Green Grandma

Motivated by love

2012-01-28T00:36:00.000-05:00

Gloom and doom are not necessary components of the message that needs to be brought to people about caring for creation. Trying to frighten ourselves into action is far less preferable than working to care for creation out of a love for the Creator in gratitude and joy.

Our working in and for creation, however, ideally, should not be out of a sense of impending doom, but from a deep love and obedience to Earth's Creator, Redeemer, and Reconciler.

-- Calvin B. DeWitt

Au Sable Institute

Vinegar Friday

2012-01-27T01:00:00.002-05:00

TGIVF??

Are you happy it's Friday? I always have mixed feelings about it. I never seem to accomplish what I want to during the week, so the weekend is met with a certain level of disappointment. Anyone else feel that way?

Well, regardless of how I feel about it, it's here. Another Vinegar Friday. So, what shall we talk about today? How about our bodies? Or, more specifically, the following conditions:

urinary tract infection (UTI)
fungal infection
muscle strain
inflammation
joint pain
arthritis
tendonitis
bursitis
gout
eczema
sunburn

What do the above have to do with vinegar? Well, apple cider vinegar can actually help with all those conditions. But we're not talking taking it internally, although that would help as well. No, this time we're talking about soaking in it.

Now, let me tell you, I am a sucker for a hot bath. It is at the very top of my list for favorite things to do. And, as pointed out in my book, Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays, it works well to soften my skin. But I just found out that soaking in a vinegar-infused warm bath can help cure gout. That's good news for folks like my husband, who suffers with an occasional bout of it.

Why does it help? Apparently, ACV baths are affective in a few different ways:

help restore normal pH balances in the skin
naturally detoxifies
draws excess uric acid out of the body

When it comes to UTIs, the ACV works by killing off any bacteria in the urethral opening. That's why it is effective with yeast infections as well.

There is a warning involved with all of this, however. Due to the detoxifying properties of ACV baths, some people do experience flu-like symptoms (feeling achy, etc.). This just means your body is responding the way it should to the treatment.

The "recipes" for ACV baths vary from 1/2 cup to 2 cups in a tub of warm water with a 20 minute to 45-minute soak. If you're concerned about the strong smell of vinegar, add some essential lavender oil and create a true aromatherapy session in your bathroom. Ahhhh.

As I'm writing this late at night (in the early hours of Vinegar Friday), all I can think about right now is climbing into a hot bath.

So with that said, I bid you a wonderful day/night and a truly grand weekend.

Keeping it green and healthy with vinegar,

Hana

BPA lurking in your cupboard

2012-01-26T00:01:00.002-05:00

Are you concerned about BPA leaching out of plastic food packaging? Yeah, me, too. That's why I'm trying to switch over to food storage containers made of glass or stainless steel. Admittedly, I still have some plastic containers in my fridge right now, however. Of course, I never, and I mean never, heat anything up in the microwave in plastic. Even on the rare occasion I eat a frozen meal, I pop it out of the plastic it's in and put it in a microwave-safe glass bowl. It just makes sense to me.

Actually, I don't use my microwave often anymore. It scares me a bit. I generally reheat things on the stove in my GreenPans.

But taking all these precautions doesn't do much good if the food I'm eating is coming out of a can lined with bisphenol-A, right? But, how do you know if a can contains BPA, and why would it anyway?? After all, it's metal. Yeah, that's what I thought. Unfortunately, I was wrong, and the fact is that most canned food is poisoned by BPA. The worst leaching occurs in canned food that is salty, fatty or acidic (like tomato sauces, soups, etc.) Crap.

The more I learn, the angrier I become. And the more I long for summer and local farmer's markets. Even if I go to the store and avoid the canned goods section, I'm still picking up meats and produce packaged in styrofoam and BPA-laced plastic wrap. Crap. Crap. CRAP!!!!! What are these food manufacturers trying to do to us?

And don't even get me started about BPA in infant formula!!

Why am I so worked up about BPA? Well, because I don't want breast cancer, for one, and bisphenol-A is strongly linked to it. Cancer and reproductive issues, ADHD, immune system damage, and ... get this ... OBESITY!! So, perhaps it's not how much you're eating that's making you fat. It might just be the packing it came from!! And that might explain part of the reason obesity is not such an issue in countries where the residents buy fresh food at the markets.

According to Breast Cancer Fund's website, here are the top 10 canned foods to avoid (unless they are in cans specifically marked BPA-free):

Coconut milk (I hate coconut ... so far I'm safe)
Soup (well, there goes that!)
Meat (I generally don't buy canned meat -- SPAM is in my email, not in my cupboard)
Vegetables (but I really like canned mushrooms)
Meals (Uh oh, Spaghettios!)
Juice (is there anything safe about juice these days??)
Fish (canned fish isn't a problem in our home, either)
Beans (I stick to fresh or frozen here)
Meal-replacement drinks (this is almost humorous -- let's skip the meal to lose weight, but pack on some extra BPA pounds!)
Fruit (I love, love, love canned fruit)

Is there anything left?? This list was compiled after testing 300 products.

Feeling rather helpless, I did take the time to contact Del Monte, General Mills and Campbell Soup and ask them to let me know what they are doing to address this serious issue. After all, I wrote, I know you care about what goes into the bodies of your kids. I also told them I have a blog that focuses on healthier living and am looking forward to sharing with my readers what steps the companies are taking to get BPA out of their cans. It will be interesting to see if I get a response.

If you would like to contact them, there is a form letter you can send from the Breast Cancer Fund website. I encourage you to take the time to send an email to all three companies.

You can also check out this list of foods sold in BPA-free cans. Thank you, The Soft Landing, for making this list available! This is a worthy-of-checking-out website. Loads and loads of information to help you raise healthier kids!!

Not wanting to scare you, but sharing what I know,

Hana

Review it Wednesday -- and it's something safe for EVERY body!

2012-01-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

When I heard Earth Mama Angel Baby was coming out with lip balms, I jumped on it!

"Send me some to review!" I pleaded. Well, I didn't exactly plead, because I didn't have to. But I was prepared to, if necessary.

No more Angel Baby Bottom Balm on my lips anymore, I thought. Hurray!

So, let me tell you -- I was not disappointed. Of course, the sweet mamas at EMAB could have sent me one to try. That would have been satisfactory. But no, they sent me all three delectable flavors. Well, they sent me all three flavors ... two of which I find delectable. The third one is questionable, only because I haven't tried it. After all, it's coconut and I hate coconut. So I'm saving that one for someone who likes it. Fair enough? Besides, I felt I could do a fair review by just sampling two of the flavors -- Lavender Meringue (light as a cloud with a hint of vanilla) and Mint Herbal (classic and beloved ... for kissable lips), with the latter being my favorite. The Coconut Smoothy, described as vanilla tinged and silky, just doesn't appeal to me.

There is lots to love about these lip balms, first of which is the fact that they live up to the EMAB policy of zero toxins. Sweet.

The mint is stimulating and the lavender is calming. Both do their job to soften my lips and take away the winter burn I was experiencing the day the package arrived in the mail. I guess that's the part that matters most to a lot of you -- Does the product deliver on its promise? Yes, in this case, it does.

Here's the technical stuff you need to know (directly from the website):

Every Earth Mama Herbal Lip Balm is 100% Natural, vegan, smooth and yummy, and safe for EVERY body, even pregnant mamas!

NO Petrolatum
NO Artificial Flavoring
NO Artificial Colors
NO Artificial Preservatives
NO Toxins, ever!

Can you say the same thing about the lip balms you use? Or is it something you've never thought of before? Hmmm. Let's see. Putting stuff directly on our lips without thinking about the ingredients (and possible toxins). Not really bright of us, is it? And notice -- I said "us," because it's not something I've really looked into before. Sure, I've been using Burt's Bees and Aveda's lip balms and just assuming they're safe, but I never really looked into it ... until now.

Here's what I found out (from EWG's Skin Deep Safe Cosmetic Database):

Aveda Lip Saver (2005 formula) rates a 5 out of 10 for toxins. Let me say that again: Aveda Lip Saver (2005 formula) rates a 5 out of 10 for toxins. Ouch. Get that crap off my lips now!

I don't know about you, but it really disturbs me that I can't even trust Aveda to provide safe products. Isn't that why I pay so much for them? Granted, that is the 2005 formula. Unfortunately, I can't find data on the current formula. But just knowing there were that many toxins in their products back then, doesn't give me a lot of confidence in their products now.

That's how the Aveda Lip Saver rates. But what about Burt's Bees?

Okay, that's a bit better. But still, the Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm still rates a 2 out of 10.

How does the Earth Mama Herbal Lip Balm stack up? Oh yeah, zero toxins. Let me repeat that: zero toxins. I could keep using my Aveda Lip Saver (5), my Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm (2) or my brand new Earth Mama Herbal Lip Balm (0). I wonder what I'll choose? What would your choice be?

Well, here are the lists of ingredients for all 3 lip balms:

Mint Herbal Lip Balm: Olea Europaea (organic olive) seed oil, Theobroma cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Butyrospermum Parkii (organic shea) butter, Mentha viridis (organic spearmint) leaf oil, Mentha pipperita (organic peppermint) leaf oil, Calendula officinalis (organic calendula) flower extract

Coconut Smooth Lip Balm: Cocos nucifera (organic coconut) Oil, Theobroma cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Cocos nucifera (organic coconut) flavor, Vanilla planifolia (organic vanilla) flavor, Calendula officinalis (organic calendula) flower extract

Lavender Meringue Lip Balm: Olea Europaea (organic olive) seed oil, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Butyrospermum Parkii (organic shea) butter, Vanilla planifolia (organic vanilla) Flavor, Lavandula officinalis (organic lavender) flower oil, Calendula officinalis (organic calendula) flower extract

Would you like to try some out for free? Well, maybe you can, because the super sweet mamas at EMAB are going to send a set of all 3 flavors to 1 lucky GG community member (U.S. resident only)! Don't you just love giveaways?!

Here's what you need to do in order to win:

Either 'follow' GG here on the blog or 'like' GG on Facebook and 'like' Earth Mama Angel Baby on Facebook or sign up for their email newsletter, You Herb it Here.

You have to let me know (either here or on FB) that you 'liked' EMAB or subscribed to their newsletter, or I won't know that you did. Keep in mind that you're not just getting involved with EMAB so you can win something. You're doing it because they are one of the most awesome companies around ... a company that cares about you, your family and your unborn children. You certainly can't say that about most other companies, no matter how cute their packaging or advertising campaigns may be!

With a special apology to our Canadian community members, the contest is open to U.S. residents only. As always, the winner will be chosen via Random.org. Contest closes at midnight (EST) on Monday, January 30th. The winner will be announced here on the blog and must respond by emailing me within 5 days of the announcement.

Reviewing it for you with extra soft, extra kissable lips,

Hana
(think I'll go find my hubby for another opinion) ;-)

And just so you know ... EMAB did send me the lip balms for free. They wanted my opinion and I posted it here. It's my honest-to-goodness opinion.

And the winner is ....

2012-01-24T19:30:00.000-05:00

According to Random.org,

the winner of the Envirosax giveaway is ...

'Cali Hicks!!

Plus, since 'Cali had more than 10 entries, she will also receive a Green Grandma reusable cloth bag!

Congratulations, 'Cali!

Email your address to me

and I'll put your prizes

in the mail.

This giveaway was not hosted by Envirosax. I did not receive any free products to review or giveaway.

The peaceful kingdom

2012-01-24T13:31:00.000-05:00

I've been spending a little bit of time 'unwinding' from having company for the past week. It was a good week, but I found I needed some time to myself this morning after they left, so I soaked in the tub and read for awhile, ate a leisurely breakfast, washed the sheets and towels, and sat in the recliner, praying and reading. Now, I'm sitting in that same recliner, with a cat sleeping across my legs and a couple of candles burning on the table beside me. It's quiet, it's warm and it's lovely.

I was reading from the book of Isaiah this morning and wanted to share this passage with you because I found it to be beautiful and encouraging. I hope that it speaks to your heart as well. Isaiah 11:6-9:

The wolf shall live with the lamb,
the leopard shall lie down with the kid,
the calf and the lion and the fatling together,
and a little child shall lead them.
The cow and the bear shall graze,
their young shall lie down together;
and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp,
and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder's den.
They will not hurt or destroy
on all my holy mountain;
for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD
as the waters cover the sea.

Isn't that marvelous. The peaceful kingdom, as it was designed to be and will be again.

I hope this imagery will carry you through the day.

Looking forward to the day when the earth is no longer polluted and we all will live in peace,

Hana

...to visit orphans and widows in their distress

2012-01-23T00:57:00.000-05:00

"This is true and undefiled religion/worship

in the sight of our God and Father:

to visit orphans and widows in their distress..."

-- James 1:27a

Photo by Shari Weinsheimer

Never was this passage from the book of James truer to me than during the period of time following my husband's death in 1989. The amazing people in my life who came up beside me and ministered to my children and me were practicing acts of worship every time they

listened to me talk about Jim
held me while I cried
babysat my children
shared a meal with me
called me on the phone
sat with me at church
made me laugh
made my children laugh
forgave me
mowed my lawn
brought me groceries
brought me flowers (loved that!)
remembered a birthday/anniversary/special date
sent me a card

The list could go on and on. True religion. True acts of worship. In the sight of our God and Father.

If you read last week's Vinegar Fridays' post, you know what we've been going through lately. Our "true worship" has been put to the challenge, and I hope we've fulfilled our high calling in Jesus Christ. We've visited. We've laughed. We've cried. We've shared meals. We've shoveled snow. Etc., etc., etc.

Do you know who was blessed by this? We were. There is nothing more fulfilling than being used by God to minister to the needs of others. Especially when those needs are the needs of dear friends. Especially when those same dear friends did all of the above for me when I was the widow and my children were the orphans.

Today, we spent a couple of hours at the funeral home. Before we left, I stood and watched the widower (my friend's father) sit in his wheelchair beside the casket staring lovingly at his wife of 68 years. I approached him to say goodbye:

"Your bride looks beautiful," I said softly into his ear, with my hand on his shoulder.

"Yes, she does. Just like I remember her," he replied. "I'll never forget the first time I saw her. She was 'it' for me right then ... and always was."

I smiled at him. "You were a good husband to her," I said, making a feeble attempt at comfort.

"It takes a good wife to make a good husband," he said simply.

"You were so lucky to have each other," I managed to get out before a tear rolled down my cheek.

"Yep. We were."

