tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46265459751555817632024-03-12T18:46:19.469-07:00True Adventures in Money HackingAt TAiMH you'll find organized and easy-to-understand information on things like bank accounts; credit cards; student loans, debt management techniques; investing in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and annuities; 401(k)s and IRAs; and making and sticking to a budget. Plus, learn creative ways to be frugal with DIY projects, thrifty recipes, and inventive ways to upcycle for everyday savings.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.comBlogger153125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-88945289261526946062010-10-26T13:08:00.000-07:002010-10-26T21:11:59.057-07:00Starting your own Herb Garden Part 5: Garlic, ginger, and other easy-to-grow herbs<span style="font-size:85%;">Missed the rest of the series? Read them here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/09/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-1.html">Starting your own Herb Garden: Part 1: The Benefits of Fresh Herbs</a>, here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-2.html">Starting your own Herb Garden Part 2: Planning and Layout</a>, here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-3.html">Starting your own Herb Garden Part 3: Seed Starting and Growing from Cuttings</a>, and here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-4.html">Starting your own Herb Garden Part 4: The Indoor/Potted Herb Garden.</a></span><br /><br />Did you know that some of the most widely used and most delicious herbs are the easiest to grow? In this last of installment of the Starting Your Own Herb Garden series, we'll show you how to grow your own garlic, ginger, and cilantro.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Ginger</span><br />Ginger has loads of health benefits (just do a Google search and you'll come up with tons), so much so that many people take daily ginger in capsule form. I prefer it fresh or pickled, sushi style. Fresh grated ginger is fantastically useful for cooking, especially in Asian dishes, and it makes a lovely tea. It's also ridiculously easy to grow your own.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP98ttlz6MalonHejKOe5bfboPJL2so4RYT96YNBjVl68L7gESRa1I2uWx_HA2cf-juYbBwZDEXA60iFJC7tWyQWO0xzYjDhOHkMDwt46cKjxaaQ2fdM63CZwzkNcnkdHQEHsa32K00oM/s1600/ornamental+ginger.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP98ttlz6MalonHejKOe5bfboPJL2so4RYT96YNBjVl68L7gESRa1I2uWx_HA2cf-juYbBwZDEXA60iFJC7tWyQWO0xzYjDhOHkMDwt46cKjxaaQ2fdM63CZwzkNcnkdHQEHsa32K00oM/s320/ornamental+ginger.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532451377550753266" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Note: This is ornamental ginger (comes it pink or red flowers). It's pretty but not edible. The edible kind is not pretty, doesn't flower at all, and is much smaller.</span><br /></div><br /><br />To grow your own, visit your local farmers' market after the last frost. I got mine from the local grocery and it grew fine, but I was lucky--much of the commercially grown ginger is treated so that it won't reproduce. Select a rhizome (this is what most people refer to as the ginger "root," but that's actually incorrect) at least 3 inches long and with at least two well-developed growth buds--little protrusions at the tip of a "finger" of the rhizome, kind of like eyes on a potato. The more growth buds your rhizome has, the better. If the tips of the "fingers" are greenish, even better.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Ingwer_2_fcm.jpg/800px-Ingwer_2_fcm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 349px; height: 249px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Ingwer_2_fcm.jpg/800px-Ingwer_2_fcm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">A ginger rhizome with 7 fingers and many growth buds. This could produce up to 10 ginger plants.</span><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Planting Ginger</span><br />If you're unsure whether your ginger rhizome has been treated with an growth retardant, soak it in a glass of water overnight before you plant it. What's cool about ginger is that if your rhizome has more than one "finger," you can cut them apart and plant each one separately to produce several ginger plants. The only rule is that each section you plant should be at least 2 inches long and have at least one growth bud.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Growing Ginger</span><br />You can grow your ginger in a pot with potting soil, like mine, or if you live in an area that never frosts, you can plant it directly in the ground, as long as the soil is well-drained and not too clayey. Ginger takes 8 to 10 months to mature and hates the cold, which is why you should opt for potting unless you live in an almost year-round warm climate. Plant your rhizome sections 6 to 8 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep, growth buds facing up. Water regularly, but don't soak them. Ginger hates having wet feet. After a few weeks (sometimes several), you'll see the first growth. It'll look like a thin green spike.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlMztAnDPVzjea8cOHFoi4rKM35uezWZ4fQnLGVpF2PAZ1BTgWZ703eNfs7Rcf0AAprwal9lJoqHjWZ8aeqYY8ffiqmU_v8irRdYdLQSj7Kdi73DXLqN7iO_vb1ODTXyBVo-iDSJX_H4/s1600/ginger1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlMztAnDPVzjea8cOHFoi4rKM35uezWZ4fQnLGVpF2PAZ1BTgWZ703eNfs7Rcf0AAprwal9lJoqHjWZ8aeqYY8ffiqmU_v8irRdYdLQSj7Kdi73DXLqN7iO_vb1ODTXyBVo-iDSJX_H4/s320/ginger1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532451350843094002" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Ginger plant spike with first leaf </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrCHaQ1fIoEEa4O0jDUGi5xBmLVkKpvuQFsBQ0RdEyLs8MyCn_PEiCvZmIFfuqQXqRCCv6nsM9xiu0i_74z19E0VN1KQ3A8HMRALtbb0iB0y00RXQmEswxv5COSpJKka89LezSDkgjIE/s1600/ginger3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrCHaQ1fIoEEa4O0jDUGi5xBmLVkKpvuQFsBQ0RdEyLs8MyCn_PEiCvZmIFfuqQXqRCCv6nsM9xiu0i_74z19E0VN1KQ3A8HMRALtbb0iB0y00RXQmEswxv5COSpJKka89LezSDkgjIE/s320/ginger3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532451366258022018" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">6 months later</span></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Harvesting Ginger</span><br />Ginger is ready to harvest when the leaves turn yellow and begin to wilt, 8 to 10 months after planting. I recommend harvesting in the morning so the rhizomes have ample time to dry in the sun. To harvest, loosen the soil with a garden fork and lift the whole thing gently out of the ground. Brush as much of the dirt off the remaining rhizomes as you can and lay them in the sun for the rest of the day. At this point you can cut off a few sections of the rhizome with good growth nubs to replant for next year. Break up the rest and cut off any remaining stems.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storing Ginger</span><br />There are three options I know of for quality long-term storage of ginger:<br />1. Keep unpeeled in a ziplock bag in your refrigerator's crisper (up to 2 months).<br />2. Scrape off the skin with the edge of a spoon, cut into 1-inch chunks, and store covered in vodka or rice wine (up to 1 year). The ginger won't lose its flavor, and you can use the leftover liquid in stir-fry dishes, salad dressings, or sauces. I've yet to make a ginger vodka martini, but I'd love to try it.<br />3. Pickle it by peeling as above, cutting into 1-inch chunks, and storing covered in rice vinegar for 3 weeks. Remove from liquid. Use the remaining liquid as above, and store the pickled ginger in the refrigerator up to 1 year.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Cilantro</span><br />Ordinary cilantro is also easy to grow and not too picky about its soil, as long as it's fairly loose and not too wet. It prefers shade or filtered sun, will grow in pots or right in the ground, and grows quickly. Five cilantro seeds will yield you quite a bit of cilantro in a month or two. Plant the seeds 4 to 6 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. If planting outdoors, wait until it's relatively warm out to plant your seeds. They don't like the cold.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgO2VrfrxiqM1SMa0y93M5u9cn8VDBzjb9WTMs8ydq6pa_dcoKOiD8x5YUeKrlICNwtQY2HkBf8tmdOOAriqTWdSlbVAyIgasUP9gYvn3rUgLDg1c1lUbnRyl8JKh5pddz9XAdd_L5ao/s1600/cilantro-planted-in-garden.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgO2VrfrxiqM1SMa0y93M5u9cn8VDBzjb9WTMs8ydq6pa_dcoKOiD8x5YUeKrlICNwtQY2HkBf8tmdOOAriqTWdSlbVAyIgasUP9gYvn3rUgLDg1c1lUbnRyl8JKh5pddz9XAdd_L5ao/s320/cilantro-planted-in-garden.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532450024097645410" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Cilantro, one week after planting seeds. If you want instant herb gratification, this is your plant.</span></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Garlic</span><br />Garlic is another quick sprouter, though it takes longer to mature than cilantro.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Planting Garlic</span><br />Unless you're in a year-round warm climate, the best time to plant garlic is in mid-autumn. Buy a head from your local grocery or farmers' market and keep it in the fridge until you start to see little roots sticking out the bottom. Then separate the cloves and plant them in a sunny spot, root side down, 6 inches apart, and 2 inches deep. No need to peel off the skin. The soil should be loose and well-drained.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Growing Garlic</span><br />After a few days you'll see the shoot coming up. These will die down once it gets cold. When that happens, mulch well over the whole bed. Your job is done until spring. In the spring, remove the mulch. More shoots will appear and these will continue growing into leaves that look like onion leaves but flimsier. About a month before the garlic is ready to be harvested, they'll send up something called a scape. The scape looks like a thick, hard green onion, and it's edible. It tastes just like garlic but milder and you can cut it off to eat once it's about 4 inches long. If you let them keep growing, they'll get very tall and start curling like something out of a Tim Burton movie. Once they start to curl, they'll get tough and begin losing their flavor.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEs6B1BdXwKLF376EFUeTnvQQGsvy8UahBNcgWG6jBSyPn7_eJcnrlyBudu2du5pJGItu_CHNr2wnxOtswRr6LGmyODV94W1-7FVZpafGXCUeqOtvkTN-GO33CrkFSsusXHigyaQb4zF0/s1600/garlic1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEs6B1BdXwKLF376EFUeTnvQQGsvy8UahBNcgWG6jBSyPn7_eJcnrlyBudu2du5pJGItu_CHNr2wnxOtswRr6LGmyODV94W1-7FVZpafGXCUeqOtvkTN-GO33CrkFSsusXHigyaQb4zF0/s320/garlic1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532450037605024962" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Garlic, two days after planting</span></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6YC8t8xGqAQfznTSv17SIFpKZCoWuCTTaIsucPzR4oK7lkxZuCOd8XwjQ7tOuY-69hmwKstQeZdDM2DinXDuAZNnvhvoTYff2w-KcJXdS2E9syxKKwHbEbN0cnYhoAib2mr1BCeDcnmg/s1600/garlic3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6YC8t8xGqAQfznTSv17SIFpKZCoWuCTTaIsucPzR4oK7lkxZuCOd8XwjQ7tOuY-69hmwKstQeZdDM2DinXDuAZNnvhvoTYff2w-KcJXdS2E9syxKKwHbEbN0cnYhoAib2mr1BCeDcnmg/s320/garlic3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532450065116189650" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Garlic, 1 week after planting<br /></span></div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Harvesting Garlic</span><br />You'll know when your garlic is ready to harvest because its leaves will start to turn brown and wilt. As with the ginger, loosen the soil and carefully pull the whole thing up. Brush off the dirt and hang the whole thing in a cool, dry place for 2 to 3 weeks. They should be dry and not smell very strongly at this point. Cut off the foliage and peel off the outer layers of skin until it looks like something you'd see at the grocery store.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b2/Garlic_Press_and_Garlic.jpg/220px-Garlic_Press_and_Garlic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 151px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b2/Garlic_Press_and_Garlic.jpg/220px-Garlic_Press_and_Garlic.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storing Garlic</span><br />Do not seal your garlic bulbs in bags or airtight containers; this promotes molding and rotting. Garlic will keep in the fridge for 2 to 4 weeks, but the moisture level there is too high for it to keep long term. Garlic keeps longest in a cool, dry place, like in a terracotta jar or in the basement.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Growth update!</span><br />The habaneros still haven't germinated. I planted five seeds, 3 three weeks ago and 2 two weeks ago. Nada. I've heard they take as long as 2 months to germinate, so I'm not giving up yet. I'm keeping them in direct sun as much as possible to maximize warmth. Somebody I know said his didn't germinate until he started setting them on top of the clothes dryer every time he ran it.<br /><br />The watermelon seedlings are growing, but not rapidly. We now have nine of them. No sign of the forget-me-nots germinating yet, but it's only been one week.<br /><br />The basil and mint that I transplanted last week from the cuttings are flourishing, so I'm excited about that. I'm already dreaming of caprese salads.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3UJm1NEKxJVpuRrYxRlmhhdPy7EhtWr9Ymy_fYp-GzmNSUlERSYLnMbL2GKXgt3yIAqzg9tvBPMR0LndhXmmuVQaw-9YnpYR_fit5h8nZXDa134DVBGpBOUMvAQV0cBqdQB8FDqO00AE/s1600/IMGP0002.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3UJm1NEKxJVpuRrYxRlmhhdPy7EhtWr9Ymy_fYp-GzmNSUlERSYLnMbL2GKXgt3yIAqzg9tvBPMR0LndhXmmuVQaw-9YnpYR_fit5h8nZXDa134DVBGpBOUMvAQV0cBqdQB8FDqO00AE/s320/IMGP0002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532500266409082946" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Mint cutting transplant<br /></span></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0O-Wedw97IfH8uBx1id_D25mGSsakXt9B8rM84tdR_fL6YrXQv3SNIWnUQ58R0qUI8re-UH1_Y2Dw3jH8WQ_mHDo638W8xjwPorAa2ICH1ZrcfcEtWFEK8MpqaKU5rNDyIYMnYOURf-E/s1600/IMGP0004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0O-Wedw97IfH8uBx1id_D25mGSsakXt9B8rM84tdR_fL6YrXQv3SNIWnUQ58R0qUI8re-UH1_Y2Dw3jH8WQ_mHDo638W8xjwPorAa2ICH1ZrcfcEtWFEK8MpqaKU5rNDyIYMnYOURf-E/s320/IMGP0004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532500272767728562" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Basil cutting transplants<br /></span></div>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-39094324530898504112010-10-19T13:15:00.000-07:002010-10-26T13:22:02.516-07:00Starting your own Herb Garden Part 4: The Indoor/Potted Herb Garden<span style="font-size:85%;">Missed the beginning of the series? Read them here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/09/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-1.html">Starting your own Herb Garden: Part 1: The Benefits of Fresh Herbs</a>, here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-2.html">Starting your own Herb Garden Part 2: Planning and Layout</a>, and here: <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-3.html">Starting your own Herb Garden Part 3: Seed Starting and Growing from Cuttings</a></span><a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-3.html"><br /></a><br />This week TAiMH will show you how to make a variety of beautiful recycled herb planters and get some ideas for creating your own unique indoor herb garden. It's time to get creative.<br /><br />But first, an update on the seeds we planted last week in our totally recycled starter pots:<br /><br />Yes, I confess these are watermelon seeds, not herbs. My herbs are already potted or planted. But you get the idea. It works.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-XJGAOZoz8EM-eKixWGwQzpX_YzkQ8XaHtcKCx2TJsmz34mqw7e0ZEt_FD9FL-CFlCEOuskXfkk__ObMTnUQc5JO19GNFuCjS4_Kj4GLRfhFNEGzT5xjwScRmJD7viasGKvW07eL3uc/s1600/IMGP0017.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-XJGAOZoz8EM-eKixWGwQzpX_YzkQ8XaHtcKCx2TJsmz34mqw7e0ZEt_FD9FL-CFlCEOuskXfkk__ObMTnUQc5JO19GNFuCjS4_Kj4GLRfhFNEGzT5xjwScRmJD7viasGKvW07eL3uc/s320/IMGP0017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529859450922150370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">8 out of 14 watermelon seeds (from farmer's market watermelon) germinated!</span><br /></div><br />Also, I happened to buy a little ceramic elephant oil burner that came in this little clear plastic box. So instead of throwing away the packaging, I've recycled it into the perfect mini-greenhouse.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgapKQCplj9tGxL1K3m6HykxP2rahVPut4QtqvMq3fczVtHwExAUrPuaOQq1ZId4hDWkDDAfdZuW-P56RrdR-dkJaBAHvtWvBFmw_VQr__mykNeTo7jKx6gAyyT25NyDPU87Gi5ZCAdWCk/s1600/IMGP0020.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgapKQCplj9tGxL1K3m6HykxP2rahVPut4QtqvMq3fczVtHwExAUrPuaOQq1ZId4hDWkDDAfdZuW-P56RrdR-dkJaBAHvtWvBFmw_VQr__mykNeTo7jKx6gAyyT25NyDPU87Gi5ZCAdWCk/s320/IMGP0020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529859454768600610" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I planted habanero pepper seeds in these. They're notoriously hard to germinate. Cross your fingers for me.<br /><br /></span></div>Inside are more recycled starter pots, these ones made from styrofoam coffee cups. Starbucks espresso cups work well too, by the way. However, I certainly don't recommend buying disposable cups if you can bring your own travel mug for them to fill. MDT just happened to buy us surprise snacks at the fair last week, which came in these.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8m3iKm5eC_kCgX0e6_9dLPY6JLgeqEiZBcMijFmS_muc8ZEuiOV2yLXHuaa5NV5nqLeFeQ0Tc-ZGPptc0gXZB6IpslRNgslzghRmmXhRpl0apG1dlqe0XIsFjgaM8dDWz6JDp0w4VcY/s1600/IMGP0018.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8m3iKm5eC_kCgX0e6_9dLPY6JLgeqEiZBcMijFmS_muc8ZEuiOV2yLXHuaa5NV5nqLeFeQ0Tc-ZGPptc0gXZB6IpslRNgslzghRmmXhRpl0apG1dlqe0XIsFjgaM8dDWz6JDp0w4VcY/s320/IMGP0018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529860122305571666" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Recycled mini-greenhouse<br /></span></div><br /><br />Now that your little seeds have germinated, the next step is to pot them. Here are some ideas for creative recycled planters<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hack #1: Turn vegetable cans/tins into a matching set of planters for your indoor herb garden.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Materials</span><br /><ul><li>vegetable cans/tins (remember to poke holes in the bottom for drainage)</li><li>ribbon, buttons, bottle caps, bows, or any other little decorative, waterproof things you've got lying around</li><li>a hot glue gun (or at least some super glue)</li><li>Scotch tape</li><li>Sharpies</li></ul><br />Possibilities:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRp6v0277VAemVB-QttAlWY3jHucw9ZbrQLyQPKvpUotcSGPu7kpDXdYvNVhyphenhyphenrb8aBAaqxnVuzO-rJ5QsOf8PFExwSe8DDcXnVyYaKCXvl2jhsHyhN2zI-MGBNbiu6m6w-hdygtleZMs/s1600/IMGP0023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRp6v0277VAemVB-QttAlWY3jHucw9ZbrQLyQPKvpUotcSGPu7kpDXdYvNVhyphenhyphenrb8aBAaqxnVuzO-rJ5QsOf8PFExwSe8DDcXnVyYaKCXvl2jhsHyhN2zI-MGBNbiu6m6w-hdygtleZMs/s320/IMGP0023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529859465573556050" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I've been dying to do one covered in multicolored buttons, but I haven't collected enough yet.</span></div><br /><br />Need more inspiration? How about these great recycled planters:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0k-Isa4TxLmeksS1rvB2vA7iHspz4ZeMAdV6RPnT2-_QQB_k7kSTLQXNbaaKAQm-J9404P9VqIwUs6yCHIdaSUxoC4lznD3J2tG-yhEAovUGR-wnaYcVhg33zrdowtL_wybjDdpukJrc/s1600/recycled3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0k-Isa4TxLmeksS1rvB2vA7iHspz4ZeMAdV6RPnT2-_QQB_k7kSTLQXNbaaKAQm-J9404P9VqIwUs6yCHIdaSUxoC4lznD3J2tG-yhEAovUGR-wnaYcVhg33zrdowtL_wybjDdpukJrc/s320/recycled3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529862960836333778" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">culantro (related to cilantro) in a broken concrete block<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1358/1313480300_656bb615ef.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 382px; height: 286px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1358/1313480300_656bb615ef.