Colleges With Nursing Majors In Nyc

New York City: Home of several prominent nursing programs.

There are a number of prominent nursing schools in New York City, offering you a chance to study in one of the most in-demand job fields. Schools offering a nursing major in New York traditionally give students a variety of degree options and also provide opportunities for advanced study beyond the baccalaureate degree.

Columbia University

U.S. News & World Report ranked Columbia's School of Nursing the No. 19 in the nation when it last ranked nursing programs in 2007. Columbia offers an accelerated program that combines earning the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in nursing (MSN) degrees into one plan of study. The MSN program has 10 areas of concentration, including women's health, gerontology, midwifery, anesthesia and neonatal nursing. The school also offers sub-specialties in the areas of end-of-life care, HIV/AIDS, addictive behavior, genetics and oncology. Columbia offers both a Ph.D. and the DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) degree. Joint degrees are also possible in the areas of public health and business administration.

Columbia University

School of Nursing

630 West 168th St.

Mailbox 6

New York, NY 10032

212-998-5317

www.cumc.columbia.edu/dept/nursing/

New York University

New York University's Division of Nursing was ranked No. 26 in the nation by U.S. News in 2007. Like the Columbia program, NYU's offers a major in nursing at the undergraduate level. The bachelor's degree program has been successful in preparing students for licensing exams, boasting a pass rate of better than 90 percent. Students wanting to go beyond the bachelor's degree can pursue the MSN or a Ph.D. in the field of Research Theory and Development. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is also offered at NYU. NYU's nursing school sponsors various research centers, such as the the Center for Continuing Education in Nursing and the Center for Drug Abuse and HIV Research.

New York University

Division of Nursing

246 Greene St.

New York, NY 10003

212-998-5317

www.nyu.edu/nursing

Pace University

The Pace University Lienhard School of Nursing was ranked No. 63 nationally by U.S. News in 2007. The nursing major at Pace can be pursued individually or jointly with other degrees, including a master's. Lienhard offers a Master of Science and a certificate of advanced graduate study in its Family Nurse Practitioner program and awards a Master of Arts in Nursing Education. The school also offers the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

Pace University

Lienhard School of Nursing

1 Pace Plaza

New York, NY 10038

914-773-3552

www.pace.edu/pace/lienhard

Tags: School Nursing, Doctor Nursing, Doctor Nursing Practice, Nursing Practice, Pace University

Reheat Rotisserie Turkey Breast

Reheat Rotisserie Turkey Breast

Rotisserie turkey breast is prepared, so the moisture and flavor is sealed into the meat. This makes it a deliciously moist meat that can be eaten with side dishes as a meal or sliced thin for sandwiches. Knowing reheat a rotisserie turkey breast gives you the ability to enjoy the meat as a leftover snack or meal. An easy task for even the novice to complete, reheating turkey breast doesn't have to affect the flavor.

Instructions

1. Slice the needed amount of meat from the cold rotisserie turkey breast. This allows you to reheat small amounts at a time, instead of reheating and refrigerating the turkey repeatedly, which ruins the texture and flavor of the turkey breast.

2. Place the slices of meat on the plate, making sure they are not overlapping one another.

3. Stretch a sheet of cling wrap over the plate to cover the meat completely.

4. Microwave the meat on high for 1 minute per 1/2 lb. of meat. This makes sure that the meat doesn't get overcooked and rubbery in the reheating process. If you're unsure of how much the meat you are reheating weighs, microwave it in intervals of 30 seconds until it is warm enough to consume.

Tags: turkey breast, meat This, meat This makes, Reheat Rotisserie, Reheat Rotisserie Turkey, Rotisserie Turkey

Make Soap

Instructions

Prepare

1. Gather all the ingredients required for making soap.

2. Collect all the necessary equipments that you need.

3. Collect the safety gear.

4. Put on the apron and rubber gloves and wear the goggles. Remember, lye is dangerous and can cause severe burns.

Make soap

5. Take the weighing scale and place a plastic container on the scale.

6. Add water in the container and carefully mix in lye in 1:3 ratios. For e.g. For 11 ounces of lye use nearly 33 ounces of water to mix it. Remember to add lye to water and not vice versa.

7. Be very cautious as lye emits lot of heat and fumes when mixed with water. Therefore, mix the lye and water in an open place as the fumes can be dangerous when inhaled.

8. Let the lye cool down. This will take around two to three hours. Ideally, prepare the lye mixture one day in advance and leave it at room temperature.

9. Measure the lard and oils and pour them in a stainless steel or enameled container.

10. Put the container on the stove and heat it slowly till the fats melt and form a uniform mixture.

11. Stir gently and use the thermometer to check whether the mixture has reached the ideal temperature, which will be between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

12. Add the lye mixture to the fats carefully and slowly. Use a spoon to mix the solution while you are pouring lye.

13. Stir the mixture well using a stick blender and spoon alternately for short spans. For e.g. If you have used blender for 1 minute, follow it with mixing with spoon for nearly the same time. Do not use the blender continually for longer duration.

14. Note that the texture of this mixture will start changing in some time; say in about 5 minutes. It will become thicker and more opaque. This is soap in liquid form.

15. Measure out the fragrance and add it to this mixture and stir again with a spoon.

16. Add 1 oz. coloring dye if you want to add some color to the bland soap mixture. Use the blender to mix the color uniformly.

Mold soap

17.Pour the mixture into the plastic molds immediately and let it cool down.

18. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours. You will know that the mixture has condensed if its temperature has dropped down to the roam temperature. It may be still a little warm to touch, which is fine.

19. Remove the soap bars from the molds. They should pop right off, but you may need to twist the tray a little so that they may come off.

20. Still struggling? Put the molds with the soap mixture in the freezer for 2 to three hours. Take it out and use a blow dryer on the back side of the mold for a few seconds to dislodge the soap. This will make the soap come off instantly.

Tags: cool down, room temperature, soap mixture, this mixture, This will, three hours

Harvest Basil For Pesto

Basil pesto is often used to flavor pasta.

Basil adds a punch of flavor to most any dish. With its bright and savory notes, basil is used in almost everything from appetizers to desserts. One delicious preparation in which the herb is the star of the show is basil pesto. Basil pesto is simply a flavor-filled thick sauce that is added to soups, meats and almost anything you can imagine. Pesto is also a way to use up large amounts of basil. Harvesting the basil correctly improves the flavor of the dish and keeps the plant healthy. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Plan to pick the basil leaves just before the plants flower. Basil plants tend to flower when they have six leaf sets on a stalk; therefore, plan to pick the leaves when there are four sets. Typically, basil plants are ready for harvest about every three weeks.

2. Locate the area where the leaf meets the stem. Basil leaves grow in sets, and the leaves are located opposite each other on the main stem. At the same leaf junction, you will likely spot a pair of small basil leaves growing as well. Cut your large basil leaf by its stem with a pair of scissors or gardening shears, directly above the smaller leaf. Doing so stimulates the smaller leaf to start growing. Since pesto requires large amounts of basil, plan on harvesting a lot of leaves, typically about 2 cups.

3. Use your basil in pesto as soon as possible because the fresher the basil is, the more flavor it has. Place the basil in a vase or glass filled with water until you are ready to use it, or store it in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature, which typically keeps for 10 to 14 days.

4. Freeze the pesto you cannot use right away. Pour the paste into an ice cube tray, then remove the cubes once frozen and transfer to a freezer storage bag. Pesto typically also freezes well in small plastic storage containers.

Tags: amounts basil, basil pesto, Basil pesto, large amounts, large amounts basil

Grow Vegetables For Sale

Selling vegetables that you grow can assist you in enjoying healthier meals -- and healthier profits.

Are you tired of purchasing poor quality vegetables at your local grocery store that go bad within a matter of days, or even worse, just a matter of hours? Do your friends and neighbors in your community share the same frustration? You can opt to grow your own produce and even offer it for sale. Selling your own vegetables in your community can provide a local -- and green -- alternative to expensive vegetables that have subpar quality while also providing a productive new business.

Instructions

1. Research local business guidelines in your city, state and county regarding sales and business of agricultural produce. Some areas require a sales permit in order to sell vegetables, but overall requirements vary according to where you intend to sell your produce. Apply for all the required licenses and permits in order to avoid trouble with the law.

2. Select the land to be used for agricultural business purposes. Depending on where you live, you might be required to use land that is approved for agricultural use. You'll also need to consider water costs and supply.

3. Plant your vegetable seeds and cultivate your vegetable garden, according to gardening guidelines for your area. Research fertilizers to discover ones that will assist in growing large and healthy crops. Use crops that are native to your region for best results.

4. Pick your vegetables at their peak, following packaging guidelines. Choose the freshest, largest and healthiest crops to set aside for sale to customers.

5. Sell your produce through one or more channels of sale. You can offer your produce for sale at the local farmer's market, locally through your neighborhood grocery stores or directly to your customers. You can set up a website so customers can place orders online or can purchase directly from you during designated hours.

Tags: your produce, guidelines your, vegetables that, vegetables your, your community, your vegetable, your vegetables

Cool Cheap Gifts For Men

One cool cheap gift idea includes a remote control.

Finding a cool gift for a man often involves shelling out a lot of money. Conversely, many gifts under $25 rate low on the cool factor such as neckties, money clips and books. However, a number of cool gift ideas for men under $25 include remote controls, personalized lighters and sports-themed barware.

