are waiting for latitude to correct this little anomaly.
Or maybe our brains are simply frozen. Or maybe that's why so many people around here head south to enjoy that warm Orlando, Florida, weather forecast.
Friday, January 26, 2007
How To Raise A Goldfish
Did you know that your goldfish can live for over 10 years? Under the right conditions he can live even longer but most never make it past the first year! If you want your goldfish to live long and healthy lives, youve got to provide the proper environment.
Its a common misconception that a goldfish can live in a tiny bowl. In order for him to survive for any length of time, youll need to do frequent water changes and cleanings of the bowl thats a lot of work and living in a bowl isnt much fun so its best to keep your fish in a regular tank with a proper filtration system.
The size of your tank depends on how many goldfish you want to keep in it. A good rule of thumb is to allocate about 7 gallons of water per fish, so if you want 5 goldfish a 35 gallon tank is recommended. Its better to keep fish in a long tank that has plenty of surface to air space as goldfish like to have a lot of oxygen in their water. A tall hexagon shaped tank wont be the best tank for these fish.
Goldfish like their water to be a little on the cool side between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit so in most cases a heater is not necessary. You should, however have a thermometer in the tank and take the appropriate measures if the temperature gets above 72 degrees as higher temperatures can make your fish more susceptible to disease. Bear in mind that most other tropical fish like their water on the warm side, so you will have to be careful what fish you put in the tank with your goldfish.
Provide the goldfish tank with a filtration system that is appropriate for the size of the tank. If you are keeping the fancy tailed goldfish, dont use a system that will provide too much current as this can make it difficult for them to swim around. Youll also want to provide periodic water changes as you should with any tank.
One of the main reasons that fish become sick is due to poor water quality. To keep your goldfish healthy, make sure you provide the filtration and water changes but also be careful about overcrowding and overfeeding. Too many fish or too much decaying food and waste will cause the water in your tank to become toxic to your fish.
Keeping goldfish can be a wonderful hobby and with minimal work, you can get a tank up and keep it running with healthy fish.
Did you know that your goldfish can live for over 10 years? Under the right conditions he can live even longer but most never make it past the first year! If you want your goldfish to live long and healthy lives, youve got to provide the proper environment.
Its a common misconception that a goldfish can live in a tiny bowl. In order for him to survive for any length of time, youll need to do frequent water changes and cleanings of the bowl thats a lot of work and living in a bowl isnt much fun so its best to keep your fish in a regular tank with a proper filtration system.
The size of your tank depends on how many goldfish you want to keep in it. A good rule of thumb is to allocate about 7 gallons of water per fish, so if you want 5 goldfish a 35 gallon tank is recommended. Its better to keep fish in a long tank that has plenty of surface to air space as goldfish like to have a lot of oxygen in their water. A tall hexagon shaped tank wont be the best tank for these fish.
Goldfish like their water to be a little on the cool side between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit so in most cases a heater is not necessary. You should, however have a thermometer in the tank and take the appropriate measures if the temperature gets above 72 degrees as higher temperatures can make your fish more susceptible to disease. Bear in mind that most other tropical fish like their water on the warm side, so you will have to be careful what fish you put in the tank with your goldfish.
Provide the goldfish tank with a filtration system that is appropriate for the size of the tank. If you are keeping the fancy tailed goldfish, dont use a system that will provide too much current as this can make it difficult for them to swim around. Youll also want to provide periodic water changes as you should with any tank.
One of the main reasons that fish become sick is due to poor water quality. To keep your goldfish healthy, make sure you provide the filtration and water changes but also be careful about overcrowding and overfeeding. Too many fish or too much decaying food and waste will cause the water in your tank to become toxic to your fish.
Keeping goldfish can be a wonderful hobby and with minimal work, you can get a tank up and keep it running with healthy fish.
How to Provide First Aid For Your Horse
If your horse is in the field, and it suffers a severe cut, you will want to stop the bleeding as soon as possible. You will need to make a call to your vet, and there are steps you also need to take in order to provide first aid to your horse as soon as possible. You will want to stabilize the horse prior to the arrival of the vet.
The first thing you want to do is make sure you have a first aid kit available for the horse in advance. The first aid kit should have all the important constituents necessary for emergencies and small cuts. You always want to make sure that you have first aid readily available. You will want to make sure you have all the important tools you need, and you will want to know how to use them.
A commercially available first aid kit for horses will cost between $39 and $80. You will want to make sure the kit has a thermometer so that you can check the temperature of the horse. All horses should have a standard temperature of 99 to 115 degrees. The first aid kit should also come with a stethoscope so that you can monitor the heart rate of the horse. You can listen clearly to the heartbeat just under the elbow on the left side of the horse.
All first aid kits should have a flashlight, in case you have an emergency in the dark. You will also want to have electrolytes in case the horse becomes dehydrated. Warming up water and adding a small teaspoon of electrolytes can encourage water consumption by your horse. The first aid kit should also have neosporin, iodine, and hydrogen peroxide. Avoid using the hydrogen peroxide on wounds as it will destroy benign tissue.
You will also want to have wire cutters handy in the event the horse gets stuck in a gate or wire. You will also want to use a twitch which can calm your horse and keep him controlled in situations where it will be in great pain. You will also want to make sure you have a knife cutting bandages and other materials. You will want to make sure you don't injure your horse when handling the knife.
You will want to use the iodine solution to clean out any thick wounds. Any wounds which will be treated by a veterinarian within a hours of the injury should not have medications applied, and should only be flushed with iodine or clean water to prevent them from drying.
If your horse is in the field, and it suffers a severe cut, you will want to stop the bleeding as soon as possible. You will need to make a call to your vet, and there are steps you also need to take in order to provide first aid to your horse as soon as possible. You will want to stabilize the horse prior to the arrival of the vet.
The first thing you want to do is make sure you have a first aid kit available for the horse in advance. The first aid kit should have all the important constituents necessary for emergencies and small cuts. You always want to make sure that you have first aid readily available. You will want to make sure you have all the important tools you need, and you will want to know how to use them.
A commercially available first aid kit for horses will cost between $39 and $80. You will want to make sure the kit has a thermometer so that you can check the temperature of the horse. All horses should have a standard temperature of 99 to 115 degrees. The first aid kit should also come with a stethoscope so that you can monitor the heart rate of the horse. You can listen clearly to the heartbeat just under the elbow on the left side of the horse.
All first aid kits should have a flashlight, in case you have an emergency in the dark. You will also want to have electrolytes in case the horse becomes dehydrated. Warming up water and adding a small teaspoon of electrolytes can encourage water consumption by your horse. The first aid kit should also have neosporin, iodine, and hydrogen peroxide. Avoid using the hydrogen peroxide on wounds as it will destroy benign tissue.
You will also want to have wire cutters handy in the event the horse gets stuck in a gate or wire. You will also want to use a twitch which can calm your horse and keep him controlled in situations where it will be in great pain. You will also want to make sure you have a knife cutting bandages and other materials. You will want to make sure you don't injure your horse when handling the knife.
You will want to use the iodine solution to clean out any thick wounds. Any wounds which will be treated by a veterinarian within a hours of the injury should not have medications applied, and should only be flushed with iodine or clean water to prevent them from drying.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
The Basic First Aid for Child Care Programs
We cannot help but accept the fact that children do get into trouble and sometimes emergencies when they are left in childcare programs. We just have to pray that most injuries sustained are minor such as cuts, scrapes, bruises, among others.
But when serious injuries and emergencies do happen, caregivers and childcare program administrators should have the proper and basic planning and first aid needed in times such as these.
A safer and well maintained establishment and facility. As most injuries and emergencies may be prevented, it is a must that a childcare program should be able to create and maintain safer play areas, establish safety rules, and properly supervise the children. Administrators and caregivers should be able to cope with minor injuries, as well as less common but serious emergencies which sometimes involve the head, broken bones, knocked-out teeth, poisoning, burns, choking, etc. Preparing for these kinds of emergencies will help caregivers to respond appropriately and make the children stay calm and even provide aid in the care of the injured child.
Basic First Aid and available emergency help should be at hand. One of the first steps to take during times of potentially serious injuries and emergencies would be to call for emergency help. If you are located in the urban areas, it is easy to get emergency help. Qualified emergency personnel can arrive in just a matter of minutes in your location. But not so in rural areas. Hence, it is important for caregivers to have training on life-threatening emergencies. A childcare facility should at least have one trained caregiver available to provide intensive first aid while waiting for help to arrive.
For minor injuries, basic first aid and a dose of tender care would suffice while waiting for a parent or guardian to arrive.
A well-stocked, accessible first aid kit should be provided. The following are some of the appropriate medical supplies that a basic first aid kit should have, as advised by an emergency personnel:
Disposable non-porous, latex-free gloves for hand protection from blood and body fluids;
Tweezers for removing splinters;
Adhesive bandages;
Scissors for cutting tapes and dressings;
Bandage tape for gauze pads;
Sterile gauze pads for cleaning and covering wounds;
Flexible rolled gauze to hold a gauze pad in place;
Eye dressings;
Inset sting preparation; and
Thermometer.
For other non medical supply materials, a first aid kit is also best to have a pencil or pen and notepad for writing down information and instructions; coins to use in a pay phone during a field trip; emergency telephone numbers such as the poison control center, paramedics, etc.; first aid guides; plastic zipper bags; and plastic trash bags for disposal of contaminated supplies.
In every situation, the best rule of thumb is to always be prepared. As the adage would say, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
We cannot help but accept the fact that children do get into trouble and sometimes emergencies when they are left in childcare programs. We just have to pray that most injuries sustained are minor such as cuts, scrapes, bruises, among others.
But when serious injuries and emergencies do happen, caregivers and childcare program administrators should have the proper and basic planning and first aid needed in times such as these.
A safer and well maintained establishment and facility. As most injuries and emergencies may be prevented, it is a must that a childcare program should be able to create and maintain safer play areas, establish safety rules, and properly supervise the children. Administrators and caregivers should be able to cope with minor injuries, as well as less common but serious emergencies which sometimes involve the head, broken bones, knocked-out teeth, poisoning, burns, choking, etc. Preparing for these kinds of emergencies will help caregivers to respond appropriately and make the children stay calm and even provide aid in the care of the injured child.
Basic First Aid and available emergency help should be at hand. One of the first steps to take during times of potentially serious injuries and emergencies would be to call for emergency help. If you are located in the urban areas, it is easy to get emergency help. Qualified emergency personnel can arrive in just a matter of minutes in your location. But not so in rural areas. Hence, it is important for caregivers to have training on life-threatening emergencies. A childcare facility should at least have one trained caregiver available to provide intensive first aid while waiting for help to arrive.
For minor injuries, basic first aid and a dose of tender care would suffice while waiting for a parent or guardian to arrive.
A well-stocked, accessible first aid kit should be provided. The following are some of the appropriate medical supplies that a basic first aid kit should have, as advised by an emergency personnel:
Disposable non-porous, latex-free gloves for hand protection from blood and body fluids;
Tweezers for removing splinters;
Adhesive bandages;
Scissors for cutting tapes and dressings;
Bandage tape for gauze pads;
Sterile gauze pads for cleaning and covering wounds;
Flexible rolled gauze to hold a gauze pad in place;
Eye dressings;
Inset sting preparation; and
Thermometer.
For other non medical supply materials, a first aid kit is also best to have a pencil or pen and notepad for writing down information and instructions; coins to use in a pay phone during a field trip; emergency telephone numbers such as the poison control center, paramedics, etc.; first aid guides; plastic zipper bags; and plastic trash bags for disposal of contaminated supplies.
In every situation, the best rule of thumb is to always be prepared. As the adage would say, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
Impress Dinner Guests - Make Lattes at Home
With an espresso machine in your kitchen at home, you can make your own lattes to enjoy for yourself- and to impress your dinner guests! Some people look at the price of a home espresso machine and change their minds, but if consider what you typically pay when you buy a latte at your local coffee shop, whether it is a mom & pop shop or a chain (like Dunkin Donuts), youre spending anywhere from $2 to $4 for a latte! Your espresso machine will more than pay for itself in a short time of making your lattes from home. Having your own espresso machine means having the ability to make lattes for much less than you spend on them when you go out. Plus you can enjoy them anytime- not just when youre on the road. Also, lattes are a wonderful after dinner complement- particularly when you have guests over!
Making a latte is all a part of the fun of having an espresso machine. While some people like to drink espresso shots right out of the machine, most people would prefer to make a latte or cappuccino to sit and enjoy with a good book, or good friends and conversation!
The espresso machine will grind your espresso beans fresh for every cup, giving you the fresh taste latte lovers have come to recognize as an integral part of the latte. Depending on your particular brand of espresso machine, youll probably dispense about 7 grams of espresso into the handle. Once youve extracted the espresso shot into the provided espresso shot pot (usually stainless steel, with a pouring spout), you can start steaming your milk!
The basic recipe is 1 to 2 ounces of espresso to 8 fluid ounces of milk. Put your milk into the frothing jug, and slide the entire container over the steam arm nozzle. Make sure you keep the nozzle as close to the bottom of the container as possible to avoid making a lot of foam out of your milk. Use a thermometer so you know when the milk reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Now you are ready to pour your steamed milk into the serving cup. A glass latte cup will look the best, and really impress your friends! Pour the steamed milk into the glass, using a spoon to hold back most of the foam that forms on the top of the milk. Once youve filled your cup with the milk, allow some of the foam to lie on the top for a professional coffee shop latte look.