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">2 liter bottle herb garden from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/greenscaper/1313480300/sizes/m/in/photostream/">GreenScaper</a></span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9wefVGr6wgpSelGBVLjnfmouP6I2Dh4KIFtGIF7bB-E5HBB9pQ_ElNqX5dwhofyCp9KMFd-Oc_taeLA11UhkItCr-jKKDMy1ZH8uzNoPkLPNRpQb-MBhaaW8MuGdpiHV5mF8P_eCApQ/s1600/recycled2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9wefVGr6wgpSelGBVLjnfmouP6I2Dh4KIFtGIF7bB-E5HBB9pQ_ElNqX5dwhofyCp9KMFd-Oc_taeLA11UhkItCr-jKKDMy1ZH8uzNoPkLPNRpQb-MBhaaW8MuGdpiHV5mF8P_eCApQ/s320/recycled2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529862950175684018" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Coffee can hanging planter, tutorial on <a href="http://beachpetals.blogspot.com/2010/03/recycle-metal-cans-into-hanging-flower.html">Beach Petals</a></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfZlGV79vj6n_zDxi3xyZERur-zZ8XcQUy1vaHmk5jI1sQhyphenhyphen9FvK9jD0sr_tK6M0Jw2HuucscB1sVdP8jGcYkHZ2PNhckzYMDioZtrKg49B5-XmQGLZFCLrqhBXItSZYSSzBfnshN9Eo/s1600/plant_pot.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfZlGV79vj6n_zDxi3xyZERur-zZ8XcQUy1vaHmk5jI1sQhyphenhyphen9FvK9jD0sr_tK6M0Jw2HuucscB1sVdP8jGcYkHZ2PNhckzYMDioZtrKg49B5-XmQGLZFCLrqhBXItSZYSSzBfnshN9Eo/s320/plant_pot.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529862936991229970" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">recycled windowsill herb garden, from <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/la/inspiration-windowsill-garden-melbourne-086174">Apartment Therapy</a></span><br /></div><br /><br />If you haven't got any suitable materials to recycle into planters, why not buy some cheap ceramic pots and paint/decorate them yourself? Fresh paint is also a great way to recycle an ugly old pot into a pretty one that matches your kitchen. ;)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYazgWjcsOI622Vgweqain-CuzxLY9P9Okp8woFhH4OWOP7DSgPig2gtxeqbPARK8fb3Bl3wrfA4WRu7LLXHLCEW8wF096RpUQWvocOUfSWX-JJPrtedUdNMSCruMCwxY6C4PEv8Lw-Xs/s1600/paintedpot.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYazgWjcsOI622Vgweqain-CuzxLY9P9Okp8woFhH4OWOP7DSgPig2gtxeqbPARK8fb3Bl3wrfA4WRu7LLXHLCEW8wF096RpUQWvocOUfSWX-JJPrtedUdNMSCruMCwxY6C4PEv8Lw-Xs/s320/paintedpot.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529859472226473906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Plain ceramic pot $1, painted with acrylics<br /></span></div><br /><br />Ready to transplant?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transplanting Seedlings</span><br />When your herb seedlings are about 3-4 inches tall, they're ready to transplant into your new lovely planters. Fill your new planter to about an inch from the top with potting soil and make an indent in the center in which to place your seedling. Peel off the masking tape from around the starter pot, carefully remove the paper bottom, and place your seedling, paper towel roll and all into your new planter. Water lightly.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transplanting cuttings</span><br />When your cutting has roots at least 4 inches long, you're ready to transplant it. Again, fill your new planter to about an inch from the top with potting soil and make an indent in the center in which to place your cutting. To ease the roots' transition from water to soil, make sure the soil in the pot is very wet. I do this by simply pouring a bunch of water right into the indent I've made for the cutting, and immediately inserting the cutting. Then add soil to fill the hole, and water again lightly.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CvKK04EOP9OnlOFzWvzsxoQnZ3RjHdH7acp7pARpUU5n8N7zA2hV5Jx5S2W0vApA52alod-bnQjEhZ4Lhlc33O5iLhgG1CfBgisLrZk6ymaCPwR5JdnKohwqojzysYKBqTo7ffgsg04/s1600/recycled-cans.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CvKK04EOP9OnlOFzWvzsxoQnZ3RjHdH7acp7pARpUU5n8N7zA2hV5Jx5S2W0vApA52alod-bnQjEhZ4Lhlc33O5iLhgG1CfBgisLrZk6ymaCPwR5JdnKohwqojzysYKBqTo7ffgsg04/s320/recycled-cans.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529859479634351522" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Basil (transplanted from cutting) and Cat Grass (from seed)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQzjNii3aOGKN5XpmXBchdd7MV8gDxo3JA5uHeyRdj6_bwRspz7_ELzAZ-QnTxgS3DmsJKq391aoLGPcwzjAnxBFXfS6hrgY8eOu7FbCCkNNe_F13Vd-wJliiu9Hns4gcndYOIMbDwTo/s1600/transplanted+cuttings.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQzjNii3aOGKN5XpmXBchdd7MV8gDxo3JA5uHeyRdj6_bwRspz7_ELzAZ-QnTxgS3DmsJKq391aoLGPcwzjAnxBFXfS6hrgY8eOu7FbCCkNNe_F13Vd-wJliiu9Hns4gcndYOIMbDwTo/s320/transplanted+cuttings.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532450465227134130" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">More basil cut from the same parent plant and transplanted</span><br /><br /><br /></div>Next week, join us for our final Starting Your Own Herb Garden installment where we'll show you how to grow garlic, ginger, and other herbs you can plant straight in the ground.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-19763304339422367222010-10-11T16:40:00.000-07:002010-10-11T17:55:00.953-07:00Starting your own Herb Garden Part 3: Seed Starting and Growing from Cuttings<span style="font-size:85%;">Missed Parts 1 & 2? Read them here:<a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/09/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-1.html"> Starting your own Herb Garden: Part 1</a> and here:<a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/10/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-2.html"> Starting your own Herb Garden Part 2: Planning and Layout</a></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUd7mDf2yyWUqGRafvs6YRVrqwyaIg4AfEErkaNp52YeviF-5pvUwnJjiv3InzpHzcuzbgE-9cRYj8IE61jxwZZ8qlPCFFOjAKQpp3C8qznHeElrKv1B7ayuAKWZz3RK9d1vhb7mQmwE/s1600/Garden_Oct-16.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 316px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUd7mDf2yyWUqGRafvs6YRVrqwyaIg4AfEErkaNp52YeviF-5pvUwnJjiv3InzpHzcuzbgE-9cRYj8IE61jxwZZ8qlPCFFOjAKQpp3C8qznHeElrKv1B7ayuAKWZz3RK9d1vhb7mQmwE/s320/Garden_Oct-16.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526946129850176306" border="0" /></a><br />This week we'll learn how to start your seeds indoors for later planting outside, and how to start a new plant from a cutting.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Indoor Seed Starting</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Hack #1: Make your own "peat" pots for free</span><br />The point of starting your seeds in peat pots rather than in plastic containers is that you can put them straight in the ground, pot and all, and not have to worry about ripping roots. But you don't have to go out and buy these guys, you can make them yourself with household items.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Materials</span><br />For the pots:<br /><ul><li>a newspaper (B&W pages only)</li></ul>OR<br /><ul><li>several toilet paper/paper towel rolls</li><li>scrap paper</li><li>masking tape or string<br /></li></ul><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For the tray</span><br /><ul><li>a plastic grocery bag</li><li>duct or masking tape</li><li>a cardboard box</li></ul><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />If you're using paper towel or toilet paper rolls:<br /><ol><li>For toilet paper rolls, cut in half. For paper towel rolls, cut in four.</li><li>Wrap a piece of masking tape around the middle of each roll. This is so that after a few days of watering, the rolls don't start to come apart and unravel (like they are in my picture).<br /></li><li>Cut your scrap paper into roughly 4" x 4" squares.</li><li>Stuff a square of paper into each roll and shape it to form the bottom of the pot.</li></ol><br />If you're using newspaper:<br /><ol><li>Find a cup, jar, or can with roughly the circumference you want for your pots (about as big around as a toilet paper roll).</li><li>Take a sheet of newspaper and wrap in around the jar several times. Then fold the remaining length on the bottom to cover the bottom of the cup/jar/can. </li><li>To make the bottom stay put, wet it just a little. I use my ironing spray bottle. Then smash it down hard. </li><li>Slide your new pot off the jar/can/cup and fold the remaining length on the top down inside the pot to strengthen the walls. Spray with a bit of water if necessary.</li><li>Let dry.</li><li>Repeat process for each pot.</li></ol><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4XysRrEAAR30iAIJl-phXE3qA_bFs8sH4W26SUmXjvrmE87TJjtNDKOfyul_6P4u0Aclm5Zj1Hgr1P15WOwkLzGMPZBzZPmaqKaPF_Nkfu8Y4tnbjHxtadwmQ4Y4xX8wTHuQgoZ-Tdc/s1600/Garden_Oct-9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4XysRrEAAR30iAIJl-phXE3qA_bFs8sH4W26SUmXjvrmE87TJjtNDKOfyul_6P4u0Aclm5Zj1Hgr1P15WOwkLzGMPZBzZPmaqKaPF_Nkfu8Y4tnbjHxtadwmQ4Y4xX8wTHuQgoZ-Tdc/s320/Garden_Oct-9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526938426827524818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">toilet paper starter pots with paper bottoms and potting soil</span><br /><br /></div>For a tray to put them in:<br /><ol><li>Cut down the sides of your cardboard box to about the height of the pots.<br /></li><li>Cut your plastic grocery bag down the sides, and cut off the handles. Use it to line the inside of the box. Tape in place.<br /></li><li>If you're going to plant more than one type of seed in the tray or you're making more than one tray, you might want to label the outside of the tray/box with a marker, so you don't forget what you've planted where.</li></ol><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Planting Your Seeds</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Hack #2: Instant Greenhouse</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Materials</span><br /><ul><li>Starter pots and trays</li><li>potting soil OR regular soil plus liquid fertilizer (e.g., Miracle Gro)</li><li>plastic wrap or other clear plastic</li></ul><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Now that you've got your starter pots ready, it's time to plant.<br /><ol><li>First, fill your pots with soil. If you're using regular soil, spray each filled pots generously with the liquid fertilizer and then wait until tomorrow to plant your seeds. </li><li>Check your seeds packs for any special instructions, such as soaking the seeds in water. Then, using a chopstick or a pencil (eraser end), poke a hole about an inch deep in each pot (or less, depending on the type of seed) and drop in a seed. </li><li>Spray the seed with water and gently push the soil back over it. Do not press down. The soil should be loose, not packed.</li><li>Cut the clear plastic to fit and lay it over the pots.</li><li>Set the tray in a sunny window, under a lamp with an incandescent light bulb, or in some other warm location. </li></ol><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdGrMwyA69T_cXXRJwKDbmUqjh9pdRl_CQWIxsveSDUOTa8Ty22QfDm-sz8uwGlICMAI7nuNtZcbGzDWX6s-x1gJ5OasjU7G0f9DccZobJo3hGX_K0nDslSSfpU-u46gYbD6R75lrCaQ/s1600/Garden_Oct-8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdGrMwyA69T_cXXRJwKDbmUqjh9pdRl_CQWIxsveSDUOTa8Ty22QfDm-sz8uwGlICMAI7nuNtZcbGzDWX6s-x1gJ5OasjU7G0f9DccZobJo3hGX_K0nDslSSfpU-u46gYbD6R75lrCaQ/s320/Garden_Oct-8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526938421729930962" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Messily taped but fully functional seed tray with starter pots and "greenhouse" (AKA clear plastic)<br /><br /></span></div>Keep your seeds warm and moist and they'll germinate in no time. Once germinated, they'll need sun as well as warmth, so clear some windowsill room. Leave the plastic on top only until the seedling get about an inch high.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Starting a New Plant from a Cutting</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Materials</span><br /><ul><li>old soda or water bottle with a narrow mouth, clear plastic is best so you can see the roots growing</li><li>a plant that propagates from cuttings</li><li>liquid plant food (e.g., Miracle Gro) optional<br /></li></ul><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br /><ol><li>Choose a stem with at least four leaves and cut it off on the diagonal, preferably just above a lower set of leaves. The cutting should be at least four inches long.</li><li>Fill your old bottle with water and gently set the cutting in it. Pour out excess water until only the bottom 2-3 inches of the stem is immersed.</li><li>Change the water every few days, adding a tiny bit of liquid plant food if desired.</li></ol><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlZyyJjuWIi2d1jxbp-GVWmxBI_gbVYPhPs2C9ptrDNCUAIoTfZ8RYJrzIlUCpC1TfV6F4zTIS6whL9szteyd1_OSh4raBK51YZEjTzOt8qbjrNeKG-WPS-syQhNOwsdD9QAz0e19fPc/s1600/Garden_Oct-15.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlZyyJjuWIi2d1jxbp-GVWmxBI_gbVYPhPs2C9ptrDNCUAIoTfZ8RYJrzIlUCpC1TfV6F4zTIS6whL9szteyd1_OSh4raBK51YZEjTzOt8qbjrNeKG-WPS-syQhNOwsdD9QAz0e19fPc/s320/Garden_Oct-15.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526946114130756962" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Several mint cuttings, after about 2 weeks in water<br /><br /><br /><br /></span></div>Next week, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Planting in Pots and Outdoors</span>: Learn how to make a variety of beautiful recycled herb pots and planters and get some ideas for creating your own unique herb garden. It's time to get creative.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-85138969779303111052010-10-03T16:28:00.000-07:002010-10-03T19:12:36.937-07:00Starting your own Herb Garden Part 2: Planning and Layout<span style="font-size:85%;">Missed Part 1? Read it here:<a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/09/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-1.html"> Starting your own Herb Garden: Part 1</a></span><br /><br /><a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2010/09/starting-your-own-herb-garden-part-1.html"></a><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LEdNugsJ48TKeZ72Pb7zrrir_fONyVknlQFTQp6UiyAsISsQMFh7VcBNvFJnqnCS7fZl7A_MPG7gdFLG8mGcje7LdiFiOO_yda3iTpSkMDATM8MmU2ElPb4NZMKy-ddcd54VRgBK2g0/s320/1+containter.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523969866964909314" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Planning Your Herb Garden</span><br /><br />Maybe you're thinking you can skip this step. Who needs to plan? Let's just throw some seeds in the ground! But some herbs are picky. Several are very difficult to germinate and are best started by cuttings from an existing plant. Some difficult to germinate plants don't propagate well from cuttings; these you'll be best off buying as seedlings. Planning is especially important with regards to timing and placement. Some plants prefer a shady spot, while others grow best in full or partial sun. Some need well-drained soil, while others can be put in a spot that gets a lot of rain.<br /><br />Did you know that fall is the best time to plan your spring gardens? That's because it gives you plenty of time before spring to plan your garden layout and get your seeds on sale. It's also a nice opportunity to freshen up your living space for the long winter. A few fragrant potted herbs on the windowsills goes a long way to brightening up your home when outside things are chilly and dreary.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gt7083sWIgRwAS24Eab9q-Xy_AWg5QjNhGrhJpgD86u-Esk9Psl39wRr294jxgiNg6IBV5f9up63pl3ZB46W7IW-42KauaZ6QzQUb37_BRccLHEtpLPo0KDrH85foMdFneIVX9lz9qM/s320/DSC_0844.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523969261729675010" border="0" /><br /><br />Herb gardens come in many different shapes and sizes. If your space outside is limited or you want to keep your garden growing year-round without fear of frost, you can plant your herbs in pots and keep them by a sunny window. Potting your herbs can also be a good idea if you have poor soil or if you live in the city and only have a balcony or rooftop for your yard. Some herbs like mint (see photos below), which will spread like crazy if you plant it in the ground, are simply better suited to pots. Plan well or all your efforts may go to waste. Not to worry, though. We'll show you how to make garden planning quick and easy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCxO1jQ3ZpAWKHFXcECWrtmmoyAlBa17K56Pn8n1XRGVIqVV2jD8yDbgFGbVeoLacSkmYp1myKLPDU-kjVweQPsd91iXnYA1rQklvfszmqyFCUVbztPY5rQhRfkk0Zz0RQWAJAH2bHzo/s1600/mint1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 165px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCxO1jQ3ZpAWKHFXcECWrtmmoyAlBa17K56Pn8n1XRGVIqVV2jD8yDbgFGbVeoLacSkmYp1myKLPDU-kjVweQPsd91iXnYA1rQklvfszmqyFCUVbztPY5rQhRfkk0Zz0RQWAJAH2bHzo/s200/mint1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523976403574559218" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNOoHgbssjXgX389ctq1pEd-demj3gREhiS7zk6Mmx5IYyMwqdJ_p5b1u41dZzPsnBkGFpSruRFt5ipEHUmBdHv1ppUIhS6xONjFbaePXJ5pcZyTnngQWe3oFIk1ye5VwbEjI8XcRPo0/s1600/mint2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNOoHgbssjXgX389ctq1pEd-demj3gREhiS7zk6Mmx5IYyMwqdJ_p5b1u41dZzPsnBkGFpSruRFt5ipEHUmBdHv1ppUIhS6xONjFbaePXJ5pcZyTnngQWe3oFIk1ye5VwbEjI8XcRPo0/s200/mint2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523976484429003410" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Mint growth and spreading in 1 month</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1:</span> Choose which herbs you'd like to grow and get the seeds.<br />You may want to grow a certain herb based on taste, smell, or just because it's pretty to look at. See the list of commonly used herbs in Part 1, but keep in mind that this is just a short list; there are many more choices available. If your local gardening store doesn't carry the seeds, you can order them from a <a href="http://www.google.com/search?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=&=&q=seed+company+herbs&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=">seed company</a> online. Since this is a blog about saving money, here are some tips for getting cheap seeds.<br /><ul><li> Ask your friends, relatives, coworkers, and neighbors if they have seeds or cuttings they could share with you.</li><li> Check your local dollar store. They'll often have seed packs of common herbs for less than a dollar a piece.</li><li> Late spring to midsummer is the best time to find seed packs on sale. Garden and home improvement stores will often put all their seeds on clearance around this time. Though it might be too late to plant them outside, you can always plant them inside in pots and move them outdoors in the spring or just hold onto them for next year. I've found that most seeds last at least one year after the expiration date stamped on the packet, with no ill effects.</li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </span>Determine when and where to plant your chosen herbs.<br />Read the seed packets or, if you're not planting from seed, just do a Google search for information. For partial-sun- or shade-loving plants, consider potting them and keeping them inside near a window or putting them in a hanging basket under an overhang. You can also plant them outside in the ground if you have a suitable shady area, perhaps along a wall or solid fence (to block harder rains) or under a deck overhang or awning. If your garden will be totally indoors, put the plants that need the most sun in a window that faces south or southeast (assuming you live in the Northern Hemisphere.) Most herbs will do fine with about 5 hours hours of indirect sun a day.<br /><br />Also pay attention to the level of moisture preferred by each plant and check the soil in the various locations you've chosen to plant. You don't want to put a plant that prefers drier soil in a low spot where water tends to gather, for instance.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3:</span> Plan your herb garden layout.<br />Draw a simple map of your yard/balcony/apartment and label where you will place each plant according to your findings in Step 2. Don't forget to allot windowsill and porch space.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYik81SvMwKyIpvE2b-CuHyaymmLdgRfnQ6Gh1NDdjBB8s4yWiQJmlekgMLDCddDHYhjbXOAuEvalhrpEvs83SuRtPfMcAOKJL0jxP911j6poMM_Rtvmmv1pAk6qeu-MHQJfn81np3Upo/s1600/garden+planner.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYik81SvMwKyIpvE2b-CuHyaymmLdgRfnQ6Gh1NDdjBB8s4yWiQJmlekgMLDCddDHYhjbXOAuEvalhrpEvs83SuRtPfMcAOKJL0jxP911j6poMM_Rtvmmv1pAk6qeu-MHQJfn81np3Upo/s320/garden+planner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523972152540531442" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Example garden layout plan</span><br /><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 4:</span> Schedule the planting.<br />When to plant your herbs depends partially on your location. Consult the seed packet/internet instructions for best results. Most of them will have a map showing the best time to plant those seeds in your area. Some plants have a better chance of surviving if they're started in peat pots indoors a little before outdoor planting time and then transplanted as seedlings into their outside beds. Consult those seed packets again. Now, on the garden plan you made in Step 3, note the outdoor planting time for each herb and whether you're going to start them indoors beforehand.