Domestic Goddesses's topics - tribe.net

xmas pressy for the homemaker

2009-06-24T10:47:47Z

a butler, a maid,a gardner, a nanny,and a good book to read while they are doing all the work,a glass of wine for hydraited,and wish to make this dream come true. PLEASE

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

My Father's Jacket...

2009-01-14T19:55:17Z

How do I get the smell of Cigarettes out of the jacket (my dad's a HEEEAAAVVVVYYY Smoker)? I have washed it several times in scented laundry soap, sprayed it w/my body spray, soaked it in Shout...still it stinks. What do i do? it's a winter pull over jacket--lighter than a parka.

What can I do?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

In-laws

2008-11-01T23:11:44Z

Do you all get along well with your in-laws? I use to get along better with my husband's dad. His mom passed away almost 12 yrs ago. He got mad at me a little after Christmas 2006 as I was wondering if he was going to see his only living sibling, a sister in a nursing home. He got pissed because I said that. To make a long story short, he said some terrible things, like I had too much to say, blah, blah. My son and husband just sat and stared. He asked us to leave. Yes, it still bothers me as I am afraid to go over to his house, even on his 85th birthday today. I picked out stuff for a food basket, etc. But I am not comfortable going there. He can come here, as I can spend time in the kitchen. He's definitely an old school kind of person the way he treats women. I know my husband isn't crazy about this, but he didn't tell his dad not to talk to his wife like he did. Sad.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 9 replies

Getting ink out of stuff..

2008-10-21T19:32:53Z

.. uggh.. so the other day I find an ink mark on my faux leather nano case.. and then on this light blue corduroy jacket I have.. it's blue ballpoint!.. is there anyway to get the ink off of this stuff?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 15 replies

The DG is back!

2008-10-19T03:04:38Z

Sorry gals! Had some friend issues here and then tribe being down all the time put a damper to the time I spent here.
We're getting ready for the cold weather. Seems like there is more to do each year. My one hated job-switching out summer to winter clothing. Ugh! I wish I had a walk-in closet. I try to load up a bag of clothes for the Goodwill too. I still have too much stuff-like 33 long-sleeved cotton t-shirts in every color. I take good care of my clothes, so they last a while.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

Care.com

2008-07-01T03:48:52Z

Hey D.G.s! Just say this ad on tv and if you think you can handle other people's kids, parents, pets or houses, you could get yourself on their list (after they approve you) and set your own hourly rate. I'm thinking about this for myself. I've been around 100s of kids and raised my own son who turned out pretty good. ; )
Passing on some good info if you want to make some moola.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

I Am Exhausted!

2008-07-01T03:43:45Z

Ever since I got pregnant again I have been so tired. I know that it's eventually going to pass but I'm just miserable. My hours are ALL screwed up, and they're even worse now that they've switched the hubs to a night shift until mid July. I really should try and get my schedule back on normal military times, since he's not here anyway.

The amazing thing is, I have really been making progress with my house. I've done at least a load of laundry every day (which is a huge pain to me because my dryer is totally broken. We COULD fix the heating element, but so much else is wrong I'm afraid we'd burn the house down.) I've vacuumed every day. My kitchen is really shaping up. And I started labeling the house to help my son read. Doing that made me suddenly realize, "DUH" I should do that for myself so I'm not wandering around trying to figure out a new place to put something EVERY time I put it away. We're going to move our dresser into the living room next to the laundry room so I'm more likely to get stuff into it. I guess despite being so tired all of the time (and everything gives me a headache, I'm surprised one hasn't cropped up yet typing this) I'm actually really proud of myself and happy. Yesterday, going outside trying to evaluate what I needed to mow, I discovered that I had morning glories growing wild all over in all of the shady areas of my house and I couldn't have been happier if he came home with a diamond ring.

Just thought I'd share. I'm feeling really social tonight, which is another big, "whoa, what's going on here" for me. LOL

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

What's come over me?

2008-06-11T01:20:27Z

My domestic skills are lacking lately as I'd rather be outside gardening! Now the past few days, I've been tidying a bit more as it's hot as Hades here in PA. I'm trying to work on the piles of stuff. I want to deep clean the rugs, so that's a positive thing.
I have been cooking though-good! I keep the kitchen fairly clean. I just tidied up the pantry and bread drawer. Found 7 boxes of cereal that was expired-this made me angry as cereal is expensive and it gets bugs in it if you aren't careful. My son lived away from home for school this year and he is my cereal eater. I have cereal jags where I can eat it or it bothers me to eat it with cold rice milk. My husband only eats a banana for breakfast.
Anyway, how is everyone doing?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

Room by room

2008-03-21T19:40:12Z

I clipped an article to share with you, but will post some of it tomorrow as I'm really tired tonight. They do say to do one wall at a time in a room so you concentrate on say, the sofa area and move on to the tv area. Good stuff though.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Dusting!

2008-03-21T19:39:21Z

Omgosh, so I had to come over here and share this new thing I found out.

Dusting with dryer sheets!!! I read it in First Magazine (my mom sends me them AFTER she's read em) anyway.. that was one of their tips last month, and I have to say it TOTALLY works WAY better than regular dusting.. it picks up SO MUCH stuff!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 9 replies

tv icons

2008-03-05T20:51:23Z

who is yor favorite TV stay at home mom/ housewife and why ? how do you wish you were like her?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 2 replies

What's Your Favorite Web Recipe Site?

2008-02-19T06:55:58Z

I am fond of Cooks. com. And they have some of Paula Deen's recipes on search too.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Click A Garden

2008-02-19T00:45:16Z

http://www.procreo.jp/labo/flower_garden.swf

I think this is so neat...a black screen comes up and wherever you click a flower will appear.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 1 reply

Gag Gifts

2008-02-18T22:38:17Z

http://budget101.com/gaggifts.htm#All_Occasion_Gag_Gifts

Inexpensive gag gifts for many occasions.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

Bath Jelly Recipe

2008-02-18T22:36:33Z

Lush is a luxurious bath and body store that will draw you in just with the aroma flowing out the door. Unfortunetly Lush is not in everyone’s price range and as a result recipes are sort out all over the internet.

This Lush Bath jelly recipe is easy to follow and a very close match to Lush’s own jelly.

To make this Lush inspired recipe you will need:

1 packet of Unflavored gelatin 15g (1tbs)
1 tsp of Salt
1/2 cup of Liquid soap
3/4 cup of Water
Food Coloring
Fragrant oils or essential oils
Plastic storage jar with lid

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

I'm in Love!

2007-12-30T01:48:59Z

With my Dirt Devil Broom Vac! My hubby got me this for Christmas--even though he didn't want to buy me that type of present for Christmas! But I REALLY wanted one. My Swiffer vac had died on me and I saw commercials for this and read good things about it. And remember when we were talking about fur balls all of the the kitchen floor thanks to pets? This is wonderful for them! Sucks them up--even ones hiding in corners and under furniture! One side sweeps and sucks and the other side specifically sucks up the larger items. Then just open the bottom, dump it out and charge it up when you're done (no batteries). This is a great purchase for any domestic goddess! It's worth the $50 especially if you have pets and/or kids!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Household pet peeves

2007-12-21T16:49:07Z

Besides my husband sometimes leaving the toilet seat up what bugs you? I would say the way our glass screen door slams. I ask my husband to adjust it, but it still BANGS if you don't hold it when you go in or out. Sometimes I jump a foot! Also letting the trash can get too full or walking over a piece of paper like a magazine insert. Gee, sounds like spousal gripes!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 11 replies

Dressing for the Holidaze

2007-12-17T16:25:21Z

Last year our newspaper said that Christmas sweaters were oh so passe'. Then dozens of women sent in their pictures wearing theirs and saying how they loved them. I have a darling one I've had for years and decided to get a new one and the women's store I went to didn't have any in larger sizes; was I gritched.

