Home & Garden Tips
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Home Every Day? Don't Vegetate!
If you do not work out of the house, it doesn't mean you don't work. There are, however, times when you find your self sitting at idle. There are things you can do aside from vegetating. Really!
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Home is Where The Art is
Whether it's fine art, folk art, or crafts, we all like to display some sort of art in our homes. From frames to posters, we're going to discuss our favorite art.
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Charcoal or Gas; The Great Debate
It's barbeque season and the debate is on, again. Some folks swear by charcoal. For them nothing else will do. Others wouldn't use anything but propane gas. There are some purists that will use only wood. So which is best?
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No Lawn Gardening Alternatives
If you live in an apartment, a townhouse, or if you live in the inner city, you may think you can't have a nice garden. Not true, you can and I'm going to get you started planning your no lawn garden.
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Conversions; Measuring Up to The Job
In this day and age, when we are relying more on the Internet to do our shopping, we may get confused with the different measurements in different countries. I have put together some of the most used measurements and their converted counterparts.
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Homemaker; The Unsung Hero
Homemaker, housewife, or domestic engineer; which ever you choose they are the world's most unsung heroes. If you are one, sit back and relax. If you live with one, pay attention. We're going to take a look at what they do to keep the home fires burning.
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Start a Memory Garden
There is a plot, in your garden, that needs some work. Or there is a cozy corner where a little garden would look just perfect. Remember the Victory Gardens? All turn my thoughts to a memory Garden.
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The "Tribe's" Storyteller
Native Americans have had a wonderful, and important, tribe member. They were, and are, the Storyteller. They learn of the tribes past and commit to memory the present, for future generations. They tell the tribes younger members about their past, ensuring the they learn from the pasts mistakes and triumphs.
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Home And Garden's Easter and Celebrations Past
Easter is on its way, and we all could use a celebration refresher. I've gone through H&G's Archives and picked these articles to help. If you're thinking of entertaining this Easter you will want to reread these articles.
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Spring; Is There Really Such a Thing?
OK, it's March, spring is just days away, and I'm in the middle of our second Nor'easter snowstorm of the week. If we don't get some warm weather soon, we'll have snow for Easter. Where is spring?!
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Stock Up; It's Spring Cleaning Time!
OK, technically spring is still a few weeks away. Well Now is the time to start your cleaning. So you can enjoy the spring. We're going to be talking about what to stock up on, not on the actual cleaning.
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St. Patrick's Day in My back Yard
I am lucky to live in an area that really knows how to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. From green ski slopes to must have corned beef and cabbage, you can find it all in my part of New York State...
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Oh! That's What That's For
Do you have something that was your grandmother's? Something you always used for what you guessed it was for? Me too, and I'm always shocked when I learn what it's intended use is.
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And Miles to go Before I Sleep
My nice quiet existence has, the past few days, been turned Topsi tervy. My Husband Greg has Policystic Kidney and Liver disease.
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Seed Catalogue Do's and Don'ts
Well let's get right down to the dirt on seed catalogues. Here is a simple little trick I use when shopping the catalogues.
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Bringing Winter Inside Part Two: The Displays
Who says that when the holidays are over we're done decorating? Not me in fact, I look at my Christmas free house as a fresh new pallet. Once the Santas, Poinsettias, and Nativities are gone, it's still winter. So why not celebrate the crisp season inside as well as out?
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Bringing Winter Inside; Part One, Gathering
Mother Nature just loves showing off, and wintertime is no exception. Beside beautiful snowy vistas, and frost crystals on the windows, there are some winter naturals you can bring inside and enjoy.
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As Seen on TV
We've all seen them, the ads that tout the greatest invention since sliced bread. We watch the commercials and infomercials with wide eager eyes, as the spokesperson tells us of the widget's wonderful abilities. But are they really that wonderful?
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Combat the Post Holiday Blues
It's easy to feel let down when the decorations come down and the presents are put away. There are ways to make sure you don't fall into the holiday blues. With a little thought and a bit of creativity, you can breeze right through the post holiday days.
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So Long 2000, Welcome 2001
Ah, the end of another year. Whether or not it was a good one, we always reflect on the year-gone bye. I have done that and here is what has stuck out in my memory.
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H&G's Christmas' Past
I have written so many helpful and inspiring articles for Christmas' past. Please take some time to revisit them.
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Christmas by Scratch
How wonderful, it's your first Christmas in your first house or apartment. You want everything to be perfect. But, you have bills to pay and money is a little light. Or, you just don't know where to start. Either way, I can help you Celebrate your first Christmas just the way you want to.