They were indeed. Oh to be that lucky. To know that kind of lifetime-love. To be cherished that much. Wow. Forget Angelina and Brad, Tom and Katie. This earth has lost one of its supercouples. Because, let's face it, one-half is never a whole.

Sharing my Sabbath with you,

Hana

A new heaven and new earth

2012-01-21T17:02:00.001-05:00

Photo by Larisa Larisa

The earth and everything in it is included

in God's plan of redemption.

Creation does not pass away,

but is restored and renewed as part

of the new heaven and the new earth of God's kingdom.

-- The Green Bible Trail Guide

A different kind of Vinegar Friday

2012-01-20T13:15:00.000-05:00

Photo by Petr Kratochvil

The phone woke me at 4 a.m. this morning. That is never a good thing.

Earlier in the week, my friends who live in Virginia received the news that Mike's mom (who lives here in Pittsburgh) was dying. The doctor said that it would be a matter of hours. Of course, doctors tend to exaggerate things, don't they? It wasn't hours, it was days. However, in the early hours of this morning, she passed away. Thus the phone call.

On the other end of the line was Mike's sister, calling to let them know she was gone. Mike and Kathy were asleep in our family room and just didn't hear their cell phone ringing. So his sister called the house, which was perfectly fine at a time like this. Mike and Kathy got dressed, cleaned the snow off the car and headed to the hospital. Then they drove to the physical rehab center to break the news to Mike's father.

This is the part of the story that makes me cry. About a month or so ago, Mike's 91-year-old dad fell backwards down the escalator at Northway Mall. For those of you who know the mall, you know the escalator I'm talking about! It's two times as high as regular ones. After 68 years of being by his wife's side (except during the war when he was serving on a submarine), he was taken to a rehab center to recover from his multiple injuries. It was during this time his beloved wife (who was blind, by the way, and so dependent on him), became ill and died. Doesn't that make you want to cry? It does me. I find it to be so very sad.

While he did speak to her on the phone, he was not able to travel to the hospital to see her for a final goodbye.

This story reminds me so much of another sad, sad time in my life nearly 12 years ago. My friend's father was dying of esophageal cancer. He made numerous trips to Pittsburgh for treatment. On one particular occasion, as he lay in a hospital bed 130 miles or so from home, his perfectly healthy wife died. It was such a shock to the family. I didn't even believe it when my friend called to tell me the news. I joined him at the hospital to break the news to his father, and then, the next day, we traveled back to Ridgway with him so he could attend his wife's funeral. What a nightmare. I will never forget wheeling the grieving widower over to the casket at the church and watching as his hand lightly caressed the smooth wood.

Twenty-two days later, he died at home with a hospice nurse, three of his children and me surrounding his bed.

I cry even now with memories of that time. And I weep with anticipation of watching Mike's dad struggle, both physically and emotionally, through the funeral of his beloved bride.

So you see, today is a different kind of Vinegar Friday. I just simply don't feel like writing about vinegar. And I'm pretty sure you understand.

Sharing my heart,

Hana

Blood stains on the nation

2012-01-19T10:50:00.001-05:00

As the anniversary of Roe v. Wade approaches, I wanted to repost the following. If nothing else, I hope it makes you think.

There was a horrific time in our history when black people were not considered fully human. The rationale was that if they weren't human, white people could 'own' them, abuse them, kill them, etc. Why would it matter if they weren't human anyway?

Thank God for people like William Wilberforce who tirelessly worked to abolish slave trade in Great Britian. If you haven't seen the movie Amazing Grace, rent it and learn about this hero.

What Wilberforce did for the slaves, we need to stand up and do for the unborn. The common rationale is that they're not fully human (unless they're wanted), so we can kill them at leisure...it doesn't really matter. Or does it?

We love to twist truth to satisfy our wants and supposed needs.

So on this anniversary of a Supreme Court decision that rocked our nation and cost us the lives of over 50 million human beings, we need to stop and reflect on the reasons why. Why do we feel we have the right to take innocent life? Why does our government assume we, as taxpayers, want to pay for abortions? Why do we not get it?

The situation is no different than the slave trade. It was all about people's self-centered thinking and need to satisfy their own desires.

Is an unplanned pregnancy difficult? Of course it is! Does it change a person's life? Yes, it does. But it's not just about the pregnant mother. A new life has been created and who has the right to decide to end that life?

Mother Teresa said, "But I feel that the greatest destroyer of peace today is abortion, because it is a war against the child - a direct killing of the innocent child - murder by the mother herself. And if we accept that a mother can kill even her own child, how can we tell other people not to kill one another?...Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching the people to love, but to use any violence to get what they want. That is why the greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion."

Indeed. The dehumanization of black people led to hideous crimes against them. In the same way, the dehumanization of the unborn leads to our accepting and advocating the killing of innocent lives. The blood stains on our nation for both atrocities makes me wonder how it is we're still standing. God forgive us.

Hana

Review it Wednesday -- What do others have to say about Vinegar Fridays?

2012-01-18T00:01:00.002-05:00

Since I'm always posting my opinions about other products and books, I thought I'd reverse it this week and give you a glance into what others are saying about my book, Vinegar Fridays.

Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino of the Best Ever You Network, recently awarded VF with the Blue Ribbon Award!

Elizabeth writes:

The book just isn't about cleaning with vinegar though. It is about many other uses for it such as keeping rabbits out of your garden, taming the frizzies in your hair and more.

But above all, Green Grandma "Hana" is a really great writer. Hana really has a knack for words and good sentences, so really the book could be about anything and it would be a winner because of Hana's writing touch.

Click here to read more of the Best Ever You Blue Ribbon review.

Toni, the Chic Mama gave another glowing review:

Hana Haatainen Caye, also known as The Green Grandma, has written "Vinegar Fridays," a book filled with the wonderful uses of vinegar. I absolutely love the book's description, "A splash of vinegar with a dash of personality." The book, "Vinegar Fridays," is such an easy read, many thanks to Hana's personality jumping off the pages. Let me tell you, this book is not your Grandma's book about vinegar. Ummm, well, actually it is, but this Grandma's book is way better!

The first thing I noticed about "Vinegar Fridays" is that all of the information is compiled in such an organized way. For example, each chapter pertains to a specific use of vinegar. One chapter is regarding the beauty uses of vinegar: "Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder." Another chapter is regarding the many health benefits of vinegar: "Vinegar - For The Health Of It." This organization truly makes finding specific uses for vinegar around your household easy peasy.

Want more? Read the rest of Toni's kind review here. Sorry, but someone already won the contest and received a signed copy of Vinegar Fridays, but you can still buy it!

If you head over to Because I Said So (and Other Mommyisms), you'll have the chance to read the most thorough review of the book. It seems as though Meg tried nearly every tip in the book ... and posted pictures to demonstrate the effectiveness of these tried and true vinegar-related remedies! Like this pee-stained carpet --

before

and after

Meg has more pictures and more to say about the book ... lots more. Including this:

There is literally, something for everyone in this book. Several tips could easily fit into more than one chapter, so I found myself wishing there was an index for easy reference.

Oops. Oh yeah, an index. Something I should have taken the time to included, but didn't. However, I am working on one now, and it will be included in future printings. I am also going to make an index available for download, so those who already have books can simply print it up and stick it in the back of the book.

Meg's review is a fun and informative read. If you haven't had the chance, I highly recommend checking it out. I guarantee you'll learn something!

Jodee, from Multi Healing Balm, gave another glowing review.

If your new year’s resolution is to clean up your act whether it to be more eco friendly, healthier, happier, more energetic or to lose weight then Vinegar Fridays should definitely be on your read list. The green grandma takes you through every room in the house even giving your beauty supply an overhaul in an often funny, easy to read style. Although I thought of Vinegar Fridays as more of a reference book I promise those ‘dedicated’ will find it hard to put down.

While you're on Jodee's site, take the time to check out one of the most amazing products I've ever come across -- Multi Healing Balm. And if you want to read more about what I think about this product, click here for the review I posted back in November.

Wanda, of Scratch That, mentioned the need for an index as well. But she had some other really nice things to say about the book. Her review is quite comprehensive, too.

The book itself is a very quick read. Hana condenses a lifetime's worth of tips into 72 pages. Each of the 19 chapters is just a few pages long, so it's quite easy to breeze through them. Hana's personality comes through as well, making me giggle at times. I've never met her in real life, but I feel like I know her from reading her blog, and her book feels just the same. She introduces us to her family in this book and tells how these tips have helped her whole family, right on down to her grand-kids.

The Green Grandma community has become like a family to me, so this book is my gift to you, my family. I've gotten to know some of you through the blog and Facebook page, and you, have become well-acquainted with me. As Wanda says, the book is written in the same style you've come to expect from me. I didn't change my style for the sake of "a book." Basically, what I did was put all the info I'd shared with you (plus some) and compiled it in a book to make it easier for you to make the switch from toxins to vinegar.

I hope you will take the time to read the book and let me know how much your enjoyed, or didn't enjoy, it. I love feedback! So let me know.

I so appreciate the kind words these gracious reviewers shared. If you have a website, blog, radio or television program, or podcast and would like to receive a copy of Vinegar Fridays to review, email me and I'll send out a copy.

Let's make every day a Vinegar Friday!

Keeping it green with vinegar,

Hana

Anything to stop the crying!

