My love of the natural world was forged at an early age. My mother is always telling my wife stories of how I, as child would run off and play in the bushes instead of playing on the playground. It was always about the scavenger hunt for me. I was always looking for a new bug or little critter to bring home. My moms favorite story is how I, on one winter afternoon decided to bring home a jar of carpenter bees which I had accidentally unearth, and didn't want them to die, therefore I re-homed them in my parents bedroom. Needless to say, my parents were not pleased with my intent in saving the bees. Till this day i am afriad I am not quite sure of whatever became of those bees, I never dared to ask!
However, as hurricane Irene tore through the east cost I was again in a situation where I had to save the bees. I had to admit when I decided to create my urban farm yard, keeping chickens and becoming a beekeeper, the thought of a hurricane never entered my mind. But now the threat was real. Irene was coming, and all my hard work was in real danger. I knew from the News forecast that Irene would be heading straight for us. My wife and I knew we had our work cut out for us, and no time to waste. Getting our home ready for a hurricane is one thing, but when you have livestock in an urban setting this becomes a whole other matter. I don't think a city shelter was ready for us and our livestock. Imagine the conversation with the evacuation shelter when I ask them if they have room for two adults with chickens and 10,000 bees. I don't think a conversation like this would of faired very well.
The first thing I did was to make sure our home was not situated in a flood zone. Thankfully we are not, however that's never a guaranty we wouldn't be flooded. But it's a start. I moved the bees to the highest point on our property and anchored them down with cinderblocks to keep them from being blown away. Then crossed my fingers and prayed! I then had to secure the hens. Those little ladies spent a good part of the hurricane in dog kennels which we had kept from previous pet dogs we had owned. They were then moved from their coop and temporarily occupied one of the vacant bedrooms which I have yet to renovate. Yes, thats right I had to bring in the chickens! OMG!, I think they believed they were being crated up for the butcher the way they were clucking!
Now that the livestock was secured. We had to get the house ready for the storm. We had to make sure we had enough food and water for the both of us and the hens. Made sure the car had a full tank of gas just in case we did have to evacuate. However the current plan was to wait out this storm at home. So then began the waiting game!
I can't say I wasn't worried , the truth of the matter is, I was! New York hasn't seen a hurricane of this magnitude since hurricane Gloria, and I remember all the damage she did when she payed us a visit. Our home was built in 1899, and she's no stranger to hurricanes. However, I Had my reservations. We'd soon find out, as hurricane Irene was only 7 hours away.
There she blows,Irene finally reached us. She dumped about 12 inches of rain on us, but I suspect more. I can say this with gusto as I am the proud owner of a new in door swimming pool in our basement, as a result of hurricane Irene. With wind speed of 56mpr, wind gusts of 65 Irene hammered Staten Island. We slept in our living room, as the storm had her way with us. All we could do is wait her out, prayed a lot and hoped for the best.
It was 4 a.m., when I remembered the bees. I wondered if the cinderblocks I had placed on top of them had been enough to keep them from blowing over. I made my way to the kitchen window which has the best view of the hive. At first all I could see is trees swaying back and forth as if they had received the Holy Spirit on Sunday mass. Then I saw it in the distance, a small little brown box, held down by the weight of those concrete blocks. I couldn't help but feel overjoyed, at least for the moment they were ok. But we still had several hours of storm yet to pass.
Then thankfully, it was over ten hours later. We'd had made through this storm unharmed and stepped outside to survey any damages caused by Irene to our property. The worse we had received was the flooding in the basement. I considered ourselves blessed with that alone. The bees road out the storm just fine, and the hens were glad to get out of the those pens and forage through the landscape once again.
All and all I was thankful that this storm gave us a pardon. However, we may not be so blessed for the next one. Yet I am some what grateful to Irene, for with out her threat and other storms such as her, I would have never known what it takes to prepare an urban farm for disasters such as these. It has given me a better perspective on disaster preparation.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Old-Time Favorites: Plants for Your Garden Worth Remembering
Old-Time Favorites: Plants for Your Garden Worth Remembering
By: Nikki Phipps
Remember the almost magical feeling of your grandmother's garden, bursting with loads of colorful, fragrant blooms and magnificent foliage? There was always something going on in the garden; and nearly every plant had a specific purpose, whether it was for the kitchen, treating ailments, or keeping up appearances.
Gardeners of the past created beautiful landscapes with many of the same plants commonly seen today. Heirloom plants are quite hardy, and many of these vintage flowers have managed to survive on their own throughout centuries, while others have been cultivated into more modern varieties. Nonetheless, these old-time favorites are worth remembering so why not rediscover the past by incorporating some old-fashioned beauties into your own garden.
One of my personal favorites has been around since about the 17th century. A spectacular showpiece during the spring, the Lilac has sweet-smelling lavender blossoms. Today, there are numerous cultivars available, including some with yellow or white flowers.
Another exceptional plant in its own right is the rose. The modern varieties are typically grown for their form and color; however, the old-garden varieties, such as Tea or Damask roses, are sought after for their intense aromas. While these traditional favorites tend to be more like shrubs and very thorny, they combine well with many perennials, bulbs, and ornamental grasses. Old-garden roses are always the perfect choice for country or cottage gardens.
There are many types of plants that are grown for their fragrances. Creeping Thyme is one of them. This beautiful groundcover creates a carpet of scented lavender-pink color and looks just as attractive spilling over stone walls or containers. Keep it near the house for use in the kitchen or making potpourri.
You can even grow Creeping Thyme alongside another fragrant old-timer-Lavender, my grandmother's favorite. Varieties of lavender include unforgettable scents with spikes of lavender to dark purple flowers. Lavender also makes a great groundcover and commonly used in potpourri or massage oils.
