Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Keeping Your Teens Safe Online



One of the biggest fears that parents have when kids go online is online predators, especially since more than 40 percent of kids have computers in their bedrooms with webcams.
The good news is that your child actually becoming the victim of an online predator is unlikely. The bad news is that according to FBI, “online predators are everywhere online,” and are working hard to engage children online. Predators aren’t scary looking and don’t stand out. They look like you or me or anyone down the street. They are “mostly male, although we are seeing an alarming trend of female predators. Male predators are often married with children. A professional, upstanding in the community but leading a deviant lifestyle through the Internet.”
Parents need to pay attention to their children’s online activity and take preventative measures to protect their children from online predators. No one wants their child to be that victim that we read about in the news all too frequently.

Stats parents should know:

How do predators connect with children online?

Chatrooms are predators' dream come true and are the predominant online location where predators meet kids. Sites like Omegle that invite kids to talk to strangers are a parent's nightmare. Teaching your child not to talk to strangers is one of the first lessons in life that a parent gives their child. There are hundreds of these sites. Kids are naturally curious and many kids visit them thinking it’s no big deal. Kids should not be on these sites, period. They are disturbing and ripe with nudity and explicit disgusting sexual behavior in addition to being havens for predators. Many gaming sites also have chatroom capabilities leaving a child vulnerable to potential exploitation. Many of these sites have webcam functionality. “There are ways to turn the webcam on without you knowing you’re being watched,” said an FBI Special Agent.
Predators can also find kids on Facebook and other social networking sites. They often create a fake identity online and may pose as a teenager, the child never the wiser. Many kids become friends with complete strangers online with 70 percent of kids accepting “friend” requests regardless of whether they know who they are friending. A little less than half (43 percent) of teenagers who first met someone online later met them in real life.
YouTube and other video sites where kids post videos about themselves is another vehicle for predators to find children. The more information kids post about themselves on line the easier it is for a predator to find them. Pictures of kids in school sports uniforms, talking about their school or activity, posting where they are on their status updates, or using Foursquare a geo-location site. There are many opportunities for predators to compile the puzzle pieces to find out more about a child, their tastes in music, TV, and ultimately where they’re located. Many kids are indiscriminate about the information they are posting online, on their social networking profiles for the world to see. According to a Harrisinteractive/McAffee study, more than half of teens (52 percent) have given out personal information online to someone they don’t know offline including personal photos and/or physical descriptions of themselves. Many 13- to 17-year-olds (69 percent) have updated their status on social networking sites to include their physical location28 percent chatted with strangers (people whom they did not know in the offline world) and 12 percent have posted their cellphone number.

After the Predator has made a Connection: Grooming

Adolescence is a time of turmoil for many kids resulting in difficult relationships with parents as they are seeking to be independent adults. This is neither the fault of parents nor kids. Some kids may feel lonely, unsupported, that their parents are too strict, and that no one understands them. They may turn to the Internet and chat rooms to find someone they can talk to and feel a connection with. Unfortunately, this can be a recipe for disaster as predators wait for these vulnerable kids. Predators are master manipulaters and provide the online “pretend” support these kids are looking for to build trust and to verify the child’s feelings. They work at becoming that child’s friend and gaining trust which is known as the grooming process. “It could continue for days or weeks before the pedophile begins bringing up sexual topics, asking for explicit pictures or for a personal meeting. By that time an emotional connection has been made.”
After a nude picture is sent by the child, sometimes sextortion occurs, extortion using sexual images. This recently happened to a Massachusetts 13-year-old who thought she was communicating with a teenager. She sent him a naked photo. This man is 35 and from England. He then threatened her if she didn’t send more naked pictures. Fortunately this man is behind bars.
Another recent case involved a 12-year-old girl. A teacher happened to confiscate this girl’s phone and noticed inappropriate text messages. The 28-year-old man from El Salvador was planning on picking up this girl from school that afternoon. The man had sent her the cellphone; her mom didn’t know she had one.
These stories are alarming and they are real. In both situations, these predators found their victim on Facebook.

What Can Parents Do?

  1. Self education- Learn what kids may be exposed to online – Learn what the risks are.
  2. Communitcating, educating, e-mentoring your kids about:
    • Online risks
    • Chatrooms, game site risks
    • Predators and to be aware of manipulative behavior, gifts, requests for nude pictures, grooming.
    • Predators don’t look scary, they look like you or I, or the person down the street.
    • Teaching your child that if they get in a situation that feels uncomfortable, that they should and can always come to you and that they won’t get in trouble if they do.
    • Only friend people they know on Social Networking Sites
    • Never meet someone they’ve met online without talking to an adult first.
    • Turn off webcam when not in use
3. E-mentor kids online especially when they have a computer in their bedroom. ScreenRetriever enables parents to monitor children’s computer activity live where ever the child’s computer is located in the home including who your child is communicating with using their webcam.
4. Set limits and ground rules about what your child is allowed to do online, sites they visit, information they post, who their friends are on social networking sites, who they are chatting with. Go over the ScreenRetriever tips before they are allowed on the computer.
5. Learn the language your kids use on the computer and cellphone, like A/S/L or GNOC.
6. When your child comes to you with a problem, be there for them, and don’t over react. Many kids don’t tell their parents when they have a problem online because they are afraid they will lose computer privileges.
7. Start e-mentoring early when kids go on the computer so that your family values and rules are ingrained early.
One child caught in the manipulative trap of a predator is one too many. This can be prevented when parents “parent online” and “e-mentor”.

