Thursday, December 15, 2011

Fight Depression with Life Style Choices

Fight Depression with Life Style Choices
 A few years back my sister was diagnosed with cancer and after along battle died.  In the middle of her battle I became very depressed and decided my life style was contributing to my depression.  My usually demanding outside sales job became my prison.  I could and often did stay in my Pajamas all day doing my necessary calls.  Showering , getting dressed and eating came in second to Bejewel.  I functioned on a must basis.  Finally, I quit my job which was worse because I had no incentive to do anything and my family could use my income having grown fond of food and living indoors. 

I decided to find a job close to home that forced me to be positive.   A job that demanded I get out of bed and leave the house.  I had waited tables off and on so I went to restaurants and got a sever job that let me work the hours I wanted.  I wanted to work when my family was out.  Some time alone was good  but not too much.    The atmosphere and  the people are positive and make me feel positive too.  This was a very good change and I am there still.  I don’t make a lot of money but I can’t put a price on sanity.

The second thing I did was to exercise regularly.  I feel a tightening of the screws when I go to long without strenuous exercise.  It, for me, works.  I plan my day around exercise.  Waking up and putting on my exercise clothes and planning when I will start and finish is part of my day.  I have tapes, machines and a gym membership.  I plan fun activities around exercise too. 

I also plan time to just be quiet.  Call it meditation what ever makes you feel good.  Sometimes I am over stimulated and can’t concentrate.  I turn off everything and just listen to my own thoughts.  Yeah, scary.  I keep a pad handy and write down things that race through my mind.  I maybe the 10 minute trip to work or an hour or more but I have quiet.

I tried medication.  My doctor asked questions and prescribed some expensive pills which made me crazy.  The price made me crazy no the pills.  After pricing was worked out I went generic and for a few months that made me feel better than just blaw.  I am anything if not blaw. So I stopped taking the meds.  I also stopped having crying jags out of the blue.  This did not work for me but if you feel out of control talk to a professional and medication might be just what you need. 

It is not easy to share this problem.  But because I am dealing with it I feel  sharing might be the next step to healing.  I like my life, adore my family and one day soon I’ll step back into life at full tilt.  For now I’ll be waiting tables where smiles are easy to come by and my work mates are amusing and carefree.  Simple Mat
 

Simple mat is just that simple.  If I can do I think anybody can.  I am finding that taking mortar out of the equation has made arrangement of the tiles and tile cutting the hard part.  I had a paper template of my wall to help me lay out the tile and decide on cuts.  I used a small tile cutter from Harbor Freight to cut my tiles.  The cutter was awesome for the first four tiles and than I had issues.  I took a break and set the Simple mats on the wall.  Very easy.  Because I have everything laid out it was simple.  I would use Simplemat again in a heart beat. 
Simple Mat
 

Simple mat is just that simple.  If I can do I think anybody can.  I am finding that taking mortar out of the equation has made arrangement of the tiles and tile cutting the hard part.  I had a paper template of my wall to help me lay out the tile and decide on cuts.  I used a small tile cutter from Harbor Freight to cut my tiles.  The cutter was awesome for the first four tiles and than I had issues.  I took a break and set the Simple mats on the wall.  Very easy.  Because I have everything laid out it was simple.  I would use Simplemat again in a heart beat. 
Simple Mat
 

Simple mat is just that simple.  If I can do I think anybody can.  I am finding that taking mortar out of the equation has made arrangement of the tiles and tile cutting the hard part.  I had a paper template of my wall to help me lay out the tile and decide on cuts.  I used a small tile cutter from Harbor Freight to cut my tiles.  The cutter was awesome for the first four tiles and than I had issues.  I took a break and set the Simple mats on the wall.  Very easy.  Because I have everything laid out it was simple.  I would use Simplemat again in a heart beat. 
Simple Mat
 

Simple mat is just that simple.  If I can do I think anybody can.  I am finding that taking mortar out of the equation has made arrangement of the tiles and tile cutting the hard part.  I had a paper template of my wall to help me lay out the tile and decide on cuts.  I used a small tile cutter from Harbor Freight to cut my tiles.  The cutter was awesome for the first four tiles and than I had issues.  I took a break and set the Simple mats on the wall.  Very easy.  Because I have everything laid out it was simple.  I would use Simplemat again in a heart beat. 
Simple Mat
 