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixle1y-75-h-1DLx6FgIep7iwZ7KxRPZE5xmB8ufq4DPOiVJxGPIP7Jope1vYBnRVS7U3rEmGMSj_2UPfxiy9sp7zX7tuqmVDQaPM7O8kBic9vVrT6EB9xph4qr1C11CFsByGOPppK6rM/s1600/gardenplan-dates.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 222px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixle1y-75-h-1DLx6FgIep7iwZ7KxRPZE5xmB8ufq4DPOiVJxGPIP7Jope1vYBnRVS7U3rEmGMSj_2UPfxiy9sp7zX7tuqmVDQaPM7O8kBic9vVrT6EB9xph4qr1C11CFsByGOPppK6rM/s320/gardenplan-dates.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523973834816569154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Example garden layout plan with timeline</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 5: </span>Make a planting timeline.<br />If you're only planting a few herbs you won't need this step, but it's helpful if you're planning a larger herb garden with many varieties. On the back of your garden layout plan or in the margin, make a list, in chronological order, of when you will plant and transplant each herb. This will help you stay organized so you don't forget and miss your planting times.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgojm4zZMedtvwytFcelH-l8UGh-dFw2MA15gtpAqRWKF3LfwZKBVltF5n7ZLAaDYHA-5Vw6jAx5kDktthdTIbekR1ywIXMII5y3YI4t6yyzlzlNHceZPX6eTB5l9TcX3BUc1kA2oUNE/s1600/basil.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgojm4zZMedtvwytFcelH-l8UGh-dFw2MA15gtpAqRWKF3LfwZKBVltF5n7ZLAaDYHA-5Vw6jAx5kDktthdTIbekR1ywIXMII5y3YI4t6yyzlzlNHceZPX6eTB5l9TcX3BUc1kA2oUNE/s320/basil.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523977358003911378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Basil in a sunny, well-drained spot</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Next Up: </span><span>Starting your own Herb Garden Part 3: Planting</span><br />Learn how to create recycled "peat" pots in which to start your seeds indoors, how to grow your garden organically on the cheap, and how to make a variety of beautiful recycled planters. Also: ideas for unique gardens. It's time to get creative.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-42905926159428356512010-09-27T10:09:00.000-07:002010-09-30T09:42:03.221-07:00Starting your own Herb Garden: Part 1<span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Benefits of Fresh Herbs</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhym3Cb3LQF7E-Gz3_71DNYXajw9RXgaRW3N84g-XDJfgXo4EyX8Y-xfkdW0yOcfk2FvtH-gz0n94ZHK5UvJH_sagt4a0X-9XQNMlGLZOAoLokbKAjoMKiYAktE3_VLt7JrtL9PSDu8Lzs/s1600/k7474-18.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhym3Cb3LQF7E-Gz3_71DNYXajw9RXgaRW3N84g-XDJfgXo4EyX8Y-xfkdW0yOcfk2FvtH-gz0n94ZHK5UvJH_sagt4a0X-9XQNMlGLZOAoLokbKAjoMKiYAktE3_VLt7JrtL9PSDu8Lzs/s200/k7474-18.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521704262832665970" border="0" /></a><br />There are so many benefits to growing your own herbs. You save money on store-bought fresh herbs, which tend to be overpriced, and home-grown always tastes better. Plus, with your own herb garden there's no realizing you don't have the spice you need halfway into cooking dinner. You just step outside and pick it! And, did you know that herbs are extremely good for you? According to the <a href="http://nutritiondiva.quickanddirtytips.com/are-herbs-good-for-you.aspx">Nutrition Diva</a>, ". . . ounce for ounce, fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, parsley, and basil are among the most nutritious greens you can find." Besides vitamins and antioxidants, she adds that "herbs are also very rich in a wide range of disease-fighting phytochemicals. Almost all green herbs have potent anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties." She also notes that, like fruits and vegetables, herbs are most potent and contain the most nutrients when they are freshly picked.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Some commonly used herbs and their benefits/uses</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Basil</span>: helps regulate blood pressure and prevent free-radical damage, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Chamomile</span>: helps calm the nerves and promote sleep, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Cilantro</span>: helps increase HDL cholesterol (the good kind) and reduce LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), promotes healthy liver function, helps reduce menstrual cramping, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Dill</span>: helps neutralize carcinogens, high in calcium, antioxidant<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Garlic</span>: lowers cholesterol and blood sugar levels, helps prevent blood clots and cancerous tumors, fights bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, and supports healthy heart function<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ginger</span>: lowers cholesterol, stimulates blood circulation, helps relieve indigestion and joint pain, used as an expectorant<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Oregano</span>: high in iron and manganese, protects against and fights dysentery and is especially effective against Giardia, one of the most common intestinal infections caused by water parasites<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Parsley</span>: high in iron, folic acid, and vitamins A and C, antioxidant, antibacterial, diuretic<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Peppermint</span>: helps calm muscle spasms and relieve headache, nausea, and menstrual cramps, and gastrointestinal upset; used as a cough suppressant and decongestant<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Rosemary</span>: helps kill bacteria that cause infection, improve digestion, and clear congestion, may help prevent Alzheimer's disease, antioxidant<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sage</span>: helps reduce digestive problems, sore throat, premenstrual cramps, and even excessive perspiration; lowers blood sugar, antibacterial<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Thyme</span>: helps protect against age-related change in the brain, high in manganese, antimicrobial<br /><br /><br />Pretty amazing, right? Next week, we'll get started on helping you plan and plant your own herb garden. Stay tuned.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">References</span><br />http://www.vitaminstuff.com/herbs.html<br />http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/cilantro.html<br />http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=100<br />http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=77<br />http://www.vitaminstuff.com/herbs-peppermint.html<br />http://nutritiondiva.quickanddirtytips.com/are-herbs-good-for-you.aspx<br /></span>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-67220327341427761652010-09-19T14:53:00.000-07:002010-09-19T15:01:16.529-07:00Fun and Cheap Ways to Spend Time with Your Honey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3387/3588121004_de24a4f939_z.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 308px; height: 217px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3387/3588121004_de24a4f939_z.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Let’s face it: the whole pizza-and-a-movie-at-home bit gets old really fast. So don’t let it get to the point of cholesterol problems from pepperoni grease or multiple viewings of Date Night. Your body, your mind, and your significant other will thank you. Simply browse through the following ideas for ways to spend time with your special someone that will get you out and about, learning more about each other, and having fun while nurturing your wallets.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Group or Double Date with Board and Video Games</span><br />This is a great idea if you know some other couples in your area who’d rather not break the bank over one night at a fancy restaurant. Schedule some group or double dates at each other’s houses or apartments, playing a new board game or trying out a new Wii challenge together. It will get you out of your own place, so it’s a change of scenery, and you’ll get to interact with other fun couples. Chances are that you’ll learn something new about each other, such as a hidden talent for singing Rock Band solos. You might still order some pizza, but changing one out of two tired dating habits isn’t too shabby.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Go Local</span><br />Try checking out your city’s website to find out if you have some of these events or venues in your area:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Farmer’s market:</span> Reasonably priced and fresh, it’s also a fun place to go if you want to simply look around together. You can look up recipes beforehand, pick up the perfect ingredients at a budget-friendly rate, and enjoy cooking a meal together later in the day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Art, history, or science museums:</span> These are often free or very reasonably priced for admission. You’ll learn something about the world around you and might even discover a special interest or hobby that your date is passionate about.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Used bookstores:</span> If you’re of the literary persuasion, this is fun, interesting, and expands your book collection for next to nothing. Find out what kinds of books you both enjoy, then get double the value by reading each other’s purchases.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Consignment shops:</span> If you ever do go out on a “real” dinner date, dress each other up for the special occasion by shopping together at consignment shops. Make a deal that you’ll set up a budget for the outfits and that you each have to wear what the other one picks out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">College and university exhibitions:</span> Students in all kinds of arts programs often set up events that are free and open to the public, such as art exhibitions, dance and music recitals, and theatre productions. If there’s a charge, it’s usually minimal and goes to support higher education, so you’re not throwing your money away. You might enjoy the experience and find that you’re frugal patrons of the arts.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">State or national parks:</span> Make a day trip of it, bring a picnic, and have a great time. You might invest in some good trail shoes, but otherwise, you won’t have to buy anything. Most parks have free admission, and if not, the fee should be low (around $10). If the park you choose does charge too much, try gardens at universities and colleges for your picnic location.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">This article was written by guest blogger Alexis Bonari of <a href="http://www.collegescholarships.org">www.collegescholarships.org</a>. Thanks for the ideas, Alexis!</span>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-17170984168314321662010-08-16T10:35:00.000-07:002010-08-16T12:49:45.939-07:00Make a Cat Scratching Post for FREE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMgdBesGJ_-GMaqTtN4DUDJBxhwQZ5vYz5pzxx13qZd0jO9F2WDVf1f_S3CCZOWhyphenhyphen4G7S5mOLiybG1Usi7YhKDAE6SCq1W9LlFg2k9BeKHrafWs5lexsg869AU4EC7ikp6kBB37Tsjto/s1600/cat-scratcher1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; float: right; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 297px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMgdBesGJ_-GMaqTtN4DUDJBxhwQZ5vYz5pzxx13qZd0jO9F2WDVf1f_S3CCZOWhyphenhyphen4G7S5mOLiybG1Usi7YhKDAE6SCq1W9LlFg2k9BeKHrafWs5lexsg869AU4EC7ikp6kBB37Tsjto/s320/cat-scratcher1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506070254846625938" border="0" /></a>So, yesterday I made a scratching block for my cats, in under 20 minutes, just like the ones I've seen at pet stores for up to $25 (see below). For absolutely free. And it's double-sided!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDZYejMbUU9Fl82clL6C-xymWCIB0Ql2mJrptiEDyscUywivw93CbJ8DNkqUSbarsuYgb0e9fSEy6UZMj1l3jj4eI7dKyYV3OWLZaS8OhdkCtHwH2rNBxaUZ5Vg02pXujRMYTUhMIG64/s1600/scratcher.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 132px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDZYejMbUU9Fl82clL6C-xymWCIB0Ql2mJrptiEDyscUywivw93CbJ8DNkqUSbarsuYgb0e9fSEy6UZMj1l3jj4eI7dKyYV3OWLZaS8OhdkCtHwH2rNBxaUZ5Vg02pXujRMYTUhMIG64/s320/scratcher.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506085853403724770" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Materials</span>:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIo30h5F775A9hbCT24BjAfS-MXY_Ncti3Jdz3YcYjKkbrayGQJSfM6ckhiG8dnRPLB6xAW5Cj9Hq-lzGkYfrUbWYrcHzRXNTvlELiyZ0bhp5c0mCCOhdiG5n2HlfLllFGi_k5uxdhWUw/s1600/cat-scratcher5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIo30h5F775A9hbCT24BjAfS-MXY_Ncti3Jdz3YcYjKkbrayGQJSfM6ckhiG8dnRPLB6xAW5Cj9Hq-lzGkYfrUbWYrcHzRXNTvlELiyZ0bhp5c0mCCOhdiG5n2HlfLllFGi_k5uxdhWUw/s320/cat-scratcher5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506074427393694290" border="0" /></a><ul><li>corrugated cardboard (from shipping inserts, old cardboard boxes, etc.) If you don't have any around, ask at your local corner store or grocery store if they have any extras lying around. That's what I did.</li><li>duct tape</li><li>scissors or a box cutter</li><li>ruler</li><li>pen or pencil</li><li>glue (regular school glue works just fine)</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixp1d6_LTwEIgO6c2aXgBHzAeZ5LvckJ44aAsX_GqIvyIv8U9LjBD2wcHmMiW818j-iAN759GiQSyemmQzmwhRJh6u-rQhOqFtHdkToHo-a3rJcg80RTDejGFfu_pRhjXoJFIZBKQ6r7g/s1600/cat-scratcher6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixp1d6_LTwEIgO6c2aXgBHzAeZ5LvckJ44aAsX_GqIvyIv8U9LjBD2wcHmMiW818j-iAN759GiQSyemmQzmwhRJh6u-rQhOqFtHdkToHo-a3rJcg80RTDejGFfu_pRhjXoJFIZBKQ6r7g/s320/cat-scratcher6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506074431071498930" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Directions</span><br /><ol><li>Take apart your box so you are left with flat pieces of cardboard.</li><li>With your ruler and pencil, measure and mark 2" strips, the desired length of the scratcher. (Mine is roughly 18" long because that's how long my boxes were once I disassembled and flattened them.)</li><li>Cut out the strips. Don't worry about creases. They don't matter.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IYyBT2ju_R0q6an6EbCAL_Jf-1SRKWvF8Abeqw0Op_qXGieXGETLaF2E-lPZs4pKLy7qWkRDofcIBw8f-XyWp4HA45NC1gFqSLmznSR1tShefZJDN4EEOkS5SktAPvzBuL9ls37O9_Y/s1600/cat-scratcher4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IYyBT2ju_R0q6an6EbCAL_Jf-1SRKWvF8Abeqw0Op_qXGieXGETLaF2E-lPZs4pKLy7qWkRDofcIBw8f-XyWp4HA45NC1gFqSLmznSR1tShefZJDN4EEOkS5SktAPvzBuL9ls37O9_Y/s320/cat-scratcher4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506070267170361394" border="0" /></a></li><li>Keep cutting out strips until you have enough, when stacked on top of one another and smashed together, to make the desired width of your scratcher. Mine ended up being about 6" wide. Next time I might make it a bit wider.</li><li>Once all your strips are cut, it's time to glue them together. Put a generous line of Elmer's on your first strip, lay another on top and repeat for the rest of the strips, making sure they're lined up evenly and working quickly so your glue doesn't dry yet.</li><li>Duct tape each end together to hold them in place and then place a couple of bricks or something else heavy on top of the whole thing to compress it and help the glue set.<br /></li><li>Wait 10-15 minutes, remove the bricks, duct tape 2 layers around the whole thing to secure it, and you're done.<br /></li></ol><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cMOnRbOjUSH8j8ye5xUwoz4ScW6gAV7ZFpiqFQdw77w9qGm3CYFaHYPy1V6YGktMJrYImBW3PpbL3ayssGAsLr6ORHHJ61o7I7AWhG0NoI1yz_D9b5-P1fBvHKPZesyd5i7Tnr3Zco4/s1600/cat-scratcher2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cMOnRbOjUSH8j8ye5xUwoz4ScW6gAV7ZFpiqFQdw77w9qGm3CYFaHYPy1V6YGktMJrYImBW3PpbL3ayssGAsLr6ORHHJ61o7I7AWhG0NoI1yz_D9b5-P1fBvHKPZesyd5i7Tnr3Zco4/s320/cat-scratcher2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506070263179342626" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKrvL3rH-ccrqCl_PMTI5kcevVtjoQJO7LrtccKUw2bQczqlK2dbYAtJtKzlNjEHMPIcfU52Tsw80hox-UK0KzenTvE8SPMB3I_Mp5UlD96kaCNPdv-DjRVwQ76O8q0VpjDeCQlKopb8/s1600/cat-scratcher3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKrvL3rH-ccrqCl_PMTI5kcevVtjoQJO7LrtccKUw2bQczqlK2dbYAtJtKzlNjEHMPIcfU52Tsw80hox-UK0KzenTvE8SPMB3I_Mp5UlD96kaCNPdv-DjRVwQ76O8q0VpjDeCQlKopb8/s320/cat-scratcher3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506070266776879490" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Tips</span>:<br /><ul><li>As a treat, sprinkle some catnip on the scratcher every once in a while. </li><li>I find my cats like the scratcher best either on carpet or a rug; otherwise it can slide while they're scratching--unless they're sitting on top of it like Ed likes to do.</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMgdBesGJ_-GMaqTtN4DUDJBxhwQZ5vYz5pzxx13qZd0jO9F2WDVf1f_S3CCZOWhyphenhyphen4G7S5mOLiybG1Usi7YhKDAE6SCq1W9LlFg2k9BeKHrafWs5lexsg869AU4EC7ikp6kBB37Tsjto/s1600/cat-scratcher1.jpg"><br /></a>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-67642828770433313442010-06-27T12:10:00.000-07:002010-06-27T12:32:51.910-07:00Recipe: Enchiladas that taste better than the ones you get at restaurants<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3A2qR7WaT6n6OI_vl_-FBGLp7lRewiAy5ujkj4gbJ3X-fILNedyn0nRuIfCEnjIztMA2uRJdGgxu7pRTter5U-YCg5bynPcEYuyDW1RUFLlJgDP0i1ljJqCGvwdtT_AarvWtmjSLhz4/s1600/100_1977.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3A2qR7WaT6n6OI_vl_-FBGLp7lRewiAy5ujkj4gbJ3X-fILNedyn0nRuIfCEnjIztMA2uRJdGgxu7pRTter5U-YCg5bynPcEYuyDW1RUFLlJgDP0i1ljJqCGvwdtT_AarvWtmjSLhz4/s320/100_1977.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487537968859624562" border="0" /></a><br />We haven't posted a recipe in a while, so here's a most delicious one that's supremely easy and quick.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />1 pack of whole wheat tortillas<br />2-3 green onions, finely chopped<br />2 cans fat-free refried beans<br />1 can of diced tomatoes OR 3-4 medium tomatoes, diced<br />1-2 jalapeño peppers, finely choppe<br />1 can enchilada sauce<br />1 bag shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese<br />large handful of fresh cilantro, finely chopped<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Preface</span><br />In my opinion, the enchilada sauce in the most important ingredients. Enchiladas are just not enchiladas without the sauce. Do not attempt this recipe without it. I find it difficult to make my own that has the right taste and super-smooth liquid texture, which is why I use the (delicious) stuff in a can, but if you can do it, go for it (and send me your recipe!)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br /><ol><li>Heat the beans in a pan just until warm and soft.</li><li>Line an oven dish with aluminum foil and preheat your oven to 350.</li><li>One by one, prepare your enchiladas side by side in the oven dish, making sure to place them snugly; this will help hold the tortillas in place so that they don't unfold. Spread refried beans down the middle of a tortilla. Follow with a spoonful of enchilada sauce, a scoop of diced tomatoes, a sprinkle of green onions, and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll tortilla closed and repeat to make the next one.</li><li>When all the enchiladas are made and in the oven dish, pour the enchilada sauce generously over the whole lot and sprinkle cilantro and cheese on top of the sauce.</li><li>Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted. </li></ol><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Serving Suggestions</span><br />Try these accompanied by rice, salad, and fried plantains.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-29372798612643223242010-06-10T15:44:00.000-07:002010-06-10T22:23:48.657-07:00Money-Saving Laundry Tips: Quick Tips for Saving Your Cash and Your Clothes<ol><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJr8kZmGZQNM-7RM1WjdB_cy9Ynmhga6oXeUTlZmqKmUgE7Z4G9N-Fue8qfIXCDfmv_YdSbnUHfu6wv8wiKzCJzVK7j0kxIYX5wQprN4BWjUBgx47gmPaTSPlF4NgWvnLL2h7HgjWiLc/s1600/IMGP0002_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJr8kZmGZQNM-7RM1WjdB_cy9Ynmhga6oXeUTlZmqKmUgE7Z4G9N-Fue8qfIXCDfmv_YdSbnUHfu6wv8wiKzCJzVK7j0kxIYX5wQprN4BWjUBgx47gmPaTSPlF4NgWvnLL2h7HgjWiLc/s320/IMGP0002_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481381739350080290" border="0" /></a>Use less soap. Detergent makers want as much of your money as they can get. One way of accomplishing this goal is to advise you to use much more of their product than is necessary. For a large load, 1/2 cup is usually plenty. Too much detergent (often the advised amount) can actually leave your clothes <span style="font-style: italic;">less</span> clean <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> cause them unnecessary wear and tear.