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Surfing the Web This Holiday Season
Where can you find exactly what you are looking for this Holiday season? On the Web of course, but with Hundreds of thousands of different sites who has the time? Well I took the time to find some of the Web's best, interesting and fun Holiday sites. So, get that mouse in gear, get ready to catch a wave. We're going holiday surfing!
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Its A Wrap; Wrapping up The Holidays
Giving the perfect gift is so exciting; why not present it in an exciting manner. A little ribbon here, some fabric there, an ornament, artificial fruit, all easy and spectacular. With a few of my ideas and your creativity, you can give stunning packages.
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Candy Making 101
Everyone has a favorite candy. Whether it's creamy chocolate or salty peanut brittle, wouldn't it be great to make it your self? Homemade candy is great for guests and makes the perfect gift. So let's learn some basics and get some delectable recipes.
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Let's Talk Turkey
Thanksgiving is on its way, and many of you will be cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the first time.Well I have many years experience cooking and serving this magnificent feast. So calm down, and I'll walk you through it step by step.
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Halloween Treats All Day
If you're like me, a few hours of trick or treating just isn't enough on Halloween. I like to spread the treats through out the day. This year's menu is tasty and tempting. Try one, two or the all of these yummy recipes.
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Haunting the Ghosts and Goblins
There is always that one house, every October. You know the one. They go all out decorating for Halloween. Or they create the scariest buildup to getting those treats.
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Easy Halloween Costumes!
These costumes are not only easy to make, they're easy to wear as well. With a few craft items, a thread and needle and some tape and glue, your kids will have costumes to be envied.
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The Prepared Pantry
Whether it's a wonderful walk-in pantry, or two cabinets in your kitchen, we all have some sort of pantry. Stocked properly, you will be ready for a spur of the moment meal, or a snowed in weekend.
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To Your Health
So many folks, these days, are into eating and drinking healthy. That's great, but you should know about the new things you may be trying. I have chosen a couple of today's popular choices, Green tea and St. John's Wort.
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A Roast by Any Other Name Would Smell as Delicious
Well, it's that time of year, in these parts. The weather is colder and our pallets crave hearty foods. Nothing is heartier than a roast. Whether it's Pot Roast, Roast Beef, Roast Pork, or a Ham, we love them. But it's hard to know how to cook them.
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Autumn Memories
Every year, when the air carries a chill, I wax nostalgic for Autumns gone bye. This year isn't any different.
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Communal Gardening, Could be the Way to Go
Most folks think of hippies when they hear the words communal gardening. Well, you don't have to belong to a commune, or wear tie dyed cloths. All you need is a few people who want to garden, but like you don't always have the time.
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Where's That Darned Sock? And Other Musings
Please indulge my attempt at "Sit Down" comedy. I'm in one of those moods, so there's no telling what I'll be discussing. So sit back and enjoy. Oh, you had better put down that coffee, so it doesn't get spit onto your monitor.
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Summer Fun for Kids
What to do when the kids say," There's nothing to do!" Well have then try this fun Fractured Fairy Story.
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Cooking with Flowers
Are you looking for a new way to wow your dinner guests? Try cooking with flowers. Flowers can add a special flavor, or a beautiful presentation.
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ON TURNING 40
I will be turning the big 40, on June 29th. Now this isn't a pathetic plea for birthday greetings. Although they are appreciated. No, This article is my take on turning the dreaded 40 years old. So light me a candle, and frost the cake, because I'm going to be telling you all some of my thoughts.
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Your Garden Oasis
Big or small, your garden is your oasis. Gardening is meant to be a form of communing with nature, relaxing, reflecting and getting away from it all for a while.
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Cooling Summer Soft Drinks
Looking for something a little different, to quench your summer thirst? Well I've dusted off my old recipe files, and have found some real taste sensations. So dig out the straws and paper umbrellas, and get ready to satisfy those taste buds.
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An Interesting Gardening Glossary
I have been busy looking up unusual and interesting gardening terms. Some may be familiar, some new, some odd, and all are interesting. So sit back and we'll have some fun with this garden glossary.
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EEK! Bugs
Ah Spring. Budding plants, blooming flowers and BUGS. Yup they're all over, and sometimes in places you don't want them to be, like in your garden. I've taken a creepy look at the most common pesky critters.
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Plant a Mother's Day Tree!
What could be better? Giving a gift to Mom, Mother Nature, and future Generations. It's possible to do all of that, with one foul swoop. Plant a Mother's Day tree.