Simple mat is just that simple.  If I can do I think anybody can.  I am finding that taking mortar out of the equation has made arrangement of the tiles and tile cutting the hard part.  I had a paper template of my wall to help me lay out the tile and decide on cuts.  I used a small tile cutter from Harbor Freight to cut my tiles.  The cutter was awesome for the first four tiles and than I had issues.  I took a break and set the Simple mats on the wall.  Very easy.  Because I have everything laid out it was simple.  I would use Simplemat again in a heart beat.A few years back my sister was diagnosed with cancer and after along battle died.  In the middle of her battle I became very depressed and decided my life style was contributing to my depression.  My usually demanding outside sales job became my prison.  I could and often did stay in my Pajamas all day doing my necessary calls.  Showering , getting dressed and eating came in second to Bejewel.  I functioned on a must basis.  Finally, I quit my job which was worse because I had no incentive to do anything and my family could use my income having grown fond of food and living indoors.  
Environment
I decided to find a job close to home that forced me to be positive.   A job that demanded I get out of bed and leave the house.  I had waited tables off and on so I went to restaurants and got a sever job that let me work the hours I wanted.  I wanted to work when my family was out.  Some time alone was good  but not too much.    The atmosphere and  the people are positive and make me feel positive too.  This was a very good change and I am there still.  I don’t make a lot of money but I can’t put a price on sanity.
Exercise
The second thing I did was to exercise regularly.  I feel a tightening of the screws when I go to long without strenuous exercise.  It, for me, works.  I plan my day around exercise.  Waking up and putting on my exercise clothes and planning when I will start and finish is part of my day.  I have tapes, machines and a gym membership.  I plan fun activities around exercise too.
Quiet
I also plan time to just be quiet.  Call it meditation what ever makes you feel good.  Sometimes I am over stimulated and can’t concentrate.  I turn off everything and just listen to my own thoughts.  Yeah, scary.  I keep a pad handy and write down things that race through my mind.  I maybe the 10 minute trip to work or an hour or more but I have quiet.
Medication
I tried medication.  My doctor asked questions and prescribed some expensive pills which made me crazy.  The price made me crazy no the pills.  After pricing was worked out I went generic and for a few months that made me feel better than just blaw.  I am anything if not blaw. So I stopped taking the meds.  I also stopped having crying jags out of the blue.  This did not work for me but if you feel out of control talk to a professional and medication might be just what you need.
Sharing
It is not easy to share this problem.  But because I am dealing with it I feel  sharing might be the next step to healing.  I like my life, adore my family and one day soon I’ll step back into life at full tilt.  For now I’ll be waiting tables where smiles are easy to come by and my work mates are amusing and carefree. 

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Simplemat Simple


Simple Mat

Simplemat is just that simple.  If I can do I think anybody can.  I am finding that taking mortar out of the equation has made arrangement of the tiles and tile cutting the hard part.  I had a paper template of my wall to help me lay out the tile and decide on cuts.  I used a small tile cutter from Harbor Freight to cut my tiles.  The cutter was awesome for the first four tiles and than I had issues.  I took a break and set the Simple mats on the wall.  Very easy.  Because I have everything laid out it was simple.  I would use Simplemat again in a heart beat.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Four Techniques for Bulk Shopping

My biggest savings comes from purchasing groceries for up to 20 days at a time. To make this work I use some easy techniques.
  1. I bag ingredients together for meals. No one is allowed to remove food from a bag so when I go to make my special pasta dish I still have the special cheese.
  2.  I take advantage of bulk purchases, especially in meat. I buy large portions and separate for two or more meals. This is super important especially if your family does not eat leftovers.
  3. I also have a hiding spot for popular snacks. I bring them out as needed.
  4. Further you must have a good ration of fresh to canned, frozen etc. I will shop at specialty shops next week for milk, fruit and fresh fish.
Save time, money and your health by shopping smarter and for longer.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Two for One Blankets to Pillows

Space Savers
 
vintage blankets rolled into pillows and secured 
In the long winter months we lounge more often. I keep vintage blankets folded and wrapped on the sofa. When the blankets are folded they make great pillows and look neat. When we have guest or just want to get warm one can quickly unwrap a pillow and get cozy.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Orange Chicken for Four







Chicken tenders  $6
Orange ginger sauce  $2
Rice $1
*Fresh Veggies ( your choice: carrots & onions; broccoli, green beans; mixed veggies {frozen or can})
$2-4

Cook rice
Place tenders in oven
Cook veggies
Combine veggies tenders and add orange ginger sauce

Serve over rice.  Enjoy!

$2.5 per serving sounds great to me.



Soup optional

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Save, time, money and get healthy with one secret

Shop for two weeks you can shop for two weeks or more worth of meals you will save money and time. You will save time at the store, your diet will be better because you will plan healthy meals and you will save money by not going to a restaurant instead of eating at home. 


Plan a menu for two weeks The most important thing is to know what your family eats. What they really eat. You will plug these things into a list. You will create an eating map. If you work late every Thursday or the kids roll in at different times because of sports after school commitments plan for it. Don’t plan to get a bag of burgers on the way home. Plan microwave burritos with a great big salad, tuna sandwiches with can soup. You get the idea simple but healthy like meals planned around your crock-pot. Sitting down for a few minutes and making a genuine list and taking the time to shop this list will save on many levels.

Shop the list Shopping the list means don’t buy things not on the list. I usually leave one day open to fill in with a surprise item I discover at the store. I plan to buy six snacks what snacks are open but I only buy six. With my clan I usually take a few snacks and hide them so everything is not gone in the first three days. I also plan on items to carry over.


Examples
  • Buy fresh OJ and concentrate juice for second week
  • Fresh veggies first week canned or frozen for the next
  • Fish days I plan later in shopping cycle because we buy and eat the same day on that day you can buy milk and some fruit to last until your next big shopping day.
Keep staples on hand and Buy in Bulk
Staples vary from home to home but there are some items no home should be with out. When creating your list shop your cabinets first to avoid over purchasing. Also this will guide you to create a meal for fresh food you have on hand.

I would include toiletries here like Soaps, Shampoos, Laundry soaps, cleaners. All these items should be bought in bulk or as needed to keep them in stock. Without grocery shopping I can usually prepare a meal from staples alone. The list below is comprehensive you will want to pare it down for your specific needs.
Increase your Skills The other thing I would suggest you have is a really good cook book. I have several and I do use the internet to quick reference how to cook specific foods. However, to get ideas for meals I love to flip through my books. My favorite book is broken down into food types so I can look at how to prepare carrots or just veggies. Another way to improve your list is to prepare your list from the recipes or get a new subscription. Food should be tasty, healthy and cooking should be a pleasure.

