Did you know that when you recycle plastic it isn't really being recycled?
Plastic can never really be recycled. To recycle means to use again, make the plastic bottle into another reusable bottle that eliminates the use of virgin materials. Meaning that instead of using new materials to create a new bottle they are reusing the recycled plastic to recreate bottles instead of making more plastic and more waste; this is not what happens. Some plastics are remade into things like parking lot bumpers, textiles, and plastic lumber, which are not recyclable at all.
Many people don't even recycle, but if you are one of those who do (Hurray for you!!!) there are only certain codes that each facility accepts. The chasing arrows symbol with the number inside does not necessarily mean that your local facility will accept that type of plastic. The chasing arrows symbol on plastic doesn't even mean it is recyclable at all. The only important part is the number inside, which represents the types of materials, or resin, they use to create that kind of plastic. When you recycle the plastic the facility has to go through and sort all of the plastics into what they take and what they don't.
Many of the plastics are still not taken at facilities and end up in landfills anyway. Because of the misconceptions about plastic and recycling many people still buy more plastic then they need to because they figure they are recycling it so it is okay because it's not going to the landfill. This is wrong. Plastics are not recycled into plastic containers, virgin materials and resources are always used. The amount of energy and materials it takes to make a plastic container is the same amount as if a glass container was made and glass can be recycled. Making a glass container from recycled materials takes even less energy than making a plastic container from the only source of virgin materials.
So next time you have something plastic in your hand consider the effect you are really having on the environment. Plastic is made from nonrenewable resources. The plastic recycling facilities don't even pay for the ads we see on tv and other places, virgin plastic manufacturers do. The more plastic we buy and recycle, thinking we're doing the right thing, the more plastic they can produce!
Try to buy things that use less plastic, have less packaging, buy in bulk, buy glass instead, buy something that can be reusable, and/or buy things that are already in recyclable containers.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Borax
Our family tries to do what it can to be green and live healthy for ourselves and the environment. The two actually go so hand in hand. We really want to use as few chemicals as we can for the health of our children which is also less harmful for the environment.
I have seen many people talk about making their own cleaners, dishsoaps, laundry soaps, all types of personal and household cleaners. For many of the household cleaners - dishwasher soap I know for sure- people will tell you to use Borax.
Originally I followed their lead and bought the Borax and started using it in my dishwasher too. I was skeptical though after reading some of the articles. I had never heard of borax before so instead of rushing out and buying it, I decided to google it first to find out what exactly it was. Some articles said that you should make sure it is completely rinsed off whatever you use before you come in contact with it. So, if I were to use it in my dishwasher I want to make sure there is no trace left on it before I eat off the dish. This to me does not sound safe. It doesn't sound safe for me let alone my children's little bodies. I did; however, try it in my dishwasher for a couple weeks but I weakened it by using mostly baking soda and a little borax and then putting vinegar in the rinse aid part. The vinegar though somehow weakened the seal on the dishwasher and then leaked all over the floor... great...
Anyway, you really shouldn't even have borax in your house. Especially not in anyplace where the little ones can get their hands on it. Besides being an irritant and hormone disrupter, this stuff can kill rats. Do you really wanna take the chance using it as a cleaner around your kids?
I have seen many people talk about making their own cleaners, dishsoaps, laundry soaps, all types of personal and household cleaners. For many of the household cleaners - dishwasher soap I know for sure- people will tell you to use Borax.
Originally I followed their lead and bought the Borax and started using it in my dishwasher too. I was skeptical though after reading some of the articles. I had never heard of borax before so instead of rushing out and buying it, I decided to google it first to find out what exactly it was. Some articles said that you should make sure it is completely rinsed off whatever you use before you come in contact with it. So, if I were to use it in my dishwasher I want to make sure there is no trace left on it before I eat off the dish. This to me does not sound safe. It doesn't sound safe for me let alone my children's little bodies. I did; however, try it in my dishwasher for a couple weeks but I weakened it by using mostly baking soda and a little borax and then putting vinegar in the rinse aid part. The vinegar though somehow weakened the seal on the dishwasher and then leaked all over the floor... great...
Anyway, you really shouldn't even have borax in your house. Especially not in anyplace where the little ones can get their hands on it. Besides being an irritant and hormone disrupter, this stuff can kill rats. Do you really wanna take the chance using it as a cleaner around your kids?
Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market
Yesterday we visited Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market for the first time in Gloversville. If you are looking for a market that sells local farm raised produce and meat this is your place. I have heard of the Honest Weight Food Coop in Albany a couple times and have been meaning to get there, but driving all the way to Albany to grocery shop isn't ideal with a family and a busy schedule.
At Mohawk Harvest all of the produce was organic; the meat was free range, vegetarian fed; there were local organic eggs and milk (glass bottles that you returned with a deposit so no more waste - he said they also had coffee that ran on a similar system). There were cookies, granola, jams and jellies, syrups, honeys, butter, many things all from local farms.
I do believe the gentleman's name was Chris, an extremely friendly and helpful fellow. Any questions we had, he was more than happy to answer. He gets his stuff from local farms and tries to be as organic as possible. I believe he said all the produce and perishables in the store at that time were completely organic and the stuff on the shelves was about 1/3 organic.
A man from a local Amsterdam farm was doing organic oil tasting. He had a small table in the back set up with slices of bread on it and some dipping oils.
I am extremely happy that I stumbled upon the Mohawk Harvest Coop link one day while surfing the net. We bought a few things of meat (bison and elk - two of the many different kinds of meat he sold - there was also more normal things like beef and chicken) and some produce. I am eager to go back planning another trip later in the week.
At Mohawk Harvest all of the produce was organic; the meat was free range, vegetarian fed; there were local organic eggs and milk (glass bottles that you returned with a deposit so no more waste - he said they also had coffee that ran on a similar system). There were cookies, granola, jams and jellies, syrups, honeys, butter, many things all from local farms.
I do believe the gentleman's name was Chris, an extremely friendly and helpful fellow. Any questions we had, he was more than happy to answer. He gets his stuff from local farms and tries to be as organic as possible. I believe he said all the produce and perishables in the store at that time were completely organic and the stuff on the shelves was about 1/3 organic.
A man from a local Amsterdam farm was doing organic oil tasting. He had a small table in the back set up with slices of bread on it and some dipping oils.
I am extremely happy that I stumbled upon the Mohawk Harvest Coop link one day while surfing the net. We bought a few things of meat (bison and elk - two of the many different kinds of meat he sold - there was also more normal things like beef and chicken) and some produce. I am eager to go back planning another trip later in the week.