Your final step to preparing a latte at home is to take your espresso shot and pour it slowly down the inside of the latte serving glass. Some of the espresso will mix with the milk at the bottom of the glass and some will layer itself in between the milk and foam. Youll have cloudy areas and several different shades of latte brown, making for a wonderful presentation that rivals that of the best coffee house. Only you wont be paying $4 a cup, and you can make it and drink it in your pajamas if you want to!
If you really want to make the presentation impressive, place your guests lattes on a cute little serving tray, with a decorative plate of fancy cookies. Biscottis are typically served with lattes, but you can be creative and serve anything you like. Maybe you could make some tiramisu using your espresso to make it from scratch for dessert, and enjoy slices of tiramisu with your homemade lattes! Your guests will want to come for dinner all the time once they experience your after dinner lattes.
With an espresso machine in your kitchen at home, you can make your own lattes to enjoy for yourself- and to impress your dinner guests! Some people look at the price of a home espresso machine and change their minds, but if consider what you typically pay when you buy a latte at your local coffee shop, whether it is a mom & pop shop or a chain (like Dunkin Donuts), youre spending anywhere from $2 to $4 for a latte! Your espresso machine will more than pay for itself in a short time of making your lattes from home. Having your own espresso machine means having the ability to make lattes for much less than you spend on them when you go out. Plus you can enjoy them anytime- not just when youre on the road. Also, lattes are a wonderful after dinner complement- particularly when you have guests over!
Making a latte is all a part of the fun of having an espresso machine. While some people like to drink espresso shots right out of the machine, most people would prefer to make a latte or cappuccino to sit and enjoy with a good book, or good friends and conversation!
The espresso machine will grind your espresso beans fresh for every cup, giving you the fresh taste latte lovers have come to recognize as an integral part of the latte. Depending on your particular brand of espresso machine, youll probably dispense about 7 grams of espresso into the handle. Once youve extracted the espresso shot into the provided espresso shot pot (usually stainless steel, with a pouring spout), you can start steaming your milk!
The basic recipe is 1 to 2 ounces of espresso to 8 fluid ounces of milk. Put your milk into the frothing jug, and slide the entire container over the steam arm nozzle. Make sure you keep the nozzle as close to the bottom of the container as possible to avoid making a lot of foam out of your milk. Use a thermometer so you know when the milk reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Now you are ready to pour your steamed milk into the serving cup. A glass latte cup will look the best, and really impress your friends! Pour the steamed milk into the glass, using a spoon to hold back most of the foam that forms on the top of the milk. Once youve filled your cup with the milk, allow some of the foam to lie on the top for a professional coffee shop latte look.
Your final step to preparing a latte at home is to take your espresso shot and pour it slowly down the inside of the latte serving glass. Some of the espresso will mix with the milk at the bottom of the glass and some will layer itself in between the milk and foam. Youll have cloudy areas and several different shades of latte brown, making for a wonderful presentation that rivals that of the best coffee house. Only you wont be paying $4 a cup, and you can make it and drink it in your pajamas if you want to!
If you really want to make the presentation impressive, place your guests lattes on a cute little serving tray, with a decorative plate of fancy cookies. Biscottis are typically served with lattes, but you can be creative and serve anything you like. Maybe you could make some tiramisu using your espresso to make it from scratch for dessert, and enjoy slices of tiramisu with your homemade lattes! Your guests will want to come for dinner all the time once they experience your after dinner lattes.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Brown Burgers May Look Done, But Are They?
(NC)-According to Health Canada, summer chefs who cook ground beef burgers on gas grills could have a food safety problem if they rely solely on colour-rather than an instant-read food thermometer-to determine if their patties are adequately cooked. For example, sometimes previously frozen beef burgers may turn brown in the middle before they reach a temperature high enough to kill harmful E. coli bacteria.
That's why it's so important to always use an instant-read food thermometer when cooking hamburgers to check that the burgers reach 71 C (160 F). At this temperature,
E. coli is killed and the hamburgers are considered safe to eat. For more information on food safety, visit the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education Web site at www.canfightbac.org.
(NC)-According to Health Canada, summer chefs who cook ground beef burgers on gas grills could have a food safety problem if they rely solely on colour-rather than an instant-read food thermometer-to determine if their patties are adequately cooked. For example, sometimes previously frozen beef burgers may turn brown in the middle before they reach a temperature high enough to kill harmful E. coli bacteria.
That's why it's so important to always use an instant-read food thermometer when cooking hamburgers to check that the burgers reach 71 C (160 F). At this temperature,
E. coli is killed and the hamburgers are considered safe to eat. For more information on food safety, visit the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education Web site at www.canfightbac.org.
Cappuccino Secrets: Creating the Perfect Foam
Here is an article that tells the secret of creating the perfect foam with steamed milk for making a wonderful cappuccino. As you'll see creating the perfect foam isn't as easy as it may seem ...
Most places that serve cappuccinos in the United States have not trained their baristas in the art of properly frothing milk. The foam that they create is usually a dry, tasteless, large celled collection of bubbles that sit on top of the espresso like a meringue.
With a little care, you can create steamed milk that is velvety smooth like the texture of wet shaving cream. The bubbles will be so small that you can barely see them! This is the way its supposed to be, because this way, it will blend with the espresso, creating a harmony of the flavors instead of a dry, tasteless cap floating on top. Lets Begin.
First off, its important to start with cold milk thats just out of the fridge. Pour the milk into the steaming pitcher until it is just about 1/3 of the way full. Milk will double to triple in volume after the frothing process. A stainless steel pitcher works best. It will dissipate some of the heat, allowing more time to infuse air into the milk before the milk gets too hot.
For a home made cappuccino, you'll have to learn the art of creating a perfect foam.
Also use a thermometer to get the milk to the correct temperature of 145 degrees. There are many thermometers made for this purpose that will clip onto the side of the pitcher for convenience.
The Technique:
Purge the steam wand onto a damp towel by releasing the valve for a few seconds. Be very careful not to burn yourself, the steam will be extremely hot. This purging will get all of the water out so you dont get it in your milk.
Next, submerge the wand into the milk and quickly turn the steam on full power. Avoid letting the tip of the wand come out of the milk. This will cause splattering and create large, tasteless bubbles.
Adjust the wand so that it is pointing off center in order to get the milk to flowing in a rapid, circular motion. Maintaining this fast, circulating vortex is vital.
Then, slowly lower the pitcher until the tip of the wand is just below the surface of the milk (keeping the circulation going). When you can hear a hissing noise, similar to bacon frying, you have reached the perfect position for the wand to inject air into the milk.
Try to maintain this hissing noise while keeping the milk rotating. You will have to slowly lower the pitcher as the milk volume rises in order to keep the wand tip just under the surface.
By keeping the milk flowing in a rapid circle, any large bubbles that are accidentally created will be rolled into the milk and eliminated. Continue steaming until the milk reaches 145 degrees. Be careful not to get the milk too hot, it will scald giving it a bad taste.
Thats pretty much it! If you have a few large bubbles, you can try to get rid of them by tapping the bottom of the pitcher lightly on the counter. Serve immediately and enjoy some of the silkiest frothed milk you have ever tasted!
One more thing, now that you know how to properly steam the milk, notice how few coffee houses have baristas that take care in this process. Very few use thermometers and end up scalding the milk, or leaving it too cold.
Most will just leave the pitcher sitting there while the wand blows into the milk. Some will use an up and down motion, but this does absolutely nothing for creating tiny, velvety bubbles. Its the rolling action of the milk thats needed.
If you find a barista that shows this skill of frothing milk, then stay with him! Hes been trained and probably takes pride in what he does.
Here is an article that tells the secret of creating the perfect foam with steamed milk for making a wonderful cappuccino. As you'll see creating the perfect foam isn't as easy as it may seem ...
Most places that serve cappuccinos in the United States have not trained their baristas in the art of properly frothing milk. The foam that they create is usually a dry, tasteless, large celled collection of bubbles that sit on top of the espresso like a meringue.
With a little care, you can create steamed milk that is velvety smooth like the texture of wet shaving cream. The bubbles will be so small that you can barely see them! This is the way its supposed to be, because this way, it will blend with the espresso, creating a harmony of the flavors instead of a dry, tasteless cap floating on top. Lets Begin.
First off, its important to start with cold milk thats just out of the fridge. Pour the milk into the steaming pitcher until it is just about 1/3 of the way full. Milk will double to triple in volume after the frothing process. A stainless steel pitcher works best. It will dissipate some of the heat, allowing more time to infuse air into the milk before the milk gets too hot.
For a home made cappuccino, you'll have to learn the art of creating a perfect foam.
Also use a thermometer to get the milk to the correct temperature of 145 degrees. There are many thermometers made for this purpose that will clip onto the side of the pitcher for convenience.
The Technique:
Purge the steam wand onto a damp towel by releasing the valve for a few seconds. Be very careful not to burn yourself, the steam will be extremely hot. This purging will get all of the water out so you dont get it in your milk.
Next, submerge the wand into the milk and quickly turn the steam on full power. Avoid letting the tip of the wand come out of the milk. This will cause splattering and create large, tasteless bubbles.
Adjust the wand so that it is pointing off center in order to get the milk to flowing in a rapid, circular motion. Maintaining this fast, circulating vortex is vital.
Then, slowly lower the pitcher until the tip of the wand is just below the surface of the milk (keeping the circulation going). When you can hear a hissing noise, similar to bacon frying, you have reached the perfect position for the wand to inject air into the milk.
Try to maintain this hissing noise while keeping the milk rotating. You will have to slowly lower the pitcher as the milk volume rises in order to keep the wand tip just under the surface.
By keeping the milk flowing in a rapid circle, any large bubbles that are accidentally created will be rolled into the milk and eliminated. Continue steaming until the milk reaches 145 degrees. Be careful not to get the milk too hot, it will scald giving it a bad taste.
Thats pretty much it! If you have a few large bubbles, you can try to get rid of them by tapping the bottom of the pitcher lightly on the counter. Serve immediately and enjoy some of the silkiest frothed milk you have ever tasted!
One more thing, now that you know how to properly steam the milk, notice how few coffee houses have baristas that take care in this process. Very few use thermometers and end up scalding the milk, or leaving it too cold.
Most will just leave the pitcher sitting there while the wand blows into the milk. Some will use an up and down motion, but this does absolutely nothing for creating tiny, velvety bubbles. Its the rolling action of the milk thats needed.
If you find a barista that shows this skill of frothing milk, then stay with him! Hes been trained and probably takes pride in what he does.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Candles - How to Make Them From Home
A candle, consisting of an internal wick and a column of solid fuel, illuminates the surrounding area. Due to the invention of modern equipments used for illuminating the surrounding, candle is not an essential product for this purpose. But the demand for candles has gone up as a work of art. Different varieties of candles have flooded the market. The candles are of different colors, aroma, and shapes.
The making of a candle involves various equipments. Paraffin wax, melting system, candy thermometer, and scales to measure the amount of water and wax are required. Ladle and spoons are used for stirring and pouring wax. Chemically treated wick that burns for a longer period of time are used. Since wax is soft, stearic acid is used to make it solid. Color dyes are used to make the appearance brighter.
It involves a very simple process to make the candle. Suspend a wick in the center of a mold. Dissolve stearic acid and color dye in a container and heat the wax to 190 degrees. Combine the stearic mixture with paraffin and stir it continuously to blend it. Pour the mixture in a mold, allow time for it to cool and then remove it from the mold.
Acquiring a gel candle has now become a fashion. You can prepare it easily at home. All you need to get are a container, gels, pans, wicks and the basic necessary items. While selecting containers, it is best to use a heat resistant glass. Gel wax, paraffin, candle scent, dye, wick, wick clip, and wick base are the other requirements. Different colors can be mixed together to form a new color according to your taste. The oil based liquids; pellets and wax solids are the sources of scent. The scent has to be added before pouring the candle to avoid evaporation.
Items like buttons, marbles, toys and jewels can be added in the candle. Avoid inflammatory items. Candles are used for various reasons. They are used in almost all the religions. The candles represent the light of God in Christianity. Candles are lit at the start and end of the weekly Sabbath celebration. For Kwanzaa and for other reasons of humanism, candles are lit. Thus, the candle not only serves illuminating and decoration purposes, but also serves religious causes.
A candle, consisting of an internal wick and a column of solid fuel, illuminates the surrounding area. Due to the invention of modern equipments used for illuminating the surrounding, candle is not an essential product for this purpose. But the demand for candles has gone up as a work of art. Different varieties of candles have flooded the market. The candles are of different colors, aroma, and shapes.
The making of a candle involves various equipments. Paraffin wax, melting system, candy thermometer, and scales to measure the amount of water and wax are required. Ladle and spoons are used for stirring and pouring wax. Chemically treated wick that burns for a longer period of time are used. Since wax is soft, stearic acid is used to make it solid. Color dyes are used to make the appearance brighter.
It involves a very simple process to make the candle. Suspend a wick in the center of a mold. Dissolve stearic acid and color dye in a container and heat the wax to 190 degrees. Combine the stearic mixture with paraffin and stir it continuously to blend it. Pour the mixture in a mold, allow time for it to cool and then remove it from the mold.