Remote Control

Every man prefers to be in control of the remote control, and a gift that won't bust the wallet includes a remote that controls more than just the television. These remotes that control up to five devices have a wide range of sizes and colors and they often price under $25 as of 2010. The remotes have the ability to control DVD players, Blu-ray players, CD players, cable boxes and home sound systems along with the television. Buyers doing some extra searching can also find novelty remote controls that look like "Star Wars" lightsabers, a golf course fairway and small footballs.

Personalized and Novelty Lighters

Even if the special guy doesn't smoke cigarettes, a personalized lighter remains an appropriate and cool gift. Many specialty lighters such as Zippo-brand lighters have a stainless steel outer shell, which allows for adding a name, phrase, initials, monogram or birth date. Other lighters come in various novelty shapes and designs such as a pocket calculator, a cell phone, small animals, a tube of lip balm or even a hot dog in a bun. The lighter comes in handy for outdoor enthusiasts or someone lighting a few candles for a romantic evening.

Sports-Themed Barware

Sports-themed barware comes in a variety of choices such as rocks glasses, shot glasses, pint glasses, bottle openers, keg taps and beer mugs. You can chose from professional sports teams such as National Football League teams, Major League Baseball teams and National Basketball Association teams. Barware also comes themed after large collegiate sports programs such as teams from the Big Ten conference, Big East conference and the SEC conference.

Tags: cool gift, includes remote, remote control, remote controls

Chemical Free Carpet Cleaning

Carpet

Although using chemical-based products like 409, Woolite Carpet and Febreeze to clean our carpet is a regular occurrence, if you are cleaning a carpet where a small child or special needs person will reside, then it is best to clean without chemicals. Even though cleaning without chemicals may take a little bit more "elbow grease," you'll be able to make your carpets beautiful without worrying about the effects of chemicals. Does this Spark an idea?

Clean Stains as Soon as Possible

Because you won't be using any strong chemicals, it is very important that you get to each individual stain as fast as possible. Natural and chemical-free remedies are not as strong as chemicals, and will need to be used before the stain is able to set in order to work at maximum efficiency.

Use Household Products

There are plenty of items that are in your pantry that are perfect for cleaning without chemicals. One of the most useful is club soda. After a messy cranberry juice or wine spill, pour a liberal amount of club soda over the stain and then blot with a rag. To clean greasy stains like cooking or motor oil, pour a little baking soda or corn starch over the stain to soak up the liquid portion of the grease, and then use a rag to blot the rest. When all else fails, you can also use diluted dishwashing soap on a stain. Add 3 to 4 tbsp. of dishwashing soap to 1 gallon of water.

Steam Clean With Vinegar

If you need to clean an entire carpet, the easiest way is to use a steam cleaner. However, instead of filling the detergent bin with hard carpet cleaners, fill it with a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part vinegar. Once you have finished steam cleaning the entire room, it will probably smell a lot like the inside of a pickle jar, but if you go over it again with hot water in the detergent bin, the smell should fade away.

Tags: without chemicals, cleaning without, cleaning without chemicals, club soda, dishwashing soap, over stain

Winter Over In A Travel Trailer

Most travel trailers, even four-season trailers that are designed with some weather protection, are really made for warm weather. You can still enjoy the wonders of winter in a travel trailer provided you prepare well. It takes only a few steps to ensure that you stay warm and safe, even in the coldest climate.

Instructions

1. Build an insulating layer around the bottom of your trailer. This is called trailer skirting. Use lumber or plywood, and double it with foam insulation. It should run from the outer edges of your trailer to the ground to prevent cold air from blowing underneath. For added freezing protection, you can put a heat lamp under your water and holding tanks.

2. Insulate all exterior valves and pipes using electrical heat tape. You can find heat tape at your hardware store. Wrap it carefully around all valves and pipes, then add plastic sheeting for water protection and finish with duct tape to secure in place.

3. Insulate interior plumbing as well, when possible. Hard-to-reach interior plumbing can be heated by placing light bulbs in compartments near pipes, dumping valves and the water pump. If you are not able to use bulbs to heat interior plumbing, put antifreeze in the holding tanks and fresh water tank, and use city water.

4. Leave the water heater on at all times. This will help prevent pipes from freezing.

5. Insulate all windows and skylights inside. An easy way to do this is to tape plastic sheeting to windows, adding foam pieces if the window will not be used for light. For skylights, cut foam pieces to dimension and secure in place. You can add acrylic fleece to the foam for a better fit, and place heavy curtains or blankets over doors and windows to further prevent cold drafts.

6. Keep holding tanks closed until ready to dump. This will prevent water from freezing because it is allowed to stay in the pipes for a long time.

7. Keep a few gallons of fresh water at hand in case your city water supply freezes.

Tags: holding tanks, interior plumbing, city water, foam pieces, fresh water, from freezing

What Are Some Cons For Whey Protein Powder

Drinking an inadequate amount of water when using whey protein powders can cause dehydration.

People who are trying to build muscle mass should consume one gram of protein per pound of body weight, every day. For a man weighing 180 pounds, that's equivalent to six 8-ounce steaks. Whey protein powders offer a convenient way to boost your daily protein intake, and most powders also provide all of the essential and non-essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. However, there are potential cons to consuming whey protein.

Utilization

Your body can only absorb and utilize a certain amount of protein at any one time. It is unnecessary to consume a serving of whey protein powder containing more than 30 grams of protein because it is likely that the excess will just be wasted. The gastric emptying properties of whey means most of the protein is metabolized in the liver and not digested at all.

Dehydration

Metabolizing proteins requires a lot of water, and without this knowledge, many whey protein users regularly suffer from dehydration. High protein diets also require more water consumption in order to flush out the excess nitrogen.

Kidney and Liver Stress

If consumed in excess, the consumption of whey protein powder can place stress on the kidneys and liver, especially if coupled with an inadequate intake of water.

Digestion

Digestive problems, such as bloating and gas, are commonly reported. These problems usually only occur with cheaper brands of whey protein powders that often do not contain the right types and proportions of digestive enzymes.

Cost

Supplementing your diet with whey protein powders is not cheap. Taking the recommended dosage of a decent powder can cost $50+ per month.

Tags: protein powders, whey protein, protein powder, whey protein, whey protein, whey protein powders

Growing Vegetables For Profit

Growing vegetables for sale has long been part of the country scene. These days, urban dwellers are seeking a cut of the profit, too, especially with the heightening popularity of naturally grown foods. You can earn a good income on as little as one acre of land, whether you lease, own or rent. Or you can plant in a city greenbelt or community plot. But even if you have the green knack, you must preplan. Does this Spark an idea?

Major Decisions

Two major decisions will influence each other: what to grow and your market. Study both well. Either you can grow a wide range of vegetables, as you might for your family, only more of each vegetable, or you can grow a lot of a few kinds. If you think your market will be local people coming to you weekly, grow a wide variety. Otherwise target a few kinds for sale at farmers markets or to groceries, restaurants or other institutions. Outlets such as hospitals are buying natural foods for patients' menus. The amount you produce will be limited by the amount and type of your land.

A decision to grow naturally will determine how you maintain your crops and will affect marketing. Regardless of your approach, decide in advance on how you will control weeds, pests and diseases.

Soil and Climate

Choose vegetables based on soil and climate. Some soil might be too hilly or require extensive additives. And some vegetables do best in a particular soil; for example, potatoes like deep, well-drained sandy or silty loam. Use a soil testing kit and especially watch the pH value, the acid/alkaline content. Vegetables grow best with pH of 6.5 or 7.You can prepare your soil if, for example, it is too acidic, but the methods may be limited if you're gardening naturally.

Consider the factor of climate. Tomatoes, for instance, grow best in sunny, warm conditions. Also, you need to know the length of your growing season and when to harvest. You might want to invest in mechanical gardening aids.

Plants and Seeds

Some plants, such as tomatoes, require a lengthy growing period. Get a head start by using plants instead of seeds, unless you have a greenhouse or access to one. Always buy quality plants or seeds and avoid discount items found in variety stores. Start with crops that are easy to grow--for example, lettuce or onions--to gain experience. Then try others, such as tomatoes, and learn the best growing methods.

Plans and Plots

Keep in mind that vegetables need sunny, open spaces to thrive. Although grouping vegetables in beds is now common for family gardens, traditional row planting is still recommended for commercial plots. Till the soil prior to planting, and plan in advance the location and amount of each vegetable. Plant short-season varieties continuously throughout the season to avoid having too much all at once of one or two kinds.

Maintenance

Hoe regularly, rake out dead weeds and water consistently; you may need a soaker hose. Rotate crops to help control disease and preserve soil nutrients.

Tags: each vegetable, grow best, grow wide, soil example, such tomatoes

What Does Kosher Mean In Relation To Food

Jews have been eating kosher food since biblical times.

Jews who eat kosher foods trace the rules for the food back to the book of Leviticus, which spells out what foods are allowable and ensure that they are kosher. .

Kosher animals

Meat from sheep is kosher

Leviticus 11:3-8 states that animals that both chew their cud and have a cloven hoof--among them oxen, sheep and goats--are clean. Animals that live in water are kosher if they have both fins and scales.

There has been much debate about animal products, such as dairy, but dairy products are generally deemed kosher if they come from a clean animal.

Unkosher Animal Parts

Jews are prohibited from consuming blood . To avoid this, meat is soaked in water and thickly covered in salt. The salt draws the blood out of the meat, which is washed twice more.

This technique is insufficient to remove blood from organs. If organs are to be eaten, they are roasted as this discharges blood.