Walmart Deli
For $10.00 at Walmart you can get a big bucket of food. You get to pick 3 things from their premade foods (chicken wings, Ranch chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, jalapeno poppers, popcorn chicken, onion rings, potato wedges, chicken strips, general gso's chicken). They have also let us split something; ie, half poppers half mozz sticks instead of all mozz sticks for one of your three choices. It's not the healthiest food, not even close, but for $10.00 it's definitely a bargain. I haven't tried everything but I would recommend the general gso's chicken; it's all white tender chicken breast meat that's lightly breaded and the sauce is tasty too.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Disgruntled with Gerber
I bought a package of Gerber arrowroot cookies for my little one who loves to eat. I open the package and glance at the ingredients "high fructose corn syrup". Really?!?? I was pretty upset. I suppose I should have checked the package better before buying it. I'm not even sure what other chemicals they have loaded in there. I didn't get past the high fructose corn syrup jumping off the bag at me.
Seriously, you can buy bread that announces in big letters across the front "No High Fructose Corn Syrup". So many things are proudly putting that on their labels; soup, broth, juice, and syrup to name a few. This is baby food we're talking about!! Their little systems can't process the chemicals the way we can, not that we should even be eating it either.
Gerber is supposed to be one of the, if not the, leading baby food company. This was very dissappointing for me. I must say though, I'm not that surprised. When all the BPA in plastic was coming out in the open, Gerber was using a number 7 plastic. I had to throw all of my Gerber sippy cups and plastics out. I don't even buy Gerber baby food because it comes in plastic and is not marked with a code. I was too skeptical that they had something to hide and I would just prefer to buy a glass jar.
Seriously, you can buy bread that announces in big letters across the front "No High Fructose Corn Syrup". So many things are proudly putting that on their labels; soup, broth, juice, and syrup to name a few. This is baby food we're talking about!! Their little systems can't process the chemicals the way we can, not that we should even be eating it either.
Gerber is supposed to be one of the, if not the, leading baby food company. This was very dissappointing for me. I must say though, I'm not that surprised. When all the BPA in plastic was coming out in the open, Gerber was using a number 7 plastic. I had to throw all of my Gerber sippy cups and plastics out. I don't even buy Gerber baby food because it comes in plastic and is not marked with a code. I was too skeptical that they had something to hide and I would just prefer to buy a glass jar.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Tree Paad
A few weeks ago we visited Tree Paad in Malta for the first time and LOVED it. The place came highly recommended by a friend of mine. My daughter had so much fun there. She was a bit disappointed that she couldn't go on all the stuff. They had gates up on the bouncy Colesium and the spiderzone so she thought they were closed- really it cost extra to go on it, and we weren't paying, so we let her believe they were closed. It really should be pay one price go on all. My only complaint was the food was a little pricey and really not that great. However, she had a lot of fun, we stayed for hours, even my youngest was able to play a bit.
Because she had so much fun we took her and a friend there this past weekend. It was her best friend's birthday so we wanted to take them somewhere special.
We first took them to Hibachi in Malta (service there was unbelievable!! Best service I have ever had anywhere. They were super friendly to the children. Phenomenal!) which was not a big hit. If you have never taken your children to hibachi before, it may be a good idea to warn them about the fire before hand. My daughter's friend was petrified when they set the grill on fire and it took her until he was done cooking and we had started eating to fully recover.
After Hibachi we took them to Tree Paad. They were both disappointed they couldn't go on the above mentioned things (Colesium and spiderzone), my daughter more so. She even stood in line for the rock climbing wall until it was her turn and they told her she couldn't go on. They did love the tree fort though. They both had a blast, my daughter's friend more - she didn't want to leave.
We were thoroughly disappointed with the service there. Last time we went I read a sign that said no outside food except for birthday cake allowed. We brought a birthday cake for her friend's birthday and a present and called the girls over. My husband forgot the candle in the car so he went to ask the lady if they had an extra. She was very rude to him and told him that no outside food was allowed. He was in shock and said your really not going to let us sing to a five year old girl. She told him no to take the cake to the car immediately. She was so rude that my husband was upset, would not spend any more money there, and says we will never return. He said it wasn't even the fact we couldn't have the cake, it was the rude way she handled it.
Meanwhile there is a posted sign ten feet from this lady about birthday parties. It reads "No outside food allowed - except a cake."<- Quote taken from their site. My husband was infuriated by this. If you don't pay $239+ for their birthday party you can't bring your own cake. So now it's really just about money... sad...
Because she had so much fun we took her and a friend there this past weekend. It was her best friend's birthday so we wanted to take them somewhere special.
We first took them to Hibachi in Malta (service there was unbelievable!! Best service I have ever had anywhere. They were super friendly to the children. Phenomenal!) which was not a big hit. If you have never taken your children to hibachi before, it may be a good idea to warn them about the fire before hand. My daughter's friend was petrified when they set the grill on fire and it took her until he was done cooking and we had started eating to fully recover.
After Hibachi we took them to Tree Paad. They were both disappointed they couldn't go on the above mentioned things (Colesium and spiderzone), my daughter more so. She even stood in line for the rock climbing wall until it was her turn and they told her she couldn't go on. They did love the tree fort though. They both had a blast, my daughter's friend more - she didn't want to leave.
We were thoroughly disappointed with the service there. Last time we went I read a sign that said no outside food except for birthday cake allowed. We brought a birthday cake for her friend's birthday and a present and called the girls over. My husband forgot the candle in the car so he went to ask the lady if they had an extra. She was very rude to him and told him that no outside food was allowed. He was in shock and said your really not going to let us sing to a five year old girl. She told him no to take the cake to the car immediately. She was so rude that my husband was upset, would not spend any more money there, and says we will never return. He said it wasn't even the fact we couldn't have the cake, it was the rude way she handled it.
Meanwhile there is a posted sign ten feet from this lady about birthday parties. It reads "No outside food allowed - except a cake."<- Quote taken from their site. My husband was infuriated by this. If you don't pay $239+ for their birthday party you can't bring your own cake. So now it's really just about money... sad...
Friendly's
Today we went with friends to our local Friendly's in Johnstown. I have to say I was skeptical; the food is never that great, there is always that "Friendly's smell" when you walk in the door, and it's normally pricey. I was impressed.
There was still that "Friendly's smell" and the service was pretty slow (they were busy when we got there but it was still slow).
We had no idea, but Wednesdays is $1.99 kids meal days when you order off of Tier 1 on the kids menu. My daughter got a blue soda, 2 cheeseburger sliders, applesauce, pickles, and a make your own sundae all for $1.99 (she picked the flavor ice cream, and toppings - she got marshmallow, rainbow sprinkles, and m&m's - and it came with whipped cream and a cherry). Our waitress said they normally charge .99 cents extra for that sundae but she brought out one small scoop of ice cream and called it even. Her friend got a blue soda, cheese sticks, french fries, pickles, and a sundae with gummy bears and m&m's on it for just $1.99. Really?? How do you beat that??