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Start Your Active Lifestyle
OK, you're loosing weight, and getting fit. Now it's time to choose an active lifestyle that's just right for you. From mall walking to mountain climbing, and everything in between, there is something for everyone.
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FROGS; Everyone a Prince or Princess
You have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find a prince. NOT! Actually, if you’re a gardener they are all princes. Or princess’ as the case may be.
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Easters Spirit; Past Present and Future
I know the spirits of the past present and future usually show up at Christmas. Well, this year they are going to help me get into the Easter spirit. Yes, there is an Easter spirit, and I’ve got it. Both spiritual and festively.
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More Making Candles 101
Boy, my first candles article is still my most popular. I guess I’m not the only one who loves candles. And, their not too hard to make. This time we’ll make dipped candles and alternative poured candles. Let’s get right to it.
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Spring Reflections
At the beginning of every season I like to sit and reflect. Spring is no different.
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Saving $$ in The Kitchen
We all cringe when we look at our grocery receipts. Many of the things that make that total so high, can be made for pennies. Yes, you can make it your self, and save money! I have put together some of my favorite secrets. Sure I’ll share them with you.
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The Language of Flowers
I know what you’re thinking, "I’m no good with languages". That’s OK, this one is easy. We all know our favorite flowers, but did you know they all mean something? That’s right, most flowers and plants have special meanings.
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The Mighty Dandelion!?
We all have either a love for dandelions, or a hatred for them. If you belong to the later group, I just might be able to change your mind.
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Random Acts of kindness and Other Niceties
Doesn’t your day feel a little brighter when someone holds a door open for you? Or even getting a smile from the checkout clerk? Sure it does. Well, wouldn’t it also make you feel good to know that some little thing, you have done, makes someone else happy?
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Emergency 411
Any good scout worth their salt know to, Be Prepared. That’s good advice for all of us. We never know when we will be hit with a devastating "act of God". From flash floods, to tornadoes, you just never know if you will be hit next.
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Painting 101
Are you tired of your dull walls? Craving some color? Or brightness? Can’t afford professional painters? Well. Do it your self. Even if the only painting you have ever done was with your fingers, you can paint your walls. Just follow some easy rules and you can transform any room in one afternoon.
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Hey Doc, it Hurts When I do This…..
We’ve all heard the joke; Hey Doc, it hurts when I do this. And the doctor says; Then don’t do that! Well it might be funny, but it is also true. We really need to ask out doctors questions. We also need to listen to the answers.
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Redecorate or Remodel? That is the Question
It’s a question we all ask, at one time or another. Your house is getting smaller. Or it sure feels like it. Do you really need to add on, or remodel? Or, would a little rearranging and redecorating do the trick? Both good questions. Both worth some serious thought....
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The Seed Catalogs are Here!
As I write this article, my home is filled with seed and gardening catalogs. They’re every where. There are some in the living room, in the bed room, even in the laundry room.
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Math in The Kitchen
I hate to admit it, but my 8th grade math teacher was right. I would need math in the future. Who knew? She did, of course. I now use math every day, in the kitchen.
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Citrus, It's Not Just for Breakfast Anymore
Today’s citrus is less spotted and more beautiful. So, is it any wonder it has become an such a popular craft supply? Dried correctly, citrus can make a beautiful addition to floral arrangements, natural crafts, and even package ornaments.
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Good-bye 1999, Hello 2000!
This year, for the first time, I have pondered the past year. I have also been wondering about the next. Here are some of my ponderings, waxings, and events I feel worth talking about.
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The Night Before Christmas, My Way
This story is for everyone who, at times, wish the holidays away. I too have felt that way. In fact, one year caused me to write this story. So please read it, enjoy it, and let it help you through the hustle and bustle of the holiday season....
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A Christmas Tree in Every Room
Why just settle with one Christmas tree? With a little creativity and some imagination, you can have a tree in every room. We’ll go room to room, creating special trees for each one.
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Holiday Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting is a big part of many folks holiday season. For some it’s a tradition. For others, it’s a treat for the neighbors. Yet there are some that take outdoor illumination very seriously. Remember Clark Grizwald, from National Lampoon’s Christmas vacation?
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Flea Market Treasure; Recipes!
Not too long ago I was at my favorite Flea Market. I was rooting through the books and found an old recipe book. It was the type with pockets, for your own recipes. To my delight, It was filled with recipes....
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Inspirational Green Thumb Award
The winner of this year’s Home and Garden Inspirational Green Thumb Award is, Lilo Ducommun. She is a treasured member of Suite101, and quite an inspiration.