I made some t-shirts with those iron on Christmas designs.

For more formal occasions I have a velvet pants suit my sister gave me, and a turquoise sequins dress with jacket.

Just around the house and shopping I wear red a lot with Xmas pins on them.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 7 replies

Decorating for the Holidays!

2007-12-13T15:59:09Z

.. how soon is too soon do you think?

For some reason I'm REALLY in the spirit this year. I started putting up our decorations today.. Jack kinda looked at me like I was borderline insane, but I told him I was SO excited to get everything kicked off this year. I don't have really any "Thanksgiving" decor.. I've got a wreath, but that's about it.

Is November 11th just crazy-insane to start putting up the garland and gingerbread men?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 10 replies

Pets and household cleaniness

2007-12-13T15:45:21Z

I have a cat and he's pretty clean. I do try to vacuum a few times a week. I wash his bedding frequently. Still when I shake out my dust mop, it's loaded with his hair. And he is coming up from the basement with 'dirty' paws from the litterbox or hacking a hairball once in a while. I know people that won't have pets because they are clean freaks. This one lady makes her son keep his dog on the deck when he visits her. So do you think pets are lots of extra work or are they worth it? You know my answer. ; ) I will say that I have to take special precautions. My guy was scratching my little sofa, so I put packing tape on the edge of it and his scratching post is near it. He also scratches the rugs and my wicker chair. He piddled on some of my record lps when we first let him become part of the family. That almost blew it for me, but he really loves me and I found the old lp that I really loved that he ruined.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 14 replies

What kitchen thingie would you want from Santa?

2007-12-13T15:30:48Z

I asked for a roasting pan.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 12 replies

Just a little frazzled

2007-12-13T01:56:54Z

We got the tree up, but things are out of place and piled up. I usually clean well for Thanksgiving, but I had a surgical procedure done (I'm fine), which set me back. Oh Merry Maids! (like never). I noticed the berber rug is looking soiled too. I rarely wear shoes in the house, so it's my husband. I guess I'll get him to help deep clean since he helped make the mess. I found some fun vintage holiday photos from the web I'll add here.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 16 replies

Dish soap?

2007-10-13T03:25:28Z

I've been buying Dawn lately as it's recommended for washing the cross stitched pieces I do, I guess it pulls the oils out of the fabric that your hands leave behind. Talk about different kinds! Wow!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Pick your laundry detergent

2007-10-11T17:17:47Z

Just curious to see if you buy the same all the time or what's on sale.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 8 replies

Pacing yourself

2007-10-11T13:15:58Z

Any suggestions for a frazzled housewife? I haven't been able to hold much of a job for the last 2+ years due to an illness that recently has been taken care of, and am trying to get back on track w/getting the house looking as good as possible, or at least not looking like a tornado or a horde of vikings trampled thru.

Any suggestions or help would be appreciated

Fairylite

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

Pick your soup

2007-10-09T15:12:24Z

Progresso or Campbell? OR do you buy generic? And favorite kind? I like soup, but it's so salty! I need to make more of my own. It's not rocket science and filling too.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

Fall cleaning

2007-09-25T16:18:43Z

I'm thinking about doing the curtains since we are getting warm weather again. I don't know if I should launder them or just do 'the shake'. I'll probably put them in the washer since most are over heat ducts. I like to do the rugs too. I have an electric rug cleaner. I don't use it a lot as only a few of our rooms have wall to wall carpet, but it freshens up the rugs and makes it smell nice in here. You wouldn't believe what comes out of rugs! The berber where I am sitting now doesn't look that bad for being almost 15 yrs old. I would like to replace it in the next 5 yrs, but that would mean moving about 300 books and tons of other stuff.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

What's come over me?

2007-08-11T23:36:26Z

I have the urge to clean lately! I think it's because I was on medication that was dragging me down and it's finally out of my system! I can't do anything outside as it's so blasted hot and humid. But I was like, wow, I feel like I did as a younger woman! I hope it lasts. : )

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

Best DG skill

2007-07-10T17:39:52Z

I may have brought this up before, but what do you consider your best skill as a DG?
For instance, I try and make a nice presentation with food on a plate-is that lame or do I want to copy a fine dining experience? : )
I like how I decorate and arrange things.
My baking is good.
On the most part I think my best skill when I get into it is organization.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 9 replies

9 WORDS WOMEN USE

2007-07-07T02:32:23Z

Got this in an email and had to share:

1. Fine: This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.

2. Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

3. Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.

4. Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

5. Loud Sigh: This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to #3 for the meaning of nothing.)

6. That's Okay: This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

7. Thanks: A woman is thanking you, do not question, or Faint. Just say you're welcome.

8. Whatever: Is a women's way of saying forget you!

9. Don't worry about it, I got it: Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking "What's wrong?" For the woman's response refer to #3.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 2 replies

Who waits on you?

2007-07-07T02:31:20Z

Not sure if I've brought this up before, but do you ever get breakfast in bed or a meal carried to the table for you? Not me! Not even on Mother's Day. If my husband or son go to McDonald's or Dunkin' Donuts and bring me something (once a month if I am lucky), that is a big thing!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

Guests in a week

2007-06-10T18:46:03Z

A friend of mine, who I have never met in person, is coming to my house with her husband (I guess) on Saturday. She gave me a week's notice and didn't ask if I had plans, she just invited herself. Don't get me wrong, I want to met her but she is talking lunch, sightseeing and dinner. I am making lunch but with the other two things, well money is a little tight, but I guess I can scrounge up enough to go.
So what I'm asking, what do I do to get this place in shape in a few days?(Don't worry, I have started already) Concentrate on the worst areas? And I don't want to show her the bedrooms as they are disaster areas and need deep cleaning. I have been concentrating most of my efforts on my gardens and just tidying inside-so not worrying about guests. She told me she isn't 'Mrs. Goodhousekeeping', but still, I want to make a good first impression. I also maybe wanted to get out of going sightseeing, but not sure how to do so. I told her she should come down from NY through Lancaster and stop off there and then come here-haven't heard back from her about that. Any suggestions? How do I entertain her after I give her lunch and show her the yard?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 13 replies

Bath Towels Ugggh!!!

2007-05-10T01:50:50Z

Okay so I bought these AWESOME new bath towels.. and I've washed them twice so far and I swear they are STILL shedding like crazy. One's red and the other is orange.. so it's noticeable on the skin... any tips? Should I wash them with something else besides other towels?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 2 replies

Too many roles?

2007-05-09T15:53:18Z

I may have mentioned this before, but sometimes I fell pulled in so many directions. I'm not the perfect housewife. If I want to garden, then I'll get out there and maybe have a stirfry from a sack for dinner. To think of how much I should get paid for all these different jobs-well I do indulge myself with nice makeup or a few magazines.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

Anything new on the home front?

2007-05-08T16:53:43Z

With birthdays and holidays kinda taking over, I am trying to get on track again with more sorting out of unsold eBay items. Also, we had to get a new furnace and things were pushed to the side in the basement where my eBay things are stored.
The weather is making me nuts! I so want to get outside and do garden stuff. It looks like spring is frozen in time.
And the furnace bangs everytime it goes on or shuts off, so the heater guy is coming to check it tomorrow. Also we turn it to 68 and it heats up to 72!
I did a lot of cooking this past weekend-asparagus pasta salad and red potato salad to go with the free turkey and ham (from bonus coupons!).