Be creative there should be a mix of fresh healthy meals, home cooked fast food and so easy a child could do it. Your schedule may dictate lots of fast easy meals at times. You can pack a weekend with great meals when  friends are in town. Try it and see if your waistline and your wallet don’t thank you.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Knowing your child’s friends will strengthen your relationship



Know their friends
You should know all your child’s good friends. Have them to dinner ask question and get to know their value system. Get numbers and addresses if needed. Let them know they call contact you too. Changes happen quickly ask specific question, be informed.



Ask for their help

Tell friends what you expect from your child and enlist their help to achieve results. I love to hear my son’s best friend say, “Clean your room or we’ll never get outta here.” His friends push him to keep up with home work too. They know the rules: bad grades and incomplete chores means he has no fun.

Give your child the benefit of the doubt

Choosing good friends is a skill you can nurture in your child. However, give your child the benefit of doubt about who he chooses but be involved with. If you have doubt, without proof, ask your child to tell you if the friend is ok. Explain that as friends values change he/she may need to discontinue or limit friendships. Give you child the opportunity to make good choices.

Good friends will ask for your guidance

If you’ve laid the ground work his friends may tell you when there is trouble. Recently I had a friend of my son’s tell me to “watch out for another child”. This child does not have much support so I give extra when he’s in the picture. It maybe hard but you can give advice without being judgmental. Leave the door open for question and support.

In Conclusion

Keep communication open. Be prepared to ask for and give help. Your child is the best judge of his friends. Talk and ask question and listen with an open mind. Your child will be glad you did. 

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Crafty Mom

Round Crochet Pillow


I’ve made this cool round pillow. Yes is is made with recycled bed sheets and t-shirt fabric. I made an inner lining from cotton muslin. It is soft and sturdy at the same time. Love it!

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

How to entertain Ghouls this Halloween

How to entertain Ghouls this Halloween.
Since we plan on trick or treating I start with a devilishly healthy meal. I make an extra large pot of witch soup which can be served with your choice of sandwiches. Guacamole dip and chips, olives and bowls of fresh fruit complete the meal.

If you have squeamish guest remind them, ghost, goblins, trolls and witches are out on Halloween night. Having a bowl of witch soup wards off evil sprits throughout the year. This may insure every child will have at least one portion of veggies on this night.

Traditional Split Pea Soup

  • Bag of split peas
  • Water or chicken broth
  • Fatback
  • Cup each carrots, celery
  • Lemon juice

If you choose this method I suggest you cook an extra large ham a week or so before the Halloween and use that to season the stock. Yummy. Clean, wash and cook the peas over low heat for about thirty minutes in water/chicken stock. Add ham to this mix ASAP with celery and carrots. Simmer and serve with bread, sandwiches or sausages.

Vegetarian split pea soup

  • Bag of split peas
  • Water/ veggie broth
  • Pepper, onions, carrots, celery
  • Thyme leaf
  • lemon



Clean and wash the peas cook over low heat with stock, adding veggies. You can also add potatoes to thicken the mix and make it hardier. Salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with garlic bread or bell pepper quesadillas with goat cheese.

It’s the perfect time of year to get your kids to eat something green and yucky looking. Your job is to make it taste so good they ask for it next year. Do what ya gotta do to fight off those witches goblins and ghouls.


Extra
Quick fun for older kids. Create a dark scary corner. In a small space place black garbage bags covering wall to ceiling. Replace the light with a black light. Instant spooky corner. Ours is in the hall way going to the bath room. It’s a great place to take pictures. A group shoot here is a blast. The Flash reveals all!

Live large.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Three steps to a fun family Day

Experiences Make Lasting Memories

A bonding experience with your family does not have to be expensive or elaborate. However, I do believe they should happen regularly. As children get older activities get harder to plan. Carve out a time that works for everyone and set it in stone. Nobody gets a pass. I also believe this should be a family only time. Be creative a few hours stolen here and there add up.

Plan an activity that everybody likes or no one has done before. A family hike, a walk in the park, tossing the football could be some examples. Game night, monopoly, cards, life or get mom on a video game you might besurprised. My family loves playing charades. It does not matter as long as everybody is involved.

Food is always a good way to keep things interesting. Let every one help cook a simple meal. You could put together something simple that does not keep one person locked to the stove. I like one pot dishes, roasted store bought chicken with sides is also a good choice. Take out. Food is not the star the family interaction takes center stage on this night.

So set a time, choose an activity and make some memories.

My Last Family Night

With three boys I usually start fun days with food. This time I picked up a few kayaking voucher on Living Social so I thought a picnic would be perfect. The picnic was mostly prepared foods except the sandwiches.

Because my hubby works most weekends we gathered after school and headed to Town Lake Rowing Center. This venue is close so we did not waste time getting to the fun. We rowed for about an hour pulled into a picture perfect inlet and ate our dinner. We laughed and looked at a hawk, teased and had a great time. It was a windy afternoon not perfect for rowing and we apologize the team we cut off in the lanes but we won‘t forget it. And we found another fun family activity we will do again.

