Author Archives: The Jewish Lady

Brighten Outdoor Space with PermaLeaf

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Creating a beautiful backyard that my family can enjoy has always been important to me. Because we have a busy lifestyle, keeping up with watering foliage and mowing the lawn is a struggle! While I don’t know of any solution to make grass grow slower, there is an alternative to tending plants.

Yes, I’m talking about high quality, zero upkeep, gorgeous looking artificial plants, made by Permaleaf. Many folks have enjoyed these indoors before, but weren’t aware that they could also be used outside.

Not only do they look nice, they are good for anyone who’s environmentally conscious—no water needed, no fertilizer/pesticides needed. Since we’re experiencing a record-level drought here in New England, water conservation is critical! Combine a lack of moisture with the extreme heat of summer and artificial options really do make good sense. Instead of having to re-buy yearly, you can also save money; aside from the initial purchase, there won’t be any maintenance fees.

In addition to outdoor plants perfect for backyards, Permaleaf has options for rooftops/balconies, window boxes, hanging baskets, and privacy screens. Check out their website for many excellent products, or they will send you a catalog by mail.

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Free Reusable Shopping Bags

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Need a reusable shopping bag? Pick one up for free at Rite Aid from 9/11-9/17.

Buy 1 Rite Aid brand bag, regular price $1.00. Use the $1.00 in-ad coupon from this week’s flyer. Total: Free!

My store had these available in blue, but other folks have found them in blue and red, depending on location. Supply was naturally very low (thanks, shelf clearers!) so go early if you really want any.

Pita Chip Dessert

What is it about Mondays that make me feel crafty? (New week, new projects, maybe?) Today’s latest creation was sparked by some serious sugar cravings. Originally, I had intended to bake muffins, but we were missing a few key ingredients. The pantry did, however, have some fun odds and ends that I wanted to experiment with, starting with some soon-to-expire pita chips.

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Also present was a big bag of white chocolate chips and a jar of rainbow sprinkles. While pita chips are very tasty on their own, we all know everything is better when it’s dressed up. My solution? Dessert chips!

How easy—and quick—is it to melt chocolate, dip a chip, then cover with sprinkles? Seriously, this is my kind of recipe—tons of taste for minimal effort. Oh, and for those with inquiring minds, yes, we ate all of them…

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Jewish Baby Name Conundrum

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Picking one set of names for a baby is hard enough; for most Jewish parents, whose children receive both secular and Hebrew names, it can be a real conundrum.

Is it best to pick something mainstream or select something totally unique? Such a tough decision can lead to a lot of angst and hand wringing. In an effort to help parents with this common problem, Kveller has compiled a list of 9 Jewish Baby Names You’ve Never Heard of But Are Going to Love.

Sounds cool, right? I thought so… until I saw the list:

1. Amatzya

2. Anael

3. Zisse

4. Yudel

5. Yifat

6. Kriendel

7. Kfir

8. Otniel.

9. Emunah

Seriously, Kveller? Normally, I love that site and most of their articles, but I have to disagree with that list. Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t like any of them, nor do I think a child would, either.

Names are highly personal; I get that. Many are also sentimental which I respect. Still, it’s important to be honest: most of us do not like our religious moniker, especially if it’s old fashioned/unpopular/weird, etc. (I’m certainly in that club, having been called “Pessel Leah” which I never felt any affection for whatsoever.)

Do I think every baby should be a David or a Rachel? Of course not. But I would caution picking a name that’s unheard of or difficult to spell/pronounce. Kids have a strong desire to fit it and names can be a big part of their identity. 

 

Weigh in on the name debate. Play it safe or pick something wild?