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Pressure Cooker Cookin'... ????

2007-04-25T03:28:48Z

Hi Goddesses ~

I just recieved a pressure cooker as a gift.

I have no idea what to do with it...

Does anyone out there have good recipes or pressure cooking tips to share?

thx in advance,
bam

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Potty training...

2007-04-12T04:08:28Z

What works...?

I'm finding potty training to be a lot more difficult than I expected.

:::sigh:::

My little girl is 2. 8mos (3 years old at the end of June).
She is genuinely interested, and has been for some time.
I can sense she's feeling dissapointed and stressed about potty training.
The last thing I want is for this to be a terrible experience for her.
I don't want to push her, or traumatize her.
I feel so inexperienced in this!

I appologize for posting here, but I wanted some perspective from other at-home moms/domestic goddesses.
Does anyone have insight to share... positive or negative?
Tecniques, books, how to set up a positive home environment, etc?
I could really use the support... so feel free to chime in on this discussion.

PS: Havn't tried rewards except for rub on tattooes whenever there is a success. (her idea)
We found that stickers and charts don't really motivate her.
Not sure how I feel about offering candy etc as a reward..

Any Help or ideas would be much appreciated!
-Bam

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

That springy time of year

2007-03-21T18:54:24Z

I'll be glad when the last of the cold vanishes. I have been trying to get rid of stuff I have hoarded for eBay. If I don't sell it, it's going. We want to get a treadmill for the space that stuff takes up.
My husband has his own bathroom in the basement (that's where they put it-the house is 47 yrs old) and I find that he hoards stuff in there-a desk, his old toys from home, magazines that are getting old. I do take up a lot of the space throughout the house though. ; )
Do you find hoarding tendencies in your own home?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 10 replies

non-fattening comfort food

2007-02-20T02:54:02Z

Hello all Goddesses. Well we have had many bumps in my families road . Now my pants don't fit or barely fit. You know the ones you can wear them but they may be too tight. I am having a hard time not baking another cake or cookies. So I figured I would come to you knowledgeable Goddesses. Comfort is still very much needed but not something that we will need new clothes. Please help. We have of course used other forms of comfort but you know how a nice comfort food can just hit the right spot. Many Blessings

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 11 replies

Red Wine

2007-02-17T14:11:53Z

my friend recently gave me a bunch of venison steaks, i marinated them overnight in Lambrusco then pan fried them for a few minutes and they turned out fabulous! i really dont drink but will ahave a few glasses of it. sometimes i will add a splash of it to marinara sauce.
anyone here do anything w/red wine?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 2 replies

moms, pregos, and belly dancers...

2007-02-16T06:11:20Z

I would like to invite all moms with children of any age, all moms to be, and any belly dancers who would like to join in on any mommy style discusions or read any funny stories to join belly dance'n mammas tribe. I am really looking forward to raising my daughter as a little belly dancer she is ten months old and already dance'n up a storm. This is my first child so it is all very new to me this mommy stuff. I would also love experienced moms to share there wealth of knowledge to us newbys. And to boot.... I plan on having another pip squeak, so if I can I would like to keep dancing throughout my pregnancy and I am shure at that time it would be nice to have others in the same boat or who have been there to ask questions.
http://tribes.tribe.net/bellydancenmammas

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

Getting out the Crockpot

2007-02-14T18:01:46Z

Tomorrow the weather is suppose to be 'wintry' so I going to use the crockpot to make a turkey and noodle dinner. I bought it in a bag, but I sometimes add to it to make it 'semi-homemade' (like that Food Network show). Funny how appliances get popular again. I also pulled out my bread machine and cranked out a few loaves which disappear in no time. The one bread that works for me is the packaged mix. I have to take my yeast out of the frig to warm it up before I try another loaf on my own.
Anyone out there use these two appliances?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 7 replies

Cookie Goddess

2007-02-14T01:50:58Z

The past few days I have been craving chocolate chip peanut butter cookies. I also wanted to use my adopted kitchenaid. Last night my daughter and myself made cookies. They looked beautiful and tasted oh soo Yummy. First I made a couple batches of regular(since my eldest has braces). Then I added chopped walnuts and peanut butter. I have to admit when the kitchen aid is gone I will truly miss it.Many Blessings and happy baking.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 18 replies

Any new yummy creations?

2007-02-03T15:52:56Z

Hello Goddesses. Has there been any magic in your kitchen lately . If so please share.Many Blessings good day.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 17 replies

Homeland Security

2007-01-26T12:58:09Z

This post was prompted by 2 things.
Dj's post concerning her anticipation to start a family
and...
my cat!
---bring on the cheez!

so, my theory is that having someone at home, holding down the fort cultivates a great sense of security and well being.
I know that when my hubby comes home from a trip he likes for me to be there.
At first I interpreted this to be a machisto trait but little by little began to understand that coming home to someone can be quite grounding.

Winter seems to have finally descended over Spain, which means my kitty came in from his spring like antix.
There he sleeps, next to the fire. content and secure from his jungle outside, the world.
=)

side note/ I often wonder if I would have been more "grounded" if my mom had always been home when I cam home from school?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

I can't wait to raise MY kids...rants from a nanny...

2007-01-24T03:15:19Z

I call myself a trained domestic goddess in the making....i work 50+ hrs/ week for infant twins--including doing all their laundry, dishes, yada yada...

My husband is Belizean and he is just getting his permanent residency (we just moved from his country to the US, though I'm originally from the US).. even though he is not Machismo, like most central american males, I still find myself cooking fresh meals every day and keeping the house as tidy as I can even though I work a LOT. He does not have his work permit yet, so I'm the "bread winner"..

I just wanted to say that I know what it means to work outside of the house and yet doing "inside of the house" work since I work inside the babies' home...i just invest so much love and energy and time into these babies --and i just can't wait until my husband starts working and I can put that energy into my own children before i either get jaded or burned out by being over-worked...just a little rant from a nanny who gets paid to do DG work for someone else, without reaping the benefits of that love going to my own family...

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

New ideas for Kitchenaid

2007-01-23T14:01:20Z

Well I have cookies down pat and also many extra pounds. I mixed up an awesome batch of meatballs. Anyone have healthier ideas of how I can play without getting gigantic. Thank You. Many Blessings Stephanie

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

meaning

2007-01-17T23:31:40Z

waking up everyday,
making breakfast,
making beds,
straightneing the house,
making lunch,
doing dishes,
blah, blah, blah,

where do you find the meaning in your life?
I have no children,
so I guess its just so hard to find.
:´(

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 13 replies

Junk Mail!!

2007-01-17T22:03:22Z

Okay, so today I was going through papers and stuff.. and I SWEAR.. we must have had like 40 pieces of mail just from stupid credit card companies... does anyone know how to get them to stop sending you offers and stuff?? It's totally infuriating! I heard you're supposed to shred the offers so people can't apply for cards in your name.. so I spent a good 40 minutes just shredding those damn things! I mean we have three credit cards and that's the way I want to keep it.. I just thought to myself.. what a waste of paper!!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

About religious posts

2007-01-17T04:29:21Z

The DG will delete religious posts. I know quite a few of you and we talk about religion at another site.
This tribe will mainly focus on our roles in our homes and how we deal with such. Thanks other DGs. : )

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

Bill paying

2007-01-14T15:16:23Z

I took on that task many moons ago and really hate it! I know you can do it online, that's if you have tons of money in my opinion. My husband use to pay them all in a bunch when you really need to spread them out and pay when due. I hope we can do online bill paying some day. I do check out my account that way and do express transfers too.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

Easy Meals..