2012-01-17T02:16:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned yesterday, I'm going to be bringing old posts to the forefront this week (which in the blogisphere is an absolute no-no ... oh well). Here's a post I did two years ago on soothing a colicky baby. If you have a crier in your home, I hope something here will help!

~~~~~~~~~~

My grandson, Lincoln James

Nothing soothes the soul like the sound of a colicky baby. Well, perhaps there's not much truth in that. Actually, there's no truth in it. The sounds that emerge from your usually sweet little one when he or she has a bellyache can be heart-wrenching. So what's a parent (or grandparent or caretaker) to do?

While your doctor might offer other suggestions, such as prescription drugs (which may be necessary), here are some natural remedies that just might work to help you and your baby enjoy some quiet time.

Rock-a-bye baby. The motion of rocking can calm a gassy belly and cause your little one to actually pass the gas. Settling into a rocking chair with mommy might do the trick. A swing can work wonders as well; just make sure your baby is at least 3 weeks old before placing him or her in a swing.

The sounds of silence ... NOT! Oddly enough, a colicky baby isn't looking for some peace and quiet. The gentle roar of the vacuum cleaner or the swishing of your dishwasher is somehow soothing to little ones with upset tummies.

Warm and cozy. Throw a towel or fuzzy blanket into the dryer to warm it up. Then place it across your infant's abdomen. The heat is soothing and might be all that is needed.

On the road again. If all else fails, get out the car seat, strap in your little one and hit the road. This used to be a tried and true remedy for the average folk, but with the escalating gas prices, it seems to be reserved for those who have either fat bank accounts or hybrid cars!

If you have any other ideas for home remedies for colic, please post a comment. I love to share readers' comments with other parents out there searching for answers to common issues.

Keeping it green and healthy,
Hana

Derailed by rearranging, undecorating, piles of fur and mouse poop

2012-01-16T10:37:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had days when you just felt like crying because there was too much to do? That's what I'm facing today. I just want to crawl under the covers and go to sleep rather than dealing with the daunting to-do list on my desk. The to-do list that is somewhat buried under a pile of papers, books, bills, etc. that all need to be sorted through. Bottom line ... my office is a mess. Again.

So is the rest of the house, unfortunately. Bill and I decided to do some major rearranging this weekend. And when I say 'weekend,' I mean the entire weekend, minus our time at church yesterday. Thus, there was no "Sabbath rest" for me. It's rather interesting, I think, how overwhelmed I feel today. Is that because I didn't take the time to rest and recreate over the weekend? Most likely. But we really didn't have another option. Once we started on this project, there was no turning back and no slowing down.

We have a relatively small dining room. It is plenty big enough for us, but when you add our daughters and their families, it gets, well, a bit tight around the table. The folks seating along the wall are trapped there until the end of the meal, because the end chairs are literally against the china cabinet and opposite wall. Not fun. So for Thanksgiving and Christmas, we moved the dining room table into the living room, and half of the living room furniture into the dining room. It worked well for the holiday meals. But it was a pain to do, and we decided something permanent had to be done. Our next family gathering will take place in our new spacious dining room.

We moved the china cabinet -- oh my goodness -- the dirt and dust accumulated after many years of not going behind it was enough to spur on allergies in my husband and an asthma attack in me. We had enough fur back there to recreate some of the beloved pets that are no longer with us. I mean, seriously, who moves their china cabinet ever?? The last time we moved ours was in 2004 when the room was painted.

Moving a china cabinet is no easy task. First we had to empty it. Then, of course, I had to whip out my Norwex cloths and clean the glass shelves and doors, etc. I must say, it looks rather sparkly now. Which is a good thing, since it's now the focal point of what was once our living room!

That was the one good move. Then we came to some issues. Like what to do with a too-big couch, recliner and large swivel rocker with an ottoman. The furniture simply didn't fit in the "new" living room. Crap.

Yes, we knew that going into it. We're not total idiots. But we still thought things would work out a little better than they have.

Conclusion? Well, of course, this involves more work. We have another room in our downstairs that is used for one of those "catch-all" rooms. Those of you whose kids have moved away probably know what I'm talking about here. After going through many transitions, from bedroom to two different daughters to office to remnants of old office when I moved upstairs and didn't want to tote all my stuff along with me. Now what we have is a 'remnants of old office' mixed with coat room mixed with toy room (for storing, not playing) mixed with Christmas decoration packing up room. In other words, a nightmare. And we've decided that's where the couch is going!!

But before that can happen, a whole heck of a lot of work has to be done first. We have to finish taking down the Christmas decorations (which we only started doing on Saturday as we were moving furniture), pack everything up in the attic, and sort through the piles of papers, books and other office stuff that accumulated from 2002 until 2009, including 5 years of papers from meetings for the Pregnancy Care Centers of Pittsburgh, where I was on the Board of Directors. For the most part, the papers have to be shredded, as the info from board meetings was confidential. Once we have the room cleaned out, we have to rip up the nasty carpeting that bears then evidence of an old and dying dog that couldn't control his bladder.

Then, we can put down a new rug and move the couch into the room. There's already a TV and cable in there. So that will be our new "den" and playroom for the kids. But in order to get it ready, we need time, something we don't have a lot of of.

Thus, my morning tears. I feel overwhelmed. Especially when I open an email and discover I completely forgot to complete a project for a client and he's "wondering if I can complete it soon." I'm sure I wrote it down, but then, there's that mess on my desk.

To top all of that, last night before going to bed, I discovered the little brown pieces of evidence that a mouse was visiting my kitchen drawers!! Can somebody please explain to me why they don't put backs on kitchen cabinets before attaching them to the walls?!

Guess what I have to do this morning? You got it. I have to wash all my silverware, and other miscellaneous kitchenware that was once clean but now might have mouse pee on it. Then I have to sanitize the drawers. And we're talking a couple of hours of work I hadn't planned for the day.

So why the long blog post, if I'm so darned busy? Simply because I needed to rant!! And to explain why I'll be using some old posts over the next few days, as I need a break from writing the blog, but don't want you to take a break from reading it. Make sense?

And with that, I think I'll go downstairs and face the mouse poop. I hope you have a lovely day and that next Monday, I'll be able to write about resting on the Sabbath once again (although, I'm pretty much thinking that's a pipe dream at this point!).

Sharing my lack of a Sabbath with you,

Hana

A huge warehouse of stuff ... or is it?

2012-01-14T11:24:00.000-05:00

"Our present ecological crisis, the biggest single practical threat to our human existence in the middle to long term, has, religious people would say, a great deal to do with our failure to think of the world as existing in relation to the mystery of God, not just as a huge warehouse of stuff to be used for our convenience."

- Rowan Williams

Vinegar Friday

2012-01-13T13:10:00.000-05:00

TGIVF!

It's a snowy, blustery vinegar Friday in Pittsburgh! Fortunately for me, I don't have to go anywhere. I'm working at home, as I usually do, but today, I'm wishing vinegar could perform its magic on my Comcast email account. I haven't been able to open any emails today. I can see the list of them. I can see how important some of them are. But I cannot open them and I want to scream. Spraying vinegar on my laptop clearly would not help the situation. Neither will a call to Comcast, which I already tried. They're having "issues" with email. No crap.

Anyway, it's Vinegar Friday, and I'm sure you didn't drop in to listen to me gripe. You came on by for some good ol' fashioned vinegar tips, right? How about a vinegar recipe instead? It just seems like a good day to cook.

Photo by Ellen Sholk

Vinegar Chicken and Herbs

2 1/2 - 3 lbs. chicken pieces

1 large onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. each of a variety of favorite dried herbs (basil, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, etc.)

1 TBSP vegetable oil

1 16 oz. can tomatoes, drained and chopped

1/2 cup catsup

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar

salt and pepper to taste

Saute the onion, garlic and herbs in oil in heavy skillet until onion is tender. Add tomatoes, catsup, vinegar, salt and pepper. Top mixture with chicken pieces and bring liquid to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 40 - 45 mins. Baste chicken several times during cooking.

Remove chicken to a warmed serving platter. If you want a thicker sauce, mix a little bit of cornstarch to an equal amount of water and slowly pour mixture into the sauce. Stir and simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.

Serve over pasta or rice.

Yum. Can't wait to make dinner tonight! Let me know if any of you try this out tonight as well.

Enjoy your weekend, and of course, your Vinegar Friday!

Keeping it green and yummy with vinegar,

Hana

Darned-If-You-Do, Darned-If-You-Don't

2012-01-12T10:21:00.001-05:00

I am host of a radio show on KQV in Pittsburgh. Last week on the Lange Money Hour, we were privileged to have as our guest, the wonderfully wise and well-spoken, Neale Godfrey, author of 26 books that deal with money, life skills and value issues. Her groundbreaking book, Money Doesn't Grow on Trees: A Parent's Guide to Raising Financially Responsible Children, hit #1 on The New York Times Best Sellers list.

After the show, which I found extremely informative, I contacted Neale and asked her if she would be willing to share some of her wisdom and insights with the GG community. She not only agreed, but surprised me with a program of hers I didn't even know about! The following post by Neale provides some valuable insight for parents and grandparents.

Neale Godfrey

To learn more about Neale, her books, and her philosophy, visit her website or look up her many books on Amazon.com. You can also find Neale on Facebook, Twitter, and on her blog.

***

In the United States, we're a nation of "stuff." We want stuff, we produce stuff and then we throw away stuff away and call it "garbage." We used to burn a lot of garbage until it was pointed out that we were polluting the air. So we doused the fires and started creating "landfills" of garbage. However, they attracted flies and rodents, smelled awful, and, guess what... they still caused pollution. So, what was our next idea? We put our garbage on barges and sent it to places where we thought people might not notice or care.

Every day, the earth's population grows; creating a demand for even more stuff that will eventually end up as garbage. What's a consumer to do? It's "Darned-If-You-Do, Darned-If-You-Don't" dilemma. Even worse, it may cause a reaction of, "I'll be wrong no matter what I do, so I'll do nothing."

Since we all have contributed to the Earth's problem, it's up to all of us to accept responsibility and then do something to change our ways. In short, we have to take ownership for what we've done and we hope that you can ECHO to your kids that they need to "step up to the plate," as well.

We are a nation of stuff, and we are willing to pay for innovations that save time effort. These same innovations supposedly increase our standard of living, yet-if you're anything like me-I feel like I spend even more time and effort dealing with them!

These things are happening even if you don't think about them. So, we don't really have the option to drop out. You have to stay engaged, be a responsible parent and grandparents and ECHO to your kids, your community, and the world.

That is one of many solutions that I have created. I want to empower children and their families' to take charge of their financial lives.

I created the ECO-Effect program, which celebrates what we all can do to make the world a more ECOnomically and ECOlogically healthier place for everyone and everything. In the ECO-Effect, we help you teach your kids and grandkids- and your kids to teach you- to "ECHO" to the community, school, businesses and government... and to be good Citizens-of-the-World.

Your ECOnomic decisions are world decisions and your ECOlogical decisions are world decisions. With the ECO-Effect, we hope to raise consciousness, be inclusive and have you take steps together with your family.

Review it Wednesday -- It's all about the Sax

2012-01-11T12:15:00.000-05:00

I hate taking plastic bags when I go to a store. What about you? For me, I feel like the biggest hypocrite on the planet when I walk out of a store carrying a plastic bag. Horror of horrors, the thought of running into someone I know makes it so much worse!

But sometimes you run into a store unexpectantly and you're not toting around your reusable shopping bags. After all, a lot of them are big and bulky and you often just leave them in the car, right?

Well, I have a solution for you! The handy, dandy Envirosax®.

My cousin, Kelly, bought me an Envirosax® a couple of years ago, and I've been hooked since. After all, what's not to love about these lightweight nylon bags that roll up and snap and can be tossed into nearly any size purse? With the Envirosax®, there's never an excuse to be without a reusable bag, even when you make an impulse purchase! With Envirosax®, you're always prepared!

Animal Planet Bag 4

I have 3 Envirosax® bags. The one I received from Kelly, one I purchased at Heavenly Soaps and Scents in Lititz, PA, and one I received from my daughter, Bethany. It's from the Animal Planet line and is the prettiest one I have.

The bags are a roomy 19.5" x 16.5" size when opened, and a dainty 4" x 1.5" when rolled up. They weigh next to nothing, yet hold 44 lbs.!!

Bloom Bag 4

The bags come in such a wide variety of patterns and colors (including solids) and there are even designs to appeal to kids of all ages!

Robot

Grover

Tubby

In addition to the convenience of Envirosax® bags, what I really love is that they are machine washable! That makes them the perfect bag for grocery shopping. No more worrying about bacteria growing inside your reusable bags! Simply unload your meats and produce and toss the bags in the wash! How great is that?!

Envirosax® even has these wonderful little pouches you can buy to tote your totes in, and they only cost $1.95. You can put 3 bags in the children's pouches and 5 in the regular ones. And of course, they come in all sorts of marvelous designs and colors as well. While the individual Envirosax® bags sell for $8.95 and $9.95, you can buy sets of 5 with the pouch for $39.95!

I think the Envirosax® bags are so awesome, I'm giving one away! This giveaway is limited to those of you on Facebook, however. And I won't do the drawing (via Random.org) until after midnight (EST) on January 16th, provided my page reaches 700 'likes' by then. If we're not at 700 on Monday night, I'll wait until we get there. Fair enough?

Here's what you need to do to rush this process along. Refer your friends! Everyone who posts a comment on my FB wall stating why they want to win an Envirosax® will get 1 entry. Everyone who posts the contest on their own FB page (and let's me know about it) gets 3 more. Everyone who is mentioned in a friend's post ( ______ sent me), gets 6 more! That's 10 right there. Easy, huh? If the winner has at least 10 entries, they will also receive an exclusive Green Grandma reusable bag!

Again, the deadline is midnight January 16, 2012, or when we reach 700 'likes' after that.

Let's grow the community and save some plastic bags along the way!

Keeping it green with Envirosax®,

Hana

By the way, Envirosax® is having a sale that ends TODAY, January 11, 2012. If you spend $50, you get 50% off your entire order! See their website for details.

Lactose Intolerant or Allergic to Dairy: How to Know the Difference and Protect Yourself from Symptoms

2012-01-10T11:10:00.001-05:00

Today, I'm happy to feature a guest post by Angelita Williams, who writes on the topics of online courses. She welcomes your comments by email.

This post is aimed at all the non-vegan readers in the community, and it deals with an issue that seems to be garnering a lot of attention these days. I must admit, however, I didn't know the difference between dairy allergies and lactose intolerance, so I found the article to be quite enlightening.

Thank you for sharing your expertise, Angelita!

Photo by Marina Shemesh

Who doesn’t love some kind of dairy? The central ingredient in ice cream, chocolate, lattes, and other delicious treats, is dairy, not to mention cheese and milk products. Unfortunately, for many, digesting dairy products isn't the easiest thing in the world. But if you’re starting to wonder if recurring stomach issues may have one too many slices of cheesecake to blame, you could be lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.

Lactose intolerance is an extremely common phenomenon, marked by the inability to break down lactose, a sugar found in milk. Its prevalence varies throughout different regions of the world. In North America and Europe, lactose intolerance frequency ranges from 0-20%, while in southern South America, East Asia, and southern Africa, the prevalence can be as high as 80-100%.

If you are lactose intolerant, it does not mean you can't consume dairy products at all, it just won't be the most pleasant experience. Common symptoms of lactose intolerance include gas, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. The severity of symptoms varies, and many people with lactose intolerance eat a moderate amount of dairy.