statistics and information gathered from google

Sunday, March 3, 2013

25 Top Heart-Healthy Foods


25 Top Heart-Healthy Foods

  1. Salmon
Omega-3 fatty acids.
Grill salmon with a yummy rub or marinade. Save a chunk to chop for a pasta or salad later on.
  1. Flaxseed (ground)
Omega-3 fatty acids; fiber, phytoestrogens.
Ground flaxseed hides easily in all sorts of foods -- yogurt parfaits, morning cereal, homemade muffins, or cookies.
  1. Oatmeal
Omega-3 fatty acids; magnesium; potassium; folate; niacin; calcium; soluble fiber.
Top hot oatmeal with fresh berries. Oatmeal-and-raisin cookies are a hearty treat.
  1. Black or Kidney Beans
B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate; magnesium; omega-3 fatty acids; calcium; soluble fiber.
Give soup or salad a nutrient boost -- stir in some beans.
  1. Almonds
Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols.
Mix a few almonds (and berries) into low-fat yogurt, trail mix, or fruit salads.
  1. Walnuts
Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; folate; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols.
Walnuts add flavorful crunch to salads, pastas, cookies, muffins, even pancakes.
  1. Red wine Catechins and reservatrol (flavonoids). Toast your good health! A glass of red wine could improve "good" HDL cholesterol.
  1. Tuna
Omega-3 fatty acids; folate; niacin.
Here's lunch: Salad greens, fresh fruit, canned tuna. Keep "Salad Spritzer" - a light dressing -- in your office fridge.
  1. Tofu
Niacin; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium.
Tasty tofu is easy: Thinly slice "firm" tofu, marinate several hours, grill or stir-fry.
  1. Brown rice
B-complex vitamins; fiber; niacin; magnesium, fiber.
Microwavable brown rice makes a quick lunch. Stir in a few chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, spinach).
  1. Soy milk
Isoflavones (a flavonoid); B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate, calcium; magnesium; potassium; phytoestrogens.
Soy milk is great over oatmeal or whole-grain cereal. Or, make a smoothie with soy milk.
  1. Blueberries
Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); anthocyanin (a flavonoid); ellagic acid (a polyphenol); vitamin C; folate; calcium, magnesium; potassium; fiber.
Cranberries, strawberries, raspberries are potent, too -- for trail mixes, muffins, salads!
  1. Carrots
Alpha-carotene (a carotenoid); fiber.
Baby carrots are sweet for lunch. Sneak shredded carrots into spaghetti sauce or muffin batter.
  1. Spinach
Lutein (a carotenoid); B-complex vitamins; folate; magnesium; potassium; calcium; fiber.
Pick spinach (not lettuce) for nutrient-packed salads and sandwiches.
  1. Broccoli
Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); Vitamins C and E; potassium; folate; calcium; fiber.
Chop fresh broccoli into store-bought soup. For a veggie dip, try hummus (chickpeas).
  1. Sweet potato
Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); vitamins A, C, E; fiber.
Microwave in a zip-lock baggie for lunch. Eat au naturale, or with pineapple bits.
  1. Red bell peppers
Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber.
Rub with olive oil, and grill or oven-roast until tender. Delicious in wraps, salads, sandwiches.
  1. Asparagus
Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex vitamins; folate; fiber.
Grill or steam slightly, then dress with olive oil and lemon. It's a pretty side dish.
  1. Oranges
Beta-cryptoxanthin, beta- and alpha-carotene, lutein (carotenoids) and flavones (flavonoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber.
Got orange juice? Check out the new nutrient-packed blends.
  1. Tomatoes
Beta- and alpha-carotene, lycopene, lutein (carotenoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber.
For a flavor twist, try oil-packed tomatoes in sandwiches, salads, pastas, pizzas.
  1. Acorn squash
Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex and C vitamins; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium; fiber.
Baked squash is comfort food on a chilly day. Serve with sautéed spinach, pine nuts, raisins.
  1. Cantaloupe
Alpha- and beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex and C vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber.
A fragrant ripe cantaloupe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, potluck dinners. Simply cut and enjoy!
  1. Papaya
Beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein (carotenoids); Vitamins C and E; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium.
Serve papaya salsa with salmon: Mix papaya, pineapple, scallions, garlic, fresh lime juice, salt and black pepper.
  1. Dark chocolate
Reservatrol and cocoa phenols (flavonoids).
A truffle a day lowers blood pressure, but choose 70% or higher cocoa content.
  1. Tea
Catechins and flavonols (flavonoids).
Make sun tea: Combine a clear glass jar, several tea bags, and hours of sunshine.