Garden Heliotrope was once just as popular in the garden as geraniums. These plants, with white or purple vanilla-scented blooms, enjoy plenty of sun and make lovely cut flowers. Who can possibly ignore the sweet aromas on summer evenings radiating from a bed of Petunias? There are numerous colors and varieties, all providing the same charm of long ago.
The Sweet Pea has been a long-time favorite in many gardens. This flower is great for cutting and its strong scents will fill the area with pleasant aromas. Although sweet peas generally prefer cool summers and plenty of moisture, there are many varieties which are heat tolerant, allowing virtually anyone the ability to grow them.
Feverfew not only smells great, but did you know that its foliage can repel insects, making them a good plant to have around. The plant looks quite at home mixed with old-time roses and foxgloves.
I have always enjoyed the honey-scented blooms of Sweet Alyssum. It makes a perfect edging for beds and blends nicely with nearly any type of landscape.
Since many old-fashioned gardens were surrounded by fencing, flowering vines were often used to enhance its appearance. They were also used in other areas to help provide much needed shade. Dating back to the 1800s, Clematis has long since been known as a vigorous grower with abundant blooms. Don't limit them to fences; however, they look stunning climbing along a trellis or pergola.
The Passion flower can be traced as far back as the 1600s and has religious significance, deriving its name from the crucifixion of Christ. This lovely flowering vine produces masses of scented blooms bearing luscious fruits, and many grow naturally in some areas.
The Balloon Vine (love-in-a-puff) was a commonly grown plant in the 1800s, delighting children with its light-green, inflated seed capsules (puffs) that appear after the vine's white flowers have faded.
While some people may not appreciate its presence, due to its ability to climb anything within reach, the Morning Glory is another unforgettable plant. Morning glories are easy to grow and thrive in all types of soil conditions. Although they can be found growing in the wild, the cultivated varieties are less likely to take over the garden. These beautiful morning bloomers make quite a statement summer through fall-what a wonderful way to welcome each new day.
Numerous annuals and perennials were found growing throughout old-fashioned gardens. As far back as the 1800s, Ageratum has been a garden favorite. The long-lasting, fuzzy blue flowers are great for cutting. It's also a self-sowing plant, popping up in some of the most unlikely of places. Plant them with Heliotrope and sweet alyssum; you won't be disappointed.
Poppies are hardy, cool-weather annuals that are easy to grow. These old-time plants prefer fertile, well-drained soil and come in numerous shades and varieties.
Once grown for its edible properties, especially for salads, Nasturtiums are among the easiest annuals to grow. You can find them in a variety of colors which will bloom profusely for extended periods. Trailing varieties look great in containers or tumbling down slopes; the compact types are good for use as edging.
An old-time favorite loved for its brilliant foliage is Coleus. This plant is ideal for containers or as a colorful edging.
No garden is ever complete without Zinnias. These colorful showstoppers are excellent for cut-flower gardens.
The interesting flowers and foliage of Foxgloves earn these plants a welcome place in the garden; however, foxgloves are considered poisonous so keep young children away.
One look in grandma's garden and you're sure to find some old-fashioned Hollyhocks. These summer-blooming beauties have found popularity in informal country settings or growing alongside fences and other structures.
Violets have been around awhile and well loved for some time. They make a good groundcover or grow them in containers.
Columbine has been popular since about the 1600s and can be found in white, pink, or blue varieties. Use them as cut flowers or simply mix them in a natural setting with hosta, iris, foxglove, and lady's mantle.
Another personal favorite of mine includes the mixed shades of Sweet William. This perennial flower goes well with many plants, such as foxgloves and peonies.
Some of the most beloved flower favorites come in the form of bulbs and many are ideal for cutting. Dahlias have lavish blooms during late summer and early fall and are available in a variety of colors.
Who doesn't enjoy the lovely blooms and aromas of the Iris? There are numerous varieties to suit nearly any garden.
Another old-time favorite with a wide range of colors and growing conditions is the Lily. Lilies have a long history and have been grown for centuries.
Cannas have also been popular for their dazzling array of colors. Plant them in masses and enjoy waves of colorful blooms summer through fall.
Some of the best plants for your garden, big or small, can be taken from the old-fashioned gardens of the past. These plants have lasted through many generations; and if you want to capture the nostalgia of grandmother's garden in your own, they will continue to do so for many more.
Author Bio
This article was written by Nikki Phipps and sponsored by Gardening Know How. http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/.
Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/
By: Nikki Phipps
Remember the almost magical feeling of your grandmother's garden, bursting with loads of colorful, fragrant blooms and magnificent foliage? There was always something going on in the garden; and nearly every plant had a specific purpose, whether it was for the kitchen, treating ailments, or keeping up appearances.
Gardeners of the past created beautiful landscapes with many of the same plants commonly seen today. Heirloom plants are quite hardy, and many of these vintage flowers have managed to survive on their own throughout centuries, while others have been cultivated into more modern varieties. Nonetheless, these old-time favorites are worth remembering so why not rediscover the past by incorporating some old-fashioned beauties into your own garden.
One of my personal favorites has been around since about the 17th century. A spectacular showpiece during the spring, the Lilac has sweet-smelling lavender blossoms. Today, there are numerous cultivars available, including some with yellow or white flowers.
Another exceptional plant in its own right is the rose. The modern varieties are typically grown for their form and color; however, the old-garden varieties, such as Tea or Damask roses, are sought after for their intense aromas. While these traditional favorites tend to be more like shrubs and very thorny, they combine well with many perennials, bulbs, and ornamental grasses. Old-garden roses are always the perfect choice for country or cottage gardens.
