Terra Verde Online

April 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Spring Cleaning Series

Last year during spring cleaning, I documented the whole process and shared my progress with you. I probably won’t document it this year, but I thought you might like to learn from my mad skillz.

Actually, in all honesty, I’m hoping someone will e-mail me and tell me how to make this whole ordeal easier. :-)

Here’s my annual process:

Spring Cleaning Day #1: A Smashing Success

Spring Cleaning Day #2: Happiness Is…

Spring Cleaning Day #3: Just Keep Swimming

Spring Cleaning Day #4: I see the Light

Spring Cleaning Day #5: The Finish Line

Spring Cleaning: The Ultimate Checklist

I hope you will benefit from this. Happy Spring Cleaning!

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Stuffed Mushrooms

We ate these stuffed mushrooms at dinner last night. I expected them to be difficult to make and not worth the time.

But I was so wrong. They were really good!

The hardest part (which isn’t very hard) is taking all the stems out and dicing them up. By the time Michael had finished that, I was almost done with the rest.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb. Large White Mushrooms, stems removed and diced
1 T. Minced Garlic
2 T. Dried Parsley
1/2 c. Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
1/2 c. Butter, softened + 4 T. Butter for sauce
1/2 c. Dry Bread Crumbs or Croutons
1 c. Half n’ Half
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line baking sheet with foil. Combine minced mushroom stems with garlic, parsely, cheese, and 1/2 c. butter. Stuff mushroom caps with mixture. Coat stuffing side with bread crumbs. Place caps (stuffing side up) on the baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven until the crumbs turn golden brown. (20-30 minutes). In sauce pan over medium-low heat, heat half n’ half, parmesan cheese, and 4 T. butter. Stir until thickened. When mushrooms are done, drizzle alfredo sauce over the top. Serve warm.

This is my favorite website for advice related to cooking as well as cookware and other kitchen essentials. And recipes galore, too!

Originally posted 2011-05-19 10:19:33.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Mrs. Meyer’s Cleaning Guide

The other day I perused the library shelves, looking for simple household solutions.

I found two gems. One was the Desperate Housewives Cookbook: Juicy Dishes and Saucy Bits. (Who knew that there was a cookbook?)

The other was Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Home.

One of my favorite cleaners is Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day. The counter top sprays smell so good! Naturally, I had to pick up her “no-nonsense advice that will inspire you toe clean like the dickens.”

I am really excited to try some of the tips and tricks she explains in her book. (Yes, there really is a Thelma Meyer of Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day!) She recommends cleaning jewelry with warm water and rubbing alcohol, keeping emergency stain remover in the top shelf of the children’s room, and assembling an all-natural kit of household cleaners. (Lest you think she’s just looking for her next sale, the all-natural kit made no mention of her products. I imagine that she has had her kit together long before she had a product!) There is a handy section for every room in the house, including extra tidbits such as how to keep sneakers un-stinkified (my word) and controlling pet hair.

The book reads like a mom giving you advice as she stirs a pot of soup. It is also peppered with stories and funny anecdotes from her life as a stay at home mom in the 1950s and 60s. (She gave birth to nine children in ten years. If that doesn’t spell super woman, I don’t know what does.)

As I try the stuff in the book (and you know I will!), I’ll let you know how it goes. In the mean time, check it out from your library or buy it on Amazon and let me know how it works for you!

Originally posted 2011-05-18 10:31:53.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
1 Comment

The Fourth Sign of an Emotionally Intelligent Person: Empathy

Part of me feels like a selfish person for writing about the first three signs of emotional intelligence: Self Awareness, Self Control, and Self Motivation.

Maybe I cringe at the word ‘self.’ It seems that anyone who is so obsessed with themselves couldn’t really show very much empathy. I’ve always believed that the wisest and most emotionally intelligent people focus on other people instead of themselves.

And there is some truth in it. Those of us who sit around reading self-help books when we could be helping other people are missing some of the point here.

However, it’s like being on an airplane in distress. If you are sitting next to a child, an older person, or a person with a disability, you should put your own oxygen mask on first before helping them out. This way, your own oxygen supply will enable you to help them out.

Emotional Intelligence is like that. You have to be a grounded person, knowing where you stand so you can have something to offer. You have to be Self Aware, Self Controlled, and Self Motivated in order to be someone else’s temporary ‘oxygen supply.’

And that ‘oxygen’ is often called empathy.

Empathy is the human connection of Emotional Intelligence. When someone else feels pain, you feel it too. Encyclopedia Britannica says: “The ability to imagine oneself in another’s place and understand the other’s feelings, desires, ideas, and actions.”

People show empathy for a variety of reasons. First of all, empathetic people show that they accept other people and care about their well being. When someone else is going through a rough time, they feel frustration, concern, and even grief themselves. Often, this helps them create bonds and close friendships.

Second, empathetic people also show empathy in order to understand people better. If your gut reaction is to be angry and frustrated, showing empathy can help you see it from their perspective and forgive them sooner. Empathy helps us reduce the risk of making false assumptions and stereotypes as well.