Acquiring a gel candle has now become a fashion. You can prepare it easily at home. All you need to get are a container, gels, pans, wicks and the basic necessary items. While selecting containers, it is best to use a heat resistant glass. Gel wax, paraffin, candle scent, dye, wick, wick clip, and wick base are the other requirements. Different colors can be mixed together to form a new color according to your taste. The oil based liquids; pellets and wax solids are the sources of scent. The scent has to be added before pouring the candle to avoid evaporation.
Items like buttons, marbles, toys and jewels can be added in the candle. Avoid inflammatory items. Candles are used for various reasons. They are used in almost all the religions. The candles represent the light of God in Christianity. Candles are lit at the start and end of the weekly Sabbath celebration. For Kwanzaa and for other reasons of humanism, candles are lit. Thus, the candle not only serves illuminating and decoration purposes, but also serves religious causes.
Monday, January 22, 2007
10 Smoky Tips To BBQ Food Safely
Cooking outdoors was once only a summer activity shared with family and friends. Now more than half of Americans say they are cooking outdoors year round. Use these simple guidelines for grilling food safely to prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying and causing food-borne illness.
1. Defrosting
Completely defrost meat and poultry before grilling so it cooks more evenly. Use the refrigerator for slow, safe thawing or thaw sealed packages in cold water. You can microwave defrost if the food will be placed immediately on the grill.
2. Marinating
Meat and poultry can be marinated for several hours or days to tenderize or add flavor. Be sure to marinate food in the refrigerator, not on the counter. If some of the marinade is to be used as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion of the marinade before putting raw meat and poultry in it. However, if the marinade used on raw meat or poultry is to be reused, make sure to let it come to a boil first to destroy any harmful bacteria.
3. Transporting
When carrying food to another location, keep it cold to minimize bacterial growth. Use an insulated cooler with sufficient ice or ice packs to keep the food at 40 F or below. Pack food right from the refrigerator into the cooler immediately before leaving home. Keep the cooler in the coolest part of the car.
4. Keep Cold Food Cold
When using a cooler, keep it out of the direct sun by placing it in the shade or shelter. Avoid opening the lid too often, which lets cold air out and warm air in. Pack beverages in one cooler & perishables in a separate cooler.
5. Keep Everything Clean
Be sure there are plenty of clean utensils and platters. To prevent food-borne illness, don't use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meat and poultry. Harmful bacteria present in raw meat and poultry and their juices can contaminate safely cooked food.
6. Cook Thoroughly
Cook food to a safe internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria. Meat and poultry cooked on a grill often browns very fast on the outside. Use a food thermometer to be sure the food has reached a safe internal temperature. Whole poultry should reach 180 F; breasts, 170 F. Hamburgers made of ground beef should reach 160 F; ground poultry, 165 F. Beef, veal, and lamb steaks, roasts and chops can be cooked to 145 F. All cuts of pork should reach 160 F. NEVER partially grill meat or poultry and finish cooking later.
7. Keep Hot Food Hot
After cooking meat and poultry on the grill, keep it hot until served -- at 140 F or warmer. Keep cooked meats hot by setting them to the side of the grill rack, not directly over the coals where they could overcook. At home, the cooked meat can be kept hot in a warm oven (approximately 200 F), in a chafing dish or slow cooker, or on a warming tray.
8. Serving Safely
When taking food off the grill, use a clean platter. Don't put cooked food on the same platter that held raw meat or poultry. Any harmful bacteria present in the raw meat juices could contaminate safely cooked food.
9. Safe Smoking
Smoking is done much more slowly than grilling, so less tender meats benefit from this method, and a natural smoke flavoring permeates the meat. The temperature in the smoker should be maintained at 250 F to 300 F for safety. Use a food thermometer to be sure the food has reached a safe internal temperature.
10. Pit Roasting
Cooking may require 10 to 12 hours or more and is difficult to estimate. A meat thermometer must be used to determine the meat's safety and doneness. There are many variables such as outdoor temperature, the size and thickness of the meat, and how fast the coals are cooking.
Copyright (c) Terry Nicholls. All Rights Reserved.
Cooking outdoors was once only a summer activity shared with family and friends. Now more than half of Americans say they are cooking outdoors year round. Use these simple guidelines for grilling food safely to prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying and causing food-borne illness.
1. Defrosting
Completely defrost meat and poultry before grilling so it cooks more evenly. Use the refrigerator for slow, safe thawing or thaw sealed packages in cold water. You can microwave defrost if the food will be placed immediately on the grill.
2. Marinating
Meat and poultry can be marinated for several hours or days to tenderize or add flavor. Be sure to marinate food in the refrigerator, not on the counter. If some of the marinade is to be used as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion of the marinade before putting raw meat and poultry in it. However, if the marinade used on raw meat or poultry is to be reused, make sure to let it come to a boil first to destroy any harmful bacteria.
3. Transporting
When carrying food to another location, keep it cold to minimize bacterial growth. Use an insulated cooler with sufficient ice or ice packs to keep the food at 40 F or below. Pack food right from the refrigerator into the cooler immediately before leaving home. Keep the cooler in the coolest part of the car.
4. Keep Cold Food Cold
When using a cooler, keep it out of the direct sun by placing it in the shade or shelter. Avoid opening the lid too often, which lets cold air out and warm air in. Pack beverages in one cooler & perishables in a separate cooler.
5. Keep Everything Clean
Be sure there are plenty of clean utensils and platters. To prevent food-borne illness, don't use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meat and poultry. Harmful bacteria present in raw meat and poultry and their juices can contaminate safely cooked food.
6. Cook Thoroughly
Cook food to a safe internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria. Meat and poultry cooked on a grill often browns very fast on the outside. Use a food thermometer to be sure the food has reached a safe internal temperature. Whole poultry should reach 180 F; breasts, 170 F. Hamburgers made of ground beef should reach 160 F; ground poultry, 165 F. Beef, veal, and lamb steaks, roasts and chops can be cooked to 145 F. All cuts of pork should reach 160 F. NEVER partially grill meat or poultry and finish cooking later.
7. Keep Hot Food Hot
After cooking meat and poultry on the grill, keep it hot until served -- at 140 F or warmer. Keep cooked meats hot by setting them to the side of the grill rack, not directly over the coals where they could overcook. At home, the cooked meat can be kept hot in a warm oven (approximately 200 F), in a chafing dish or slow cooker, or on a warming tray.
8. Serving Safely
When taking food off the grill, use a clean platter. Don't put cooked food on the same platter that held raw meat or poultry. Any harmful bacteria present in the raw meat juices could contaminate safely cooked food.
9. Safe Smoking
Smoking is done much more slowly than grilling, so less tender meats benefit from this method, and a natural smoke flavoring permeates the meat. The temperature in the smoker should be maintained at 250 F to 300 F for safety. Use a food thermometer to be sure the food has reached a safe internal temperature.
10. Pit Roasting
Cooking may require 10 to 12 hours or more and is difficult to estimate. A meat thermometer must be used to determine the meat's safety and doneness. There are many variables such as outdoor temperature, the size and thickness of the meat, and how fast the coals are cooking.
Copyright (c) Terry Nicholls. All Rights Reserved.
Low Fat Salmon Recipes
Finding delicious low fat salmon recipes has just become easier since you found our website. There are many wonderful low fat salmon recipes that will please your palate plus the palates of your dinner guests or family.
This first low fat salmon recipe uses yummy ingredients such as low or non-fat sour cream and low or non-fat mayonnaise to create a delectable creamy salmon recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
For this recipe you will need:
2 pounds of salmon filets,
cup of low or non-fat sour cream,
1/3 cup of low or non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of all purpose flour,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
8 ounces of low or non-fat cream cheese,
1 minced clove of garlic,
1/3 cup of your favorite white wine,
salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the salmon and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Use a non-stick spray such as Pam and spray your 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the salmon filets in the baking dish with the skin down in a single layer. In a medium size bowl, blend together the sour cream, mayonnaise, flour, lemon juice, cream cheese, garlic, and wine until smooth and well blended.
Now, with the back of a spoon spread the mixture over the salmon. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper and paprika to your liking. Do not cover and bake for around 20. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon is done and not overcooked. The internal temperature should be 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The salmon will still cook once you remove it from the heat source. Do not go by color alone.
You can also prepare low fat salmon recipes on your grill or barbeque and create some wonderful low fat sauces to enhance the flavor of your salmon.
A great sauce to serve along side grilled salmon is a low fat lemon dill sauce.
For this sauce you will need:
2 tablespoons of non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard,
teaspoon of dill weed,
salt and pepper to taste.
Blend together all ingredients with a wire whisk and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Finding delicious low fat salmon recipes has just become easier since you found our website. There are many wonderful low fat salmon recipes that will please your palate plus the palates of your dinner guests or family.
This first low fat salmon recipe uses yummy ingredients such as low or non-fat sour cream and low or non-fat mayonnaise to create a delectable creamy salmon recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
For this recipe you will need:
2 pounds of salmon filets,
cup of low or non-fat sour cream,
1/3 cup of low or non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of all purpose flour,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
8 ounces of low or non-fat cream cheese,
1 minced clove of garlic,
1/3 cup of your favorite white wine,
salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the salmon and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Use a non-stick spray such as Pam and spray your 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the salmon filets in the baking dish with the skin down in a single layer. In a medium size bowl, blend together the sour cream, mayonnaise, flour, lemon juice, cream cheese, garlic, and wine until smooth and well blended.
Now, with the back of a spoon spread the mixture over the salmon. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper and paprika to your liking. Do not cover and bake for around 20. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon is done and not overcooked. The internal temperature should be 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The salmon will still cook once you remove it from the heat source. Do not go by color alone.
You can also prepare low fat salmon recipes on your grill or barbeque and create some wonderful low fat sauces to enhance the flavor of your salmon.
A great sauce to serve along side grilled salmon is a low fat lemon dill sauce.
For this sauce you will need:
2 tablespoons of non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard,
teaspoon of dill weed,
salt and pepper to taste.
Blend together all ingredients with a wire whisk and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Baby Essentials - A Guide For First Time Mums
Are you a first time expectant mum wandering around the shops wondering do I really need that, or what is all this used for? If you answer yes to this question then you may find the following article useful.
I can remember during my first pregnancy looking at items in the baby section wondering if all these bits and pieces were really necessary, and wondered what half of them were used for. I was often confused and would buy things just in case. After the birth of my daughter I soon found that some of these items I definitely didnt need, and then there were others I just couldnt live without. I have put together a list of items that I personally feel are baby essentials and try to give you some insight into what and why you may be in need of them.
Essentials for baby
Bunny rugs/ muslin wraps These are used to wrap your baby in. Newborn babies usually like to be wrapped snugly as it gives them the secure feeling they had in the womb. The difference is that Bunny rugs are for cool weather and muslin wraps are for warm weather, so the time of year your baby is due will determine which you will require. Recommend 8-12 of which ever you require.
Baby towels - You can just use normal ones but baby towels are often smaller, lighter and softer. Recommend at least 3.
Cot sheets - Fitted are best to prevent loosening as baby will move around a lot as it gets older. Recommend 3 sets.
If you are using a cradle or bassinet to start with you will need special sheets to fit these. You can get away with just 2 sets as babies are only in them for a short time (6-10weeks) and if you run into trouble you can always use a bunny rug!
Mattress protectors Recommend 2-3.
Baby blankets - I don't use any baby bedding (blankets, top sheet ect) in the cot. Initially I wrapped baby in their bunny rug/muslin wrap and once they got to big I used baby sleeping bags or sleepsuits. Babies tend to kick blankets off , I found myself worrying they would wiggle under the loosened blankets, at the same time I worried baby would be too cold. Once I discovered baby sleeping bag/suits I never looked back. These types of suits go over the top of their normal sleeping outfits and allow baby freedom to kick and move about. SIDS bedding guidelines state that sleeping bags/suits are a safe bedding alternative as long as individual bags/suits meet the following safety standards neck and armholes should be fitted so that there is no chance of baby slipping inside the bag and it should not contain a hood. Baby sleeping conditions are not something to be taken lightly. I highly recommend that prior to making any decision in relation to how you will sleep your baby that you visit safe sleeping at the sids and kids website. This way you can make an informed decision on what will best suit your individual situation.
Baby nail clippers/scissors - Baby nails grow really quick and are sharp, often causing them to scratch themselves.
Baby cotton buds Used for cleaning outer ear, nose and belly buttons!! Look for the ones that are specially designed to prevent you from accidentally going in too far.
Baby moisturiser - Babies often get a bit scaly in their first few weeks while their skin is adjusting to the outside world.
Nappy bag A good quality nappy bag will have separate compartments to put your different bits and pieces in such as bottles, wipes, clothes ect.Look for one with a change mat attached as you will find this useful.
A gentle baby soap - I recommend Johnson's milk bath you just squirt it in the water, no need to juggle baby and soap.
Baby wipes - excellent for cleaning face, hands and bottoms, I'd be lost with out them. I recommend Huggies, you can get a refillable travel pack for the nappy bag and a clip top container for home. You can get cheaper brands but they are often thinner and harder to dispense.
Nappy rash cream - I use one called Sudocrem. I found it very effective and although it is a little more expensive then some of the others creams you will see, you tend to use less.