There are many types of plants that are grown for their fragrances. Creeping Thyme is one of them. This beautiful groundcover creates a carpet of scented lavender-pink color and looks just as attractive spilling over stone walls or containers. Keep it near the house for use in the kitchen or making potpourri.
You can even grow Creeping Thyme alongside another fragrant old-timer-Lavender, my grandmother's favorite. Varieties of lavender include unforgettable scents with spikes of lavender to dark purple flowers. Lavender also makes a great groundcover and commonly used in potpourri or massage oils.
Garden Heliotrope was once just as popular in the garden as geraniums. These plants, with white or purple vanilla-scented blooms, enjoy plenty of sun and make lovely cut flowers. Who can possibly ignore the sweet aromas on summer evenings radiating from a bed of Petunias? There are numerous colors and varieties, all providing the same charm of long ago.
The Sweet Pea has been a long-time favorite in many gardens. This flower is great for cutting and its strong scents will fill the area with pleasant aromas. Although sweet peas generally prefer cool summers and plenty of moisture, there are many varieties which are heat tolerant, allowing virtually anyone the ability to grow them.
Feverfew not only smells great, but did you know that its foliage can repel insects, making them a good plant to have around. The plant looks quite at home mixed with old-time roses and foxgloves.
I have always enjoyed the honey-scented blooms of Sweet Alyssum. It makes a perfect edging for beds and blends nicely with nearly any type of landscape.
Since many old-fashioned gardens were surrounded by fencing, flowering vines were often used to enhance its appearance. They were also used in other areas to help provide much needed shade. Dating back to the 1800s, Clematis has long since been known as a vigorous grower with abundant blooms. Don't limit them to fences; however, they look stunning climbing along a trellis or pergola.
The Passion flower can be traced as far back as the 1600s and has religious significance, deriving its name from the crucifixion of Christ. This lovely flowering vine produces masses of scented blooms bearing luscious fruits, and many grow naturally in some areas.
The Balloon Vine (love-in-a-puff) was a commonly grown plant in the 1800s, delighting children with its light-green, inflated seed capsules (puffs) that appear after the vine's white flowers have faded.
While some people may not appreciate its presence, due to its ability to climb anything within reach, the Morning Glory is another unforgettable plant. Morning glories are easy to grow and thrive in all types of soil conditions. Although they can be found growing in the wild, the cultivated varieties are less likely to take over the garden. These beautiful morning bloomers make quite a statement summer through fall-what a wonderful way to welcome each new day.
Numerous annuals and perennials were found growing throughout old-fashioned gardens. As far back as the 1800s, Ageratum has been a garden favorite. The long-lasting, fuzzy blue flowers are great for cutting. It's also a self-sowing plant, popping up in some of the most unlikely of places. Plant them with Heliotrope and sweet alyssum; you won't be disappointed.
Poppies are hardy, cool-weather annuals that are easy to grow. These old-time plants prefer fertile, well-drained soil and come in numerous shades and varieties.
Once grown for its edible properties, especially for salads, Nasturtiums are among the easiest annuals to grow. You can find them in a variety of colors which will bloom profusely for extended periods. Trailing varieties look great in containers or tumbling down slopes; the compact types are good for use as edging.
An old-time favorite loved for its brilliant foliage is Coleus. This plant is ideal for containers or as a colorful edging.
No garden is ever complete without Zinnias. These colorful showstoppers are excellent for cut-flower gardens.
The interesting flowers and foliage of Foxgloves earn these plants a welcome place in the garden; however, foxgloves are considered poisonous so keep young children away.
One look in grandma's garden and you're sure to find some old-fashioned Hollyhocks. These summer-blooming beauties have found popularity in informal country settings or growing alongside fences and other structures.
Violets have been around awhile and well loved for some time. They make a good groundcover or grow them in containers.
Columbine has been popular since about the 1600s and can be found in white, pink, or blue varieties. Use them as cut flowers or simply mix them in a natural setting with hosta, iris, foxglove, and lady's mantle.
Another personal favorite of mine includes the mixed shades of Sweet William. This perennial flower goes well with many plants, such as foxgloves and peonies.
Some of the most beloved flower favorites come in the form of bulbs and many are ideal for cutting. Dahlias have lavish blooms during late summer and early fall and are available in a variety of colors.
Who doesn't enjoy the lovely blooms and aromas of the Iris? There are numerous varieties to suit nearly any garden.
Another old-time favorite with a wide range of colors and growing conditions is the Lily. Lilies have a long history and have been grown for centuries.
Cannas have also been popular for their dazzling array of colors. Plant them in masses and enjoy waves of colorful blooms summer through fall.
Some of the best plants for your garden, big or small, can be taken from the old-fashioned gardens of the past. These plants have lasted through many generations; and if you want to capture the nostalgia of grandmother's garden in your own, they will continue to do so for many more.
Author Bio
This article was written by Nikki Phipps and sponsored by Gardening Know How. http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/.
Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/
Soap Making Can Be Fun And Profitable
Soap Making Can Be Fun And Profitable
By: Ralph Ruckman
If you have ever made soap from scratch or are thinking about it, you should probably know that it can be one of the most frustrating things you will ever do. After learning the process though, a lot of people find it to be one of the best hobbies or crafts they have ever done. Soap making can be a hobby for people, but it can also turn out to be a very profitable business. Before you go rushing into thinking that you are going to just create this beautiful and profitable soap making business, you had better look at some the important features regarding this business.
The most important feature of a soap making business is going to be the legal disclaimers. You had better know what you are doing when you create your handmade soap. People can not just go out and buy the necessary materials, whip out a batch of soap, and then proceed to marketing or selling it. You have a lot of disclaimers and in some states, laws that you have to abide be. Each state, region, and country is different, so it is up to you to do your proper research on the matter and to complete all the paperwork necessary for you to proceed with your soap making business.