Meat from a clean animal can be nonkosher if it incorrectly killed. Slaughter must not make the animal suffer unnecessarily.

Nonkosher Food

The main reason for food being nonkosher is that it has come from nonkosher animals. For meat to be kosher, it must have been ritually slaughtered. Other nonkosher actions include serving dairy and meat together; a non-Jew producing wine or people using utensils that have previously been used for something nonkosher.

Tags: clean animal, come from, from clean, from clean animal, have been, kosher they, Meat from

The Role Of Microbes In Yogurt Production

Yogurt is a popular and healthy snack and is an important part of many cuisines.

Yogurt is a cultured food, which means that it relies on live microbes to transform it from fresh milk into yogurt. It is generally made by mixing a small amount of active yogurt with milk, where the microbes are allowed to flourish and begin the process again. As with sourdough, this perpetuation means that individual strains may survive for a very long time. The microbes themselves have a very specialized and important role to play in the production of yogurt.

What Microbes Are in Yogurt?

The two strains of bacteria used to make yogurt are Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. It is theorized that these bacteria were accidentally introduced to fresh milk along with plant matter, since L. bulgaricus are closely related to a strain of plant-dwelling bacteria. Once the advantages of yogurt were seen, these bacteria were intentionally cultured in fresh milk to make more yogurt. S. thermophilus appears to have a symbiotic relationship with L. bulgaricus, since both are always present in successfully cultured yogurt.

Why Culture Yogurt?

Yogurt has several advantages over fresh milk, especially for a pre-industrial society. Most importantly, yogurt is far less perishable than fresh milk, particularly when no refrigeration is available. It is thicker than milk, which makes it easier to store and broadens its cooking applications. It gains a tart flavor that many people find appealing. Finally, since it contains less lactose than fresh milk, it is easier to digest, particularly for people with some form of lactose intolerance.

How Yogurt Is Formed

The basis of yogurt is the transformation of lactose into lactic acid by L. bulgaricus. This process makes the yogurt more acidic, which thickens the proteins in the milk and causes it to become more viscous. The acidity prevents colonization from other microbes, which aids in preservation. By breaking down lactose to make the lactic acid, the microbes lower the levels of lactose in the yogurt. It is unclear what role S. thermophilus plays in all of this, and it may be there simply to help L. bulgaricus fight off outside microbial invaders during the early stages of the process.

Effects of Yogurt on the Microbes

Since yogurt is cultured by mixing a bit of yogurt with milk, all yogurt-producing strains essentially share a common ancestor, stretching back from batch to batch. Living in fresh milk and yogurt was a striking change in environment from feeding off plant material, and the bacteria have altered their genetic makeup to match. Modern L. bulgaricus lacks several mechanisms for breaking down plant sugars that its wild cousins retain, while both L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus have substantially altered their biology to fit more easily into the world of yogurt. In essence, the two species have been domesticated by long human cultivation.

Tags: fresh milk, altered their, bacteria were, breaking down, lactic acid

Fondue Restaurants In Reno Nevada

Fondue is a fun idea when looking to eat out in Reno, Nevada.

The word "fondue" comes from the French word "fondre" for "melted." Fondue is usually a warm, cheesy, communal, and fun food, perfect for an evening out with friends. It is also a dish served at all levels of eateries and with many creative trendy twists on the classic recipe. From sweet chocolate to the traditional Swiss style, it's being served up in ways old and new throughout Reno, Nevada.

The Melting Pot

The Melting Pot, as its name implies, specializes in fondue and serves it at a higher caliber than most restaurants. There are three main styles of fondue available: cheese; a cooking broth for the main course ranging from coq au vin to Bourguignonne, which is a hot oil; and for dessert a variety of rich chocolate fondues. All fondues are served with a variety of complementary dippers. For chocolate pots, dippers include fresh banana and strawberry slices, pound cake, cheesecake, marshmallows and brownies. For the main course, a vegetable medley includes mushroom caps filled with the restaurants own Green Goddess sauce is provided along with various meats. Cheese fondue is available in Cheddar or the Wisconsin Trio and sometimes includes seasonal flavors. Cheeses have a variety of seasonings including white wine, sherry, scallions for the Wisconsin Trio; and beer lager and garlic for the Cheddar. Cheese is served with veggies, tart Granny Smith apples and fresh-baked French, rye, and pumpernickel bread cubes.

The Melting Pot

6950 S. McCarran Blvd.

Reno, NV 89509

775-827-6500

meltingpot.com/locations.aspx?z=&n=108489

La Fondue

La Fondue creates European cuisine in a fine dining atmosphere. Many specialty fondues are made here, including the Classic Alpine Cheese fondue. The recipe uses imported Swiss cheeses for a classic European fondue experience. The restaurant also serves the a trendy Semisweet Chocolate fondue with fruit, cake and other goodies. A unique option offered by La Fondue is the Ice Cream Fondue. Vanilla flavored ice cream and multiple dipping sauces are flambeed tableside.

La Fondue

120 Country Club Drive, #66

Incline Village, NV 89451-0000

866-739-4893

lafonduetahoe.com

Vino Reno Fondue House

The Vino Reno Fondue House is a good place to go for moderately priced fondue and a theme that embraces how fun fondue can be. Like many other fondue serving eateries, it's available in three styles: hot oil, chocolate and cheese. The amount and types of dippers available for the chocolate and cheese is similar to most fondue places, but they have a bit more to offer when it comes to the hot oil dippers. Veggies that accompany it include peppers, zucchini, yellow squash and cauliflower---a bit of a change from the common tomatoes and broccoli served by other fondue places. The cheese is a combination of Monterey Jack and Gruyère and is served with bread and apples.

Vino Reno Fondue House

6520 S. McCarran Blvd.

Reno, NV 89509

775-828-3475

Tags: Fondue House, Reno Fondue, Reno Fondue House, Reno Nevada, served with

Cooking Instructions For Calrose Rice

Rice is a staple around the world and can be found in nearly every variety of cuisine.

Calrose rice is used in a variety of recipes by chefs all over the world. It's mild flavor and sticky quality make it excellent for use in curries, sushi, stir fries and steamed plain as a side dish. Cooks will find that this rice is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Blend it with spices, herbs, aromatic oils and a variety of vegetables to change-up the flavor and add a little zest to your cooking repertoire. Rice cookers are the best way to cook rice, but preparing it on the stove top also returns delightful results. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Measure out the desired amount of uncooked rice (1, 2, 3 or 4 cups) and pour it into the sauce pan or soup pot.

2. Fill the pot 3/4 of the way full with cook water and scrub the rice with your hands to remove most of the starch and sediment. Drain the water from the rice and repeat this process one more time.

3. Add 1-1/4 cups water per 1 cup of uncooked rice to the pan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Add salt at this point, if desired. 1/4 tsp.alt per 2 cups of rice should be sufficient.

4. Reduce the heat and cover the pan with a tight fitting lid. Allow the rice to simmer (covered) until all of the water has been absorbed. Remove the pan from the heating element and let the rice sit for five minutes.

5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and drizzle a bit of sesame oil, if desired. You can also season it with a few turns of fresh cracked black pepper. Margarine or butter can be added as the rice is boiling if you prefer a buttery flavor.

Tags: rice with, uncooked rice

Make Shampoo

Make Shampoo

Many people are choosing to make their own shampoo, instead of purchasing it at the store. Look at the label on a bottle of shampoo, and you will see that it is full of chemical ingredients. When you make your own shampoo, you're not putting any harsh chemicals on your hair; you're saving money and having fun. You might even start your own shampoo business. Read on to learn more. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose two or three herbs for your hair type (see Tips). For example, crushed lavender flowers and rosemary work well with any type of hair. Purchase herbs at most natural foods and health stores.

2. Pour the distilled water into a small pot and bring it to a boil.

3. Put your herbs into a strainer over a glass jar or bowl.

4. Fill the bottle that you'll be using for the finished shampoo with the liquid castile soap.

5. Put your herbs into a strainer over a glass jar or bowl.

6. Place the cover on the container and let the herbs to steep anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on how strong your want the mixture. Be very careful that none of the herb leaves fall into the herbal water.

7. Pour the herbal water into the bottle with the liquid castile soap.

Tags: castile soap, glass bowl, herbal water, herbs into, herbs into strainer, into strainer, into strainer over

Healthy Diet For Those Over 50

Even though 50 may be the new 40---or even 30---in terms of society's evolving views about age, it is a logical point at which to re-examine your eating habits and to make sure you're getting all the nutrients that your body needs. Helpguide.org points out that a healthy diet can boost resistance to illness, sharpen mental acuity, increase energy levels, stimulate immune function and help manage chronic health problems.

General Dietary Guidelines

The National Institute on Aging offers a few general suggestions that can help you and others who are 50 or older to maintain a healthy diet. At least half of all the grain-based foods you eat should come from whole grains, and it's critical that you consume plenty of fruits and vegetables of different varieties and colors. Sharply limit your intake of high-sugar foods, fats and oils, taking care to minimize consumption of saturated and trans fats, particularly the latter.

Because your metabolism slows down with age, adjust your overall intake of food accordingly. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends that women over 50 limit daily caloric intake to 1,600 if they lead a sedentary lifestyle, 1,800 if they are moderately active and 2,000 to 2,200 if they are very active. Comparable figures for men who are over 50 are 2,000; 2,200 to 2,400; and 2,400 to 2,800.

