Ever wanted to research your surname, burial records, and/or family history, but the cost was prohibitive? Here are 12 free resources specifically related to Jewish ancestry. The JewishGen Family finder (#5) is my favorite, with over 400,000 entries!
Welcome to another edition of Super Savings Saturday.
I skipped grocery shopping because I’m sampling some meals from Blue Apron (look for a product review in the near future). The only drugstore item I wanted, ThermaCare heat wraps at Rite Aid, were out of stock. So for the first time in a long time, I literally bought nothing all week!
Though I have no deals of my own to feature, fear not: my sister generously offered to share some goodies she found. Because we live in different areas of the country (I’m in New England; she’s in South Florida), and shop at different stores, I’m always curious to hear what she’s buying.
Aldi:
Unlike me, she is not into coupons and doesn’t shop multiple stores regularly. Everything purchased was a fruit or veggie (her household is vegan). I’ve heard many people rave about how wonderful Aldi is, and after seeing this receipt, I’d definitely agree. The organics, in particular, are a steal. If Aldi was in my area, and I only had the time/interest to make one stop, I’d do what she did.
Personally, I’d buy everything except the dates. We joke that she inherited her love of dates from our grandmother, who was famous for a date and nut bread recipe. (Oh, the memories of times we all cooked together. Many years ago, but I still recall it vividly.)
Have you found any freebies or cheapies lately?
Every minute of every day, we are bombarded by dangerous foreign substances—toxins in the air and earth, BPA and preservatives in food, scary chemicals in our cosmetics. While none of this is healthy for humans, those of us who suffer from allergies are most at risk.
Attending ShiftCon, a conference dedicated to eco-wellness, raised my awareness. Since then, I’ve tried my best to limit my exposure and my family’s, choosing natural and organic whenever possible (and affordable!). Here are 3 standout products that I love:
Air Freshener: Fresh Wave Odor Removing Gel
Between kids, pets, and multiple trash cans, it’s a constant battle to keep my home smelling sweet. In the past, I’ve used sprays, beads, and cones. They all work, but the list of chemicals they contain are frightening! Instead of masking odors with heavy perfumes, Fresh Wave uses an alternative blend of plant extracts and water. One container (7 ounces) lasts up to 30 days and freshens 200 sq. feet. Genius!
Essential Oils: Plant Therapy Trio
Yes, there’s a pill for every ailment, but I’d rather try a non-medical solution. Essential oils have a wide variety of uses. Plant Therapy’s Trio of mini oils is a great sampler for beginnings with small quantities of Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint.
Peppermint keeps flies/mosquitoes away, prevents nausea, and a drop rubbed on temples can ease a headache. Lemon is supposed to be the strongest anti-microbial of all the essential oils. Lavender has a calming effect and is especially useful for insomnia (can be applied to skin or bed linens). Works wonderfully with no side effects.
Laundry Detergent: Molly’s Suds
Normally, I use a liquid detergent, but I’m always willing to try something new. Molly’s Suds unscented powder has only 5 ingredients and is made specifically for sensitive skin. It only takes one tablespoon of this super-concentrated powder to clean an entire wash. I used it twice, once for towels and another time for clothes, and both loads came out squeaky clean. Stains would probably need a pre-treat, but a standard wash didn’t require it.
What are your favorite natural products?
Consumed by drug and alcohol addictions, heavily tattooed, and dedicated to a rock ‘n roll lifestyle—not exactly the description of a typical Jewish lady, which makes sense because singer Amy Winehouse was anything but average!
Her unconventional life will be on display at the Jewish Museum in London starting in March. Photos, personal possessions, and a family tree will be included.
Because she died so young (only 27!), it’s hard not to imagine who she would’ve become and what kind of music she would’ve continued to create. Though she had a short lifetime, her musical impact was strong and her style is still being copied today. (Seriously who could forget her trademark bouffant hairstyle, red lips, and black eye make up?)
While she obviously wasn’t an observant Jew, she was nonetheless proud of her heritage and has a unique Jewish legacy.