Your Guide to Nutrients in Heart-Healthy Foods

Phytoestrogensare substances in plants (like flaxseed) that have a weak estrogen-like action in the body. Studies suggest that flaxseed lowers the risk of blood clots, stroke, and cardiac arrhythmias. It may also help lower total and LDL "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides, and even blood pressure.
Phytosterols are plant sterols that chemically resemble cholesterol -- and seem to reduce blood cholesterol. All nuts and seeds, including wheat germ, have phytosterols.
Carotenoids are heart-protective antioxidants in many colorful fruits and veggies. Alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene are carotenoids.
Polyphenols are another set of antioxidants that protect blood vessels, lower blood pressure, reduce LDL "bad" cholesterol. Flavonoid polyphenols include catechins, flavonones, flavonols, isoflavones, reservatrol, and anthocyanins. Non-flavonoidpolyphenols include ellagic acid (found in all types of berries).
Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish like salmon) and alpha-linolenic fatty acids (found in plant foods like walnuts) help boost the immune system, reduce blood clots, and protect against heart attacks. They also increase good HDL levels, lower triglyceride levels, protect arteries from plaque buildup, are anti-inflammatories, and lower blood pressure.
B-complex vitamins -- like Vitamin B-12 (folate) and vitamin B-6 -- protect against blood clots and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Niacin (vitamin B-3) helps increase HDL "good" cholesterol.
Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage.Magnesium, potassium, and calcium help lower blood pressure. Fiber-rich foods help lower cholesterol levels.

Friday, March 1, 2013

10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication



Last month I came down with flu and went to the doctor. When they took my blood pressure it was 158/118 which is quite high, but they said that the blood pressure can be high when you're sick. After fully recuperating from the flu (which was horrible!) I wanted to check my blood pressure again. I was surprised to see that it was still 158/118. Not good.. I don't want to have to be on medication and was prompted to start surfing the net to see what I could do to bring it down naturally without medication.

I found this article by the Mayo Clinic and the list seems to be pretty achievable. Though there are some that may be difficult to attain such as; Avoiding Stress.. really? How do I do that? Perhaps walking will help in reducing some stress. Avoid Caffeine, I do love coffee but maybe switching to decaf might be a better option. I'll still have the coffee flavor and aroma without the risk.

If lowering blood pressure naturally is something you might be interested in, check out the information below:



10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication

By making these 10 lifestyle changes, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease.

By Mayo Clinic staff

If you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure (a systolic pressure — the top number — of 140 or above or a diastolic pressure — the bottom number — of 90 or above), you might be worried about taking medication to bring your numbers down.

Lifestyle plays an important role in treating your high blood pressure. If you successfully control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle, you may avoid, delay or reduce the need for medication.

Here are 10 lifestyle changes you can make to lower your blood pressure and keep it down.


1. Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline

Blood pressure often increases as weight increases. Losing just 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) can help reduce your blood pressure. In general, the more weight you lose, the lower your blood pressure. Losing weight also makes any blood pressure medications you're taking more effective. You and your doctor can determine your target weight and the best way to achieve it.

Besides shedding pounds, you should also keep an eye on your waistline. Carrying too much weight around your waist can put you at greater risk of high blood pressure. In general:

Men are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 40 inches (102 centimeters, or cm).
Women are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 35 inches (89 cm).
Asian men are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 36 inches (91 cm).
Asian women are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 32 inches (81 cm).

2. Exercise regularly

Regular physical activity — at least 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week — can lower your blood pressure by 4 to 9 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). And it doesn't take long to see a difference. If you haven't been active, increasing your exercise level can lower your blood pressure within just a few weeks.

If you have prehypertension — systolic pressure between 120 and 139 or diastolic pressure between 80 and 89 — exercise can help you avoid developing full-blown hypertension. If you already have hypertension, regular physical activity can bring your blood pressure down to safer levels.

Talk to your doctor about developing an exercise program. Your doctor can help determine whether you need any exercise restrictions. Even moderate activity for 10 minutes at a time, such as walking and light strength training, can help.

But avoid being a "weekend warrior." Trying to squeeze all your exercise in on the weekends to make up for weekday inactivity isn't a good strategy. Those sudden bursts of activity could actually be risky.

3. Eat a healthy diet

Eating a diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products and skimps on saturated fat and cholesterol can lower your blood pressure by up to 14 mm Hg. This eating plan is known as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet.

It isn't easy to change your eating habits, but with these tips, you can adopt a healthy diet:

Keep a food diary. Writing down what you eat, even for just a week, can shed surprising light on your true eating habits. Monitor what you eat, how much, when and why.

Consider boosting potassium. Potassium can lessen the effects of sodium on blood pressure. The best source of potassium is food, such as fruits and vegetables, rather than supplements. Talk to your doctor about the potassium level that's best for you.