Four of us ate there, got sodas and ice cream, all for $33.00 including tip. That's a bargain at today's prices!
We will definitely be visiting Friendly's again on a Wednesday!
Where ice cream makes the meal.. yeah yeah... I wanna go to Friendly's!!
There was still that "Friendly's smell" and the service was pretty slow (they were busy when we got there but it was still slow).
We had no idea, but Wednesdays is $1.99 kids meal days when you order off of Tier 1 on the kids menu. My daughter got a blue soda, 2 cheeseburger sliders, applesauce, pickles, and a make your own sundae all for $1.99 (she picked the flavor ice cream, and toppings - she got marshmallow, rainbow sprinkles, and m&m's - and it came with whipped cream and a cherry). Our waitress said they normally charge .99 cents extra for that sundae but she brought out one small scoop of ice cream and called it even. Her friend got a blue soda, cheese sticks, french fries, pickles, and a sundae with gummy bears and m&m's on it for just $1.99. Really?? How do you beat that??
Four of us ate there, got sodas and ice cream, all for $33.00 including tip. That's a bargain at today's prices!
We will definitely be visiting Friendly's again on a Wednesday!
Where ice cream makes the meal.. yeah yeah... I wanna go to Friendly's!!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day
This Valentine's Day I think it's important we all pause for a moment and think about what's really important, the beautiful gift that our Heavenly Father gave to us - our families. I am so thankful for my wonderful husband and my two amazing and beautiful precious little girls. Life is so much better since having them in it. So, instead of diamonds and wishful wantings for material objects this year, how about we all just pause and truly enjoy the day with our fantastic families.
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
February Break Happenings
UPDATE: New events posted in red: Sunday 2-20-11
Walter Elwood Museum has a morning camp for kids age 4+. $15/per day.
Maple Ski Ridge has skiing and snowboarding lessons all week long. They’re 90 minutes per day for 5 days for $75. Lessons do not include rentals or a mountain pass.
Sewing Sisters has several classes for mixed age groups during Presidents Week. Projects include hand warmers, flower corsages, and others, and the cost is $15 or $20 and up.
Clifton Park is having a Winter Wonderland camp for residents ages 5 to 10. It’s $40.
The Arts Center of the Capital Region in Troy has an Art Safari program for kids ages 6-11. It’s $200 for non-members, Monday-Friday. For the older set, there’s a Drawing, Painting & Pottery Workshop $270/non-member) or a multimedia design workshop for $255/non-member.
Afrim’s in Latham has Action Camps for ages 3-11. You can register for between 3 half days and 5 full days (with a range of prices). There’s also Jamaican Soccer Camp for ages 9-15, which is 9 am to noon each day with a cost of $125.
Albany Institute of History & Art has three days of Vacation Art Break from Tuesday through Thursday. Mornings are for 6- to 8-year-olds, and afternoons are for 9- to 11-year-olds. $20/class for non-members.
There’s a Kidzart-Drama Kids camp at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Colonie. It’s $210. Half-day and three-day options are available.
The Hyde Collection has Children’s Art Studio Vacation classes Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 12:30 pm. It’s for grades 2 to 6, and the fee is $30/non-member per 2-day session
The Flurry 2/18/2011-2/20/2011- A celebration of traditional dancing and music. Over 300 Performers - Six Venues - Over 250 Events.
19 Saturday
• Winter Fest 2011
An indoor celebration of winter in New York with educational hands-on activities and talks for all ages. Find out how cold temperatures affect the geology, economy, biology, and history of our state, noon-4 p.m. New
York State Museum, Albany. Free. 474-5877. www.nysm.nysed.gov.
• Family Fun Weekend
Visitors can make-and-take a craft and enjoy exciting scavenger hunts to discover artifacts and specimens throughout the museum, 1-4 p.m. Sunday. New York State Museum, Albany. Free. 474-5877. www.nysm.nysed.gov.
• Vet for a Day
Students will get to assist a vet with a physical exam of a dog, read X-rays, help with diagnoses and get a behind-the-scenes tour, 1-3 p.m. For students in grades 3 to 8. Enroll early; cost is $25 per child. Held at the Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Ave., Scotia. Call 374-3944, ext. 119, for reservations and information.
• Snow Birds
Hike through the Pine Bush and discover what birds are active in the winter and the resources they rely on. Program concludes with a bird feeder craft to take home, 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Little Wonders of Science:
Snowflake Bentley
Introduce children ages 3 to 5 to the wonders of science with Snowflake Bentley and a fun craft, 11 a.m.-noon. Advance registrants receive a free book and materials to continue the study of science at home. Free with museum admission: $5-$7.50. Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium. For information, call 382-7890 or visit www.SchenectadyMuseum.org.
20 Sunday
• Theatre des Petites Ames presents ‘Pekka’
Also Monday. Pekka is a tiny turtle who every night impatiently awaits her bedtime story. Her story is told by a narrator with the help of a cast of small puppets. The show lasts 30 minutes and is intended for children between the ages of 2 and 5. Performances at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday; and 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
21 Monday
• PJ Story Time
Diane Payette, local performer and educator presents quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, ages 2-6. Pajamas encouraged, 5:45 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. in the Children’s Library upstairs. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For information, call 371-8622.
• Hunger Games: Will You Survive?
Archery, camouflage, survival skills, trivia and prizes, with the program theme the book by Suzanne Collins, 3 p.m. For grade 6 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• Monday Night at the Movies
Watch “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (PG-13), 7 p.m. For teens and adults. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• GPS Adventure
Search for hidden objects using a handheld GPS unit that will help you navigate the trails, 1-2:30 p.m. GPS units are provided. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
Walter Elwood Museum has a morning camp for kids age 4+. $15/per day.
Maple Ski Ridge has skiing and snowboarding lessons all week long. They’re 90 minutes per day for 5 days for $75. Lessons do not include rentals or a mountain pass.
Sewing Sisters has several classes for mixed age groups during Presidents Week. Projects include hand warmers, flower corsages, and others, and the cost is $15 or $20 and up.
Clifton Park is having a Winter Wonderland camp for residents ages 5 to 10. It’s $40.
The Arts Center of the Capital Region in Troy has an Art Safari program for kids ages 6-11. It’s $200 for non-members, Monday-Friday. For the older set, there’s a Drawing, Painting & Pottery Workshop $270/non-member) or a multimedia design workshop for $255/non-member.
Afrim’s in Latham has Action Camps for ages 3-11. You can register for between 3 half days and 5 full days (with a range of prices). There’s also Jamaican Soccer Camp for ages 9-15, which is 9 am to noon each day with a cost of $125.