Picnic
Tuna sandwiches
Chips
Strawberries
Baby carrots
Water/soda
Small cooler
Freezer bags

Sunday, October 16, 2011

You can help feed the world

Take back the food agenda from multi National Corporations who only think about profit. We can feed the world, reduce pollution, and have plenty left over. How? Vote with you pocket books and don’t allow your elected representative to choose reelection and money over health and welfare. The largest situation to stop now is the use of food as energy. Corn use to feed the world, now it feeds the commodity markets and cars. Tell your congressman to stop subsidies for any food products that don‘t feed the people of the world. Ethanol could be made with a number of non food products. Let’s push from both sides and help change the tide. Talk to your government and take dollars away from companies who use corn as energy. Call the gas companies and congressman now.
I am proud to be taking part in Blog Action Day OCT 16 2011 www.blogactionday.org

Monday, October 10, 2011

Three steps to Healthy Kids


This question was posted at Circle of Moms:

8 Year Old Over Weight, Help!
My son is 8 years old and he is getting fat and I don´t know what the best to do. Sport, change the food, no candys...What can I do?
Thanks.
Make every choice a healthy one. Foods should be healthy. I give my kids the parameters to pick their own cereal. Less than 10 grams of sugar high protien and low calories; they make the choice with the guidelines. Bowls of fruit and raw veggies are between meal snacks. Be active. Take your child on hikes, bike rides swimming, and tennis. Video and TV are rewards we only have on the weekends. You may need to start with one change and add. But if you eat better and move more your child will benefit.

http://dbadart.blogspot.com/

Monday, October 3, 2011

The Coolest Toilet Ever!

Industrial Country Market: Columbus Texas

The best stop  on 71  is the greenest general store; the entire vibe is precious for a girl who loves hardware stores and solar power.  It's about 80 miles outside of Austin, Texas on 71 the Industrial Country Market.We were greeted the moment we entered the store and made to feel right at home. The shelves are filled with the practical and creative enterprises’ for the DIYer and those who love interesting things for the home and garden.

If you need to go you need to stop here for the super cool composting toilets. They are beautiful, practical and well you have to go to know. I’ll give you a little peek and you stop at 1799 HWY 71 in Columbus, Texas.
You can’t miss the solar panels and the signs. Check out the not so general store and use the compost toilets nestled in the water fountains and art.
You’ll be glad you did.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chketHAJSjI

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Daring Rescue

Daring Turtle Rescue

A turtle crossing a four lane road in Austin, Texas was rescued by a man in Honda Accord. I was turning left from Manchaca to Davis when I notice something  large in inside south bound lane crossing Manchaca, a Turtle.   I paniced in the left turn lane next to the turtle.  Suddenly  a dark colored Accord, going south,  stopped and a tall, bald man stopped in front of the turtle.   He  picked up the turtle and  ran across three lanes, moving north,  to deposited the turtle on the other side of the road. I stayed in the left turn lane waving to on coming traffic hoping no one would rear end the good Samaritan's car. Two cars swung by hooking not knowing of this daring rescue.    I’m glad I witnessed it. Thank you, and I’m sure the turtle thanks you too.

A real hero does  the right thing even when no one is looking.

stock photo Bob Moul May 4

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Plan A Family Day

How to plan a Family Day

Like most families sometimes all our circles are moving in different directions. I decided to insist on time to reconnect regularly. I have two teenagers and a husband with a crazy schedule so I planned the day around dad. In the morning I made a family favorite dish that required a dose of cheese and heating up to be table ready. We lingered over dinner laughing and talking over how things were and any changes. The days have been loooong and hot so we took advantage of the cooler afternoon with a walk. I chose an area close to home and not too busy. We actually had the trails to our selves. I got to hold hands and ask serious questions. Through the long walk Mom and Dad got a little alone time with each boy and we connected as a family. I feel like our batteries were recharged and we are in sync again. I little undivided attention is all we needed.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Does DIY Laundry Soap Work?

Week Three: DIY Laundry Soap; Does it work?

I used a dry method to make laundry soap with borax, washing soda and a bar of Ivory soap. I like not having a huge bucket around the house so this appealed to me. The soap is easier to handle because it is concentrated. I washed several stained work shirts. I know lots of us have made the soap so I wanted to show how well the powder cleaned my clothes.

I found the powder left behind a fresh, clean smell. It took out some fresh stains but not the old ones but neither did my commercial soap. Washing my work shirts with bleach was much better. Colored and whites are clean and have a great smell with no artificial odors. I give the natural laundry soap a big thumbs up.

Ingredients:
Arm &; Hammer Washing Soda $3.54
20 Mule Team Borax $3.54
Bar of Ivory Soap $?

Mix one cup of each and a grated bar of soap. Wash with 3 tablespoons and bleach if needed.

Natural Whitening
Vinegar
Lemon juice
Sun drying

Sunday, September 11, 2011

What not to do if some one breaks a bone.

House Park Broken Bones

Well, we got the call yesterday at about 5:30. My son broke his arm at House Skate Park. Another mom there with her younger kids brought him Brackenridge. I can not thank her enough; I was there a long 25, 30 minutes later. The break was bad; his wrist bones were crossed one almost coming out of the skin. The Doctor who usually handles these cases grimaced, "That is ugly.” True to heart my boy asked about his board before he got on the ambulance to move from Brackenridge to Dell Children’s Hospital so I hope this is the least of injuries to come. The staff at both hospitals were supeior making the best of a bad situation.

I learned a few things from this tragedy. First, I could not have stopped it. I can try to insure his safety by getting a promise that he will never skate alone. Second, I will find him the coolest helmet; but I can’t make him wear it. Finally, if someone is injured do not give them food or drink. This might be nice but if they need to go into surgery it can be very dangerous. Any food or drink can come up into the lungs while the patient is under anesthesia. And always grab a sweater on the way to the hospital.


