Costco: the Real Deal?

After much debate, we recently decided to renew our Costco membership card.  The conundrum presented was if the membership cost was more than the savings, and if Costco truly offers the lowest prices.  This fascinating article does a superb job comparing and contrasting the cost of shopping at Costco versus the local superstore.  Not surprisingly, one grocery peddler does not best the other in every category--rather each store offers bargains on different products. 

Ergo, each household must consider their unique grocery needs before deciding to continue to be a card carrying Costco member. 

Price Check Experiment: Is Costco Really Worth it?





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Perspective

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Corn Worth Popping For

There are some ideas so clever, so incredible--yet so simple.  These little idea gems are rare, and when one stumbles upon them, they must be shared.  My recent discovery has me jumping for joy, plus enjoying a beloved treat.

We are all familiar with the white, fluffy, yummy-ness that is popcorn.  And like many of you, I was under the impression that popcorn had to be popped either in a hot air popcorn maker or in the microwave.  I have always chaffed a bit under this restriction--I don't want to purchase another small kitchen appliance, nor do I like the mess, smell, or noxious chemical flavors in microwaveable popcorn.  My alarm was raised when I read an article listing microwavable popcorn at number three on a list of seven foods you should never eat.  "Studies show that microwaving causes the chemicals [in the lining of the bag] to vaporize--and migrate into your popcorn".

This lead to a wonderful discover of an easy, inexpensive, and no mess way to pop popcorn in the microwave.  Not only is is super easy, it's crazy cheap!

Here's the big secret: microwave popcorn in a brown paper bag!  I was not convinced this was a great idea right away--I envisioned a small flaming bag of kernels, or a terrible corn kernel explosion in my kitchen.  However,  after successful brown bag microwave popcorn enjoyment, I am a believer!

To make microwave brown paper bag popcorn place 1/2 cup of corn kernels in a brown paper sack, fold three times to secure, and nuke for 3 minutes.  Stop the microwave when popping slows to 1 or 2 pops per second.  You can add butter, salt, or any sweet or savory seasoning you wish.  Plus, the paper bag is recyclable; no fowl chemical-coated bag to stink up the kitchen or add to the landfill.  

For more details, read this article.



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Feeling a bit SAD?

The official start of Winter is just days away, and that means most of us have experienced a string of dreary cold days--with many more to come.  This can make a warmth loving person a bit forlorn.  However, sometimes feelings of melancholy during the cold months are more severe and a person might be dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.  SAD is a type of depression that affects a person during the same season each year--typically in the cold winter months. 

Happily, there are simple and effective remedies for SAD.  Girl Friday Agency cheerfully offers some SAD busting tips:
-Get some morning sun--if possible go outside for some exercise and soak up some sunny rays.  If outdoor activity is not an option sit near a window.  Also, on sunny days open drapes and blinds to let light in.
-Get active--regular exercise is important.  Motivation during gloomy mood is hard, but just a bit of physical activity will help, plus it might lead to longer exercise session.
-Reach out--contact a friend or family member for a chat.  If feelings of depression are particularly intense, your physician will be able to recommend counseling or medication.
-Lightbox Therapy--exposure to substitute sunlight is an effective treatment for SAD.  Some believe the cause of SAD is a reduction of sun exposure due to the shorter days of cold months.  

For more Seasonal Affective Disorder information, please read this article.  
To purchase a Lightbox please review this list of options. 

Hoping you enjoy a pleasant and peppy Winter. 




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Be at Peace

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Here Come Houseguests! Ready?

If hosting houseguests is in your future, chances are you have some prep work to do in order to welcome them properly.  With the chaos of the Holidays, preparing to receive houseguest can seem overwhelming.  Fortunately, Girl Friday Agency has some terrific tips for houseguest readiness. 

The first step is a clean home.  Pay particular attention to cleaning the bathroom--place fresh linens out, and remove clutter from counters so your guests have room for their toiletries.

If you have a guestroom your guest will be utilizing clean sheets are a must.  Make space in the closet for guest to hang up their clothes, and gather some reading material and place it on the nightstand. 

In the kitchen, have breakfast items easily accessible; plus, having afternoon snacks convenient a bonus.

Create a simple and flexible itinerary of activities.  Having a plan will ward off boredom, and will ensure a more enjoyable and lively visit for you and your guests.   

Really want to impress?  For a luxury bed and breakfast ambiance, place an assortment of mini-bottles of lotion, shampoo, and conditioner in their room.  Have a cozy robe and slippers ready.  Additionally, bottled waters and a small basket of yummy sweets and chocolates in the guestroom adds a splendid flair.  Fresh flowers in a vase is a beautiful effect. 

Here is a practical checklist for houseguest preparations.

Hoping you relish your Holidays and the guests they bring.




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Wishing You a Most Happy and Healthy Holiday

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Look What's Sprouting

Visited a farmers market this weekend and saw hoards of brussels sprout stalks.  Seriously, there were mountains of cute, green, little balls of goodness lining the rows of the market.  I have to admit that while I appreciate the taste and aesthetics of bressels sprouts, I have zero idea of how to cook them.  Thus came the brussels sprout recipe hunt.  And the yield was as bounteous as this years brussels sprout crop. 

Dijon Braised Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels Sprout Salad
Steamed Brussels Sprouts

Hope you find a tasty way to enjoy this adorable Autumn vegetable.




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Opposing Procrastination

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The Happy Hostess

The holidays are in full swing--Santa has taken up his perch in the mall, neighborhoods are aglow in Christmas lights, and Nativity scenes dot the community.  Additionally, holiday party invitations are arriving.  Want to make yourself a favored guest?  Try making the scene with a gift for the hostess.  There are dozens of clever, inexpensive, and thoughtful gifts that will delight your hostess when she welcomes you at the door.   

Found a brilliant list of hostess gifts from Anthropologie.









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