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Holiday Planning Lists
I know how hurried and frazzled you can get planning your Holiday activities. I have created a few easy to use lists, to make things a lot easier this year.
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Stress Free Festive Family Gatherings
Well the Holidays are coming up fast. Where did the year go? Anyway, I’m here to help everyone have stress free family gatherings. Really! So get out the note pads, clean off your glasses, and listen with an open mind.
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Celebrating Native Americans
November is Native American month, in the US. Since I’m part BlackFoot, I thought I’d give you some of the wonderful ideas of my people.
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The Spirit of Halloween Past
In my thirty eight Halloweens, I have had some very memorable ones. They were fun, spooky, scary and all are etched in my mind.
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A Spooktackular Halloween Party
As many parents are opting to give Halloween parties, for their Kids. In some places it’s just safer to not go trick or treating. If you’re one of those parents, or a teacher looking for special party ideas, You’ve come to the right place. We’ll create the most Spooktackular Halloween Party ever.
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A Harvest of Autumn Ideas
Yea! It’s Autumn, and time to pull out a little warmth. For the house. With some wonderful earth tones, comfy throws, and some Fall things, you can make your house all warm and fuzzy.
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A Harvest Celebration
Well the harvest is nearly done, at Shady Acher Farm. Here's what's going on, this Fall, at the farm.
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Autumn Reflections 1999
Autumn. Just the word makes my spirits soar. September 23rd is the Autumnal Equinox, the first day of Autumn. I celebrate it every year. I never miss a one. It’s the start of my favorite season.
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Staying Forever Young
Aside from the obvious. Like eating well and taking care of your health. There are many ways to stay forever young. As many ways as there are ages.
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Taking Stock, out in the Garden
By now all of your gardens should be in full swing. Early plants have gone, and the Summer ones are producing. Now is the time to take stock. You need to record the successes and total bombs, in your gardens.
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Creative Storage Ideas for Craft Supplies
Anyone who does crafts knows, supplies can pile up everywhere. No Matter how hard we try to keep up with them, there is always something you don’t know where to put. I have come up with some pretty creative ideas for storing my craft supplies.
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Herbal Teas for Beginners
It has become, more and more, easy for everyone to make their own tea blends. You can grow the herbs in pots, on a deck or patio. Or, go all out with a traditional herb garden.
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No Body Made it Like Grandma
Everyone gets the warm and fuzzies when they remember Grandma’s specialty dish. Whether it was a desert or a full blown meal, we loved them.
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Staying Cool,While Staying in Shape
When the weather gets hot, We tend to get a little lazy. Who wants to work out in high heat? I do a two hour workout every day, and I have a hard time when it’s hot and steamy. I’m going to share my Keeping Cool tips. So you, too, can workout and stay cool.
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Are You a Gardener?
When you hear the word manicure, do you thing of your Lawn? Then you're a Gardener.
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Homemade and Homedried Potpourri
We all know how expensive store bought potpourri can be. Then your stuck with someone else’s idea of a good blend. Why not make your own? It isn’t hard and will save you lots of money.
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Getting the Most out of Your Herb Garden
Whether you only grow Basil and Parsley, or all of your culinary herbs, you want to get the best out of your herb garden. Every part of most Herbs are useable. For one thing or another. I’ll let you in on some of these uses. Some just might surprise you.
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How I use Suite101.com
Just in case any of you don’t travel around Suite101, I’m going to tell you about some of it’s great resources. I know it looks like I spend all of my time here, but I love to surf the Suite.
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Mom I’m Bored!
It’s on it’s way. It’s coming on fast. It’s Summer Vacation. The kids will be home from school, and looking for something to do.
What’s a parent to do? Well, you could schedule a nervous breakdown. Or, you can try a few of my, Summer, boredom busters. All are fun and educational. But don’t worry, your kids wont even know their learning.
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Our Editor in Chief: On Our Anniversary
It all began in June, 1996 when i5ive Communications Inc quietly put up a Web site. We had one Contributing Editor, 11 members (friends of the staff), and a few paragraphs of information
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HELP! I’m Dieting, and I Want to Give Up!
As some of you already know, I am on a diet. Not some fad diet. I found something that works for me. This article isn’t to teach you my diet. It’s to give other dieters some tips, to help them stay on the right path.
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WHAT’S NEW For the Home and Garden?
What a wonderful world we live in. There are always mew and improved things coming to a store near you. I have done a little homework, and have come up with some new things for your Home and Garden.