After you have cleared all of the legal necessities out of the way, it is all systems go for your business. Now you will have to think about your time planning. Time planning will be crucial to your business, as everyone that has made soap knows that it is a tedious process. Set yourself a schedule up and follow it. If you have soap curing, take the time to start mixing yourself another batch. By having a continuing process, you will be able to produce more soap and not fall behind, which will only lead to confusion and frustration.
Now that you have gotten all the legal stuff out of the way, and you have a good amount of soap made, it is time for you to sell your soap. People who sell soap are only limited by their imagination. Craft fairs are huge for soap sellers. Travel to a craft show and set up a booth to present and sell your soap. Not only can you make good money from this, but you can also get tons of ideas for more soap. People stopping by your booth will critique your soap. They will tell you what they do or do not like about it. Always accept the compliments, even if they seem rude. This is "critique" and it can either "make" or break" you.
Bath and Body work shops are a huge fan of soaps. Some of these store will allow a person to present their soaps inside their stores. This is where the legal disclaimers come in. You will not even get a blink from the manager if you do not have your legal paperwork. Also, this may cost you a fee to present your soaps in the bath shops. Always research and think the deal over before making your decision. If you do present your soaps in these shops, this can be huge. Try to provide some type of business card, or a website address about your soaps. Word of mouth is an enormous tool, and in bath shops it can be a viral one. You may not be able to sell your soaps in the store, but a nice presentation can yield results overnight that you never would have thought of.
Online advertising for your soap business is not vital, but it could be if you are not quite cutting it in the "real world". Just think of the possible number of people you could reach with your soaps. The numbers are endless. Have a nice little website set up showing all of your soaps. A first impression of your site is the critical part of advertising online. This will decide if a single person will ever return. It is good to have a description along with your soap pictures. You could explain what ingredients are in the soap, what fragrances are in them, etc...
These are only a few things you could do for a soap making business. This is assuming that either you know how to make soap or that you take the necessary steps to successful soap making. Once you have reached that point of success it will be time for you to think about broadening your horizons. A soap making business can be a very lucrative field for anyone to get into. Types of soap to make are endless, and the amount of money to earn is only limited to your willingness to make the soap and put it in front of the eyes of people.
Author Bio
Ralph Ruckman is the author of "Soap Making" a weblog dedicated for providing information on all aspects of soap making. Feel Free to visit the blog at: soap--making.blogspot.com Article is available for reprint as long as the author bio/resource text is left intact with the article.
Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/
By: Ralph Ruckman
If you have ever made soap from scratch or are thinking about it, you should probably know that it can be one of the most frustrating things you will ever do. After learning the process though, a lot of people find it to be one of the best hobbies or crafts they have ever done. Soap making can be a hobby for people, but it can also turn out to be a very profitable business. Before you go rushing into thinking that you are going to just create this beautiful and profitable soap making business, you had better look at some the important features regarding this business.
The most important feature of a soap making business is going to be the legal disclaimers. You had better know what you are doing when you create your handmade soap. People can not just go out and buy the necessary materials, whip out a batch of soap, and then proceed to marketing or selling it. You have a lot of disclaimers and in some states, laws that you have to abide be. Each state, region, and country is different, so it is up to you to do your proper research on the matter and to complete all the paperwork necessary for you to proceed with your soap making business.
After you have cleared all of the legal necessities out of the way, it is all systems go for your business. Now you will have to think about your time planning. Time planning will be crucial to your business, as everyone that has made soap knows that it is a tedious process. Set yourself a schedule up and follow it. If you have soap curing, take the time to start mixing yourself another batch. By having a continuing process, you will be able to produce more soap and not fall behind, which will only lead to confusion and frustration.
Now that you have gotten all the legal stuff out of the way, and you have a good amount of soap made, it is time for you to sell your soap. People who sell soap are only limited by their imagination. Craft fairs are huge for soap sellers. Travel to a craft show and set up a booth to present and sell your soap. Not only can you make good money from this, but you can also get tons of ideas for more soap. People stopping by your booth will critique your soap. They will tell you what they do or do not like about it. Always accept the compliments, even if they seem rude. This is "critique" and it can either "make" or break" you.
Bath and Body work shops are a huge fan of soaps. Some of these store will allow a person to present their soaps inside their stores. This is where the legal disclaimers come in. You will not even get a blink from the manager if you do not have your legal paperwork. Also, this may cost you a fee to present your soaps in the bath shops. Always research and think the deal over before making your decision. If you do present your soaps in these shops, this can be huge. Try to provide some type of business card, or a website address about your soaps. Word of mouth is an enormous tool, and in bath shops it can be a viral one. You may not be able to sell your soaps in the store, but a nice presentation can yield results overnight that you never would have thought of.
Online advertising for your soap business is not vital, but it could be if you are not quite cutting it in the "real world". Just think of the possible number of people you could reach with your soaps. The numbers are endless. Have a nice little website set up showing all of your soaps. A first impression of your site is the critical part of advertising online. This will decide if a single person will ever return. It is good to have a description along with your soap pictures. You could explain what ingredients are in the soap, what fragrances are in them, etc...
These are only a few things you could do for a soap making business. This is assuming that either you know how to make soap or that you take the necessary steps to successful soap making. Once you have reached that point of success it will be time for you to think about broadening your horizons. A soap making business can be a very lucrative field for anyone to get into. Types of soap to make are endless, and the amount of money to earn is only limited to your willingness to make the soap and put it in front of the eyes of people.
