Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Is Your Washing Machine Making You Sick?

GE WBSR3000GWS 27in 3.2 cu. Ft. Top-Load Washer - White
I read today that, because mold and bacteria flourish where a wet area is found, your washing machine can be the source of your allergy eyes, runny nose, or even asthma attack. Because your washing machine stays wet for awhile while it's not in use, bacteria and mold might be having a party in there.  To prevent these things from growing inside your machine, and in turn, on your clothes, make sure to keep the lid open after use...just long enough for the inside to dry.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Your Dishwasher : Not Just for Washing Dishes anymore!

Haier HDC1804TW 4-Place-Setting Tabletop DishwasherToday I read a great tip about alternate uses for your dishwasher.  It seems that it's a great way to make short work of cleaning your child's plastic toys (ones without batteries, of course).  Just put them in the trays, load up on detergent, and wash! 


(Note: It might be best not to use the "heat dry" cycle.  You wouldn't want any of the plastic to warp!)

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Be Generous. You Might Live Longer.

The Generosity Factor: Discover the Joy of Giving Your Time, Talent, and TreasureToday I read that a study conducted at the University of Michigan concluded that people who are generous in both tangible and emotional ways , add years to their lives.


According to the Mayo Clinic, University of Texas, and various other authorities on the subject, here are a few more ways to add years to your life:
1.  Be optimistic.
2.  Eat flavonoid rich fruits.
3.  Communicate with your friends.
4.  Run
5.  Sleep-- no less than 6 hours, no more than 9  (try 7 to 8)
6.  Worship regularly

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Creamsicle Smoothie

Hamilton Beach 51101 Single-Serve BlenderHere's what I read today.  It looks so good that it MUST be shared!



Ingredients


             
1 navel orange, peeled
1/4 cup fat-free half-and-half or fat-free yogurt
2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ice cubes


In a blender, combine the orange, half-and-half or yogurt, orange juice concentrate, vanilla, and ice cubes. Process until smooth.

Monday, August 2, 2010

Don't Toss That! How To Save On Food.

Ziploc Freezer Bag, Pint, 20-Count (Pack of 12)Today I read a clever little tip about food that is about to hit its expiration date, or is showing signs that it has just about had it.  Freeze it before you lose it!  For example, do you have some onions, tomatoes, garlic, or other fresh herbs or veggies in that produce drawer that you're just not going to get to before it goes bad?  Put it in a freezer bag and freeze it until you're ready to use it.  Bottom line: Saving food saves you money!