Love you all. No skating for at least 6-8 weeks

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Week Two Recycled Dish Towels

Recycled Dish Towels


I make batches of fun dish towels from fabric scraps. I used old clothes to clean up around my house for years. I would leave old t-shirts under the counter to clean up spills but I still used sponges to clean the dishes. I make dish towels that are easy to make and are great replacement for sponges. Look here for easy instructions to make your own

Della Badart

Texas is Buring

Good Bless Texas Families dealing with these awful fires. Let us all be there to support them in this time of stress. Please let the weather conditions change and pray for our hard working firemen.

Sunday, September 4, 2011

One Step to more money, time & better health

I like to share recycling ideas; I am pretty extreme.  I hope by seeing some of my habits people can pick a few they can live with to make a better world.

Shopping List saves money, gas and time

I create my shopping list from the items  on hand and recipes for two weeks of meals. This way I rarely have wasted food and I save time and money. I buy all the ingredients to prepare dishes and I post my grocery list/menu on the fridge so my family can pull out a dinner without wrecking another meal.

I also carry this main list to the farmers market so I bring home what I need to complete meals not something that will rot. I will shop for perishables milk, fruit and on those trips I’ll pick up fresh fish or seafood.

This means less trip to the store, more planed healthy meals. It doesn't just save money it's good for you too. 

I suggest you plug in your family standards.  For example we eat pizza every Friday.  Two days done.  I have a few simple meals my kids and husband can make on hand. This helps if I am late, busy or tired.  Also, balance fresh with frozen, pickled or canned.  I hvae a few meals I can make double spagehtti sauce  to use with our version of sloppy joes.  I just pop the extra sauce in the freezer.  The key is planning. 
Real Simple has an awesome Take Back Dinner Challenge that is usper helpful.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

The secret to dealing with a teenager

Good School Day

I just had a pleasant morning getting my teenager off to school. Taking myself out of the equation was the answer. I set the alarm for 7:30 as I went to drop his brother. On returning I knocked, said good morning, asked if he’d like me to make him some breakfast and gave consequences for not being ready on time. In this case I would keep his skateboard for one day over the weekend. I made breakfast and every 15 minutes I shouted out time left. Before deadline he was ready to go. Love it!

No threats, cursing, throwing or whinning.  Oh yea, all that bad behavior was mine.  Left a bad taste in my mouth.  Mostly my teenage did what he wanted laughed at my freaking out and we usually rushed to school. No cool conversation just nagging.  YUK.  Specific request, more specific consequences and  matter of fact points.  Why didn't someone tell me it could be this easy!

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Recycling at Home

Over the next year I will be sharing home recycling ideas every week. On My Arts site
http://badartworld.blogspot.com I will share my pre-cycle and recycle arts and crafts projects.
I am continually creating and I am recycling obsessed. While I don’t expect most people to adopt all my practices for recycling and pre-cycling I hope one can read to lift ideas to fit their lifestyle. These sites are complementary because they help me with work, family and life in general. In all aspects, no matter how small my part is I am always concerned with creating a better world. If we all do just a little we could accomplish a lot.

One step parental advice

If you have a child of any age you need to check out Circle of Moms. I just read the best article there dealing with smart mouth teens. The article was right on target with wonderful advice. The site allows moms to ask question and give advice. It gives perspective on many topics and the valuable experience of others. It also helps moms connect in the real world. Circle is a good resouce for any mom or dad.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Last Day of Summer Fun

Deep Eddy Austin, Texas  Ausgust 21, 2011


We spent the day at Deep Eddie a popular watering hole in Austin, Texas. I had a great day with my boys. One fished off the pier most of the day in a mad competition of catch and release with a friend. I swam with my youngest son. We went for a walk and got to see an awesome game of Kayak Polo. That was an exciting high energy competition. My youngest a runner, avid swimmer and biker thought he'd love to try it. A cool Dad walked us through the rules and I know we'll be back to catch a game if not jump in a kayak. Well, tired we’re ready as we’ll ever be for the first day of school. Here’s to school. God Bless you all and I wish everyone a great year.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Skating and the San Marcos Library

I just love San Marcos Library. It is a open building with lots of comfy chairs and wonderful displays. I spent my time with magazines I like to look at but don’t purchase. The smaller branches in Austin don’t have as many subscriptions as they once did. I took a group of boys to the skate board park that shares the same parking lot as the library. The boys had a great skate session and enjoyed an empty park for an hour before the locals showed up. The park is larger than Austin’s Mabel Davis and has lots of street features. I will take the boys to this skate park again knowing I can enjoy this jewel of library.

http://www.ci.san-marcos.tx.us/departments/library/index.html

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Recycle Hockey Jersey Baskets



Recently I was given a bundle of hockey jerseys that had been used to make quilts. Chris Wenz, of Over the Top Quilting Studio, apologized for the mess. I’m sure she was thinking what will she do with that. I spent the summer cutting a large bag jerseys into yarn. The rough, polyester fabrics turned out to be perfect for baskets. The colors are bright and bold while and the fabric is thick and durable.

All the handmade crochet rag rugs and baskets are projects of love. I like unusable fabric with no life. When fabrics are cut into strips the colors and textures change and have a new depth. The baskets show how even the must unexpected material can have a second life.

Barton Creek Farmers Market




I like to supplement my shopping at the local Farmer’s Market. I go with a pocket full of small bill and my shopping bag. I picked up okra, egg plant, natural cleaners and breakfast on a recent trip. Further, it’s a great place to find unique gifts. Bird feeders, by Dan Baker, caught my attention for birthday gifts. You can see Dan’s work on face book. Barton Creek has a tiny but extra special petting zoo too. Bunnies and chicks were my favs. Well, I’ll see you are the market.