Be a smart shopper. Make a shopping list before heading to the supermarket to avoid picking up junk food. Read food labels when you shop and stick to your healthy-eating plan when you're dining out, too.

Cut yourself some slack. Although the DASH diet is a lifelong eating guide, it doesn't mean you have to cut out all of the foods you love. It's OK to treat yourself occasionally to foods you wouldn't find on a DASH diet menu, such as a candy bar or mashed potatoes with gravy.

4. Reduce sodium in your diet

Even a small reduction in the sodium in your diet can reduce blood pressure by 2 to 8 mm Hg. The recommendations for reducing sodium are:

Limit sodium to 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day or less.
A lower sodium level — 1,500 mg a day or less — is appropriate for people 51 years of age or older, and individuals of any age who are African-American or who have high blood pressure, diabetes or chronic kidney disease.
To decrease sodium in your diet, consider these tips:

Track how much salt is in your diet. Keep a food diary to estimate how much sodium is in what you eat and drink each day.
Read food labels. If possible, choose low-sodium alternatives of the foods and beverages you normally buy.
Eat fewer processed foods. Potato chips, frozen dinners, bacon and processed lunch meats are high in sodium.
Don't add salt. Just 1 level teaspoon of salt has 2,300 mg of sodium. Use herbs or spices, rather than salt, to add more flavor to your foods.
Ease into it. If you don't feel like you can drastically reduce the sodium in your diet suddenly, cut back gradually. Your palate will adjust over time.

5. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink

Alcohol can be both good and bad for your health. In small amounts, it can potentially lower your blood pressure by 2 to 4 mm Hg. But that protective effect is lost if you drink too much alcohol — generally more than one drink a day for women and men older than age 65, or more than two a day for men age 65 and younger. Also, if you don't normally drink alcohol, you shouldn't start drinking as a way to lower your blood pressure. There's more potential harm than benefit to drinking alcohol.

If you drink more than moderate amounts of it, alcohol can actually raise blood pressure by several points. It can also reduce the effectiveness of high blood pressure medications.

Track your drinking patterns. Along with your food diary, keep an alcohol diary to track your true drinking patterns. One drink equals 12 ounces (355 milliliters, or mL) of beer, 5 ounces of wine (148 mL) or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor (45 mL). If you're drinking more than the suggested amounts, cut back.
Consider tapering off. If you're a heavy drinker, suddenly eliminating all alcohol can actually trigger severe high blood pressure for several days. So when you stop drinking, do it with the supervision of your doctor or taper off slowly, over one to two weeks.
Don't binge. Binge drinking — having four or more drinks in a row — can cause large and sudden increases in blood pressure, in addition to other health problems.


6. Avoid tobacco products and secondhand smoke

On top of all the other dangers of smoking, the nicotine in tobacco products can raise your blood pressure by 10 mm Hg or more for up to an hour after you smoke. Smoking throughout the day means your blood pressure may remain constantly high.

You should also avoid secondhand smoke. Inhaling smoke from others also puts you at risk of health problems, including high blood pressure and heart disease.

7. Cut back on caffeine

The role caffeine plays in blood pressure is still debatable. Drinking caffeinated beverages can temporarily cause a spike in your blood pressure, but it's unclear whether the effect is temporary or long lasting.

To see if caffeine raises your blood pressure, check your pressure within 30 minutes of drinking a cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage you regularly drink. If your blood pressure increases by five to 10 points, you may be sensitive to the blood pressure raising effects of caffeine.

8. Reduce your stress

Stress or anxiety can temporarily increase blood pressure. Take some time to think about what causes you to feel stressed, such as work, family, finances or illness. Once you know what's causing your stress, consider how you can eliminate or reduce stress.

If you can't eliminate all of your stressors, you can at least cope with them in a healthier way. Take breaks for deep-breathing exercises. Get a massage or take up yoga or meditation. If self-help doesn't work, seek out a professional for counseling.

9. Monitor your blood pressure at home and make regular doctor's appointments

If you have high blood pressure, you may need to monitor your blood pressure at home. Learning to self-monitor your blood pressure with an upper arm monitor can help motivate you. Talk to your doctor about home monitoring before getting started.

Regular visits to your doctor are also likely to become a part of your normal routine. These visits will help keep tabs on your blood pressure.

Have a primary care doctor. People who don't have a primary care doctor find it harder to control their blood pressure. If you can, visit the same health care facility or professional for all of your health care needs.
Visit your doctor regularly. If your blood pressure isn't well controlled, or if you have other medical problems, you might need to visit your doctor every month to review your treatment and make adjustments. If your blood pressure is under control, you might need to visit your doctor only every six to 12 months, depending on other conditions you might have.

10. Get support from family and friends

Supportive family and friends can help improve your health. They may encourage you to take care of yourself, drive you to the doctor's office or embark on an exercise program with you to keep your blood pressure low. Talk to your family and friends about the dangers of high blood pressure.

If you find you need support beyond your family and friends, consider joining a support group. This may put you in touch with people who can give you an emotional or morale boost and who can offer practical tips to cope with your condition.