Bibs Bibs arent really necessary unless you are bottle feeding, or until baby starts on solids. Look for bibs that either slip straight over babys head or have velcro fasteners. I found soft plastic back bibs protected clothing better. Try to avoid bibs that require you to tie them, these can be difficult to manage when you have one hand holding the baby. Once baby is older using full plastic bibs while they are eating can save you a lot of washing.
Cloth nappies - whether or not your are going to use disposable nappies you will still need some cloth nappies, they come in handy for cleaning up and protecting yourself from baby vomit and placing under baby when you have nappy leaks! 12 should suffice if you are going to use disposables. Of course if you are not using disposables you are going to need a lot more, approximately 24-36 in total. Please note that I didn't use cloth nappies, I used disposables so if you intend on using cloth nappies then their maybe some extra things you need in relation to them - snappies or pins, nappy liners and possibly plastic pants or fluffies.
Nappy bucket If you are using cloth nappies you will probably need 2, one for the nappies, another for clothes/bibs ect. For those that are using disposables one will suffice (or some sort of bucket) for soaking clothes ect. For soaking the clothes you will need something like napisan. Lux flakes are also good for general washing of baby clothes as initially their skin can be sensitive.
The following items you may not want straight away but are something to think about:
A thermometer - If you think baby might be a bit off colour it can help put your mind at rest. I eventually bought a tympanic one as I grew tired of trying to keep baby still while the thermometer was under their arm. The advantage of a tympanic thermometer is you use their ear and it only takes a couple of seconds to register, the problem is they are expensive.
Bottles It does pay to have one or two bottles even if you plan to breastfeed, just in case you need to be away from baby for some reason or you just need a break. You will also need a couple of newborn teats, a bottle brush and some sterilising equipment. Microwave sterilisers are very effective and are not expensive. If for some reason you are unable to breastfeed or you plan to wean baby in the first year you will need more bottles, approximately 8.
Breast pump This will totally depend on your situation. If you are going back to work early but want to continue to breast feed an electric pump would be of benefit. You can hire these from some hospitals and pharmacies if your budget is tight. If you only want to express milk for the rare occasion then a hand pump will be sufficient.
I hope that this article has enlightened you on what products you may require for the upcoming birth of your child. If you feel that there are any items that are definite essentials that are missing from this list feel free to contact me through our website and I will add them.
Please note that I have mentioned brand names throughout the article but I am in no way affiliated with these companies, nor are they products that I sell on my site, I genuinely found them to be worth the money you pay for them.
Are you a first time expectant mum wandering around the shops wondering do I really need that, or what is all this used for? If you answer yes to this question then you may find the following article useful.
I can remember during my first pregnancy looking at items in the baby section wondering if all these bits and pieces were really necessary, and wondered what half of them were used for. I was often confused and would buy things just in case. After the birth of my daughter I soon found that some of these items I definitely didnt need, and then there were others I just couldnt live without. I have put together a list of items that I personally feel are baby essentials and try to give you some insight into what and why you may be in need of them.
Essentials for baby
Bunny rugs/ muslin wraps These are used to wrap your baby in. Newborn babies usually like to be wrapped snugly as it gives them the secure feeling they had in the womb. The difference is that Bunny rugs are for cool weather and muslin wraps are for warm weather, so the time of year your baby is due will determine which you will require. Recommend 8-12 of which ever you require.
Baby towels - You can just use normal ones but baby towels are often smaller, lighter and softer. Recommend at least 3.
Cot sheets - Fitted are best to prevent loosening as baby will move around a lot as it gets older. Recommend 3 sets.
If you are using a cradle or bassinet to start with you will need special sheets to fit these. You can get away with just 2 sets as babies are only in them for a short time (6-10weeks) and if you run into trouble you can always use a bunny rug!
Mattress protectors Recommend 2-3.
Baby blankets - I don't use any baby bedding (blankets, top sheet ect) in the cot. Initially I wrapped baby in their bunny rug/muslin wrap and once they got to big I used baby sleeping bags or sleepsuits. Babies tend to kick blankets off , I found myself worrying they would wiggle under the loosened blankets, at the same time I worried baby would be too cold. Once I discovered baby sleeping bag/suits I never looked back. These types of suits go over the top of their normal sleeping outfits and allow baby freedom to kick and move about. SIDS bedding guidelines state that sleeping bags/suits are a safe bedding alternative as long as individual bags/suits meet the following safety standards neck and armholes should be fitted so that there is no chance of baby slipping inside the bag and it should not contain a hood. Baby sleeping conditions are not something to be taken lightly. I highly recommend that prior to making any decision in relation to how you will sleep your baby that you visit safe sleeping at the sids and kids website. This way you can make an informed decision on what will best suit your individual situation.
Baby nail clippers/scissors - Baby nails grow really quick and are sharp, often causing them to scratch themselves.
Baby cotton buds Used for cleaning outer ear, nose and belly buttons!! Look for the ones that are specially designed to prevent you from accidentally going in too far.
Baby moisturiser - Babies often get a bit scaly in their first few weeks while their skin is adjusting to the outside world.
Nappy bag A good quality nappy bag will have separate compartments to put your different bits and pieces in such as bottles, wipes, clothes ect.Look for one with a change mat attached as you will find this useful.
A gentle baby soap - I recommend Johnson's milk bath you just squirt it in the water, no need to juggle baby and soap.
Baby wipes - excellent for cleaning face, hands and bottoms, I'd be lost with out them. I recommend Huggies, you can get a refillable travel pack for the nappy bag and a clip top container for home. You can get cheaper brands but they are often thinner and harder to dispense.
Nappy rash cream - I use one called Sudocrem. I found it very effective and although it is a little more expensive then some of the others creams you will see, you tend to use less.
Bibs Bibs arent really necessary unless you are bottle feeding, or until baby starts on solids. Look for bibs that either slip straight over babys head or have velcro fasteners. I found soft plastic back bibs protected clothing better. Try to avoid bibs that require you to tie them, these can be difficult to manage when you have one hand holding the baby. Once baby is older using full plastic bibs while they are eating can save you a lot of washing.
Cloth nappies - whether or not your are going to use disposable nappies you will still need some cloth nappies, they come in handy for cleaning up and protecting yourself from baby vomit and placing under baby when you have nappy leaks! 12 should suffice if you are going to use disposables. Of course if you are not using disposables you are going to need a lot more, approximately 24-36 in total. Please note that I didn't use cloth nappies, I used disposables so if you intend on using cloth nappies then their maybe some extra things you need in relation to them - snappies or pins, nappy liners and possibly plastic pants or fluffies.
Nappy bucket If you are using cloth nappies you will probably need 2, one for the nappies, another for clothes/bibs ect. For those that are using disposables one will suffice (or some sort of bucket) for soaking clothes ect. For soaking the clothes you will need something like napisan. Lux flakes are also good for general washing of baby clothes as initially their skin can be sensitive.
The following items you may not want straight away but are something to think about:
A thermometer - If you think baby might be a bit off colour it can help put your mind at rest. I eventually bought a tympanic one as I grew tired of trying to keep baby still while the thermometer was under their arm. The advantage of a tympanic thermometer is you use their ear and it only takes a couple of seconds to register, the problem is they are expensive.
Bottles It does pay to have one or two bottles even if you plan to breastfeed, just in case you need to be away from baby for some reason or you just need a break. You will also need a couple of newborn teats, a bottle brush and some sterilising equipment. Microwave sterilisers are very effective and are not expensive. If for some reason you are unable to breastfeed or you plan to wean baby in the first year you will need more bottles, approximately 8.
Breast pump This will totally depend on your situation. If you are going back to work early but want to continue to breast feed an electric pump would be of benefit. You can hire these from some hospitals and pharmacies if your budget is tight. If you only want to express milk for the rare occasion then a hand pump will be sufficient.
I hope that this article has enlightened you on what products you may require for the upcoming birth of your child. If you feel that there are any items that are definite essentials that are missing from this list feel free to contact me through our website and I will add them.
Please note that I have mentioned brand names throughout the article but I am in no way affiliated with these companies, nor are they products that I sell on my site, I genuinely found them to be worth the money you pay for them.
HGH the Human Growth Hormone Supplement for 50 and Over
When I was 21 my eyesight was keener, I was stronger, my skin looked smooth, my sex drive was in overdrive and I felt like I could pick up the world, place it on my shoulder and walk off with it. Well now I am 56 and it feels like I did pick up the World on my shoulder and now I have no place to put it down!
Welcome to 50 and over! As you age your pituitary gland produces less human growth hormone than it did at your peak, which was 21. The ideal condition would be to stimulate the pituitary to produce more HGH to prevent aging.
Human growth hormone has been collected by harvesting HGH from other humans and injecting the foreign HGH into the body at a cost of $3000.00 to $4000.00 a month. This application requires a prescription. There is another method called precursors that can allow the level of HGH to go below the level that you are currently manufacturing in your body, which is dangerous as it may cause the pituitary to shut down. The Homeopathic version includes small amounts of human growth hormone that is activated by transferring energy from the homeopathics hand into the bottle of formulation. No clinical evidence supports this method of production at this time. And then there is the natural way. A releaser is natural herbs and minerals that stimulate your pituitary gland to produce more HGH, which gives you a more youthful life and body with no side effects. The releaser should only be chosen that has a clinical history; doctor formulated and be taken orally.
I was beginning to see age spots on my skin, hair thinning, loss of libido, memory playing tricks on me, having trouble sleeping, vision dimming, and the lack of energy. I began to see the benefits of using an HGH supplement that would stimulate the pituitary gland. My cholesterol level has become like the thermometer, up and down like the temperature and wrinkles where I never had them before. Some people want to roll back the aging clock back; I just want to stop it! If an HGH supplement will arrest my aging process and take some time off this body that I have accumulated, Ill consider it a bonus!
When you are 50 and over you soon grow to realize quality of life far exceeds quantity of years. I watch folks my age and younger now struggle to get up from a couch, groan as they stand after sitting, ache for no apparent reason and I am happy for the discovery of HGH supplements and the myth busting of the fountain of youth.
There are vendors who sell HGH plus other natural vitamins, supplements and minerals. Most are without clinical trials to back their product. I tried to find a product that had a 10-year history and a doctor formulated product that would have no side effects on ME other than natural youth changes. I also looked for a reputable company to buy from that had a money back guarantee and a professional web presentation.
When I was 21 my eyesight was keener, I was stronger, my skin looked smooth, my sex drive was in overdrive and I felt like I could pick up the world, place it on my shoulder and walk off with it. Well now I am 56 and it feels like I did pick up the World on my shoulder and now I have no place to put it down!
Welcome to 50 and over! As you age your pituitary gland produces less human growth hormone than it did at your peak, which was 21. The ideal condition would be to stimulate the pituitary to produce more HGH to prevent aging.
Human growth hormone has been collected by harvesting HGH from other humans and injecting the foreign HGH into the body at a cost of $3000.00 to $4000.00 a month. This application requires a prescription. There is another method called precursors that can allow the level of HGH to go below the level that you are currently manufacturing in your body, which is dangerous as it may cause the pituitary to shut down. The Homeopathic version includes small amounts of human growth hormone that is activated by transferring energy from the homeopathics hand into the bottle of formulation. No clinical evidence supports this method of production at this time. And then there is the natural way. A releaser is natural herbs and minerals that stimulate your pituitary gland to produce more HGH, which gives you a more youthful life and body with no side effects. The releaser should only be chosen that has a clinical history; doctor formulated and be taken orally.
I was beginning to see age spots on my skin, hair thinning, loss of libido, memory playing tricks on me, having trouble sleeping, vision dimming, and the lack of energy. I began to see the benefits of using an HGH supplement that would stimulate the pituitary gland. My cholesterol level has become like the thermometer, up and down like the temperature and wrinkles where I never had them before. Some people want to roll back the aging clock back; I just want to stop it! If an HGH supplement will arrest my aging process and take some time off this body that I have accumulated, Ill consider it a bonus!
When you are 50 and over you soon grow to realize quality of life far exceeds quantity of years. I watch folks my age and younger now struggle to get up from a couch, groan as they stand after sitting, ache for no apparent reason and I am happy for the discovery of HGH supplements and the myth busting of the fountain of youth.
There are vendors who sell HGH plus other natural vitamins, supplements and minerals. Most are without clinical trials to back their product. I tried to find a product that had a 10-year history and a doctor formulated product that would have no side effects on ME other than natural youth changes. I also looked for a reputable company to buy from that had a money back guarantee and a professional web presentation.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Assembling a Baby Shower Gift Basket: Get Creative
A Baby Shower Gift Basket is just the sort of thing you'd like to give to would-be parents.
Baby showers give you a wonderful opportunity to express your warmth and encouragement for the expecting couple. You can make it a little bit easier for them by giving them what they need. You can also use your artistic sense to make the event memorable and successful. A baby shower gift basket lets you do just that, by combining beauty and utility.
Choose a large basket or hamper for this purpose, one that has a lot of hollow space. Fill it with items that would be useful, and at the same time can be arranged nicely and artistically.
An infant-sized bathtub isn't too expensive, but a nice utility item, and looks great too. A caddy or a bathroom bucket is also very useful for carrying the baby's clothes around, and they are even cheaper than the tub. Soaps, lotions, towels and diapers are other items that you can include if you want to stick with the bath theme for the baby shower gift basket.
