Droughts, inflation, global events: Many things affect food prices, and in the last year, they’ve been on the rise in several categories. No matter why they go up, and even if they go down, creating a grocery budget — and sticking to it — will help you lower your food expenditures. And a smart budget … Read More
The weather is warming, flowers are blooming, birds are chirping — Spring is on its way, energizing everything in its path. Put your energy boost into a thorough spring-cleaning, using these ideas to get you started. Green Cleaning The urge to rid your home of all dust, grime and germs might lead you to pull … Read More
I couldn’t help but create something lean, clean, delicious and green for the month of March. Spring is upon us, and St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, so why not celebrate with the season’s most festive and delicious color? Here, a healthier, heartier spin on a delightful classic—the Green Goddess Salad. If only … Read More
Looking for ways to enjoy the beauty and bounty of the spring season that’ll be fun for the entire family? Check out some of our favorite fresh-air Alabama destinations and one spot that’s right next door. (pictured above: Lookout Mountain in DeSoto State Park. Photography provided by DCNR) Hidden Treat Buck’s Pocket State Park is … Read More
Would you like to feel more relaxed, energetic and less stressed? Then add this list of stress-busting foods to your diet. They’re good for you and taste great too! Avocados” Bananas usually get all the praise when we’re talking about potassium, but avocados are packed with potassium, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E too. All … Read More
I’ve read before that the key to a balanced diet is a piece of chocolate in both hands. Consider this: Numerous studies have found dark chocolate to be highly nutritious and rich in antioxidants with the potential to improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, raise good HDL cholesterol, lower the risk of heart disease, enhance skin … Read More
After the excitement of the holidays dies down, and with less daylight and colder weather keeping us indoors more, February can get a little glum. In fact, science has proven that the lower exposure to light in wintertime can result in lower levels of serotonin, the mood-enhancing chemical that regulates hunger and the feeling of … Read More
Inspired by my favorite Golden Tea, this soup is exactly what you’ll need to get yourself through the woes of winter. It is light and bright yet warm and cozy, too and loaded with immunity-boosting antioxidants designed to help your body restore itself after a bout with those pesky colds, coughs, and yes, even COVID. While … Read More
As 2007 drew to a close, and Pam Mashburn welcomed a fresh new year, she was on a roll. The small business owner, wife and mom was gearing up for a great 2008. Then, just a few weeks into January, a routine mammogram resulted in some not-great news: breast cancer. With determination, a sense of … Read More
When the temperatures drop, it’s tempting to just crank up the thermostat, but running your home’s heater on high can really increase your utility bill. Try these tips to stay cozy while keeping energy costs in your comfort zone. Plan Ahead. Invest in a programmable thermostat and set it to turn the heat down during … Read More