LilSugar

Texts and Tunes: Spring Into Reading

babysugar — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 05:00:00 PDT

Since today is the first day of Spring, I thought I'd suggest some cheery, floral laden books for your tot's library.

To see a few of our family faves,

Bunny Kisses ($10): A take on Pat the Bunny, this board book has a "kiss" button that your wee one will delight in pushing at every page.
Wake Up! It's Spring! ($16): As the sun warms the earth, lil creatures from all over are ready to shout, "Spring is here!" The sweet story truly is a blissful celebration of Spring.
It's Spring ($8): Linda Glaser wrote this delightful tale that beautifully illustrates welcoming Spring. The paper–cut images are inspiring for young artists. And at the end of the story, the author provides a list of outdoor activities for youngsters.
Caterpillar Spring, Butterfly Summer ($8): A smart way to introduce your tot to nature and the transition of seasons, this brightly crafted text shows a caterpillar's adventure as he starts as a tiny thing and turns into a beauteous winged creature.
Planting a Rainbow ($7): Help jump start your babe's color knowledge and green thumb by reading this vibrant tale to your sweetheart. Soon enough, the whole family will enjoy a jaunt in the garden.

Phytonutrient-Packed Watermelon With Honey-Lime Mint Syrup

Anna Monette Roberts — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 02:46:15 PDT

It's common knowledge to eat macronutrients like protein, fat, and carbohydrates, but many people skimp out on micronutrients, especially those that come from plants. Phytonutrients, or "plant-based" nutrients, consist of fruits and vegetables that make up the colors of the rainbow. By eating a variety of colors, you are providing your body with antioxidants and other nutrients that protect your body from disease and degeneration.

Lycopene, the phytonutrient that gives fruits and vegetables a red pigment, is part of the carotenoid family. You can easily obtain a high dosage of lycopene by eating watermelon. Lycopene acts as an antioxidant, and daily consumption may reduce risks of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Boost the flavor of the watermelon by tossing it in a honey-lime mint sauce.

See the watermelon recipe after the break!

Tips For Easy Garden Planters

Casa Community — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:30:00 PDT

Here's a post from CasaSugar Community member designingmainstreet from The Girls' Guide to Gardening group:

Earlier this Spring, my husband and I went to the local garden center with a detailed list on what we were going to plant in our planters. We quickly learned that not all of these plants were available at our local garden center and the ones that were cost $5 a piece. That doesn't sound too bad but when the plan called for three of each plant, and we had multiple planters, the cost quickly multiplied.

After a few minutes (okay, an hour) of playing match the plants in our shopping carriage we settled on the following:

Velvet Rainbow Coleus
Dracaena Spikes (Decorative Grass)
White Lobelia
Purple Salvia

My husband was smart enough to pack a box in the car so the plants didn't tip over during the ride home. Great idea, huh?

Keep reading for more tips on planting the planters as well as photos of the final result!