Halloween Costumes: Our One New Thing Rule

Has the costume parade started in your neighborhood yet? My kids have been trying on costumes for at least a month, and each has settled on a final masterpiece. They settled weeks ago. Truthfully, they’ve probably been planning for a year, but I have “Don’t talk to me about Halloween until September” policy that is … Read more

Scented Vinegar for Cleaning

If you are considering using simple basic cleaners for your household cleaning, you can easily add a nice smell by infusing with herbs or other aromatics. My children and I have been making and using herbal cleaning solutions as chemistry lessons. Yes, very sneaky! The cleaning is part of the lesson as we figure out which … Read more

Antimicrobial Overkill

Antimicrobial cleaners and treatments—disinfectants—kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but they also have potential harmful health and environmental effects. They don’t distinguish between good bacteria and bad bacteria. But, a lot of people continue to use antibacterial household products that promise hygiene and safety. Everyone wants to be safe, don’t they? Use of disinfectants such as nano silver … Read more