Original Article can be found here

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Ways to Use Vinegar Around the House



IN THE GARDEN:
1.       Grow beautiful azaleas: Occasionally water plants with a mixture of two tablespoons vinegar to one quart water. Azaleas love acidic soil.
2.       Kill grass on walks and driveways. Pour full strength on unwanted grass.
3.       Kill weeds. Spray full strength on growth until plants have starved.
4.       Increase soil acidity. In hard water areas, add a cup of vinegar to a gallon of tap water for watering acid loving plants like rhododendrons, gardenias, or azaleas. The vinegar will release iron in the soil for the plants to use.
5.       Freshen cut flowers.  Add 2 tablespoons vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar for each quart of water.
6.       Prolong the life of flowers in a vase. Add two tablespoons of vinegar plus three tablespoons of sugar per quart of warm water. Stems should be in three to four inches of water.
7.       Neutralize garden lime. Rinse your hands liberally with vinegar after working with garden lime to avoid rough and flaking skin. Clean pots before repotting, rinse with vinegar to remove excess lime.

BUGS & ANIMALS:
8.       Fish bowl cleaner Eliminate that ugly deposit in the gold fish tank by rubbing it with a cloth dipped in vinegar and rinsing well.
9.       Eliminate animal urine stains from carpet. Blot up urine with a soft cloth, flush several times with lukewarm water, and then apply a mixture of equal parts vinegar and cool water. Blot up, rinse, and let dry.
10.   Deter ants. Spray vinegar around door and window frames, under appliances, and along other known ant trails.
11.   Remove skunk odor from a dog. Rub fur with full strength vinegar; rinse.
12.   Keep cats away. Sprinkle vinegar on an area to discourage cats from walking, sleeping, or scratching on it.
13.   Keep dogs from scratching ears. Clean the inside of the ears with a soft cloth dipped in diluted vinegar.
14.   Keep away fleas and mange. Add a little vinegar to your pet's drinking water.
15.   Keep chickens from pecking each other. Add cider vinegar to their drinking water.
16.   Clean milking equipment. Rinse with vinegar to leave system clean, odorless, and bacteria free without harmful chemical residue.

CARS & TOOLS:
17.   Polish car chrome. Apply full strength.
18.   Clean rust from tools, bolts, and spigots. Soak the rusted tool, bolt, or spigot in undiluted vinegar overnight.
19.   Keep car windows frost free. Coat the windows the night before with a solution of three parts vinegar to one part water.

HEALTH & BEAUTY:
20.   Dampen your appetite. Sprinkle a little vinegar on prepared food to take the edge off your appetite.
21.   Soothe a bee or jellyfish sting. Dot the irritated area with vinegar and relieve itching.
22.   Relieve itching by using a cotton ball to dab mosquito and other bug bites with Vinegar straight from the bottle.
23.   Relieve sunburn by lightly rubbing it with vinegar. You may have to reapply.
24.   Take 1 cup of vinegar and warm water into a large glass and use to rinse your hair after you shampoo. Vinegar adds highlights to brunette hair, restores the acid mantel, and removes  soap film and sebum oil.
25.   You take 1 tablespoon full and swallow when you have the hiccups. It stops them instantly.
26.   Relieve dry and itchy skin. Add 2 tablespoons to bath water.
27.   Fight dandruff, by rinsing with vinegar and 2 cups of warm water, after shampooing.
28.   Soothe a sore throat. Put a teaspoon of vinegar in a glass of water. Gargle, and then swallow.
29.   Cure for colds. Mix one-quarter cup Apple Cider Vinegar with one-quarter cup honey. Take one tablespoon six to eight times daily.
30.   Treat sinus infections and chest colds. Add 1/4 cup or more vinegar to the vaporizer.
31.   Feel good recipe. A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water, with a bit of honey added for flavor, will take the edge off your appetite and give you an overall healthy feeling.
32.   Remove fruit stains from hands. Rub with vinegar.
33.   Remove warts by applying a lotion of half cider vinegar and half glycerin. Apply daily to warts until they dissolve.
34.   Relieve arthritis. Before each meal, drink a glass of water containing two teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar. Give it at least three weeks to start working.
35.   Remove corns by making a poultice of one crumbled piece of bread soaked in one-quarter cup Vinegar. Let poultice sit for one-half hour, then apply to the corn and tape in place overnight. If corn does not peel off by morning, reapply the poultice for several consecutive nights.
36.   Cure an upset stomach by drinking two teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar in one cup water.
37.   Prevent yeast infections. Douche with one tablespoon vinegar to one quart warm water, to adjust the pH balance in the vagina.
38.   Clean dentures by soaking them overnight in vinegar, then brush away tartar with a toothbrush.
39.   Relieve cough by mixing one-half cup Apple Cider Vinegar, one-half cup water, one teaspoon cayenne pepper, and four teaspoons honey. Take one tablespoon when cough acts up. Take another tablespoon at bedtime.

