Informative
Build New, Healthy Habits During National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month 0
By now, we all know that fruit and vegetables are the easiest way to eat healthily. But, between our hectic schedules and non-stop chores, eating the "rainbow" isn't always an option. The good news? We still have a shot at (nutritional) redemption as June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month(1). This month-long celebration is the perfect chance to make healthy eating a reality and not just a goal. So, if you want to get started on a healthier path, here are seven easy ways to make the most out of this year's National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month.
1. Revamp Your Fridge and Pantry
One of the coolest ways to celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month (and up your daily produce intake in the process) is to stock your fridge and pantry with the season's most popular superfoods.
Unfortunately, that means that you first have to identify and get rid of all the "danger-foods," which may take some time. But, once you do that, it's all smooth sailing. All you have to do is check what's in season, and fill your kitchen to your heart's content.
But, remember: "Out of sight, out of mind" bears great truth when it comes to eating (or not eating) fruit and vegetables. And that's because people are three times more likely to consume the foods they see first(2), which means where you put your food matters. So, make sure you place your produce in plain sight so that you're more apt to grab them when you're looking for a snack. Specifically:
- Move fruit and vegetables from the crisp drawer to the eye-level shelves,
- Set out a bowl full of fruits and veggies at an accessible spot in your kitchen, and
- Pre-cut your fruit and vegetables to have them ready in times of need.
Also, re-arrange your fridge and cupboards so that the healthy stuff lies at the front.
2. Get Cooking
There's a certain appeal to having a meal being delivered straight to your door, especially on those days when you have zero time to hit the grocery store and prep your ingredients. But, cooking at home is the only way to make sure you get your daily dose of fruit and veggies. So, to nail the whole "cooking-in" thing, just:
- find a bunch of accessible recipes that work for you;
- keep your pantry stocked with an assortment of meal-starters such as tomatoes, beans, and potatoes; or
- learn to cook what you're craving.
3. Hit the Farmer's Market
Besides being the National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month, June is also the month that marks the beginning of the farmer's market season. Produce stands pop up here and there, which means this is your chance to fill your reusable shopping tote with summer's most delicious produce, including apricots, grapes, and bell peppers.
But, having an array of fresh foods to choose from is just one of the perks of hitting the farmer's market. Research(3) also shows that shopping from a farmer's market makes people more excited about eating the fruit and veggies they buy. As a result, they tend to eat more produce in their daily life, improving their health little by little.
4. Start Your Own Garden
These days, more and more people are discovering the joys of food gardening. From fruit to veggies to herbs, modern-age horticulturists are playing with dirt, aspiring to grow their own food and make the world a more sustainable place. However, the biggest upside in all of this is -without a doubt - that green thumbs get to eat healthier all year long. In fact, according to a recent study, gardeners tend to eat more fruit and vegetables than non-gardeners, probably because they have access to them all year round.
So, if you're thinking of jumping on the food gardening bandwagon, there's no time like the present. Take advantage of the National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month and explore the variety of seasonal produce that June has to offer. Our only tip: Take some time to find out what each plant needs (water, sunlight, soil composition), and nature will take it from there. Soon, you'll get to enjoy a range of fresh foods straight from your backyard.
5. Experiment With New Produce
Another cool way to build healthy habits during National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month is to try out new plants. June, and summer in general, is known for its wide selection of in-season foods. So, make the most of it by exploring a new crop every week. Cantaloupes, honeydews, okras... the list is practically endless. If you have a family, you can get them in on the action by taking turns and having a member choose a new flavor each time.
You can even try your fresh fruit and veggies in all shapes and forms by prepping them in a different way every time. So, don't hesitate to roast them, blend them into smoothies, or even grill them. You can also pair them with seemingly unsuited foods like watermelon with Feta cheese. Who knows? Maybe you'll come across a flavor combo that strikes up your fancy more than you believed it would.
6. Brown-Bag It
Work lunches aren't always conducive to healthy eating. But, come this June, you can turn the tables at work by giving your desk a makeover. Just swap out the candy and "calorie bombs" that lie around with fresh fruits and get your colleagues in on the act by offering them veggie-laden lunches that are too hard to resist. With a little planning, you can even prep a different produce-based meal for each day of the week, and avoid getting stuck into a rut.
7. Educate Yourself
If you're serious about changing your produce-to-junk-food ratio, there are also thousands of free resources that can help you make the most out of each plant that crosses your path. From learning how to use every part of it (and minimize food waste) to figuring out how they affect your health, you can educate yourself on pretty much anything nutrition-related. There are also apps, like Local Harvest, that could help you find the nearest farmer's markets.