Author Bio
Ralph Ruckman is the author of "Soap Making" a weblog dedicated for providing information on all aspects of soap making. Feel Free to visit the blog at: soap--making.blogspot.com Article is available for reprint as long as the author bio/resource text is left intact with the article.
Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/
The Effect of Fish Oil on Fat Burning
The Effect of Fish Oil on Fat Burning
By: David Woynarowski, M.D.
I have written many emails over the years on the effect of fish oil on fat burning.
Lately there has been corroborating scientific evidence that fish oil can reduce belly fat and aid in fat burning as part of a solid diet and exercise program. But still I get questions like the one below.
"Doc, I have read some of the stuff in your articles archive. I don't understand how fat can burn fat. It just does not make sense." William Hennessey Kansas City.
Yikes! This could be one of those god-awful scientific emails. Ok I promise to keep it clean after all you've got enough on your plate.
Here's the deal. All foods have effects on the hormone systems of the body. Some foods like fish oils actually behave like hormones in that they affect all kinds of other things from your genetic material to your proteins and other hormones. Fish Oils especialy influence the way the cell behaves at an individual level.
On that level, fish oil helps to gets cells to take in more fat and become more able to use that fat as fuel.
Most of the fish oil you take has far more effect on these cellular and hormone systems than it ever has on your calorie intake.
Hence when someone asks me the inevitable, "Won't I get fat on fish Oil since it's a fat?" question, I can always say, "Nope" with confidence. But there is another simple way to tell that fish oil is working for you. If and when you go to get your cholesterol checked you will usually see a couple of things on Fish Oil if it's high quality.
First, your good cholesterol will go up. Very good. Next your triglycerides will go down. What are triglycerides? Raw fat in transit. This is the way your body moves fat through your bloodstream. Whether you export it (burn it up as fuel in your cells) or import it into your arteries to clog them depends a heck of a lot on how much fish oil you have in your system at the time.
So remember, when you eat a lousy meal, pop some extra fish oil! Here is what happens to those ugly, nasty, artery clogging fats if you do: "Doc, Just wanted to let you know the results of my most recent blood tests. I am 61 years old and have been on Lipitor for the past 9 months. I have been taking your fish oil capsules for two months. My doctor's office called yesterday to inform me of the results of my blood work done last week. They just said it was great. I asked to please let me know the differences from the last tests 6 months ago. My total cholesterol dropped from 158 to 149. The improvement was due to lower LDL, but the exciting numbers were the drop in triglycerides. My triglycerides have always been high. The test 6 months ago had me at 218, this latest one was 109. Cut in half!!
The doctor's office asked what I was doing differently. I said 3 things. Two bad one good. I had not exercised in 8 months and had gained 8 pounds, but I started taking your pharmaceutical grade fish oil. They were impressed as I was. Now everyone in my office wants to get on the bandwagon. We are buying a case today!!!"
Best regards,
Rick McNeil
Plano, TX
Good job Rick and thanks for taking the time to share with us. Remember you can burn fat with the right kind of supplements. Fish oil rules! All the best form the King of Pharmaceutical Grade fish Oil, Dr. Dave.
Author Bio
Dr Dave's Best.com was founded in Nov of 2002 in order to answer the growing need for high quality nutritional supplements and supplement solutions to the vast array of problems that Dr Dave sees on a daily basis, and to provide anti-aging information to the public in an understandable format.
To read more about Dr Dave, Click Here.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com
By: David Woynarowski, M.D.
I have written many emails over the years on the effect of fish oil on fat burning.
Lately there has been corroborating scientific evidence that fish oil can reduce belly fat and aid in fat burning as part of a solid diet and exercise program. But still I get questions like the one below.
"Doc, I have read some of the stuff in your articles archive. I don't understand how fat can burn fat. It just does not make sense." William Hennessey Kansas City.
Yikes! This could be one of those god-awful scientific emails. Ok I promise to keep it clean after all you've got enough on your plate.
Here's the deal. All foods have effects on the hormone systems of the body. Some foods like fish oils actually behave like hormones in that they affect all kinds of other things from your genetic material to your proteins and other hormones. Fish Oils especialy influence the way the cell behaves at an individual level.
On that level, fish oil helps to gets cells to take in more fat and become more able to use that fat as fuel.
Most of the fish oil you take has far more effect on these cellular and hormone systems than it ever has on your calorie intake.
Hence when someone asks me the inevitable, "Won't I get fat on fish Oil since it's a fat?" question, I can always say, "Nope" with confidence. But there is another simple way to tell that fish oil is working for you. If and when you go to get your cholesterol checked you will usually see a couple of things on Fish Oil if it's high quality.
First, your good cholesterol will go up. Very good. Next your triglycerides will go down. What are triglycerides? Raw fat in transit. This is the way your body moves fat through your bloodstream. Whether you export it (burn it up as fuel in your cells) or import it into your arteries to clog them depends a heck of a lot on how much fish oil you have in your system at the time.
So remember, when you eat a lousy meal, pop some extra fish oil! Here is what happens to those ugly, nasty, artery clogging fats if you do: "Doc, Just wanted to let you know the results of my most recent blood tests. I am 61 years old and have been on Lipitor for the past 9 months. I have been taking your fish oil capsules for two months. My doctor's office called yesterday to inform me of the results of my blood work done last week. They just said it was great. I asked to please let me know the differences from the last tests 6 months ago. My total cholesterol dropped from 158 to 149. The improvement was due to lower LDL, but the exciting numbers were the drop in triglycerides. My triglycerides have always been high. The test 6 months ago had me at 218, this latest one was 109. Cut in half!!