LAUNDRY & OTHER CLOTHES CARE:
40.   Use in laundry to cut soap.
41.   Get rid of lint in clothes. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle.
42.   Prevent lint from clinging to clothes: Add one cup vinegar to each wash load.
43.   Keep bright colors from running. Immerse clothes in full strength vinegar for 10 minutes before washing.
44.   Freshen up the washing machine. Clean the hoses and unclog soap scum. Once a month pour one cup of vinegar into the washing machine and run the machine through a normal cycle, without clothes.
45.   Brighten fabric colors. Add 1/2 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle.
46.   Take grease off suede. Dip a toothbrush in vinegar and gently brush over grease spot.
47.   Remove tough stains. Gently rub on fruit, jam, mustard, coffee, tea. Then wash as usual.
48.   Get smoke smell out of clothes by adding a cup of vinegar to a bath tub of hot water. Hang clothes above the steam.
49.   Remove perspiration stains from clothes by applying one part vinegar to four parts water, then rinse.
50.   Deodorant and anti-perspirants stains may be removed from clothing by lightly rubbing with distilled vinegar and laundering as usual.
51.    Cotton and wool blankets become soft, fluffy and free of soap odor if 2 cups of distilled vinegar are added to the rinse cycle of the wash.
52.   Clothes will rinse better if a cup of vinegar is added to the last rinse water. The acid in vinegar is too mild to harm fabrics but strong enough to dissolve the alkalis in soaps and detergents.
53.   When dyeing fabric, add a cup full of distilled vinegar to the last rinse to set the color.
54.   Nylon hose will look better and last longer if 1 tablespoon of vinegar is added to the rinse water when washing.
55.   To obtain a sharper crease in your knit fabrics, dampen them with a cloth wrung out from a solution of 1/3 distilled vinegar and 2/3 water. Place a brown paper bag over the crease and iron.
56.   Excess laundry suds that develop during hand laundry may be eliminated by splashing a little vinegar into the second rinse. Follow this with another rinse in plain water.
57.   Deodorize a wool sweater: Wash sweater, then rinse in equal parts vinegar and water to remove odor.
58.   After a hem or seam is removed, there are often unsightly holes left in the fabric. These holes can be removed by placing a cloth, moistened with distilled vinegar, under the fabric and ironing.
59.   Unclog steam iron by pouring equal amounts of vinegar and water into the iron's water chamber. Turn to steam and leave the iron on for 5 minutes in an upright position. Then unplug and allow cooling. Any loose particles should come out when you empty the water.
60.   Clean a scorched iron plate by heating equal parts vinegar and salt in a small pan. Then rub the solution on the cooled iron surface to remove dark or burned stains.

CLEANING IN THE KITCHEN:
61.   A mixture of salt and vinegar will clean coffee and tea stains from chinaware.
62.   Put vinegar on a cloth and let sit on the back of your kitchen faucet and it removes hard water stains.
63.   Vinegar can help to dissolve mineral deposits that collect in automatic drip coffee makers. Fill the reservoir with vinegar and run it through a brewing cycle. Rinse thoroughly with water when the cycle is finished. (Be sure to check the owner’s manual for specific instructions).
64.   Brass, copper and pewter will shine if cleaned with the following mixture. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of distilled vinegar.
65.   Clean the dishwasher by running a cup of vinegar through the whole cycle once a month to reduce soap build up on the inner mechanisms and on glassware.
66.   Deodorize the kitchen drain. Pour a cup down the drain once a week. Let stand 30 minutes and then flush with cold water.
67.   Unclog a drain. Pour a handful of baking soda down the drain and add 1/2 cup of vinegar. Rinse with hot water.
68.   Eliminate onion odor by rubbing vinegar on your fingers before and after slicing.
69.   Clean and disinfect wood cutting boards by wiping with full strength vinegar.
70.   Cut grease and odor on dishes by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to hot soapy water.
71.   Clean a teapot by boiling a mixture of water and vinegar in it. Wipe away the grime.
72.   Clean and deodorize the garbage disposal by making vinegar ice cubes and feed them down the disposal. After grinding, run cold water through.
73.   Clean and deodorize jars. Rinse mayonnaise, peanut butter, and mustard jars with vinegar when empty.
74.   Get rid of cooking smells by letting a small pot of vinegar and water simmer on the stove.
75.   Freshen a lunchbox by soaking a piece of bread in vinegar and let it sit in the lunchbox over night.
76.   Clean the refrigerator by washing with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
77.   Clean stainless steel by wiping with vinegar dampened cloth.
78.   Clean china and fine glassware by adding a cup of vinegar to a sink of warm water. Gently dip the glass or china in the solution and let dry. Get stains out of pots by filling the pots with a solution of 3 tablespoons of vinegar to a pint of water. Boil until stain loosens and can be washed away.
79.   Clean food-stained pots and pans by filling the pots and pans with vinegar and let stand for thirty minutes. Then rinse in hot, soapy water.
80.   Clean the microwave by boiling a solution of 1/4 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water in the microwave. Will loosen splattered on food and deodorize.
81.   Prevent soapy film on glassware by placing a cup of vinegar on the bottom rack of your dishwasher, run for five minutes, then run though the full cycle.
82.   The minerals found in foods and water will often leave a dark stain on aluminum utensils. This stain can be easily removed by boiling a solution of 1 tablespoon of distilled vinegar per cup of water in the utensil. Utensils may also be boiled in the solution.
83.   Unsightly film in small-necked bottles and other containers can be cleaned by pouring vinegar into the bottle and shaking. For tougher stains, add a few tablespoons of rice or sand and shake vigorously. Rinse thoroughly and repeat until clean or determined hopeless.
84.   After cleaning the bread box, keep it smelling sweet by wiping it down with a cloth moistened in distilled vinegar.
85.   To eliminate fruit stains from your hands, rub your hands with a little distilled vinegar and wipe them with a cloth.
86.   Grease buildup in an oven can be prevented by wiping with a cleaning rag that has been moistened in distilled vinegar and water.
87.   Formica tops and counters will shine if cleaned with a cloth soaked in distilled vinegar.
88.   No-wax linoleum will shine better if wiped with a solution of 1/2 cup of white vinegar in 1/2 gallon of water.
89.   Stains on hard-to-clean glass, aluminum, or porcelain utensils may be loosened by boiling in a solution of one part vinegar to eight parts water. The utensils should then be washed in hot soapy water.