If you find out that you are lactose intolerant, there are many ways you can still eat dairy without bringing on symptoms. The most common thing to do is to consume dairy products in small amounts and in combination with other food. Yogurt and kefir contain bacteria that help break down lactose, so those are actually great choices for people with lactose intolerance. You can also check out pro-biotic formulas that will provide some extra enzymes to help your digestive system. No matter what amount of dairy you are able to consume, it is possible to mitigate the symptoms of lactose intolerance and still include dairy in your diet.

Dairy allergies, on the other hand, are a completely different phenomenon. Dairy allergies are caused by the body's mistaking some component of a specific food as a toxin, causing negative reactions. Most dairy allergies come from an allergic reaction to the protein found in milk. People often mistake a dairy allergy for lactose intolerance because many of the symptoms are the same, but dairy allergies can be more severe and also include trouble breathing, hives, pneumonia, and, in extreme cases, anaphylactic shock.

If you suspect that you may be lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, it is best to see a doctor and get tested to know for sure. Having an intense allergic reaction -- which can sometimes cause severe illness or death -- is not worth the risk.

Unfortunately, those with dairy allergies must avoid dairy products at all costs. Be sure to read labels vigilantly, since milk is a hidden ingredient in tons of processed foods. Inquire at restaurants about food ingredients, and, if your allergy is severe, make sure to carry an epinephrine injection with you, just in case. However, having a dairy allergy does not mean you will have to avoid all milk and cheese; you will just need to seek out non-dairy alternatives. There are non-dairy substitutes available in most grocery stores, which provide you all the nutrition of dairy without the negative effects of lactose.

What is her? An innocent question with a revealing answer

2012-01-09T13:51:00.000-05:00

My mom and my grandbaby. Life is good.

Last night, we returned from a 3-day weekend in Manheim, PA, where we were visiting my mom. Her 85th birthday was on Saturday, so my husband and I took our granddaughter, Laura, and headed east on the turnpike. Laura is a real joy to travel with, which can't always be said about toddlers. We sang songs, played rhyming games, laughed and told stories. Lots and lots of stories. As much fun as it was, at my age, it's still a bit tiring to tote a toddler around for 3 days. I don't know how you older moms do it! I am so glad I had my kids before I was 30.

My mom usually goes to bed fairly early, but on Friday night, after we put Laura to bed at 8:30, Bill, Mom and I played Pinochle until after midnight. Mom and I, in an unusual night of card playing, lost every hand!

Laura's face beside the bed at 7:30 a.m. was not what I had planned on when I fell off to sleep around 2 a.m.! That was the start of a very busy day for me, as I hosted a birthday dinner for my mom that evening. The guests all seemed to enjoy the food, my traditional dinner questions and the company. By the time they left, and Mom went to bed, I was faced with a huge mess to clean up (Bill helped a little before falling asleep on the couch). The bed felt especially nice when I crawled in around 1 a.m.

Mom was surprised to find a cleaned up house when she made her way downstairs on Sunday morning, which made me happy. Sometimes, it's so worth the extra effort to do things right, don't you think?

My mom goes to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Manheim, the church I was raised in. It's more traditional and formal than the church I currently attend, and I wasn't sure how Laura would handle the formality of it all. I must say, I was quite impressed with her behavior. She was quiet, respectful and promptly folded her hands and recited the Lord's Prayer right along with the congregation. Moments like that make a grandma proud. What didn't make me proud, but did slightly amuse me, was a particular comment Laura made before the service began.

There is a woman in the church that is, shall we say, a colorful character. So colorful, in fact, that she appeared on the show America's Got Talent last season. She even made it through the first round, although it is uncertain why. Mary Ellen is in her 70s, I believe, and wears a lot of makeup. Her hair is teased high and dyed bright red. Like I said, she's colorful. Her talent on the show was playing the keyboard and singing. Perhaps you remember her.

Well, she walked past our pew yesterday morning and Laura got a good look at her. With wide eyes, she turned to me and said, "What is her?"

I couldn't help laughing at the innocence of a child and her unrestrained honesty. We raise them to not point, to not stare, and certainly, not to make fun of anyone. But she was doing none of those things. She was curious.

Aren't we all? Haven't you ever seen someone and wondered, albeit silently, What is she? or What is he? or even What is that? Just because we are culturally refined, it does not mean we don't wonder sometimes. Which has me wondering ...

Has anyone ever looked at me and asked themselves, What is her? like Laura asked about Mary Ellen? After all, while I may not cover my face in "face paint," I sometimes cover my heart in it. Or my mind. Or my prejudices. Or my judgmental spirit. Sometimes a smile is a form of "face paint," when the sincerity of it is lost behind a slew of judgments or prejudices.

In many ways, Mary Ellen is more real than I am. What is her? In toddlerspeak, her is a woman who believes in her talent, is confident in her unique look and worships the same God I do. Her is worthy of respect.

Aren't we all?

And that, my friends, is the lesson I learned on the Sabbath this week. An unlikely lesson I didn't even recognized until I started writing this post. Now it's time to go wash off some of this "face paint" before the throne of God. After all, He's the only one who can wash me clean.

Sharing my Sabbath and more,

Hana

What A Wonderful World -- Happy 85th birthday to my mom!

2012-01-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

Vinegar Fridays

2012-01-06T02:22:00.000-05:00

On Sale Now!

I'm heading out of town for the weekend, but wanted to leave you with a vinegar tidbit. This comes directly out of the book, so if you have the book and have already read it, sorry! And if you haven't bought the book yet, What are you waiting for?!?

Let's talk ACV -- the organic raw unfiltered kind. I cannot stress enough how important it is for you to stick to this kind of apple cider vinegar when you are taking it internally.

from Chapter 9 "The F-word"

ACV, taken daily, can work to detoxify your body. As a blood purifier, acetic acid aggressively chases the bad toxins right out of your system. Bye. Bye.

So, let's assume you want to detoxify. Here's what I suggest: Mix a tablespoon of ACV in an 8-ounce glass of water. Add honey to taste, if you like. Drink at least one of these concoctions daily, preferably before a meal.

I don't like to do it that way, so here is an alternate suggestion: Take a tablespoon of ACV straight and chase it down with 8 or more ounces of water.

Either way, make sure you thoroughly rinse out your mouth when you're done, so the acetic acid doesn't do a number on your tooth enamel.

Once you start this daily routine, expect to feel, and look, let bloated. The ACV will act as a diuretic, but don't worry. It's rich in potassium, so your body will not be depleted of this essential mineral. You'll end up in the bathroom more often, and that's a good thing. It means the detoxification is working.

Bonus: this should rev up your metabolism, attack your belly fat, curb your appetite and give you more energy.

Don't believe me, well then check out what Jodee has to say about it in her review of the book. This is a pretty darn convincing review. If I hadn't written the book, I'd definitely be buying it after reading this!

That's it for this Vinegar Friday. It's after 2 a.m. and I'm leaving in 8 hours. I think I probably should get to bed.

Have a fantastic vinegar Friday,

Hana

2012-01-05T15:49:00.000-05:00

Another great review of Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays!

"If your new year's resolution is to clean up your act whether it to be more eco friendly, healthier, happier, more energetic or to lose weight, then Vinegar Fridays should definitely be on your read list. The green grandma takes you through every room in the house even giving your beauty supply an overhaul in an often funny, easy to read style. Although I thought of Vinegar Fridays as more of a reference book I promise those 'dedicated' will find it hard to put down."

Read more

There's an app for that

2012-01-05T00:01:00.002-05:00

In light of Tuesday's post, I thought I'd write about a couple worthwhile apps for those of you with electronic devices that you download apps to. I mean, really, I'm not completely in the dark ages. I know most of you probably have iPads, iPhones, Androids, Kindle Fires, or whatever. So here are a couple apps that I recommend:

The iRecycle app (from Earth911.com is a must-have for 2012 (at least according to the website!). iRecycle can tell you how, where and when to recycle just about anything. Using your current location, ZIP code, address or city, get access to vital details for collection points, such as website, phone number, directions, hours of operation and other materials collected. It's also great for reading the latest news on living a green, healthy life. The best part is that it is completely free!
As a children's book writer and voice-over talent, I am thrilled to be working with Marvel on their iStorybook line of electronic books for children. While I do not believe in substituting hard copy books for these electronic versions when it comes to kids, these are a nice supplement to the reading, I hope, you're already doing with your kiddos. I've been providing the voice of Maya for these children's books from the beginning (over 50 narrations so far), and recently have joined the group of writers penning the books under the name, Maya Ray. The books are available on Android, Kindle Fire, and Google TV, along with other devices, and many of them are absolutely free. Currently, I'm working on narrations for George Washington and Jack and the Beanstalk. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this line from iStorybooks.
This free app is for iPhone users and helps you make healthier food choices. Fooducate works when you scan barcodes of various food products. A full nutritional report will be displayed along with warning of any additives in the food that could be harmful (to you or the environment). If there is anything of concern, Fooducate offers suggestions for alternative products. How cool is that? Makes me almost wish I had an iPhone!

There you go. Old-fashioned GG is offering suggestions for some apps to download. While I don't have the devices to reap the benefits of these apps, I hope those of you who do will take advantage of them.

Keeping it green (and entertaining), electronically,

Hana

Review it Wednesday -- Let's start off the new year with a little humor!

2012-01-04T13:57:00.000-05:00

Have you visited the website Heard on the Playground yet? It's a great place to go if you're looking for a bit of daily clean humor. The collection of cute, funny, embarrassing, and sometimes downright inappropriate things kids say will lend a smile, and perhaps even a chuckle, to your day.

For those of us, like me, who like something solid to hold in their hands (we're talking books here, folks), there is good news. Heard on the Playground is now available in hard copy, in the form of an entertaining book by Andrea Sherr.

From the "About the Author" page:

I have a very talented family. My ten-year-old can make his butt "talk." My seven-year-old believes glue guns are a right and not a privilege. And my three-year-old is training to be a dictator by refusing to acknowlege the word "No." Being blessed with so many characters in one family means that each day is more entertaining than the next. Hoping I wasn't the only parent to give birth to The Little Rascals instead of The Brady Bunch, I started a website to collect funny kid stories, HeardonthePlayground.com. I was immediatedly overwhelmed by the response as shocking, embarrassing and hysterical stories about kids poured in from across the nation. I never thought topics such as peeing, now picking, sex, and even death could be so funny. I'm not just a Midwester Mom of three with two graduate degrees I never use with one husband who was convinced his children are destined to be circus performers. Now I am a woman with peace of mind who can look her husband in the eyes with complete honesty and say "Hey, lots of kids are like that..."

That about says it all. In addition to the quotes from kids, there are also links in the back of the book to lots and lots of blogs many of you would find invaluable. Are you the mother of twins? Check out 3in2.blogspot.com or Lilbumpkin.blogspot.com. Love baby product reviews? Mamaluvsbaby.com is a great resource. Have healthier living aspirations for the new year? Check out yourworldnatural.blogspot.com. Crafty? thetrendytreehouse.blogspot.com. From Asperger and Autism to Homeschooling to Travel, the list goes on and on. And it's only found in this wonderful book Heard on the Playground.

The book also includes kid art ... illustrations by Valarie, Zoe, and Rosie add charm to an already charming book!

All the entries in the book were gleaned from the countless submissions to the website. Here are some of my favorite:

My son came screaming out of the bathroom to tell me he'd dropped his toothbrush in the toilet. My son watched as I fished out the toothbrush and threw it in the garbage. He stood there thinking for a moment, then ran to my bathroom and came out with my toothbrush. He gave it to me and said with a charming smile, "We better throw this one out too 'cause it fell in the toilet a few days ago." -- Anonymous, 5 -- Wisconsin

My niece, Jessica, was so excited about her new baby brother. She called her grandma (who had not yet seen the baby) to tell her all about him. Her grandma asked what the new baby looked like. She replied, "Oh Grandma, he's wrinkled and bald just like Grandpa." -- Jessica, 8 -- California

Since it was around Christmas time, and I teach Sunday school, I decided to ask the class "Where is Jesus today?" Steven raised his hand and said, "He's in heaven." Sarah called out "He's in my heart." And then out of nowhere Michael blurted, "I know ... he's in our bathroom." The whold class got very quiet, and I was at a loss for words until I asked, "Why did you say that?" Michael replied, "Because I hear my Father get up in the morning, bang on the bathroom door and yell, 'Good lord, are you still in there?'" -- Michael, 4 -- Pennsylvania

My son Aaron was two and a half. He said, "Dad, you wanna play with my cars?" I said, "Sure." He said, "O.K., I'll be the 'Cordavette' and you be the idiot who is driving too slow." -- Aaron, 2 -- Colorado

And my favorite, of course, from the chapter on Potty Training:

I had been struggling with potty training my daughter for a while. One day, I was standing over her waiting for her to pee in the big potty, and suddenly that blessed sound filled the small bathroom. She looked up at me with a big smile, and said, "It's music to your ears, isn't it?" And she was right. -- Bethany, 2 -- Pennsylvania

Yep, that's my Bethany, now the mother of Lincoln and about to face her own potty training challenges!

If your little ones have blessed your life with funny moments (whose haven't?), and you would like to be considered for the next edition of the book, Heard on the Playground, submit your stories to heardontheplayground.com. Andrea would love to read the gems that have emerged from the mouths of your babes!

Spend some time on the website, and make sure you pick up a copy of the book. It is available on Amazon.com and in various stores across the U.S. Visit the website for a list of locations.

Heard on the Playground. A fun read that is at times, simply hysterical. Need an LOL moment? Heard on the Playground's got one for you!

Reviewing it for you,

Hana

Questions about kids and finances? This show could help.

2012-01-04T10:45:00.000-05:00

Are you confused about how to raise fiscally-sound kids in today's economy? Do you have questions about what to give, and not to give, your kids when it comes to allowance, spending money, etc.?

Tune in to The Lange Money Hour tonight when Jim Lange and I will be speaking with Neale Godfrey, the Founder of The Children's Financial Network, and author of six books on finances for women, parents and grandparents, including the New York Times #1 best-setller, Money Doesn't Grow on Trees: A Parent's Guide to Raising Financially Responsible Children.

The show runs from 7-8 p.m. EST on KQV radio (1410 am) or streaming live at http://www.kqv.com/.

The need to unplug

2012-01-03T02:58:00.000-05:00

I'm not a gadget person. I have a basic cell phone that I use as an alarm clock and to make and receive phone calls and send an occasional text message. It is Internet ready, but I don't subscribe to the service. Why? 1) It's a waste of money and 2) There is nothing so important online that I need to be able to access it 24/7. When I need to go online, I open up my laptop. If my laptop's not handy ... oh well.

I don't like seeing people at restaurants texting away or surfing the web while their sitting across the booth from other people. If they're alone, fine. But I find it rude to neglect the human being sitting there in lieu of some kind of electronic communication. Then again, I was never the mom that let her kids sit in restaurants playing with their Gameboys, either. When the family was out to eat together, we talked to each other. Kids included. And don't even get me started on kids playing any kind of video games or texting while at church! Seriously?!

And I don't get the whole DVD setups in vehicles, either. Call me old-fashioned, but I always enjoyed long car rides with my kids. It was a good time to talk, play games, sing silly songs, etc. If your kids can't handle the ride home from school or to the grocery store without some kind of electronic entertainment, I feel sorry for them. Really, I do.

