I originally intended to keep writing here until Christmas Eve, but there’s been a family event that will be drawing me away from my computer until after Christmas. I’ll resume writing on the 27th (maybe), and I’ll take the day off on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day as well. (If you’re thinking of [...]
Okay, folks, it’s the eighteenth of December. If you haven’t already purchased, wrapped, and mailed all of your presents, then you’re more daring than I. Go ahead and finish up already; the stress of waiting until the day before (or the day of, if you’re seriously pushing it) is more than mere mortals can handle. [...]
The weather has turned cold here in Northern California, as I’m sure it did long ago for those of you who live in the Midwest or on the East Coast (or overseas, for that matter). Though California is known for its temperate climate, those of us who inhabit the state’s northern reaches might object to [...]
I don’t know exactly how many years I’ve used Burt’s Bees Orange Essence Facial Cleanser, but it’s been at least seven. To be accurate, I did stray away time and again. A dermatologist suggested Cetaphil, and other scented, frilly cleansers caught my eye. And yet, I always came back to Burt’s. As I’ve stated before, [...]
You may remember last year’s Gift Guide, which was sort of a beginner’s attempt at “green consumerism.” Normally I hate that concept, because I believe wholeheartedly that the only way to make a difference is to consume less. But this is Christmas, people, and unless the entire United States (and other countries where the holiday [...]
With the holidays approaching, I can feel the panic beginning as I start the list-making process. We have a big family, so it takes some planning to make sure no one gets left out when the gifts get sent. I like to mail my gifts a little early, mainly because I have a (somewhat) irrational [...]
I am very passionate about a nasal inhaler. Yes, you read that correctly. The Olbas inhaler is quite possibly my favorite natural product. My passion flows from the fact that I’ve battled allergies most of my life, so a stuffy nose is a common ailment of mine. Likewise, my sinuses are prone to flare up [...]
After yesterday’s post in which I tore into Batter Blaster, I realized that I couldn’t deny you the above video. I can’t believe the company actually paid for it. At best, it makes the product seem like a SNL joke. Does making your potential customers question the authenticity of your product qualify as a good branding exercise? [...]
Today I met Ted at a local Whole Foods Market to grab some lunch and do some grocery shopping. As we walked the aisles, Ted noticed a yellow can in the dairy case that said “Organic Batter Blaster.” Can you guess what this product is? It’s pre-mixed pancake and waffle batter that you spray on [...]
Remember all that hype and frenzy around those “This Is Not a Plastic Bag” canvas shopping bags? That was ridiculous. But carrying a reusable cloth bag at the store is definitely NOT ridiculous; it’s incredibly wise. Neither paper bags nor plastic offer a good solution. I did a little digging and came up with lots [...]
MAIN DISH: Polish Sausage with Yukon Gold Potatoes
SIDE DISH: Sautéed Cabbage Wedges
DESSERT: Persimmon Pudding
MUSIC: Iron & Wine, The Shepherd’s Dog