COOKING IN THE KITCHEN:
90.   Prepare fluffier rice by adding a teaspoon of vinegar to the water when it boils.
91.   Make wine vinegar by mixing 2 tablespoons of vinegar with 1 teaspoon of dry red wine.
92.   Make buttermilk. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk and let it stand 5 minutes to thicken.
93.   Replace a lemon by substituting 1/4 teaspoon of vinegar for 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
94.   Firm up gelatin by adding a teaspoon of vinegar for every box of gelatin used. To keep those molded desserts from sagging in the summer heat.
95.   Debug fresh vegetables by washing them in water with vinegar and salt. Bugs float off.
96.   Scale fish more easily by rubbing with vinegar 5 minutes before scaling.
97.   Freshen vegetables. Soak wilted vegetables in 2 cups of water and a tablespoon of vinegar.
98.   Boil better eggs by adding 2 tablespoons water before boiling. This keeps them from cracking.
99.   Marinating meat in vinegar kills bacteria and tenderizes the meat. Use one-quarter cup vinegar for a two to three pound roast, marinate overnight, and then cook without draining or rinsing the meat. Add herbs to the vinegar when marinating as desired.

IN THE BATHROOM:
100.  Kill germs on bathroom fixtures by using one part vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle. Spray the bathroom fixtures and floor, then wipe clean.
101.   Soap and stain build up can be removed from chrome and plastic fixtures if they are cleaned with a mixture of 1 teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of distilled vinegar.
102.  Clean soap scum, mildew, and grime from bathtub, tile, and shower curtains. Simply wipe the surface with Vinegar and rinse with water.
103.  Stubborn stains can be removed from the toilet by spraying them with vinegar and brushing vigorously. The bowl may be deodorized by adding 3 cups of distilled vinegar. Allow it to remain for a half hour, then flush.
104.  Unclog a shower head by unscrewing it, remove the rubber washer, place the head in a pot filled with equal parts Vinegar and water, bring to a boil, then simmer for five minutes.
105.   Corrosion may be removed from showerheads or faucets by soaking them in diluted distilled vinegar overnight. This may be easily accomplished by saturating a terry cloth towel in vinegar and wrapping it around the showerhead or faucet.
106.  Bath tub film can be removed by wiping with vinegar and then with baking soda. Rinse clean with water.

