Eat Simply....

A lot of people are reevaluating what they put in their bodies each day, and for good reason. Your doctor may have told you it’s time to make some changes, or maybe you saw a documentary on Netflix. Whatever your reasons I’m here to help you out. I’m not a nutritionist or a doctor, but you’re getting my advice anyway. If you don’t like it, use this page of the paper to line the kitty box. I won’t mind.

First off, whoever tells you there is a one-size fits all diet is probably selling something, and usually it’s their book or program. While all biologically similar, we do not process most of what we eat exactly the same. Some people do well on a particular diet, while others’ bodies shut down. Look at your lifestyle, talk to a doctor and connect with a nutritionist. What are your medical issues? What trips you up when you try to eat healthy?  So while the various “diet” camps argue among themselves about who is the best, they do agree on a few things. Let’s look at those. 

More H20

Maybe I’m stating the obvious here, but water is good for you. We all know that. But despite the fact that most Americans have access to clean water, we don’t drink enough of it. Maybe you find it hard to drink water because there are other, more appealing drink choices available. But don’t give up on drinking water. There are ways to drink more even without buying packets of flavorings or sugary drink mixes. Some people add cut up cucumbers or melon to their water. Others freeze berries, citrus and mint leaves in ice cubes. Ditch the sugar and caffeine and drink more water.

Eat your veggies

Again, another obvious one here. But when it comes to veggies, many people simply give the “yuck” face they learned as a child and pretend they don’t exist (unless they come wrapped in bacon and cheese). If you’re finding it hard to eat veggies I encourage you to start from square one. Either grow your own or buy them local. There’s something about doing those things that makes us more appreciative of our bounty. Some kids will not try broccoli to save their life, but have them help plant a garden and soon they are eating whatever grows.  That connection to what we eat has been lost, and it’s important to find it again.

Processed Foods

Processed foods. We buy them because of their ability to sit there in storage forever and a day and because they promise us to only take a few minutes. But what we get in exchange does not work in our favor. Processed foods are like empty promises; they market themselves as Godsends, but instead we get a steady diet of corn, soy, corn syrup, salt, sugar and preservatives that makes us feel unsatisfied over and over; so we eat more. How do you identify processed foods? Well, usually they come in a box and are known as “convenience foods.” If you look at the ingredient list you’ll see some familiar faces, but mostly you’ll get a long list of unidentifiable ingredients. Bottom line, these “fast” and cheap foods are not your friends. Learn how to cook real food again. It’s not as hard as you think and your body will thank you. 

Solar Sense....

As the temperature outside increases many of our thoughts turn to solar. But if you're like me you still have some questions and reservations. So I put a call into local contractor, Jim Tyler of JT Construction and Solar. 

Jim said people are turning to solar for a variety of reasons. 

"People are tired of rate increases, unpredictable bills and paying for something [power] that they don't technically own," said Jim. "People are also interested in being more 'green'."

He explained that solar offers a fixed payment and often it's less than what people think.

"Not everyone needs a huge system. The main thing I do is calculate what the household uses in an entire year and I build the system to get them as close to 0 as possible," said Jim.

He went on to explain that it's similar to buying a car depending on the length of a loan and how much you pay upfront. Cost depends on how big a system you need. But the savings add up instead of depreciate like with a vehicle. 

"The system has paid for itself usually within 6 to 7 years, but you'll still have it for a long time," he said.

Jim said the average system lasts about 25 years and comes with a warranty. Cleaning is also easier than people think. Jim said if people do not want to do it themselves companies like C-Thru Window Cleaning in Exeter will do it for you. 

Jim recommended for easy maintenance to install the system on the ground if you have the room.

So how long does it take to get solar in place? Jim said about five to six weeks including paperwork, ordering and installation. But the big savings may not come till later on.

"Throughout the year homeowners rack up credits and you can actually see the meter running backwards," said Jim. "You'll see the credits applied once you really start using that AC. But the savings are substantial."

And if you wanted more back from Uncle Sam, you'll also qualify for a great tax break thanks to your new solar system. Nice huh?!

Jim said that for both businesses and residential, if owners can pay the utility company, they can afford solar. But with solar you get something back. 

For more information visit www.jimtylerconstruction.com or all 280-4540.

Media Fast....

