No More Funky Cars

by Ann Landi — October 16, 2006

Monday October 16th
Smoothie of the Week

This week’s smoothie, a strawberry-banana concoction, comes from Carole Devine of Brooklyn, New York.

4 large strawberries, fresh or frozen
½ cup whole or low-fat milk
1 ripe banana
5 ice cubes
Honey or sugar to taste
Combine and blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Serves two generously.

Tuesday October 17th
No More Funky Cars

Does the interior of your car sometimes smell like a locker room at half-time? Heather Michon, who lives in central Virginia, has this suggestion: “Get some unused charcoal briquettes (the ones without lighter fluid or other additives). Drop a few into a clean sock, knot the top, and place them under the seats. The charcoal will absorb both odors and moisture in the air, and save you the expense and nauseating smell of commercial products.”

Wednesday October 18th
Indoor “Egg” Gardens

The great find of the week comes from Debra Young of Manitoba, Canada: Egglings are adorable little ceramic eggs made of porous white ceramic with a terra cotta tray. Each comes with a seed pack of either herbs or flowers, and the plants will grow for up to five months in the fortified peat mixture included. At $8.95, these make lovely hostess or housewarming gifts, providing both good cheer and tasty seasonings throughout the winter months. (http://sprouthome.stores.yahoo.net/egglings.html)

Thursday October 19th
Honey-Oatmeal Mask

“If you want your skin to glow,” counsels Jody Ellis-Knapp of Chugiak, Alaska, “try a honey-oatmeal mask.” Simply mix 1 tablespoon of rolled oats with a tablespoon each of honey and milk. Apply to your clean face for about 20 minutes, and then rinse and pat dry. Jody swears it gives her complexion “a fresh, clear look.”

Friday October 20th
Ants Be Gone

Do you have problems with ants invading your indoor spaces? Catherine Robinson of Simi Valley, CA, recommends this alternative to dangerous chemical bug repellents: In a spray bottle, combine 1 teaspoon of peppermint essential oil with 8 ounces of water. Then spritz your countertops, floors, and windowsills. “Peppermint contains volatile menthol oil,” she writes. “Just one whiff aggravates the bugs’ sensitive sensors.” Repeat every few days.

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