Okay, now that I've stepped on a bunch of toes and come across as a bit self-righteous, I hope you'll forgive me and consider what I'm saying anyway. Our kids don't need more gadgets ... they need more conversations. Face-to-face. And, just because "every other kid has a cell phone" doesn't mean you have to give in and get your youngsters one. Remember, you're supposed to be a parent, and parents don't always make popular decisions ... nor should they.

Do our kids need to keep up with the electronic world they've been born into? Perhaps. But don't lose any sleep over worrying about them falling behind if they don't have their own Kindle Fire or iPad by the time they're 8. They'll survive ... and catch up with their peers when you, as a parent, decide they're responsible enough or otherwise ready to have such things.

I really feel for parents of young kids today. Your choices are so much more complicated then they were when I was raising kids. But that doesn't change the bottom line. You're mom (or dad) and you get to set the rules. It will be their turn when they have kids of their own.

So, grab some kids books or magazines and sit down and read to your little ones. Or pull out Candyland or Monopoly (the board games, not the electronic ones!) and have an all day tournament. Head outside and throw an old-fashioned football around. Leave your cell phone at home, go out and take a walk. Go to the park and ride the swings. Build a snowman. Let your kids (and your spouse) know that nothing is more important to you than family. The message gets a bit muddied when you're reaching for your phone during family time. Turn it off. The rest of the world can, and should, wait. You're tied up in a meeting ... the really important kind.

Old-fashioned and loving it,

Hana

Welcome to a brand new year!

2012-01-02T11:21:00.057-05:00

There's something comforting about the statement, "Welcome to a brand new year," isn't there? A fresh slate. A new beginning. For many, who experienced hardship, sickness and/or grief last year, they're more than ready to bid adieu to 2011 and head into 2012, even if it is filled with uncertainty.

It can't be worse than last year, you may be thinking. And, depending on your circumstances, you may be right. For others, you might be heading toward your worst nightmare. That's a comforting thought, now, isn't it? Sorry.

The fact is, none of us knows what is ahead. If our lives are like books, this next chapter is blank at this point. And, for much of it, it's up to us to fill the pages. Undoubtedly, there will be sorrow of some kind. And there will be joy. Surprises? Most likely. New friendships? I hope. Romance? Sometimes that's up to you.

As a writer, I can get lost in the lives of my characters. Sometimes, they take me on journeys of their own and they surprise me with their circumstances.

Life's like that, occasionally. We might think we have things mapped out, but then circumstances knock us off course. Sometimes, it's our own doing, and other times, it's not.

Looking back, what circumstances threw you off course in 2011? Is there anything you could have done to prevent that from happening? Are there lessons to learn to keep it from happening again?

My goal last year was to create a habit of honoring the Sabbath and taking a day off each week to rest, recreate and enjoy my friends and family. I'm happy to report that it was a goal I met with success. My husband and I reap the benefits of that more than I could have anticipated. Now that it is a habit, it no longer has to be a goal. For me, relaxing was my goal. This year, I have work-related goals to meet. Work habits to form. Financial goals. Money habits to nurture.

Will I meet those goals? I can only hope and pray. Oh, and work on them.

Will circumstances throw me off course? Probably. That's when it's good to turn my efforts into habits, so I can easily get back on the right road when circumstances permit.

Will I forsake my Sabbath experience to reach these new goals? Not a chance! The Lord has blessed me with six days a week to work toward those goals. And He's rewarded me with a seventh day to take a break. Amazingly enough, it's because of that break that I'm feeling confident the other goals will be met.

So, here's my challenge to you: Try your own Sabbath Experiment for the first six weeks of this year. Take one day off per week. Moms with young kids -- you're probably saying, "Yeah, right. What planet do you live on?" I understand. Of course, you can't shrug off your regular parenting duties. However, if you plan carefully enough during the week, you can get away with doing less on Saturday or Sunday. No laundry. Minimum cooking/cleaning up. No major housework. Spend the time playing with your kids more. Aim to get them to bed a little earlier so you have some quality time with your spouse or by yourself. Do something each week that nourishes your soul. It is doable.

For those of you, like me, who have their own businesses -- forsake the computer, or at least emails -- for one day each week. Clients can wait. And, if they can't respect your need for a day of rest, they're not worth having. Your business will not collapse if you take a day off. For 10 years, that's what I thought would happen, so I had to be online everyday. Of all the things I regret in my life, that's one of the biggies. My business came before my family, and for that I will always be sorry. I urge you not to make the same mistake.

So, here it is -- a brand new year. Embrace it for the possibilities it holds for you. And consider my challenge. Trust me. You'll be a different person a year from now.

Sharing my Sabbath experience as we face a new year,

Hana

Read past Sabbath Experiment posts:

First post
First post of 2011
Battling with cancer -- let's play dominoes
The best laid plans of mice and men

The other side of celebration

2011-12-31T00:01:00.000-05:00

The new year slips in quietly

for the one who is alone.

No clinking of glasses

no expectant shouts

no midnight kisses.

Just another year

transitioning into the past.

No hoopla

no confetti

no fireworks.

Not even a sparkler.

But wait …

what is that I see sparkling over there?

Is it …

Oh ... no, it’s not a sparkle,

it’s a tear.

The new year slips in quietly,

but not unnoticed,

for the one who is alone.

Hana Haatainen Caye

Remember to reach out to the lonely this New Year's Eve. They're all around us.

Vinegar Fridays

2011-12-30T00:35:00.000-05:00

TGIVF!

I am so excited about the tip I'm about to share with you regarding distilled white vinegar. Those of you on my FB page or on the Green Grandma's Vinegar Friday's FB page may have already read it. But it's just too good not to share with the whole community.

The tip comes from Jessica Barber, who writes:

One seasonal vinegar tip I have is that at least once a year (around this time) I save all my peels from oranges or other citrus fruits and cover with white vinegar. I let it set for a few months (or at least 6 weeks) and then I can use my great citrus vinegar for my homemade cleaner recipes and have lovely orange scented floors and counters.

Isn't that awesome?! I can't wait until my concoction has plenty of time to steep!

I think that tip is so beyond wonderful, that it's the only one I'm going to share today.

Have a fabulous Vinegar Friday and a safe, healthy and happy holiday weekend.

Keeping it green with vinegar,

Hana

By the way, I just gave away a copy of Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays last week and am planning another giveaway when the FB page reaches 100 'likes.' If you haven't 'liked' the page yet, please do!

Stupidity and an empty bottle of liquid silver

2011-12-29T12:43:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting at my desk for the first time since before Christmas, and I'm hoping my body can adjust to this new, non-prone position long enough for me to get some work done.

So, how were your holidays? Were they light with merriment or weighed down with stress? Mine were a bit of both. I can't tell you how disappointed I was to wake up on Monday with a sore throat and headache. We celebrated Christmas with our daughters and their families on Monday. By the time the crowd descended on us, with their mountains of presents, I was feeling worse. As we were opening presents, a cloud of "you're getting sick" hovered overhead, filling me with dread. I made dinner, set the table and finally sat down to eat. By that time, my throat hurt so much, I couldn't swallow. I kept pushing myself, even through serving dessert, but then I'd had enough. Excusing myself and thanking everyone for their gifts, I headed upstairs, where I basically remained until now. Just a little while ago, I ventured downstairs to grab something to eat, although I have no appetite, and then I came back up to my office, where I'm hoping to remain for most of the afternoon.

Has illness ever prevented you from having a good time with your family and/or friends? Has it ever made you miss a deadline? When you work for your own business, like I do, there are no paid sick days. If I don't work, I don't make any money. Not a good way to end the year, let me tell you.

In my book, Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays, I have an entire chapter dedicated to vinegar and health. However, this time around, the vinegar was of no help. That's not to say it hasn't helped in the past, but this bout of illness knocked me down fast and hard. I could kick myself, however. Why? Because my husband and I discovered a 'miracle' liquid that, through the years, helped up escape this kind of stuff.

What is it? It's called Liquid Lightning Silver Plus and is manufactured by a company called Innerlight. We ran out of it awhile back and, because it's rather expensive, didn't order any more. Big mistake. Yesterday, I went online and ordered 4 bottles.

LL Silver Plus is de-mineralized water with silver, gold, copper and titanium and comes in a 1 oz. bottle. You simply put a couple drops under your tongue every day and it really works at killing any germs you may breathe in or ingest. In the years when we're taking it faithfully, we don't even get so much as a sniffle. And the most amazing thing is that I don't have any problems with my asthma.

Before we were introduced to LL Silver Plus, I generally ended up hospitalized every February for pneumonia. I had to use a couple different inhalers, a nebulizer and oral meds. When taking the LL Silver Plus, I don't need anything.

So, again, why, oh why, did we allow ourselves to run out of it? Stupid. That's all. Just plain stupid.

Are you like that with anything? You know it helps, but you just stop doing it, or taking it, for one reason or another? What is that all about? We grow complacent in our wellness, don't we? That's what happened to me, but let me tell you, this was a wake up call!

In a few days, the package will arrive and Bill and I will start loading up on the LL Silver Plus. Is it safe? You bet. As long as you take it according to the directions. Silver is an amazing mineral -- before there were antibiotics, there was silver. That's what they used to treat illness many years ago. But then pharmaceuticals were born and nothing's been the same since. Google it yourself. You'll be surprised by the benefits of silver ... even the health benefits of eating from silver spoons and forks! As we 'advance,' it seems progress keeps shooting us in the foot in one way or another. That's why, you keep hearing me refer back to old-fashioned ways mixed with a good dose of 21st century common sense.

If you're interested in hearing more, just email me.

Hana

Review it Wednesday canceled this week

2011-12-28T11:07:00.000-05:00

What a weird title for this post. However, because I'm still really sick (actually worse than I was Monday or Tuesday), I don't think I could post a fair review of anything right now. Rather than write something that will be colored with a fever, headache, body aches, sore throat, and aching eyes, it's best for me to leave the review for the new year, when I'll be feeling better (I hope!!).

Feel free to check out all the other reviews I've posted on the blog. Just type in "Review it Wednesdays" in the search bar at the bottom, and you'll have a whole slew of them to pick from.

Happy reading!

Hana

Not the way I planned it

2011-12-27T11:18:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was our family Christmas celebration, with far too many presents, laughing (and sometimes crying) kiddos and lots of food. Oh, and a horrific sore throat, swollen glands and a fever that hit 102.4. That was how my day progressed. By the time we sat down to the dinner I made, I couldn't eat it. My throat was too swollen and sore to swallow the food. What a disappointment. And the honey/ACV didn't help ... at all. I ended up excusing myself and heading to bed.

I woke up today with that dry-mouth-tongue-stuck-to-the-roof-of-my-mouth crap, a sore throat, fever of 100.4 and an ocular migraine. I took a shower and went back to bed. Now, I'm feeling a bit better ... and I'm feeling optimistic. The fever broke, so maybe this was a 24 hour thing and I'll be feeling just dandy by this evening. That would be a perk, as there's still quite a mess to clean up from yesterday's festivities.

Don't you hate when things don't go as planned?

Sharing my day ... but not my germs,

Hana

50 'likes' means we have a winner!

2011-12-26T10:44:00.000-05:00

I'm happy to say we reached 50 'likes' on the Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays Facebook page ... which means I'm giving away a copy of the book!

Via Random.org, number 42 is the winner! Congratulations to Jessica Barber!!

Email your address to me and I'll get a signed book out to you!

Christmas on the Sabbath

2011-12-26T10:22:00.000-05:00

Christmas tree at Phipp's Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Yesterday was pretty much a typical Sabbath for me. It started with attending church with the family. After church, however, our daughters and their families headed off in different directions to celebrate Christmas with their in-laws, and Bill and I were on our own. It was a lovely, quiet day. Movies, music, games, and a wonderful dinner of bacon-wrapped filet mignon (thanks to a generous Omaha Steaks gift from my mother), snowpeas with brown butter and mushrooms. Oh, and presents. Bill and I opened our presents late in the afternoon yesterday while sitting on the opened sofabed in our family room, where we've been sleeping in front of the lit Christmas tree for the last 3 nights.

It was a relaxing Sabbath.

Today, the craziness begins! At 1:00, the kids and grandkids will descend on us, with arms full of presents. There will be food, drink, gift exchange and merriment throughout the afternoon and evening. And since we're doing this the day after Christmas, no one will have to leave early or come late as they don't have to visit with the other families today. That's the perk. We've done it this way for the past 3 years and it has worked well for us. But that's because Christmas has fallen on the weekends. Next year it's on a Tuesday, and many will have to work on Wednesday, so I don't know what will happen. I guess we'll deal with that next year. For now, I plan to enjoy my day with my family ... my wonderful, wonderful family.

Sharing my Sabbath experience and my holiday with you,

Hana

2011-12-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Another Vinegar Friday!

2011-12-23T11:25:00.000-05:00

TGIVF!!

Did you check out the brand new Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays Facebook page yet? I'm giving away a copy of the book when we reach 50 fans. As of this morning, there were 41 already, so make sure you 'like' the page soon so you can have a chance to win!

I love the conversations on the new page, where we're talking vinegar! I especially love when others share their vinegar tips. Here are some tips from the wall that are not in my book:

Wanda writes: I use vinegar (or I should say, my nine year-old uses vinegar) to clean his retainer. Every night, as he's brushing his teeth, he puts his retainer in a lidded container, covers it with vinegar, and shakes it around for three minutes. Then he scrubs it with his clean and rinsed toothbrush.

When referring to cleaning the microwave with vinegar, Wanda also commented that the vinegar steam is good for cleaning out the ventilation system as well. Good point! I hadn't thought of that before.

Jane writes: A bowl of vinegar & water left sitting out overnight can get rid of awful smells! Even worked in a very old, stinky biology lab classroom I worked in years ago.... :)

Louise writes: I keep a small bottle in my laundry room and add some when I wash an item for the first time to "set" the colour.

Louise also posted: I think I have a new favorite Facebook page! Love it!

Isn't it time for you to 'like' (or in Louise's case, 'love') the page as well?! It's only a few days old and I'm loving it already, thanks to the tips that are coming in! Does anyone sense a 2nd volume of VF in the works?!

Keeping it green with vinegar,

Hana

11 rules your kids did not and will not learn in school

2011-12-22T11:46:00.001-05:00

There is an email that has been circulating for years about the 11 rules of life. It has been falsely attributed to Bill Gates. From what I've read, this list was written by Charles J. Sykes, but it's been passed around and published so often, it's hard to pin down the particulars. I do find it worth sharing. You might even want to print it, wrap it and put it under the tree on Sunday for every teen in your life. These are some pretty important lessons, not just for teens, however. Some of these are reminders to us as well.

Rule 1: Life is not fair -- get used to it!

Rule 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something before you feel good about yourself.

Rule 3: You will not make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for burger flipping -- they called it opportunity.

Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you are. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as many times as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to anything in real life.

Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on your own time.

Rule 10: Television is not real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

***

Review It Wednesday

2011-12-21T10:30:00.002-05:00

Cover design by Heather Desuta

So, here it is the first day of Hanukkah and the Wednesday before Christmas. I'm thinking that no one will really care about anything I review right now, much less run out (or go online) to buy it. Therefore, I'm not going to review a product. I'm going to review a brand new Facebook page. How fun is that?!

