Wednesday, May 16, 2007

A Great Tomato Sauce

This can be served with almost anything, and it's incredibly easy! Just double the ingredients for bigger families. Mix a can of chopped tomatoes with some diced, lightly sauteed vegetables, anything you have around. I used onion, garlic, and peppers. To thicken it up, stir in a little ketchup. Let simmer for just a few minutes. I served it with lamb, and my husband said it was perfect!

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Teething Troubles

Instead of giving baby pain relievers every time their teeth give them trouble, try looking for a natural alternative at your pharmacy. I use Boots Teething Granules with chamomilla, and they have proven a real sanity saver for all of us!

Meatless Meals

Even if no one in your house is a vegetarian, try to slip in a meatless meal once a week. It's a great way to make sure everyone is eating a varied diet, and little less meat can only do you good.

Friday, May 11, 2007

My Granny's Cure for Cradle Cap

Works like a charm! Just make a paste out of baking soda and water, and let it dry on baby's head for a few minutes before the bath. Wash it off and shampoo as usual. You'll be amazed!

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Pan Pipes Are Your Friends

Trying soothing baby to sleep with some pan pipe music. Celtic lullabyes seem to strike just the right chords with my sons!

Washing Toys

Does that special stuffed animal look not so special anymore? When you do your baby's laundry, place it inside a sleepsuit and button it up. Then tie the arms and legs together and throw it in the wash. Take the toys out before putting the clothes in the dryer. Of course this won't work for all stuffed animals, just use your best judgement.

Tuesday, May 8, 2007

Easy Salad Dressing

A tablespoon or so of wholegrain mustard, mixed with some golden or maple syrup and a touch of oil is fantastic! Just mix together and use as needed.

Saturday, May 5, 2007

A Simple Treat for Your Partner

A little kindness goes a long way. When your partner comes home, offer them a cup of tea or coffee. The simple act of making them a relaxing drink says you care, and makes them feel loved.

Cooled, Boiled Water When You Need It

Your newborn(s) are always going to need cooled, boiled water for something! It might be for making up feeds, or they might suddenly need a drink to settle their tummies. Often in the early months, mine would need a bottle out of the blue, and we struggled to get the water cooled fast enough. Try investing in two small jugs, to hold a pint or two, and keep them to the side. On the counter or in the fridge - just in case. Toss out after a few hours and start over.

Change Those Sheets!

I find it's easier to handle chores if they're assigned a certain day. For me, Sunday is Change the Sheets Day! I stick them all in the machine as soon as everyone is up and about. When evening comes, there are fresh beds to enjoy. They hardly have time to lose the lovely laundry scent before it's time to wash them again. I truly think we all sleep better because of this weekly wash.

Thursday, May 3, 2007

Quick Tip for Oven Chips

Frozen oven chips don't have to be dull. Before you place them in the oven, drizzle with a little oil and sprinkle on some spice! Paprika, garlic salt, curry powder - anything you like! Mix through, to ensure all chips are coated. You can use a utensil, but I find just using my hands is easiest. It only takes moments, and the oven will do the rest.

Lovely Laundry

There are lots of ways to save money when running a household, but buying cheap laundry essentials is not one of them. Cut price detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets often leave you with less than lovely laundry. Having soft, delightfully scented clothes will make you and your family happier all through the day. It's just not worth the nominal savings to settle for anything less.

Frozen Peppers?

I recently bought a bag of frozen, mixed peppers with some trepidation - but they were wonderful! They cost almost nothing, and saved loads of time! If you love to add peppers to your cooked dishes, this is a really easy way to go.

Nappy Bags

Having tried a variety of nappy bags, I've found that the store brands are just as effective and strong as the higher-priced kind. Sainsbury's and Tesco both make perfectly strong, fresh smelling bags for a fraction of the price! After all, you're only buying them to throw away.