2007-01-06T09:33:35Z

I'm really big on doing the whole one dish thing.. so I can have leftovers for a couple days..I've only got two so far::

Lasagna and Tuna Cassorole..

Do you ladies have any one dish meal recipes to pass on??

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 8 replies

Horray I found you

2007-01-04T13:11:42Z

Happy New Year Domestic Goddesses. I am new and yesterday made killer meatballs using my friends Kitchenaid . I knew I had to find a place and people to share my glories and also give and seek advice. Many blessings
Stephanie

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

New Years Clean Up

2007-01-01T04:44:22Z

So I'm thinking of getting our landlord to hire one of those dumpster thingies to put outside our building and just going through EVERYTHING and throwing out what we don't need.. which is a lot!!

I swear it's my resolution to be better organized this year. I can always navigate through the clutter and piles of stuff around the flat, but sometimes it just gets on my nerves.

Anyone planning a clean out for 2007? Any tips?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

new tribe

2006-12-30T22:57:38Z

check out my new tribe nourishing traditions http://tribes.tribe.net/33367459

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 0 replies

Holiday Plan

2006-12-23T00:40:57Z

Here's what I do and it works out well...
Get an idea of what people want and need and start shopping-not on Black Friday though.
Get the Christmas cards filled out (I buy a bunch of 50% off ones at the end of the season). I make a photo journal to add to the card that shows family and friends what we've been up to. Mail by the 10th.
Start decorating around the 10th. Get the tree up by at least the 15th (I'd rather leave it up for a while in January).
Start baking around the 15th-18th. Make about 8 kinds of different cookies if I'm up to it.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Home bound elegance.

2006-11-09T00:44:53Z

I'm coming to terms with being a house wife/Domestic Goddess and am looking for practical yet elegant solutions in everyday wear.
I'm tired of looking scrappy but since I live in the mountains it needs to be durable.

any ideas?
I looked for house dresses on the web but man are they ugly!
I don't really sew but have started looking at patterns.

I live in Spain so any sites would be appreciated!

Thanx!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 7 replies

Inexpensive Security Systems.......

2006-10-23T20:55:13Z

i may have posted this before, i know i've been thinking about posting it for awhile.......

when i was a single parent we lived upstairs on the second and third story, sliding glass doors on balcony. besides the typical stick stopper i would hang a string of jingle bells
or a small very tinklly windchime on the sliding glass doors/outside doors. there was no way in hell anyone was gonna get in without it making a racket.

also, i would use wine glasses on window sills that had ledges. if anyone was to open the window the unevenness would knock the glass over. anything that would fall and crash to make noise. also using the same method above for my window.

we didn't have dogs so we used this instead.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 11 replies

Less time as a SAHM

2006-10-18T15:47:48Z

I was working full time, then Hubby deployed to Iraq. I decided to stay home with the kids, instead of someone else raising them. Daddy was with them when I was at work. Now that I'm at home I feel like have so little time now. My question is, who changed the laws of time, and what up with that??

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Anything disrupt your beauty sleep?

2006-10-17T10:06:54Z

I would say that DH snoring will do it for me. Lots of nights he's in the guest room and I hate it. He needs to lose weight and also puts his hand behind his head a lot of the time.
I also can't stand a stuffy room and too much light, so I make sure the shades are pulled down.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 11 replies

I'm on the ball-Oxyiclean that is

2006-10-16T21:36:20Z

I have been doing my laundry with this. It seems to be shrinking in size, so I guess it's distributing detergent. It doesn't work that great on whites, esp underwear. So I'd probably end up using Tide or whatever on my intimates. Not sure if I will keep using it. I will say my sinuses seem better. I always wondered if I was sensitive to the scent in detergents.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

Halloween costume ideas

2006-09-28T20:36:59Z

If you dress up or have kids, what have been really fun ones over the years?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

Stinky towels

2006-09-28T05:12:34Z

I don't know if I need to replace my bath towels more often, meaning to buy new ones or am I just not cleaning them correctly? This may be another job for Oxiclean (soak them first)! The towels get that funny wet smell-ugh. I dry them with a dryer sheet for a long time. You think the heat would help them out. What do you do?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 18 replies

Sheets

2006-09-08T04:13:55Z

I just read that if you wash sheets with towels that you make the sheets pills. Now I never had this problem in over 20 yrs and now do!
I hate changing sheets so much. Brian came in the family room last night and I was happily stitching something and told me the beds are still pulled apart! I waited until 10 to make them. I think every 10 days are good for sheets. What about you? I still get that image of dust mites in my head-the little microscopic critters eating our flakey skin. Hope you aren't eating!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 8 replies

Routine changes?

2006-09-08T04:11:55Z

Now that the school year is coming up fast, do you do anything different then you do in the summer months?
My son is a college boy living at home for another year. I would say I definitely will rearrange computer time, eBay selling time and cleaning time. I will be spending more time indoors, so I need to get moving on jobs I have put off for a few months.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 8 replies

Just deep cleaned rugs

2006-08-27T15:35:19Z

One of the best things we bought over the years is the Bissell deep cleaning rug machine. I also have a Bissell vacuum that does a great job. I didn't even use rug cleaner in the machine-just Oxiclean and warm water. It took out a ton of dirt! I like to run it around a few times a year. I only have two wall to walls and I still need to move furniture to clean the rugs there.
That Oxiclean stuff works well on stains. My new sink was getting kinda brown on the bottom (its off white) and I tried a few cleansers. I put an inch of water and the Oxiclean in it and presto-it took out the stain. Also worked on an old stain in a rug.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 1 reply

Dusting

2006-08-26T23:38:23Z

How bad do you get dust on the table tops and those bunnies under the bed?
We live fairly close to a busy backroad and I seem to see dust all the time. Pain in the butt. I have allergies and it messes me up all the time. Wish there was some invention that came out of the ceiling and sucked up all the dust without us having to rip up an old t-shirt ever again! ; )

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 9 replies

Vacation time

2006-08-05T15:39:42Z

Do you DGs go on a trip every summer? Where? Do you plan it all?
We usually just go to one of the beaches within a few hours of here (I am a bit sick of it, but my son still goes with us and he'll be 20 soon and will fly the coop one of these days). I'd love to go up to Maine or even Canada. My son actually pinpointed the hotel this year, but I am the one who make reservations. As long as I don't have to drive, I should be happy!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 13 replies

Heat wave relief

2006-07-25T14:47:20Z

What is the best thing to do to for yourself? Do you take cool showers? Sleep more? Eat tons of ice?
The best I have felt lately is eating green tea mango smoothie ice cream (Turkey Hill). My goodness, I was awash with refreshment! ; )

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 11 replies

i am new!

2006-07-25T13:21:34Z

hello you all! :o)

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Chemical free carpet cleaning

2006-07-21T05:13:42Z

Tomorrow I am doing a carpet cleaning for some ladies at their church (how sweet!) and they are allergic to harsh chemicals. I have a Hoover carpet cleaner to use (it's my dads) and normally I would use the stuff you buy at any store and use that. Not gonna work here. Is there a homemade solution I can use in the machine? Lemon juice? Vinegar?

The cleaner has great scrub brushes and the water gets very hot so I know it will do a great job. But, I am sure the water alone will not take all the stains out.

Last minute help appreciated! Thanks!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

Kinda proud of myself right now...