Food Groups

The National Institute on Aging recommends that you try to consume the following amounts of food from each of the main food groups each day: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of fresh fruit; 2 to 3.5 cups of vegetables; 5 to 10 ounces of grains; 5 to 7 ounces of meat or beans; and 3 cups of fat-free or low-fat milk.

For substitution purposes, the institute offers some suggestions on equivalents. For example, two cups of a leafy vegetable, uncooked, is roughly equivalent to one cup of cut-up cooked vegetables, while a quarter-cup of dried fruit or a medium whole fruit is about the same as a half-cup of cut-up fresh fruit. One ounce of your daily grains allowance could come from a slice of bread, roll, small muffin, a cup of cold cereal in flake form, or a half-cup of cooked cereal, pasta or rice. Acceptable substitutes for an ounce of meat, poultry or fish might be a tablespoon of peanut butter, an egg, a quarter-cup of cooked tofu or beans, or a half-ounce of seeds or nuts.

Supplements and Hydration

In an article that appeared in the March/April 2007 issue of AARP magazine, Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition at NYU, suggests that people over the age of 50 should supplement their food intake with a daily multivitamin. Of particular importance are calcium and vitamins B12 and D. Nestle says older adults also need to ensure they are staying properly hydrated. She says that fluid intake can be monitored by checking your urine. If it's light in color, you're adequately hydrated, but if it's bright yellow and foul-smelling, increase your fluid intake.

Tags: come from, fluid intake, fresh fruit, healthy diet, Institute Aging

Budget & Money Management Facts

Budgeting is the best strategy for managing money. For the consumer or family, the budget is a tool for managing household expenses. For the organization, the development of a budget is much more political. A budget contains the priorities of the organization for spending. Individuals and families can learn some principles of money management by learning the budgeting practices of organizations.

Purpose of a Budget

The development of a budget helps the user track income, calculate how much can be paid for each recurring expense, calculate afford one-time expenses and allocate money for investments and savings plans. In an organization, a budget document reflects the institutional priorities for the year. In a consumer budget, there might be less planning, but the consumer still has to assign priorities to each budget item.

Money Management and Family Disagreements

In the "Pocket Idiot's Guide to Living on a Budget," authors Jennifer Basye Sander and Peter J. Sander explain the basics of money management. Household money management is one of the most common sources of disagreement in marriages. One USA Today article reported that 70 percent of married couples argued about money issues, with the use of credit and shopping and spending habits topping the list.

Free Money Management Advice

The Beehive offers consumers free money-management tools, including a tool for building a budget online. When consumers use a budget to plan spend and save their money, they encounter fewer problems in paying bills on time and repaying consumer debt such as credit cards and loans.

Government Assistance in Budgeting

Consumers can also turn to local, state or federal agencies for free money management tips. For example, following the collapse of the housing market in 2008, government agencies focused on providing debt counseling to consumers through outreach counselors such as small business development counselors in local development agencies.

Free Financial Advice from Commercial banks

Many banks and financial institutions in the United States offer free financial advice to customers, including manage money through direct deposit to savings and investments. Money management advice can be obtained by making an appointment with a bank's financial representative. Although banks use this service to attract new applicants for loans and other programs, a consumer can stop at the free advice with no obligation to join any new programs in most banks and credit unions.

Tags: development budget, Money Management, money management

Soften Jerky After It Dried Out

Reviving Jerky

Jerky is a popular and easily portable dried, flavored meat. But there is the dryness we expect of jerky and then there are times where it has lost too much moisture to be appetizing. This can happen if you are making your own jerky and dehydrate it for too long, or if the jerky is not kept in an air-tight container. However, there are strategies for bringing your jerky back to form. The specific method you chose depends on how quickly you need the softened jerky, and what you are planning to do with it once it is softened. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Microwave jerky for five seconds at a time until pliable. This is the quickest method, but also the riskiest. If the jerky cooks too long it will burn. Jerky softened by this method will not stay soft for long so eat right away.

2. Brush a little soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, water, or a mixture of these on the jerky and let it sit for an hour. Worcestershire and soy are the classic liquid flavors used in making jerky, so they are well-suited to softening it without diluting flavor.

3. Saute jerky if you are going to cook with it. Saute four ounces of finely chopped beef jerky in butter for a few minutes to soften. To completely rehydrate jerky for cooking, you can soak it in water for an hour.

4. Place the jerky in an airtight container with a moist vegetable such as a carrot or a stick of celery overnight. Just as a slice of bread softens brown sugar by transferring its moisture slowly, the vegetable will help soften the jerky. This is a slow method, but it is easy and safe.

Tags: softened this, your jerky

Squirrel Repellent Ingredients

Squirrel repellents contain various ingredients meant to deter the tiny animals.

Squirrels can be a nuisance to many homeowners, invading attics and chewing through wiring, or feasting on bird seed or landscaping plants. Many commercial squirrel repellents contain familiar ingredients that work to deter squirrels from a home or garden. Some people prefer to make homemade squirrel repellent using similar ingredients. Does this Spark an idea?

Ammonia

Ammonia has a strong odor that can deter squirrels and other animals. Some commercial squirrel repellents contain small amounts of ammonia. Colorado's Evergreen Animal Protective League (EAPL) suggests soaking rags in ammonia and placing them in areas where squirrels are unwanted. Ammonia-soaked rags work best in places like attics, where the smell won't disturb humans. Ammonia should be kept out of reach of children.

Hot Peppers

Hot peppers are another ingredient in commercial squirrel repellants. The capsicum in peppers irritates squirrels, thus deterring them from an area. To keep squirrels away from outdoor plants, exterminator Rick Steinau suggests mixing a small bottle of hot sauce with a gallon of water and a teaspoon of dish soap and spraying the solution on plants. The solution will need to be reapplied after rain or watering.

Bird lovers can use hot peppers to keep squirrels out of bird feeders. While eating hot peppers is uncomfortable for squirrels, birds are not affected by capsicum. The makers of Hare-Less animal repellent claim their hot pepper spray can be sprayed directly on bird feeders and bird seed to deter squirrels without causing harm to birds.

Natural Oils

Some gardeners use squirrel repellents that contain the oils of many different plants that are believed to deter squirrels. These oils provide a natural alternative to harsher repellents. Garden Naturals makes a squirrel repellent spray that combines hot pepper sauce with oils from garlic, onions, parsley, basil, thyme, coriander, cumin, mustard, rosemary, oranges and lemons. The company claims this mix of oils repels not just squirrels, but also deer, rabbits and plant-destroying insects.

Mothballs

Some homeowners have success deterring squirrels using mothballs. The EAPL suggests filling a sock with mothballs and placing it in the area where squirrels are becoming destructive. Mothballs contain chemical pesticides and are harmful to children, birds and household pets if ingested. It's best to use mothballs in areas that are completely inaccessible to small children and animals.

Predator Urine

Various commercial squirrel repellents use dried or liquid urine from natural squirrel predators, most often coyotes, to frighten squirrels. The squirrels smell the urine, think a predator is near, and leave. Animal urine is safe to use around children and pets. Many gardening shops and nurseries sell concentrated predator urine.

Tags: commercial squirrel, deter squirrels, squirrel repellents, commercial squirrel repellents, repellents contain

Cook Hot Cereals To The Right Consistency

Whether you enjoy thicker oatmeal as opposed to thinner oatmeal, cooking oatmeal is easy. The materials needed to cook oatmeal only involves you, the oatmeal, a pot and some water. Cooking oatmeal is simple, and you can modify the consistency to your liking. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Boil water in your pot. The consistency of your hot cereal will depend on your preference. If you want thicker cereal, add less water. If you want thinner oatmeal, add more water. So start with a 1 to 2 ratio of oatmeal to water. In other words, for every cup of oatmeal, add about 2 cups of water. Make sure you boil the water first, and then add the oatmeal.

2. Stir the oatmeal and water together to avoid clumping and to prevent the cereal from sticking and burning in your pot. Keep the heat low to medium.

3. Check that the consistency is right for you. If you want the oatmeal to be thicker, put the pot on the stove for a longer time and slowly mix it to the consistency of your choice. If the oatmeal is too thick, add water a little at a time until it thins to your liking.

4. Take the pot off the stove and pour the hot cereal into the bowl. Add your toppings and dig in.

Tags: consistency your, oatmeal water, thinner oatmeal, your liking

Feed A Japanese Coturnix Quail

Here's one possible outcome for Japanese coturnix quail.

The Japanese coturnix quail is a popular dish, and quail eggs are also in demand. Quail farmers set up tiers of brooder cages for the youngest quail, and then as they grow older, they move to larger cage networks, living in a grid that can be six cages high, extending far out in both directions. Feeding coturnix quail can take quite a while on the larger farms.

Instructions

1. Feed your hatchlings quail starter until they are 6 weeks old. This feed has all of the nutritional elements that a young quail needs, and it is designed with the simplicity that their digestive systems require.

2. Purchase coturnix quail feed at your local feed supply store. When checking out the nutritional labels, make sure to select a brand that has at least a 19 percent concentration of protein game bird layer.

3. Mix in some wheatgrass into your bird's feed. Just adding an ounce of wheatgrass juice gives your feathered friend the same benefit as eating almost 4 lbs. of leafy, green vegetables would -- an entire smorgasbord of amino acids, vitamins and minerals.

4. Place the blended food in your quail's cage. For laying hens, you'll want to add ground oyster shell or limestone to provide calcium. Your adult quail will eat about 1/2 oz. of your blend each day. Put the food out once a day, and don't put a whole bunch in to feed the quail for a few days. Each day, check to see if new food is needed, and keep water available.