Another useful theme is health and safety. You can pack the hamper with useful yet not-too-expensive medical items like commonly prescribed drugs for children fever reducers, tummy ache medicine and so on. A thermometer, infant nail clippers and a first aid kit are nice additions.
Some people prefer not to focus on a theme, and just put in whatever they think will be useful in their baby shower gift basket. That also works, as long as it is done with an eye to arrangement and shapeliness. Diapers are something that the expectant mother will need lots of quite soon so give her lots of those. Picture books, feeding bottles, bibs, rattles and other toys can be both useful and attractively arranged.
The secret of assembling a successful and attractive baby shower gift basket is to add personalizing touches. So try to include the baby's name (if it is already fixed) or the date of birth (if it is already known) in artistic lettering or calligraphic writing. Do that extra bit to show that you care. Usefulness is good, but usefulness plus love and personal care is even better. Put together a baby shower gift basket.
A Baby Shower Gift Basket is just the sort of thing you'd like to give to would-be parents.
Baby showers give you a wonderful opportunity to express your warmth and encouragement for the expecting couple. You can make it a little bit easier for them by giving them what they need. You can also use your artistic sense to make the event memorable and successful. A baby shower gift basket lets you do just that, by combining beauty and utility.
Choose a large basket or hamper for this purpose, one that has a lot of hollow space. Fill it with items that would be useful, and at the same time can be arranged nicely and artistically.
An infant-sized bathtub isn't too expensive, but a nice utility item, and looks great too. A caddy or a bathroom bucket is also very useful for carrying the baby's clothes around, and they are even cheaper than the tub. Soaps, lotions, towels and diapers are other items that you can include if you want to stick with the bath theme for the baby shower gift basket.
Another useful theme is health and safety. You can pack the hamper with useful yet not-too-expensive medical items like commonly prescribed drugs for children fever reducers, tummy ache medicine and so on. A thermometer, infant nail clippers and a first aid kit are nice additions.
Some people prefer not to focus on a theme, and just put in whatever they think will be useful in their baby shower gift basket. That also works, as long as it is done with an eye to arrangement and shapeliness. Diapers are something that the expectant mother will need lots of quite soon so give her lots of those. Picture books, feeding bottles, bibs, rattles and other toys can be both useful and attractively arranged.
The secret of assembling a successful and attractive baby shower gift basket is to add personalizing touches. So try to include the baby's name (if it is already fixed) or the date of birth (if it is already known) in artistic lettering or calligraphic writing. Do that extra bit to show that you care. Usefulness is good, but usefulness plus love and personal care is even better. Put together a baby shower gift basket.
Baby Shower Game
Tray Game
For this baby shower game, you will need a tray and about 20 to 25 small items that would be associated with a baby. For instance, you might choose socks, rattle, teething ring, baby book, thermometer, baby food jar, washcloth, diaper pins, piggy bank, spoon, and so on.With everyone sitting around a circle, pass the tray with all the items on it around the room.Once the last person has had time to view all the items, put the tray out of sight. Then, go back to the person that first viewed the tray and see how many items he or she can name.
Keep in mind that someone will need to keep track of each person's guess with the use of a check off list. That way, you will know the person or persons that win.
Gifts could include something like scented candles, bath soaps, or boxed chocolates. Finally, after the Baby Shower Game is over, all the items on the tray are then presented to the mother-to-be!
Remember that these games are not serious and should be treated very light heartedly by all. The object of the baby shower game is to relax the guests and allow everyone time to get to know each other
Tray Game
For this baby shower game, you will need a tray and about 20 to 25 small items that would be associated with a baby. For instance, you might choose socks, rattle, teething ring, baby book, thermometer, baby food jar, washcloth, diaper pins, piggy bank, spoon, and so on.With everyone sitting around a circle, pass the tray with all the items on it around the room.Once the last person has had time to view all the items, put the tray out of sight. Then, go back to the person that first viewed the tray and see how many items he or she can name.
Keep in mind that someone will need to keep track of each person's guess with the use of a check off list. That way, you will know the person or persons that win.
Gifts could include something like scented candles, bath soaps, or boxed chocolates. Finally, after the Baby Shower Game is over, all the items on the tray are then presented to the mother-to-be!
Remember that these games are not serious and should be treated very light heartedly by all. The object of the baby shower game is to relax the guests and allow everyone time to get to know each other
Friday, January 19, 2007
Menstrual Calendar, Charting Your Signs of Fertility
Charting the signs of our menstrual cycle is a good way to keep in touch with our bodies, our feelings, and our health. It is also a good way to predict our days of menstruation in advance, even if menstrual cycles are irregular, and to know the most fertile times if we are hoping to conceive.
Cervical Mucus
The sign that is easier to observe is the cervical mucus, since it is noticed in the course of daily activity. Fertile type mucus is produced by the cervix during the days when the ova are maturing and preparing for ovulation. This mucus is not only an indicator of fertility, it is essential for fertility. Cervical mucus nourishes the sperm, protects them from the natural acidity of the vagina, and guides them toward the ovum. Following is a simple way to observe and chart your fertile type mucus.
Pay attention to how you feel as you go about your daily activities. Just as you have learned to notice a certain wetness at menstruation, you will begin to notice a second wet time, but later in the cycle, and without bleeding. The second wet time is caused by your fertile type mucus.
Each time you go to the bathroom, wipe with toilet paper both before and after you use the toilet, noticing: a) the sensation you feel as you wipe with toilet paper, b) what is on the toilet paper. Chart what you see and what you feel in the following way. Or use any charting method that makes sense to you.
1) Menstruation: mark the days of bleeding in some way, such as coloring the calendar day red.
2) Nothing: if you don't see or feel anything outside your vagina, you can leave the calendar blank on those days.
3) Something: but if you see or feel something - anything -such as pasty or sticky mucus, or a feeling of wetness - draw something, such as a raindrop, on these days.
4) Slippery something: If the pasty or sticky mucus turns to slippery mucus or a slippery feeling, color the raindrop dark to indicate the slippery wetness.
After a few slippery wet days, the mucus may disappear or return to sticky or pasty. When it does, begin to count the days until menstruation arrives. In a normal fertile cycle, the time between the last day of slippery mucus or slippery feeling and the next menstruation is between 11-16 days. You will become quite accurate about your predictions after you chart for about three cycles.
The mucus is your most fertile time, since fertile type is produced during the days leading up to and including ovulation. But don't try to use this information for birth control unless you seek out a qualified teacher of fertility awareness or natural family planning. However, if you are hoping to become pregnant, charting the mucus and the dry times of the cycle will allow you to know your most fertile time. It will also allow you to predict your next menstruation with accuracy, and to begin a new and sensitive relationship with yourself.
Under the influence of the hormone estrogen, when the fertile mucus is present, we may feel courageous and loving. Men who bored us last week may suddenly appear interesting and attractive. Like Mother Earth in her rainy season, we are full of potential. We may also be interested in sexual activity. These emotions and reactions are caused by the hormone estrogen, which is getting us ready to have a baby, even though we may not want that for ourselves yet!
After ovulation, under the influence of the hormone progesterone, we may feel somewhat deflated compared to our wet, fertile time. Like Mother Earth in her dry time, we may feel quiet, with less energy. When menstrual bleeding begins, both estrogen and progesterone are at low levels. We may feel sensitive, solitary, or inward.
Generally speaking, dark red bleeding for about three days indicates that hormones are high enough to build a good uterine lining and nourish a fetus in the event of conception. However, more than three days of heavy bleeding can be exhausting. Three to five days of wet, slippery mucus 11-14 days before the next menstruation is a probable indicator of normal ovulation and a fertile cycle. Cycles are often 28-30 days from the first day of bleeding to the first day of the bleeding of the next menstruation. However, irregular cycles do not indicate infertility. If the time between the last day of slippery mucus and the next menstruation is 11-16 days, the cycle is probably fertile. Even if one cycle is not fertile, the next may well be fertile. Much depends on the stress we may be feeling. Keeping a chart allows us to keep all things in perspective, and feel our own harmony with all the cycles of nature.
Basal Body Temperature
If you are not sure you are ovulating, you can take your temperature. The body's resting temperature increases four-tenths of a degree Fahrenheit or two-tenths of a degree Centigrade under the influence of progesterone at ovulation. Observing this sign involves taking your temperature at the same time each morning before rising. (This is not as hard as it sounds. It takes less than two minutes and you can go back to sleep if you want.)
To observe your temperature rise, buy a BD brand digital basal thermometer. This brand will give you a consistent and accurate reading. Other high quality brands of digital basal thermometers are also probably accurate, but have not been tested for fertility awareness. Make sure the battery is good. (You can replace it.) An ordinary clinical thermometer is not accurate enough for fertility awareness. Nor is the "ear thermometer" (tympanic thermometer).
Take your temperature every day immediately upon waking, before 7:30 a.m. The body's rhythms (circadian rhythms) fluctuate over a 24-hour period. Your temperature is lowest in the early morning and highest in the afternoon. Fluctuations are greater after 7:30 a.m. If you go to bed before midnight and wake up before 7:30 a.m., you will get the clearest temperature readings.
If it is not convenient to take your temperature immediately upon waking, you may take it during light morning activity. For example, if you need to go to the bathroom, you may take your temperature while getting up and using the toilet. But be consistent about the circumstances under which you take your temperature. If you take it during light morning activity, take it that way every morning. Don't take it sometimes before getting up and at other times during light morning activity. If you have sexual relations, take your temperature before.
Many women find that the digital thermometers require such a short time to use that it is easy to take their temperature before getting up. Take your temperature by mouth. Under arm and ear temperatures are not accurate enough for family planning purposes. The thermometer will beep softly several times before beginning to beep slightly louder and repeatedly. Keep the thermometer under your tongue until the louder, repeated beeps begin. You can read and chart your temperature as soon as is convenient after taking it. Your thermometer has a recall button that allows you to read the last temperature taken. Be sure to wash your thermometer after each use.
Your Temperature Graph
Put a dot on a graph on the spot corresponding to each day's temperature. Join the dots of consecutive days. If you do not take your temperature one day, do not join the dots across that day. Also write out the temperature numerically, to guard against errors in graphing.
Interpreting Your Chart
1) Breathe and relax. Study your chart.
2) Can you find six low temperatures during the fertile mucus days of your cycle?
3) Draw a horizontal line at the highest of the six low temperatures. This is your low temperature line.
4) Draw another horizontal line four-tenths of a degree F. or two-tenths of a degree C. above your low temperature line. This is your full thermal shift line.
5) Can you find three high temperatures after the low temperatures? All of the high temperatures must be above the low temperature line. At least the third high temperature must be at or above the full thermal shift line.
6) This temperature pattern of low and high temperatures is called a biphasic pattern with a full thermal shift. A biphasic pattern with a full thermal shift confirms that you really did ovulate. A smaller, but sustained temperature rise also probably indicates ovulation.
If you are hoping to become pregnant, please pay close attention to nutrition. Look for unprocessed foods grown without chemicals. Exercise in moderation. Get plenty of rest. Avoid stress. Think happy thoughts. Pray for the child you desire, and begin sending your child love, now. Heal any hurtful feelings between you and your mate, and between you both and your parents. Your mate should avoid hot shower or baths and tight clothing, both of which lower sperm count.To increase your chances of conception, use the wet, slippery days for sexual relations.
If you have observed a biphasic pattern with a full thermal shift, and it is now 18 days since your last slippery, wet day, and menstruation has not arrived, you may feel confident that you have conceived.
Congratulations and blessings!
Charting the signs of our menstrual cycle is a good way to keep in touch with our bodies, our feelings, and our health. It is also a good way to predict our days of menstruation in advance, even if menstrual cycles are irregular, and to know the most fertile times if we are hoping to conceive.
Cervical Mucus
The sign that is easier to observe is the cervical mucus, since it is noticed in the course of daily activity. Fertile type mucus is produced by the cervix during the days when the ova are maturing and preparing for ovulation. This mucus is not only an indicator of fertility, it is essential for fertility. Cervical mucus nourishes the sperm, protects them from the natural acidity of the vagina, and guides them toward the ovum. Following is a simple way to observe and chart your fertile type mucus.
Pay attention to how you feel as you go about your daily activities. Just as you have learned to notice a certain wetness at menstruation, you will begin to notice a second wet time, but later in the cycle, and without bleeding. The second wet time is caused by your fertile type mucus.
Each time you go to the bathroom, wipe with toilet paper both before and after you use the toilet, noticing: a) the sensation you feel as you wipe with toilet paper, b) what is on the toilet paper. Chart what you see and what you feel in the following way. Or use any charting method that makes sense to you.
1) Menstruation: mark the days of bleeding in some way, such as coloring the calendar day red.
2) Nothing: if you don't see or feel anything outside your vagina, you can leave the calendar blank on those days.
3) Something: but if you see or feel something - anything -such as pasty or sticky mucus, or a feeling of wetness - draw something, such as a raindrop, on these days.
4) Slippery something: If the pasty or sticky mucus turns to slippery mucus or a slippery feeling, color the raindrop dark to indicate the slippery wetness.
After a few slippery wet days, the mucus may disappear or return to sticky or pasty. When it does, begin to count the days until menstruation arrives. In a normal fertile cycle, the time between the last day of slippery mucus or slippery feeling and the next menstruation is between 11-16 days. You will become quite accurate about your predictions after you chart for about three cycles.
