After a long, hot summer, we finally had a truly chilly morning a few days ago. Though it was still dark, I stepped outside with my coffee to take it in. I stepped to the edge of the porch and poked at the crisp grass with my foot. This brought to mind how, in response to someone who has become a little detached from reality, folks will … [Read more...] about Go Touch Grass! It’s Good for Your Health
health and safety
Are Expensive Toothpastes More Effective?
Last time I was at the dentist for a teeth cleaning, the dental hygienist handed me a toothpaste sample on my way out of the office. Because it was small in size, I took the sample with me when we traveled to look for housing before our move last fall. I really liked its flavor, so I went to add some to my cart last time I needed toothpaste. … [Read more...] about Are Expensive Toothpastes More Effective?
Solutions for Stinky Shoes
I’m starting this year by literally airing some dirty laundry. In recent months, my family has had quite the problem with stinky shoes. My kids’ shoes, my husband’s shoes, and my shoes—all are victims of bromodosis (the scientific term for smelly feet). I’ve tried several approaches for removing the odor. After numerous attempts, I … [Read more...] about Solutions for Stinky Shoes
Christmas Light Safety Tips
The glow of Christmas lights is one of the many enjoyable aspects of the Christmas season. Unfortunately, for many families, the tradition of Christmas lights quickly turns to tragedy. In the U.S., nearly 15,000 people are treated in hospital emergency departments each year because of injuries related to holiday decorating (source). … [Read more...] about Christmas Light Safety Tips
Mosquito Repellents: What Products are Safe and Effective?
My kids and I have been covered with itchy mosquito bites these last few weeks. These bites are an unpleasant effect of spending so much time outside this spring. I’m typically concerned about mosquito bites because they cause discomfort, but the reality is that they’re also a potential health treat. Twelve of the 200 types of mosquitos that … [Read more...] about Mosquito Repellents: What Products are Safe and Effective?
Essential Items for Your Disaster Preparedness Kit
You can’t go but a day or two without turning on the news and hearing about a disaster. Sometimes these are natural disasters such as floods and wildfires, and other times they are man-made disasters such as hazardous material spills and industrial accidents. Because disasters are common and no geographic location is immune to them, it is … [Read more...] about Essential Items for Your Disaster Preparedness Kit
Pointers for Picking the Perfect Pillow
I’ve noticed some soreness in my neck recently. It has been some time since I replaced my pillow, so I think there’s a good chance replacing it will eliminate the soreness. I began looking at pillows and immediately noticed two things: there’s a plethora of options available and many options are quite pricey. I haven’t been very picky … [Read more...] about Pointers for Picking the Perfect Pillow
How to Get Up the First Time Your Alarm Sounds
I frequently find myself reexamining content contained in blog posts I wrote years ago. During the past few weeks, the post I’ve been considering is about getting up the first time your alarm goes off. I wish I could say that I mastered this after writing about it seven years ago. It seemed that I had—I did quite well for years. … [Read more...] about How to Get Up the First Time Your Alarm Sounds