Tags: coturnix quail, Japanese coturnix

Can Chili Soup

A pressure canner is used for canning chili soup.

It is necessary to use a pressure canner to can chili soup to prevent spoilage because of the acidity of the tomatoes and the meat in the chili. All pressure canners work differently so you will need to refer to the instructions that came with your canner for the correct processing temperature, the amount of water to add and proper procedures for venting and sealing. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use dried beans when you prepare your chili and only partially cook them, for 30 minutes instead of 2 hours. Fully cooking dried beans or using canned beans will cause them to become mushy during the canning process.

2. Cook the meat, beans, tomatoes and seasonings as called for by your recipe, but do not simmer until thickened. It will thicken during the canning process.

3. Pour chili into clean pint-sized jars. Leave 1 inch of headspace.

4. Put the lids and rings on the jars. Place the amount of water in the canner recommended by the manufacturer of the canner.

5. Place the jars on the rack in the canner. Set the temperature according to manufacturer's directions. Process the chili for 75 minutes.

6. Remove the cans from the canner with canning tongs. Allow to cool before storing.

Tags: amount water, canning process, chili soup, dried beans, during canning, during canning process, pressure canner

Purchase Organic Food & Other Products

All kinds of organic goods are available for sale.

Whether organic foods are healthier than regular grocery foods can be debated. For example, an article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concludes that no nutritional benefit is gained from eating organic food. On the other hand, a study in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine finds that organic produce has the potential to offer more vitamin C, iron, magnesium and phosphorus while carrying lower amounts of nitrates and pesticide residues. What is certain is that going organic is becoming increasingly popular. Moreover, buying organic products supports the efforts of farmers who use a more environmentally friendly approach to farming.

Instructions

1. Know the distinction between "organic" and "natural." Mayo clinic professionals warn that the terms "natural" "all natural," "free-range" and "hormone-free" should not be confused with "organic." An organic product is produced without chemical insecticides, herbicides or fertilizers. To be classified as organic, livestock must not be given antibiotics, growth hormones or medication. Instead, animals must be given organic food along with a clean environment, to cut down on infection and disease.

2. Know which words to look for to certify that produce is organic.

Buy organic products that are certified organic. The U.S. Department of Agriculture certifies organic goods, allowing only products with 95 percent of organic ingredients to use the title of organic, USDA organic, or certified organic. Goods made with more than 69 percent organic ingredients can have the classification "made with organic ingredients," while products claiming to be 100 percent organic must contain only organically produced ingredients. After USDA approval, a USDA seal may be placed directly on the packaging. A company that uses the certifications without approval can face a penalty of $11,000.

3. Look for fair-trade products in your search for organic products. FairTradeUSA, the leading third-party certification agency of fair-trade goods in the United States, reviews an array of organic and fair-trade goods, such as beans, apparel, coffee, cocoa, linens, fruits and veggies, honey and herbs. With a focus on promoting organic and on banning pesticides and chemicals, the standard for both fair-trade and organic products is that a healthy environment is supported by the growing and production methods used by farmers.

4. Buy organic foods strategically to keep costs down. Since farming organic is often more expensive than farming conventionally, organic foods can be more expensive for the consumer as well. Buy in bulk or use coupons on manufacturer's websites to save on organic meat and packaged goods. For produce, buy organic versions of products that are usually most loaded with pesticides. The Environmental Working Group has compiled reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to determine which produce is heaviest in pesticides. Called the "dirty dozen," the list includes celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, pears, nectarines, sweet bell peppers, spinach, cherries, potatoes, imported grapes and lettuce.

Tags: organic products, organic foods, organic ingredients, percent organic, products that, certified organic, Department Agriculture

Tips For Low Income Families

Low income families and families forced to live on one income because of layoffs can get into financial trouble. Spending more than you earn by taking on debt is a common pitfall that often can to bankruptcy. Taking steps change spending habits and save money by living frugally can help low income families live with more financial freedom.

Avoid Credit Cards and other Debt

One of the worst things you can do if you have a low income is to take on debt and use credit cards. When you use credit or take on loans, you pay the lender to use the money. If you have low income, it may be difficult to pay the loan back. Lenders typically impose higher interest rates on those with lower credit scores like low income earners, meaning borrowing money will likely be more expensive for those with low income than those with higher income. Avoid any offer that guarantees you quick cash or cash advances.

Tax Tips

Low income families may be eligible for a variety of tax breaks such as Earned Income Credit, tax breaks for dependent children and a making work pay tax credit. It is important for low income families to make sure that they receive all possible tax breaks; seeking advice from a tax professional can help you determine what tax benefits you quality for. Many online tax filing services offer free filing for filers who do not meet certain income thresholds.

Cut Unnecessary Expenses

Cutting back on unnecessary monthly expenses or finding cheaper alternatives is a way to increase the amount of income you have left over each month to devote toward savings. Services such as cable TV and digital cable can cost over $50 a month; consider subscription to a cheaper service like Netflix or view video content over the Internet. Reduce needless energy consumption by turning off lights when they are not in use and setting the thermostat lower in the winter. Avoid running air conditioning in the summer.

Scale Back Big Ticket Items

It can be tempting use savings carefully stashed away after months of careful spending on a big ticket item that you may not have been able to afford in the past. Big ticket items like HDTVs and new cars may seem like a good idea, but they lose value quickly, making for poor long term investments. Used cars and electronics that are only a few years old can cost less than half of the original price. It's usually not worth paying a premium for state of the art features: what is state of the art today will likely be standard or obsolete within a few years.

Tags: income families, those with, have income, will likely

Build A Fun Hotdog Cart

Build a Fun Hot-Dog Cart

Hot-dog carts are an excellent way for children to generate income in your neighborhood. You can build your own hot-dog cart for selling hot dogs on your front lawn or at the sidewalk. A few crafts supplies from a crafts store and some common household items and grocery food are all that you need. The hot dog cart is safe to use since there is no hot grill--the hot dogs having been made before it is on the hot dog cart. Get adult help to cook the hot dogs as well as to assemble your homemade hot-dog cart. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Go to a grocery store. Buy a package of hot dogs and a package of hot dog buns. Buy a hot dog fork and mustard and ketchup bottles. Buy paper napkins. Buy six different soft drink cans. Buy three plastic food containers that are all longer than a hot dog.

2. Place the two furniture dollies side by side on the sidewalk in front of your house. Open the legs of the folding table. Stand the folding table on the furniture dollies. Place a disposable plastic tablecloth over the folding table so that it reaches to the ground in front of the folding table.

3. Put two paper plates on the table face down. Draw wheel spokes on each of the paper plates with the black colored marker. Put pieces of double-sided cellophane tape on the inside of the two paper plates. Affix a paper plate to the bottom front left and right sides of the disposable plastic tablecloth that is in front of the folding table to make the "wheels" for your hot-dog cart.

4. Put one of the sheets of paper on the table. Write "HOT DOG STAND" in big letters on one of the sheets of paper with the black colored marker.

5. Put the other sheet of paper on the table. Write "Hot dogs/$2.00" and "Soda/$1.00" beneath it on the sheet of paper with the black colored marker--this will be the menu for your hot dog stand.

6. Go into the house. Put tap water into a pot. Put the pot on the stove. Turn on the stove. Open the package of hot dogs. Put the hot dogs in the pot when the water is boiling. Wait 10 minutes before turning off the stove.

7. Empty the water from the pot into the kitchen sink. Put the cooked hot dogs into the plastic food container. Put the lid on the plastic food container. Put the hot dog buns in the other plastic food container. Put the lid on the plastic food container.

8. Go back outside. Place the food containers with the hot dogs and the hot dog buns on the table. Place the ketchup and mustard bottles on the table. Place the napkins and hot dog fork on the table. Line up the soft drink cans at the front of the table.

9. Place the empty food container on the table to hold the money you will make from the customers buying hot dogs from your hot dog cart. Carefully push the table on the furniture dollies to move your hot dog cart down the street to a new location when you feel that you have sold all the hot dogs you can from the location you started in.

Tags: folding table, food container, plastic food, plastic food container, black colored, furniture dollies

Salary Of Airplane Hostesses

Airplane hostesses are responsible for safety and customer service.

Airplane hosts and hostesses, also called flight attendants, work long hours and spend a lot of time away from home. Their work injury rate is much higher than the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as working in a moving aircraft leaves flight attendants susceptible to injuries. Wage rates for flight attendants are consistent across regions and, due to the nature of the work, flight attendants usually only reside in certain states.

Beginning Flight Attendants

The BLS quotes the Association of Flight Attendants, the largest flight attendants' union, to state that beginning flight attendants made a median annual wage of $16,191 in 2009. Wages increase on a set scale as flight attendants gain experience. Starting wages for all flight attendants are generally identical, according to the pay scheme for new hires.

National Salary Averages

A total of 88,202 individuals were employed as flight attendants in the U.S. in 2010, according to the BLS. The average annual salary was $41,630. The median wage rate was $37,740; the bottom 10 percent of airplane hosts and hostesses made $24,930 or less. The top 10 percent made $63,990 or more.

Location of Flight Attendants

Flight attendants usually reside in the home bases of the airlines for which they work. For this reason, most airplane hosts and hostesses reside in a few U.S. states instead of in all parts of the country. Texas, California, Illinois, New York and Florida, in that order, had the highest levels of employment for flight attendants in the United States. Attendants can be away from their home base one-third of the year; during these periods their hotel accommodations and board are provided by the airline for which they work.