Albany Institute of History & Art has three days of Vacation Art Break from Tuesday through Thursday. Mornings are for 6- to 8-year-olds, and afternoons are for 9- to 11-year-olds. $20/class for non-members.
There’s a Kidzart-Drama Kids camp at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Colonie. It’s $210. Half-day and three-day options are available.
The Hyde Collection has Children’s Art Studio Vacation classes Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 12:30 pm. It’s for grades 2 to 6, and the fee is $30/non-member per 2-day session
The Flurry 2/18/2011-2/20/2011- A celebration of traditional dancing and music. Over 300 Performers - Six Venues - Over 250 Events.
Schenectady Museum and Planetarium-
Museum: Thursday 2/24- Sunday 2/27: Enjoy special hands-on activities during February Break at the Schenectady Museum!-FREE with Museum admission.
Planetarium: Thursday 2/24- Sunday 2/27: 1PM: The Sky Above Mister Rogers' Neighborhood; 2PM: Light Years from Andromeda; 3PM: Seasonal Sky Tour.- Museum admission plus $4
Tuesday, February 22, 2011 until Friday, February 25, 2011 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM- Thacher State Park- Don't let cabin fever set in. Bring the kids to the nature center for indoor and outdoor fun. We'll have snowshoeing, crafts, fun activities, and hot chocolate, too!
Fonda, Gloversville, Northville, and Collins Park all have ice skating open to the public. I have tried googling these to find out more information with not much success .
Northville, the Baptist Church of Northville's BCON Corner rink is open until 9 p.m. daily. It's located on the corner of Bridge and Main streets. Skates are available to borrow.
In Fonda, the village rink at the corner of Park and Bridge streets is open daily until 9 p.m.
Collins Park- Schenectady.
Gloversville- Littauer Field
In Fonda, the village rink at the corner of Park and Bridge streets is open daily until 9 p.m.
Collins Park- Schenectady.
Gloversville- Littauer Field
19 Saturday
• Winter Fest 2011
An indoor celebration of winter in New York with educational hands-on activities and talks for all ages. Find out how cold temperatures affect the geology, economy, biology, and history of our state, noon-4 p.m. New
York State Museum, Albany. Free. 474-5877. www.nysm.nysed.gov.
• Family Fun Weekend
Visitors can make-and-take a craft and enjoy exciting scavenger hunts to discover artifacts and specimens throughout the museum, 1-4 p.m. Sunday. New York State Museum, Albany. Free. 474-5877. www.nysm.nysed.gov.
• Vet for a Day
Students will get to assist a vet with a physical exam of a dog, read X-rays, help with diagnoses and get a behind-the-scenes tour, 1-3 p.m. For students in grades 3 to 8. Enroll early; cost is $25 per child. Held at the Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Ave., Scotia. Call 374-3944, ext. 119, for reservations and information.
• Snow Birds
Hike through the Pine Bush and discover what birds are active in the winter and the resources they rely on. Program concludes with a bird feeder craft to take home, 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Little Wonders of Science:
Snowflake Bentley
Introduce children ages 3 to 5 to the wonders of science with Snowflake Bentley and a fun craft, 11 a.m.-noon. Advance registrants receive a free book and materials to continue the study of science at home. Free with museum admission: $5-$7.50. Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium. For information, call 382-7890 or visit www.SchenectadyMuseum.org.
20 Sunday
• Theatre des Petites Ames presents ‘Pekka’
Also Monday. Pekka is a tiny turtle who every night impatiently awaits her bedtime story. Her story is told by a narrator with the help of a cast of small puppets. The show lasts 30 minutes and is intended for children between the ages of 2 and 5. Performances at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday; and 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
21 Monday
• PJ Story Time
Diane Payette, local performer and educator presents quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, ages 2-6. Pajamas encouraged, 5:45 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. in the Children’s Library upstairs. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For information, call 371-8622.
• Hunger Games: Will You Survive?
Archery, camouflage, survival skills, trivia and prizes, with the program theme the book by Suzanne Collins, 3 p.m. For grade 6 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• Monday Night at the Movies
Watch “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (PG-13), 7 p.m. For teens and adults. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• GPS Adventure
Search for hidden objects using a handheld GPS unit that will help you navigate the trails, 1-2:30 p.m. GPS units are provided. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Glowing Science Fun
Create secret messages, freeze a shadow of your hand and experiment with glowing putty all while learning about science, 1 p.m. For ages 5 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• City By Design
Explore zoning, communal resources, and construction of a city, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free with $6 admission. Suitable for ages 5 and up. Saratoga Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For information call 584-5540 or visit www.childrensmuseumatsaratoga.org.
Story time Amsterdam Library 10am.
22 Tuesday
• Sweet Science
Participants will learn about the science of candy as they experiment with Life Savers, make marshmallows explode and much more, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• The Scoop on Poop
Explore the Preserve in search of scat (also known as poop) and discover what animals live in the Pine Bush, 1-2:30 p.m. Bring water and appropriate clothing for hiking in winter. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Cloth Diapering 101: The Basics and Chemical Free Alternatives for Baby Care
Learn about all types of cloth diapering, as well as natural baby care products from Erin of Earthly Remedies, 6 p.m. St. Peter’s Hospital, 315 S. Manning Blvd., Albany. To register, contact Mary at 525-1388 or online at www.sphcs.org/events. Contact Vikki Casey-Ahmed, Owner/Operator Sonrise Diaper at 461-4293 for information.
• Ventriloquist Steve Charney
A one-man vaudeville show, Charney has been described as “a scholar of various types of lunacy” whose humor is “primitive, juvenile, and absolutely perfect.” Shows at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
10am -Family Yoga - no registration needed. For ages 2-7 - Colonie Town Library
6:30pm Stuffed animal & PJ story time. For ages 4-7 with an adult. Register in-person starting 1/31 - Colonie Town Library
11:15am Story Time Canajoharie Library
A&E The Lion King at Proctor's - Schenectady
10am-12, 1-3pm- Tuesday for Tots at the Saratoga Children's Museum.
23 Wednesday
• The Zucchini Brothers
Not your average bunch of vegetables, the Zucchinis are always get the crowd rockin’. Shows at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
• Learn How to Make Homemade Baby Food
When you make baby food yourself, there is nothing processed, no product recalls, and at pennies per serving there is a financial benefit, 9:30 a.m. Cost is $10. Held at the Wilton Fire Dept., 270 Ballard Road, Wilton. For information or to register call 581-8187 or log on to www.babysmartees.com.