2006-07-14T16:57:58Z

I just got my home in order for the first time in 3 years and I am talking the whole 9 yards. I did a major purge as I went through each cabinet, cupboard, drawer, and room cleaning every nook and cranny of this house and re-arranging all the furniture while i was at it. I even cleaned out the garage AND the hell zone backyard too!!! It took a good 2 months to do the whole project in between my business and 2 children, not to mention keeping my partner happy with hot meals on the table. I am feelin like a new woman and just wanted to share with ya'll!

Peace and Much Love,

~julie adame

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 8 replies

Who rules the roost?

2006-07-14T15:32:51Z

I was watching a movie last night about a lady who had Parkinson's Disease. When the daughter thought her mom wasn't going to pull through head surgery, she said her mom was the glue that held the family together. That statement actually turned the dad around.
Although we all want 50/50 relationships, I know it doesn't work out that way. I would say I am mostly the decision maker. I'm the one who instigates almost everything-from going out to dinner to going to the Home Depot. I like it and I don't. I was raised by a strong grandmom and a weaker mom. I think I know who I take after.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 16 replies

If guys read our posts...

2006-07-13T05:18:11Z

...they would turn into the perfect companions, don't you think?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Decoding Your Plastic Containers

2006-07-11T14:45:11Z

This is a posting I left on another Tribe about the dangers of plastics. It occurred to me that this information may be useful to others, particularly on this website, since we Domestic Goddesses are usually the ones buying these products and putting them to use.

The following information was originally published in the June 2005 issue of Organic Style Magazine in an article titled Yes, Your Food Storage Can Be Safter, by Kieran Doherty. I know that many of you already know some or all of this information, but I thought it might be helpful to those who don't, or expand on what may already be known:

If you want to know the type of plastic in your wrap, sandwich bags, or storage containers (they're not likely to be labeled), contact the manufacturer's customer service department or check its Web site. On the bottom of plastic containers used for packaging, you'll see a number inside a triangle. It's a code developed by the plastics industry to make sorting plastics easier for recycling centers; it also indicates what type of plastic the container is made of.

<1> PETE, aka PET (polyethylene terephthalate) Used for most transparent bottles, such as water, soda, cooking oil, and medicine bottles. Generally safe to use (not reuse); generally recycled.

<2> HDPE (high density polythylene) Sturdy, rigid plastic found in reusable food storage containers, milk and detergent bottles. Generally safe; generally recycled.

<3> PVC (polyvinyl chloride) Used for plastic wrap, and detergent and cooking oil bottles. Additives in PVC can increase the risk of birth defects and hormone-related cancers. Its production can be hazardous to workers and the environment. Generally not safe; not recycled.

<4> LDPE (low density polyethylene) Flexible plastic used for bags or wraps, such as produce bags and baby-bottle liners. Most number 4 plastics are not designed for reuse. Generally safe; generally not recycled.

<5> PPE, aka PP (polypropylene) Pliable plastic found in squeeze bottles, reusable food containers, and yogurt and margarine tubs. Generally safe; generally recycled.

<6> PS (polystyrene) Used in rigid take-out containers and foam meat trays. Can leach styrene when heated, a possible endocrine disruptor and human carcinogen. Not safe when heated; generally not recycled.

<7> Other; most often refers to PC (polycarbonate) This plastic is most commonly used for baby bottles, five-gallon water jugs, and reusable sports water bottles. It can leach out the hormone-disruptor bisphenol A, especially when heated. Because this group can include various other plastics, it has limited recycling potential.

A word about recycling: Not all recycling facilities accept all plastics. Enter your ZIP code at www.earth911.com to find out what numbers you can set out.

Recommendations: The Do's and Don'ts

For Microwaving: Do use microwave-safe glass or ceramic.
Don't use any plastic, including plastic wrap, Tupperware, and Styrofoam. Cover foods paper, not plastic, but don't use recycled paper towels-they may contain metalic flecks (from ink or ground-up staples) that can combust.

For Refrigerator Storage: Do use glass, ceramic, stainless steel, or PVC-free plastic wrap. Don't use plastic containers for anything that will leave behind a residue that will require scouring, which can create scratches. Don't store or cover hot food in or with plastic-let it cool first.

For Packing Lunches: Do use foil or waxed or butcher paper to wrap sandwiches and snacks. If you prefer the convenience of bags, look for ones made from number 4 plastic.
Don't use any plastic for high-fat foods such as meat or cheese; plastics contain chemicals that are attracted to fat.

For Water: Do use glass or stainless steel or pitchers made from number 2 or 5 plastic.
Don't use pitchers made from number 7 plastic.

For Freezing: Do use foil, freezer paper, or number 4 plastic freezer bags.
Don't use any glass or plastic not labeled FREEZER SAFE-extreme cold can cause both to crack. Don't put hot food in plastic bags or containers-let it cool first.

For Pantry Storage: Do use glass, aluminum, stainless steel, or number 5 plastic.
Don't store food in any plastic container made from number 3,6, or 7 plastic.

Currently, most plastics are made from cude oil, but there's a new generation of plastics made from starches such as rice, corn, and soy. Called bio-based plastics, they are biodegradable and recyclable (some are even compostable), and their production is generally better for the environment and your health. There are concerns about fertilizers and pesticides used in the production of rice, corn, and soy, but on the whole, bio-based plastics are still a more earth-friendly option than their petroleum-based counterparts.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 2 replies

Continuing Ed for Women Training Men

2006-07-08T19:16:53Z

Interesting read!

What Shamu Taught Me About a Happy Marriage
-------> http://www.nytimes.com/2006/06/25/fashion/25love.html?pagewanted=2&ei=5087%0A&en=2986571c17448464&ex=1152504000

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Placemats and More

2006-07-08T14:54:35Z

Greetings to all you gorgeous, gregarious, and glorious goddesses out there. My mother has just started a little dotcom business, although she has been selling on ebay and at craft faires for a number of years, and I wanted to share the link with you all. It is called The Placemats and More Store. My mother makes and sells beautiful hand crafted textile items, all very reasonably priced, in a smoke free home in sunny Brea, CA. Please feel free to browse the store. You may see something you like for yourself or someone else. Thanks for looking.

http://www.placematsandmorestore.com/servlet/StoreFront

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 10 replies

Continuing Education for Men

2006-06-29T01:23:20Z

(With all due respect to the male of the species: Please use sense of humour when reading.)

CLASSES FOR MEN AT THE LEARNING CENTER FOR ADULTS
REGISTRATION MUST BE COMPLETED BY Monday, June 12, 2006

NOTE: DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY AND DIFFICULTY LEVEL
OF THEIR CONTENTS, CLASS SIZES WILL BE LIMITED TO 8 PARTICIPANTS
MAXIMUM.

Class 1
How To Fill Up The Ice Cube Trays --- Step by Step, with Slide
Presentation.
Meets 4 weeks, Monday and Wednesday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.

Class 2
The Toilet Paper Roll --- Does It Change Itself?
Round Table Discussion.
Meets 2 weeks, Saturday 12:00 for 2 hours.

Class 3
Is It Possible To Urinate Using The Technique Of Lifting The Seat and
Avoiding The Floor, Walls and Nearby Bathtub? --- Group Practice.
Meets 4 weeks, Saturday 10:00 PM for 2 hours.

Class 4
Fundamental Differences Between The Laundry Hamper and The Floor ---
Pictures and Explanatory Graphics.
Meets Saturdays at 2:00 PM for 3 weeks.