Highest Paying States and Metropolitan Areas

The state with the highest average wage for flight attendants was Michigan, according to the BLS May 2010 wage data, at $55,070 per year. Michigan was followed by Arizona at $52,480, Kentucky at $50,450, Texas at $47,500 and Washington at $44,630. The highest-paying metropolitan area in the U.S. was Detroit-Livonia-Dearborn, Michigan, at $55,120, followed by Warren-Troy-Farmington Hills, Michigan, at $54,360 and Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, Arizona, at $52,530.

Tags: flight attendants, hosts hostesses, airplane hosts, attendants usually, away from, Flight Attendants, flight attendants

Nutritional Benefits Of Raw Honey

Honeybees.

According to an article published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition entitled "Honey for Nutrition and Health: A Review" and written by Swiss Drs. Stefan Bogdanov, Tomislav Jurendic, Robert Sieber and Peter Gallmann, raw honey has health benefits that are both physiological and nutritional in nature. There is also a branch of alternative medicine based on it. Although commercially processed honey does have some benefits, they are only a fraction of those possessed by raw honey. The best raw honey is local raw honey.

Composition

Ninety-five percent of the dry weight of raw honey is composed of a plethora of nutritional ingredients that include carbohydrates (monosaccharides such as fructose and glucose, as well as 25 different oligosacharides), organic acids, proteins (enzymes and free amino acids), vitamins, minerals, polyphenols and aroma compounds. These all vary in amounts due to the botanical origin.

Physiological Benefits

Raw honey is antimicrobial in that it inhibits the growth of many microorganisms and fungi. The antibacterial effect of raw honey are both bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects, and it kills a long list of bacteria that include: Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae, Helicobacter pylori, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Salmonella cholerae-suis and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Raw honey also protects the body from over oxidation, which is critical to the maintenance of a properly functioning immune system.

Nutritional Benefits

Raw honey, especially the variety known as Manuka honey--a very potent antimicrobial honey, has been shown in scientific studies to have a carioprotective effect that actually stops dental plaque build up and gingivitis while strengthening tooth enamel.

The presence of raw honey, especially unifloral honeys of sour-wood, alfalfa and sage origin, also promotes an increase in good digestive bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli causing a prebiotic effect.

Raw honey also has a proven reductive effect on allergies.

Apitherapy

An entire branch of alternative medicine has developed over the years that centers around the use of raw honey and other bee products. It is known as apitherapy and is said to have remedies against over 500 diseases that affect every system of the body.

Tags: alternative medicine, Benefits honey, branch alternative, branch alternative medicine, effect honey, honey also, honey especially

Diy Chicken Feeding

Feed your chickens with a DIY feeder.

Feeding is a crucial part of being a chicken owner, and it is important you provide your farmyard friends with the correct nutrients. One of the most convenient ways to ensure a food supply in the chicken coop is by using a feeding tower or bucket. This provides a constant flow of grain inside the coop, which chickens can access when they like.

Instructions

1. Use the hand saw to remove the bottom of the larger bucket to make the base of the chicken feeder. Saw enough of the bucket off to leave a shallow dish, measuring 2 inches in height.

2. Drill six or seven 1/2 inch holes around the base of the 1 gallon bucket. Position the hole 1 1/2 inches from the bottom of the bucket. These holes allow grain to filter into the shallow dish.

3. Turn the small bucket upside down. Now, upturn the shallow dish and place it on top of the bucket.

4. Bolt the two buckets together. Simply drill a hole through the base of both and then secure in place with a nut and bolt.

5. Put the chicken feeder upright again. Stand it upright with the shallow dish on the floor.

6. Fill the smaller bucket and shallow dish with grain feed for your chickens. Put the lid tightly on top of the smaller bucket.

7. Position the bucket chicken feeder in the middle of your chicken coop. As the chickens munch through the grain the shallow dish will fill from the bucket attached inside of it.

8. Top up the smaller bucket when the feed runs low.

Tags: shallow dish, chicken feeder, smaller bucket, bucket Position, chicken coop, your chickens

Buy A Home Grain Mill

Because home grain mills are a specialty item. Although they are growing in popularity around the country, they are generally available only at specialty stores, food co-ops and online. The quality of home-milled flour is unbeatable, so the search to find a home grain mill to buy is well worth it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Asses your home milling needs and research what is available. If you will use your flour mill for daily bread baking, a quality impact mill would make a good investment. If you want a grain mill just to make cracked grain cereals, look for a less expensive basic auger mill. Read "Flour Power" by Marleeta F. Basey to learn more about grain milling and available grain mills.

2. Choose the type of mill you would like to purchase. Impact mills cannot make cracked grains used for hot cereal, such as oat groats. To grind grains for hot cereal, you'll need an auger style mill such as KitchenAid or a hand mill such as the Back to Basics grain mill.

3. Check local flea markets to find a grain mill and speak to vendors who are there often. Many find items to resell at the flea market, so ask them to keep an eye out for a home grain mill for you and give them your contact information. Also, ask family and friends to keep an eye out at yard sales. Look in local classified ad papers and online at Craig's List for second hand grain mills.

4. Ask about mills at an owner-operated general store. If you live in an area with an Amish general store, you may be able to order a flour mill through the store. They will generally carry hand-crank mills, such as the Family Grain Mill, rather than electric models.

5. Buy a mill online through Pleasant Hill Grain or Grain Miller. Consider the highly rated Nutrimill if your family is large or your baking needs above average. This particular mill has a 20-cup flour capacity. Purchase a Kitchen Aid grain mill attachment on eBay if you already have a stand mixer and are looking for a budget mill. To switch between electrical power and hand cranking, or if you would like to prepare for loss of power, buy the Country Living Grain Mill hand mill with optional motor attachment, hopper cover, large auger for corn and more accessories.

Tags: grain mill, grain mills, flour mill, general store, Grain Mill

Obagi C Serum Information

Obagi-C serum is a vitamin C serum that protects your skin from free radicals, which are environmental pollutants that damage and age your skin. Vitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid, neutralizes these free radicals before they can damage your skin. Does this Spark an idea?

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Obagi-C serum is L-ascorbic acid, or vitamin C. Other ingredients include water, sodium ascorbate, sodium lauryl sulfate, fragrance, sorbitol, zinc chloride, calcium hydroxide, sodium hyaluronate, phenoxyethanol and sodium bisulfite.

Function

Obagi-C serum contains L-ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, which is a powerful antitoxidant. Antitoxidants neutralize the effects of environmental free radicals, or harmful molecules, on the skin. Free radicals can damage your skin and accelerate the aging process. According to the Obagi-C manufacturer's website, by applying a vitamin C-based serum like Obagi-C to your face, neck and chest at least once a day, you can protect your skin from the damage caused by these free radicals. Obagi-C serum can help prevent wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.

Types

Obagi-C Serum comes in four different concentrations. The 20 percent version is for people who want the highest amount of L-ascorbic acid in the serum. The 15 percent concentration is for all skin types. The 10 percent version is for dry or sensitive skin, and the 5 percent concentration is designed to be used in the eye area.

Benefits

According to the manufacturer's website, Obagi-C serum helps your skin maintain its brightness by ensuring that your skin maintains normal cellular renewal. The serum also helps reduce inflammation, builds collagen within your skin and can help prevent future wrinkles. In addition to these properties, the website states that Obagi-C serum helps maintain a comfortable moisture balance within your skin. Even if you have sensitive skin, you can obtain the benefits provided by Obagi-C serum, as it is nonirritating.

Instructions

To use Obagi-C Serum, apply five to seven drops of the serum to your face, neck and chest in the morning before applying your sunscreen and makeup. Use your fingertips to apply the serum. You may experience a tingling sensation when you apply Obagi-C serum. This sensation will discontinue with frequent use.

Tags: your skin, Obagi-C serum, free radicals, L-ascorbic acid, damage your

What Foods Are Covered By North Carolina Food Stamps

North Carolina food stamps cover any food or food product meant to be consumed at home.

Food stamps are a federal benefit for people in need. Although food stamps are distributed through social service agencies in each state, the federal government funds the program and sets the rules about the types of food that can be purchased. North Carolina's food stamp program has the same rules about foods that are covered under the program as the other 49 states.

Fruits and Vegetables

As in other states, North Carolina's food stamps cover fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables. Participants in the program can also use their food stamps to purchase seeds to grow their own vegetables and fruits. .

Meat and Dairy Products

Food stamps cover meat, fish, poultry and dairy products such as milk, butter, eggs and cheese. However, food stamps do not cover the purchased of live animals that will be slaughtered for food.

Cookies and Snacks

Cookies, crackers, chips, popcorn, cake and ice cream are all considered food products, and are all covered by food stamps in North Carolina and the rest of the United States. Soda is also allowed, however there have been several proposals to add it to the list of products that cannot be purchased with food stamps.

Prepared Foods

The Food Stamp program limits the types of prepared foods that can be purchased with food stamps. Food stamps do not cover any prepared food that will be consumed on premises of the business that made it. Food stamps also cannot be used to purchase hot foods. They can, however, be used to pay for cold, take-out foods such as salads and cold sandwiches.

Nurtrional Supplements

In North Carolina and elsewhere, food stamps cover the purchased of nutritional supplements. Drinks such as Ensure and Boost that add nutrients and calories to a diet are covered, and weight-loss drinks with nutritional value can also be purchased with food stamps.