• Rainbow Fairies Ball
Dress as your favorite fairy for dancing and crafts, 2:30 p.m. For ages 5-10 with family. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• CSI Pine Bush: Critter Scene Investigation
A 30-minute indoor introduction is followed by a 60 minute outdoor trek to look for clues and evidence of what lives in the Pine Bush, 10 a.m.-noon. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
10:30-11:30 am, it’s Pine Bush Pups: Dress Like an Animal at the Albany Pine Bush. It’s a free drop-in program for preschoolers.
• Kraazy Chemistry
Experiment with the chemistry in your kitchen and some of the cool things it can do. Make elephant toothpaste, Alka-seltzer rockets and more, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• Cooking Around the World
Cook up recipes from around the world. This month savor the flavors of China with some kid-friendly dishes, 3-4 p.m. Pre-registration and pre-payment required; for ages 3 and older. Cost is $10 per chef; drop-off optional. Saratoga Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For information call 584-5540 or visit www.childrensmuseumatsaratoga.org.
6:30pm Legends of the Guardians movie, register in-person starting 1/31- Colonie Town Library
11am-2pm - Guilderland Little Ceasar's- Free pizza
24 Thursday
• Is it Alive?
Come and explore how NASA scientists have tested for life on other planets and reproduce some of the tests for life that were completed during the search for life on Mars in the 1970s, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• FETCH! Lab: Rescue Mission
Also held Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Design a hook and retrieve a capsule submerged in water, 3-4:30 p.m. Free with museum admission: $5-$7.50. Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium. For information, call 382-7890 or visit www.SchenectadyMuseum.org.
• Magician Jim Snack
Magician and a master of sleight-of-hand brings everything he needs except an assistant – that’s where the audience comes in. Shows at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
• Movie Day: ‘Horton Hears a Who’
Horton the elephant stands by the motto that “a person is a person, no matter how small,” 1-3 p.m. Pre-registration is required, free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
10:30am Stuffed animal & PJ story time. For ages 4-7 with an adult. Register in-person starting 1/31- Colonie Town Library
6:30pm Uncle Brothers Family show. Register in-person starting 1/31- Colonie Town Library
KIDS CAN COOK!- SCHNECTADY COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY - 2:30 p.m. - Free interactive workshop for students in grades K-5. Seating is limited and registration is required.
10:30-11:30 am, it’s Pine Bush Pups: Dress Like an Animal at the Albany Pine Bush. It’s a free drop-in program for preschoolers.
Create secret messages, freeze a shadow of your hand and experiment with glowing putty all while learning about science, 1 p.m. For ages 5 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• City By Design
Explore zoning, communal resources, and construction of a city, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free with $6 admission. Suitable for ages 5 and up. Saratoga Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For information call 584-5540 or visit www.childrensmuseumatsaratoga.org.
Story time Amsterdam Library 10am.
22 Tuesday
• Sweet Science
Participants will learn about the science of candy as they experiment with Life Savers, make marshmallows explode and much more, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• The Scoop on Poop
Explore the Preserve in search of scat (also known as poop) and discover what animals live in the Pine Bush, 1-2:30 p.m. Bring water and appropriate clothing for hiking in winter. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Cloth Diapering 101: The Basics and Chemical Free Alternatives for Baby Care
Learn about all types of cloth diapering, as well as natural baby care products from Erin of Earthly Remedies, 6 p.m. St. Peter’s Hospital, 315 S. Manning Blvd., Albany. To register, contact Mary at 525-1388 or online at www.sphcs.org/events. Contact Vikki Casey-Ahmed, Owner/Operator Sonrise Diaper at 461-4293 for information.
• Ventriloquist Steve Charney
A one-man vaudeville show, Charney has been described as “a scholar of various types of lunacy” whose humor is “primitive, juvenile, and absolutely perfect.” Shows at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
10am -Family Yoga - no registration needed. For ages 2-7 - Colonie Town Library
6:30pm Stuffed animal & PJ story time. For ages 4-7 with an adult. Register in-person starting 1/31 - Colonie Town Library
11:15am Story Time Canajoharie Library
A&E The Lion King at Proctor's - Schenectady
10am-12, 1-3pm- Tuesday for Tots at the Saratoga Children's Museum.
2-3pm - Saratoga Spa State Park- Preschool Naturalists- a nature class designed for children ages 3 to 5. This hour long program will focus on using the senses to explore a certain aspect of the outdoor world. This program costs $3 per person or $5 per family. Please call to register.
6:30pm- Thacher State Park- Moonlit Snowshoe Hike
23 Wednesday
• The Zucchini Brothers
Not your average bunch of vegetables, the Zucchinis are always get the crowd rockin’. Shows at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
• Learn How to Make Homemade Baby Food
When you make baby food yourself, there is nothing processed, no product recalls, and at pennies per serving there is a financial benefit, 9:30 a.m. Cost is $10. Held at the Wilton Fire Dept., 270 Ballard Road, Wilton. For information or to register call 581-8187 or log on to www.babysmartees.com.
• Rainbow Fairies Ball
Dress as your favorite fairy for dancing and crafts, 2:30 p.m. For ages 5-10 with family. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• CSI Pine Bush: Critter Scene Investigation
A 30-minute indoor introduction is followed by a 60 minute outdoor trek to look for clues and evidence of what lives in the Pine Bush, 10 a.m.-noon. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
10:30-11:30 am, it’s Pine Bush Pups: Dress Like an Animal at the Albany Pine Bush. It’s a free drop-in program for preschoolers.
• Kraazy Chemistry
Experiment with the chemistry in your kitchen and some of the cool things it can do. Make elephant toothpaste, Alka-seltzer rockets and more, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• Cooking Around the World
Cook up recipes from around the world. This month savor the flavors of China with some kid-friendly dishes, 3-4 p.m. Pre-registration and pre-payment required; for ages 3 and older. Cost is $10 per chef; drop-off optional. Saratoga Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For information call 584-5540 or visit www.childrensmuseumatsaratoga.org.
6:30pm Legends of the Guardians movie, register in-person starting 1/31- Colonie Town Library
11am-2pm - Guilderland Little Ceasar's- Free pizza
24 Thursday
• Is it Alive?
Come and explore how NASA scientists have tested for life on other planets and reproduce some of the tests for life that were completed during the search for life on Mars in the 1970s, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required. Cost is $2 plus $5 general admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For information call 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.
• FETCH! Lab: Rescue Mission
Also held Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Design a hook and retrieve a capsule submerged in water, 3-4:30 p.m. Free with museum admission: $5-$7.50. Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium. For information, call 382-7890 or visit www.SchenectadyMuseum.org.