It seems there’s been a lot of bickering and nastiness on the news, internet, etc. Its information overload meets bad attitude. Someone’s family member dies and a stranger makes a snarky, rude comment. Someone does something for charity, but an article only focuses on the “ugly” dress they wore. It’s the moment when “open minded” people act very close minded, and the “loving” act so unloving. All these opinions, all this information, it’s enough to discourage Pollyanna. Sometimes you have to say enough is enough and close the door for a bit. 

So if you find yourself losing sleep every night worrying that this country is going downhill, or feeling down because everyone’s life seems perfect on Facebook, or snapping at family members because you argued with strangers on an online forum for hours, maybe it’s time to take a step back. Think about a media fast. 

What’s a media fast? It’s a period of time you set where you step away from TV, internet and social media, radio, etc. and enjoy life. No wireless connection or camera phone needed. You simply set the time period.

Some people do short term media fasts. Others select one day of the week or a few hours of the day where they simply don’t gorge themselves on all the media has to offer. Write of list of activities that you or your family enjoys like reading a good book, hiking, gardening, volunteering, crafts, baking, etc. Or you can make it faith based and use the time for prayer and worship  Look at activities that don’t require electronics or increase stress. 

You might think you’ll miss something or you’ll feel incredibly lost. You might feel restless for a little bit, but at the end of the time you’ll gain a few things. One, you’ll learn what you’re addicted to and how strong of grip it has on your life. Two, you’ll probably feel more relaxed and begin to remember what it was like when your phone wasn't always in your hand. And three, you’ll learn to filter media. Just because all this information and these opinions find their way into your home or mind, doesn't mean they deserve to be there. 

If media is affecting your relationships or your health, something needs to happen. A media fast can give you the perspective you’re looking for.

Spring Fever....

Potato plant

It always happens around this time of year, the onslaught of spring fever. But this type of spring fever takes place in the home and in the yard. It's the time when all those warm weather dreams and projects become a possibility and there are so many on your list you don't know where to start. Well, first make a plan before you spend that well-earned paycheck at the hardware store or nursery. Be honest with yourself and don't feel guilty if you don't get everything done when you'd like. Get others involved and stick to a budget.

Let's look at a few easy projects you can do now.

Now is a great time to setup that compost bin. I saw some large compost bins on clearance at Lowes for about $35 or you can do what we did for less. We simply got a black, plastic garbage can with a lid and drilled holes all around from top to bottom (see picture below). We then secured the lid with bungee cords. The bungee cords enable you to roll the bin, which helps the composting process along. You can also build a bin using pallets, bricks or reclaimed wood.

Trash can composter; costs around $20 for can and bungee cords

There is still plenty of time to create your garden beds. Raised beds are a great option for those with limited mobility or those who love a distinct uniform appearance to their garden. I've seen various plans for raised beds from a no-till bed to pre-made kits. Choose what works for your budget and lifestyle. Give yourself plenty of time to complete your beds before you buy plants or plan to plant your seedlings. Sometimes you have to dig out or kill what's underneath (I'm looking at you crabgrass). Start small if this is your first time. You can always add more later via pots or another bed.

If you're trying to reduce your energy bills this season, consider installing a clothes line. Even if you don't use it for all your clothes, it's very handy when you need to dry lots of towels, bedding or cloth diapers. Kits are available at some hardware stores or you can purchase an umbrella dryer which is relatively easy to install. It usually just takes securing the poles in some rock or concrete in the ground. You can also make something a little less permanent by securing the pole(s) in a large bucket of concrete with wheels on the bottom. 

If you're dreading summertime because that means loads of watering, maybe its time to rethink your landscape. Xeriscaping (xerogardening) is your answer. It is essentially using drought tolerant and/or certain native plants to create a yard that needs less resources. Talk to a Tulare CountyMaster Gardener or a member of the Alta Peak Chapter of the California NativePlant Society. There are also local landscapers who specialize in native plantings. They can help you create a plan to slowly transform your landscape into a low maintenance, yet amazingly beautiful paradise that will be the envy of all your neighbors.


So there you have it, a few projects to get you going before the hot weather is here.

Tea Time.....

There's something about tea that is so comforting. Maybe it's that I associate it with things like Downton Abbey, a kitty snuggled on my lap, a good book or glorious rainy days. But mostly I associate it with heart to heart talks with my mom, which I will always treasure (thanks mom!). Maybe you have a thing for tea too? Well, whether you like black, green, Earl Grey, herbal or the like, we're talking tea this week. 

