Grocery shopping — such a routine errand once before — now is an entirely new endeavor. Today it requires packing the gloves and mask, wondering what items will be in short supply, and remembering to follow the one-way aisle rules. It’s not what it used to be. On top of that, you must remember to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines on social distancing — which … [Read more...]
Worried about your plants turning brown?
March 11, 2020 By
Seeing some of your plants turn brown in the winter can be a bit concerning. It’s good to know that it’s normal for many plants, such as turfgrasses, to go dormant and turn brown in the winter. The plant is protecting itself during cold temperatures and lower light levels. Typically, plants will recover once spring arrives. However, hard freezes may injure or potentially kill some … [Read more...]
To celebrate Pi Day, let’s make some pie
March 4, 2020 By
You might have heard that March 14 is Pi Day — in honor of the math constant ?. Perhaps you recall from your middle school days that Pi (?) equals 3.14, hence, March 14 is the day set aside to celebrate Pi Day, or in the case of this column — to celebrate pies. Pies comes in so many varieties. There’s apple, pumpkin, sweet potato, blueberry, kumquat, cherry, chocolate, and that’s just … [Read more...]
Keeping food safe when the power goes out
September 4, 2019 By
Even though hurricane season officially began on June 1, we’re approaching the season’s peak, which typically runs from now until late October. Statistics show that Sept. 10 is the most likely day to find something stirring in the Atlantic. So if a storm came through and your power went out, would you know what to do with your food? Also, what food would you eat to keep you and your … [Read more...]
Paninis help relieve stress on school days
August 7, 2019 By
It’s August — and that means families will be getting back into their school routines. Besides gearing up in the morning, there’s the evening to think about, too. As kids get into their extracurricular activities and homework habits, there is usually one part of the day that can get particularly stressful: dinnertime. We all hear that this should be family time, a time for no TV, a … [Read more...]
Natural ‘enemies’ can attack garden pests
July 24, 2019 By
Summer months may stress plants because we often see periods of increased rainfall and then periods of drought along with intense heat. And, when plants are stressed, they may be more susceptible to pests. When it comes to combating these pests, don’t forget there are many natural enemies that eat pest insects. These natural enemies, that are considered good or beneficial, include … [Read more...]
Father’s Day is a big day for grilling
June 12, 2019 By
Father’s Day is often associated with grilling. Grilling accessories are a popular Father’s Day gift idea, and some dads use this time of year to purchase a new grill — with businesses often offering special sales. Father’s Day also is a time when families often go fishing — with fishing gear also being a popular gift category for dads. So, why not tie those two themes together for a … [Read more...]
If you want a quick and refreshing meal, try these chicken salad recipes
February 20, 2019 By
Sometimes you just want to make something simple, quick and delicious — and chicken salad is just that thing. Here’s a little stash of chicken salad recipes to keep on hand for when you need them. Enjoy! First, to prepare the chicken. Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless 2 low-sodium bouillon cubes (granules or liquids can be used), along with water to make 2 … [Read more...]
Have some Hoppin’ John, and a Happy New Year
December 26, 2018 By
The beginning of 2019 is right around the corner, and celebrating the start of a New Year often involves partaking in a traditional food ritual to promote health, luck and prosperity in the year ahead. In the Southern United States, many subscribe to the notion that eating just a bowl of Hoppin’ John will bring you good fortune in the New Year. The ritual dates back to the 1800s in South … [Read more...]
If you’re having a holiday party, these recipes may help
November 28, 2018 By
Planning to entertain for the holidays? Whether you’re planning a small gathering with “finger foods” or a full meal, these ideas may help you get started. Hors d’oeuvres — which literally means “apart from the main work/meal" — can be a great way to feed your guests during a cocktail hour, or, can take the place of a meal. In the United States, we often refer to these foods as “appetizers.” … [Read more...]