• Magician Jim Snack
Magician and a master of sleight-of-hand brings everything he needs except an assistant – that’s where the audience comes in. Shows at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
• Movie Day: ‘Horton Hears a Who’
Horton the elephant stands by the motto that “a person is a person, no matter how small,” 1-3 p.m. Pre-registration is required, free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
10:30am Stuffed animal & PJ story time. For ages 4-7 with an adult. Register in-person starting 1/31- Colonie Town Library
6:30pm Uncle Brothers Family show. Register in-person starting 1/31- Colonie Town Library
KIDS CAN COOK!- SCHNECTADY COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY - 2:30 p.m. - Free interactive workshop for students in grades K-5. Seating is limited and registration is required.
10:30-11:30 am, it’s Pine Bush Pups: Dress Like an Animal at the Albany Pine Bush. It’s a free drop-in program for preschoolers.
11am- Schenectady Museum- Snowflake Bentley- preschool program
25 Friday
• Pups on Snowshoes
Bring your 4-8 year olds for a slow-paced snowshoeing exploration. Snowshoes will be provided for everyone, 11 a.m.-noon. Registration is required for children only. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Puppet State Theater Company: ‘The Man Who Planted Trees’
A story that shows us the difference one man (and his dog!) can make to the world. Shows at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
• Movie Morning
Watch “Ramona and Beezus” (G, 103 minutes), 11 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• Sesame Street Live ‘Elmo’s Green Thumb’
Also Saturday and Sunday. Elmo and his friends explore Big Bird’s garden and learn some important lessons. Various times. Tickets cost $13-$24. The Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave., Albany. Call the box office at 465-4663 or go to www.palacealbany.com for information.
6pm- Gore Mountain- Full Moon Ski Bowl Party- $10 tubing or lift tickets! 2 hour tubing pass. Live entertainment from 6-8pm.
7pm- Albany Devils Game-“GE Kids-In-Free Day”. 12 and under free. 1 per adult paid ticket. Kids activities throughout the game and a free t-shirt.
26 Saturday
• Snow Dogs
Presented by Tundra Spirits Siberian Husky Rescue, this perennial family favorite returns for all husky lovers 6 years and older to meet some wonderful dogs in person and learn about this fascinating breed from the experts, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. Cost is $10 per person. Held at the Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Ave., Scotia. For reservations or information, call 374-3944, ext. 119.
10am Build and Grow at Lowe's
New York Museum - Albany- Family Fun Day- 1pm-4pm
27 Sunday
• Author Talk: Jackie Morse Kessler
Paranormal/fantasy writer reads from and talks about her young-adult novel “Hunger,” 6:30 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• Movie Day: ‘Free Willy’
When a boy learns that a beloved killer whale is to be killed by the aquarium owners, the boy risks everything to free the whale, 1-3 p.m. Rated PG. Pre-registration is required, free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
25 Friday
• Pups on Snowshoes
Bring your 4-8 year olds for a slow-paced snowshoeing exploration. Snowshoes will be provided for everyone, 11 a.m.-noon. Registration is required for children only. Cost is $3 per person/$5 per family; registration is required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
• Puppet State Theater Company: ‘The Man Who Planted Trees’
A story that shows us the difference one man (and his dog!) can make to the world. Shows at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For information call 438-5503.
• Movie Morning
Watch “Ramona and Beezus” (G, 103 minutes), 11 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• Sesame Street Live ‘Elmo’s Green Thumb’
Also Saturday and Sunday. Elmo and his friends explore Big Bird’s garden and learn some important lessons. Various times. Tickets cost $13-$24. The Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave., Albany. Call the box office at 465-4663 or go to www.palacealbany.com for information.
6pm- Gore Mountain- Full Moon Ski Bowl Party- $10 tubing or lift tickets! 2 hour tubing pass. Live entertainment from 6-8pm.
7pm- Albany Devils Game-“GE Kids-In-Free Day”. 12 and under free. 1 per adult paid ticket. Kids activities throughout the game and a free t-shirt.
26 Saturday
• Snow Dogs
Presented by Tundra Spirits Siberian Husky Rescue, this perennial family favorite returns for all husky lovers 6 years and older to meet some wonderful dogs in person and learn about this fascinating breed from the experts, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. Cost is $10 per person. Held at the Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Ave., Scotia. For reservations or information, call 374-3944, ext. 119.
10am Build and Grow at Lowe's
New York Museum - Albany- Family Fun Day- 1pm-4pm
27 Sunday
• Author Talk: Jackie Morse Kessler
Paranormal/fantasy writer reads from and talks about her young-adult novel “Hunger,” 6:30 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For information call 439-9314.
• Movie Day: ‘Free Willy’
When a boy learns that a beloved killer whale is to be killed by the aquarium owners, the boy risks everything to free the whale, 1-3 p.m. Rated PG. Pre-registration is required, free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For information call 456-0655.
Know of Local Family Events?? Please Help!
As I blogged about in my original post, one of the main reasons I started this blogspot was family events. I hate, hate, hate it when I find out about an event that my daughter would love to attend; and then find out it happened yesterday. A prime example: there was a princess tea party at the Amsterdam castle a couple years back, what girl wouldn't love to go to that?!? A receptionist at the doctor's office told me all about it and I was excited knowing she would love it; then she says, oh it was yesterday. Ugh.
I do my best to scan the local listings that I know about, but even that is not good. We still miss so much. So, if your like me and want to miss no more... let's pull together people and keep these kids busy and happy! I will post happening as I learn of them. There is an events section on the side of the main page here which lists a few links to the upcoming events. I can also post little blogs in here if you would all like. Feel free to message me at: amsterdammom@gmail.com if you know of anything I don't have posted or just leave a comment somewhere if that's easier for you. I know there is a lot more going on out here then I can find from my resources. I always here people talking of things they recently did, after they do them... frustrating...
I am working on pulling a list of things I know of going on for February break. Hopefully I get that posted tonight. Let's see how good the kids sleep. If not, it will be soon!
Please everyone help me out, if just for my sake! We are always looking for fun things to do. Let's all benefit!! Thanks in advance :o)
I do my best to scan the local listings that I know about, but even that is not good. We still miss so much. So, if your like me and want to miss no more... let's pull together people and keep these kids busy and happy! I will post happening as I learn of them. There is an events section on the side of the main page here which lists a few links to the upcoming events. I can also post little blogs in here if you would all like. Feel free to message me at: amsterdammom@gmail.com if you know of anything I don't have posted or just leave a comment somewhere if that's easier for you. I know there is a lot more going on out here then I can find from my resources. I always here people talking of things they recently did, after they do them... frustrating...
I am working on pulling a list of things I know of going on for February break. Hopefully I get that posted tonight. Let's see how good the kids sleep. If not, it will be soon!
