Exercising Safely in Warmer Weather
You should acclimate your body to increases in temperature gradually. Cut back on your regular routine and then gradually increase the amount of exercise you do over the next few weeks. It is not safe to exercise during extreme heat and/or humidity. Try to avoid the hottest part of the day, generally from 10 a.m. […]
Backyard Safety Tips
The sounds of summer always include children playing outdoors. To ensure that your children will be safe as they enjoy their summer vacation, use this checklist to inspect your backyard swing set and play equipment. Are the bolts tight? Be sure to tighten all bolts before your children use the equipment. Do the ends of […]
What Causes “New Carpet Smell” and Is It Harmful?
There’s nothing like the smell of new carpet. But have you ever wondered what causes that unique odor? Is it formaldehyde or some other toxic chemical? Is there cause for concern? Smell is the most primitive of the five senses. The fragrances of food enhance our sense of taste. Pleasant scents create a feeling of […]
Whole Grain Banana Muffins
Ingredients: 3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour 1/2 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup oat bran 1/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup raisins 1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt 1/4 cup low fat sour cream 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/4 cup maple syrup 2 teaspoons egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla […]
Is Salt Making Us Overweight?
Too much salt can be bad for us. It causes increased blood pressure, an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart disease. And now, researchers have found that high salt intake might lead to the over consumption of fatty foods, increasing the risk of obesity. Two studies discussing this issue were published by Australian […]
Detect-a-Leak Week
Detect-a-Leak Week is held annually every May. This is the perfect time to give your home a once over, checking for leaks that may be costing you money. Even a small leak can add up to hundreds of dollars a year, and could damage surrounding fixtures, cabinets, or floors. One of the biggest culprits is […]
Have a Safe Memorial Day
Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer recreation season. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be a time for accidents. Make sure you and your family are safe this Memorial Day weekend by remembering these safety tips. Play Safely If you are going to be spending time near or on the water, don’t forget to be […]
What Causes Those Mysterious Dark Lines?
You may have noticed it in your own home, or the home of a neighbor or friend– dark, dirty-looking lines in the carpet around the baseboards, under doors and on stairs. What is it? Can it be removed? Will it come back? The dark greyish or black discolorations that occur in carpet around the perimeter […]
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 1 tablespoon poppy seeds 1/2 cup white sugar 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon minced onion 10 ounces fresh spinach – rinsed, dried and torn into bite-size pieces 1 quart strawberries – cleaned,hulled and sliced 1/4 cup almonds, […]
Those Doggone Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies. If your dog often gets fits of coughing or sneezing, skin problems, or seems generally uncomfortable, he may be suffering from an allergic reaction. Symptoms of allergies in dogs include itchy, red or scabbed skin, increased scratching, runny eyes, sneezing, coughing, snoring, and constant licking. Just like humans, […]