<br /><br /></li><li>Use cold water whenever possible. Unless your clothes are seriously soiled, cold water works just fine.<br /><br /></li><li>A little soaking goes a long way. For particularly dirty laundry or tough stains, instead of using hot water, soak the load for a couple of hours before washing. (Follow the instruction on your washing machine to load, add detergent, and fill as usual, but stop the cycle before it starts agitation.)<br /><br /></li><li>The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it will be to get out. Whatever your preferred method of stain-fighting, do it as soon as possible. Set-in stains are very difficult to get out.<br /><br /></li><li>For organic stains, such as blood, do not use hot water. Rinse immediately with cold water and wash as soon as possible. If you can't wash the item right away, soak it in a bucket of cold water and a sprinkle of soap until you can.<br /><br /></li><li>For particularly potent items (think day-old, soaked-in-sweat soccer socks), before washing, soak for at least one hour in a bucket with either a capful of bleach or 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup vinegar.<br /><br /></li><li>If you want to use fabric softener, go with dryer sheets instead of liquid softener. They're almost always much less expensive (and easier to lug home from the supermarket).<br /><br /></li><li>Line-dry your clothes whenever weather permits. Do your washing in the morning to allow for drying during the sun's most intense hours. My laundry often dries in under two hours this way. If you're like me and don't like the slightly stiff feel your clothes get drying in the sun, just pop them in the dryer for 5-10 minutes afterwards, along with a clean, damp (not wet) rag, and a dryer sheet (if desired). </li></ol>Know any other money- and/or environment-saving laundry tips? Leave them in comment below!Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-91376350626412325312010-05-24T18:19:00.000-07:002010-05-25T15:19:42.013-07:00Frugal Home Decor: Add seating and color to your patio with a DIY recycled patio bench<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLtCSkJFyEWJSAnVCjCMU6BXQH76WBD-xHmeNEmMhL__IZbKcZK7ZH-9NyueeC9O6Te8JAInmuHNXSdq5r98SKBXoGr95ChZ0K0owTp_Hn9RDJc1tlK3jfh2kKToQJuEs6i2Lk8L9phg/s1600/Nov09_27.JPG"><img style="display: block; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; float: right;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLtCSkJFyEWJSAnVCjCMU6BXQH76WBD-xHmeNEmMhL__IZbKcZK7ZH-9NyueeC9O6Te8JAInmuHNXSdq5r98SKBXoGr95ChZ0K0owTp_Hn9RDJc1tlK3jfh2kKToQJuEs6i2Lk8L9phg/s320/Nov09_27.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475335216996904418" border="0" /></a><br />We have pretty magnificent sunsets here. And there's nothing like relaxing on the porch and having a couple drinks in the evening. All we used to have for seating, though, were a couple of ugly plastic chairs, and those finally cracked and broke. So I set about gathering materials to build some deck furniture. I'm no expert carpenter, mind you, so I kept it simple for my first project: a wooden bench (cushions to come as soon as I can get by the fabric store). This is about the most simple bench you can build and it requires very few tools. It's a super quick, super easy, and super cheap, afternoon or weekend project.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFGU7s0O5HA9EB1Y_M8FsajR8J-xjJ2Q-ymJV94VEtgWG7E42EZ1LA7F-cavxIlSKES2cYu_pAR-xn0txAx6ozKDP3EDMDBgUR62AiyxSTKVAs_JqvjHxEhjC0JlUFBE8V_2KI0LnNww/s1600/IMGP0001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 99px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFGU7s0O5HA9EB1Y_M8FsajR8J-xjJ2Q-ymJV94VEtgWG7E42EZ1LA7F-cavxIlSKES2cYu_pAR-xn0txAx6ozKDP3EDMDBgUR62AiyxSTKVAs_JqvjHxEhjC0JlUFBE8V_2KI0LnNww/s320/IMGP0001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475333610735206226" border="0" /></a><br />All the materials used to build this bench were recycled, except the paint, and we got that on sale because it was already mixed. Even if you had to buy the wood, too, you'd spend less than $15.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Supplies:</span><br /><br />4 2x4s, the desired length of your bench (we got these from a neighbor who had them left over)<br />hammer and nails<br />a hand saw or circular saw<br />1/2 quart of indoor/outdoor wood paint (if you have some leftover from another project, all the better)<br />a paintbrush<br />concrete cinderblocks or other support (leveled tree stumps, upside-down metal buckets, etc.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMAqs2K2bblrCy4YW-WQ5X8P96EsrkJpBskb6GQFiVFWPxlEseAHg40hNPaRcdQl0RBJ_frxRFRBSsSkHzqKWterSwPxu53j5WdyikpDA9t_xCYwEuaMNcpMinsyhRtGzrPiRk0KphOg/s1600/May1-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMAqs2K2bblrCy4YW-WQ5X8P96EsrkJpBskb6GQFiVFWPxlEseAHg40hNPaRcdQl0RBJ_frxRFRBSsSkHzqKWterSwPxu53j5WdyikpDA9t_xCYwEuaMNcpMinsyhRtGzrPiRk0KphOg/s320/May1-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475012735370976690" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions:</span><br /><ol><li>Take one of your 2x4s and cut from it 2 11" lengths. These are the pieces that will hold the your bench seat together. Scrap the rest of that plank and keep it for another project.<br /><br /></li><li>Using an electric sander (unless you want really sore hands and arms), sand one side of the 3 long 2x4s until very smooth. Don't forget the edges and corners.<br /><br /></li><li>Prop all 3 planks, smooth side down, atop your supports (or two sawhorses, etc.) and align them carefully. Place the two shorter pieces across them at either side, 5-6 inches from the edges, and mark around them with a pencil. If you have C clamps, you can skip the pencil marking and just clamp them together.<br /><br /></li><li>Flip everything over, realign, and place one nail in the center of each long plank, aligned with the center of the short support pieces. (See image below.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8RWLZklmuERpxbDSSfNd8LKmtXC0IP9cKLdfmcq0Tq-l9ADXk2xjZbijL5dupjSolUvXz8SxyUjcYeknRf-3pF7U8HopO-WZ_jSvD2xMvKtdJMdL6q-pzwyjenIKJyP8gG1CUZ6Ugr_4/s1600/May1-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8RWLZklmuERpxbDSSfNd8LKmtXC0IP9cKLdfmcq0Tq-l9ADXk2xjZbijL5dupjSolUvXz8SxyUjcYeknRf-3pF7U8HopO-WZ_jSvD2xMvKtdJMdL6q-pzwyjenIKJyP8gG1CUZ6Ugr_4/s320/May1-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475015930157930834" border="0" /><br /><br /></a></li><li>Flip everything back over and hammer the sharp ends of the nails sideways so that they're flat against the wood.<br /><br /></li><li>Paint! Follow the directions on the can as to how long to wait between coats; you'll probably want at least 2.</li></ol>Et voila! Your new patio bench.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYh0xx1SrMXZBRrYcAS2mDn0W0eTnCLhWR_0s6Y2ej02RpQ6ax0MlBiVWfinWubDgpPD-ba1SCWff0AYIwYMCr2jYcE3ohRuaIjQoJf1SH8OS1pc9GoS_kEQmuX55PN1njkZFYU5flqLc/s1600/May1-3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYh0xx1SrMXZBRrYcAS2mDn0W0eTnCLhWR_0s6Y2ej02RpQ6ax0MlBiVWfinWubDgpPD-ba1SCWff0AYIwYMCr2jYcE3ohRuaIjQoJf1SH8OS1pc9GoS_kEQmuX55PN1njkZFYU5flqLc/s320/May1-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475012749694885426" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tip:</span> Use leftover paint to color other accent pieces on the porch or around the yard for a unified look. I used mine on some upcycled flower pots.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqvGHgxtRplBHPkae1OMTicyWBXP4llx2s34rvXKZD15UznJftB2s4lrHoMvfD8moPjICq1yc1a7ERho3rGqqjWezcD2hNSU_a0D39B2rliDni0btKdbnKB7ZIoBuuiR8HVFbjztOATo/s1600/May1-4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqvGHgxtRplBHPkae1OMTicyWBXP4llx2s34rvXKZD15UznJftB2s4lrHoMvfD8moPjICq1yc1a7ERho3rGqqjWezcD2hNSU_a0D39B2rliDni0btKdbnKB7ZIoBuuiR8HVFbjztOATo/s320/May1-4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475015938393625394" border="0" /></a>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-38805693987285239842010-05-10T05:30:00.000-07:002010-05-10T05:30:02.048-07:00Decorating/Gardening on the Cheap: Pineapple Top into Interesting Houseplant<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 500px; float: right;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1394/757809792_d6d0b8872e.jpg" alt="" border="0" />Looking for something to spice up your office or home interior? Add a little green (and sometimes pink) to your environment with a new, free houseplant. Pineapples make great houseplants; they don't attract bugs, they don't require much care, and they're incredibly easy to grow. Have a cat that chews on every plant or flower you bring into the house? No worries, the pointy, thick leaves of a pineapple plant won't interest them. And, if you treat your pineapple plant well, you may even be rewarded with a cute little (edible) baby pineapple.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here how you do it:</span><br /><br />Next time you buy a pineapple at your local grocery or farmer's market, make sure it has a nice green top. The leaves shouldn't pull out easily, and the bottom of the pineapple should smell strong and sweet. If your pineapple is still a bit green, no problem, just perch it upside down (to help it ripen evenly) in a windowsill when you get home and wait a few days for it to turn yellow. If it's just a tiny bit green, it's probably just fine to eat. An overripe pineapple is not a pretty, or tasty, thing.<br /><br />When you're ready to eat it, use a towel or garden glove to grab the whole green top and twist is gently off. Don't pull, just twist. If you're lucky, your pineapple top will already have some rootage going on, like in the photo below, or at least a row or two of root nubs.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRgPbtqPq_sqO6enim15VmisvTb3x_bH7gZvUfps_N2bCFXDB-FcqKPYU3qZdArF7-8lzlu4jnC162chFTSq-dMsc1ez1gVkDl3QsLjBHkRz4051ro_Wj2jBzkjiYH-UB2LSCQUSnNwA/s1600/April-home21.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRgPbtqPq_sqO6enim15VmisvTb3x_bH7gZvUfps_N2bCFXDB-FcqKPYU3qZdArF7-8lzlu4jnC162chFTSq-dMsc1ez1gVkDl3QsLjBHkRz4051ro_Wj2jBzkjiYH-UB2LSCQUSnNwA/s320/April-home21.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469284226479851890" border="0" /></a><br />Then, cut off the little bit of fruit left on the stump with a knife and, starting with the lowest set of leaves (usually brown and dried), rip off the several bottommost rows of leaves until your pineapple plant will sit nicely in a jar of water with the stump immersed. Set your new plant and its jar in a window (it doesn't have to be very sunny) and wait. In a week or two, your new little friend should have enough roots to plant in a pot, or even directly in the ground.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31X8Phq2bJ_kO4OqTUwEQky86L_QODLsfyhyphenhyphenAWfQyQ6MYNf5csfKDCiGQnKGXv8JKcq-KMyp2Gwt33Jj9LMMRZS-FnsXnFAfbaiVEJTnrKmx1dQeXO_Pm2MFVQlx353mApB4Tb6NU4yc/s1600/April-home19.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31X8Phq2bJ_kO4OqTUwEQky86L_QODLsfyhyphenhyphenAWfQyQ6MYNf5csfKDCiGQnKGXv8JKcq-KMyp2Gwt33Jj9LMMRZS-FnsXnFAfbaiVEJTnrKmx1dQeXO_Pm2MFVQlx353mApB4Tb6NU4yc/s320/April-home19.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469284210599648402" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Pineapple #1 after a few days in water on the windowsill.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Vs1qsNRST7i-h2uYeSNEx2RccaXmZVmkJd8RgQe4fVI2LwTx5-xFw4hXkZkaK3YSeHsVOXbQUqJyrnGLmtx7LvTvcmcoiWEHz2Rn9aNrxQmXmUmbI6OWJNkpr8pV2F9-eZrnqg7NNwg/s1600/April-home20.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Vs1qsNRST7i-h2uYeSNEx2RccaXmZVmkJd8RgQe4fVI2LwTx5-xFw4hXkZkaK3YSeHsVOXbQUqJyrnGLmtx7LvTvcmcoiWEHz2Rn9aNrxQmXmUmbI6OWJNkpr8pV2F9-eZrnqg7NNwg/s320/April-home20.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469284220938734130" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Pineapple #2 after a few days in water on the windowsill.</span><br /><br /></div>If you live in a tropical or near-tropical locale, and you can plant your pineapple in the ground rather than in a pot—just be aware that these plants get extremely large when allowed to do so, and will take up a lot of space in your yard. They do, however, take kindly to being trimmed, but in my opinion they don't look as nice that way.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcpTk0qb8wgh2yqwxvkcTa_FYlPXN5Ty57b-BCnn8EXyuh6X18-NhlPPt_3fzRl3FfhSqdqSiw0rnSeoabUJ1s7IAznkMkM9FzWIGAdGvge3TcwMCMhHf9M9GdjbDhWBZjbp5MbRhhwE/s1600/April-home18.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcpTk0qb8wgh2yqwxvkcTa_FYlPXN5Ty57b-BCnn8EXyuh6X18-NhlPPt_3fzRl3FfhSqdqSiw0rnSeoabUJ1s7IAznkMkM9FzWIGAdGvge3TcwMCMhHf9M9GdjbDhWBZjbp5MbRhhwE/s320/April-home18.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469284201190017346" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">We eat a lot of fresh pineapple around here.<br /></span></div><br />Once your little friend has established an inch or so of roots all around, he's ready to be planted. You can use potting soil, but mine did fine in just regular dirt. You can start with a little 6" pot, like I have and repot as it grows, or you can put it directly in a larger pot (20" or so ought to do it) so you won't have to move it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhREz6w08VtNczpAqhMpq8XLaGp4KF2qdYfAluwac4sqYrrGupdOUE7YRVx5yB_zABm1UyUcdVf1SDsa3GD_IhZ9SCZoGfTMLxsIsO488-1io9yEMjuDrXoD5vRj4erZiW8-u7luniQ0s4/s1600/April-home6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhREz6w08VtNczpAqhMpq8XLaGp4KF2qdYfAluwac4sqYrrGupdOUE7YRVx5yB_zABm1UyUcdVf1SDsa3GD_IhZ9SCZoGfTMLxsIsO488-1io9yEMjuDrXoD5vRj4erZiW8-u7luniQ0s4/s320/April-home6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469294837562404722" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Newly potted pineapple (along with newly potted orange and lime trees).<br /></span></div><br />Pineapple plants like full sun to partial shade, warm weather, and moderate watering. Keep the soil moist, but don't overwater. If you live in an area that gets cool, bring your potted pineapple inside when it starts to get cold, way before any danger of frost. Pineapples are hardy, but they <span style="font-style: italic;">are</span> tropical plants.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICJk3D34IUo-8z-WlOM7ARtUaPfoUnUzRl6LhFNtGOKbHuY5-42zIDm5A4ClXv61Pobj-uLGI5x4H_DVcZt_6Aq8iAFbLUPGTNyxDjg4fQVj0JzCHdq1c-A-DN0W_FKs4sSAg0omIJ1E/s1600/April-home22.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICJk3D34IUo-8z-WlOM7ARtUaPfoUnUzRl6LhFNtGOKbHuY5-42zIDm5A4ClXv61Pobj-uLGI5x4H_DVcZt_6Aq8iAFbLUPGTNyxDjg4fQVj0JzCHdq1c-A-DN0W_FKs4sSAg0omIJ1E/s320/April-home22.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469284237398551186" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">First pineapple in the ground, just planted.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVi482XcwUBNRpfViNK6KiGQ6JyQleCeSacYWQyNSE-stGb15Kc70qFgb_Yb1cwa72VtsVWrpWYIBMT_0UpzUqyUEzXJOOlm5d9DApnZWj22hmawWao3xgkyGwOco5JUu8TH6lk-yOoOM/s1600/May-garden3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVi482XcwUBNRpfViNK6KiGQ6JyQleCeSacYWQyNSE-stGb15Kc70qFgb_Yb1cwa72VtsVWrpWYIBMT_0UpzUqyUEzXJOOlm5d9DApnZWj22hmawWao3xgkyGwOco5JUu8TH6lk-yOoOM/s320/May-garden3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469294830706805058" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">First pineapple (front) still doing well, now accompanied by four others (along with some rosemary and wild chayote).</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">I now have one pineapple plant in a little pot and six lining the fence in my backyard. I have to choose wisely what I plant along this fence because there are often cows grazing on the other side of it. I'm fairly confident they won't want to chomp on sharp, slightly serrated pineapple leaves, and tiny, needle-like rosemary leaves, but the chayote I'm not sure about. But it just popped up there, so there's no point in pulling it out.<br /><br />Pineapple plants take at least a year, usually two, to bear fruit, so be patient. In the meantime, your living space will benefit from your pretty new houseplant and some extra, freshly created oxygen.<br /></div></div>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-73888754425386616272010-03-08T05:00:00.000-08:002010-03-08T05:00:14.174-08:00Carnival of Money Stories 2: Disaster IssueWelcome to the March 8, 2010 edition of carnival of money stories 2. I've decided to go with the disaster theme based on the content of some of the posts submitted, most insignificantly but amusingly, Jim's (at Blueprint for Financial Prosperity) which revolves somewhat around the apparently impending zombie invasion.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >Editor's Choice</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Usually picking the editor's choice articles is challenging, but this week one article stood out so much (inspiring, refreshing, and well-written) that I have no choice but to give it the number one spot. I don't know where Baker found her, but I'm glad he did. You should take a look at her own blog/site while you're at it:<br /><br /></span><b>Baker</b> presents a guest blog by Carmen <a href="http://manvsdebt.com/ways-to-raise-frugal-kids/">8 Effective Ways to Raise Frugal Kids</a> posted at <a href="http://manvsdebt.com/">Man Vs. Debt</a>, saying, "Follow these 8 simple, but effective tips to buck the consumerist trend and raise frugal kids!"<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span>However, the prize for most humorous comments goes to....<b> jim</b> at <a href="http://www.bargaineering.com/articles">Blueprint for Financial Prosperity </a>for his post <a href="http://www.bargaineering.com/articles/best-places-to-hide-money-at-home.html">Best Places to Hide Money At Home</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCP5RJEXMQTQvqAllyROa8oxbmmzEmtndVeP2yGGxf_TZJ8mnMYz6842WuSmy9n0f3WVm_IPJ-2K-D9FNb50QDcRNH2f83DFbt8MJy6v8arEhZ07TSCHEoA6XltWflHHTN7YCxKk5lzs/s400/zombies.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 360px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCP5RJEXMQTQvqAllyROa8oxbmmzEmtndVeP2yGGxf_TZJ8mnMYz6842WuSmy9n0f3WVm_IPJ-2K-D9FNb50QDcRNH2f83DFbt8MJy6v8arEhZ07TSCHEoA6XltWflHHTN7YCxKk5lzs/s400/zombies.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And I'd like to highlight <b>CreditCardAssist's </b>post on <a href="http://www.creditcardassist.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-donate-to-relief-organizations/">How to Donate to Relief Organizations</a> simply because the world could use more good samaritans.<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><!-- Carnival Submission --><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >Business</span> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Ryan @ Cash Money Life</b> presents <a href="http://cashmoneylife.com/2010/03/04/how-to-organize-your-small-business-finances/">How to Organize Small Business Finances</a> posted at <a href="http://cashmoneylife.com/">Cash Money Life</a>, saying, "Tips on how to organize your small business finances, including how to separate your personal and business income, use business checking and savings, accounting software, and more. Essential reading for small business owners and freelancers!" </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>FMF</b> presents <a href="http://www.freemoneyfinance.com/2010/02/office-depots-strange-way-of-applying-coupons.html">Office Depot's Strange Way of Applying Coupons</a> posted at <a href="http://www.freemoneyfinance.com/">Free Money Finance</a>, saying, "My unusual experience with Office Depot." </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>BWL</b> presents <a href="http://www.christianpf.com/3-mistakes-to-avoid-if-youre-self-employed/">3 Mistakes to Avoid if You're Self-Employed</a> posted at <a href="http://christianpf.com/">Christian Personal Finance</a>, saying, "Whether you’ve decided to turn your blog into a business, sell a multi-level marketing product or rent a storefront to start selling your homemade jewelry there are some mistakes you will definitely want to avoid…"<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.pyzam.com/img/funnypics/misc/media-turns-on-bush.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 440px; height: 330px;" src="http://static.pyzam.com/img/funnypics/misc/media-turns-on-bush.