I'm sure you remember me talking about how much I'm still on the computer. And, it bothers me a bit. I never wanted to completely stop using the computer, but I did (and do) want to cut back. It's easy for me to say that I'm just going to jump on for a second to check my email, but it invariably turns into more than that. In addition, I'm in the process of starting up two at-home businesses. One focuses on kids, the other on adults and both will require me to put in some more time at the computer. So, I need to make some changes. If you follow the blog on Facebook, you know already know what one of those changes is. I'm going to restrict my regular blogging to Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Now, that doesn't mean I won't throw in an occasional Wordless Weekend or Tuesday Tidbit, but I think that this will not only free up some more of my time to actually learn and do all the things I want to tell you about. It will also ensure a high quality post. As I learn more and readership grows, I may go back to every day posting. We'll see where this leads and play it by ear.
Another change, is a step back from some of my crafting. I love my clay, but listing and promoting Michigan Mud is another chunk of online time that I could be using to do something more immediately pressing. The studio is going to remain open and I'm still going to list from time to time, but there is definitely going to be a pullback. Now, I'm crafty by nature so I'm still going to do crafts, but I'm going to be in more of a learning phase for awhile and not limit myself to things that I have to get posted in the store. Some of what I make will be for gifts, some will be for me and my family to enjoy and some will just be for the learning experience. I promise I will still show off all the successes and failures to you.
So, there it is. A couple steps that will be harder for me than for you, I'm sure. :) I hope you keep reading. In the next few weeks I have plans to show off my gardens (which actually have things growing in them!), a whole bunch of craft and project ideas and my business plans. Stay tuned and I'll be back on Wednesday!
May 23, 2011
May 20, 2011
Operation: Pantry Clean Out
In the days before my "from scratch" resolution, I stocked up my pantry-with all the canned, processed stuff you would expect in a pantry. Now, I want to get rid of that stuff. I want to make room for home canned and preserved or, at least, locally preserved foods. So, I need your help. Do you have a great "from the pantry" kind of recipe? Send it to me and maybe you'll see it featured in a future post!
May 17, 2011
Tuesday Tips and Tidbits: Green Camping
So, many of the picnic tips from last week hold true for camping, as well. But what about campfires? How about some chemical-free fire products? Bonus: They are made right here in Michigan!
You can also go the crafty route and make your own firestarters from upcycled egg cartons (the paper kind), clean sawdust and old wax. That's what I do, but if you're more of a "buy ready made" type-check out Murray Products.
May 16, 2011
Spicy Asian Dipping Sauce
OK, this is another one of those embarrassingly easy recipes that I shouldn't even put on here. But, it's yummy, so here it is. This summer, when the peppers are in, I'm going to try a fermented pepper sauce that I have directions for, but for now, here's the easy one.
Asian Dipping Sauce
Ingredients:
Asian Dipping Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chili garlic sauce (add more if you like it spicier)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- Mix everything together and let rest.
May 11, 2011
Product Review: Sprout Organic Baby Food
I know, I know-you're wondering why I'm reviewing baby food when I make my own. Well, truth be told, I often use commercial baby food when we travel. It's easier on so many levels. Plus, there are so many great combinations that I would never think to put together (roast bananas and brown rice, roasted apples and blueberries, etc). Since I still want the food I give my little guy to be healthy and ecologically responsible, I was ecstatic to find Sprout.
First of all, Sprout was co-founded by Chef Tyler Florence. If you have ever tried any of his recipes, you know that this means you're getting a good-tasting baby food. And it is. I tried some. Have you ever tried regular commercial baby food? Not yummy. But this stuff is! Next, it's organic. This makes it better for my baby and better for the environment. The packaging is BPA-free, takes up less room then other methods and can be upcycled by crafty folks (craftier than me...).
Now, Sprout is a bit more expensive than other traditional brands. It's a bit more than $1 per pouch, which is one serving for my little guy at this point. However, I would point out that you get what you pay for. And, I can't think of anywhere else that you can get healthy, organic, prepared food for around $1 a meal.
Whether you feed prepared baby food exclusively or are looking to supplement homemade, check out Sprout. It's available in stores or online. I think your baby will love it!
First of all, Sprout was co-founded by Chef Tyler Florence. If you have ever tried any of his recipes, you know that this means you're getting a good-tasting baby food. And it is. I tried some. Have you ever tried regular commercial baby food? Not yummy. But this stuff is! Next, it's organic. This makes it better for my baby and better for the environment. The packaging is BPA-free, takes up less room then other methods and can be upcycled by crafty folks (craftier than me...).
Now, Sprout is a bit more expensive than other traditional brands. It's a bit more than $1 per pouch, which is one serving for my little guy at this point. However, I would point out that you get what you pay for. And, I can't think of anywhere else that you can get healthy, organic, prepared food for around $1 a meal.
Whether you feed prepared baby food exclusively or are looking to supplement homemade, check out Sprout. It's available in stores or online. I think your baby will love it!
May 10, 2011
Tuesday Tips and Tidbits: Greener Picnics
I love a good picnic. I love eating outside. I don't mind a little wind or dirt. Heck, even most bugs don't faze me for a second. Now, when most people, and I'm as guilty as the next guy, get ready for a picnic they pack up disposable dishes, paper napkins, individually packaged everything (juiceboxes, soda cans, bags of crackers or cookies, etc) and head out. Then we spray ourselves down with chemical-laden sunscreens and bug repellents that are as bad (or worse) for our health as they are for the planet. So, in honor of summer and the fast approach of picnic season, I encourage to visit the Earth Share website to get some great tips for a greener picnic.