This is not something you have to buy, you simply have to 'like' it. Sound good?

It's the Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays page, and let me tell you ... it's an awesome page. Or, at least, it will be. Why? Because of you. This is a page where we can all share our vinegar tips ... and if yours is a new one for me, it just might make it's way into Volume Two of Vinegar Fridays!

I'll post tips from the book, too. Along with new tips I find.

Plus, I'll let you know about specials on the book ... and reviews and giveaways.

Lots of fun stuff. Just like the book, it is a dash of vinegar with a splash of personality!

Hope to visit with you there!

Keeping it green with vinegar,

Hana

Another anniversary

2011-12-20T10:50:00.000-05:00

Bill, Laura and me

It was on this day in 1989 that I went on my first date with my husband. It was an unusual date, which set the precedence for an unusual journey together.

Since I had to stop by church to check in on a rehearsal for a cantata that I was directing a small skit for, we didn't have time for dinner in the beginning of our date. So we stopped at Ground Round and had dessert and coffee. Later, we returned and had dinner and wine. How awesome is that? Dessert first.

Today, as we celebrate 22 years of being together, I'm full of gratitude

to Bill, for bravely taking that step and asking me out and then sticking with me through all the crap (and there was a lot of it)
to my girls, Bethany and Jessica, who embraced him as their new daddy and have blessed him with their love and devotion more than they'll ever know. Plus, they gave him his only grandchildren, who provide such joy to him
to my step-daughter, Mindy, who adapted whenever she needed to, and learned to love me as a parent (for that, I'm quite blessed)
to my friend, Kathy, who insisted Bill and I meet and encouraged us along the way (even though her husband, Mike, bet her 50 bucks that Bill would never marry me!)
to my friend, Dawn, who listened to me gripe about relationship/marriage issues, yet never held anything against Bill (I mean, c'mon, there were problems in those early years)
to our church for their support
to God. Without Him, we would not have weathered the difficult times and would not be here celebrating this anniversary today

With that said, I'll close. But not without wishing you the most excellent day with the ones you love.

Sharing my heart,

Hana

And the winner is...

2011-12-20T00:22:00.000-05:00

We have a lucky winner of the charming children's book, Pinky Doodle Bug, written by Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino and illustrated by Sandra Waugh.

Congratulations to Lisa Bartelt!

Email your mailing address and Elizabeth will get a book out to you.

It's all about the presents!

2011-12-19T11:03:00.000-05:00

My grandbaby

The sermon at our church yesterday was a bit unusual (which is actually not so unusual when Bob Hartman is preaching). Instead of focusing on the catchphrase "Jesus is the reason for the season," Bob talked about the giving of gifts. And he changed my point of view.

You see, I love giving gifts, but money's been a bit tight lately, so we're seriously cutting back this year. That's not a bad thing, mind you, because we all have way too much stuff. The problem here, though, is that I've been insisting that my oh-so-generous husband not buy me anything for Christmas. Insisting. There are a few different reasons for this -- the first one is obvious: money. But it goes beyond that. It's also about the time and stress of shopping and wrapping. I wanted to relieve him of that burden.

"Let's focus on the real meaning of Christmas instead of getting caught up in the craziness." (I refused to slip in the catchphrase I mentioned above, as I generally don't take too well to catchphrases ... I think they water down true meaning).

Anyway, as Bob pointed out in his sermon yesterday, I was wrong.

We were created to give. It is a trait inherent in most of us that brings us great joy. And he, and I, am not talking about exchanging lists, buying everything on the lists, wrapping it and handing it to the recipients. Where's the fun in that?

Have you ever surprised someone with a gift they simply love? Or with something they really wanted, but they didn't know you'd paid enough attention to know that? Don't you love the way their faces light up as they tear open the wrapping? What do you feel? Immense joy, right?

In my "I want to save you money, time and stress" approach, I was actually depriving my husband of something that gives him great pleasure. He loves to buy me gifts for Christmas. So guess what? Thanks to Bob's sermon yesterday, I'm okay with Bill buying me presents. More than okay with it. If it stresses him out a little, that's alright. The payoff will be worth it.

After all, Christmas is all about giving and receiving, isn't it? God gave us the gift of His Son ... and what an awesome gift it was. Can you imagine the great joy on God's face when we accepted the gift? When the gift brought us joy? Yeah, He was a happy Papa. As it says in one of my favorite books in the Bible,

"Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow."

That's from somewhere in the first chapter of James. I have the whole chapter memorized, so without getting up and looking in my Bible, I'm not quite sure which verse it is.

So, yeah, it's all about the presents. While I didn't explain that concept as well as Bob did yesterday, I hope you still grasp what I mean.

And, on a side note on this common sense environmental blog -- Don't you love how God even taught us about repurposing when He directed Mary and Joseph to a stable where they place their newborn baby in a manger? A repurposed feed trough. Now that's awesome!

Wishing you the merriest week before Christmas,

Hana

The ultimate gifts for Christmas

2011-12-17T01:28:00.000-05:00

"Christmas gift suggestions:

To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect."

-- Oren Arnold

Vinegar Fridays -- It's back!

2011-12-16T10:11:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to Vinegar Fridays where I'll be sharing vinegar tips (with occasional breaks for Friday's 3Rs)! Some of the tips and info will be from the book and others will be brand spankin' new!

Today, I thought I'd give you a couple seasonal tips (not in the book):

If your artificial Christmas tree looks a bit worn and dusty, revive it with a good spritzing of distilled white vinegar (DWV) and water (50/50) mix. Of course, you want to do this before you hang the lights (unless they're indoor/outdoor and are made to withstand moisture).

While our cats never bothered with our trees, other people seem to have problems keeping them away from the dangling ornaments and sparkling tinsel. Here's where you want to grab your apple cider vinegar (ACV) and give a generous spray around the base of the tree. Cats hate the smell of vinegar and will tend to stay away. Of course, as I wrote about in Chapter 14 of the book, I bathe my cats in ACV, so they might be immune to its repellant qualities. And keep in mind, this will only work for cats and not toddlers! You'll have to come up with a different solution for your rugrats.

Expecting an overnight frost? Keep it off your windshield by spraying it with a 50/50 mix of DWV and water. It should be frostfree when you head out in the morning. This is also a good solution for cars in the parking lot at work or at the mall. Keep a spray bottle in your car and spritz the windshield before you head into the office or shopper's paradise.

Okay, that's it for today. Just 3 tips to ease a little holiday/winter stress. If they don't help with that, a Christmas cookie just might do the job! Have a fabulous Friday!

Keeping it green with vinegar,

Hana

For more great vinegar tips, buy a copy of Green Grandma's Vinegar Fridays, now available on Lulu.com.

Available NOW!

The paper towel challenge

2011-12-15T10:23:00.000-05:00

I am not a fan of paper towels. Except when messes like this occur:

Yummy. What a way to start the day ... thanks to my cat Theo. At least it wasn't on the couch or braided rug.

So I opened the cupboard door and pulled out the rarely used paper towels, and was thankful I had them. Of course, they are the ones made of 100% recycled paper, but I still felt a slight tinge of guilt using so many -- this really was a mess!

There are people I know who use lots and lots of paper towels every day and never even give it a thought. Even before I decided to eliminate as many disposable products as possible from my home, I still didn't use an excessive amount. After all, they were expensive ... at the least the ones I bought -- you know, the fancy ones to match my Mary Engelbreit kitchen. Imagine how excited I was when I discovered the Engelbreit line of paper towels on the grocery store shelf one day! Pathetic.

How did I break my paper towel habit? Well, it started in the mind -- all I had to do was think of the sheer wastefulness and I was convinced pretty quickly that I had to find an alternative. And the alternative was easy! Rags. Old washclothes. Cut up stained handtowels. I stacked them under my sink for easy access and put a little lidded trashcan in the corner of the kitchen. When there's a mess, I wipe it up and throw the rag in the "hamper." Often, I rinse the rag and hang it over the top rack of the dishwasher. It's an out of the way, yet convenient, spot.

My challenge for you today, as a new year draws near, is to rethink your position on paper towels. Use less. Put them in a less convenient place, so family members don't just grab them for every little thing. Reserve them for messes like the one I woke up to.

It's an easy and earth-friendly thing to do. And with the rising cost of groceries, it's kind on your budget as well!

Keeping it green,

Hana

Pinky Doodle Bug -- a tale of channeling one's talents

2011-12-14T10:14:00.001-05:00

This week, I'm excited to be reviewing a new children's book by Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino with whimsical illustrations by Sandra Waugh. Pinky Doodle Bug explores the suppressed talents in so many of us ... talents that no one harnessed when we were young. Talents we may not have expressed 'correctly' as kids, so they were squashed under the heel of appropriateness.

You know what I'm talking about. The drummer who was reprimanded for tapping the margarine tub with his fork. The ballerina who was told to sit still when inside she was longing to twirl. And the budding artist whose drawings were simply in the wrong places. Like Pinky, who liked to doodle, until one day when she was told, "You can't do that, Pinky, that's called grafitti."

Have you been there? Do you remember what it felt like?

The dilemma is obvious from the start of this charming tale. Pinky loves to draw, but rather than someone coming alongside her and channeling her creativity and moving it forward, they simply tell her she is wrong for doing what comes naturally. For Pinky, doodling simply erupts from the passion inside her ... a passion to create art.

I had a passion when I was a child. I wanted to write. Fortunately, I had parents who encouraged that talent. Here I am, 5 decades later, doing what I love.

As parents, we need to nourish our children's passions and channel them in the right directions. Wait, this is starting to sound like a life lesson instead of a book review. But isn't that what a good book does? Entertains while presenting a moral or a lesson. Look at Aesop's Fables, for instance.

So what happens to Pinky Doodle Bug when she is told to no longer doodle? Well, you'll have to pick up a copy of the book to find out. And here are your options:

The book is available on Lulu.com in three formats:

Hard Cover for $24.95
Paperback for $14.95
eBook for $9.99

Or ... you can win a Hard Cover copy! And it is easy to enter! Simply 'like' the Pinky Doodle Bug Facebook page and on the GG Facebook page telling me what your talent/passion was when you were a child and whether or not your parents encouraged you, or discouraged you, to pursue your dream. Not on Facebook? That's okay. You can just post a comment here on the blog to enter.

Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino is all about encouraging people to pursue their dreams. Her Best Ever You network is designed to bring out the ... well, the best in you!! So Pinky Doodle Bug is a perfect tool for teaching your little ones to stick to their natural talents and create a life based on them. Isn't that the ultimate dream for all of us?

As a poet, I'm a stickler for good meter and proper, but not forced, rhyme. This is where I have to add a slight criticism of the book. There are times the meter is off and, in one instance, the sentence structure is miscued in order to create the rhyme ("my words you have found"). But hey, it's a kids' book, not an actual poem, so it is a minor detail that probably only bothers people like me who can never seem to put down their red editing pen.

The story itself is fun and the illustrations by Sandra Waugh are delightful. I am quite certain children will fall in love with Pinky Doodle Bug and little girls will want to be her. That's where you, as a parent or grandparent, have to remind her that it's fun to pretend to be someone else, but the best person she can be is exactly who she is!!

Looking forward to reading your responses!

Reviewing it for you,

Hana

Entries will be received through midnight EST Monday, Dec. 19, 2011 and a winner will be chosen via Random.org and posted here on the blog on Tuesday. Don't forget to check back to see if you won!

A plate of cookies in the mailbox

2011-12-13T10:17:00.000-05:00

Photo by Jeanette ONeil

I got home rather late last night after going out with friends after our writers' group meeting. As I was about to go down the walk to the house, I checked the mailbox and, lo and behold, my husband had not retrieved it earlier. I pulled out some Christmas cards, a bill, some junk mail and ... a plate of cookies.

How sweet, I thought. Someone left some goodies for us. But as I looked through the mail, I realized I had a dilemma. You see, not one, but two of our neighbors slipped Christmas cards into our mailbox yesterday. And one of them added the plate of cookies to their greeting. My dilemma? I don't know which one!

So what do I do? If I thank the wrong one, I create an awkward moment for them. If I don't thank the right one, I appear like an ungrateful, self-centered crappy kind of a neighbor. What would you do?

Of course, if you happen to be reading this and are the neighbor who did this, you could solve my dilemma right now, by letting me know. Or you could let me squirm.

Whoever did it, I must admit I was touched by the gesture. What a thoughtful thing to do!

And what a lovely reminder of the way things used to be before we all started hiding in our houses and stopped reaching out to our neighbors around us. This is the perfect time of year to change that.

A plate of cookies in the mailbox? Why not? I encourage you to do it for your neighbors ... just make sure you put a to/from sticker on it so there isn't any awkward confusion.

Sharing a holiday idea with you,

Hana

The Sabbath Experience ... and what a lovely Sabbath it was!

2011-12-12T10:38:00.049-05:00

It was a lovely Sabbath. Really. Despite the cold temps, the sun was shining radiantly. Our worship service was uplifting and thought provoking as Bob talked about seeming contradictions in the Christmas story. I wasn't aware of how low on the social totem pole shepherds really were! And God chose to announce the news of His Son's birth to shepherds! Awesome! He led Gentile magi from far away to come visit the King of the Jews. He demonstrated how Jesus was about to turn everything upside down. Remember how He purposefully healed on the Sabbath? What good Jew does that?

I am so inspired by the way Jesus broke through religion and brought about change. He really didn't have much good to say about religious leaders, did He? He much rather chose to spend His time with sinners, like me.

After the service, we once again had lunch as a family at Reflections in West View. As I was walking across the street, I glanced through the window and saw an old friend. It was so good to see him cuddling his beautiful one-month-old baby girl. He shared news that saddened me, but it was good to see him nonetheless.

Bill and I watched a movie in the afternoon and then headed back to church for the annual birthday party for Jesus. Several of us shared our talents. I read my story, The Red Glass Pine Cone, and Bill and my three-year-old grandbaby, the lovely little Lady Laura, sang Away in a Manger.

Is there anything more precious than listening to a small child singing a song about Jesus? Not to me. Especially when it's my grandchild!

Photo by Lisa Bruno

After singing Happy Birthday to Jesus, Laura was one of the children that got to spit on the cake ... I mean, blow out the candles. And then, after eating some of that cake, she and my grandson, the little Lord Lincoln, got to run and dance off some of that sugar-induced energy. What fun!

Bill and I drove around looking at Christmas lights on the way home. Then we stopped at Applebee's for a drink and half-price appetizers. While we were there, a couple came in and sat down at the bar across from our table. The man turned around and announced to us, "We're the only black people in America that didn't vote for Obama." That was the start of an interesting rest of the night! They ended up sliding in the booth beside us and spent the next couple of hours chatting with us. We steered the conversation off of politics as quickly as we could. It's not a subject either of us wanted to discuss with them, other than my asking them why they felt the way they did about the president. We expressed the things we didn't like about him, but added the things we approved of. I'm one who believes there is always good and bad about every president and choose to pray for him and not tear him down. No matter who he is and no matter how I voted, the bottom line is he is our president and the office alone deserves respect. I abhor the current trend of teaching children it's okay to disrespect the leader of our country. I just think that's wrong. Do I think the president is wrong in some of his policies? Of course. And I'll be happy to respectfully discuss that with you if you ever ask. Bill feels the same way, which leads to a more content marital relationship!