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p><h2>Investing</h2> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Adam</b> presents <a href="http://magicalpenny.com/save-money-and-friends/">Don't Act your Age: How to Keep Saving and Keep your Friends</a> posted at <a href="http://magicalpenny.com/">Magical Penny</a>, saying, "Some people begin investing because they think they should, but they haven't fully worked out the right amount to invest. They could easily get discouraged by friends or by other needs if they haven't budgeted correctly. This article is full of points to help maintain your resolve; to not act like most other young people; to show respect to your pennies in the present for a better future tomorrow (and so you don’t have to rely on the lottery in your old-er age)." </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Silicon Valley Blogger</b> presents <a href="http://www.thedigeratilife.com/blog/best-ways-to-invest-money/">Best Ways To Invest Small Amounts of Money</a> posted at <a href="http://www.thedigeratilife.com/blog">The Digerati Life</a>, saying, "Some of my personal stories and examples of how I've been able to make my money grow with only small outlays towards various investments." </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>The Dough Roller</b> presents <a href="http://www.doughroller.net/investing/open-scottrade-brokerage-account-online/">How to Open a Scottrade Brokerage Account Online</a> posted at <a href="http://doughroller.net/">The Dough Roller</a>. </p><p><br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.hccfl.edu/pollock/images/Dilbert.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 475px; height: 421px;" src="http://www.hccfl.edu/pollock/images/Dilbert.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p> <h2><br /></h2><h2>Other</h2> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Money Beagle</b> presents <a href="http://www.moneybeagle.com/2010/02/i-love-when-free-money-fairy-stops-by.html">I Love When The Free Money Fairy Stops By</a> posted at <a href="http://www.moneybeagle.com/">Money Beagle</a>. </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Craig Ford</b> presents <a href="http://www.moneyhelpforchristians.com/how-to-afford-to-be-a-stay-at-home-wife-and-mom/">How to Afford to be a Stay at Home Wife or Mom</a> posted at <a href="http://www.moneyhelpforchristians.com/">Money Help For Christians</a>, saying, "Outlines a step by step plan for couples who want to live off one income." </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Jeff Rose</b> presents <a href="http://www.goodfinancialcents.com/what-happens-when-term-life-insurance-policy-lapses/">What Happens When a Life Insurance Policy Lapses</a> posted at <a href="http://www.goodfinancialcents.com/">Jeff Rose</a>. </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>me in millions</b> presents <a href="http://meinmillions.blogspot.com/2010/02/moneytalk-class-3-planning-for-future.html">Moneytalk Class #3: Planning for Future Life Events</a> posted at <a href="http://meinmillions.blogspot.com/">me in millions</a>, saying, "As a twenty something, I never really gave much thought to end of life issues. I just took a class and this is what I learned." </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>2 Cents</b> presents <a href="http://balancejunkie.com/2010/03/05/financial-literacy-is-like-green-eggs-and-ham/">Financial Literacy Is Like Green Eggs and Ham</a> posted at <a href="http://balancejunkie.com/">Balance Junkie</a>, saying, "This article looks at some good reasons to become more financially literate and encourages us, like Sam I Am, to try it!" </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>Sun</b> presents <a href="http://www.thesunsfinancialdiary.com/personal-finance/turbotax-2010-premier-review/">TurboTax 2010 Has Some Nice New Features</a> posted at <a href="http://www.thesunsfinancialdiary.com/">The Sun’s Financial Diary</a>. </p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> <b>The Smarter Wallet</b> presents <a href="http://thesmarterwallet.com/2008/the-truth-about-bank-fees-what-your-bank-may-be-hiding-hidden-fees/">The Truth About Bank Fees: What Your Bank May Be Hiding</a> posted at <a href="http://thesmarterwallet.com/">The Smarter Wallet</a>, saying, "On banking matters."</p><p><br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf8y4ghkYb21qpOQ1zHzh6XTeiftjmT6DMNNSEzJdDYsrSvOFvfO0Wn-0AFKOrNCzlVlpbh0ddRy12HueGriXfK2Cdfn_E5z-qxXVifKxKD8HMrmiQMzDtDlhAYYA84QILTxRSMdgVzzA/s1600-h/Sarah+Palin+Bible+Expert.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf8y4ghkYb21qpOQ1zHzh6XTeiftjmT6DMNNSEzJdDYsrSvOFvfO0Wn-0AFKOrNCzlVlpbh0ddRy12HueGriXfK2Cdfn_E5z-qxXVifKxKD8HMrmiQMzDtDlhAYYA84QILTxRSMdgVzzA/s320/Sarah+Palin+Bible+Expert.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446077121170798786" border="0" /></a></p> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --><h2>Shopping</h2> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <!-- Carnival Submission --> <p> For the ocularly challenged among us, <b>Tom @ Canadian Finance Blog</b> presents <a href="http://canadianfinanceblog.com/2010/03/03/how-i-got-8-glasses.htm">How I Got $8 Glasses</a> posted at <a href="http://canadianfinanceblog.com/">The Canadian Finance Blog</a>, saying, "Alan lets us know how he was able to get new glasses for only $8!" </p> <!-- EDIT THIS: the conclusion begins with this paragraph: --> <p><br /></p><p>And just because I can:</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivyWJJ5RZeUVYvL-iopQku-lTZNM1_tMwyREYnUjsEBysvsWoQqdKgPev-aOjPX3xailIo5dbkSQfgGh4n8nTR6vunwgMhxiTvLOxJLum1Jl8WQIKgf2l1RC6ELmRuWx1hLHCXwJtkcGI/s1600-h/Sarah+Palin+From+My+House.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivyWJJ5RZeUVYvL-iopQku-lTZNM1_tMwyREYnUjsEBysvsWoQqdKgPev-aOjPX3xailIo5dbkSQfgGh4n8nTR6vunwgMhxiTvLOxJLum1Jl8WQIKgf2l1RC6ELmRuWx1hLHCXwJtkcGI/s320/Sarah+Palin+From+My+House.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446077761458920962" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p>I'd take zombies over that any day. Aaaaand that concludes this edition. Hope you enjoyed it. Submit your blog article to the next edition of <b>Carnival of Money Stories 2</b> using our <a target="_blank" title="Submit an entry to “carnival of money stories 2”" href="http://blogcarnival.com/bc/submit_7067.html">carnival submission form</a>. Past posts and future hosts can be found on our <a target="_blank" title="Blog Carnival index for “carnival of money stories 2”" href="http://blogcarnival.com/bc/cprof_7067.html"> blog carnival index page</a>.</p>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-10126849811139823102010-01-06T13:10:00.000-08:002010-01-08T07:27:01.807-08:00Pet Food: Save Money (and your pet's health) by Preparing Your Own<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://pad.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Cat_eating_58.jpg/200px-Cat_eating_58.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 149px;" src="http://pad.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Cat_eating_58.jpg/200px-Cat_eating_58.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />For years our cats were accustomed to eating the rather expensive <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nutro_Products" title="Nutro Products" rel="wikipedia">Nutro</a> brand dry cat food. But after moving to a small town, we found it quite difficult to find dry food for our cats, period, let alone <span style="font-style: italic;">good </span>food that doesn't contain animal meal, <span>by-products</span>, or tons of corn and other grain fillers that cats don't need in their diets.<br /><br />Turns out the unavailability of cat food here has been a blessing in disguise.<br /><br />First we gradually switched them from their regular dry food to canned tuna, but after some research found that an all-tuna diet, especially canned tuna prepared for human consumption, can be unhealthy for cats over time.<sup>1</sup> Since the dry food we have access to isn't good for them and feeding them tuna all the time isn't either, we were back to the drawing board. After some more research we decided to switch our cats to a raw diet—well, partly raw. We now feed them either small chunks of raw chicken or boiled fish (boiled because still more research showed that raw fish may be unhealthy for cats<sup>2</sup>. The jury seems to be out on that claim, however, as many raw feeding advocates seem to think raw fish is just fine.<sup>3</sup><br /><br />The new diet has been a great decision for us and for the cats. They've been on their new diet for about three months now, and they're clearly thriving. Their coats are shinier, they have tons of energy, and Esmie's little dandruff problem has completely cleared up, all on its own. We now save on the exorbitant price of high-end (read: barely <span>decent</span>) cat food—our old dry cat food of choice costs around $14 for a 4-pound bag and contains a large amount of unnecessary grain filler.<sup>4</sup> Best of all, the cats love their new meals so much more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What We Buy</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">How We Buy</span><br />Our local fishmonger sells fish scraps for about $1.50 a kilo (68 cents a pound). Try asking for leftovers or scraps from your fish retailer or at the seafood section in your supermarket. They may not be as cheap as they are here in Costa Rica, but they'll be much cheaper than, for instance, fillets. Be aware, however, that very large fish such as tuna, salmon, tilefish, and king mackerel may contain high levels of mercury and other dangerous toxins since they are at the top of the fishy food chain.<br /><br />Chicken <span>gizzards</span> and "cuts" also run cheap. Here, the gizzards (or "extras": liver, heart, and other organs) also go for about $1.5o a kilo (68 cents a pound), while the "cuts" (pieces of wings, legs, and thighs) are about $3 a kilo ($1.36 a pound). You should be able to find these for cheap at any butcher shop.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Preparation</span><br />Our cats seem to prefer the chicken livers and hearts, but it's often worth it to me spend the extra $1.50 to avoid juggling those slippery organs. As for preparation, I cut off all the meat from the bones, separate the pile of meat into small meal-sized piles, and then package and freeze the meals individually. Upon butchering, I discard the bones or give the cats a large bone each as a snack (and as a reward for controlling themselves while I handle all that delicious raw meat in front of them). Each day we thaw a meal for breakfast and one for dinner. We never freeze or cook the bones; we've learned these can both cause them to splinter easily, which could create a choking hazard.<sup>5</sup><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Savings</span><br />For our cats, each kilo of chicken or fish meat yields roughly 10 meals, about 1/2 cup per meal. So if we feed the cats fish or chicken gizzards, we spend about 15 cents per meal, and if we feed them chicken cuts, we spend about 30 cents per meal. We rotate the three types of meat on a fairly regular basis, so the average price per meal is about 20 cents.<br /><br />Compare that to the cost of our old Nutro brand kibble—about 60 cents per meal, according to <a href="http://www.nutroproducts.com/ncccdry-adult.shtml#feeding">their suggested serving size</a>—and we're saving quite a bit of money: 40 (depending on the type of meat) per meal, which comes out to nearly <span style="font-weight: bold;">$25 a month per cat</span>. I don't know about you, but saving $50 a month with little hassle and added health benefits for them sounds pretty cool to me.<br /><br /><br /><br />Questions or thoughts about feeding raw or savings money on pet food? Leave us a comment!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Notes</span><br /><ol><li>According to PetEducation.com, a website of veterinarians Drs. Foster and Smith, "large amounts [of canned tuna formulated for human consumption] can cause <span class="dic"><a href="javascript:popupWin1('/dictionary_term.cfm?term=malnutrition',%2050,%2050,%20350,%20300)" style="cursor: help;">malnutrition</a></span>, since it lacks proper levels of vitamins and minerals." <a href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=1&aid=1029">http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=1&aid=1029</a><br />An article on Australia's CatWorld.com also cites human-grade canned tuna as a cause of yellow fat disease or steatitis. <a href="http://www.cat-world.com.au/steatitis-yellow-fat-disease-in-cats">http://www.cat-world.com.au/steatitis-yellow-fat-disease-in-cats</a><br /></li><li>The same article from PetEducation.com lists raw fish as dangerous for cats because it "can result in a <a href="http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1400&articleid=711">thiamine (a B vitamin)</a> deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. More common if raw fish is fed regularly." See also the article <a href="http://catnutrition.wordpress.com/2007/09/22/eight-strikes-against-fishy-feeding-for-cats/">"Eight strikes against fishy feeding"</a> at the Cat Nutrition Blog.<br /></li><li>See for instance RawFedCats.org's <a href="http://rawfedcats.org/practicalguide.htm">"Practical Guide."</a> <a href="http://www.provet.co.uk/petfacts/healthtips/rawfish.htm">ProVet.co.uk</a> also considers fish to be "a good raw ingredient to incorporate into cat foods," but concedes that it "has certain draw backs."<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.nutroproducts.com/ncccdry-adult.shtml#ingredients">Nutro Natural Choice Complete Care Ingredient List</a> </li><li>See <a href="http://www.rawmeatybones.com/faq.php#CookedBones">http://www.rawmeatybones.com/faq.php#CookedBones</a> and <a href="http://www.rawfed.com/myths/bones.html">http://www.rawfed.com/myths/bones.html</a><br /></li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Additional References and Resources</span><br /><ol><li><a href="http://www.homevet.com/petcare/foodbook.html">Excerpt from "Food Pets Die For: Shocking Facts About Pet Food."</a> Ann N. Martin. NewSage Press (1997). Website of Jeff Feinman, VMD. </li><li><a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/012647.html">"The true horrors of pet food revealed: Prepare to be shocked by what goes into dog food and cat food."</a> Jessica Smith. NaturalNews.com<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.preciouspets.org/truth.htm">"What's Really for Dinner? The Truth About Commercial Pet Food"</a> Tina Perry, Animal Protection Institute. Reprinted from The Animals' Agenda Nov/Dec 1996.<br /></li><li><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.bornfreeusa.org/facts.php?p=359&more=1">"What’s Really in Pet Food"</a> Born Free USA united with Animal Protection Institute. May 2007. An incredibly informative, thorough, and well-cited article.</li><li><a href="http://www.littlebigcat.com/index.php?action=library&act=show&item=petfoodregulation">"Pet Food Regulation"</a> Jean Hofve, DVM. <span style="font-style: italic;">The Whole Dog Journal </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">Little Big Cat</span>.<br /></li><li><a href="http://rawfedcats.org/">RawFedCats.org</a></li><li><a href="http://rawfeddogs.net/">RawFedDogs.net</a></li><li><a href="http://rawlearning.com/">RawLearning.com</a></li><li><a href="http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/rawcat/">Yahoo Raw Feeding Group<br /></a></li><li><a href="http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/rawcat/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Yahoo Raw Fed Cat Group</span></a><br /></li></ol>mdtrudeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13157719375672087259noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-67403326651380281612009-12-28T15:03:00.000-08:002010-01-05T18:37:34.652-08:00No-Bake Cookie Twofer: Oatmeal Dark Chocolate Cookies and Coconut Bon-Bons<p class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 310px; text-align: right;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Christmas_Cookies_Plateful.JPG"><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/71/Christmas_Cookies_Plateful.JPG/300px-Christmas_Cookies_Plateful.JPG" alt="Plateful of Christmas Cookies" style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="300" height="225" /></a><span class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size:78%;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Christmas_Cookies_Plateful.JPG">Wikipedia</a></span></p>I hate to cook, but I quite like to bake. This really doesn't work out well for me because we don't have an oven here in Costa Rica. What's a girl to do for delicious baked goods during the holidays without an oven? Buy them at the local bakery? Nope. The bakeries here don't make anything good (in my opinion) besides doughnuts and whole cakes; everything else is dry and brittle, full of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogenation" title="Hydrogenation" rel="wikipedia">hydrogenated oils</a> (<a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trans_fat" title="Trans fat" rel="wikipedia">trans fats</a>), and/or tasteless. Costa Ricans also seem to be generally confused about chocolate; for some reason they think it's supposed to be made with shortening and have no taste of cocoa whatsoever. The result is much like the oily and rubber-like "icing" top on a Hostess cupcake. No thank you.<br /><br />My solution to the no-oven dilemma? No-bake cookies! That's right, cookies made entirely on the stovetop. Quick, easy, delicious.<br /><br />These first cookies, I'll admit, don't look that great, but they *do* taste good. A variation that I tried with half the batch is to roll them into balls instead of just plopping them onto the wax paper. Let them chill in the fridge an hour or two and then roll them in powdered sugar, so they end up looking like doughnut holes. The result is a much prettier, still tasty cookie that looks nice when paired with the bon-bons in the following recipe. Almost like I planned them to go together.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dark Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsexhNe66o8Cuqvux_VJBdb6YtONRd2u8QszyFl0i1PvmU0VdUOq4h9dnhe8bio-S70Jyngq4XJ6ue9wWRxU2G4goAErY53VFwjOFzHAujxhqFrjIET-7P4QJxxH1Gl4priIO-tQFWkNg/s1600-h/cookies2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsexhNe66o8Cuqvux_VJBdb6YtONRd2u8QszyFl0i1PvmU0VdUOq4h9dnhe8bio-S70Jyngq4XJ6ue9wWRxU2G4goAErY53VFwjOFzHAujxhqFrjIET-7P4QJxxH1Gl4priIO-tQFWkNg/s320/cookies2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420449971688116178" border="0" /></a><div style="padding-left: 20px; color: BLACK;">2 cups sugar<br />1 stick butter (1/2 cup)<br />1/2 cup evaporated milk<br />1 tsp vanilla<br />2 1/2 Tbs cocoa<br />1/2 cup peanut butter (optional but recommended)<br />3 cups rolled oats (or sub rice krispies cereal)<br />1 cup powdered sugar (optional)<br /><br /><br /></div><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br /><ol><li>Combine all ingredients except peanut butter and oats in an medium-size pot and cook over medium heat. Bring to a boil.<br /></li><li>Let boil for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.</li><li>Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and oats.</li><li>Spoon out quickly onto wax paper or aluminum foil.</li><li>(optional) Refrigerate for 20 minutes to an hour, then roll into balls and coat with powdered sugar.<br /></li><li>Cookies will harden as they set.</li></ol><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Coconut Bon-Bons</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.instructables.com/files/deriv/F26/ZNHJ/FR123DO8/F26ZNHJFR123DO8.MEDIUM.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="http://www.instructables.com/files/deriv/F26/ZNHJ/FR123DO8/F26ZNHJFR123DO8.MEDIUM.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />1 (15 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk<br />1/2 cup butter margarine<br />2 1/2 cups sugar (powdered works best, but either will do.)<br />1 (12 ounce) package shredded coconut<br />1 cup cocoa powder<br />1/2 cup whole milk/cream/condensed milk<br />1 cup crumbled or ground peanuts<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions<br /></span><ol><li>Mix together condensed milk, butter, 2 cups sugar, and coconut. Cover with wax paper and chill for 24 hours. </li><li>In medium-sized saucepan, combine cocoa powder, milk, and remaining 1/2 cup sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool 20 minutes.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelIbKVoLB-4WWxhDLz9kDtQdTZmSJobfR8oncqMApwhUvBi-eqyywj4xKlkcGnywQsKNoREwGIAxPKxv9ioanWwYIeuNAdKqok_W5dMHSfd5AYXaDz1AQ3t3KO6HkmGkTtteJb1Wo_Fg/s1600-h/cookies4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelIbKVoLB-4WWxhDLz9kDtQdTZmSJobfR8oncqMApwhUvBi-eqyywj4xKlkcGnywQsKNoREwGIAxPKxv9ioanWwYIeuNAdKqok_W5dMHSfd5AYXaDz1AQ3t3KO6HkmGkTtteJb1Wo_Fg/s320/cookies4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420449982076184466" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div></li><li>Roll coconut mixture into 3/4-inch balls and dip into chocolate. </li><li>(optional) Roll in nuts.<br /></li><li>Place on wax paper to cool and dry.