How will you take advantage of National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month? Let us know in the comments below!
References:
Eat What You Want Day 0
May 11 is the National Eat What You Want Day. Although we eat food every day, this day is unique because you can eat whatever you want.
In the current era, people are obsessed with diets and meal plans. You probably spend time stressing over what you can or cannot eat. To make it worse, the magazines splash images of perfectly toned models that can make you feel inadequate.
There are several food fads that come and go. But on May 11, everyone can relax and forget about their diet goals just this once in a year. You can try something new or indulge in the craving that you've been putting off.
History of Eat What You Want Day
Eat What You Want Day was initiated by Thomas and Ruth Roy. The intention was to help people break away from the overwhelming diet plans, and diet trends, for just one day.1 They have created about 90 fun holidays that are registered officially under the Wellcat Holidays.2
Giving yourself a break often is good for you. Signing up for low calories diet fads can potentially make you overeat when you switch back to your normal diet patterns
Why Should You Celebrate Eat What You Want Day?
Have a break from the usual
This day is a perfect break from the norm of keeping up with strict diet plans and allows you to eat just this once. It is totally okay to check on your diet, no dispute. After all, not everyone has a naturally fast metabolism. It also gives you a chance to flip your routine and put away the structure. You can scrape off your meal plan just this once and be spontaneous.
Have the freedom to choose
Eat What You Want Day is a perfect chance to have the freedom to indulge in your cravings without feeling guilty about it. It provides an opportunity to help you hold on your regimen longer since you'll have a chance to soothe your cravings then get back on track.
Be kind to yourself
By indulging in your craving without any guilt, you show kindness to yourself. It gives you the assurance that you can keep with the diet all year long, but just this once you satisfy your inner self of whatever it yearns for. It will teach you to be kind to yourself.
How to Celebrate Eat What You Want Day
It's easy to celebrate this holiday since you can eat whatever you want. You can stop counting the calories and eat some ice-cream, pizza, or fries. Since everyone is different, you get to choose whatever will make you happy and quell your cravings that have been bothering you.
However, it's not only junk foods that qualify in the eat what you what day checklist. You can spoil yourself to an expensive meal that you would not buy every day. Like treating yourself to a five-course meal at a restaurant. Call your favorite restaurant and order. Make sure to get your favorite bottle of wine as well. You deserve it.
Considering the current situation in the world, you can also consider recreating your favorite childhood meal, this time with the help of your children and spouse as you stay at home. Get the recipe from your mom or grandma. The critical thing is to indulge in something that you enjoy whatever food that you choose to celebrate this one day.
What People Eat On Eat What You Want Day
You have your own choices, but what are people eating? The top food that most Americans would eat daily if they did not have to worry about the consequences is pizza. The other top foods include pasta, burgers, ice cream, tacos or burritos, chocolate, and French fries - in that order. The others are French fries, cakes, cookies, cheese and donuts.3
How To Make Eat What You Want Day Fun
There are several ways to make Eat What You Want Day fun?
First, you can switch things up and eat what you'd eat for diner at breakfast and have breakfast for dinner. You can eat some pancakes sprinkled with maple syrup and bacon and a smoothie. It's up to you.
Second, you can allow your children to be in charge of meals this day to make it fun for them. Let them decide what will be for dinner this day so that they can also have their own food fantasy come to fruition. You may be surprised to get a delicious treat that you wouldn't think of yourself.
Third, you can break your regular food routine. Ditch the lunchbox and go for lunch with your colleagues. Change your typical routine and enjoy the day.
Lastly, celebrate Eat What You Want Day by ordering or preparing your favorite food that you cannot eat regularly because you're sticking to a diet. Make sure to make it a family affair, especially now that you’re in isolation, and you can't meet with friends.
Life is short to not to have a break from a strict diet this once. Give in to your sweet tooth because no one should give you a side-eye or tell you what you shouldn't eat on Eat What You Want Day. It is definitely perfect escape from the counting calories and suppressing the cravings.
References
Holiday Travel Tips To Make It Fun And Get Rid Of The Stress 0
The holidays are coming and for a lot of us that means traveling to go see our families. It could be on a plane or across town. Either way, we've got tips that will help you be safe, enjoy yourself, and de-stress the whole thing so you can relax.