The doctor's office asked what I was doing differently. I said 3 things. Two bad one good. I had not exercised in 8 months and had gained 8 pounds, but I started taking your pharmaceutical grade fish oil. They were impressed as I was. Now everyone in my office wants to get on the bandwagon. We are buying a case today!!!"
Best regards,
Rick McNeil
Plano, TX
Good job Rick and thanks for taking the time to share with us. Remember you can burn fat with the right kind of supplements. Fish oil rules! All the best form the King of Pharmaceutical Grade fish Oil, Dr. Dave.
Author Bio
Dr Dave's Best.com was founded in Nov of 2002 in order to answer the growing need for high quality nutritional supplements and supplement solutions to the vast array of problems that Dr Dave sees on a daily basis, and to provide anti-aging information to the public in an understandable format.
To read more about Dr Dave, Click Here.
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Sunday, August 14, 2011
The Savvy Gardener.
For all those savvy gardeners out there who read my blog page this one's for you. I have been working on a new project here on my urban farm which I am extremely excited about. However before I get to this project let me give an updated status on the progress on my little patch of green Earth.
It's almost the middle of August and summer will be taking its' hiatus and fall will soon be taking its place. Soon the trees will being to change color and the day's will be getting shorter and nights longer. In its wake of summer's end their will be remnants of something which was grown on this urban farm. I will fill my compost bins full of decaying matter for next years vegetable production. Yet their is still time to plant a fall crop to harvest later on this season. A planting of lettuce, broccoli, garlic and any other cold crop can be planted before this winter sets in. The chickens are doing great as always. Their in full laying mode, and they are loving their new home. This is the hens second summer with us and they have given us a good amount of eggs this summer more than we are able to eat. So I will be giving some away to friends and neighbors to share in our reaping.
Since the arrival of the bee's I finally have fruit on my plants. The tomatoes, squash and cucumbers have all given me a production of nice sized fruit. All this has been made possible because I decided to maintain a bee hive on my property. I can't believe how much of a difference in the production of edible fruit there is now that the honey bee's are here. Three weeks ago I had nothing, just flowers no fruit. Now I have tomato plants toppling over from the weight of all the fruit it bears, along with squash the size of my forearm. It just goes to show you the importance of having bee's in the world, for with out them we'd starve.
Now for my latest project. I am still working towards having a working propagation nursery here on my Urban farm. The lavenders are all lined out and are growing out nicely. Yet, I still feel that somethings missing. Their is a lot of talk on CNN about the American economy, and how it is getting worse. It just makes me sick to my stomach when I see friends and family losing jobs and their homes because of bad management of American Funds. I guess we can all share in the blame. Still I can't sit here and do nothing, watching the news doesn't help either. It is up to us, the little people, those of us who think radically and outside the box who will lead the forefront in rejuvenating this economy. I will not rest until I do my part in achieving this goal. I will create my own stimulus package. Instead of being part of the problem I will focus on being part of the solution. I have been in open conversations with a few nursery growers that I have had the pleasure of working with in the past and I have come to realize in one of those conversations that this blog was missing something. What I have decided to do is add a link that will direct you to my online store which is currently under consturction and will be found in the next couple of weeks on the upper left corner of this Blog page, titled "The Sustainable On line Store". There you will find affordable garden plants to add value to your homes or to give away as gift. Creating the garden of your dreams doesn't have be expensive. Most DIYer's get their landscaping done on a budget, even though it may look like they spent hundreds on it. If you are a frugal gardener such as myself then you will love the deals on this page. If however, their is a special plant or shrub you can't located or you haven't purchased one because the price is to high, drop me a comment and I will see if I can get it listed on my web page at a more economical price. As always trying to keep it green on a modest buget. And again this will be a work in progress stay tuned and look for the Link.
It's almost the middle of August and summer will be taking its' hiatus and fall will soon be taking its place. Soon the trees will being to change color and the day's will be getting shorter and nights longer. In its wake of summer's end their will be remnants of something which was grown on this urban farm. I will fill my compost bins full of decaying matter for next years vegetable production. Yet their is still time to plant a fall crop to harvest later on this season. A planting of lettuce, broccoli, garlic and any other cold crop can be planted before this winter sets in. The chickens are doing great as always. Their in full laying mode, and they are loving their new home. This is the hens second summer with us and they have given us a good amount of eggs this summer more than we are able to eat. So I will be giving some away to friends and neighbors to share in our reaping.
Since the arrival of the bee's I finally have fruit on my plants. The tomatoes, squash and cucumbers have all given me a production of nice sized fruit. All this has been made possible because I decided to maintain a bee hive on my property. I can't believe how much of a difference in the production of edible fruit there is now that the honey bee's are here. Three weeks ago I had nothing, just flowers no fruit. Now I have tomato plants toppling over from the weight of all the fruit it bears, along with squash the size of my forearm. It just goes to show you the importance of having bee's in the world, for with out them we'd starve.