MISCELLANEOUS:
107.   Use vinegar in the steam cleaner to reduce soap bubbles.
108. Mix vinegar with linseed oil and use it to clean your wood.
109. Clean eyeglasses by wiping each lens with a drop of vinegar.
110.  Soak new propane lantern wicks in vinegar for several hours. Let dry before using. Will burn longer and brighter.
111.  Deodorize the air. Vinegar is a natural air freshener when sprayed in a room.
112.   Turn a chicken bone into rubber by soaking it in a glass of vinegar for three days. It will bend like rubber.
113.   Deodorize a room filled with cigarette smoke or paint fumes. Place a small bowl of vinegar in the room.
114.   Remove decals or bumper stickers by soaking a cloth in Vinegar and cover the decal or bumper sticker for several minutes until the vinegar soaks in. The decals and bumper stickers should peel off easily.
115.   Cleaning windows by using undiluted Vinegar in a spray bottle. Dry off with newspaper.
116.  Prevent patching plaster from drying by adding one tablespoon vinegar to the water when mixing to slow the drying time.
117.   Plastic can be cleaned and made anti-static by wiping down with a solution of 1 tablespoon of distilled vinegar to 1 gallon of water. This will cut down on the plastics' tendency to attract dust.
118.   The colors in carpets and rugs will often look like they have taken a new lease on life if they are brushed with a mixture of 1 cup of vinegar in a gallon of water.
119.   A mixture of one teaspoon of liquid detergent and 1 teaspoon of distilled vinegar in a pint of lukewarm water will remove non-oily stains from carpets. Apply it to the stain with a soft brush or towel and rub gently. Rinse with a towel moistened with clean water and blot dry. Repeat this procedure until the stain is gone. Then dry quickly, using a fan or hair dryer. This should be done as soon as the stain is discovered.
120.   Spots caused by cola-based soft drinks can be removed from 100 percent cotton, cotton polyester and permanent press fabrics if done so within 24 hours. To do it, sponge distilled vinegar directly onto the stain and rub away the spots. Then clean according to the directions on the manufacturer's care tag.
121. Sponging away grease and dirt with a sponge dipped in distilled vinegar will keep exhaust fan grills, air-conditioner blades and grills dust free.
122.   Leather articles can be cleaned with a mixture of distilled vinegar and linseed oil. Rub the mixture into the leather and then polish with a soft cloth.
123.  To loosen old glue around rungs and joints of tables and chairs under repair, apply distilled vinegar with a small oil can.
124.  Soak a paint brush in hot vinegar, then wash out with warm, sudsy water to soften it up.
125.  Patent leather will shine better if wiped with a soft cloth which has been moistening with distilled vinegar.
126. To add a pleasant scent to a room while at the same time removing an unpleasant odor, add cardamom or other fragrant spice to a bowl of distilled vinegar and place in the warmest corner of the room.
127.  Varnished wood often takes on a cloudy appearance. If the cloudiness hasn't gone through to the wood, the cloudiness can be removed by rubbing the wood with soft lint less cloth wrung out from a solution of 1 tablespoon of distilled vinegar in a quart of lukewarm water. Complete the job by wiping the surface with a soft dry cloth.
128.  Dirt and grime can be easily removed from woodwork with a solution of 1 cup of ammonia, 1/2 cup of distilled vinegar, and 1/4 cup of baking soda in a cup of warm water. This solution will not dull the finish or leave streaks.
129.   Stubborn rings resulting from wet glasses being placed on wood furniture may be removed by rubbing with a mixture of equal parts of distilled vinegar and olive oil. Rub with the grain and polish for the best results.
130.  Wood paneling may be cleaned with a mixture of 1 ounce of olive oil and 2 ounces of distilled vinegar in 1 quart of warm water. Moisten a soft cloth with the solution and wipe the paneling. The yellowing is then removed by wiping with a soft, dry cloth.

Crock-Pot Roast Chicken


Although I work at home, dinner is still a daunting chore at times. I'm always looking for ways to make dinner easier and more achievable to avoid the temptation to hit the drive-thru or take-out. I found this recipe for Crock-Pot Roast Chicken and wanted to give it a try. I don't normally do a whole chicken in the crock-pot because I don't like how it gets watery, which tends to make the chicken taste bland.

I found this recipe interesting because you brown it before putting it in the crock-pot. The picture below is after the browning process when I put it in the crock-pot to cook for the rest of the day. I'm excited to see how this recipe turns out!



Crock-Pot Roast Chicken
(Original recipe found here)

1 whole chicken (pick a size that will fit in your slow cooker)
2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. dried thyme (or any desired seasoning)
1/2 onion
3 cloves of garlic
1 carrot

Directions:
1. Wash chicken and remove giblets then pat inside and outside dry with a paper towel.
2. Mix salt, pepper and thyme together in a small bowl.
3. Massage seasonings into the chicken inside and out.
4. In a large skillet put the olive oil in and wait for it to get hot. (medium heat will do)
5. Place the whole chicken in pan to brown on all sides. (takes about 7 mins. on each side)
6. Dice onion, celery and carrot into 1 inch pieces.
7. When chicken is browned to your desire place onion, garlic and carrot into the body cavity of the chicken.
8. Place chicken into your crock pot to cook the rest of the day. Cook on low heat for 8 hours. (time will vary due to the size of the chicken)

Friday, February 22, 2013

Chinese Minute Chicken

I love Minute Chicken, there is a Chinese in town that is my favorite. But, going out to eat as we all know is costly. Especially with a family of 4. So I searched the net for a recipe to make my own and I found this one. It's simple, fast and delicious! What's even better is that it tastes just like the one I love at Royal Garden. 



Chinese Minute Chicken
  • 3 to 3-1/2 pounds chicken, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/3 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions

  1. Add pepper, 1/2 tsp minced garlic and flour to chicken.
  2. Mix and let stand 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Heat oil and 1/2 tsp minced garlic in large heavy skillet until sizzling hot.
  4. Add chicken, stir fry until brown.
  5. Lower heat, add chicken broth or water.
  6. Let simmer 5 minutes.
  7. Add oyster sauce, sugar and green onions.
  8. Serve hot