<br /></li></ol><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJedTLdrr5bE50MDkT0TuOrDQmAp4-o5pUQeKIT9kagT-lE8I_i-SV8lSC9tXt0w7cXpsDk0LVy_1sWmx78BmNGeYgJ5l5UIfxFL8-WHFWHlKG9FmcbfXqxHuUv1EJRXqjtHxAgg6rj8/s1600-h/cookies6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJedTLdrr5bE50MDkT0TuOrDQmAp4-o5pUQeKIT9kagT-lE8I_i-SV8lSC9tXt0w7cXpsDk0LVy_1sWmx78BmNGeYgJ5l5UIfxFL8-WHFWHlKG9FmcbfXqxHuUv1EJRXqjtHxAgg6rj8/s320/cookies6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420452354438678546" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Serving suggestion</span>: Ever had frozen bon-bons? These are better; I guarantee it. Freeze them. You'll thank me. There's a reason there's only 1 left.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7lRGnOH3ARe7Lu7oH57dubstDMlcyUXHWljhv8W7bloXAkXxcHtvemCe12m7Al4gkBCcXgxMtGniEkz1ue5Wd3tKuZ9jMRXHfKDsTCRJTKJz7mghfjBeg5Pi9tP3vIuwYDd5yTweRBs/s1600-h/dec09-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7lRGnOH3ARe7Lu7oH57dubstDMlcyUXHWljhv8W7bloXAkXxcHtvemCe12m7Al4gkBCcXgxMtGniEkz1ue5Wd3tKuZ9jMRXHfKDsTCRJTKJz7mghfjBeg5Pi9tP3vIuwYDd5yTweRBs/s320/dec09-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421072054214445970" border="0" /></a>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-32171770375456412622009-12-21T19:33:00.000-08:002010-01-05T18:41:49.161-08:00Give Homemade, Wrap Homemade: How to create your own festive and frugal wrapping paper, gift bags, and gift boxes.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGxDyKQGP4R2a7t4mQPrQZkjTlhrgmh162wHPOKZ_bI82OwPMI7Y1VCQswkoOtlTxSP1Pk-Hq4x4yLGubzO7uWP767dKKoRm3giwQhec_Vw0zugU8y8AKBIfTPG_hUHwNDXRIoWgcRk-2/s400/Magazine-bow-finished.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGxDyKQGP4R2a7t4mQPrQZkjTlhrgmh162wHPOKZ_bI82OwPMI7Y1VCQswkoOtlTxSP1Pk-Hq4x4yLGubzO7uWP767dKKoRm3giwQhec_Vw0zugU8y8AKBIfTPG_hUHwNDXRIoWgcRk-2/s400/Magazine-bow-finished.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Since we've dedicated the last several posts to <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/12/homemade-holiday-gift-and-decoration.html">homemade and frugal gifts</a>, it's only fitting that we now share homemade and frugal ways to wrap those gifts. There's no use worrying about saving money on gifts and then spending the money you saved just to wrap them, right? So here are some ideas for cheap, cute, thoughtful giftwrap.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make your own wrapping paper</span><br />Turn paper grocery bags into functional works of art. Use them plain and dress them with pretty ribbon or colored twine or get creative and decorate the paper with paint, crayons, or colored pencils.<a href="http://creativejewishmom.typepad.com/.a/6a011570601a80970b0120a6ab2372970c-800wi"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 168px;" src="http://creativejewishmom.typepad.com/.a/6a011570601a80970b0120a6ab2372970c-800wi" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If you're making paper for more than one gift, chances are you'll want to mass-produce to save time. This is where the stamps come in. Use rubber stamps and ink, X-mas cookie cutters with paint or make your designs by carving some potato stamps. If you've got kids, give them some finger paint or crayons and let them go to town. This is a great opportunity to involve them in the giving process.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3154/2610145821_c3d2bed853.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 220px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3154/2610145821_c3d2bed853.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />If you don't have paper grocery bags lying around, art and school supply stores offer economically priced brown or white butcher paper on large rolls. No paint around? Dying with coffee or tea can give some surprisingly classy-looking results. I especially like the vintage-y combo of coffee or tea-dyed newspaper.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Alternate Wrappings</span><br />Don't have the time to make your own wrapping paper? Or perhaps you're not feeling very artistic? No problem. Try wrapping gifts with other spare items such as:<ul><li>scrap fabric<p class="zemanta-img zemanta-action-dragged" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 235px; text-align: right;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Traditional_Japanese_wrapping_cloth%2Churoshiki%2Ckatori-city%2Cjapan.JPG"><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/79/Traditional_Japanese_wrapping_cloth%2Churoshiki%2Ckatori-city%2Cjapan.JPG/300px-Traditional_Japanese_wrapping_cloth%2Churoshiki%2Ckatori-city%2Cjapan.JPG" alt="Traditional Japanese wrapping cloth,furoshiki,..." style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="225" height="175" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><span class="zemanta-img-attribution">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Traditional_Japanese_wrapping_cloth%2Churoshiki%2Ckatori-city%2Cjapan.JPG">Wikipedia</a></span></span></p></li><li>maps (if you don't have a bunch of old ones lying around like I do, you can pick them up from your local tourist information office for free)</li><li>old newspapers or comics</li><li>children's artwork</li><li>magazine pages—choose festive spreads or be clever and pick pages that hint at the recipient's interests or even the gift itself</li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Boxes, Bags, and More</span><br />Need something to protect your gift before you wrap it? Try one of these before you pay for a gift bag. (If you must buy gift bags, hit up the dollar store first; they usually offer them for 1/4 what regular stores charge.)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnt83kqfl9RNza0yJgQl8TC2XSC6YXQfRHfj_sHCV_F2czrZO2wXFyxgV5s5e1lS1cSy6_aWOEGlv9RhBdT9JGaDerhXaW4C0Mgqxw112Wwt_El067pWpXW2UkG6ncCf2Pv9Fb6VkEHYM/s1600-h/gifts_jar_soup_cookies_muffins.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnt83kqfl9RNza0yJgQl8TC2XSC6YXQfRHfj_sHCV_F2czrZO2wXFyxgV5s5e1lS1cSy6_aWOEGlv9RhBdT9JGaDerhXaW4C0Mgqxw112Wwt_El067pWpXW2UkG6ncCf2Pv9Fb6VkEHYM/s320/gifts_jar_soup_cookies_muffins.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417914732926394306" border="0" /></a><ul><li>shoeboxes</li><li>coffee cans</li><li>oatmeal canisters<br /></li><li>baskets</li><li>glass jars</li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnt83kqfl9RNza0yJgQl8TC2XSC6YXQfRHfj_sHCV_F2czrZO2wXFyxgV5s5e1lS1cSy6_aWOEGlv9RhBdT9JGaDerhXaW4C0Mgqxw112Wwt_El067pWpXW2UkG6ncCf2Pv9Fb6VkEHYM/s1600-h/gifts_jar_soup_cookies_muffins.jpg"></a><li>check out <a href="http://frugalliving.about.com/od/christmas/ht/DIY_Gift_Boxes.htm">this tutorial</a> about how to turn a cereal box inside out for a frugal, eco-friendly gift box<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzwXjQuotv3SHizMbfmx6LRmuZaRoyNkgu7s7Mp4p1tu2WGoGRcOG64lRwf1ER-64XAXFI5lwrMnjXMWkwOXA55QKNIlDFI5CuwyozH90du9AkAwClcqbIy_B8Gzl4BA0NIVA5UN_k9U/s1600-h/paper+bag+tags.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzwXjQuotv3SHizMbfmx6LRmuZaRoyNkgu7s7Mp4p1tu2WGoGRcOG64lRwf1ER-64XAXFI5lwrMnjXMWkwOXA55QKNIlDFI5CuwyozH90du9AkAwClcqbIy_B8Gzl4BA0NIVA5UN_k9U/s320/paper+bag+tags.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417914961242518818" border="0" /></a><br />Hole punch, add ribbon, et voila!<br /><ul><li>scrap cardboard from food boxes</li><li>scraps leftover from grocery bags or wrapping paper </li><li>cards from old board games</li><li>playing cards</li><li>last year's Christmas cards</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bows/Gift-toppers</span><br /><ul><li>old hair ribbons, bandannas, or scarves </li><li>scrap fabric or ribbon</li><li>Christmas ornament (<a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/12/homemade-holiday-gift-and-decoration.html">homemade</a> or otherwise)<br /></li><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2093/2072180535_cd7dfa631f.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 224px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2093/2072180535_cd7dfa631f.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a></li><li>for children: spare GI Joes, Polly Pockets, or other small toys</li><li>a sprig of holly or spruce</li><li>tissue paper (or <a href="http://www.creaturecomforts.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/11/diy-eco-happy-pom-pom-gift-topper.html">plastic grocery bag</a>) pom-poms<br /></li><li>candy canes or other festive-colored candies<br /></li><li>a few loops of cranberry garland<br /></li><li>small glittered pine cones</li><li>paper grocery bag handles (these can be quite easily glued into cute bows)</li></ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGxDyKQGP4R2a7t4mQPrQZkjTlhrgmh162wHPOKZ_bI82OwPMI7Y1VCQswkoOtlTxSP1Pk-Hq4x4yLGubzO7uWP767dKKoRm3giwQhec_Vw0zugU8y8AKBIfTPG_hUHwNDXRIoWgcRk-2/s400/Magazine-bow-finished.jpg"><br /></a>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-55785678843609982232009-12-16T16:49:00.000-08:002009-12-16T17:00:34.081-08:00Giveaway: Peapod $10 credit<p class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 310px; text-align: right;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:David_City_Rey_grocery_store.jpg"><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cf/David_City_Rey_grocery_store.jpg/300px-David_City_Rey_grocery_store.jpg" alt="A grocery store in David, Panama" style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="300" height="225" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><span class="zemanta-img-attribution">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:David_City_Rey_grocery_store.jpg">Wikipedia</a></span></span></p>In honor of nothing in particular, TAiMH is giving away a <span style="font-weight: bold;">$10 credit</span>, good on your next order from <a href="http://www.peapod.com/">Peapod.com</a>, the online grocery delivery service. There's no minimum purchase amount to use this credit, so if you just want to get $10 of free groceries, that's fine by me. Use it however you like. If you don't already have a Peapod account, it's quick and easy to open one. Peapod's service is not available everywhere; check their website for details.<br /><br />To enter the giveaway, just leave your e-mail in a comment below, so we can contact you with the credit code when you win. ;)<br /><br />Giveaway ends 12/30.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Disclaimer</span>: Peapod.com does not sponsor this blog in any way. I'm pretty sure they have no idea we even exist.<br /><br /><br /><fieldset class="zemanta-related"><legend class="zemanta-related-title">Related articles by Zemanta</legend><ul class="zemanta-article-ul"><li class="zemanta-article-ul-li"><a href="http://chris.pirillo.com/peapod-grocery-coupons/">Peapod Grocery Coupons</a> (chris.pirillo.com)</li></ul></fieldset> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/d1685dab-a1ef-4ce5-8567-cd0e7007c8d3/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=d1685dab-a1ef-4ce5-8567-cd0e7007c8d3" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-67802144419981702112009-12-14T11:43:00.001-08:002009-12-14T12:09:46.595-08:00Quick Hack: Easy Recycled Materials Christmas Candle Holder<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6cCUqKWNE-_rI3fTJrD2u-dzrSCwWMxGXqUqCPHt69NQOzFc3D3mdEZzO6U7swFLgcMViCTc2DoRKFyEZLRUTMtk9aiNFM4wCa0JFxTb0fivF3Vy8oGGHV43jSwKmqcZQ5eek5BX12g/s1600-h/dec095.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6cCUqKWNE-_rI3fTJrD2u-dzrSCwWMxGXqUqCPHt69NQOzFc3D3mdEZzO6U7swFLgcMViCTc2DoRKFyEZLRUTMtk9aiNFM4wCa0JFxTb0fivF3Vy8oGGHV43jSwKmqcZQ5eek5BX12g/s320/dec095.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415181808528258162" border="0" /></a><br />Make a pretty, festive, tapered candle holder for absolutely free with items you have sitting around the house.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Materials</span><br />4 toothpicks<br />glue<br />1 candle<br />2 rubberbands<br />pocket knife or craft knife<br />wide ribbon or scrap of fabric<br />any plastic container with a spout that roughly fits your candle (I used a small bleach bottle.)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br /><ol><li>Cut your container about 2 inches from the top.<br /><br /></li><li>Cut it again about 3 inches from the bottom.<br /><br /></li><li>Discard the middle piece.<br /><br /></li><li>Invert the top piece and insert it into the bottom piece. Glue to secure them together. This is your holder.<br /><br /></li><li>With your knife, cut small notches into the middle of your toothpicks. This isn't essential, but it helps the glue hold them together better. Two of the toothpicks will need one notch on each side; two of them (the top and bottom toothpicks) will only need one notch each.<br /><br /></li><li>Stack your toothpicks in a star formation and glue, preferably with either superglue or a hot glue gun.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpGoR3rtO1nrpnPqFTX-RFxCmDMjP3F0GsRaJX8QLT17W9CZ3PR4-rFvOokbm8QItIOJmcC44o4CZ6FRQAQiXoLA0qtBWwm6RwSTBHpqE9Kdbd8UX3ycY5Jx0b40Y23q-5Y7XaqMYPLKw/s1600-h/dec093.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpGoR3rtO1nrpnPqFTX-RFxCmDMjP3F0GsRaJX8QLT17W9CZ3PR4-rFvOokbm8QItIOJmcC44o4CZ6FRQAQiXoLA0qtBWwm6RwSTBHpqE9Kdbd8UX3ycY5Jx0b40Y23q-5Y7XaqMYPLKw/s320/dec093.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415180200063772242" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>While the star is drying, wrap your ribbon or scrap fabric around the holder and glue in place. Use the rubber bands to hold the ribbon or fabric in place while the glue dries.<br /><br /></li><li>If desired, paint or otherwise decorate the star. Gold glitter looks especially nice in candlelight, I think.<br /><br /></li><li>Once both the holder and the star are dry, glue the star onto the ribbon/fabric. Balance between the candle and the toothpick container until it dries, et voila!</li></ol><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_sL9tyhwM41wDdNZb1_TAk8oGUpS399LMbG8-d2MCcqMj_hMVaCOvM3KCxyZKOpIHEyVkJf1Bv-9NDiWXKYBhgaxRbhdLiDuxysyf1J1e5B9XYfJlLGJuAjWYeg2PVJz1v6CrwTNqL0/s1600-h/dec094.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_sL9tyhwM41wDdNZb1_TAk8oGUpS399LMbG8-d2MCcqMj_hMVaCOvM3KCxyZKOpIHEyVkJf1Bv-9NDiWXKYBhgaxRbhdLiDuxysyf1J1e5B9XYfJlLGJuAjWYeg2PVJz1v6CrwTNqL0/s320/dec094.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415180582691465218" border="0" /></a>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-76742516657787998262009-12-14T06:51:00.000-08:002009-12-14T12:11:12.031-08:0033 Easy and Frugal Homemade Holiday Gift and Decoration Ideas<p class="zemanta-img zemanta-action-dragged" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 310px; text-align: right;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Czerwona_bombka_choinkowa_ze_stanu_Tennessee_USA_zblizenie.jpg"><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/79/Czerwona_bombka_choinkowa_ze_stanu_Tennessee_USA_zblizenie.jpg/300px-Czerwona_bombka_choinkowa_ze_stanu_Tennessee_USA_zblizenie.jpg" alt="a red blown glass Christmas tree ornament, a t..." style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="300" height="225" /></a><span class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size:78%;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Czerwona_bombka_choinkowa_ze_stanu_Tennessee_USA_zblizenie.jpg">Wikipedia</a></span></p>With the unemployment rate at a record high and the economy doing so poorly, many of us have resigned ourselves to giving and receiving less this holiday season. But that doesn't have to be the case. Homemade gifts are more thoughtful and personal, as well as more frugal. There's no reason being on a budget has to mean toning down the fun and festivity of the giving season.<br /><br />Making homemade gifts for kids can be more challenging. They've likely had a list of expensive toys or video games ready for the past month. If this is the case, choose one or two of the less expensive items on their list and combine it with one or more homemade gifts from the "Especially For Kids" section below. This way they get just as many presents as they're used to, but you spend less money. Plus, it's a great way to introduce children to being creatively frugal and ushering them away from consumer comercialism.<br /><br />The key to creating fantastic, frugal, homemade gifts is to know your strengths. What do you do well? Cook? Bake? Sew? Build? Knit or crochet? Draw? The following are a set of lists of inexpensive, easy-to-make homemade gifts your friends and family are sure to adore, organized by talent. I haven't seen this type of organization before; I hope it's helpful.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cooking</span><br /><ol><li>Homemade preserves, jams, and spreads. Make a variety, put them in cute jars with printed or handwritten labels, and arrange the jars in a basket. You can often find small inexpensive baskets at garage sales, craft stores, or home and garden stores.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUzA2Fsr0VXImhp7dZ_YMhHHa5lD4tvdF6Oivmkw2V0SKtN3hFQiYaSs-UzgtDUsH9uAMmTz4VAqhVUSUZbE6M76CSgs1fe1ykv4eBfWI0_srvmO4X19t_xGokQfs0Nb2KxhabZVjU7w/s1600-h/jam+jars+-+use"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUzA2Fsr0VXImhp7dZ_YMhHHa5lD4tvdF6Oivmkw2V0SKtN3hFQiYaSs-UzgtDUsH9uAMmTz4VAqhVUSUZbE6M76CSgs1fe1ykv4eBfWI0_srvmO4X19t_xGokQfs0Nb2KxhabZVjU7w/s320/jam+jars+-+use" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411227605914647506" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>Homemade sauces, condiments, and marinades. Package as in #1.<br /><br /></li><li>Homemade cookbook or recipe cards. Know someone that loves your cooking? Compile recipes of their favorite dishes (or ones you think they might like). Print them on paper and arrange in a decorated binder or write them by hand on homemade recipe cards. If you're not strong in the art department, you can usually find cute sets of inexpensive blank recipe cards at Marshall's. If you can find or decorate a cute box for the cards, even better.</li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baking</span><br /><ol><li>Loaf of special homemade bread. Make it a regular white loaf, or if your loved one is more health conscious, try a whole wheat or mixed whole grain loaf. Tip: Spice it up: make a flavored and herbs like rosemary, dill, tomato-basil, or sourdough or make it look fancy by braiding it.<br /><br />If fresh bread won't work for travel or other reasons, try making bread mixes instead. Put each in a small paper bag and label nicely. Include handwritten recipe cards with instructions. Collect bags in a basket or larger gift bag.<br /><br /></li><li>Two words: gingerbread men (and/or women, snowmen, wreaths, etc.) These are super fun to make and decorate and they're a great project to do with kids. Make them to eat or to use as ornaments.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6novy5yPRfqDtj4CzN-Cd4kUda7Iifr7YAhJql8Oi8j_FneqK8m48HKjXYXQ4EpqjPE_P6XISnEC9EuuyA_UdVZObRQH8dk5IgA92ctnsqOSQklvpSzKViYtfdFbPXfl5PA0cNt1Y0Wo/s1600-h/Gingerbreadcookies-main_Full.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6novy5yPRfqDtj4CzN-Cd4kUda7Iifr7YAhJql8Oi8j_FneqK8m48HKjXYXQ4EpqjPE_P6XISnEC9EuuyA_UdVZObRQH8dk5IgA92ctnsqOSQklvpSzKViYtfdFbPXfl5PA0cNt1Y0Wo/s320/Gingerbreadcookies-main_Full.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411228688207650194" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></li><li>Assorted homemade cookies. This is good if you have multiple people to "buy" for. Make one or more batches (depending on how many people your giving to) of several types of cookies and package in small baggies tied with festive ribbon. In a nice basket or other container, one for each gift recipient, put one baggie of each type of cookie. If you're in a pinch, even personalized brown lunch bags can be prettied up. As in #1, if the gifts have to travel a ways or for other reasons keep for a long time, consider making mixes instead.<br /><br /></li><li>Homemade pancake, waffle, muffin, or biscuit mix. Package as above. A small wooden scoop is a nice touch. You can find these at craft stores. Package the mix in small brown bags or mason jars tied with a ribbon and hand-labeled.<br /><br /></li><li>My all-time favorite baked gift: cherry pie. Do not underestimate the giving power of a homemade pie. Cake, flan, or other delicious desserts are also welcome. (Hint, hint.)<br /><br /></li></ol> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sewing/Knitting/Crocheting</span><br /><ol><li>Handmade tool belt, tote, makeup bag, purse, pencil organizer, or messenger bag.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpbzvrTGDTYG9ts9JvepKXIZjv0RaAq44hzU-Aa2CpJ-JYRcONP3mrUDsO9r0Us9cHqXtgA1nocE1XZP07dlohkhagBfy922kdQXGIw7T2re3Uf9ASL1n_iZVD_oobXGXH8QD-DIf5BM/s1600-h/make-up-bags-001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 235px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpbzvrTGDTYG9ts9JvepKXIZjv0RaAq44hzU-Aa2CpJ-JYRcONP3mrUDsO9r0Us9cHqXtgA1nocE1XZP07dlohkhagBfy922kdQXGIw7T2re3Uf9ASL1n_iZVD_oobXGXH8QD-DIf5BM/s320/make-up-bags-001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411238743861667730" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>Ready-to-hang embroidered or needlepoint work in frame.