Now for my latest project. I am still working towards having a working propagation nursery here on my Urban farm. The lavenders are all lined out and are growing out nicely. Yet, I still feel that somethings missing. Their is a lot of talk on CNN about the American economy, and how it is getting worse. It just makes me sick to my stomach when I see friends and family losing jobs and their homes because of bad management of American Funds. I guess we can all share in the blame. Still I can't sit here and do nothing, watching the news doesn't help either. It is up to us, the little people, those of us who think radically and outside the box who will lead the forefront in rejuvenating this economy. I will not rest until I do my part in achieving this goal. I will create my own stimulus package. Instead of being part of the problem I will focus on being part of the solution. I have been in open conversations with a few nursery growers that I have had the pleasure of working with in the past and I have come to realize in one of those conversations that this blog was missing something. What I have decided to do is add a link that will direct you to my online store which is currently under consturction and will be found in the next couple of weeks on the upper left corner of this Blog page, titled "The Sustainable On line Store". There you will find affordable garden plants to add value to your homes or to give away as gift. Creating the garden of your dreams doesn't have be expensive. Most DIYer's get their landscaping done on a budget, even though it may look like they spent hundreds on it. If you are a frugal gardener such as myself then you will love the deals on this page. If however, their is a special plant or shrub you can't located or you haven't purchased one because the price is to high, drop me a comment and I will see if I can get it listed on my web page at a more economical price. As always trying to keep it green on a modest buget. And again this will be a work in progress stay tuned and look for the Link.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Sustainable Buzz
I can't believe it, they are finally here, my urban farm yard is complete. My wife and I drove to Summit New Jersey, to pay a visit to Patrica and Alex's bee yard. I have to admit I was very much impressed to see the amount of hives they currently maintained on their property. There had to be at least 20 hives which I think I managed to count, I may have missed a few because I felt like a kid in a candy store. What impressed me the most is how calm the bee's were. The honey bee's did not seemed bothered by our presence. They just kept buzzing in and out of the bee yard foraging for nectar and pollen. Everywhere we looked a sea of flowers. Patrica's home is landscaped from corner to corner in an assortment of blooming purple and white wild flowers, vegetable plants and grape vines. It resembles a country cottage, the kind you would see on a Hallmark card.
As my wife and I sat there, we observed as the honey bee's buzzed by, not once did we feel threaten by their presence, it was almost zen, peaceful. I watch as my wife sat there as clam and could be. Not once did she go running through the hills like some mad women. You need to understand that my wife has an extreme fear of insects. However, I was pleasantly surprised at her stillness, as we both watched the bee's in their natural state.
A few minutes later Alex arrived, as he walked up to the porch he greeted us as if he known us forever. He's a most pleasant individual, he took his time with us, explaining and giving us his take on beekeeping, then he asked me what type of bee's I wanted. He asked, "Black or Orange?" Of course I said, "What......?" He repeated himself, "Black of Orange?" Then I realized he was asking me if I preferred a dark color body type to light color body type. Since I didn't want to look completely stupid, I went for the Orange color body type, because this the only bee type I know, which is the Italian bee. He said, "Good, get your box". As I went back to our car to retrieve the my hive box I could help but be full of gitty excitement, then Alex led both of us, my wife and I, to the bee yard.
My wife stood about 12 feet away, just in case she needed to run, smart woman, my wife. Yes, now that's the wife I know, I knew her stillness would not last long, it was just a matter of time. I on the other hand, had a front row seat smack in the middle of Alex's bee yard. Alex asked me to open my hive box, as he lit his smoker. He then puffed some smoke into a nuc box which contained the orange bodied bee's which I had requested. (The Italians) My back was turned to him as I opened my hive box to receive the bee's, so I was a bit distracted. Then I realized I was now surrounded by massive amounts of buzzing bee's flying passed my head and I had no bee suite or veil. I should have been running down the street as a mad man. But some how Alex seem to be as calm as a cucumber as he picked up a frame he then began to point out the worker bee's and the larva. He pointed out young bee's to distinguish them from the older ones. Next he picked up another frame pointed out the Queen. I have to admit this whole experience was extremely cool. To be that close to bee's without getting stung, well that was truly amazing. His peaceful manner in handling the bee's made me feel safe, therefore I was as calm as he was. He then placed all four frames into my hive box puffed more smoke into the hive and soon all the bee's settled into their new home.
I have to admit I was pretty excite about the whole process. As Alex help me place the hive in the car, I could not help but to think, "I hope I can maintain these bee's as well as Alex has done". I thanked Alex for his hospitality, we shook hands and said I would keep in touch. As I sat in the car my wife gave me a glance, as a reminder that we have a car full of bee's in our back seat. We looked at each other without saying a word, we both were thinking the same thing, "What were we thinking!" We laughed, and said, "Well lets take the little one's home!" And so begins our first attempt towards a sustainable honey production.
So I want to take the opportunity to thank both of you, Alex and Patrica, for your time and for making this beekeeping adventure possible. For without both of you this could never have been possible. Thank you again.
We had arrived at their home earlier than expected, it was a pleasant drive from Staten Island. Patrica greeted us with the utmost hospitality and was very gracious. She gave us a tour of their garden and then showed us through their bee yard. She told us what she knew of about the bee's but then explained it was her husband Alex which is the gardener and beekeeper, she chuckled and said comically, "Every time I come home, I don't know what else to expected, as Alex keeps bring something new home!" She's then invited us to sit on their porch while we awaited the arrival of her husband Alex.
As my wife and I sat there, we observed as the honey bee's buzzed by, not once did we feel threaten by their presence, it was almost zen, peaceful. I watch as my wife sat there as clam and could be. Not once did she go running through the hills like some mad women. You need to understand that my wife has an extreme fear of insects. However, I was pleasantly surprised at her stillness, as we both watched the bee's in their natural state.
A few minutes later Alex arrived, as he walked up to the porch he greeted us as if he known us forever. He's a most pleasant individual, he took his time with us, explaining and giving us his take on beekeeping, then he asked me what type of bee's I wanted. He asked, "Black or Orange?" Of course I said, "What......?" He repeated himself, "Black of Orange?" Then I realized he was asking me if I preferred a dark color body type to light color body type. Since I didn't want to look completely stupid, I went for the Orange color body type, because this the only bee type I know, which is the Italian bee. He said, "Good, get your box". As I went back to our car to retrieve the my hive box I could help but be full of gitty excitement, then Alex led both of us, my wife and I, to the bee yard.