Products Not Covered by Food Stamps

Alcohol, tobacco, paper products, soaps and household supplies cannot be purchased with food stamps. Pet foods, medicines and gift fruit baskets that contain non-food items that make up more than half the cost of the basket are also not covered by food stamps.

Tags: North Carolina, stamps cover, food stamps, purchased with, purchased with food

Blanch And Freeze Fresh Corn On The Cob

Fresh corn on cob

It is delicious to have fresh corn on the cob when it is peak season. You can also freeze fresh corn on the cob to enjoy in the off seasons of Fall and Winter. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Shuck and wash fresh corn on the cob to prepare for blanching. Break in half if smaller corn on the cobs are desired.

2. Bring water to a full boil in a large pot over high heat. Carefully put the prepared corn on the cob in the pot of boiling water to blanch it. Boil for 3 minutes.

3. Use the tongs to take the blanched corn on the cob out of the boiling water and place into a freezer bag or plastic freezer container.

4. Lay the blanched corn on the cobs in the freezer bag or container so that they do not touch. This will make it easier to take out the desired number of corn on the cobs after they are frozen. Before you place the bags or plastic freezer containers in the freezer, make sure they are cool.

5. In those off seasons, you can go right to your own freezer and pick your corn on the cob. Take the number of desired corn on the cobs out of freezer bag or plastic container and carefully put in a pot of boiling water to cook for about 7 to 9 minutes until tender.

6. Butter and enjoy corn on the cob any time of the year. You may use spray butter to keep the calorie intake to be only from the corn on the cob itself.

Tags: corn cobs, boiling water, fresh corn, blanched corn, cobs freezer, corn boiling, corn boiling water

Use Raw Sugar

Raw sugar is nutritionally equivalent to white sugar.

The "raw sugar" sold in the United States is actually evaporated cane sugar that has been processed to remove impurities. Unprocessed raw sugar contains impurities and cannot be legally sold. Raw sugar is not healthier than white or "refined" sugar; its brown hue is from molasses, which also gives brown sugar its color. No types of sugar contain vitamins, minerals or fiber. However, if you prefer the taste or texture of raw sugar, sometimes called turbinado sugar, you can use it instead of other types of sugar. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Add raw sugar to coffee or hot tea instead of white sugar. Add about the same amount of sugar for an equivalent sweetness.

2. Substitute raw sugar for light or dark brown sugar while baking, using a 1 to 1 ratio. For example, use 3/4 cup raw sugar in a recipe that calls for 3/4 cup brown sugar.

3. Sprinkle raw sugar on other foods, such as cereal or grapefruit, in the same proportions that you would use white sugar.

4. Top baked goods, such as cookies, with a light dusting of raw sugar for an unusual texture.

Tags: brown sugar, white sugar, types sugar

Make Potting Soil With Topsoil

Making potting soil is easy.

Nutrient-rich soil is one of the most basic needs of every plant. This is especially true for potted plants, because they cannot draw nutrients from surrounding areas, but are restricted only to what is in the pot. That is why potted plants require potting soil rather than topsoil. Potting soil contains extra organic matter and much-needed nutrients. Although potting soil is readily available at many stores, you can make your own using topsoil as one of the ingredients. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Preparing the Topsoil

1. Locate an area of the yard that has rich, fertile topsoil. Topsoil generally extends 8 inches from the ground's surface. When looking for soil, avoid sandy areas, and instead, look in shady areas where organic matter decomposes faster. The soil should be dark and moist and not have weeds or grass growing in it.

2. Insert a shovel into the ground and dig up enough topsoil to fill a shallow disposable baking pan. You can use any size pan but a good option is one that is approximately 18 inches long by 12 inches wide by 1 1/4 inches deep. Leave approximately 1/2 inch to 1 inch of space at the top of the pan to prevent the topsoil from spilling out.

3. Preheat an oven to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and insert it into the oven. Cooking the topsoil sterilizes it by killing mold spores and bacteria that can infect the potted plant.

4. Allow the topsoil to cook for 10 minutes, and remove the foil. Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the topsoil to ensure that the temperature has reached 180 degrees. If necessary, replace the foil and allow the topsoil to cook for an additional five to 10 minutes.

5. Remove the pan from the oven using potholders and allow to cool.

Mixing the Potting Soil

6. Place equal parts of sterilized topsoil and peat moss into a 5-gallon bucket. Mix the material thoroughly with a garden spade to combine.

7. Add three parts of sand to the mixture and mix it in with the garden spade. Use sharp sand that is pre-sterilized and purchased at a garden center. Do not use builder's sand, as this is not sterilized.

8. Place the mixture into plant pots and insert plants.

Tags: garden spade, organic matter, potted plants, Potting Soil, topsoil cook, with garden

Homemade Treatments For Wrinkles

Use a nightly skin care regimen to diminish the signs of aging.

Turn the signs of aging around with simple anti-aging eye packs, night creams and facials you can whip up at home. Use natural, organic products like coconut oil, shea butter and cucumber to defend against premature aging. Homemade treatments for wrinkles can be whipped up in the comfort of your own kitchen with ingredients for purchase at your local organic grocers, food markets and herbal suppliers. Does this Spark an idea?

Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream

Shea butter is one of Africa's most sustainable natural resources. Naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F, this powerful butter can provide skin with collagen to assist in diminishing wrinkles and other signs of aging. Vitamin F contains essential fatty acids, and helps protect and revitalize damaged skin. Use as a nightly moisturizer. Cut a sliver of whole shea butter off a block, then gently massage it into your skin. Shea butter melts at body temperature, for a smooth, silky wrinkle-fighting moisturizer.

Anti-Aging Eye Pack

Reduce the effects of wrinkles caused by tired, puffy eyes and brighten your skin with the water-based properties of vegetables. Cucumber or potato eye packs can soothe skin and reduce wrinkles. Create small cheesecloth packs to set on eyes, then lay back, relax and soothe away irritation. Cut two square pieces of cheese cloth and wet. Peel a cucumber or potato, and grate the vegetable onto the cloths. Tie them into bundles with string and place in the freezer for 10 minutes. Place on your eyelids for 15 minutes or as long as you like.

Tightening Facial

Whip up a tightening facial and reduce wrinkles with fresh peaches and egg whites. You will need one ripe peach, peeled and pitted, one egg white and a blender. Place the peach and egg white into the blender, and blend until smooth. Layer the mask onto your face with your fingertips and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with cool water and let your face air dry; this will prevent disturbing the skin's mantle, ensuring your skin soaks in all of the benefits.

Facial for Mature Skin

Fight existing wrinkles on mature skin and help restore your own natural beauty, vitality and brightness with vitamins and minerals. You will need 2 tsp. of plain yogurt, 1/2 tsp. of organic honey, 1/2 tsp. of fresh, squeezed lemon juice, five drops of coconut essential oil and two capsules of vitamin E. Combine the yogurt, honey, lemon juice and coconut oil in a bowl. Pierce the vitamin E capsules, fold the liquid vitamin E into the bowl and mix. Layer onto your face with your fingertips, and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water and let air dry.

Tags: signs aging, your face, your skin, cool water, face with, face with your

Types Of Internal Controls In A Grocery Store

The effectiveness of a grocery store's internal controls is subject to the human element.

Several general principles may guide a grocery store's implementation of internal controls to provide reasonable assurance of the safekeeping of assets and the reliability of accounting records. These include establishment of responsibility; segregation of duties; physical, mechanical and electronic controls; and independent internal verification. Whichever internal controls a store chooses to use, the controls should operate within an overall framework of information and communication, monitoring, risk assessment and a control environment where managers influence and encourage integrity.

Preventive Controls

Internal controls may be classified according to their purpose and function. Preventive controls, such as requiring two signatures on checks over $1,000, can help avoid errors and irregularities from taking place. Grocery stores might implement loss prevention protocols such as mandating employee attendance at seminars on ethical behavior in the workplace.

Detective Controls

Another type of internal control, detective controls alert businesses when irregularities occur. An obvious example of this is an airport metal detector. Depending on the type of grocery store, some stores may be large enough and carry a wide array of merchandise as to warrant the use of detection systems.

Corrective Controls

Corrective controls seek to punitively and remedially handle instances of an irregularity, whether it be in the form of anger management courses or discharging the offender from a position. In the latter case, the corrective control may also serve as a preventive control for other employees.

General Controls

Large or small retail enterprises can have large amounts of sensitive accounting information stored on their computer systems; this should be subject to information processing controls. This might involve overhaul of significant portions of or the entire system, from the backing up of files and removal of software to installing anti-virus software.

Application Controls

Within certain software application packages themselves are controls that prohibit certain actions. For instance, in accounting packages such as QuickBooks or Peachtree, users are not allowed to make journal entries where debits and credits are not equal.

Tags: grocery store, internal controls

Make Red Wine From Fresh Grapes

People spend lifetimes perfecting the science of making wine. Here is an overview of the basic steps involved. Equipment and materials needed for this procedure can be rented or bought at a winemaking supply shop. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Before Fermentation

1. Crush grapes into primary fermentor. Fill fermentor only 2/3 full.

2. Remove up to 80 percent of stems.

3. Add sulfite crystals to fermentor. Use about .1 gram of sulfite powder per liter or 1 campden tablet per 10 liters. Dissolve into 1 cup of warm water and stir into fermentor using a wooden or plastic spoon.

