Hartford Jewish Federation Creates Women’s Dignity Project for Needy

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The Jewish Federation of Hartford, CT has launched something important that will help the needy. Called the Women’s Dignity Project, they are collecting health and hygiene items that many women and girls simply can not afford.

Those of us who are blessed with abundance may not even realize that products like shampoo, deodorant, sanitary pads, cosmetics, toothpaste, and a bar of soap are considered luxuries for some. (Hard to believe, I know, but it’s the truth.)

Even if someone is receiving welfare, they can’t use benefits to buy this stuff and may have to go without. The thought of a young lady unable to attend school due to a lack of feminine hygiene is heartbreaking, not to mention embarrassing and unfair.

At their first meeting in February, over 150 dignity packs were assembled, proving that even small groups can make a huge impact. Imagine if every Jewish Federation or Hadassah chapter followed Hartford’s lead—we could have thousands of packs.

The cost for the packs isn’t a burden for most ladies, especially if you coupon. I donate to my local food pantry every month and without fail, they have more demand than resources. Food, of course, is the top priority, but personal care is also important. Having the ability to wash your hair, brush your teeth, and put on a little lipstick can make a world of difference to someone who is struggling just to survive.

I bet if you check your medicine cabinet, there are unopened items you bought and never used (happens to the best of us). Maybe you have multiples; keep some, give some. If you have extra money and can contribute, take $20.00 and fill up a bag. Being stingy does no good, but giving always is right. Compassion is contagious. If we set a good example, others will follow. Be the change you want to see in the world, don’t just talk about it.

Is Sunscreen Making You Sick?

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The sun is bad; for decades, we’ve been told that by doctors. Exposure to it, without protection, will cause premature aging, discoloration, wrinkles, leathery texture, burns, and possibly even cancer, thanks to UV rays. 

Over-the-counter creams, sprays and lotions were supposed to be a miracle cure, with daily use encouraged. Many foundations, powders and moisturizers contain some—whether or not you want it. 

A frightening new study has revealed that this “protection” may not be so safe, after all. The active ingredients—vobenzone, oxybenzone and octocrylene—end up in the bloodstream at much higher levels than previously thought, so high, in fact, that they’re actually dangerous.

Unless you have an allergic reaction upon contact, it’s not obvious that sunscreen could be a problem. Long-term use may cause endocrine disruption, infertility, Vitamin D deficiency and other health issues.

Yes, participants in the study used extreme doses, covering 75% of their bodies 4 times per day. While that sounds absurd, think about going to the beach, especially with little ones. Aren’t we told to reapply it multiple times, particularly if sweating or swimming? I know that I have used a lot of sunscreen throughout my lifetime!

For now, the FDA says not to worry, but I can’t help being concerned. Of course, I don’t want to blister and peel, however, I don’t want to be covered in scary chemicals either. Luckily, we do have options. 

Physical Barriers:

Wear sunglasses, long sleeves, long pants, and hats when the weather allows. There is also a type of clothing that has SPF in the fabric like HydroChic. They make swim/sport bras that actually look normal!

Sun Safety:

Avoid prolonged exposure during the most intense hours, typically 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Remember that sunlight reflects off water and snow, so if you’re swimming or skiing, it can be worse.

DIY:

If you like to make your own skincare, there are safer versions. Wellness Mama created a nice one that uses natural ingredients like almond oil, coconut oil, Shea butter, vanilla and zinc oxide.

We can’t protect ourselves from every potential threat, but we do have total control over what we put on and into our bodies. Don’t obsess about it, but be aware and exercise reasonable caution. 

Super Savings Saturday – 5/11/19

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This week’s haul was a bunch of random stuff. I shopped all 3 drugstores, but never made it to a grocery store. (The fridge/freezer and cabinets were packed, so it didn’t matter too much.) Next week, I’m planning to shop a lot more. Aldi is finally opening on 5/15. I definitely want to check that out, along with restocking my kitchen.

One of the best things about couponing is getting to try new products like the Coconut Colgate. I may not always like them, but the price is right. (I wouldn’t buy it again.)

Read on to see all my goodies:

Rite Aid:

3 Oreo candy bars, sale price $0.55. I used 3 $0.55 manufacturer’s coupons. Total: Free.

Lady Speed Stick deodorant, sale price $2.99. I stacked a $2.00 store coupon with a $0.50 manufacturer’s coupon. Total: $0.49.

2 No Nonsense trouser socks, regular price $3.29 plus Buy One, Get One Free. I used a $2.00 store coupon. Total: $0.65 each.

CVS:

Colgate Essentials toothpaste, sale price $4.99. I used a $2.00 manufacturer’s coupon. Total: $2.99 plus $2.00 ECB and $1.00 Ibotta rebate. (Be warned that the coconut taste is very strong.)

Walgreens:

5 Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin laundry detergents, sale price $1.99. I used 5 $1.00 manufacturer’s coupons. Total: $4.95.

 

Have you used any coupons lately?

Perfect Boneless Chicken in 4 Easy Steps

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Boneless chicken breasts are the most popular cut of poultry sold in America. Most of us eat them regularly—endlessly?!—but that doesn’t mean we’re good at cooking them. (I’ve certainly had my fair share of bland, dry, unappetizing chicken.)

Taste of Home‘s Test Kitchen has a 4-step plan that’s quick, easy to follow and guarantees a good meal. The following guide assumes you’re using a standard pack of boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are equal size/thickness, normally 3-4 pieces.

Step 1: Brine

Combine cold water with 3 tablespoons of salt, then soak chicken for 30 minutes. This will boost the natural flavor and moisture content.

Step 2: Season

Drain brine from chicken and pat dry with paper towels, then brush with olive oil, salt, pepper and any fresh or dry seasoning you like. I personally love rosemary, parsley, lemon and cilantro.

Step 3: Bake

Place chicken on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 425 degrees for approximately 20 minutes. Though it may seem counter-intuitive, quick cooking at a high heat actually produces a better result.

Step 4: Rest

Remove from oven and allow cooked chicken to rest for 5 minutes, so the juices can redistribute. 

Need some more inspiration? Here are 100 ways to cook chicken breasts. It may sound unusual, but the cranberry maple is actually really tasty. 

 

How do you like to cook chicken?