It was late by the time we got home, so we headed to bed after Bill put the recycling out for pick up this morning. We didn't have enough trash to make it worthwhile to put out the garbage can, which is always a good feeling!

All in all, Sunday was a good day. A good Sabbath rest in the midst of holiday busyness. Even though we were out most of the day, it was still a restful and refreshing day ... and I got to spend it with my favorite person of all -- my husband. Yeah, it was a good day.

Sharing my Sabbath experience,

Hana

Christmas shopping in the good old days

2011-12-10T00:01:00.002-05:00

Photo by Petr Kratochvil

Oh, for the good old days

when people would stop Christmas shopping

when they ran out of money.

~Author Unknown

Wishing for some more birthdays ...

2011-12-09T00:01:00.008-05:00

It's about the C word -- you're all familiar with it. There isn't anyone reading this who doesn't know someone fighting cancer, right? Maybe you're pressing on in the battle right now. Maybe it's your mom. Or your child. Maybe it's a friend. Hopefully, they're winning the battle. Unfortunately, that's not always the case.

The above video is dedicated to the people I know and care about who are doing what they can to overcome a disease that has robbed us of way too many ... way too young. It's dedicated to

my brother-in-law, Tom, whose battle began 13 years ago and he's still playing the part of warrior
my husband's first wife, Mary Ann, who was diagnosed 2 years ago and is staying strong in her fight
my son-in-law's mother, Brenda, who keeps discovering more tumors
my friend from college, Michael, who was told it's terminal, but he's not giving up

And to the survivors I know

my sister, Tina
my friends Trudi, Rocco, Laura, Kathy, Diana, Claire, LuAnn ...

I am so thankful to be able to add your names to this list. Birthdays. You get to celebrate them. How wonderful is that?!

But while there is so much being done to help, so much more needs to be done. We spend tons of money trying to find a cure, yet we need to focus on causes and not just cures. You know? Causes like toxins in our personal care products. Toxins in our fabric softeners. Genetically modified foods. Toxins in our clothing. Toxins in diapers. Toxins in formula.

Manufacturers need to claim responsibility and quite sticking pink ribbons on products that contain known carcinogens (what is that about?!). We, as concerned citizens, need to demand these things! Why? Because we all have our own lists of people, like mine above. We want to celebrate more birthdays.

Get involved. Sign petitions to congress. Boycott companies. Do your research.

It's about birthdays. And a lack of them.

And I'm writing this because I care,

Hana

This post is sponsored by American Cancer Society.

The tragedy of an undiagnosed stroke

2011-12-08T00:01:00.003-05:00

A few years ago, I was speaking with someone whose 2-year-old had suffered a stroke. I was shocked. At that time, I wasn't aware of that possibility.

Here are some disturbing facts from the Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association:

1 in 4000 babies will have a stroke
1 in 8300 children will have a stroke
Stroke in childhood causes multiple disabilities: paralysis, seizures, speech, vision, behavioral, and learning differences
Stroke in children costs at least $42 million annually in US

Yeah, that's worthy of writing about. Have you known anyone who has experienced a pediatric stroke?

Of course, most strokes happen to adults. Here are some statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

U.S. Statistics

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. More than 140,000 people die each year from stroke in the United States.
Stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States.
Each year, approximately 795,000 people suffer a stroke. About 600,000 of these are first attacks, and 185,000 are recurrent attacks.
Nearly three-quarters of all strokes occur in people over the age of 65. The risk of having a stroke more than doubles each decade after the age of 55.
Strokes can and do occur at ANY age. Nearly one fourth of strokes occur in people under the age of 65.
Stroke death rates are higher for African-Americans than for whites, even at younger ages.
On average, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds.
Stroke accounted for about one of every 17 deaths in the United States in 2006. Stroke mortality for 2005 was 137,000.
From 1995–2005, the stroke death rate fell ~30 percent and the actual number of stroke deaths declined ~14 percent.
The risk of ischemic stroke in current smokers is about double that of nonsmokers after adjustment for other risk factors.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an independent risk factor for stroke, increasing risk about five-fold.
High blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke.

Why am I writing about this today? Because of an email my husband sent me. It outlined the symptoms to watch for if you think someone may have had a stroke. Maybe my posting this will save a life. That would certainly make everything I've done on GG worthwhile.

Here are the things to look for:

S: Ask the person to smile and stick out their tongue. If they cannot smile or their tongue is 'crooked,' call 911 right away!

T: Ask the person to talk or speak a simple sentence. If the words are incoherent, call 911 right away!

R: Ask the person to raise his or her arms. Again, if this is a difficult or impossible task, call 911 right away!

Got that? S T R. Remember it. Write it down. Carry it in your wallet. You really never know when this critical information might be necessary. If the victim is treated within the first 3 hours of having a stroke, he or she has an excellent chance of full recovery. If not, severe brain damage can occur.

Knowing that kids can have strokes, too, is just as important to remember. After all, they're counting on us to protect them whenever possible. I hope you never, ever have to use the above tests on a child ... but just in case, please remember what to do.

Caring for your kids and you,

Hana

Review it Wednesday -- What exactly is in that little bottle of water?

2011-12-07T10:34:00.000-05:00

A couple of months ago, I was sent another product to review. Of course, as is always the case when someone sends me something to write about on the blog, I did not pay for it. You may think that motivates me to post a positive review, but I assure you, it does not. At the very least, I will simply send the product back with a note that I cannot possibly post a good review, as was the case with a children's book I received in October. There just wasn't much good to say about it and rather than pan it publicly, I just slipped it into an envelope and mailed it back to the author (it really was quite awful). I've seen other reviews of the same book and can't help wondering what the reviewers were reading/looking at!

Anyway, when I first received the Infotone Face Mist AquaLiv's BioT Bioinformation Technology, I was skeptical. After all, it was just a small, purse-sized glass bottle of water with a tiny white ball rolling around inside. Hmmm. This bottle of water promised hydration, glowing skin, firmness, fewer wrinkles, improved skin pigmentation and a clear complexion. Uh huh. And it was good for an entire year. All I had to do was fill the bottle back up with purified tap water or natural spring water.

At least it's free, I thought. It's worth a shot.

Well, let me tell you ... I'm in love with this product. If you haven't finished your Christmas shopping and have $35 to spend on someone on your list, this is what you want to get them. Seriously.

Since using the Infotone Face Mist, my skin is tighter, there is a slight lightening of those blasted age spots on my face (and hands) and a definite reduction in wrinkles. At this point, the only thing I'm using is my Norwex Body Cloths to wash my face (with plain water) followed by a generous spritzing of Infotone. That's it. No creams, no lotions. And my skin feels amazing.

What is it about this little bottle of spring water that makes it so remarkable? The secret is in the ball -- a little white non-toxic 100% natural mineral clay ceramic bead that contains AquaLiv's Bioinformation Technology. Skeptical? Well, the effectiveness has been scientifically proven by Dr. Sean Sleight, ph.D., Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington. The ceramic mineral bead has antibacterial properties designed to eliminate a common parasite that is linked to breakouts and irritated skin.

And it works. Really.

All you need to do after you cleanse your face is douse it good with a generous spray of Infotone Face Mist. Spray it on until your face is dripping wet. Then wait 60 seconds so the moisture can absorb. Pat dry. Follow with your normal cream or lotion, if desired.

Throughout the day, you can lightly mist your face right over your makeup. Of course, you want to do it lightly. It makes your skin sparkle a bit.

I don't restrict its use to my face, however. I use it on my neck (although I haven't seen improvement on the wrinkles there, unfortunately), and I use it on my hands at least once a day. Apparently, my nails and cuticles are loving it!

To dissuade the skepticism of my husband, I did the hand test -- I sprayed a generous amount on the back of Bill's right hand. We waiting a minute, then dabbed it dry. The difference in the texture of his skin was immediate! The back of his left hand was rough. The back of his right hand was considerably smoother. He's a believer.

And so am I. I can't recommend this product enough.

I love the fact that you can refill the bottle and use it for a year. That means I can spritz and spray to my heart's content, not worrying about "wasting" it or trying to preserve it. Cool, huh?

I love that it comes in glass. No plastic chemicals polluting a great product.

I love that it's all natural and safe. I can even spritz my granddaughter's face without being concerned.

I love that it was free ... but I will eagerly order another bottle at the end of the year ... and pay for it!

That's my review for today. Visit the Infotone Facebook page or website for more information. While you're on Facebook, 'like' their page -- it's just a nice thing to do.

Infotone Face Mist ... you get Green Grandma's two green thumbs up!

Reviewing it for you,

Hana

Deck the halls then rush out to the malls ... what's happened to Christmas?

2011-12-06T10:49:00.000-05:00

I read an interesting blog post this morning called, I Hate Christmas by Sammy Adebiyi. While I appreciated what he had to say, it reminded me of reasons why I Love Christmas, and prompted me to repost the article I wrote on Black Friday 2009. Hope it gives you a different perspective as well.

Black Friday ... a blessing or a curse

Photo by David Wagner

I'm not one to rush out on Black Friday and battle the crowds for a deal. As a matter of fact, I purposefully hole up in my home on that day and avoid the malls. But I certainly don't bemoan the brave (or crazy) souls who choose to embrace the challenge of getting a good deal.

Then there are those who will complain that Christmas is too commercialized and either forsake Americanized traditions or will partake, but moan and groan about it continually. The emergence of sayings such as, "Jesus is the reason for the season," did little more than create more products to buy to advertise that very fact in your home. However, regardless of your spiritual leaning, Jesus IS the reason for the season, and no amount of commercialization can change that.

Yes, I know the day started off as a pagan holiday, but it's been transformed, shall we say, "reborn," and is, without a doubt, a day where Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Emmanuel...the day when God Himself chose to come and dwell with us.

But what about the commercialism? Hasn't that tainted a "holy" holiday?

Not in my opinion. I celebrate the commercialization. Why? For a variety of reasons.

As a Christian, I find it refreshing to hear carols wherever I go, whether I'm in the mall, a doctor's office, a workplace, a flower shop...at what other time of year do you hear the name of Christ proclaimed so unashamedly? I rejoice to hear The First Noel or O Holy Night when I'm grocery shopping or getting my hair cut. I see it as creative evangelism.

Another reason I'm all for the commercialization of Christmas is because, despite the fact that it may bring out the worst in people (particularly on Black Friday), it also brings out the best in them. There is no other time of year when people reach as deeply into their pockets and give. Whether it's giving of a present to a family member or friend, taking cookies to a neighbor, leaving a generous tip for a waiter, slipping a twenty dollar bill into a red kettle or writing a check to a charity, December's giving far exceeds any other month of the year.

Think for a moment what would happen if we eliminated Christmas as a national holiday...if we stopped the commercialization in its tracks. Within the next few years, how many of your favorite retail stores would close their doors? How many non-profits would cease to exist. How many homeless people would die without organizations like the Salvation Army offering shelter and a warm meal? It's rather scary when you think about it.

And what will happen to the Christmas story two or three generations from now? Would it cease to exist as well in the minds of the majority of Americans?

Would Christmas become a quiet holiday shared only by the faithful few who still believed the God who created the Universe would come to earth as a newborn babe? That seems like a far cry from the glory that surrounded that first Christmas as angels sang and announced the birth of a Savior and shepherds rushed to worship Emmanuel. And let's not forget the journey of the Magi -- seeking out their King and bearing gifts.

Singing. Rushing. Giving gifts. Christmas. I celebrate the birth of my Savior. And I celebrate the commercialization of His birthday. When you hear someone saying "Merry Christmas" as they leave a store or restaurant, it just might be me. It may not be politically correct, but let's face it folks...it's what it's all about.

Keeping it real,

Hana

A Sabbath surprise

2011-12-05T11:27:00.000-05:00

The congregation was excited. Our associate pastor, Tom Fodi, who is an Air Force Chaplain serving in Iraq, was about to appear on screen via Skype. The anticipation swelled as the young man in the multimedia booth announced to his father Bob Hartman, the pastor, that something wasn't working. Imagine Tom's mother's disappointment as she was eagerly awaiting the sight of her only son's face and the soothing sound of his voice. Now imagine her delight when, instead of seeing him on the screen, she watched as he walked through the side door, crossed the front of the sanctuary and wrapped his arms around her!

Photo credit: KDKA

That's what happened at church yesterday morning. And I missed it. As I mentioned last week, I felt it was important to go to Manheim, PA and spend the weekend with my mom, which is where I was when this glorious moment unfolded before the eyes of my church family, who, as is apparent in the news coverage video, was squealing, screaming, sobbing, etc. to see Tom home safe again. Only a handful of people knew he was coming home, including his wife, of course, who got the news just a few days beforehand. His dad found out 10 minutes before church began, but his mother was clueless. What a moment.

For any of you who have prayed for the safety of someone they loved who was serving overseas and then finally felt their blessed embrace, you know a little bit of what yesterday felt like to the members of Emmanuel Christian Church.

We're a small congregation, and yesterday, there were close to 30 regular attenders missing. How disappointing for each and every one of us.

Click here to watch the CBS/KDKA news coverage of the homecoming surprise. Look at Carol's face. That is the face of a mother whose prayers have been answered. I can't help thinking of Jesus when I watch this ... about how His face must light up as His children come home. I look forward to someday seeing that look as He wraps His arms around me in safety and says, "Welcome Home."

Sharing my Sabbath experience with you (even though I missed this one!),

Hana

2011-12-03T00:01:00.001-05:00

Christmas, my child, is love in action.

Every time we love, every time we give,

it's Christmas.

--Dale Evans

Friday's 3Rs -- this is something to sing about!

2011-12-02T00:02:00.003-05:00

I'm psyched about this. I just found out that Pennsylvania-based company, C.F. Martin and Co. is now making guitars out of recycled Sitka Spruce from dismantled bridges from Canada. What does that mean? It means less trees being cut down to create Martin Guitars!

The company started putting environmental policies into place in 1990 and continues to investigate ways to implement more sustainable practices on a day-to-day basis.

Rather than going on and on about it, please refer to the YouTube video I've posted below. It's actually quite interesting stuff.

C.F. Martin and Co. ... You get GG's two green thumbs up!

Now, if only I could play ...

Keeping it out of the landfill,

Hana

Responsible Guitar Building

2011-12-02T00:01:00.002-05:00

The flip of the calendar

2011-12-01T09:44:00.002-05:00

A friend happily posted this on Facebook today: IT'S DECEMBER!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I must admit, I don't share her enthusiasm. December. Really?! What happened to this year? Things that happened last November seriously seem like they happened just three or four months ago. Is it an age-related thing that time flies by sooo fast?

I must also admit I'm not at all ready for Christmas. There already are not enough hours in the day to include shopping and wrapping and visiting, etc., etc. But somehow it will all get done, albeit with a bit of sleep deprivation.

When I spoke with my mom a couple of weeks ago, she told me she doesn't want people to buy her anything, she just wants us to come visit. There was an uncharacteristic quiver in her voice as she said it.

"I get so lonely," she continued.

My mother will be 85 next month. She lives alone 240 miles away from us. Neither of my sisters live close by either, and she's been widowed twice. She doesn't need another robe. She needs company.

So, back to my dilemma of not having enough hours in the day. I don't. However, tomorrow morning, I'm loading up the car, picking up my daughter and granddaughter and we're heading east on the turnpike.

Mom with the lovely little Lady Laura