The mucus is your most fertile time, since fertile type is produced during the days leading up to and including ovulation. But don't try to use this information for birth control unless you seek out a qualified teacher of fertility awareness or natural family planning. However, if you are hoping to become pregnant, charting the mucus and the dry times of the cycle will allow you to know your most fertile time. It will also allow you to predict your next menstruation with accuracy, and to begin a new and sensitive relationship with yourself.
Under the influence of the hormone estrogen, when the fertile mucus is present, we may feel courageous and loving. Men who bored us last week may suddenly appear interesting and attractive. Like Mother Earth in her rainy season, we are full of potential. We may also be interested in sexual activity. These emotions and reactions are caused by the hormone estrogen, which is getting us ready to have a baby, even though we may not want that for ourselves yet!
After ovulation, under the influence of the hormone progesterone, we may feel somewhat deflated compared to our wet, fertile time. Like Mother Earth in her dry time, we may feel quiet, with less energy. When menstrual bleeding begins, both estrogen and progesterone are at low levels. We may feel sensitive, solitary, or inward.
Generally speaking, dark red bleeding for about three days indicates that hormones are high enough to build a good uterine lining and nourish a fetus in the event of conception. However, more than three days of heavy bleeding can be exhausting. Three to five days of wet, slippery mucus 11-14 days before the next menstruation is a probable indicator of normal ovulation and a fertile cycle. Cycles are often 28-30 days from the first day of bleeding to the first day of the bleeding of the next menstruation. However, irregular cycles do not indicate infertility. If the time between the last day of slippery mucus and the next menstruation is 11-16 days, the cycle is probably fertile. Even if one cycle is not fertile, the next may well be fertile. Much depends on the stress we may be feeling. Keeping a chart allows us to keep all things in perspective, and feel our own harmony with all the cycles of nature.
Basal Body Temperature
If you are not sure you are ovulating, you can take your temperature. The body's resting temperature increases four-tenths of a degree Fahrenheit or two-tenths of a degree Centigrade under the influence of progesterone at ovulation. Observing this sign involves taking your temperature at the same time each morning before rising. (This is not as hard as it sounds. It takes less than two minutes and you can go back to sleep if you want.)
To observe your temperature rise, buy a BD brand digital basal thermometer. This brand will give you a consistent and accurate reading. Other high quality brands of digital basal thermometers are also probably accurate, but have not been tested for fertility awareness. Make sure the battery is good. (You can replace it.) An ordinary clinical thermometer is not accurate enough for fertility awareness. Nor is the "ear thermometer" (tympanic thermometer).
Take your temperature every day immediately upon waking, before 7:30 a.m. The body's rhythms (circadian rhythms) fluctuate over a 24-hour period. Your temperature is lowest in the early morning and highest in the afternoon. Fluctuations are greater after 7:30 a.m. If you go to bed before midnight and wake up before 7:30 a.m., you will get the clearest temperature readings.
If it is not convenient to take your temperature immediately upon waking, you may take it during light morning activity. For example, if you need to go to the bathroom, you may take your temperature while getting up and using the toilet. But be consistent about the circumstances under which you take your temperature. If you take it during light morning activity, take it that way every morning. Don't take it sometimes before getting up and at other times during light morning activity. If you have sexual relations, take your temperature before.
Many women find that the digital thermometers require such a short time to use that it is easy to take their temperature before getting up. Take your temperature by mouth. Under arm and ear temperatures are not accurate enough for family planning purposes. The thermometer will beep softly several times before beginning to beep slightly louder and repeatedly. Keep the thermometer under your tongue until the louder, repeated beeps begin. You can read and chart your temperature as soon as is convenient after taking it. Your thermometer has a recall button that allows you to read the last temperature taken. Be sure to wash your thermometer after each use.
Your Temperature Graph
Put a dot on a graph on the spot corresponding to each day's temperature. Join the dots of consecutive days. If you do not take your temperature one day, do not join the dots across that day. Also write out the temperature numerically, to guard against errors in graphing.
Interpreting Your Chart
1) Breathe and relax. Study your chart.
2) Can you find six low temperatures during the fertile mucus days of your cycle?
3) Draw a horizontal line at the highest of the six low temperatures. This is your low temperature line.
4) Draw another horizontal line four-tenths of a degree F. or two-tenths of a degree C. above your low temperature line. This is your full thermal shift line.
5) Can you find three high temperatures after the low temperatures? All of the high temperatures must be above the low temperature line. At least the third high temperature must be at or above the full thermal shift line.
6) This temperature pattern of low and high temperatures is called a biphasic pattern with a full thermal shift. A biphasic pattern with a full thermal shift confirms that you really did ovulate. A smaller, but sustained temperature rise also probably indicates ovulation.
If you are hoping to become pregnant, please pay close attention to nutrition. Look for unprocessed foods grown without chemicals. Exercise in moderation. Get plenty of rest. Avoid stress. Think happy thoughts. Pray for the child you desire, and begin sending your child love, now. Heal any hurtful feelings between you and your mate, and between you both and your parents. Your mate should avoid hot shower or baths and tight clothing, both of which lower sperm count.To increase your chances of conception, use the wet, slippery days for sexual relations.
If you have observed a biphasic pattern with a full thermal shift, and it is now 18 days since your last slippery, wet day, and menstruation has not arrived, you may feel confident that you have conceived.
Congratulations and blessings!
Cappuccino Secrets: Creating the Perfect Foam
Here is an article that tells the secret of creating the perfect foam with steamed milk for making a wonderful cappuccino. As you'll see creating the perfect foam isn't as easy as it may seem ...
Most places that serve cappuccinos in the United States have not trained their baristas in the art of properly frothing milk. The foam that they create is usually a dry, tasteless, large celled collection of bubbles that sit on top of the espresso like a meringue.
With a little care, you can create steamed milk that is velvety smooth like the texture of wet shaving cream. The bubbles will be so small that you can barely see them! This is the way its supposed to be, because this way, it will blend with the espresso, creating a harmony of the flavors instead of a dry, tasteless cap floating on top. Lets Begin.
First off, its important to start with cold milk thats just out of the fridge. Pour the milk into the steaming pitcher until it is just about 1/3 of the way full. Milk will double to triple in volume after the frothing process. A stainless steel pitcher works best. It will dissipate some of the heat, allowing more time to infuse air into the milk before the milk gets too hot.
For a home made cappuccino, you'll have to learn the art of creating a perfect foam.
Also use a thermometer to get the milk to the correct temperature of 145 degrees. There are many thermometers made for this purpose that will clip onto the side of the pitcher for convenience.
The Technique:
Purge the steam wand onto a damp towel by releasing the valve for a few seconds. Be very careful not to burn yourself, the steam will be extremely hot. This purging will get all of the water out so you dont get it in your milk.
Next, submerge the wand into the milk and quickly turn the steam on full power. Avoid letting the tip of the wand come out of the milk. This will cause splattering and create large, tasteless bubbles.
Adjust the wand so that it is pointing off center in order to get the milk to flowing in a rapid, circular motion. Maintaining this fast, circulating vortex is vital.
Then, slowly lower the pitcher until the tip of the wand is just below the surface of the milk (keeping the circulation going). When you can hear a hissing noise, similar to bacon frying, you have reached the perfect position for the wand to inject air into the milk.
Try to maintain this hissing noise while keeping the milk rotating. You will have to slowly lower the pitcher as the milk volume rises in order to keep the wand tip just under the surface.
By keeping the milk flowing in a rapid circle, any large bubbles that are accidentally created will be rolled into the milk and eliminated. Continue steaming until the milk reaches 145 degrees. Be careful not to get the milk too hot, it will scald giving it a bad taste.
Thats pretty much it! If you have a few large bubbles, you can try to get rid of them by tapping the bottom of the pitcher lightly on the counter. Serve immediately and enjoy some of the silkiest frothed milk you have ever tasted!
One more thing, now that you know how to properly steam the milk, notice how few coffee houses have baristas that take care in this process. Very few use thermometers and end up scalding the milk, or leaving it too cold.
Most will just leave the pitcher sitting there while the wand blows into the milk. Some will use an up and down motion, but this does absolutely nothing for creating tiny, velvety bubbles. Its the rolling action of the milk thats needed.
If you find a barista that shows this skill of frothing milk, then stay with him! Hes been trained and probably takes pride in what he does.
Here is an article that tells the secret of creating the perfect foam with steamed milk for making a wonderful cappuccino. As you'll see creating the perfect foam isn't as easy as it may seem ...
Most places that serve cappuccinos in the United States have not trained their baristas in the art of properly frothing milk. The foam that they create is usually a dry, tasteless, large celled collection of bubbles that sit on top of the espresso like a meringue.
With a little care, you can create steamed milk that is velvety smooth like the texture of wet shaving cream. The bubbles will be so small that you can barely see them! This is the way its supposed to be, because this way, it will blend with the espresso, creating a harmony of the flavors instead of a dry, tasteless cap floating on top. Lets Begin.
First off, its important to start with cold milk thats just out of the fridge. Pour the milk into the steaming pitcher until it is just about 1/3 of the way full. Milk will double to triple in volume after the frothing process. A stainless steel pitcher works best. It will dissipate some of the heat, allowing more time to infuse air into the milk before the milk gets too hot.
For a home made cappuccino, you'll have to learn the art of creating a perfect foam.
Also use a thermometer to get the milk to the correct temperature of 145 degrees. There are many thermometers made for this purpose that will clip onto the side of the pitcher for convenience.
The Technique:
Purge the steam wand onto a damp towel by releasing the valve for a few seconds. Be very careful not to burn yourself, the steam will be extremely hot. This purging will get all of the water out so you dont get it in your milk.
Next, submerge the wand into the milk and quickly turn the steam on full power. Avoid letting the tip of the wand come out of the milk. This will cause splattering and create large, tasteless bubbles.
Adjust the wand so that it is pointing off center in order to get the milk to flowing in a rapid, circular motion. Maintaining this fast, circulating vortex is vital.
Then, slowly lower the pitcher until the tip of the wand is just below the surface of the milk (keeping the circulation going). When you can hear a hissing noise, similar to bacon frying, you have reached the perfect position for the wand to inject air into the milk.
Try to maintain this hissing noise while keeping the milk rotating. You will have to slowly lower the pitcher as the milk volume rises in order to keep the wand tip just under the surface.
By keeping the milk flowing in a rapid circle, any large bubbles that are accidentally created will be rolled into the milk and eliminated. Continue steaming until the milk reaches 145 degrees. Be careful not to get the milk too hot, it will scald giving it a bad taste.
Thats pretty much it! If you have a few large bubbles, you can try to get rid of them by tapping the bottom of the pitcher lightly on the counter. Serve immediately and enjoy some of the silkiest frothed milk you have ever tasted!
One more thing, now that you know how to properly steam the milk, notice how few coffee houses have baristas that take care in this process. Very few use thermometers and end up scalding the milk, or leaving it too cold.
Most will just leave the pitcher sitting there while the wand blows into the milk. Some will use an up and down motion, but this does absolutely nothing for creating tiny, velvety bubbles. Its the rolling action of the milk thats needed.
If you find a barista that shows this skill of frothing milk, then stay with him! Hes been trained and probably takes pride in what he does.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Sanity Savers for the Thanksgiving Hostess
The first time I hosted Thanksgiving dinner for my husbands family, I was a new bride of only three months. I had never attended a family holiday event before my marriage because I lived out-of-state. Add to the mix my mother-in-law, three stepchildren, my husbands ex-wife, four sister-in-laws, and assorted children and husbands. I felt like I was blindfolded and sky-diving without a parachute.
I spent that first Thanksgiving morning frantically cleaning and peeling potatoes like a madwoman. Unforeseen shortages sent me scrambling twice - to the only open grocery store within twenty miles in my pajamas. Now things go a lot smoother, because Ive learned a few secrets to make hosting Thanksgiving dinner for twenty in-laws manageable, and even enjoyable.
(1) Learn the traditions combined families bring to the table, and honor both, not just one. If it means you have doubles of a few dishes so be it. My husbands family has a thing about stuffing they like the old-fashioned starts-out-like-croutons-in-the-bird kind. Stove Top was the only kind of stuffing my mom ever fixed, so of course, thats what I bought I never knew anything else existed. Needless to say, stuffing was one of the items I had to buy at the grocery during my Thanksgiving morning mad dash and two kinds of stuffing grace the table.
(2) Create a schedule. Im the first to admit that those two-week dinner planning timelines dont work for me. But if you are defrosting a frozen turkey and cooking a large meal, then you should plan when the countdown commences. If you are in a stepfamily like us, you should also plan your custody schedule ahead of time, so there is no confusion about what time the kids are at which home, and try to schedule meals so the kids arent forced to have meals too close together.
(3) Lower your stress level by getting basic tasks out of the way early. Check off tasks on your list that can be done ahead of time to keep your frazzle thermometer low, and dont be afraid to parcel out job duties to others. Get busywork done ahead of time if you can. Or break down and spend a little extra for pre-cut vegetables and already-prepared side dishes. I take the day before Thanksgiving off from work to chop veggies, set tables and make desserts. Thanksgiving morning is much better spent basting a turkey and watching the Macys parade, instead of stressing out.