Class 5
After Dinner Dishes --- Can They Levitate and Fly Into The Kitchen Sink?
Examples on Video.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginning
at 7:00 PM

Class 6
Loss Of Identity --- Losing The Remote To Your Significant Other.
Help Line Support and Support Groups.
Meets 4 Weeks, Friday and Sunday 7:00 PM

Class 7
Learning How To Find Things --- Starting With Looking In The Right
Places And Not Turning The House Upside Down While Screaming.
Open Forum .
Monday at 8:00 PM, 2 hours.
< B>
Class 8
Health Watch --- Bringing Her Flowers Is Not Harmful To Your Health.
Graphics and Audio Tapes.
Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.

Class 9
Real Men Ask For Directions When Lost --- Real Life Testimonials.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM Location to be determined.

Class 10
Is It Genetically Impossible To Sit Quietly While She Parallel Parks?
Driving Simulations.
4 weeks, Saturday's noon, 2 hours.

Class 11
Learning to Live --- Basic Differences Between Mother and Wife.
Online Classes and role-playing .
Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, location to be determined

Class 12
How to be the Ideal Shopping Companion
Relaxation Exercises, Meditation and Breathing Techniques.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.

Class 13
How to Fight Cerebral Atrophy --- Remembering Birthdays, Anniversaries
and Other Important Dates and Calling When You're Going To Be Late.
Cerebral Shock Therapy Sessions and Full Lobotomies Offered.
Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.

Class 14
The Stove/Oven --- What It Is and How It Is Used.
Live Demonstration.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM, location to be determined.

Upon completion of any of the above courses,
diplomas will be issued to the survivors.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 16 replies

Car Tip

2006-06-26T16:50:54Z

esp. for those with kids or messy hubbies, because those messes can get smelly

pour a little bit of fabric softner under one of the seats in the car
or
for a more subtle scent, use fabric softener sheets.

(of course, its even better if you clean your car first! lol.........)

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 1 reply

Candle Wax

2006-06-22T18:50:18Z

Hey everyone!!

I have a candlewax issue... my favourite tea light candles tend to overflow wax into my votive holder thingies... it gets to a point where there's to much wax to even use them any more and I end up either scraping the crap out of them or throwing them out!

Any help for removing candlewax?!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Bubbles

2006-06-16T15:49:53Z

Trying to make bubbles for our homecare. Back in the day I just used dishsoap and water but it was cheap dishsoap. We are now using soap made from essential oils of tea tree and lavander. We noticed that the bubbles aren't as good. Is there anyway to make them longer lasting and use the good stuff?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

clean your house without killing yourself and others

2006-06-11T18:34:13Z

nice little eco-friendly spring cleaning guide for ya'll. there are links in the article too http://www.yogitea.com/Lifestyle/GreenSpringCleaning.htm

The spring equinox is fast approaching, and soon we can all throw open our windows and let the March breezes blow winter away. And it's about time: Levels of pollutants in indoor air can be from two to more than 100 times higher than outdoors, according to the U.S. EPA. That indoor pollution is due in large part to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate, or "offgas," from home decorating and cleaning products.

So step one for spring cleaners is: Open a window and let those pollutants out! Yet even in this season, when a vase of daffodils can fill a room with a lovely natural scent, many consumers stubbornly keep using synthetic room fresheners and fragranced cleaning products that are full of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. These can make our indoor air unhealthy, provoke skin, eye, and respiratory reactions, and harm the natural environment.

Take those so-called air fresheners. According to a study published in New Scientist in 1999, in homes where aerosol sprays and air fresheners were used frequently, mothers experienced 25 percent more headaches and were 19 percent more likely to suffer from depression, and infants under six months of age had 30 percent more ear infections and 22 percent higher incidence of diarrhea.

In choosing alternatives, however, consumers need to be alert to greenwashing. "Just because a product says it's natural doesn't mean it's nontoxic," says Jeffrey Hollender, CEO of Seventh Generation, which produces genuinely eco-friendly cleaning supplies and household products. The word "natural" is undefined and unregulated by the government and can be applied to just about anything under the sun – including plastic, which comes from naturally occurring petroleum. Because no standards exist, claims such as "non-toxic," "eco-safe," and "environmentally friendly" are also meaningless, according to Consumers Union's Eco-labels website. Currently, only food and herbs can be certified organic, so the word "organic" on the face of a dish or laundry soap also doesn't wash.

Instead of being taken in by slogans, David Steinman, coauthor of "The Safe Shopper's Bible," advises looking at labels for specific, eco-friendly ingredients that also perform effectively. These include grain alcohol instead of toxic butyl cellosolve as a solvent; coconut or other plant oils rather than petroleum in detergents; and plant-oil disinfectants such as eucalyptus, rosemary, or sage rather than triclosan. You can also mix your own cleaners, as does Annie Berthold-Bond, green living editor at care2.com and author of "Clean and Green" and "Better Basics for the Home." According to Berthold-Bond, a few safe, simple ingredients such as plain soap, water, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), vinegar, washing soda (sodium carbonate), lemon juice, and borax can satisfy most household cleaning needs – and save you money at the same time.

If you're in the mood to detoxify, getting rid of germs doesn't have to mean overkill: This is your home, not a hospital. In 2000, cleaning products were responsible for nearly 10 percent of all toxic exposures reported to the U.S. poison control centers, accounting for more than 206,000 calls, over half of which concerned children under the age of six. According to Philip Dickey of the Washington Toxics Coalition, the most acutely or immediately hazardous cleaning products are corrosive drain cleaners, oven cleaners, acidic toilet-bowl cleaners, and anything containing chlorine or ammonia (which should never be combined – see below).

Read on to get the dirt on various conventional products and ingredients and their eco-friendly alternatives. With a little effort, you can make your home a truly clean haven rather than a chemical storage tank.

Dish Detergents, Laundry Detergents, and All-Purpose Cleaners

Problems
Most conventional dish and laundry detergents are made from petroleum, a nonrenewable resource. Some detergents contain alkyphenol ethoxylates, which are suspected hormone disruptors that don't readily biodegrade and can threaten wildlife after they go down your drain. Ethoxylated alcohols in liquid detergents can contain carcinogenic 1,4-dioxane.

The fragrances in detergents and fabric softeners can contain phthalates, chemicals that have been linked to cancer and reproductive-system harm in animal lab tests. Fragrances may also trigger asthma and allergic reactions, with symptoms including skin and respiratory irritation, headaches, and watery eyes. Although phosphates, which choke waterways, are no longer used in most dish and laundry soaps, they can be found in dishwasher detergents. Phosphates are highly caustic and can be fatal if swallowed.

Other ingredients turn dangerous when combined: Diethanolamine and triethanolamine can react with nitrites (an often undisclosed preservative) to form carcinogenic nitrosamines.

Solutions
Use laundry soaps labeled "fragrance-free," advises Harvey Karp, a Los Angeles pediatrician and author of "The Happiest Baby on the Block." If you want to use citrus-oil products, sniff-test a small amount from a few feet away, as these products can be irritating to allergic or sensitive individuals. Karp also advises choosing dish and laundry detergents and all-purpose cleaners that are plant-based (corn, palm kernel, or coconut oil).

To remove stains from clothing, try soaking fabrics in water mixed with borax, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, washing soda, or white vinegar. Or, look for "non-chlorine bleach" made from sodium percarbonate or sodium perborate, available from Bio Pac, Ecover, Naturally Yours, Shaklee, or Seventh Generation.