Please everyone help me out, if just for my sake! We are always looking for fun things to do. Let's all benefit!! Thanks in advance :o)
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Valentine's Craft
For those of you who have creative kids who like to do arts and crafts, check this out:
http://www.parenting.com/gallery/valentines-day-cut-n-color-cards
Cute cards you can print and let your child go to town on!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Aspartame
While shopping last Saturday at Walmart an elderly gentleman approached my family and asked if we knew where the garbage bags were. I walked towards the end of the aisle scanning the aisle signs for garbage bags while my husband walked in the opposite direction showing the man where they really were.
We continued our shopping, ate at the deli area (which was surprisingly good.. perhaps a different post!) and then went back in the supermarket section for diet soda when we saw the same man.
I was walking away from the lady giving out samples with a sample cup of chocolate pudding in my hand, which I felt pretty guilty about grabbing because I'm trying to diet. My husband says to the man, "Any luck? Did you find them okay?" The man says yes and turns to me and asks what I'm eating. He wants to know if it's jello or yogurt? I say, "I think it's pudding? I got it from the lady right there giving out samples" as I put a spoonful in my daughter's now chocolate covered mouth.
"You know," he says, "I bought this yogurt the other day at the store because the nice looking lady on the TV told me too." My husband chuckles. "I get home," he continues, "and I'm looking at the ingredients and I see this (he pronounces it ass-per-ta-me four distinct syllables) aspartame. I look it up and did you know it causes cancer?!?" The guy is visibly upset by this and I guess is implying that I am probably eating aspartame as well. "You know what I do?" says the man. "I bought two six packs and I picked them both up and threw them right in the trash." My husband agrees with him about the aspartame and mentions that there are so many chemicals that are not regulated very well.
I continue eating the rest of my chocolate cup sharing with my daughter. Now I not only feeling guilty about taking the pudding because I'm counting calories, but I may also be eating aspartame. I never looked to see what I was eating or what was in it, but the man did have an impact on me. I did go home and research a bit more about ass-per-ta-me.
The ironic thing about all this is... I have always been very against diet soda and aspartame until last week, which was the second week into my diet. I joined the Dr. Oz 11 week challenge Move It and Lose It in 2011, and on this challenge you have to input everything you eat all day. You are limited to a certain amount of calories you can eat a day and it shows when you go over and how much weight your gaining etc. I never knew how many calories soda had, and they are all empty calories. Then hubby told me that diet soda had no calories, I was elated!! I had also recently heard that some artificial sweeteners in moderate quantities may be okay for you. So I was ignoring my better judgment and going for the diet soda.
Running into this man at Walmart made me realize that diet soda is really not worth putting my health and that of my families at risk for a controversial artificial sweetener. No, perhaps the FDA has not banned it yet, but I don't care. I don't want to wait the thirty years it may take them, as it did for DDT, and find out I've been feeding my family cancer all those years.
We continued our shopping, ate at the deli area (which was surprisingly good.. perhaps a different post!) and then went back in the supermarket section for diet soda when we saw the same man.
I was walking away from the lady giving out samples with a sample cup of chocolate pudding in my hand, which I felt pretty guilty about grabbing because I'm trying to diet. My husband says to the man, "Any luck? Did you find them okay?" The man says yes and turns to me and asks what I'm eating. He wants to know if it's jello or yogurt? I say, "I think it's pudding? I got it from the lady right there giving out samples" as I put a spoonful in my daughter's now chocolate covered mouth.
"You know," he says, "I bought this yogurt the other day at the store because the nice looking lady on the TV told me too." My husband chuckles. "I get home," he continues, "and I'm looking at the ingredients and I see this (he pronounces it ass-per-ta-me four distinct syllables) aspartame. I look it up and did you know it causes cancer?!?" The guy is visibly upset by this and I guess is implying that I am probably eating aspartame as well. "You know what I do?" says the man. "I bought two six packs and I picked them both up and threw them right in the trash." My husband agrees with him about the aspartame and mentions that there are so many chemicals that are not regulated very well.
I continue eating the rest of my chocolate cup sharing with my daughter. Now I not only feeling guilty about taking the pudding because I'm counting calories, but I may also be eating aspartame. I never looked to see what I was eating or what was in it, but the man did have an impact on me. I did go home and research a bit more about ass-per-ta-me.
The ironic thing about all this is... I have always been very against diet soda and aspartame until last week, which was the second week into my diet. I joined the Dr. Oz 11 week challenge Move It and Lose It in 2011, and on this challenge you have to input everything you eat all day. You are limited to a certain amount of calories you can eat a day and it shows when you go over and how much weight your gaining etc. I never knew how many calories soda had, and they are all empty calories. Then hubby told me that diet soda had no calories, I was elated!! I had also recently heard that some artificial sweeteners in moderate quantities may be okay for you. So I was ignoring my better judgment and going for the diet soda.
Running into this man at Walmart made me realize that diet soda is really not worth putting my health and that of my families at risk for a controversial artificial sweetener. No, perhaps the FDA has not banned it yet, but I don't care. I don't want to wait the thirty years it may take them, as it did for DDT, and find out I've been feeding my family cancer all those years.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Welcome to Moe's!
Did you know that on Sunday's you can get a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal?
Limit one kids meal per paying adult meal.
Plus Mondays you can get a burrito, chips, and soda for $6.
After publishing this initial post, I thought I should probably include some type of review as well.
My family enjoys going to Moe's. The food is pretty good and the prices are great for the food your getting.
Pros: Most of Moe's ingredients are freshly chopped vegetables, the tortilla shells are whole grain, and the beans are not from a can (which means no BPA! yay!). The ingredients are trans fat and MSG free.
Cons: I'm not sure if the rice is brown or white rice. The hot queso comes in a plastic cup. The soda machine is right by the bathroom. (e.coli, coliform bacteria, and other gross germs). The kids meal comes with a soda and there isn't really any substitutions.
The service here is alright. There are a couple of really friendly employees and a couple not so friendly employees, the rest just seem to be doing their job. I always find the employees to be very chatty amongst themselves, sometimes too chatty and one employee does all the work. A couple times a few employees have been sick, coughing all over, which is gross considering even if they cough into their elbow they are still spreading their sick germs into your food. Plus, there has been a couple instances where girls have long side ponytails hanging over their shoulders, I'd rather it up away from my food.
Overall though, I do enjoy going to Moe's and so does my family. My daughter loves to yell, "Welcome to Moe's" when we are talking about going there, when she wants to go there, or when we are there and someone new walks in the door. She gets a little upset when the employees don't yell it. And she always gets a free balloon!
Good semi-healthy food (beats McDonald's anyday) and you get way more for the price!
Limit one kids meal per paying adult meal.
Plus Mondays you can get a burrito, chips, and soda for $6.
After publishing this initial post, I thought I should probably include some type of review as well.
My family enjoys going to Moe's. The food is pretty good and the prices are great for the food your getting.