<br /><br /></li><li>Embroidered/personalized handkerchiefs, scarf, pillows, or sachets.<br /><br /></li><li>(Relatively) quick knitted/crocheted items such as scarves, gloves/mittens/glittens, cozy winter hats, socks, woven belts, etc.</li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Building/Crafting</span><ol><li>Picture in handmade frame: Make your own from wood, or if you're less skilled with carpentry, try making simple ones from rigid cardstock and decorating them with felt, marker, paint, fabric, and/or glitter.<br /><br /></li><li>Handmade Christmas ornaments. Ideas: dyed popcorn and/or cranberry strands, oranges with cloves, gingerbread ornaments, sparkly pine cones, photo ornaments, paper snowflakes, felt cutouts, etc.<br /><br /></li><li>Try this fabulously simple salt-dough recipe to make paintable ornaments: Combine 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup salt, and 1/2 cup water. Roll out dough and cut either by hand or with cookie cutters. Bake at 250F for 2 hours.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijAkDawnb4Bo_OJYO4FPIbivyT6opTIv-rJDxrfR6nZoKqp_dCDT41qQ84ljXFPmVbGoORQ07YThOQNNVRuMTmWI1bxOQ3kF3KZoVRUY6CngBFF8EFhnmZUmTBlBSAzd4XROZYzLLzs8A/s1600-h/2086263625_4e5cc8e89b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijAkDawnb4Bo_OJYO4FPIbivyT6opTIv-rJDxrfR6nZoKqp_dCDT41qQ84ljXFPmVbGoORQ07YThOQNNVRuMTmWI1bxOQ3kF3KZoVRUY6CngBFF8EFhnmZUmTBlBSAzd4XROZYzLLzs8A/s320/2086263625_4e5cc8e89b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411230552737076114" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>Colored, scented, and/or decorated candles. Go a step further and make <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/12/quick-hack-easy-recycled-materials.html"><span>candle holders</span></a>, too!<br /><br /></li><li>Bowls, planters, vases, or ashtrays made from old vinyl records—bad ones can usually be found for around 50 cents each at thrift stores.</li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Drawing/Painting/Design</span><br /><ol><li>Coffee mug with treats: Find some plain mugs at a thrift store or garage sale, get some ceramic paint, and create a personalized, useful coffee mug. Stuff it with a baggie of whole coffee beans or candies, and tie with a ribbon.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxA8BrVaR8PhQAzkAN-LomVTWWZqNh_vfds8EDRk3f_so2LXBLqvr2SGY0QbHTcWhABY9Jm8Q3DiCqlQTMo9ezuNotN8P118vw0ioQbt5dUXcq4qEbP33T7iFoITIk80fHxeZUMhMuN7Q/s1600-h/Soup+Mug+Christmas.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxA8BrVaR8PhQAzkAN-LomVTWWZqNh_vfds8EDRk3f_so2LXBLqvr2SGY0QbHTcWhABY9Jm8Q3DiCqlQTMo9ezuNotN8P118vw0ioQbt5dUXcq4qEbP33T7iFoITIk80fHxeZUMhMuN7Q/s320/Soup+Mug+Christmas.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411242932850132594" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>Decorated plant pot with seeds or small plant and care instruction card.<br /><br /></li><li>Thoughtfully designed, personalized stationery, note cards, postcards, or phone/address book. Make them on the computer or by hand the old fashioned way with rubber stamps, colorful paper, and glue. <span style="font-style: italic;">Warning:</span> rubber stamps and decorative papers don't come cheap. Attempt this only if you already have these items.</li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">No talent required</span><br /><ol><li> A pound of pistachios, nice teas, or coffees, packaged nicely by hand.<br /><br /></li><li>Homemade cocoa mix: recipes <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/12/quick-hack-and-holiday-gift-homemade.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>. Package in a decorated mason jar or paper lunch bag.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNR4zmSmm6Q3C30AYZnZcTScNyG9pVvNaICbRCw2CcgBzveQGumuHZZU6y-RYdP2JqlSewYvlE6XI9we8L2uOTyE7Y1L58LyjzMykKlw52NUeb3TjuJAoCMghOEmMPlr5l6nzz20mhF4w/s1600-h/homemade-cocoa-mix_300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 269px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNR4zmSmm6Q3C30AYZnZcTScNyG9pVvNaICbRCw2CcgBzveQGumuHZZU6y-RYdP2JqlSewYvlE6XI9we8L2uOTyE7Y1L58LyjzMykKlw52NUeb3TjuJAoCMghOEmMPlr5l6nzz20mhF4w/s320/homemade-cocoa-mix_300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411243633517464338" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>Gourmet, homemade teas: Recipes <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/12/quick-hack-and-holiday-gift-homemade_07.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>. If you can find a cute inexpensive teacup or pot, arrange your homemade teas inside it and add a pretty ribbon.<br /><br /></li><li>Homemade organic body scrubs, lotions, oils, bath salts, or bath bombs. Recipes <a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/12/quick-hack-and-holiday-gift-homemade_09.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>.<br /><br /></li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold;">Especially For Kids</span><br /><ol><li>Homemade play dough: make a variety of colors and place in assorted tubs or other plastic containers. Label and package in a dressed up box or basket, preferably one that they can use permanently to store their new play dough.<br /><br /></li><li>Handmade stuffed animals.<br /><br /></li><li>Lacing cards made from old greeting cards or magazine pictures glued (glue stick works best) to cardstock.<br /><br /></li><li>Homemade crayons. Collect broken or super short crayons, melt them down, and create beautiful swirled crayons in fun shapes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpmHqyI4bdNr7ygRsm7w-k8y0HXrgqO4dVcDPjyMYe4-NlR1Uc8U_6lNtFNmCg80DPW3VbqAq3XHGVWHf46LrwXrA2IeD_byXkkiEhWGUQWAjeeYuPM3hh_MtAVxtYoM5jw1HYOzHILU/s1600-h/homemade-crayons-in-progress.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpmHqyI4bdNr7ygRsm7w-k8y0HXrgqO4dVcDPjyMYe4-NlR1Uc8U_6lNtFNmCg80DPW3VbqAq3XHGVWHf46LrwXrA2IeD_byXkkiEhWGUQWAjeeYuPM3hh_MtAVxtYoM5jw1HYOzHILU/s320/homemade-crayons-in-progress.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411244757515724066" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>See "cookies" under "<span>Baking</span>" above. Duh.<br /><br /></li><li>Painting Set. Combine some paint brushes, assorted paints (corresponding to the child's age and ability), paper, and perhaps a palette. For the palette, try an old cutting board or plastic lid with a child size thumb hole cut out. Or if that's out of your crafting league, check your local art supply store, dollar store, or toy store for inexpensive ones.<br /><br /></li><li>Drawing Set. Combine assorted weight pencils, charcoal, and erasers with an inexpensive drawing pad and perhaps a tracing pad. Depending on the child's age and ability, you could throw in some drawing books as well. You can often find these in the "bargain" section at bookstores.<br /><br /></li><li>Gardening Kit. Combine and package a few different types of seeds and/or bulbs, toy gardening tools (sand castle kits from the dollar store work well and are cheap), a labeling kit (popsicle sticks and cardstock rectangles), and perhaps a toy watering can.<br /><br /></li><li>Costume Chest. In a large box, decorated perhaps with the child's name, combine various articles or clothing that would be fun for playing dress-up. Raid your closet for items that either don't fit or are out of style and make a trip to Goodwill to make up the rest. The more outrageous the better.<br /></li></ol><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-63260026561941039132009-12-09T17:16:00.000-08:002009-12-11T18:21:05.532-08:00Quick Hack and Holiday Gift: Homemade body scrubs, lotions, oils, bath salts, or bath bombs<p class="zemanta-img zemanta-action-dragged" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 250px; text-align: right;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65856430@N00/758660608"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1372/758660608_3a0bf16819_m.jpg" alt="tower o' bombs" style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="240" height="240" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><span class="zemanta-img-attribution">Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65856430@N00/758660608">Amanda *Bake It Pretty*</a> via Flickr</span></span></p>Everybody loves a nice relaxing bath, and I don't know a female on the planet who doesn't love receiving bath-related gifts. Last year, I made a batch of each of these and made bath gift baskets for all my friends and relatives, even the guys. (They got manly scented salts and bombs only, and they loved them. MDT especially is sucker for a hot bubble bath. His favorites are the bombs. What a surprise.)<br /><br />This year I'm too far away from most of my friends and family to make these, so I'm sharing the recipes with you. Have fun!<br /><br />Already got your holiday gifts covered? Get together some girlfriends and have a DIY pamper party. Everybody brings one ingredient, in bulk, and you get to spend an evening with your pals drinking wine and making pretty stuff. At the end of the night, swap for your favorite fragrance combos and take home a basket of goodies. You'll be set for the next year.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bath salts</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00lO69npUbubC-Mf_wLP289cM68cA42pfX8R8mB-fwCLBuMLIhSjOAatPS1nJdKtsMPGkR2uucbvydqXT73ftrYDn0asprvLpqMmDcB33M6iNoGJZJ6offmSUkf5kfBhgJT5L76oQuzY/s1600-h/Scrubs-004-300x199.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00lO69npUbubC-Mf_wLP289cM68cA42pfX8R8mB-fwCLBuMLIhSjOAatPS1nJdKtsMPGkR2uucbvydqXT73ftrYDn0asprvLpqMmDcB33M6iNoGJZJ6offmSUkf5kfBhgJT5L76oQuzY/s320/Scrubs-004-300x199.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413427434750279890" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />6 cups Epson salts<br />2 T baby oil<br />1/2 tsp of the essential oil of your choice<br />1/8 tsp food coloring - gel works best<br />assorted jars or containers<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Mix liquid ingredients first. Add in salts and stir. Package in 1 cup jars.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">To use</span><br />Add 1/4 cup salts to warm running bath water.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Salt (or sugar) scrub</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />6 cup sea salt or sugar (large grain, unrefined works best)<br />3 cup oil (almond, olive, baby, etc.)<br />30 vitamin E capsules<br />a few drops of the essential oil of your choice<br />Dried flower petals, dried herbs, the zest of lemons or other citrus fruits (optional)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Dissolve vitamin capsules in oil over low heat. Mix all ingredients, and package in small jars.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukMio235XcbPl3LlvRCB_lfH1LSBQPn2Fd7r2xy2s-1-FYklUVrg1gECqlx3CkxzeXAHP0M5t50_DKIPVe0tUdZaRUl5BTXa8qEuFfbv7sRLj13frkXi2HyGezLCqnV4HxXTF-nnpCqA/s1600-h/Scrubs-002-300x199.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukMio235XcbPl3LlvRCB_lfH1LSBQPn2Fd7r2xy2s-1-FYklUVrg1gECqlx3CkxzeXAHP0M5t50_DKIPVe0tUdZaRUl5BTXa8qEuFfbv7sRLj13frkXi2HyGezLCqnV4HxXTF-nnpCqA/s320/Scrubs-002-300x199.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413427666240293394" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Powdered milk bath </span><br /><br />This is one of my favorites. I love stepping out of the bath with baby soft skin and smelling pretty. It's a simple pleasure.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />3 cup powdered milk<br />1/2 tsp essential oils<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Combine and mix well. Package in small jars.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Additions/Substitutions</span>:<br />You can substitute vanilla extract for the essential oils.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vanilla and honey bath oil</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />1 cup baby oil<br />1/2 cup honey<br />1 T pure vanilla extract<br />1/2 cup liquid soap (optional, for foam)<br />small bottles (I save all my condiments bottles—hot sauce, soy sauce, etc.—and recycle them for this.)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Combine and mix well. Package in small jars.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bath bombs</span><br /><br />These are super fun. I love love love using them. So much, in fact, I always make several extra for myself.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />2 T citric acid<br />2 T cornstarch<br />1/4 cup baking soda<br />1/4 tsp essential oil<br />5 drops food coloring<br />Dried flower petals, dried herbs, the zest of lemons or other citrus fruits (optional)<br />3 T oil—olive, coconut, almond, etc.<br />Wax paper, molds, or cupcake tin<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br /><ol><li>Mix dry ingredients. </li><li>Mix oil fragrance and coloring in another bowl.</li><li>Incorporate wet mix into dry mix. </li><li>Roll into balls, place on wax paper. Or, if using cupcake tin or molds, scoop mix in and pack well.<br /></li><li>Wait 2 days. </li><li>Store in sealed containers or wrap in colorful plastic wrap</li></ol><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/919c66d8-d5f5-4e03-afd3-96fd1d5938b7/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=919c66d8-d5f5-4e03-afd3-96fd1d5938b7" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-66052766513934848652009-12-07T12:41:00.000-08:002009-12-08T18:29:57.466-08:00Quick Hack and Holiday Gift: Homemade Gourmet Tea Blends<p class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 190px; text-align: right;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/95111171@N00/75205500"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/42/75205500_1e966b490e_m.jpg" alt="Christmas spice tea" style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="180" height="240" /></a><span class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size:78%;">Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/95111171@N00/75205500">hiromy</a> via<br /></span></p>Besides tasting lovely, tea is said to have many health benefits including increased energy, reduced blood pressure, immune system strengthening, enhanced concentration, and even healthier, younger-looking skin.<br /><br />But contrary to popular belief, you don't have to spend a small fortune for gourmet tea. If you make your own, it's ridiculously cheap, especially if you grow your own herbs. But not to worry if you don't have an herb garden—all the ingredients for the following recipes are easy to find and can be acquired on the cheap at your local grocery or farmers' market. Moreover, when you make your own tea blends from loose tea, not only is the quality of the tea much higher, but it's more economical as well. In general, loose tea costs less than tea bags and you can resteep loose tea, thereby stretching your tea dollar, so to speak.<br /><br />Make these frugal, gourmet teas for yourself or package them in neat jars or tins and give them as gifts to your favorite foodies/tea-lovers. Include an inexpensive <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0X7G?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000NL0X7G">tea strainer</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004RIZ7?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00004RIZ7">infuser</a>, maybe a small jar of honey or some homemade tea biscuits or scones and you've got the perfect gift for your favorite foodies/tea-lovers/anglophiles.<br /><br />Don't forget to check the brewing tips at the end of the post!<br /><br />On to the recipes.<br /><br /><br />This first isn't exactly a tea but rather a spice mixture. Add a bit to your favorite black tea along with a splash of warm milk, and you've got Chai (literally just means "tea," but is used worldwide to refer to Indian-style spiced tea with milk). This mix is a personal favorite and a result of lots of trial and (tasty) error. Perhaps the name is a bit biased, but so be it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Perfect Chai (Indian Spiced Tea) Mix</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Yields 3 cups of mix. (Each cup of mix makes 24 cups of chai.</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ20I-AOOhsIO5pnTebOLuzgzrLSxyNtJZYZK6jP38T2IACjA0fUiNcca-GIC_B7R5Ig6gPV3eE0ZYhSq_9p2SprLgsBx_3vJGYZtSCK_rMg3cUvxyhMvyvFpefHpbSyr-NUsn9EYdc8/s1600-h/chai.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ20I-AOOhsIO5pnTebOLuzgzrLSxyNtJZYZK6jP38T2IACjA0fUiNcca-GIC_B7R5Ig6gPV3eE0ZYhSq_9p2SprLgsBx_3vJGYZtSCK_rMg3cUvxyhMvyvFpefHpbSyr-NUsn9EYdc8/s320/chai.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412731966486030162" border="0" /></a><br />2 cups powdered sugar<br />1 vanilla bean<br />4 tbsp ground ginger<br />2 tbsp ground cinnamon<br />4 tsp ground cloves<br />4 tbsp ground cardamom<br />4 tsp ground nutmeg<br />4 tsp ground allspice<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions<br /></span><br />1. Cover the vanilla bean with the sugar and store overnight in an airtight container. The sugar will absorb the vanilla flavor. In the morning, remove the bean and throw it out.<br /><br />2. Combine all the ingredients and mix well. If some of the spices are not ground to a fine powder already, pulsing them all together in a food processor should do the trick.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Preparation</span><br />Add 2 tsp of mix to a half-filled cup of hot <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EM6PC6?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000EM6PC6">black tea</a>, fill with warm milk, and stir.<br />It's also quite good cold; just sub iced tea and cold milk.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gourmet Herbal Tea</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">s</span><br /><br />Combine any flavors you like and mix with loose tea—<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Foffer-listing%2FB001DJEEPO%3Fie%3DUTF8%26ref_%3Ddp%255Folp%255F0%26condition%3Dall&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">red</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002MTW1LI?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002MTW1LI">green</a>, or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002MTVZWO?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002MTVZWO">white</a> all work well. For an even more thoughtful and personalized gift, choose herbs with target benefits to create a custom blend for your loved ones. (The links above are to the most economic bulk loose teas available on Amazon at the time of this writing.)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Supplies</span><br />your choice of herbs<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001RPWD3O?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001RPWD3O">mortar and pestle</a> (depending on your selection of herbs)<br />small jars or plastic baggies<br />ribbon<br />basket or other gift container<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqG35jlVq9iqHNuBtRwoEt2CoHB0k3O3i-UZGFJFYHq_TloYLr1C2XLFySwlwc21-6kTZy7zulrHxiZfI2kAJL6FsX3ey0xfftONLahET9yo-kdWpsVfj7hKdwBNzzzwSgzkxfaoY_kA/s1600-h/loose_tea_3_2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqG35jlVq9iqHNuBtRwoEt2CoHB0k3O3i-UZGFJFYHq_TloYLr1C2XLFySwlwc21-6kTZy7zulrHxiZfI2kAJL6FsX3ey0xfftONLahET9yo-kdWpsVfj7hKdwBNzzzwSgzkxfaoY_kA/s320/loose_tea_3_2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412732718595581602" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Suggested Blends</span><br />(All herbs should be dried and either whole or crushed, not ground.)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>1 part ginger root, 1 part cloves, and 1 part nutmeg<br />1 part <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012Q79A0?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0012Q79A0">chamomile flowers</a> to 1 part peppermint leaves<br />1 part dried ginger root to 2 parts peppermint leaves<br />4 parts anise, 1 part cinnamon bark, 1 part cloves, and 1 part vanilla bean <br />3 parts rosemary, 3 parts <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Foffer-listing%2FB000UXEZ9O%3Fie%3DUTF8%26ref_%3Ddp%255Folp%255Fnew%26qid%3D1260246526%26sr%3D1-3%26condition%3Dnew&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">lavender flowers</a> , and 3 parts marjoram <br />1 part cloves, 1 part allspice, and 1 part cinnamon bark<br />2 parts <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001BMPQ0?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0001BMPQ0">lemon verbena leaves</a> to 1 part lavender flowers<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Mix herbs thoroughly, toss the mixture with the loose tea of your choice, and store in an air-tight container.