Monday, August 1, 2011

What I needed

This song is just what I needed this morning. It's a very cool take on a Cars tune Check it out.
badart

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Cheap Levis?




My two boys are either growing out of or ripping the knees out of their jeans so I began to supplement them by shopping online. I have a collection of jeans at my eBay shop I hope might help you too. I add sizes and styles often sign up for the newsletter to get up dates. I live in Levis in the winter so I tend to lean toward them in my shop. I’ll have more winter styles soon.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Library

When the temperature hits 105 the library is a hot place to be. Yesterday we went to the library a usual trip for my family. It was full of activity. There were kids yelping as usual but the young men 18 to 25 sitting along side families were awesome. There were way more Dads than usual and just a great buzz. Almost every chair was taken and my favorite spot, sitting in front of a section on the floor was the seat of choice. There is always an up side so if our heat spell popularizes the library as a place to be seen than bravo.

At a time when local government is cutting back we need to be sure we keep our most important assets strong.

Monday, July 25, 2011

Apathy

Apathy

America is in a crazy dance where our political system is broken. I believe it is broken due to voter apathy. Most registered voters are too busy even if interested they don’t read, listen and know all the options available. What has happened is the extremes run the party. These people have a vested interest in the out comes because it affects their pocket books or values. These extremist make a lot of noise or work clandestinely. Because they make a lot of noise or have power they control the debate that trickles down to the majority. The majority is you and I; the busy people who assume we have elected reasonable people to make good and decent decision to run our country. Obviously we were wrong.

The problem with the majorities rational thought is we have been negligent in our attention; we have failed the system. 40.9 percent of registered voters voted in the last election. The extremist run the system and this has gotten America in to this ridiculous situation. Rational people can do not make up their minds about a situation before all options are available. Anyone so ridged that they have made up their minds before the debate has started is childish and ignorant. I am pointing my fingers in every direction. I have no dog in this fight. The Democrats, Republicans and especially the Tea Party followers are wrong. The Majorities have blindly given up to special interest, hooligans and extremist on all sides.

All sides are at fault. When it comes to the debt all parties need to sacrifice. Elected officials who can THINK and make decisions with out throwing out ridged ultimatums should be encouraged. Those who have lined themselves up with extreme few points with out considering the American People should not be reelected. I am asking you to call or write the most extreme politicians and tell them what you think. Tell them to consider what is best for our country not their reelection. And those who can THINK and Deliver without holding the other side hostage will win along with the American people.

Watch one less silly video on line or skip a rerun on the tub. Let’s take back the system from the extremist who think all or nothing. 40.0 percent voted to make this majority in the house; therefore less than half of reasonable people stood up to be counted. We, the majority, don’t have to march on Washington but we do have to do something. Write or call NOW and VOTE in the next election. Register and take the time to find logical people without grand allegiances to party, corporate power or their own power grab and let’s put them in office. Let’s take the system away from the folks who make the most noise. They are the minority. Get out of the shadows and be heard. It is not too late.



http://www.answers.com/topic/list-of-tea-party-politicians

http://www.house.gov/

http://www.senate.gov/

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Austin with No Air Conditioner

Austin is fabulous however with no AC it is miserable. My air conditioner motor blew out on the 4th of July! Yea! I’m so blessed to have only had two nights without air. I can not even imagine living before air conditioning. And Victorian dress may have been lovely if you live in a cooler climate but there are precious few months Texas women would be fresh in all that material. Well, if I did not have fans I would not have gotten the few hours of sleep I managed. Today I wake up refreshed and God Bless Air Conditioning! I’ll fall in love with Austin all over again.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Farmer's Market Jewels




The best part of having a plan and a budget for grocery shopping is specialty shopping. That includes stores focused on organic, bulk shopping centers and farmer’s markets. A recent trip to he Austin Farmer’s Market in Sunset Valley I bought some mushrooms, peaches and had a great breakfast. I did enjoy the beautiful jewelry of Found Fusion and a silk screen artist Racecar. I love the energy and the fresh organic foods at the market.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Day 6

I have officially broken the fast today. I had a brown rice, shrimp, romaine and fresh tomato salad. I made shrimp tacos for the family and I could not say no! I am weak and it was delicious. I did great at work and I will continue to fast through the days until I reach my goal weight. That is 11 pounds and counting

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Day Four & Five

Coffee, one cup and water with lemon. I had spicy V8 later and more water with lemon. I made cabbage, onion soup seasoned with fresh spices, bouillon and sea salt. The soup is really nice and I can see changes. My skin has small break outs. I am active in spurs, doing static exercises and stretches.

Day five back a work I had coffee and water with lemon. Before work I had a large cup of broth. I had a water at work and felt wonderful late in the day I had a V8. I am most active at work but slow down my breath and do mini meditation when working on simple task.

I’m enjoying large broth now. I had a cool herbal mint, strawberry mix of teas with honey and lemon. Yummy. I could not resist a cup of cherries.
One thing I know, after this fast I will think about what I put in my body.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Technically, I am no longer on the Seneca Fast

Day Three

Yes, I keep breaking the rules with one cup of coffee to start the day. I woke op feeling great and watered down a pot of split pea soup and drank lots of water. I drank a large cup of the soup and decided to stick with the fast for the third day. Feeling good kept my spirit up and I still have nothing on my schedule. So, I drank soup, tea and water. Late in the day I had a small apple and later box of raisin. Ooops. I had spicy V8 at dinner time and I watered down some mashed potatoes and had a cup later in the night.