Home And Family Crafts: 5 Best Ways To Celebrate The National Craft Month 0
Did you know that students who participate in a project in arts and crafts are four times more likely to be high performers in academics? Crafting is fun for children, whether it’s making fluffy pompoms, paintings, or decorations. Home and family crafts are an excellent outlet for stress and allow daily inspiration for both children and adults, plus it is a lot of fun. Who said you couldn’t do all the fun stuff just because you are no longer a child?
March is the National Craft Month. It provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to join ideas together and come up with creative pieces. Craft enthusiasts get together and participate in home and family crafts such as coloring, painting, sewing, and knitting. Artists hold content and give special promotions. Whether you want to try a new hobby or learn a new skill, there are various ways to celebrate the craft month.
History of the National Craft Month
In 1994, the Craft and Hobby Association set up the craft month to help people to rediscover the joy and benefits of crafting.2 The month is all about discovering new home and family crafts and finding or rediscovering hobbies.
How to celebrate National Craft Month
Learn a new hobby
During this month, artisans and crafters work together to create inspiring art projects. It is an excellent opportunity for you to start a new hobby or share with your family and friends on what you have been working on and introduce your child to crafting.
There is a wide range of home and family crafts to choose from paints, wood, metals, paper, and wood; whatever inspires you, choose to bring your craft idea into reality this month. Learning a new craft will help you to express your creativity and provides stress relief from the usual pressures of life.
Moreover, you feel more confident when you learn a new skill. You can also enroll your child in a school that teaches craft. It is an excellent way for your child to learn new skills and shape them up for the future.
Craft in a group
Can you paint it? Can you sew? Making home and family crafts in a group is a great social event. You can involve your coworkers and friends to create projects that you have interest in and items for charity purposes, like making blankets for premature babies or painting to give children admitted to the hospital. Whatever charity you decide to support, your efforts are valuable, and it will be fulfilling.
Spend time with your children and make some art
Get your children off TV and game consoles and allow them to learn home and family crafts that will shape their future. Join them to make cards or paint and nurture that skill. Allow them to explore their inner artistic nature. Enroll your child to art school if they have a particular interest in arts and crafts, or if you want them to learn a hobby.
Make cards and gifts to your friends and family and explore the inner artist in you. Handmade cards may not be perfect, but it is the thought that counts. Make yours to share what you made on social media with #nationalcraftmonth so that your followers can take a look at your creativity.
Attend local craft events
In case you cannot make any home and family crafts, visit the nearest local craft centers and support the local artists by buying jewelry, scrapbooks, decoration cards, and knitwear. Check for local craft events and festivals and meet people with similar interests in crafts.
Explore nature
You can go to the beach and collect shells which you can paint in different colors. You can use pine cones and leaves to create art. Go outdoors and take photos. Photography is also a form of art that allows you to capture the present moment and appreciate the environment around you. Go in a group because it is more exciting.
Grab your paintbrush or scissors and get crafting this National Craft Month. It is time to learn a new home and family craft skill. Whether you’re an amateur or professional, let out the creativity in you. Don’t forget to share your projects with others and use #nationalcraftmonth and #motherearthproducts on social media. Happy crafting.
References
Everything You Need to Know about Johnny Appleseed Day 0
Johnny Appleseed Day is an opportunity to honor the man who passionately introduced apple trees across many parts of the country.1 He was also a missionary and among the first American conservationists.2
While other people celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day on September 26, on his birthday, others celebrate it on March 11, which coincides with the prime planting season for apples.1 Either way, it is important to commemorate the works of the man who made apple trees bloom all over the nation. His works should never go unnoticed.
Where was Johnny Appleseed born?
Johnny Appleseed was born John Chapman on September 26, 1774, in Leominster, Massachusetts. He had two siblings, including his brother who died at infancy.2 When his mother died when he was two years old, his father moved to Springfield, Massachusetts, with him and his sister.1
Johnny started propagating apple seeds in Pennsylvania and moved steadily to West Virginia, Ohio, and Indiana. He moved further to Illinois and Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin. He planted orchards, and he would occasionally visit to take care of them.2
He would also teach people on the teachings of Swedish theologian, Emmanuel Swedenborg. He planted the apple seeds free, along with the lessons.3 He would sell the orchards once they developed, and used the proceeds to buy books written by Emmanuel Swedenborg, which he would give people for free.1
He mostly traveled by foot, often shoeless, and always wore brimmed pasteboard to keep the sun away from his eyes. Other times, he traveled by horse or canoe. He walked for miles every day and slept outdoors. True to his name, he always carried a bag with apple seeds. He was widely known for his kindness that people consistently showed up when he came calling.1
One admirable thing to note about his love for tending to apple trees, he would travel many miles to nurture an ailing orchard when he was learned of its poor condition. Bringing such trees back to health was his chief endeavor. 2 Known for his strict stand on treating animals with kindness, including mosquitoes and rattlesnakes in line with the Swedenborgian doctrine that insisted that a life of religion is to do good to both people and animals.3 He always shared his wisdom, care, and kindness to people. Many people believe that John Chapman died on March 18 at the age of 70 years.