Pros: Most of Moe's ingredients are freshly chopped vegetables, the tortilla shells are whole grain, and the beans are not from a can (which means no BPA! yay!). The ingredients are trans fat and MSG free.
Cons: I'm not sure if the rice is brown or white rice. The hot queso comes in a plastic cup. The soda machine is right by the bathroom. (e.coli, coliform bacteria, and other gross germs). The kids meal comes with a soda and there isn't really any substitutions.
The service here is alright. There are a couple of really friendly employees and a couple not so friendly employees, the rest just seem to be doing their job. I always find the employees to be very chatty amongst themselves, sometimes too chatty and one employee does all the work. A couple times a few employees have been sick, coughing all over, which is gross considering even if they cough into their elbow they are still spreading their sick germs into your food. Plus, there has been a couple instances where girls have long side ponytails hanging over their shoulders, I'd rather it up away from my food.
Overall though, I do enjoy going to Moe's and so does my family. My daughter loves to yell, "Welcome to Moe's" when we are talking about going there, when she wants to go there, or when we are there and someone new walks in the door. She gets a little upset when the employees don't yell it. And she always gets a free balloon!
Good semi-healthy food (beats McDonald's anyday) and you get way more for the price!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Home Depot Kids Workshop
Today we attended our first ever Home Depot Kids Workshop and what fun it was!!
We arrived later in the morning, around 10:30am, and there were four other kids there making the project with their parent. Today's project was the heart shelf, one of their easier projects the girl in charge said. My child had no problem putting it together.
The girl who was watching over the crafts told me they normally get about forty children come through on an average month, some Saturdays they get more (in December they got about 72) and some less (last month about twenty).
The heart shelf took my daughter about twenty minutes to complete all by herself and she is just now five. I helped her a bit with the hammer, but she did most of that herself too! The finished project is unfinished wood and they don't provide the paints.
She did get a certificate when she was finished, a pin, and an apron to wear upon arrival which she got to take home.
Great quality time to spend with your child if your looking for something fun and free to do on a Saturday morning!!
Is it really love your giving?
Did you know lead was found in some of last year's Valentine's day teddy bears? Chocolates are filled with preservatives, added colors, high fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils and other additives. Flowers you get from the store can be covered in harmful pesticide residues. Flowers that are grown overseas do not have to follow the same guidelines as ones that are grown in the U.S. (Not that I'm sure the U.S. guidelines are that strict, look at all the stuff they let slide in our food and baby items...) There are organizations to look for that strictly control how the flowers are grown, some are: Veriflora, Florverde, Germany's Flower Label Program and Holland's MPS.
"Roses are red. Violets are blue. The very best gifts are those that don’t harm you."
This year perhaps you could say "I love you" with a homemade option, a DIY craft with your kids. Make a healthy dinner for the one you love with organic ingredients, take your Valentine to a restaurant that cooks with organic ingredients, invest in something healthier for your family in the house (organic bedding, organic groceries, or organic toiletries and cleaning supplies.) Buy some plants for indoors to better your indoor air quality. Join a CSA. Go to a movie, play in the snow, break out the board games. Ask your kids for some ideas and do things as a family. Isn't that what really matters? Being together with the ones you love?
Happy Valentine's Day!!
~Amsterdam Mom~
"Roses are red. Violets are blue. The very best gifts are those that don’t harm you."
This year perhaps you could say "I love you" with a homemade option, a DIY craft with your kids. Make a healthy dinner for the one you love with organic ingredients, take your Valentine to a restaurant that cooks with organic ingredients, invest in something healthier for your family in the house (organic bedding, organic groceries, or organic toiletries and cleaning supplies.) Buy some plants for indoors to better your indoor air quality. Join a CSA. Go to a movie, play in the snow, break out the board games. Ask your kids for some ideas and do things as a family. Isn't that what really matters? Being together with the ones you love?
Happy Valentine's Day!!
~Amsterdam Mom~
Friday, February 4, 2011
My journey begins!!!
Welcome to Amsterdam Mom!!
I am new to the blogging world. Everything about this is new to me. I don't know the lingo yet, haven't figured out layouts and coding yet.. in short, I have no idea what I am doing.
Here are my ideas though!!
I was thinking...
Wouldn't it be great if there were a webpage with all of MY ideas on it?!? ;)
I want one place where I can go to and find local family friendly events. Not just events for Schenectady or Albany or Saratoga. Events that includes all of these and AMSTERDAM!!! :) :)
I also thought it would be nice to have a page where you can go to find reviews about local places. Places where I went with my family that were awesome!!! and places that we went where we will never visit again. :( Ideally I am going to try and get these places alphabetized, but let me get familiar with blogging first.
Because I am passionate about my family's health I thought it would be nice to update you to health topics as well. Things like recalls, BPA in plastics, lead in jewelry, pthalates, parabens, cadmium, the list goes on and on and on and on... Perhaps I will put links to safer alternatives as I learn my way around.
I have found these things to be things I enjoy doing. Spending time with my family, traveling around, and getting my family healthier. I understand you may not be interested in them as I am so hopefully I can find a way to break these things into easily navigated sections.
I like to do arts and crafts as well so maybe I will even have a section for that.
Bear with me as I grow and learn in the blogging world. I'm open to suggestions and always looking for family friendly fun things to do and places to go. Feel free to contact me as we go on this journey together.
~Amsterdam Mom~
I am new to the blogging world. Everything about this is new to me. I don't know the lingo yet, haven't figured out layouts and coding yet.. in short, I have no idea what I am doing.
Here are my ideas though!!
I was thinking...
Wouldn't it be great if there were a webpage with all of MY ideas on it?!? ;)
I want one place where I can go to and find local family friendly events. Not just events for Schenectady or Albany or Saratoga. Events that includes all of these and AMSTERDAM!!! :) :)
I also thought it would be nice to have a page where you can go to find reviews about local places. Places where I went with my family that were awesome!!! and places that we went where we will never visit again. :( Ideally I am going to try and get these places alphabetized, but let me get familiar with blogging first.
Because I am passionate about my family's health I thought it would be nice to update you to health topics as well. Things like recalls, BPA in plastics, lead in jewelry, pthalates, parabens, cadmium, the list goes on and on and on and on... Perhaps I will put links to safer alternatives as I learn my way around.
I have found these things to be things I enjoy doing. Spending time with my family, traveling around, and getting my family healthier. I understand you may not be interested in them as I am so hopefully I can find a way to break these things into easily navigated sections.
I like to do arts and crafts as well so maybe I will even have a section for that.
Bear with me as I grow and learn in the blogging world. I'm open to suggestions and always looking for family friendly fun things to do and places to go. Feel free to contact me as we go on this journey together.
~Amsterdam Mom~
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