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Preparation</span><br />Brew 1 tsp of tea in 1 cup of not-quite-boiling water.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tea Brewing Tips</span><br /></div>1. Most teas take between 30 seconds and 2 minutes to brew. Any more and you risk oversteeping, which makes the tea bitter.<br /><br />2. Like coffee, tea doesn't take well to boiling water. I do recommend boiling the water to purify it, but just make sure you let it cool a few minutes before adding it to your teapot.<br /><br />3. You can reuse or resteep loose tea leaves up to 4 times. Just let each brew steep a minute longer than the one before. Don't try this with tea bags; it won't work. That's a difference between loose tea and tea powder. Just another reason why making your own loose tea blends is more economical than buying boxed flavored tea or tea bags.<br /><br /><br />Want to get ahead on next year's gifts or just want to keep yourself in organic cooking and tea ingredients? Winter's a perfect time to start a little indoor <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E7OYNI?ie=UTF8&tag=trueadveinmon-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000E7OYNI">herb garden</a>.<br /><br /><div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/dc9b5e91-8632-434b-ba6f-7bda52f5b54b/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=dc9b5e91-8632-434b-ba6f-7bda52f5b54b" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-65669986928432966362009-12-04T15:00:00.000-08:002009-12-04T13:16:24.587-08:00Quick Hack and Holiday Gift: Homemade Hot Cocoa Mixes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Im5SxZlrjCbRvkrlPf7uNdO4kmMH2QYDQKFanO4yg8PnRM5gGyAgNcb1FyqSBwu1gqAaxyReQP8_LU9f41er3GxPWypl9nthH4RWG2bL_4xyhJi0MDJBn1KeTebYt-CuS8M8TRjl_2c/s1600-h/best-hot-cocoa-mix-christmas-recipe-photo-260-FF1203KITCHA03.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Im5SxZlrjCbRvkrlPf7uNdO4kmMH2QYDQKFanO4yg8PnRM5gGyAgNcb1FyqSBwu1gqAaxyReQP8_LU9f41er3GxPWypl9nthH4RWG2bL_4xyhJi0MDJBn1KeTebYt-CuS8M8TRjl_2c/s320/best-hot-cocoa-mix-christmas-recipe-photo-260-FF1203KITCHA03.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411480797126226306" border="0" /></a><br />One of my favorite things to do in chilly weather is to cuddle up under a patchwork quilt near the window with a good book and a cup of delicious homemade hot cocoa.<br /><br />Below are recipes for American-style hot cocoa mix, Mexican-style hot cocoa mix, and chocolate syrup.<br /><br />Not only are these recipes quick and cheap hacks that cost significantly less than making hot chocolate with a store-bought dry mix or Hershey syrup, but pair a jar or two of these mixes with a nice mug, a bag of mini marshmallows, and a few candy canes for stirrers, and you've got a great, homemade holiday gift.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Note:</span> A lot of cocoa mix recipes call for powdered nondairy creamer, but you'll want to steer clear of those ones. Almost all nondairy creamers, such as CoffeeMate and Creamora, contain hydrogenated oils (trans fats). Because most store-bought hot chocolate mixes are made with these nondairy creamers, they too are choc (sorry, I couldn't resist) full of trans fats. Swiss Miss, get a clue: Drop the hydrogenated oils! (Ironically, even their sugar-free and low-fat packs, the types marketed to more health-conscious consumers, contain trans fats.) Tsk, tsk.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Delectably Fat-Free Homemade Cocoa Mix</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />4 cups nonfat powdered milk or powdered soy milk<br />1 cup cocoa powder<br />2 cups powdered sugar<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Additions/Substitutions</span>: You can use regular granulated sugar if you prefer, but I find that powdered sugar mixes better and makes the end product creamier. For a really rich cocoa, Italian style, add 4 oz unsweetened dark chocolate, coarsely chopped.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Combine all ingredients in large bowl and mix well. Transfer to storage jar(s).<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">To make hot cocoa</span><br />Use 2 Tb per mug (or to taste), fill with hot water.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Chocolate Fiesta" Mexican Hot Cocoa Mix</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1/3</span> cup light brown sugar<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">3/4</span> tsp ground cinnamon<br />1 <span style="font-size:85%;">1/2 </span>tsp powdered vanilla (or 1 whole vanilla bean)<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1/4</span> cup cocoa powder<br />2 <span style="font-size:85%;">1/2</span> cups powdered milk or powdered soy milk<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1/2</span> tsp of red (cayenne) pepper (optional)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />Combine all ingredients in large bowl and mix well. Transfer to storage jar(s).<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">To make hot cocoa</span><br />Use 2 Tb per mug (or to taste), fill with hot water.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chocolate Syrup</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients</span><br />1 <span style="font-size:85%;">1/2</span> cups water<br />3 cups sugar<br />1 <span style="font-size:85%;">1/2</span> cups cocoa powder<br />1 tablespoon vanilla extract<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1/4</span> teaspoon sea salt<br />2 tablespoons light corn syrup<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Directions</span><br />In a small pot, boil water and sugar. Gradually whisk in cocoa powder, sea salt, vanilla extract, and corn syrup. Keep whisking until everything has dissolved and simmer until desired thickness. Let cool and transfer to bottles.<br /><br />Use for hot chocolate, cold chocolate milk, or as a dessert topping.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Tip</span><br />Save your ketchup, mustard, syrup, and other squeeze bottles to reuse for this project. Remove the labels and add your own!<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-64414859337857817092009-12-03T17:17:00.000-08:002009-12-08T17:35:56.932-08:00Quick Hack: Candle holders from bottles and cansLast week the electricity kept going out, sometimes only for a few seconds, sometimes for several hours. I never did find out what was going on, but I found myself in need of candle holders, ASAP. And so I found another way to upcycle plastic bottles and aluminum cans.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What you need: </span><br />scissors<br />candles<br /><br />These are both super quick and super easy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aluminum Can Candle Holder</span><br /><ol><li>Carefully remove the tab from an empty can and cut around the can about an inch from the top.<br /></li><li>Recycle the bottom portion or reuse it, for instance, as a <span style="font-weight: bold;">planter</span>.</li><li>Push the flap back up to create a flat surface on top.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6xSj_OqwXjxg7lzF4TCKFO2wn-3bj0XFTtPcY-7Rtwj65Hw9KJ30QzyehEDIGVflfqGo5Ok-HU-SmlQ1SakveEFyFav9G7ni8iiusnRfnyBLXEhqkzLAppswKH9lkIHzQblI9Io1X0k/s1600-h/bottles+and+cans2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6xSj_OqwXjxg7lzF4TCKFO2wn-3bj0XFTtPcY-7Rtwj65Hw9KJ30QzyehEDIGVflfqGo5Ok-HU-SmlQ1SakveEFyFav9G7ni8iiusnRfnyBLXEhqkzLAppswKH9lkIHzQblI9Io1X0k/s320/bottles+and+cans2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411189113946373602" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>Flip the can top over and carefully fold in a couple centimeters of the edge, towards the inside, so that it doesn't have sharp edges.</li><li>Set a tealight inside and you're ready to go.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZyq54k13uzHSkWuNt9W1CL0BsnxZkD6hYcDcOfPgl_3sp40SbpEM0vAj_QhNd1BqBNTmHTzIIZg6v56XM9IQMQOWTh2xtFNVhOOrytcR9MDWpL1LkM6cn9QBeonxP0UD5NFaCYKToa-0/s1600-h/bottles+and+cans1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZyq54k13uzHSkWuNt9W1CL0BsnxZkD6hYcDcOfPgl_3sp40SbpEM0vAj_QhNd1BqBNTmHTzIIZg6v56XM9IQMQOWTh2xtFNVhOOrytcR9MDWpL1LkM6cn9QBeonxP0UD5NFaCYKToa-0/s320/bottles+and+cans1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411189028124606066" border="0" /></a><br /></li><li>These also float, so if you feel like being fancy, you can make a bunch and float them in a large bowl, preferably glass for the nicest effect.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6xSj_OqwXjxg7lzF4TCKFO2wn-3bj0XFTtPcY-7Rtwj65Hw9KJ30QzyehEDIGVflfqGo5Ok-HU-SmlQ1SakveEFyFav9G7ni8iiusnRfnyBLXEhqkzLAppswKH9lkIHzQblI9Io1X0k/s1600-h/bottles+and+cans2.jpg"><br /></a></li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Plastic Bottle Candle Holder</span><br /><ol><li>Cut the bottle roughly a third of the way from the top.<br /></li><li>Turn the top section upside down and insert a candle in the cap. If it doesn't fit snugly in the cap, drip some wax around the base until it's stable.</li><li>Pour a few inches of water in the bottom section for stability.</li><li>Insert the top section, upside down, with the candle into the bottom section. The water should not be high enough to touch the cap.</li><li>Light and enjoy.<br /></li></ol><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx1txIihPvOOuD78o-17MpPJ69ziWOelE3ID9sB6gbA2RsDgCm67iHarvLMAGxlISOlJ2-VuSkXR2sdkIP7jweQCb-nIGJVhbpSpmCGmqRYnotCIxO6MQ63zptjLDD-ap-B7EXLCdQGTM/s1600-h/bottles+and+cans3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx1txIihPvOOuD78o-17MpPJ69ziWOelE3ID9sB6gbA2RsDgCm67iHarvLMAGxlISOlJ2-VuSkXR2sdkIP7jweQCb-nIGJVhbpSpmCGmqRYnotCIxO6MQ63zptjLDD-ap-B7EXLCdQGTM/s320/bottles+and+cans3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411189225670798418" border="0" /><br /></a>The bottle candle holder isn't very pretty when not in use, but the water and the clear plastic actually do very pretty things with the candlelight in the dark. With a bit of paint or some ribbon, I think it could look quite nice just sitting around.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-13799149840998917172009-11-23T19:09:00.000-08:002009-12-06T14:10:11.544-08:00The fence that makes good neighbors needs a gate to make good friends<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsoU980HrOgjVp1LLG_EgzrkEnHXDhJTiNK2T5P8jtYZIS59WYglTjnHTWdjXDH4ptPs6dCmiJtuDKmowbhArQUH9YfatFPml_3AFgGkmcGya764YPfkpIe6FZOxoKqnfOt1HZoEmSho/s1600/IMGP0004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsoU980HrOgjVp1LLG_EgzrkEnHXDhJTiNK2T5P8jtYZIS59WYglTjnHTWdjXDH4ptPs6dCmiJtuDKmowbhArQUH9YfatFPml_3AFgGkmcGya764YPfkpIe6FZOxoKqnfOt1HZoEmSho/s200/IMGP0004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407470420313015794" border="0" /></a>I've never really had friendly neighbors before.<br /><br />The house where I grew up was in a small neighborhood of mostly elderly people who rarely left their houses. The couple next door was friendly. My father and they would exchange garden produce and they'd invite my sisters and I to swim in their pool. But most of my exchanges with the other neighbors were limited to waves and hellos.<br /><br />In my adult life I've lived in four cities: St. Louis, New Orleans, London, and Boston. In none of them did I even know my neighbors. I couldn't have told you their names. No one came by to introduce themselves when I moved in, and few even had a smile to offer when passing.<br /><br />What ever happened to the days when new neighbors showed up on your doorstep with a casserole or invited each other for dinner or just to chat on the front porch? I wondered. Didn't I see that on <span style="font-style: italic;">Leave It to Beaver</span> or <span style="font-style: italic;">Little House on the Prairie</span>?<br /><br />I don't want to slag on Americans in general (There are plenty of other people to do that, right?), but what's the deal? I made attempts to get to know and befriend the people in my neighborhood in every place I lived, but without luck. Nobody was interested. And look, I'm a pretty damn interesting person. I don't smell. I'm not insane, annoying, or pushy. I don't have any weird tics or a third eyeball or anything. So what gives? I don't have trouble meeting people or making friends elsewhere, but I'll be damned if I can make friends with the people who live 50 feet away from me and whom I see nearly every day.<br /><br />Until now, that is. Since MDT and I have been in Costa Rica (a little over a month), not only have we met all our immediate neighbors (and their extended families), but we even consider them our friends.<br /><br />The couple across the street is awesome. They have been incredibly helpful. The guy is a contractor, and has come over to help us fix several things around the house that had us stumped (the frighteningly named "suicide shower" that is endemic to Central America, for one), and given us lifts to town, etc. His girlfriend made us rice pudding, her parents brought us Guanabana shakes, and her daughter stops by almost daily to practice her English and play with the cats and often brings us oranges or bananas that she's picked. They're like our adoptive family. It's pretty cool.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1YvXkNESZLHK_Mj8e6WWReZBNm4iekP2khFmXGExuuLopY74YwITU2mB89i0fK_l9bxKR8SQjdiH3bSUyCHyD8dIpsvG5N1APKV8VgMpqHIno1oZ5AgQbwQ_CxxuoizNL9lxLTbQjjo/s1600/Nov09_2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1YvXkNESZLHK_Mj8e6WWReZBNm4iekP2khFmXGExuuLopY74YwITU2mB89i0fK_l9bxKR8SQjdiH3bSUyCHyD8dIpsvG5N1APKV8VgMpqHIno1oZ5AgQbwQ_CxxuoizNL9lxLTbQjjo/s320/Nov09_2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407449794929815810" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Plantains brought to us (and wrapped with birthday paper) by Angelica, age 7.</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6ZzaxeFCSa81W1qqyTLfcuTKCt9gC_2lCG2Wg6-10OJ0kKTlFVuChpo3vsUrCq7uDTiAjmzmOwOjJMeA1rSwcc3NqulcnmzLmTjdK3tAOeG1TzlXw5RaQ-Q3Vb5icFO0MnUqeunFg4U/s1600/Nov09_3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6ZzaxeFCSa81W1qqyTLfcuTKCt9gC_2lCG2Wg6-10OJ0kKTlFVuChpo3vsUrCq7uDTiAjmzmOwOjJMeA1rSwcc3NqulcnmzLmTjdK3tAOeG1TzlXw5RaQ-Q3Vb5icFO0MnUqeunFg4U/s320/Nov09_3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407451155585349778" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">An entire branch of bananas from our friend Pablo.</span><br /><br /></div>Our landlady and her daughter live next door and two doors down, respectively. They've also brought us fruit and given us rides, and her seven-year-old granddaughter is always running around playing and bringing me flowers.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_nABVauwKRp1Hd0vTUr0RXoGLL9LTntif4PcKomEzlHHHP96FbN6yvcsaUvtb0CEzCEQFxxPDVpXIXxg_Ji2yUGlpkpDZ8x0n0Nh5NH5z1Hcvd2Jl7f-853vHT9prwURwgKSHQ0YwHE/s1600/Nov09_1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_nABVauwKRp1Hd0vTUr0RXoGLL9LTntif4PcKomEzlHHHP96FbN6yvcsaUvtb0CEzCEQFxxPDVpXIXxg_Ji2yUGlpkpDZ8x0n0Nh5NH5z1Hcvd2Jl7f-853vHT9prwURwgKSHQ0YwHE/s320/Nov09_1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407469174900711538" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Flowers, picked and delivered by Angelica. Yes, that's a giant tin of tomatoes. We didn't have a vase.</span><br /></div><br />Another neighbor, a guy MDT plays fútbol with, has invited us for drinks at the bar next door and to his upcoming birthday bash, and others routinely give us a lift to or from town if they're passing by. We know everyone's names (and their dogs', cats', and horses').<br /><br />It's always difficult when you're new in town, but this time we're new in the country, and the language is new, too. I can't even believe how much at home they've made us feel here, in so little time. When our time comes to move on, we'll be very sad to leave them.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Um. . . so where are you going with this?</span><br />I know this post isn't exactly about personal finances or being thrifty, unless of course you count my passing mention of us walking everywhere (not owning a car) or the fact that we've saved money on food because people keep bringing us stuff. But the whole point of being frugal and minding your financial situation is, ultimately, to be more comfortable, right? I'm not saying having money makes you happy. But I am saying that life's a hell of a lot easier when you don't have a huge debt hanging over your head or when you don't have to worry about how you're going to pay your bills at the end of the month or how you'll ever be able to afford your own home (seriously, can someone fill me in on how the hell people do this?).<br /><br />I've talked a lot about sharing garden produce, tools, rides, etc., in other posts. And I hate to take things back to the kindergarten level, but you know what? It's nice to share. And to be friendly. It's makes everyone more happy.<br /><br />So go make a casserole, already. Pick a neighbor you don't know very well, knock on their door, and make their day. Go ahead. You'll feel good afterward, and you just might make a new friend.<br /><br /><br />Thanks to One Mint for including this post in the <a href="http://www.onemint.com/2009/12/06/economy-and-your-finances-carnival-dec-6-2009/">Economy and Your Finances Carnival</a>.Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-58864829775384950962009-11-23T12:07:00.000-08:002009-11-23T12:13:13.584-08:00And the winner is....Congratulations to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13996548130707588827">Marina</a>, the winner of the <a href="http://fwd4.me/5Xf">DigitalRoom.com rolled canvas poster print</a>. I hope your daughter likes her new wall decoration!<br /><br />Thanks to everyone who entered. More giveaways to come.<br /><br />-WrenWren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4626545975155581763.post-46740732752381817832009-11-16T10:49:00.000-08:002009-11-21T13:25:18.245-08:00Another Easy-to-Win Giveaway: 16”x20” Rolled Canvas from DigitalRoom.com<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz59LK0_1ts9i7pUw__EyrShkNTVRcQhJ4W8-kBOz_FiRWiFCclMvl2ZHU-nwtUhumQS97TvbmM7MiKIH-YqRWXp3ZsPwEvBgwNVa1s4C5q6BVTpxw8Lg5GtVFKuUrksIjYfuCoobQpc/s1600/canvasprint_dr.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz59LK0_1ts9i7pUw__EyrShkNTVRcQhJ4W8-kBOz_FiRWiFCclMvl2ZHU-nwtUhumQS97TvbmM7MiKIH-YqRWXp3ZsPwEvBgwNVa1s4C5q6BVTpxw8Lg5GtVFKuUrksIjYfuCoobQpc/s320/canvasprint_dr.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404778232721578130" border="0" /></a>Just in time for the Holidays, our sponsor <a href="http://digitalroom.com/">DigitalRoom.com</a> is rolling out another giveaway: a 16¨ x 20¨ <a href="http://www.digitalroom.com/Canvas-Printing.html">rolled canvas print</a> (with free UPS shipping to the US, of course). Rolled canvas prints are perfect for home decor, photo prints, and signage. And they make fantastic, thoughtful gifts.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ready to enter? </span><br />All you have to do is <span style="font-weight: bold;">leave a comment on this post telling us </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">what photo gifts you want to have printed for their family and loved ones.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Really want the print?</span> For additional entries, you can do any or all of the following and leave a comment here telling us you've done it:<br /><ol><li>Blog about this giveaway and link to this post and UPrinting.com. (2 entries)</li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.twitter.com">Tweet</a> this: ¨Win a 16¨ x 20¨ rolled canvas print + free shipping! Perfect for home decor, photo gifts, and signage. http://bit.ly/1eWxHw #giveaway¨ (2 entries)</li><li>Follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/TiredoBeingPoor">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/TiredofBeingPoornet/45421422654">Facebook</a>, and/or <a href="http://www.myspace.com/tiredofbeingpoor">MySpace</a>. (1 entry each)</li></ol>Giveaway <span style="font-weight: bold;">ends at noon on November 23rd</span>, so get your entries in quick!<br /><br />We'll <span style="font-weight: bold;">announce the winner</span> on the blog and a coupon code will be sent to the winner’s registered email on November 27, 2009, so if your blogger profile doesn't display your email address, be sure to leave it in your comment.<br /><br />Good luck!<a href="http://trueadventuresinmoneyhacking.blogspot.com/2009/09/uprinting-vinyl-banner-giveaway.html"></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >Thank you to DigitalRoom.com for providing us here at TAiMH with our own free print. It´s awesome. And thanks to UPrinting for hooking us up with them. See their review at <a href="http://www.youthedesigner.com/2008/01/11/uprinting-a-designers-best-friend/">YouTheDesigner</a>.<br /></span>Wren Caulfieldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10396487405768709623noreply@blogger.com5