How to commemorate Johnny Appleseed Day
There are various landmarks over the country to honor Johnny Appleseed. In his hometown Springfield, Massachusetts, there is a park named after him. In Pennsylvania, people claim his first tree nursery is in Mansfield, and there is his monument in South Park.2 Consider visiting a landmark for Johnny Appleseed near you. Share the stories about him with others, and don’t forget to post #johnnyappleseed and #motherearthproducts on social media.
Although the day is not a popular holiday, people who celebrate it do by planting apple trees or savoring apples or apple products. Savor a delicious apple and share it with your family and friends. Here are three apple recipes you can try out to commemorate the Johnny Appleseed Day.
1. Baked apples4
This dessert is perfect when you need a quick last-minute dessert fix. It is delicious and budget-friendly. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
- 4 apples
- 5 tablespoon granola
- ½ tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon soft brown sugar
- ½ orange zest and juice
- 1 ½ butter
- Vanilla ice cream to serve
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400° F.
- Mix the granola, the sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and juice.
- Heat oven to 350°-400° F. Mix the granola, the sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest and juice. Core apples and put them on a baking tray. Spoon the granola mixture into the hole, spooning over any juice left. Top each one with tablespoon of butter and bake for 30 minutes until soft and sticky. Serve with a scoop of crème fraîche or ice cream.
2. Spinach Apple salad5
Ingredients
- 1 apple
- 1 pear
- Your favorite dressing
- ½ cup walnuts or pecans
- 3 cups spinach
- 3 cups mixed greens
Method
- Make glazed walnuts or pecans by coating them with pure maple syrup. Simmer the nuts and maple syrup for 6 to 8 minutes in a non-stick skillet. Stir constantly to avoid it getting burned. Then remove from the heat. Place them in a parchment paper and let them cool at room temperature.
- Prepare your favorite salad dressing. You can prepare it in advance and keep it refrigerated, but keep it in room temperature right before serving.
- Remove the core from pear and apple. Then, cut them into thin slices.
- Place the mixed greens and spinach on serving plates then top with the apples, pears, and walnuts. Pour the dressing. You can add machego cheese when you serve.
3. Apple Salad6
This apple salad is delicious and refreshing with the tart from lemon and pop of the marshmallows. Your family will thank you for it. Toast the nuts before adding for a crunchy feel.
Ingredients
- ½ inch cubed apples
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Method
Toss apples and lemon juice in a large bowl. Add celery and marshmallow, and stir in mayonnaise. Cover and refrigerate until ready for serving. Stir in the pecans before you serve.
Happy Johnny Appleseed Day from us at Mother Earth Products. Do try out these recipes with our freeze dried products and share your feedback in the comments section below.
References
- https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-johnny-appleseed-day-september-26/
- http://www.holidayscalendar.com/event/johnny-appleseed-day/
- https://www.britannica.com/story/was-johnny-appleseed-a-real-person
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/granola-baked-apples
- https://www.acouplecooks.com/spinach-pear-and-apple-pecan-salad/
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/delicious-apple-salad/
6 Fun Things to Do With Your Kids on President's Day 0
Let's be honest: When people think of February, they immediately conjure up images of Valentine's Day desserts and homemade soups. But, honestly, these are just a few of the perks as the leap month is also "host" to a very special celebration: President's Day.
The annual holiday honors all past presidents and the presidency itself and could serve as an opportunity for you to teach your little ones about the importance of the institution. So, if you want to keep them engaged during that long weekend, here are six fun things you can do on President's Day with your family and/or kids.
What is President's Day?
Also known as Washington's Birthday, President's Day is an annual federal holiday that is celebrated on the third Monday of February. The red-letter day was established by the Congress in 1885(1) in honor of the first U.S. president and founding father, George Washington.
Initially, the holiday was celebrated on February 22th, which was Washington's Birthday. But, in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act(2), which moved several holidays from fixed dates to designated Mondays to increase the number of three-day weekends throughout the year.
By moving the date, many were led to believe that President's Day was also meant to commemorate Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday was on February 12th. That's why the celebration ended up serving as a tribute to all past presidents and their contribution to our country.
