RockIt family had a relaxing long weekend, what a nice change! Everyone back in school and settling into their routines? And speaking of school, how do you and your teachers explain 9-11 to your children? The History Channel has a great documentary playing lately which helps explain 9-11 to younger children. There are artifcats and items at the Smithsonian that young children can relate to (cell phones, briefcases, fireman’s ax). Have you taught your children about 9-11? How are you going to remember it this week? Attending a memorial service? Watching a special?
NICE: Donate Books
Many children in your community don’t have access to books because of financial reasons, or because their families don’t value education. That’s why libraries are a great resource. Anyone can sign up for a library card and enjoy thousands of books for free. Donate your used books to your local library or an organization that provides books for children. Include a kind note if you wish.
GREEN: Plant a Fall Garden
It’s getting late in most of the country to plant a vegetable garden, but certain crops can thrive if planted late in the summer. Radishes, basil, mustard greens and spinach each take as little as one month to mature, and can survive light frost. Lettuce, Swiss chard, kale and collard greens take as few as 40 days, and the latter two can survive temperatures in the 20s. Beets and cabbage take as much as two months to mature, but can survive temperatures in the 20s. Garlic can be planted now for harvest next summer. For the How To’s on a Fall Garden, click here.
HEALTH: Tips for a Healthy Fall
Follow these tips to help you and stay in top health and be your best during the season and all year long:
Flu Shots – Check with your doctor or your local public health department to find out when the annual flu shot is available. If your doctor can give you the shot in the office combine it with a check-up. If your doctor does not give the shot check on local events for flu shot administration. Remember that the flu shot is recommended for all adults, especially those with a health condition such as diabetes or heart disease that makes them more at risk for the serious complications of the flu.
Exercise – Exercise is important all through the year, but can help you get in shape for the winter months. If you exercise by walking outdoors, it may be time to locate other places you can walk that are protected from harsh winter weather. Indoor shopping malls are great places to walk and often have walkers clubs that offer discounts. With the days getting colder, take a few extra minutes to warm up your body and stretch your muscles before you exercise. Also wear a handkerchief around your nose and mouth if it’s really cold to warm up the air before it enters your lungs.
Diet – Add all the fall vegetables to your diet. Many of the root vegetables are in season now and are an inexpensive and nutritious way to add variety to your diet.
Drink More Water – You can experience dehydration even during the winter. Dry central heat robs your body and skin of vital moisture. If you keep hydrated your mucous membranes also stay hydrated, working much more effectively to filter our disease causing organisms.
Sunscreen – Yes, even in the fall and winter months you should be thinking about sunscreen. If you’re a skier, don’t forget your sunscreen. The snow reflects the sun’s rays and can quickly burn your skin. Don’t let the cold temperatures fool you.
Second-Hand Smoke – Watch out for the effects of second-hand smoke. During cold weather, you may find yourself behind closed doors and windows with a smoker. Avoid inhaling smoke and check your home for proper ventilation.
Cold and Flu – Cover your face when you sneeze or cough, and wash your hands often to help stop the spread of the season’s cold and flu germs. Get a flu shot if you are 65 or older; or if you have a chronic disease of the heart, lungs or kidneys.
Hats and Gloves – Wear a hat and gloves when you go outside. The hat keeps warmth from escaping through the top of your head—a major source of body heat loss. And the gloves help prevent painful frostbite.
Fall allergies. Outdoor molds become plentiful in the fall in gutters, soil, vegetation, rotting wood and fallen leaves. You can reduce your exposure to Fall allergens. For example, avoid being outdoors in the morning hours between 5:00 and 10:00 a.m. when pollen dispersal is peaking.
Every mother wants to send their babies to school with a hot and healthy breakfast. Check out this crock pot recipe for Crock Pot Breakfast Casserole. You can change up the ingredients your family likes (bacon, sausage, peppers, onions, spinach, tomatos, etc.) Wake up and roll over to FOOD for Breakfast Casserole in the Crock Pot.