Technically, I am no longer on the Seneca Fast. Fruit on the first day really did help me move into the fast. I will use this as a transition to every fast. My longest fast was ten days. I am not trying to set a record however I would like to keep it up as long as I feel good. I have had a long standing weight issue and this maybe the best way I know how to handle it. I don’t have a problem maintaining my weight but I have been stuck at a certain point for too a long time!

Friday, June 10, 2011

Day Two: Seneca Indian Cleansing Diet

OK, before bed I ate the other half of my melon and drank some water. However, I slept well, and woke up feeling great. I drank a cup of coffee. I know, and two glasses of water. My stomach cramped a little but I had lots of energy and went to the park early to enjoy the cool morning. In Austin the days are often 100 degrees easy so a cool75 degree is golden. I had a walk in a butterfly garden, doodled and look at my goals for the weekend.

After more water and another cup of tea I went to work. I wait tables at a local restaurant. No hunger all and I had my usual glass of water with lemon mid-day. I had a lot of energy too. Coming home I was a bit grouchy but a glass of tea fixed me up. I am drinking an herbal mint with a teaspoon of honey.

Went shopping and was feeling OK but not great. Home finally at 7:30 I put on the kettle and did a meditation and a light stretch. I’ve just completed my tea and plan to relax and watch a movie. I’m sure I’ll have more water and tea before bed.

Tomorrow I will have vegetables. I can’t wait to eat a tomato from my garden! See you tomorrow.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Seneca Indian Cleansing Diet

I am on day one of Seneca Indian Cleansing Diet and I feel pretty good. I just had half a wonderful honeydew melon. I had a banana, too, sorry. I also had blackberries, cherry tomatoes, apples and oranges. I am drinking lots of water and I look forward to the teas I have for tomorrow.

I was at work all day and ate the tomatoes there because I forgot my fruit supply. When I returned home and ate the berries I was immediately rejuvenated. I had the fruit afterward and the melon for dinner?

Water is a big help. I have lots of fruit and I made a quick dinner for the family and ate my melon with them I have other fruits to eat if I get hungry before bed. I did my fifteen day shopping this morning and bought my supplies for this diet.

I check back in tomorrow. When I will be drinking teas all day. Nothing else.

Click on the title to get more opinions of this diet.

day two



Della

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Grocery Shopping

My biggest time saver is grocery shopping with a purpose; I do my major shopping only twice a month. I plan 15 dinners and have food for breakfast, lunch and snacks. It is a monumental task with two boys and a hungry husband. Planning makes it work.

Staples

There are certain ingredients no kitchen should be without; most of the essential items can be bought in bulk. Staples include non-perishables like rice, couscous, salt, pepper, some spices, pastas and toiletries. Buy in bulk, replenish as needed and try to buy on sale.

Junk Food

I attempt to choose healthy options with the least amount of processed food as possible. Cooking from scratch helps. That being said if you have a few precious items and staples you will never want for a good meal. My 12 and 14-year-old boys have been able to make several meals for years. Starting simple and having a good cookbook will increase anyone’s skills over time. I leave the fruit all over the house like flowers. Since it is one of the only quick meals it is eaten. I buy frozen foods because my children enjoy corndogs and fish sticks and the like. It also gives them a chance to cook meals from start to finish with confidence.

Second, shop the perimeter. My local store has toiletries on one end and produce at the other with dairy, and meat in between. Having a list helps. If you make your time on the inside isles of the grocery limited you will eat better and save money.

Balance between fresh and canned, frozen or dried. In addition, some things we prefer to buy fresh, fish, shrimp should be purchased after fresh goods are eaten. Use fresh foods first. Antipasto, tuna, canned goods are great supplements. Try freezing your fresh veggies. With the right balance you can have tasty meals for two weeks.


Impulse Buys

Make your list for healthy meals, have budget, and stick to it. Allow discretionary funds to purchase milk, fruits and other perishables the second week. You can also buy soymilk, which keeps so you don’t have to return for two weeks. Allow three impulse buys and no more, if you must.


Have fun and enjoy your meals. Be sure to build in quick easy meals when time or energy is limited. Take your time and talk to each other, say grace or be thankful. Spend some time sharing your day with the people you love. Make dinner time a no TV, phone, games so you are not distracted from your meal.

Della Badart

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

holidays are for boys

The older my children get the more I must orchestrate time for them together. We spent Sunday hanging out at the lake on just such a day. They like most boys are getting along well unless they are killing each other. They are as different as two boys can be while they are boys, brothers, and a lot alike.

My boys are 12 and 14 and have always been good playmates. The older they get the more their differences stand out. I like to take them to a neutral spot like the lake to force them to engage. I like this spot because it has a beautiful cliff overlooking the water. There are benches on the cliff where I can sit and observe without interfering. I want them to have freedom but I want to keep an eye on them.

We did bring my older boy’s friend but with the younger boys approval. There was a moment where the 12 year old felt he did not fit in however the friend asked him to join in the fun. I did set the guide lines in the car that everyone should be good to everyone else and have fun. I smiled from my perch as I watched them splash, jump and swim all day long. When we drug ourselves home all the boys were happy, burnt and tired.

I love holidays. Thanks to all the veterans who made this day possible. Whether my boys end up soldiers one day or enjoy the freedoms soldiers give us I know I want my young men to be friends for life!

