Multitasking, a term frequently used to denote the process of serial tasking, is often employed to increase productivity. However, as I indicated in my previous post on the topic, recent research indicates that productivity can actually be blunted by multitasking. If this is the case, then what strategies can boost … [Read more...] about Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 2)
Keeping the Home
Popcorn: A Healthy and Affordable Snack
Popcorn is often overlooked as a relatively healthy snack option. This may be because it is often prepared or served in unhealthy manners, such as butter-drenched “movie theater” varieties or those popped in pre-sealed microwave popcorn bags that generally contain high amounts of unhealthy fats, numerous chemicals and artificial flavors, and … [Read more...] about Popcorn: A Healthy and Affordable Snack
Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 1)
Do you unload the dishwasher as dinner cooks on the stove…while you talk on the phone, compile a grocery list, and have a load of laundry going? Engaging in all of these activities at once is an example of what is commonly referred to as “multitasking.” I’ve done this a multitude of times and I often think I’m more productive and efficient … [Read more...] about Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 1)
Healthy Game Day Snacks
The biggest football game of the year is just over a week away. Traditional game day snack menus feature everything from fried chicken and bacon-wrapped cocktail weenies to loaded nachos and pizza. While some of these options are tempting, I’m considering some healthier alternatives. I will not pretend the selections featured below are as … [Read more...] about Healthy Game Day Snacks
Should I Purchase an Extra Freezer?
We’d been having a bit of an issue with freezer space… …so my husband and I began considering the possibility of purchasing an extra freezer. Do the benefits of an extra freezer outweigh the costs of purchasing and providing power for one? Benefits of having an extra freezer You have room to store foods purchased in bulk. Several … [Read more...] about Should I Purchase an Extra Freezer?
Rampant Reusing: Wire Hangers
While wire hangers can always be employed for their intended use (you know…hanging clothes), I’m not pleased with their performance in this capacity. As a result, the wire hangers my husband and I have are currently taking up space without providing any benefit. Hopefully, with the help of the ideas listed below, this will change. 10 … [Read more...] about Rampant Reusing: Wire Hangers
Cuban Ham and Bean Soup with Cilantro Lime Rice
Earlier this week I pulled from the freezer what remained of our leftover Christmas ham. The ensuing dish was amazing! Soup ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 tablespoons minced garlic 1/2 of a red bell pepper, seeded and chopped 2 cups cooked ham, chopped 2 cups cooked black beans or 1 (15 oz.) … [Read more...] about Cuban Ham and Bean Soup with Cilantro Lime Rice
Handling the Upfront Costs of Buying in Bulk
The judicious purchase of foods and household items in bulk can be a wonderful strategy for decreasing how much you spend on groceries. While bulk purchases often have lower per unit costs, they do cost more upfront because you are buying large quantities. A 16 oz. package of pasta costs $0.99. You can get the same pasta for only $0.83 … [Read more...] about Handling the Upfront Costs of Buying in Bulk