(4) Ask for and graciously accept help if you need it. My husband helps out with tidying so I dont have to whip myself into a cleaning cyclone that terrorizes dust bunnies. I had no clue how to make gravy that first year. My mom said to buy it when I phoned for advice. So I bought a half dozen jars of turkey gravy and figured that would suffice. My mother-in-law chuckled when I sheepishly told her about the jars. She offered to help me make gravy that first Thanksgiving and even taught me a few secrets that I plan to pass on to her grandchildren.
(5) Accept that not everything will go according to plan and use creative solutions. Instead of each family arriving with one side dish and one dessert, they each brought two or three dishes and a couple of desserts. The twenty-seven side dishes (yes, 27 side dishes!) overran my serving plans, so we improvised a buffet for the extras by balancing casseroles on cookie sheets over the kitchen sink.
Finally, do your best to enjoy yourself and remember what the holiday is all about. Be thankful for the many blessings we have in our lives even if your blessings arrive disguised as challenges. If you keep the right attitude, hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be a blessing, not a curse.
The first time I hosted Thanksgiving dinner for my husbands family, I was a new bride of only three months. I had never attended a family holiday event before my marriage because I lived out-of-state. Add to the mix my mother-in-law, three stepchildren, my husbands ex-wife, four sister-in-laws, and assorted children and husbands. I felt like I was blindfolded and sky-diving without a parachute.
I spent that first Thanksgiving morning frantically cleaning and peeling potatoes like a madwoman. Unforeseen shortages sent me scrambling twice - to the only open grocery store within twenty miles in my pajamas. Now things go a lot smoother, because Ive learned a few secrets to make hosting Thanksgiving dinner for twenty in-laws manageable, and even enjoyable.
(1) Learn the traditions combined families bring to the table, and honor both, not just one. If it means you have doubles of a few dishes so be it. My husbands family has a thing about stuffing they like the old-fashioned starts-out-like-croutons-in-the-bird kind. Stove Top was the only kind of stuffing my mom ever fixed, so of course, thats what I bought I never knew anything else existed. Needless to say, stuffing was one of the items I had to buy at the grocery during my Thanksgiving morning mad dash and two kinds of stuffing grace the table.
(2) Create a schedule. Im the first to admit that those two-week dinner planning timelines dont work for me. But if you are defrosting a frozen turkey and cooking a large meal, then you should plan when the countdown commences. If you are in a stepfamily like us, you should also plan your custody schedule ahead of time, so there is no confusion about what time the kids are at which home, and try to schedule meals so the kids arent forced to have meals too close together.
(3) Lower your stress level by getting basic tasks out of the way early. Check off tasks on your list that can be done ahead of time to keep your frazzle thermometer low, and dont be afraid to parcel out job duties to others. Get busywork done ahead of time if you can. Or break down and spend a little extra for pre-cut vegetables and already-prepared side dishes. I take the day before Thanksgiving off from work to chop veggies, set tables and make desserts. Thanksgiving morning is much better spent basting a turkey and watching the Macys parade, instead of stressing out.
(4) Ask for and graciously accept help if you need it. My husband helps out with tidying so I dont have to whip myself into a cleaning cyclone that terrorizes dust bunnies. I had no clue how to make gravy that first year. My mom said to buy it when I phoned for advice. So I bought a half dozen jars of turkey gravy and figured that would suffice. My mother-in-law chuckled when I sheepishly told her about the jars. She offered to help me make gravy that first Thanksgiving and even taught me a few secrets that I plan to pass on to her grandchildren.
(5) Accept that not everything will go according to plan and use creative solutions. Instead of each family arriving with one side dish and one dessert, they each brought two or three dishes and a couple of desserts. The twenty-seven side dishes (yes, 27 side dishes!) overran my serving plans, so we improvised a buffet for the extras by balancing casseroles on cookie sheets over the kitchen sink.
Finally, do your best to enjoy yourself and remember what the holiday is all about. Be thankful for the many blessings we have in our lives even if your blessings arrive disguised as challenges. If you keep the right attitude, hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be a blessing, not a curse.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Assembling a Baby Shower Gift Basket: Get Creative
A Baby Shower Gift Basket is just the sort of thing you'd like to give to would-be parents.
Baby showers give you a wonderful opportunity to express your warmth and encouragement for the expecting couple. You can make it a little bit easier for them by giving them what they need. You can also use your artistic sense to make the event memorable and successful. A baby shower gift basket lets you do just that, by combining beauty and utility.
Choose a large basket or hamper for this purpose, one that has a lot of hollow space. Fill it with items that would be useful, and at the same time can be arranged nicely and artistically.
An infant-sized bathtub isn't too expensive, but a nice utility item, and looks great too. A caddy or a bathroom bucket is also very useful for carrying the baby's clothes around, and they are even cheaper than the tub. Soaps, lotions, towels and diapers are other items that you can include if you want to stick with the bath theme for the baby shower gift basket.
Another useful theme is health and safety. You can pack the hamper with useful yet not-too-expensive medical items like commonly prescribed drugs for children fever reducers, tummy ache medicine and so on. A thermometer, infant nail clippers and a first aid kit are nice additions.
Some people prefer not to focus on a theme, and just put in whatever they think will be useful in their baby shower gift basket. That also works, as long as it is done with an eye to arrangement and shapeliness. Diapers are something that the expectant mother will need lots of quite soon so give her lots of those. Picture books, feeding bottles, bibs, rattles and other toys can be both useful and attractively arranged.
The secret of assembling a successful and attractive baby shower gift basket is to add personalizing touches. So try to include the baby's name (if it is already fixed) or the date of birth (if it is already known) in artistic lettering or calligraphic writing. Do that extra bit to show that you care. Usefulness is good, but usefulness plus love and personal care is even better. Put together a baby shower gift basket.
A Baby Shower Gift Basket is just the sort of thing you'd like to give to would-be parents.
Baby showers give you a wonderful opportunity to express your warmth and encouragement for the expecting couple. You can make it a little bit easier for them by giving them what they need. You can also use your artistic sense to make the event memorable and successful. A baby shower gift basket lets you do just that, by combining beauty and utility.
Choose a large basket or hamper for this purpose, one that has a lot of hollow space. Fill it with items that would be useful, and at the same time can be arranged nicely and artistically.
An infant-sized bathtub isn't too expensive, but a nice utility item, and looks great too. A caddy or a bathroom bucket is also very useful for carrying the baby's clothes around, and they are even cheaper than the tub. Soaps, lotions, towels and diapers are other items that you can include if you want to stick with the bath theme for the baby shower gift basket.
Another useful theme is health and safety. You can pack the hamper with useful yet not-too-expensive medical items like commonly prescribed drugs for children fever reducers, tummy ache medicine and so on. A thermometer, infant nail clippers and a first aid kit are nice additions.
Some people prefer not to focus on a theme, and just put in whatever they think will be useful in their baby shower gift basket. That also works, as long as it is done with an eye to arrangement and shapeliness. Diapers are something that the expectant mother will need lots of quite soon so give her lots of those. Picture books, feeding bottles, bibs, rattles and other toys can be both useful and attractively arranged.
The secret of assembling a successful and attractive baby shower gift basket is to add personalizing touches. So try to include the baby's name (if it is already fixed) or the date of birth (if it is already known) in artistic lettering or calligraphic writing. Do that extra bit to show that you care. Usefulness is good, but usefulness plus love and personal care is even better. Put together a baby shower gift basket.
Use Food Thermometer When Cooking Ground Beef
(NC)-According to Health Canada, colour is not a reliable indicator that ground beef has been cooked to the temperature necessary to destroy harmful bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7. The only way to be sure a hamburger patty is cooked properly and safely is to use an instant-read food thermometer.
Studies show that the colour of cooked ground beef patties can vary considerably. At 71C (160F) a safely cooked patty may look brown, pink or some variation of brown or pink. The bottom line is that if you cook your burger to 71C (160F) and check it with an instant-read food thermometer, you can enjoy a safe, juicy burger.
To quickly and easily check the temperature of the burgers, just remove the patties from the heat source when they are almost done and insert an instant-read food thermometer sideways into the centre of the thickest burger. If the temperature registers at least 71C (160F), the burger is done, if not, continue cooking until a minimum temperature of 71C (160F) is reached.
Health Canada also suggests that consumers do not eat hamburger patties that are pink or red in the middle, unless a food thermometer has been used to verify the proper temperature has been achieved. This is especially important for people most at risk for foodborne illness since E. coli O157:H7, a bacteria that can be present in ground beef, can lead to serious illness or even death. Those most at risk include young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people whose immune systems have been weakened by cancer, kidney disease and other chronic illnesses.
For more information on food safety, visit the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education Web site at www.canfightbac.org.
(NC)-According to Health Canada, colour is not a reliable indicator that ground beef has been cooked to the temperature necessary to destroy harmful bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7. The only way to be sure a hamburger patty is cooked properly and safely is to use an instant-read food thermometer.
Studies show that the colour of cooked ground beef patties can vary considerably. At 71C (160F) a safely cooked patty may look brown, pink or some variation of brown or pink. The bottom line is that if you cook your burger to 71C (160F) and check it with an instant-read food thermometer, you can enjoy a safe, juicy burger.
To quickly and easily check the temperature of the burgers, just remove the patties from the heat source when they are almost done and insert an instant-read food thermometer sideways into the centre of the thickest burger. If the temperature registers at least 71C (160F), the burger is done, if not, continue cooking until a minimum temperature of 71C (160F) is reached.
Health Canada also suggests that consumers do not eat hamburger patties that are pink or red in the middle, unless a food thermometer has been used to verify the proper temperature has been achieved. This is especially important for people most at risk for foodborne illness since E. coli O157:H7, a bacteria that can be present in ground beef, can lead to serious illness or even death. Those most at risk include young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people whose immune systems have been weakened by cancer, kidney disease and other chronic illnesses.
For more information on food safety, visit the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education Web site at www.canfightbac.org.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Family Health: The Dangers Of Food Poisoning & How To Protect Yourself & Family
Were what we eat.
If we eat good food and do so rightly, we enjoy good health and a long, happy life.
But if we eat bad food, well get sick and our life may be shortened.
Unfortunately, most people dont care enough about the safety of the food they eat or what they eat or how they eat it.
Here are some family health insights to help you to avoid food poisoning and live a longer, safer and happy life.
Every year, an estimated 7 million Americans suffer sicknesses caused by food poisoning.
Some cases are violent and even result in death.
The culprit is food that has dangerous high levels of bacteria due to improper cooking or handling.
Food safety is usually taken for granted by the buying public but everyone's attention was recently directed to food poisoning involving some meat that was undercooked.
It was determined that the problem never would have happened if the meat had been cooked properly.
E.Coli 0157.H7 is a potent virus, but it can be completely destroyed when the meat is fully cooked.
It is important for consumers to take an all-around safety approach to purchasing, storing and preparing both traditional and new meat and poultry products.
Ultimately, consumers and food handlers bear the responsibility for keeping food safe once it leaves the store.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 85 percent of food- borne illness cases could be avoided each year if consumers would handle food properly.
The most common food-borne illnesses are caused by a combination of bacteria, naturally present in the environment, and food handling mistakes.
Ironically, these are also the easiest types of food-borne illnesses to prevent.
Proper cooking or processing of raw meat and poultry kills bacteria that can cause food-borne illness.
When you're out, grocery shop last, take food straight home to the refrigerator.
And never leave food in a hot car!
Don't buy anything you won't use before the use-by date.
Don't buy food in poor condition. Make sure refrigerated food is cold to the touch.
Frozen food should be rock-solid.
Canned goods should be free of dents, cracks or bulging lids which can indicate a serious food poisoning threat.
The performance and maintenance of your refrigerator is of the utmost importance.
Check the temperature of your refrigerator with an appliance thermometer.
To keep bacteria in check, the refrigerator should run at 40 degrees F; the freezer unit at 0 degrees F.
Generally, keep your refrigerator as cold as possible without freezing your milk or lettuce.
When you prepare food, keep everything clean and thaw out any frozen food you plan to prepare in your refrigerator.
Take it out of the freezer in advance and place it in the refrigerated section of your refrigerator.
Always wash your hands in hot soapy water before preparing and handling any food as well as after you use the bathroom, change diapers, handle pets, etc.
Remember, too, that bacteria can live in your kitchen towels, sponges and dish cloths.
Wash them often and replace the dish cloths and sponges you use regularly every few weeks.
Be absolutely sure that you keep all raw meats, poultry and fish and their juices away from other food.
For instance, wash your hands, your cutting board and knife in hot soapy water after cutting up the chicken and before dicing salad ingredients.
It is best to use plastic cutting boards rather than wooden ones where bacteria can hide in grooves.
Don't take your food out of the freezer and leave it on the kitchen counter to thaw.
This is extremely dangerous since the bacteria can grow in the outer layers of the food before the inside thaws.
It is wise to do your marinating in the refrigerator too.
May these family health insights help you to live a longer, healthy and happy life.
Warmly,
I-key Benney, CEO
Were what we eat.
If we eat good food and do so rightly, we enjoy good health and a long, happy life.
But if we eat bad food, well get sick and our life may be shortened.
Unfortunately, most people dont care enough about the safety of the food they eat or what they eat or how they eat it.
Here are some family health insights to help you to avoid food poisoning and live a longer, safer and happy life.
Every year, an estimated 7 million Americans suffer sicknesses caused by food poisoning.
Some cases are violent and even result in death.