Sunday, May 22, 2011

No More Plastic Straws

We need to exchange bad habits for good to really change the world. If you guiltily reach for straws I found an excellent replacement. They are beautiful, so, no reason to hide them and it has to be easier to clean than plastic reuseable straws, yuk. Well, Heather Melling, a mechanical engineer in Massachusetts, created stainless steel straws. They are elegant and could be lots of fun. I'm not going to beat you over the head with reasons not to use plastic. But, come on, pcb's, petroleum by products yada, yada. I like practical ways to make change. So, get some cool stainless steel straws for yourself or a friend.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Healthy Snack?



My families new favorite yummy item. I make Jiffy Brand muffins with a kick. I add oatmeal, nuts and double the eggs and mil. The batter is placed in greased muffin tins and cooks at Jiffy's temp. They are full of flavor and easy. In less than 20 minutes you can have this on the table. I like them because of the extra fiber, oatmeal and they are cheap. I try not to buy packaged processed cookies. I know this is processed but with a little extra time I at least have fresh and less processed ingredients.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

First Tomatoes

I made the perfect salad with our first tomatoes. I used the tomatoes sliced, swisschard, strawberries, walnuts and blue cheese. I tossed the tomatoes in a vinegar and olive oil with a a few sprigs of basil and placed them over the Chard. I like to place a variety of taste to make a winning salad. Can't wait for the next batch of tomatoes!



Friday, May 13, 2011

Gardening

Our garden is looking pretty good though we got a late start. My Swiss chard is still generating and it is in it's second summer. Austin went through a long freeze and it is still beautiful. I have my first two heirloom tomatoes. I bought the tomato plants at the Austin Downtown Farmers Market, Cherokee Purple Heirlooms. I will pickup some fresh mozzarella cheese and make a small salad with the chard. A garden takes a little time but I went for items we use most often, tomatoes and salad. My husband is handling strawberries, peppers and herbs.

If you'd like to start a garden there are many sites to help. I recommend starting small maybe container garden. Large pots can do wonders and in Austin you could look on Freecycle for pots, seeds and even tools. There are also companies that will put in the garden and all you have to do is water and pick the veggies. City of Austin is a good place to start for resources.


http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AustinFreecycle/


Thursday, May 12, 2011

Rain Dance Worked!

Finally, it is raining I hope it is a long drenching. We need it. I hope this long Texas drought makes everyone understand how precious resources are. Austin is a growing progressive city and could make great changes. Instead of or along with the new treatment center we should utilize brown water at it's source. Sink water could be filtered and used to water grass and flush toilets in every home. Water rates could be higher representing water's true value. Mostly, the public needs to alter the perception of water and it's value. For more information about water in your area look to Clean Water Action.


http://www.cleanwateraction.org/feature/conserving-water-central-texas

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Where's my mommy!

My dog was hoping around what I thought was a snake in my yard this morning. Yikes! I went to peak and it was a baby bluejay. The baby bird was hoping around on the ground. I wanted to help him so I found this great web site and learned a little bit about wild life.
http://www.austinwildliferescue.org/
So I'll keep the dog out of the yard and keep an eye on the little guy. The Bird family was totally freaking out flying over head and making a ton of noise when I was checking out the area. I'm pretty sure he/she is safe as a bird on the ground can be. The wildlife web site is great and after a short and informative call I learned the best thing I can do is nothing. Awesome! Austin Wild Life Rescue runs on donation so if you care GIVE NOW.

Friday, April 15, 2011

Taxes

I completed and e-filed my taxes today. What a nerve wracking experience but I am glad it is all done. I was late getting things in this year but I was not worried because like every year I start preperation a year in advance. Here's what I do.

* Place a copy of returns in envelope with all pertinent information, w-2's, 1099's, reciepts everything. File in a safe place you will may need them next year or down the road.
* set up an envelope to capture this years receipts for next year.
* Print a copy of Business expenses to refresh your memory.
* Relax you have 12 months before you have to do it again.




Della Badart
Austin, Texas


http://www.badartworld.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Badart
http://www.redbubble.com/people/dbad/art

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Easter REnewal

Easter Is a time for change, renewal. I have had great epiphanies at this time of year. Basically, moving from anger and resentment to hope. Moving on, acceptance, that's what this time means to me.
My family is well into our garden and I have started a project with some small pots. I have cleaned them up and will paint them. I like to start where I am when doing a project. Like most of us I have a tremendous amount of resources at my disposal. I try to go shopping as a last resort. Lets see how my project turns out.

* What are you upset about, a lingering issue?
* Can you change it...Or do you need to accept it?
* Release old projects that no longer interest you or have lost importance.

* Start or finish what needs to be done.
* Break down goals into manageable chucks and eat 'em up.
* Make this spring be the one that changes your life for the better!

I have decided many things are good now and will only get better. I'm making small steady steps to compete and complete goals. It's all good!

Monday, April 11, 2011

How to Slow Down

I contribute my SLOW pace to living in Key West and the Netherlands. It made me particular about what took control of my day. There are several things I did to keep myself on island time after leaving the island.

* I live in a central location.
* Dinner is a priority, not only what we eat but how we eat.
* I work close to home with hours that leave time for my family.
* I don't want or need every new gadget or trend on the market.
* I meditate or am quiet: no radio, TV, computer, etc. for a time every day.
* I limit TV, computer, radio time.
* I react instantly only to my top priorities, Family being number one.

So if your a little stressed out maybe you can relax your schedule by prioritizing your life. Cut out energy drains like having to see a particular TV show, eating crappy food or stressing out because you don't have the newest or best whatever! Tonight turn off the TV and the phone and cook a simple meal and enjoy a great conversation with the people in the room. Meditate tomorrow about moving closer to work.

Della Badart
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Badart