Fabric can be softened by adding one-quarter cup of baking soda to the wash cycle; this recently worked on several pairs of catalog-bought cargo pants made of a cardboard-stiff cotton that literally scraped a teenager's skin. A quarter cup of white vinegar will also soften fabric, as well as eliminate cling.

Less toxic products include Ecover and Seventh Generation laundry and dish soaps, Aubrey Organics and Vermont Soapworks all-purpose household cleaners; and Bioshield and Naturally Yours dishwasher detergent.

Antibacterial Soaps and Cleansers, Bleach, Stain Removers, Disinfectants, Glass Cleaners, and Bathroom Scouring Powders

Problems
Popular in liquid form, antibacterial soaps are helping to promote growth of resistant bacteria, according to a 2000 World Health Organization report.

Chlorine bleach, a common disinfectant frequently found in scouring powders and cleaning solutions, is highly caustic, meaning it can burn skin and eyes – plus it can be fatal if swallowed. When it travels from your drain into the natural world, it can create organochlorines, which are suspected carcinogens as well as reproductive, neurological, and immune-system toxins. And be warned: Bleach (also known as sodium hypochlorite and sodium hydroxide) should never be mixed with any product containing ammonia or quaternium compounds. Doing so creates highly toxic chlorine gas. Many conventional scouring powders and cleaning solutions contain chlorine bleach.

Solutions
Instead of using antibacterial soap, Karp recommends thorough hand-washing (about two minutes' worth) with plain soap and warm water.

To disinfect bathroom or kitchen surfaces, try Earth Power's EPA-registered herbal disinfectant or Seventh Generation sanitizers. White vinegar helps kill bacteria, mold, and viruses, according to Berthold-Bond, who uses it on everything from kitchen surfaces to toilet seats. However, the only foolproof way to kill food-borne pathogens such as salmonella or E coli is to use hot, soapy water to wash all cutting boards, dishes, knives, and surfaces that have touched raw meat or eggs. Scrubbing sinks, tubs, and countertops with a paste of baking soda and water effectively removes dirt rings and some stains; if that doesn't work, try a paste of washing soda and water, and be sure to wear gloves. Commercial non-chlorine bleach products include Bon Ami scouring powder and cream cleansers from Earth Friendly, Ecover, and Seventh Generation.

For cleaning windows, fill your own spray bottle with water and either one-quarter cup white vinegar or one tablespoon lemon juice to cut grease. Safer commercial glass cleaners are made by Aubrey Organics, BioShield, Earth Friendly, Naturally Yours, and Seventh Generation.

Drain, Oven, and Toilet-Bowl Cleaners

Problems
The corrosive ingredients in these products can severely irritate eyes, skin, and the respiratory tract, and can be fatal if swallowed. Chemical drain cleaners are among the most dangerous of all cleaning products, containing sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite (bleach) that can permanently burn eyes and skin. In oven cleaners, lye and sodium hydroxide can burn skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract.

Solutions
For drains, a plunger "snake" plumbing tool should first be used to bring up as much of the clog as possible, giving cleaning products room to work, or perhaps eliminating the need for them entirely. Earth Friendly and Naturally Yours drain cleaners use enzymes, rather than caustic chemicals, to dissolve obstructions. Don't forget to prevent future blockage with inexpensive metal or plastic drain screens, available at most home-improvement or hardware stores.

To clean oven surfaces, coat them in a paste of water and baking or washing soda and let stand overnight, then scrub off the paste while wearing gloves. Among commercial products, EnviroSafety's plant-based multi-purpose cleaner works well. Or you can use the non-chlorine scouring powders and creams listed above. To prevent future buildup, line the oven floor with aluminum foil and wipe oven walls and ceiling clean after each use.

For toilets, forget the fancy stuff: Again, use the simple, non-chlorine scouring powders and creams listed above, or try AFM SafeChoice or Ecover toilet cleaners.

Furniture and Metal Polishes

Problems
These are corrosive and may cause eye, skin, or respiratory tract irritation. They can also contain nerve-damaging petroleum distillates or formaldehyde, a carcinogen.

Solutions
Polish furniture with a mixture of one teaspoon olive oil and one-half cup white vinegar, or look for solvent-free products that use mineral or plant oils, such as Earth Friendly furniture polish or Hope's lemon oil.

As your grandmother probably knows, silver can be kept clean with toothpaste. Copper can be polished using a cloth dipped in white vinegar or lemon juice with salt dissolved in it; just rinse with water when you're done. You can shine your brass with a paste made from one teaspoon salt, one cup white vinegar, and one cup flour. Or, use Kleen King copper and stainless steel cleaner, Twinkle copper and silver polishes, or Hope's brass and silver polishes.

Air Fresheners and Other Perfumed Products

Problems
Aerosol propellants contain flammable and nerve-damaging ingredients as well as tiny particles that can lodge in your lungs. Fragrances of all kinds can provoke allergic and asthmatic reactions.

Solutions
If the air outside is clean, open your windows and ventilate the natural way. An open box of baking soda removes odors. (If you're feeling Martha Stewart-ish, you can decant it from the box into a pretty bowl.) Cedar blocks or sachets of dried flowers and herbs provide gentle scents – but avoid any potpourri that lists unspecified "fragrance" on the label; this could mean synthetic chemicals, including phthalates. Look for products scented with essential plant oils, such as lemon, verbena, or lavender.

Finally, we cannot stress enough that you should avoid aerosol sprays in any product, as they disperse ingredients through the air and make them easy to inhale. Even non-toxic ingredients can irritate eyes, noses, and lungs. Carelessly shaken powders can also spread through the air and cause irritation.

Now Get to It!

Most of the eco-friendly products mentioned above can be found in supermarkets or natural-food, hardware, and home-improvement stores. For more complete info and further tips, see the Green Guide website.

And remember: When it comes to spring cleaning, less is definitely more!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

where did you learn to be a DG?

2006-06-08T17:33:55Z

my mother was useless....but my grammy was the best for all those little tips to make chicken moist and bedsheets soft and white with minimal effort....

oh how i miss the old bird. she was the best.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Anyone have an answer?

2006-06-08T13:17:23Z

I have a problem with neighborhood cats, & raccoons coming onto my porch & getting into my trash can. Is there a way to keep them away without hurting them? I am so tired of cleaning up the messes they make though!

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 11 replies

Ammonium Chloride

2006-05-29T14:46:19Z

What the heck is this and were do I get it? Is it like windex or something? I am allergic to bleach and need this substitute.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 2 replies

Hot flashes??!!??

2006-05-27T17:25:32Z

what to do about them??? I started having hot flashes since last year... they come and go as well as my period among other things.... can anybody offer good advice on how to deal with them?? PLEAAASSEEE!!!!!

Gaby

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 10 replies

always lose the remote or your keys....(will not be able to find your mind though)

2006-05-26T19:31:50Z

heehee

i saw this and i thought it was super neat:

http://www.sharperimage.com/us/en/catalog/product/sku__SI676FUN

its a locator thingy you can attach to stuff,

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 7 replies

Do you shop for bargains?

2006-05-26T18:31:44Z

Fess up-are you a coupon clipper, a b1g1f kinda shopper? Love 75% off things?
I have to be in the mood to click coupons. Most stores have 'bonus cards' and deduct from the bill. I like b1g1f -but big ticket items like laundry soap. And I have to be careful with over 50% off unless I really like the deep discounted item. I tend to like clothes others don't (not too weird, but neat colors, etc). The thing can't have too much shelfwear either.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 4 replies

scrubbing bubbles automatic shower cleaner?