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LETTER WRITING: A Lost Art
Not so long ago, before technology made our lives easier, people wrote letters. An art that seems to have gone the way of the pet rock and saving bottle tops.
Why not rekindle that art? Come find out why you should.
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INSIDE OUT - OUTSIDE IN: A Spring Spruce -Up
The days are getting longer, the weather is getting nicer, and your house needs a lift.
I’m not really talking about Spring cleaning. I’m talking about Spring sprucing up. Sweeping out the doldrums of winter, and bringing Spring inside.
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Celebrate Earth Day!
April 22 is Earth Day. For me everyday is Earth Day. OK, you can call me an old Hippie, or a flower child, I don’t mind. I am those things. Come see how you and I can celebrate Earth Day.
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Hooray for Bats!
Bats, there not just for Halloween any more.
OK, Their a little creepy, they look a little scary, and they are usually known as " little flying rodents". But I beg you to take another look. They really are beneficial. They just haven’t found the right PR firm yet. Or have they?
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Day Trip: Outlet Malls
Everyone loves a bargain, and one of the best places I know to find a bargain is the Outlet Malls.
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Great Easter Doings
Easter is one of those holidays that lets us celebrate all sorts of good things. Naturally, the first celebration is the Resurrection of Christ. This is the real reason or Easter. However, their are other things we celebrate on this special day.
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Remember the Fluffernutter?
Every one of us has a fond food memory. Whether it’s mom’s baked Mac n’ cheese, or a cheese dog, we get the warm fuzzies when we remember those childhood meals.
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Edible Theme Gardens
Many of my Edible gardens have themes. I try to grow things together, that I use together. It’s really easy and they make great conversation pieces. In this week’s article I’ll share some of them with you.
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Cabin Fever Book Reviews
The winter months often lead to cabin fever. I have reviewed some useful books and magazines for your reading pleasure.
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Time to Plan Your Veggie Garden
It may be February, but it's time to plan your Veggie Garden. From the plan to the seed purchase, I'll help you get ready for Spring Veggies.
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Decorating Candles 101
You’ve just bought a dozen plane white taper candles, on sale. Now they look a little too plane. Don’t stash them in the junk drawer, Decorate them.
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An Irish American St. Patrick’s Day
Get a head start. Come celebrate my Irish American St. Patrick's Day. From decorations to my famous Corned beef and Cabbage, there's a lot to see.
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A Workspace Of Your Own
Tired of using the kitchen table as a desk, or sewing table? Have I got some space makng ideas for you.
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January White Sales
The white sales are on. Here are some tips for bringing home the best and the right stuff.
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Netiquette 101
Net etiquette, it's new and needed. If you don't want to make a cyber space faupa` you'll want to read this one.
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How I Planned My Holidays
See how I planned My Holidays this year. From January to December, My plans take all year. Wonder why? Read the article and see why it takes me so long.
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Autumn-ize Your Home
Bring the warmth of Autumn in to your home. A splash of this and a smattering of that, will bring some warmth to this chilly season.
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Ghosts & Goblins, Tricks & Treats
Memories of Halloweens gone by and plenty of ideas for this years celebrations. Spooky decorations and yummy party fare,will help you enjoy the most magical night of the year.
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Autumn Reflections
Autumn around my Shady Acher Farm. Walk to the creek and visit geese, rake leaves and eat apples, and get a few decorating ideas.
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Hoses and Tables and Chairs, Oh My!
Putting your outdoor Summer things away for the winter. Where and how to do it. Recipe of the month,Honey Roasted Chicken with Harvest Veggies.Craft project of the month,Tin Can Pumpkins.
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Moonlight Entertaining
Fun under the moon .Entertain by moonlight- for two or a crowd. A little work on the set, some good hearty recipies, and you can enjoy your own Moonlight Entertaining.
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Day Trip: A Visit to the Orchard
Come with me on a shopping trip to an apple orchard. You'll be suprised at what you can find there.Check out my apple recipe, and september's craft project.
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Candle Making101
Making basic candles. Tips, Safety talk, instructions on making your own candles.Regular features, Recipe of the month and craft project of the month.
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Meet Me at the Fair
What you can learn at the fair.From cows to fire trucks.There's a lot to learn, the fun way.
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Day Trip: Flea Markets
Take a trip to my favorite Flea Market. Find out a few trick of the trade,on finding and paying what you want.
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Give a Garden Tea
Give a garden tea. Where,how, table setup,cookie recipe,vanilla sugar recipe,the invitation to the centrpiece.
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