Tea Time

In England, afternoon tea (sometimes called low tea) is generally taken between 3 and 5 p.m. (usually at 4 p.m.) and serves as a snack time before dinner or supper. High tea is basically a full meal with tea and takes place sometime after 5 p.m. Many people associate tea time with snootiness, fine china and flowery table linens. While you can certainly enjoy your tea this way (better to dump the snootiness though), tea time is really about good conversation and good company. If you’re looking for tea time etiquette, I’m not really the one to ask, that’s Tiffany Nielsen’s department. There are good practices to follow, especially if you’re planning on holding or attending a formal tea. 

A Good Brew
Brewing times for tea range and you’ll get different answers if you look online. Here are the times I finally settled on. Black tea should reach a temperature of about 210 degrees and brew for 2-3 minutes. Green should reach between 167-176 degrees and only brew for one or two minutes. Herbal tea needs a bit more; it should reach 210 degrees and then brew for about 3-6 minutes. 

Biscuits or crumpets?
If you went to England or most other parts of the world and asked for a biscuit you'd get something that resembles a cookie more than a fluffy mound of dough that pairs well with loads of white gravy (yum). They are mildly sweet and kind of taste like animal crackers. I found some at Save Mart near the cookies. 

What is a crumpet? King Arthur Flour had the perfect description; they are "midway between a pancake and an English muffin." I'd like to tell you I've made them from scratch, but I haven't, mostly because Trader Joes makes wonderful British style crumpets. If you'd like to try your hand at making crumpets there is a link to a recipe HERE.

Tea Table
Tea is often also associated with dainty little snacks, scones or tea sandwiches. Scones are relatively easy to make and you can choose from plain, chocolate chip, lemon, blueberry and more. Mixes are also available at most grocery stores.  

There are a variety of tea sandwiches, but mostly you see the cucumber version. If you're looking for something different maybe try a smoked salmon spread or herbed cream cheese version. Use a biscuit cutter to create perfect little round, crust less sandwiches.

Marmalades and something called clotted cream can also be found on the tea table. Cost Plus World Market has an amazing assortment of English tea-related goodies like clotted cream. 

We’ll talk more tea in a couple weeks. 

Left: Biscuit            Right: Crumpet

VDay Treats.....

It's Valentine's Day and you know what that means? It's the day to gorge yourself on chocolatey sweets. Oh... I mean show those closest to you how much you love them. And what better way than to give them some chocolatey sweets. But instead of the waxy, cheap boxed candy where you have to fish out the gross ones, why not make your own? It's easier than you think.

I got this recipe from the wonderful Carol Brown at work. They are super easy to make and amazingly good. Cut them into bars, place on some red cupcake wrappers and put them in a cute box. Perfect sweets for your sweetie.

Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

 2 cups creamy peanut butter

3/4 cup unsalted softened butter 

2 cups powdered sugar

4 cups crushed pretzel twists (divided)

2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips.

Line a 13x9 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhanging on the sides. 

Beat 1 1/4 cup peanut butter and regular butter until creamy. Gradually beat in powdered sugar. Stir in 3 cups of crushed pretzel twists. Press mixture evenly into prepared baking pan and smooth top with spatula.

Melt 1 1/2 cup chocolate morsels and 3/4 cup peanut butter in the microwave for one minute. Stir in rest of chocolate chips and microwave for short increments until melted. Spread mixture over peanut butter, pretzel layer in baking pan. Sprinkle rest of pretzels on top. Refrigerate for three hours or until firm. Cut into small bars.

Okay, so here is my really lazy version. Microwave a jar of peanut butter (remove metal lid) for 45 seconds. Mix with a 3/4 cup powdered sugar. I mixed it into the jar (I told you it was the lazy version). I spread the mixture into a small glass baking pan. I should have lined it with parchment or sprayed it with cooking spray. Lesson learned. Anyway. I pressed some pretzels on top. Then poured the milk chocolate chips on top of that. I put the glass pan in the microwave and microwaved in one minute increments. Once the chocolate was melted I spread it evenly and then topped it with more pretzels. I would tell you I let it set, but I didn't. I grabbed a spoon and started eating it. And it was amazing. 

Just time it right, because when your husband comes home, sees chocolate all around your mouth and asks what you're doing. "I'm making you Valentine's Day treats" looks very suspicious. Not that I'm talking from experience. Okay maybe I am. Whatever.

Happy Valentine's Day!