4. After adding sulfite, let the crushed grapes, or "must," sit for 2 hours.

5. Check Brix (a measure of sugar content) of juice. It should be around 22 to 24 degrees, depending on varietal. (See "Monitor Brix of Fermenting Wine Must" in related eHows.)

6. If Brix is lower than 21 degrees, add sugar to juice.

7. Check and adjust acid level of juice, using an acid-testing kit found at a winemaking shop. Acid content should be about 5.5 to 6.5 g/liter.

8. Check temperature of must and adjust if necessary. Temperature should be 70 to 75 degrees F (21 to 23 degrees C). Raise temperature by placing a heating pad underneath the fermentor or applying a heating belt. One way to lower temperature is to place a heavy object into a large freezer bag. Add ice to the bag, tie the bag securely and lower into the fermentor. Monitor the temperature for changes and remove the heating or cooling element when the proper temperature has been reached.

9. When the proper Brix, acid level, and temperature are reached, dissolve 1 gram yeast pellets in 1 cup of warm water for every 3.8 liters of must. Let yeast solution sit for 10 minutes, then add to fermentor.

10. Cover fermentor with cheesecloth.

Fermentation

11. Check after 24 hours. Bubbles and gurgling noises indicate fermentation is taking place. As fermentation takes place, the temperature will rise, which is acceptable.

12. Stir twice daily to keep the "cap" wet. The cap is the top layer of seeds and grape skins.

13. Check Brix daily. There should be an average drop of about 2 degrees in Brix.

14. When the cap stops pushing up to the top or when Brix is around 0 degrees, press the wine into gallon jugs and attach a fermentation lock. Save the cap material (pulp) to top up after initial racking.

15. When sediment drops out, rack and top up with pulp. Add sulfite. (See "Rack Wine" in related eHows.)

16. Add fining material right after racking, or later, when wine is clear. (See "Add Fining Material to Wine" in related eHows.)

17.After sediment drops out, rack and add sulfite crystals. Continue racking as necessary when sediment drops out.

18. Depending on varietal, age for appropriate amount of time.

19. Bottle. (See "Bottle Wine" for details.)

20. Depending on varietal, bottle age for the appropriate amount of time.

Tags: related eHows, sediment drops, acid level, amount time, appropriate amount, appropriate amount time, around degrees

Roast Wheat Berries

The healthiest grains come right off the plant.

Whole grains as a part of a balanced diet support heart health and digestion and supply the body with protein nutrients and carbohydrate energy, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Wheat berries in particular are a complete source of nutrition in their unrefined state, providing fiber in their outer shell along with the protein-rich germ and energy filled endosperm. Cooking a whole grain often eliminates a portion of its nutritional value by softening the outer shell and reducing the density of protein and carbohydrate contents. Dry roasting, however, does limited damage to the molecular contents while softening the berry just enough to be edible. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Heat a dry frying pan. The best pan will be one that distributes heat evenly across the surface. An iron skillet or a lined copper frying pan that doesn't cool down immediately is best, but any quality pan will be fine. Give the pan time to reach a significant cooking temperature, without starting to smoke.

2. Place 2 to 3 tbsp. of wheat berries onto the pan in a thin layer and cover quickly. Shake the pan gently as you would for popcorn.

3. Listen to the berries as they bounce and pop on the pan surface. Continue to shake the pan gently until the popping stops.

4. Transfer the roasted wheat berries immediately to a bowl to avoid burning them. Repeat the process until you have roasted the quantity of berries needed for your recipe.

Tags: outer shell

Make Homemade Dog Food Using Chicken & Fat

Making homemade dog food is a healthy alternative to commercially prepared dog food and the best way to guarantee a safe and healthy diet for your pet. Dog food made at home from ingredients that you trust will eliminate the fear of chemical contamination and dog food recalls from commercially prepared varieties. Additionally, making homemade dog food for your dog will eliminate the daily toxification of your pet through commercially prepared dog food laden with chemicals and potentially unsavory ingredients.

Instructions

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

3. Mix ingredients thoroughly. Mixing by hand works well.

4. Press mixture into baking dish.

5. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes.

6. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

7. Cut into desired servings. Dog food may be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen up to three months.

Tags: commercially prepared, baking dish, commercially prepared food, homemade food, prepared food, will eliminate

Boil Pig Feet

The sight of pig feet -- cooked or uncooked -- is repulsive to some people and the thought of eating pig feet makes them nauseous. People in many countries around the world including Europe and the United States grow up eating pig feet as a part of their culture. The culture was developed as a result of not wasting any part of the animal because food was scarce. Pig feet are prepared by pickling, barbecuing or jellying. Pig feet are used in soups, beans and stews, and have a rich flavor that makes a delicious gravy and seasoning. Boiling is the basic method of cooking pig feet. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Wash 8 pig feet thoroughly under clear running water; place in a large pot.

2. Place the pot on the stove over medium heat and pour in 2 qt. water and 2 cups vinegar. Keep the liquid level 2 to 3 inches above the pig feet, or add more water.

3. Add two large chopped onions and green bell peppers, ¼ cup crushed red pepper, 3 tbsp. salt and 1 tbsp. coarse ground black pepper.

4. Bring the pig feet to a boil, reduce the heat and cover the pot. Skim the top of the water to remove the white foam build-up every hour, and stir the pig feet.

5. Simmer for 3 to 4 hours or until the meat is tender enough to fall from the bone.

Tags: eating feet

Ecotourism In Texas

Big Bend National Park is a popular ecotourism destination.

Ecotourism is an increasingly popular type of travel that helps responsibly preserve and promote fragile ecosystems. The World Tourism Organization says ecotourism is the fastest growing form of tourism, with an annual growth rate of about five percent.

Economic impact

Ecotourism has a $5.4 billion economic impact on the state of Texas, according to the 2001 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation. That amount does not include visits to beaches, hiking trips or opportunities to view scenery. However, the Texas Department of Agriculture said the amount was closer to $10.4 billion.

Ecotourism opportunities

There are many opportunities for ecotourists in Texas, including photo safaris and tours, numerous caverns and an international butterfly park. Sustainable hunting also is an important part of the Texas ecotourism scene. Some animals that may be hunted with the proper licensing are alligators, axis deer and wild hogs.

Hiking and scenery

Many Texas cities are located on the Gulf Coast and offer opportunities to explore beaches and to fish. There also are a number of hiking options, including Big Bend National Park, which offers more than 150 miles of trails.

Tags: Bend National, Bend National Park, National Park

Fancy Ways To Display Fudge For A Sale

Send fudge home in fancy boxes.

Whatever you are selling, you want to unload as much of your product as possible. With food items, like fudge, you should display the fudge pieces or bars so that customers can't miss them and can't resist them. Creativity, color and flourish will draw in customers and make your sale a success. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Use Multiple Levels

Using risers or different leveled platforms or serving trays will give a sale table a dynamic look and draw customers over. Put a fresh, clean tablecloth on your display table, then place risers, cake stands or multi-layered appetizer stands cleverly around the entire table. Make stands go in a snaking pattern, put tall risers in the back of the table and shorter ones in the front or alternate short and tall risers or stands. Bring extra tablecloths and surround risers with linens to give your table a banquet look.

Servers

Employ servers, friends or yourself to work the sale by handing out small, free pieces of fudge displayed on a silver platter or modern white ceramic tray. Make sure whoever is serving the fudge is well dressed in all black, in black pants and a white shirt or a dress that is appropriate for the event. To keep fingers off the fudge, place each piece in a white paper candy cup.

Cookie Cutters

Use cookie cutters to make your pieces of fudge into fancy shapes like flowers, birds, hearts or fish. Wrap fudge in multiple colors of plastic wrap and even draw details on the plastic wrap with marker if you wish. Display your fudge in a whimsical way by making bouquets of flowers or a large school of fish. Enhance your theme with the real thing by putting fresh flowers on your table, using a bird-themed tablecloth or decorating with paper hearts.

Sophisticated Packaging

Show your customers the beautiful packages they will be receiving by displaying fancy boxes suitable for taking fudge home in. Purchase customized cupcake holders in different colors or have see-through windows in the boxes. Tie a silver ribbon around each box. In larger boxes with see-through lids, put individually wrapped fudge bars in different colored plastic wrap for an exciting-looking package.

Tags: plastic wrap, draw customers, fancy boxes, fudge home, make your, pieces fudge, tall risers

Cook Premade Crab Cakes

Serve premade crab cakes as a gourmet party appetizer.

Premade crab cakes can taste just as good as their homemade counterparts when prepared correctly. Save time by buying frozen or fresh premade crab cakes from a grocery store or seafood deli counter. You don't have to thaw frozen crab cakes prior to preparing them. Serve the tasty shellfish treats as appetizers during elegant dinner parties, holiday get-togethers or any other special event. As a tasty lunch or light dinner, place the cooked crab cakes atop a fresh garden salad. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Thaw the crab cakes in a refrigerator for three to four hours before preparing them for a faster cooking time. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Spray a nonstick baking sheet with a thin layer of cooking spray.

3. Brush the tops of each frozen or thawed crab cake with 1 tsp. of olive oil or melted butter. Arrange the cakes on the baking sheet, allowing a 1-inch space between each one.

4. Bake frozen crab cakes for 40 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Bake thawed crab cakes for approximately 20 minutes. Serve the cooked crab cakes immediately.

Tags: crab cakes, baking sheet, cooked crab, cooked crab cakes, crab cakes, frozen crab, frozen crab cakes