The culprit is food that has dangerous high levels of bacteria due to improper cooking or handling.
Food safety is usually taken for granted by the buying public but everyone's attention was recently directed to food poisoning involving some meat that was undercooked.
It was determined that the problem never would have happened if the meat had been cooked properly.
E.Coli 0157.H7 is a potent virus, but it can be completely destroyed when the meat is fully cooked.
It is important for consumers to take an all-around safety approach to purchasing, storing and preparing both traditional and new meat and poultry products.
Ultimately, consumers and food handlers bear the responsibility for keeping food safe once it leaves the store.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 85 percent of food- borne illness cases could be avoided each year if consumers would handle food properly.
The most common food-borne illnesses are caused by a combination of bacteria, naturally present in the environment, and food handling mistakes.
Ironically, these are also the easiest types of food-borne illnesses to prevent.
Proper cooking or processing of raw meat and poultry kills bacteria that can cause food-borne illness.
When you're out, grocery shop last, take food straight home to the refrigerator.
And never leave food in a hot car!
Don't buy anything you won't use before the use-by date.
Don't buy food in poor condition. Make sure refrigerated food is cold to the touch.
Frozen food should be rock-solid.
Canned goods should be free of dents, cracks or bulging lids which can indicate a serious food poisoning threat.
The performance and maintenance of your refrigerator is of the utmost importance.
Check the temperature of your refrigerator with an appliance thermometer.
To keep bacteria in check, the refrigerator should run at 40 degrees F; the freezer unit at 0 degrees F.
Generally, keep your refrigerator as cold as possible without freezing your milk or lettuce.
When you prepare food, keep everything clean and thaw out any frozen food you plan to prepare in your refrigerator.
Take it out of the freezer in advance and place it in the refrigerated section of your refrigerator.
Always wash your hands in hot soapy water before preparing and handling any food as well as after you use the bathroom, change diapers, handle pets, etc.
Remember, too, that bacteria can live in your kitchen towels, sponges and dish cloths.
Wash them often and replace the dish cloths and sponges you use regularly every few weeks.
Be absolutely sure that you keep all raw meats, poultry and fish and their juices away from other food.
For instance, wash your hands, your cutting board and knife in hot soapy water after cutting up the chicken and before dicing salad ingredients.
It is best to use plastic cutting boards rather than wooden ones where bacteria can hide in grooves.
Don't take your food out of the freezer and leave it on the kitchen counter to thaw.
This is extremely dangerous since the bacteria can grow in the outer layers of the food before the inside thaws.
It is wise to do your marinating in the refrigerator too.
May these family health insights help you to live a longer, healthy and happy life.
Warmly,
I-key Benney, CEO
Introduction To Gas Tube Detection
Gas detection tubes are a very reliable and proven method for measuring toxic substances in air or water. Some of the major advantages of the tube detection method are no laboratory turnaround time, no power requirement, and no user calibration are needed. The ease and simplicity of use saves training time (training video available), sampling time, and provides a more accurate analysis. Gas detection tubes measure in parts-per-billion, parts-per-million, and percent by volume, and are used in a variety of applications such as:
Hazardous waste sites
Clean-up of spills
Protecting workers from toxic vapors
Refineries
Leak detection for compliance
Pulp and paper plants
Hazardous materials response
Terrorist chemical attacks
How Does a Gas Detection Tube Pump System Work?
Each detector tube contains a reagent that is specifically sensitive to a particular vapor or gas. These reagents are on fine-grain silica gel, activated alumina or other absorbing media (depending on application requirements), inside a constant diameter, hermetically sealed glass tube. Most detector tubes are the "direct reading" type, with calibration markings right on the tube, so measurements can be made as simply and precisely as reading a thermometer. The actual operation is simple and accurate. Just snap off both "break away" ends of a tube in the convenient tube-tip breaker, insert the tube into the hand held pump, and pull out the pump handle. As the handle is pulled (just like a syringe), a precisely measured volume of ambient air is drawn inside the tube where it contacts the reagent. Instantly, the reagent changes color, reacting quantitatively to provide a length-of-stain indication. The farther the stain travels along the tube, the higher the concentration of gas. Note the scale mark on the tube where the stain stops and thats the measurement.
Gas detection tubes are a very reliable and proven method for measuring toxic substances in air or water. Some of the major advantages of the tube detection method are no laboratory turnaround time, no power requirement, and no user calibration are needed. The ease and simplicity of use saves training time (training video available), sampling time, and provides a more accurate analysis. Gas detection tubes measure in parts-per-billion, parts-per-million, and percent by volume, and are used in a variety of applications such as:
Hazardous waste sites
Clean-up of spills
Protecting workers from toxic vapors
Refineries
Leak detection for compliance
Pulp and paper plants
Hazardous materials response
Terrorist chemical attacks
How Does a Gas Detection Tube Pump System Work?
Each detector tube contains a reagent that is specifically sensitive to a particular vapor or gas. These reagents are on fine-grain silica gel, activated alumina or other absorbing media (depending on application requirements), inside a constant diameter, hermetically sealed glass tube. Most detector tubes are the "direct reading" type, with calibration markings right on the tube, so measurements can be made as simply and precisely as reading a thermometer. The actual operation is simple and accurate. Just snap off both "break away" ends of a tube in the convenient tube-tip breaker, insert the tube into the hand held pump, and pull out the pump handle. As the handle is pulled (just like a syringe), a precisely measured volume of ambient air is drawn inside the tube where it contacts the reagent. Instantly, the reagent changes color, reacting quantitatively to provide a length-of-stain indication. The farther the stain travels along the tube, the higher the concentration of gas. Note the scale mark on the tube where the stain stops and thats the measurement.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Low Fat Salmon Recipes
Finding delicious low fat salmon recipes has just become easier since you found our website. There are many wonderful low fat salmon recipes that will please your palate plus the palates of your dinner guests or family.
This first low fat salmon recipe uses yummy ingredients such as low or non-fat sour cream and low or non-fat mayonnaise to create a delectable creamy salmon recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
For this recipe you will need:
2 pounds of salmon filets,
cup of low or non-fat sour cream,
1/3 cup of low or non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of all purpose flour,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
8 ounces of low or non-fat cream cheese,
1 minced clove of garlic,
1/3 cup of your favorite white wine,
salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the salmon and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Use a non-stick spray such as Pam and spray your 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the salmon filets in the baking dish with the skin down in a single layer. In a medium size bowl, blend together the sour cream, mayonnaise, flour, lemon juice, cream cheese, garlic, and wine until smooth and well blended.
Now, with the back of a spoon spread the mixture over the salmon. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper and paprika to your liking. Do not cover and bake for around 20. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon is done and not overcooked. The internal temperature should be 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The salmon will still cook once you remove it from the heat source. Do not go by color alone.
You can also prepare low fat salmon recipes on your grill or barbeque and create some wonderful low fat sauces to enhance the flavor of your salmon.
A great sauce to serve along side grilled salmon is a low fat lemon dill sauce.
For this sauce you will need:
2 tablespoons of non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard,
teaspoon of dill weed,
salt and pepper to taste.
Blend together all ingredients with a wire whisk and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Finding delicious low fat salmon recipes has just become easier since you found our website. There are many wonderful low fat salmon recipes that will please your palate plus the palates of your dinner guests or family.
This first low fat salmon recipe uses yummy ingredients such as low or non-fat sour cream and low or non-fat mayonnaise to create a delectable creamy salmon recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
For this recipe you will need:
2 pounds of salmon filets,
cup of low or non-fat sour cream,
1/3 cup of low or non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of all purpose flour,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
8 ounces of low or non-fat cream cheese,
1 minced clove of garlic,
1/3 cup of your favorite white wine,
salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the salmon and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Use a non-stick spray such as Pam and spray your 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the salmon filets in the baking dish with the skin down in a single layer. In a medium size bowl, blend together the sour cream, mayonnaise, flour, lemon juice, cream cheese, garlic, and wine until smooth and well blended.
Now, with the back of a spoon spread the mixture over the salmon. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper and paprika to your liking. Do not cover and bake for around 20. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon is done and not overcooked. The internal temperature should be 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The salmon will still cook once you remove it from the heat source. Do not go by color alone.
You can also prepare low fat salmon recipes on your grill or barbeque and create some wonderful low fat sauces to enhance the flavor of your salmon.
A great sauce to serve along side grilled salmon is a low fat lemon dill sauce.
For this sauce you will need:
2 tablespoons of non-fat mayonnaise,
2 tablespoons of lemon juice,
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard,
teaspoon of dill weed,
salt and pepper to taste.
Blend together all ingredients with a wire whisk and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tools For Your Gourmet Kitchen
Chop, chop, chop! No kitchen is complete without a set of cutlery. When it comes to cutlery for your kitchen, you have lots of choices. But the most important thing to have is a Chefs knife. A high quality chefs knife will cost you at least $50, but plan on spending $75.
All that chopping is bound to cause some damage. Next you will want a cutting board. Like cutlery, there are many choices but if you want the board to last, youll want to keep a few things in mind. Cutting boards come in an over the sink style and a style that you sit on your counter. Youll also want to consider the size. Think about the size of your kitchen and the storage issue. Also consider the size of your sink because you are going to empty your scraps in there. There is quite a debate about whether a wood or plastic cutting board is best. Keep in mind wooden cutting boards will have knife marks in them eventually. On the other hand, plastic cutting boards will dull your knife quickly.
And whether you choose a wooden or plastic knife you will eventually need a knife sharpener.
When you become a gourmet pro, there are other tools you might consider purchasing.
-Paring Knifes
-Cleavers
-Bagel Cutter
-Carving Knife
-Fillet Knife
-Utility Knifes
-Thermometer
-Tongs
-Whisks
-Ladles
Now that youve done all that chopping, you need somewhere to put the ingredients.
There are many different kinds of cookware. Chefs pans are a great thing to buy in a set. Though it can get expensive, youll actually save more money by buying a set of chefs pans as opposed to buying it piece by piece. But perhaps you dont want a set of pans. The one must-have is a saut pan. What is a saut pan? It is a pan with a wide flat bottom, straight sides, long handle and a lid. Saut pans come in a variety of sizes. If you want versatility, choose a medium-sized pan.
Did you know that a soup pot is not just for soup? You can make pasta, meats and stocks as well. A soup pot, also known as a stock or cook pot is one of the most versatile things you can add to your kitchen. Like saut pans, soup pots come in a variety of sizes.
If you are really ready to get fancy then consider adding the following list of tools to your gourmet kitchen:
-Deep Fryer
-Waffle Iron
-Hand Blender
-Slow Cooker
-Steamer
-Food Processor
-Espresso Machine
When you are ready to take your gourmet kitchen to the outdoors, you have a few choices. You can purchase a natural gas grill, a charcoal grill or a propane grill.
You can expect to invest quite a bit of cash into tools for your gourmet kitchen. But realize that you dont have to buy everything at once. Also, all the tools arent necessary. Only purchase the gourmet tools that you are actually going to use
Chop, chop, chop! No kitchen is complete without a set of cutlery. When it comes to cutlery for your kitchen, you have lots of choices. But the most important thing to have is a Chefs knife. A high quality chefs knife will cost you at least $50, but plan on spending $75.
All that chopping is bound to cause some damage. Next you will want a cutting board. Like cutlery, there are many choices but if you want the board to last, youll want to keep a few things in mind. Cutting boards come in an over the sink style and a style that you sit on your counter. Youll also want to consider the size. Think about the size of your kitchen and the storage issue. Also consider the size of your sink because you are going to empty your scraps in there. There is quite a debate about whether a wood or plastic cutting board is best. Keep in mind wooden cutting boards will have knife marks in them eventually. On the other hand, plastic cutting boards will dull your knife quickly.
And whether you choose a wooden or plastic knife you will eventually need a knife sharpener.
When you become a gourmet pro, there are other tools you might consider purchasing.
-Paring Knifes
-Cleavers
-Bagel Cutter
-Carving Knife
-Fillet Knife
-Utility Knifes
-Thermometer
-Tongs
-Whisks
-Ladles
Now that youve done all that chopping, you need somewhere to put the ingredients.
There are many different kinds of cookware. Chefs pans are a great thing to buy in a set. Though it can get expensive, youll actually save more money by buying a set of chefs pans as opposed to buying it piece by piece. But perhaps you dont want a set of pans. The one must-have is a saut pan. What is a saut pan? It is a pan with a wide flat bottom, straight sides, long handle and a lid. Saut pans come in a variety of sizes. If you want versatility, choose a medium-sized pan.
Did you know that a soup pot is not just for soup? You can make pasta, meats and stocks as well. A soup pot, also known as a stock or cook pot is one of the most versatile things you can add to your kitchen. Like saut pans, soup pots come in a variety of sizes.
If you are really ready to get fancy then consider adding the following list of tools to your gourmet kitchen:
-Deep Fryer
-Waffle Iron
-Hand Blender
-Slow Cooker
-Steamer
-Food Processor
-Espresso Machine
When you are ready to take your gourmet kitchen to the outdoors, you have a few choices. You can purchase a natural gas grill, a charcoal grill or a propane grill.
You can expect to invest quite a bit of cash into tools for your gourmet kitchen. But realize that you dont have to buy everything at once. Also, all the tools arent necessary. Only purchase the gourmet tools that you are actually going to use
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