What do I miss out on? A full day of work, light up night in the small town where I'm being featured as "Artist of the Month" in one of the stores that is selling my book, a Saturday that would normally be chock full of chores and my Sabbath routine.

What do I gain? Invaluable time with the woman who gave birth to me, read to me, scratched my back as I laid across her lap on long car trips (things were a lot different then!), helped me with my homework, sewed my clothing for me, taught me how to be a savvy shopper, encouraged my creativity, typed my essays for writing competitions, demonstrated a strong work ethic, modeled tenacity and courage, adored my children and grandchildren, gave generously, and so much more. May I never complain about taking the time to visit with her, for there will come a day when that will no longer be an option.

What about you? Is there someone in your life who you never seem to have the time to squeeze in a visit with? If they were gone tomorrow, would you have regrets.

It's December! Possibly the busiest month of the year. Don't let your busyness crowd out what is truly important?

Could I stay in Pittsburgh and get some shopping done? Sure. But Mom doesn't want presents, she wants my presence. So that's what she's getting. That and a couple of bottles of Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar which she hasn't been able to find anywhere. Oh, and a copy of book, of course.

So, tomorrow morning, as Laura and I like to sing,

We're going, going, going to Grandma Gene's.
We're going, going, going to Grandma Gene's.
We're going east on the turnpike,
east on the turnpike,
east on the turnpike
to Grandma Gene's!

What can I say? Laura and I sing about everything!

Sharing my heart,

Hana

Cat litter review -- it's a stinky job, but someone has to do it

2011-11-30T00:08:00.002-05:00

When I received an email asking me to review World's Best Cat Litter™, my immediate response was, "Yes, yes, yes!" After all, I'd recently learned about all the horrific health problems associated with clay cat litter ... health problems that led to the death of some of my kitties. To think those conditions may have been caused by the litter we were using appalled, disturbed, angered and depressed me. Seriously. Not to mention the environmental impact strip-mining 1.5 million tons of clay every year was having. And the assumption that clumping clay litter never biodegrades in the landfill. Ouch.

So, without hesitation, we made the switch to better alternatives. We tried a few different ones and simply were not happy with them. I don't recall the names of the first couple, but we did eventually try Swheat Scoop. While it was an effective litter, I did not appreciate the little specks of wheaty litter scattered throughout my house. Yuck.

I was desperate to find a solution when, out of the blue, I got the email. I'd never heard of World's Best Cat Litter™ and thought it was a rather presumptuous name. After reading about it, I must admit, I hesitated. Why? Because it is made from corn and I have a problem with using corn for things other than food. It seems we are depleting the food supply in our global effort to be green, and that is counterproductive.

I expressed my concern in a return email. Here is the response I got:

"We chose whole-kernel corn as the source of World's Best Cat Litter™ for a number of reasons. Whole-kernel corn is all-natural and highly absorbent, so it provides superior odor control and instant clumping for easy clean-up. Unlike clay litters, it is biodegradable, renewable, and sustainable.

Our family of companies manufactures many products from corn that include food ingredients for human consumption, pharmaceutical products, animal feeds, and our cat litter, among others. The amount of corn used in the manufacture of World's Best Cat Litter™ is insignificant compared to global production and does not contribute to higher food prices or to food shortages.

For over 50 years, corn has been used in the paper industry, for adhesives, corrugated products, etc. When we make products from corn, it is not a choice of whether to feed people or not; we are providing products that enhance our everyday lives, and support the American farmers and the overall economy. Other examples of corn-based products used everyday include: batteries, candles, cosmetics, automobile cylinder heads, and shoe polish. We are proud to manufacture a product that is safe for humans, animals, and the environment -- made from a renewable resource that is biodegradable."

Fair enough. Besides, I wasn't finding a good solution for my cat litter problem that was healthy for the cats and the environment. So I decided to give it a try ... or should I say my husband gave it a try. After all, being the gentleman that he is, he doesn't want me touching the litter boxes, and I'm not going to argue with him, being the submissive wife that I am.

Anyway, he cleaned out the 2 of the 3 boxes and emptied them of the remaining Swheat Scoop. Then he refilled them with World's Best Cat Litter™.

His first reaction? There was no dust. Hallelujah for that! After years of breathing in the toxic dust from clay litter, a dust-free alternative moved up quickly on the approval rating. He was surprised by the appearance of the litter, expecting it to look more like, well ... corn. It doesn't. It looks a lot like clay litter.

Next test was whether or not our three kitties would use it. They now had choices. Two boxes with the corn-based litter and one with the wheat-based litter. Guess what? Apparently, all three of them chose the corn.

What does that mean for us? No more litter debris trampled through the house, onto the bed, in the rugs, etc. None. There seems to be no tracking with World's Best Cat Litter™. Higher up on the approval rating.

What about clumpability (cool new word, don't you think?)? Excellent.

Odor control? Excellent. To quote Bill, "It seems even better than the others, if that's possible."

"You mean, as far as odor absorption?"

"Yeah, that's it. It seems to absorb the odors."

This is good stuff. Darn good stuff. Is it the world's best litter? I don't know. I've not tried them all. Is it the best we've tried? Absolutely.

What is it about the clay litters I don't like, other than the environmental issues? Well, for one thing, the sodium bentonite particles in the litter dust (strewn into the air every time you pour the litter or your kitty scratches in it) contains silicon -- a known carcinogen!! That should be enough of a reason right there! But that's not all. Clay litter has been linked to respiratory problems, intestinal blockages, and a menagerie of other potential conditions.

Admittedly, I have not tried the recycled paper option, although I do like that idea.

For now, we are happy with World's Best Cat Litter™ and intend to keep using it. Here are some facts about this litter:

It's biodegradable that can be flushed, if you so choose. We have old pipes and are very careful what we flush, so this isn't an option for us.
There are three formulas --

Clumping Formula (for homes with one to two cats)
Multiple Cat Clumping Formula
Scented Multiple Cat Clumping Formula (with 100% all natural scented lavender oil)

There are various sizes, from 7 lbs. to 34 lbs.

The downside? It's a bit pricey. But so are vet bills and if you're concerned about the health of your cats, it's worth it. These guys are:

On a side note -- if you decide to switch from clay litter (please do) and you're thinking about trying Fresh Step Crystals, I urge you to reconsider! This silica-based litter is reported to be tied to lung cancer, bronchitis and a form of tuberculosis that can be fatal for your kitty.

Today only (11/30/11) -- if you 'like' their Facebook page, you will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card to Target, PetSmart or Petco!

If you're not convinced about World's Best Cat Litter™, I suggest you head over to the website, find a retailer close to you (Target, Petco and PetSmart all carry it) and pick up a 7 lb. bag. Give it a try and decide for yourself. You just might realize you've discovered the world's best cat litter!

Keeping it green in the litterbox,

Hana

Christmas trees – how green can you get?

2011-11-29T00:01:00.002-05:00

Today's guest blogger, Sue Hartman, shares her thoughts and ideas on where your Christmas tree choices fall on the green meter.

Evergreen in Snow by David Wagner

Christmas Trees
How Green can you Get?

1. Least Green
Buy a plastic or metal tree that goes into a landfill when you are done with it and stays there for however many hundreds of year. Making it also takes up valuable resources. Some twisted metal trees can be recycled – check with your local recycling center. If it is still in good shape, but you want to switch to a live tree, consider donating it to a Goodwill or local community center.

2. Good
Buy a live tree, use it, and set it out for the trash (not in a big plastic bag or you are back to the landfill issue as in number 1.

3. Better
Buy a live tree, use it, then chip or mulch it yourself, donate it to be chipped/mulched or put it somewhere on your property to break down organically and enrich your soil. You can use Earth911 to locate your nearest Christmas tree recycling program.

4. Even Better
Buy a live tree from a Christmas tree farm that will immediately plant one in its place, and then follow the disposal directions above.

5. Best -- Most Green
Buy a live tree with the root ball from a Christmas tree farm or a nursery. Put it in a washbasin or large bucket of some type and keep it watered. Use it for the holidays and then plant it on your property afterwards.

Based on the experience of some who have done this, here is some advice on what to consider before you choose this option:

Buy a slightly smaller tree than you might otherwise, as you will be trying to move it in its root ball in and out of your house and into its planting hole after Christmas.
Look up. As the tree grows, is it going to hit power lines or other obstacles? Find out how high the tree is expected to grow.
Look down and around. Remember that the roots will grown out from the tree at approximately the same length as the tree is in height. The growing roots can lift up sidewalks and driveways if planted too close to them. Avoid planting trees near house foundations or underground services.
Realize that pine trees make your soil more acidic and will kill any surrounding grass.
Plant the tree away from the house. Dropped needles are very slippery. Do not plant your tree where the needles will fall onto steps, sidewalks or driveways as the tree grows.
Either dig a large and deep planting hole early in December. Digging through frozen ground in January can be challenging.
Buy a small potted tree and simply decorate that. The small pines, such as a Norfolk, can be reused and repotted year after year.
After Christmas, if you don’t have the space or ability to plant the tree on your own property, donate your potted tree to a local park, church, school or friend.

Sharing someone else's thoughts on just another way to go green this Christmas,

Hana

The Sabbath Experience ... during the holidays ... are you kidding me?

2011-11-28T10:17:00.001-05:00

Lincoln being cute on Thanksgiving

Okay, so I'll admit a major fail on the whole 'resting on the Sabbath' part of my experiment/experience. Christmas is next month, after all! I don't know about the rest of you, but when we deck the halls, we really deck the halls!

Our tradition is to start decorating the day after Thanksgiving, and to devote the next three days (and then some) to doing just that. But first, we have to take down all the fall decorations (my favorite). I have lots of cabinet space in my basement workshop dedicated to storing them, so I spent much of Friday cleaning up the workshop, putting away the pumpkins and candles and wreaths, etc., and pulling out the assorted winter decor items stored down there. Bill went to work on decorating the outside of the house, because we decided he couldn't pass up the opportunity to put out lights in 60 degree temps! It was a gorgeous day.

Laura being equally cute

Normally, part of Friday is spent carrying all the boxes and boxes and boxes down from the attic. But we broke tradition this year and didn't do that until early Saturday afternoon. There was plenty else to do before we starting digging into boxes anyway ... like cleaning.

On Sunday, we went to Sunday School and church, and then out to lunch with the kids and grandkids. By the time we got home, it was 3:00. I ran down to Goodwill with a carload of stuff to drop off, and then did a little shopping. Sunday slipped by quickly, and as evening arrived, chaos still ensued throughout the Caye house. Boxes scattered on the floor and decorations, in no particular order, strewn across the dining room table and a bunch of other surfaces.

End result? Everything, except the family room and some of the outside, is finished. The family room will take awhile yet, since that's the room with the tree, and trees take ... well ... a long time to decorate. Such a lot of work, but the end result is lovely and we enjoy it.

Relaxing yesterday would have been very difficult, because of the mess. However, a client wanted a voice-over demo recorded, and I ignored the request (it was a Sunday, for goodness sake!). But here's the thing. I never specified which day had to be honored as the Sabbath. The important thing to me was to have a day set aside, no matter what that day happened to be. So, with that in mind, I did honor the Sabbath this week; I just did it on Thursday. Since the family came over to celebrate Thanksgiving on Wednesday, that gave me all day Thursday to simply relax and reflect on God's innumerable blessings. We started off at church for our yearly Thanksgiving service and then headed out to brunch at Totin's, a local family-owned diner. The service and food was excellent and we enjoyed a lovely conversation with Joanne Totin. Somehow (however could that happen?) this included a discussion about vinegar.

We spent the afternoon relaxing, ate leftovers for dinner and then headed to the neighbors' for dessert. It was a different Thanksgiving, but a lovely one nonetheless.

So I guess I enjoyed a Sabbath rest after all! I hope you found a moment or two to stop the busyness.

Sharing my Sabbath experience,

Hana

A Vinegar Black Friday

2011-11-25T11:16:00.000-05:00

It's Black Friday! And what does that mean to me? Absolutely nothing. You wouldn't catch me out there amidst the craziness today! Not me.

What does it mean to you? Well, for one thing, it means a sale on Vinegar Fridays! Actually, a big one! Today through Cyber Monday, I've reduced the price by 25%. In addition, Lulu is offering another 25% off through Sunday. Simply enter the code HOLIDAYNOW. Now, it's just possible they'll be offering an even bigger sale on Monday, but I have no way of guaranteeing that. All I can guarantee is my own 25% off sale today, tomorrow, Sunday and Monday. Fair enough?

I will also send out signed bookplates for you to put inside the cover. Simply email me and let me know what you'd like for me to write on the bookplate. Don't forget to include your address.

Enjoy your weekend out and about, relaxing at home, or simply doing what I'm doing -- decking the halls (and walls, and tables, and mantle, etc., etc., etc.).

Saving you green with Vinegar Fridays,

Hana

Thankful for Creation

2011-11-24T00:11:00.000-05:00

Photo by Michael Bousquet

Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, Thou art very great;
Thou art clothed with splendor and majesty,
Covering Thyself with light as with a cloak,
Stretching out heaven like a tent curtain.
He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters;
He makes the clouds His chariot;
He walks upon the wings of the wind;
He makes the winds His messengers,
Flaming fire His ministers.

He established the earth upon its foundations,
So that it will not totter forever and ever.
Thou didst cover it with the deep as with a garment;
The waters were standing above the mountains.
At Thy rebuke they fled;
At the sound of Thy thunder they hurried away.
The mountains rose; the valleys sunk down
To the place which Thou didst establish for them.
Thou didst set a boundary that they may not pass over;
That they may not return to cover the earth.

He sends forth springs in the valleys;
They flow between the mountains;
They give drink to every beast of the field;
The wild donkeys quench their thirst.
Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell;
They lift up their voices among the branches.
He waters the mountains from His upper chambers;
The earth is satisfied with the fruit of His works.

He causes the grass to grow for the cattle,
And vegetation for the labor of man,
So that he may bring forth food from the earth,
And wine which makes man's heart glad,
So that he may make his face glisten with oil,
And food which sustains man's heart.
The trees of the Lord drink their fill,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
Where the birds build their nests,
And the stork, whose home is the fir trees.

The high mountains are for the wild goats;
The cliffs are a refuge for the rock badgers.
He made the moon for the seasons;
The sun knows the place of its setting.
Thou dost appoint darkness and it becomes night,
In which all the beasts of the forest prowl about.
The young lions roar after their prey,
And seek their food from God.
When the sun rises they withdraw,
And lie down in their dens.
Man goes forth to his work
And to his labor until evening.

O Lord, how many are They works!
In wisdom Thou hast made them all;
The earth is full of Thy possessions.
There is the sea, great and broad,
In which are swarms without number,
Animals both small and great.
There the ships move along,
And Leviathan, which Thou has formed to sport in it.

They all wait for Thee,
To give them their food in due season.
Thou dost give to them, they gather it up;
Thou dost open Thy hand, they are satisfied with good.
Thou dost hide Thy face, they are dismayed;
Thou dost take away their spirit, they expire,
And return to their dust.
Thou dost send forth Thy Spirit, they are created;
And Thou dost renew the face of the ground.

Let the glory of the Lord endure forever;
Let the Lord be glad in His works;
He looks at the earth, and it trembles;
He touches the mountains, and they smoke.
I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
Let my meditation be pleasing to Him;
As for me, I shall be glad in the Lord.
Let sinners be consumed from the earth,
And let the wicked be no more.
Bless the Lord, O my soul.
Praise the Lord!

-- Psalm 104 (NASB)

Happy Thanksgiving!