My wife stood about 12 feet away, just in case she needed to run, smart woman, my wife. Yes, now that's the wife I know, I knew her stillness would not last long, it was just a matter of time. I on the other hand, had a front row seat smack in the middle of Alex's bee yard. Alex asked me to open my hive box, as he lit his smoker. He then puffed some smoke into a nuc box which contained the orange bodied bee's which I had requested. (The Italians) My back was turned to him as I opened my hive box to receive the bee's, so I was a bit distracted. Then I realized I was now surrounded by massive amounts of buzzing bee's flying passed my head and I had no bee suite or veil. I should have been running down the street as a mad man. But some how Alex seem to be as calm as a cucumber as he picked up a frame he then began to point out the worker bee's and the larva. He pointed out young bee's to distinguish them from the older ones. Next he picked up another frame pointed out the Queen. I have to admit this whole experience was extremely cool. To be that close to bee's without getting stung, well that was truly amazing. His peaceful manner in handling the bee's made me feel safe, therefore I was as calm as he was. He then placed all four frames into my hive box puffed more smoke into the hive and soon all the bee's settled into their new home.
I have to admit I was pretty excite about the whole process. As Alex help me place the hive in the car, I could not help but to think, "I hope I can maintain these bee's as well as Alex has done". I thanked Alex for his hospitality, we shook hands and said I would keep in touch. As I sat in the car my wife gave me a glance, as a reminder that we have a car full of bee's in our back seat. We looked at each other without saying a word, we both were thinking the same thing, "What were we thinking!" We laughed, and said, "Well lets take the little one's home!" And so begins our first attempt towards a sustainable honey production.
So I want to take the opportunity to thank both of you, Alex and Patrica, for your time and for making this beekeeping adventure possible. For without both of you this could never have been possible. Thank you again.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Sustainable Partnerships.
I finally received my bee hives in the mail. The first hive I purchased through Clear Branch Bee Supply, it is my first starter hive, I am pleased with the quality, construction and speed in which it was delivered to me. I made a few Modifications to this hive in order to use it as my transporting box when I purchase the nuc later this week. However it looks like I will many year of use from this hive, will be ordering more from them. I put it together with the help of my 5 year old niece, who insisted on helping me. So what would have taken me and hour and a half to finish, took me six hours with her help, but who could say no to an eagar beaver like my niece. She's such a curious George that one. Having to stop and explain every step in the process of building the hive, why bees live in a box, how many live in the box and when we would collect the honey! Her curiosity is why I always allow her to participate these kind of projects. Her interest in these projects will enabler to gain a love and respect for nature at any early age, and hopefully through her life. She has already asked me to order her a bee suite, so that we have it ready for her, when she helps me to harvest honey. Theirs just one problem, I don't even have the bee's yet!
The other standard Langstroth type hive was order through Evens cedar bee hives. Evens Cedar bee hives manufactures its hives using cedar wood. When it arrived in the mail I was very much pleased by the quality, materials and the cedar fragrance coming from the hive boxes. Besides the quality of their product, I also learned that Ryan Evens uses the proceeds of the sales of his hives to support the following causes. Evens Cedar Bee hives causes they support. If your looking to purchase a bee hive with the added benefit of having your purchase benefit someone in need, please feel free to check out his site you wont be disappointed.
Still my favorite site is world of beekeeping, Ron Upshaw and his collaborator Shawn have created an all in one website. Their is enough information on this site to keep a hobby beekeeper well informed and it is ever changing and evolving. It has a forum where like individuals with a passion for beekeeping can share their ideas, success and failer in this hobby. Ron and Shawn have created a beginners DVD for those considering beekeeping as a hobby which is available through their site, and they also have a second DVD to compliment their first, ready for release. If you have ever been curious about beekeeping give their website a try.
Starting this bee project takes me one step closer to accomplishing the goal of sustainability. Being able to produce my very own raw honey is the best outcome of this project. It also creates bee habitat that will benefit both the Eco system and the fruit production in my vegetable garden and that of my neighbors as well. Hopefully I will be successful in this current endeavor, understanding that bee's are not pets, they a wild creatures and answer to no one but their Queen. I am just a keeper, that has been allowed to participate in their daily activities. Hopefully it will be a successful partnership between the bee's and I, where both will benefit.
The other standard Langstroth type hive was order through Evens cedar bee hives. Evens Cedar bee hives manufactures its hives using cedar wood. When it arrived in the mail I was very much pleased by the quality, materials and the cedar fragrance coming from the hive boxes. Besides the quality of their product, I also learned that Ryan Evens uses the proceeds of the sales of his hives to support the following causes. Evens Cedar Bee hives causes they support. If your looking to purchase a bee hive with the added benefit of having your purchase benefit someone in need, please feel free to check out his site you wont be disappointed.
Still my favorite site is world of beekeeping, Ron Upshaw and his collaborator Shawn have created an all in one website. Their is enough information on this site to keep a hobby beekeeper well informed and it is ever changing and evolving. It has a forum where like individuals with a passion for beekeeping can share their ideas, success and failer in this hobby. Ron and Shawn have created a beginners DVD for those considering beekeeping as a hobby which is available through their site, and they also have a second DVD to compliment their first, ready for release. If you have ever been curious about beekeeping give their website a try.
Starting this bee project takes me one step closer to accomplishing the goal of sustainability. Being able to produce my very own raw honey is the best outcome of this project. It also creates bee habitat that will benefit both the Eco system and the fruit production in my vegetable garden and that of my neighbors as well. Hopefully I will be successful in this current endeavor, understanding that bee's are not pets, they a wild creatures and answer to no one but their Queen. I am just a keeper, that has been allowed to participate in their daily activities. Hopefully it will be a successful partnership between the bee's and I, where both will benefit.
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