I'm Looking For a Tree

Helping people pick out trees and other plants for their yards on a daily basis has proved to be a challenging job.

Does it flower? How long will the blooms last? How wide will it get? Is the root system deep or shallow? Will it tolerate the canyon breeze? Does it need a pollinator? What's the difference between the Autumn Blaze and the October Glory maple trees?

Newsflash! Introduced to me by USU Extension Horticulturist Adrian Hinton, this website is easy to use and was created by the good folks at Utah State University.

The Tree Browser allows you to plug in the characteristics you're looking for in a tree, i.e. Family type, growth rate, drought tolerance, etc. and in turn gives you a list of trees that fit your description along with several different photographs of that tree in different settings. This is an INCREDIBLE resource! Please use it and tell your family and friends about it!

A few current favorites...

Platanus occidentalis- American Sycamore

Fagus sylvatica- Tricolor Beech

Cupressus sempervirens- Italian Cypress

Cercis canadensis- Eastern Redbud

Housewife Solution #11

Spend less time making your bed and more time taking photos of it.

Housewife Solution #10- Recipe Edition

Late yesterday afternoon, after waiting out the storm and finally getting the proper groceries, I whipped up some homemade goodies. Two new recipes, both are delicious. The red hot cashew brittle is easy and very tasty.
The cherry shortbread cookies are equally fantastic, however make sure to use a food processor to mix the ingredients. Mine are a crumbly mess, but that doesn't make them any less delicious.

What are your favorite homemade holiday treats?

Housewife Solution #9

Witty and perhaps a little cynical, these books are at least a comic relief for the weary housewife and mother. I think I'll buy a set, you know, just in case.




With the Baby Be of Use Four-Book Bundle, you've got your domestic bases covered. Between naps and "turning over," your baby can learn his or her way around banking, car repair, breakfast preparation, and drink-mixing. Through basic shapes and colors, these board books teach your precious little angels to be useful at long last. And why shouldn't they help a little around the house?

Housewife Solution #8

My mom has inspired me with her ridiculous collection of Fiestaware gathered throughout the years from various flea markets, antique stores, and estate sales across America. As a new generation rolls along, namely me, I'm too anxious to wait around until I inherit these mismatched dessert plates, salt and pepper shakers, and my favorite- the endangered species of Fiesta gurus, the "red bowl."

Although the original Fiestaware stopped being manufactured in 1973, all is not lost. The younger, more colorful grandchild of this dinner plate is my favorite kitchen staple. My cupboards are stacked with Shamrock and Sunflower, two of my favorite colors. Not only are the bright colors delightful, but all Fiestware is microwave friendly and never scratches. Branch out, I dare you!

Housewife Solution #7

Whoever said that knotty alder cabinents and stainless steel appliances were the "it" kitchen? If you're going domestic, do it with style. These retro kitchen appliances from Elmira Stove Works top the charts! Take your pick- "Buttercup Yellow," "Flamingo Pink," or my personal favorite, "Mint Green."

Housewife Solution #6

As a kid, it was actually Grandma's soup kettle we used as the improv booster seat. However, these yellow-pages are hard to resist. There's even little indents to hold the little tush!

Housewife Solution #6

Cliff's been sick the past four days so here's a tip if you're taking care of someone who's sick or you're feeling miserable yourself. I personally use Clorox wipes for everything around the house, but if you're a sponge kind of gal, do yourself a HUGE favor. Wash it! It's easy enough. By tossing it in the dishwasher, you'll be getting rid of the germs instead of spreading them.

Housewife Solution #5

Ever heard of this old home remedy? It really works, I'm not even kidding.