1/30/13

Cooking with cast iron is an excellent choice because it is incredibly durable, naturally nonstick and free of any questionable chemicals, like PTFE and PFOA, found in many nonstick pans today. If you're in the market for a cast iron skillet, however, avoid the temptation to buy a pre-seasoned one. Pre-seasoned means the pan has been sprayed with a layer of fat at the factory. Since the source of the fat is not required to be on the label, the pans can cause reactions to those with certain allergies. Instead, look for raw iron pans and season them yourself using your own oils.

1/29/13

There may be snow on the ground, but now is a good time to start saving items you would normally discard to use in your spring garden. Save worn T-shirts and pantyhose and cut them into strips to tie plants to support stakes. Cardboard egg cartons can be filled with potting soil to start seedlings. When the plant is ready to move outside, simply tear the cup and place it in the ground -- cardboard and all! And used paint stirrers can be plant ID markers; just write the plant name on the stirrer with a permanent ink pen and stick it in the ground.

1/28/13

After experiencing so many recent natural disasters -- like hurricanes, floods and earthquakes -- many of us are creating emergency kits to prepare for when the worst strikes. When you're making them, don't forget your companion animals. The Humane Society of the United States recommends creating an emergency kit for your pets that includes food and water for at least five days; medications and medical records; garbage bags; litter boxes for feline friends; and current photos with descriptions of your pet in case you get separated. You can learn more at hsus.org.