6 Fun Ways to Celebrate President's Day
1. Schedule a Road Trip to a Historical Location
If you live within a reasonable driving distance from a historical location (i.e., a national landmark, a district with historical significance, or a presidential birthplace), it'd be a good idea to go on a road trip with your family. In fact, depending on the proximity of the location, you could organize a day trip or spend the entire three-day weekend there as you sink into its history. It's totally up to you!
And if you live near Washington, D.C., note that you'll be hard-pressed to find a more appropriate place than Alexandria, Virginia. The city holds the country's largest President's Day Parade with marching bands and historical reenactments filling the streets where Washington himself once roamed.
Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens is another praiseworthy destination as it offers an array of special events such as wreath-laying ceremonies, storytelling demonstrations, and other historical activities that kids can't help but love.
2. Take a Virtual Tour
The Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., features a permanent exhibition called The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden (3). This presentation grants visitors an insight into the lives and contributions of the men who led our nation since its founding through 900 historical objects and artifacts.
However, heading to D.C. and paying a visit to the museum isn't for everyone – which is why you could take your little one on a virtual tour of the exhibit. The online platform allows you to look up each president and read everything regarding the objects featured and their connection to the presidency. The tour also provides online visitors with glimpses of the day-to-day life in the White House.
3. Make Themed Crafts
Another fun way to celebrate President's Day with your kid is to engage in some good old crafts. The best part about this activity is that it doesn't require any fancy equipment. All you have to do is get creative with the things you already own, i.e., coloring pens, paper, glue, glitter, etc. Lincoln's signature top hat and the presidential powdered wig (out of cotton balls) are two very easy options. But, if you feel like taking things up a notch, here's a short list of all the crafts you can take up:
4. Dine Like a President
We all know that long weekends are the perfect chance to get the family together and enjoy some of the tastiest home-cooked meals. But, given the holiday's theme, you could add a little presidential flair to the mix. That being said, recreate some of the dishes that made our former presidents weak in the knees (7), whether it's Roosevelt's beloved Yum Dogs or Nixon's favorite meatloaf. The Mount Vernon website(8) even shares some of George Washington's go-to recipes, allowing you to feast like it was 1799 all over again. But, if you don't feel like going that fancy, you can stick to basics by baking a flag pizza(9), whipping up a batch of these regal eagle cookies(10), or popping a bowl of blue, white, and red popcorn(11) for the kids. The options are endless!
Friendly tip 1: You can even ask your mini-me’s to help around in the kitchen and make this occasion a family matter.
Friendly tip 2: Since some of the recipes could be tricky, you can simplify the process by adding dried vegetables or freeze dried fruits. They are just as tasty and nutritious as the real deal and are already chopped, which shall cut your prepping time in half.
5. Put on a Play
This activity may sound like a lot of work, but it's totally worth it, especially if your little one is a natural at acting. That said, you can have them reenact the most memorable presidential speeches (in their own way, of course) or play out a "Day in the Life" as instructed by several children's' books. To get things started, design his/her costume (don't worry if it's not perfect), practice a few lines here and there, and let them have at it. You can even set up a play date with other parents, and along with your kids, write your own story about a president, and then have them star in it.
6. Write a Letter to the White House
It's never too early to teach your kids that speaking your mind is a good thing – especially if you have something valuable to bring to the table. So, for this President's Day, have your little one write a letter to the President or even the First Lady. Urge them to share their hopes, feelings, and ideas for the future, and forward their message to the White House. Just make sure you follow the guidelines (12) so that their letter doesn't get rejected.
How will you celebrate President's Day? Let us know in the comments down below!
References:
1. https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/presidents-day
2. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-82/pdf/STATUTE-82-Pg250-3.pdf
3. https://americanhistory.si.edu/presidency/
4. http://funfamilycrafts.com/bald-eagle-magnet/
5. http://www.icanteachmychild.com/2011/02/future-presidents/
6. https://www.notimeforflashcards.com/2013/02/presidents-day-craft-for-toddlers-kids.html
7. https://food52.com/blog/9784-17-presidents-favorite-foods-for-presidents-day
8. https://www.mountvernon.org/inn/recipes/
9. https://www.marthastewart.com/1117961/american-pie
10. http://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2013/06/july-4th-regal-eagle-cookies.html
11. https://blog.onlinelabels.com/2018/02/05/patriotic-popcorn-for-presidents-day/
12. https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
13. https://www.rd.com/culture/celebrate-presidents-day-children/