2006-05-05T13:08:28Z

http://www.automaticshowercleaner.com/index.asp?hs225=ascoupon0306&hs227=sb

good?
bad?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

Spring "Tidy"ings

2006-04-25T03:43:09Z

Well, spring has finally hit Los Angeles; the sun is shining, the sky is blue, and the air is cool and crisp, and actually smells like, well, air. So this morning, while my children were nestled all snug in their beds with visions of chocolate bunnies hopping through their heads, I decided to take a walk out into my garden. Doves, finches, and jaybirds are flitting all around the trees, some chasing each other in their annual mating ritual, others with little branches in their beaks readying the nests. Big fat black bummble bees (which my children call Neener bees after a dearly departed kitty) are buzzing all about the jasmine and honeysuckle blossoms. My lemon, orange, and avocado trees are so laden with fruit that their poor little branches are bending towards the earth. My peach, nectarine, and pomegranite trees are budding and blossoming. And the grape vines, with their dark, skeletal looking pruned limbs, have started to display leaf adorned tendrils of green. The entire floor of the "grove" area is covered with a blanket of nastursiums and dandylions, milkweed thistle and wild wheat. I couldn't find one of my hoses because it had been completely swallowed up in a stranglehold of clover. So, instead of doing some yoga, I decided I would do a bit of tidying up in the garden. Now, I am one of those people who, when I get started in my yard, won't stop until the sun goes down, and then complains about a sore back the next day. I determined that, this morning, I would just pick one area to clean and clear, and leave the rest for another day. While I was pulling weeds and shifing dirt back into a hole my Staffordshire had dug I thought, "I wonder how the other Domestic Goddesses manage their spring cleaning?" So, I thought it might be nice for others to share their stories, and maybe pass on a few tips or trade secrets on how they manage the dreaded Spring Cleaning.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

I'm so excited!

2006-04-22T08:06:25Z

After 19.5 yrs, I am getting a new kitchen! The boxes are stacked in the living room and the old kitchen is almost empty. Crossing fingers that things will go smoothly. I'll post a photo when it's completed.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Hello fellow DG's....Introducing myself

2006-04-18T13:05:30Z

I am a very happily married mom of one spectacular 12 year old daughter. I went from being a woman who juggled a career, wifehood, and motherhood to a woman who now juggles multiple disabilities, wifehood, motherhood, and keeping domestic tranquility. (My daughter and her stepfather don't get on very well, especially since we hit the 'tweener' phase.)

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

Didn't know what a DG was!

2006-04-13T20:51:45Z

We had this nice floor salesman over the other night and he asked me what my occupation was and I replied 'domestic goddess'. Now the guy was about 60 and he said he never heard that one before! Did he just crawl out from under a rock? I thought that was funny. He at least liked the expression of our worthy job.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 5 replies

What happens when DGs are sick?

2006-03-31T18:09:32Z

I had to go to the doctor yesterday. I had a muscle spasm in my stomach that was terrible. She ignored that and went and pushed on my colon. Because if was tender, she stuck me on two antibiotics. I am only taking one because I feel ok and the muscle spasm is better. I think I have irritable bowel syndrome and not diverticulitis as she suggested. I've been under a ton of stress (redoing the kitchen), started exercised and have hormones that go through the roof. All effect IBS.
The guys have been nice. Brian took off from work yesterday (I was really miserable in the morning).
He asked if I was going to the store today! Yikes-no-not up to it.
But I find if I don't get my act together in a few days, the house and all goes to pot.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 12 replies

New to the group (An Introduction)

2006-03-29T22:10:19Z

Hello ladies,

I am fairly new to the Tribe Network but I think it is pretty cool. I am a work at home mom and wife. We have two daughters 15 and 12... yeah we own shotguns lol....
Anyway, my hsband is a home contractor and I work as his secretary (lol go figure) as well as with a health benefits company for the past 19 months. As with all women we can take on 3 or four full-time positions and still be able to function....We have 3 dogs; a Yellow Lab, Chow/Sheppard Mix and a Rottweiller/Doberman mix. We also hve 2 mutt cats...
I look forward to meeting all of you...

Richelle

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 6 replies

For the Girls!

2006-03-03T18:57:05Z

A friend of mine, who is most definitely is a Domestic Goddess, sent this to me. Wanted to share it with all.

Inside every older person is a younger person
wondering what the hell happened. -Cora Harvey Armstrong-

Inside me lives a skinny woman crying to get out.
But I can usually shut her up with cookies. (Unknown)

The hardest years in life are those between ten
and seventy. -Helen Hayes (at 73)-

I refuse to think of them as chin hairs. I think
of them as stray eyebrows. -Janette Barber-

Things are going to get a lot worse before they
get worse. -Lily Tomlin-

My second favorite household chore is ironing. My
first one being hitting my head on the top bunk bed
until I faint. -Erma Bombeck-

Old age ain't no place for sissies. -Bette Davis-

A man's got to do what a man's got to do. A woman
must do what he can't. -Rhonda Hansome-

The phrase "working mother" is redundant. -Jane Sellman-

Every time I close the door on reality, it comes
in through the windows. -Jennifer Unlimited-

Whatever women must do, they must do twice as well
as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is
not difficult. -Charlotte Whitton-

Thirty-five is when you finally get your head
together and your body starts falling apart. -Caryn Leschen-

I try to take one day at a time -- but sometimes
several days attack me at once. -Jennifer Unlimited-

If you can't be a good example -- then you'll
just have to be a horrible warning. -Catherine-

If high heels were so wonderful, men would still
be wearing them. -Sue Grafton-

I'm not going to vacuum 'til Sears makes one you can ride on.
-Roseanne Barr-

When women are depressed they either eat or go shopping.
Men invade another country. -Elayne Boosler-

Behind every successful man is a surprised woman.
-Maryon Pearson-

In politics, if you want anything said, ask a man.
If you want anything done, ask a woman. -Margaret Thatcher-

I have yet to hear a man ask for advice on how to
combine marriage and a career. -Gloria Steinem-

I am a marvelous housekeeper. Every time I leave
a man, I keep his house. -Zsa Zsa Gabor-

Nobody can make you feel inferior without your
permission. -Eleanor Roosevelt-

Send this to five bright women you know and make
their day.

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Wife Swap special

2006-02-25T19:38:16Z

Did you happen to catch this? I was flipping around watching other shows but missed the first part with the rich lady who wouldn't chop wood. Anything wonderful happen to her after being on Wife Swap?
I noticed that almost all the people who were on the show look so much differrent than they did one year ago. Think it's because they had their '15 minutes of fame'?
Noticed that the people with all the pets moved. Wondered if their original house had be condemned? (they had 25 pets, most of who roamed freely around the house).

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 3 replies

Favorite Godesses

2006-02-21T20:58:22Z

Donna Reed?
Carol Brady?
Marge Simpson?
Peg Bundy?
Angelina Jolie?

so many to choose, so many to choose!
(I, myself, dig Peg!)

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 14 replies

What is your favorite form of exercise?

2006-02-21T20:37:04Z

When I feel good enough to exercise (I am one of those people with aches and pains from having Lyme Disease), I like to do floor exercises or walk. I have a Pilates DVD that's still in the box. Is that hard to get into? I know a lot of you are belly dancers. I couldn't even make a hoola-hoop stay up.
What's the best toner for flabbiness?

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 17 replies

Happy Valentine's Day DGs!

2006-02-17T09:20:46Z

Do tell, what are you hoping for this year?
I'd just like a cozy dinner and a little surprise. ; )

posted in Domestic Goddesses - 7 replies