If you are not very good at empathy, it’s ok. I am not either, quite honestly. But here are some ways that we can show empathy and be a more emotionally intelligent person:

Listen to other people. Hear them out.
Following the concept of listening, allow everyone to speak their piece. Value and respect their opinions, even if you completely disagree.
Respond with kindness. Think about it for a while if you have to before responding.
Respond to people’s pain without butting in. Don’t put yourself in the middle of their drama, but offer a shoulder to lean on.

Empathy is one of those things that anyone can develop, but many of us (such as myself) have a hard time practicing.

Who knows, maybe someone else will do the same for you.

Originally posted 2011-05-17 10:54:55.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
9 Comments

Easy Chicken Alfredo

: Image via Wikipedia

This recipe was a big hit! It was one of those meals that I was proud of after I made it. Because chicken alfredo can be kind of heavy and thick, the roasted red peppers were like a bite of sunshine in the middle. I definitely recommend this dish!

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb. Fettucine, cooked
3 boneless skinless Chicken Breasts
4.5 oz fresh Mushrooms, sliced
1 T. Onion, diced
16 oz Alfredo sauce (if you want to make it yourself, my recipe for alfredo sauce is here.)
1 c. Half n’ Half
1 1/2 sticks of Butter
1 jar of Mancini’s Roasted Red Peppers
1 clove of Garlic, crushed
1/4 c. Olive Oil
Parmesan cheese
Parsley sprig

Preheat oven to 350 F. Put chicken, olive oil, garlic, and roasted red peppers in casserole dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake 45 minutes. (Note: make sure your chicken is thawed. I have broken two glass casserole dishes by baking frozen meat on them!)

In a large skillet, melt butter. Add sliced mushrooms and onions. Saute until savory and tender. Add Half n’ Half . Stir until combined. One spoonful at a time, add the alfredo sauce. Thoroughly combine after each scoop. Remove from heat until chicken finishes cooking.

When chicken is done, remove from the oven. Cube the chicken breasts and roasted red pepper. Add to the sauce, mixing until coated. Top fettucine with chicken alfredo sauce.

Garnish with parmesan cheese and parsely sprig if desired.

This is my favorite website for advice related to cooking as well as cookware and other kitchen essentials. And recipes galore, too!

Originally posted 2011-05-15 10:02:09.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

The Third Sign of an Emotionally Intelligent Person: Self Motivation

You would laugh if you only knew. I decided to write about self motivation months ago when I began this Emotional Intelligence Series.

The only problem is, I am not very motivated to get it done.

First of all, I am terrified to write about a topic where I know that I need to improve. The second reason it took me months to write this article is self explanatory.

I wish I were naturally self motivated. Instead, I am motivated by deadlines and consequences.

If I don’t fully understand what will happen if I do not light a fire under my own booty, it may or may not happen.

I always thought of myself as a diligent self-starter. That was back in high school and college when I could look at my given list of tasks (read: syllabus) and work down the list.

The place where I work now is very relaxed, which is a wonderful thing and a horrible thing all at once. First of all, they allow you to adjust your work to fit your needs. (As long as the work gets done in a timely and professional manner, the rest of the details are negotiable.) It’s a wonderful, amazing, beautiful thing. Second, they depend on you to be self motivated in order to make this happen.

Now that I think about it, it isn’t such a horrible thing after all. I need to learn some self motivation skills.

In fact, whenever I try to motivate myself, I create my own lists, deadlines, and consequences. I try to set my own standards and beat them. (Of course, the angel on my shoulder always tells the devil on the other shoulder to give me a break. After all, who else is going to enforce this self-imposed task?)

But when it does work, it is so glorious. Self motivation, the art of motivating yourself to see a task through to completion, is a major confidence enhancer and enthusiasm booster.

Increased enthusiasm, now that I think of it, is a great motivator. I love having momentum, being in the groove of things, and moving to the beat. I hate laziness because it makes me lethargic and listless. Laziness and boredom make me want to run around screaming and pulling my hair out.

Success depends on self motivation. If you want do do something with your life, you need to motivate yourself to move. The president of my alma mater, Cedarville University, once said “you’ll never be what you aren’t becoming right now.” It’s so true.

However, it is important to realize that everyone goes through spurts of energy and laziness. Some people err more on one side than the other, but everyone experiences both throughout their lives.

Here are some ways to motivate yourself:

-Move with the beat. When doing house work or yard work, play upbeat music that you enjoy.

-Reward yourself. When you finish, go to a movie with a friend or have an ice cream in the park.

-Fake it til you make it. Oddly enough, acting energetic and driven can actually make you energetic and driven.

-Set small goals. If you break your overwhelming tasks into bite sized chunks, it becomes realistic and achievable.

-Start small. Begin with reading the chapter, making an outline, or clearing off your desk.

-Tackle it. Do the most dreaded thing first (for me, it’s scrubbing the toilet). After that, house cleaning is cake.

-Make boring tasks fun. ‘Nuff said.

-Look at the big picture. If you know why you are doing the task, the desired outcome becomes a motivator.

-Take time for things that make you happy.

Get the book: Click Here to read about the book, “Emotional Intelligence for Dummies.” I highly recommend it as a practical resource!

Originally posted 2011-05-14 10:36:50.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Local Honey for Allergies

Allergy shots. Antihistamines. Eye drops.

It’s no wonder millions of people dread allergy season. (Or flee to a region that doesn’t have allergy seasons at all.)

Immunotherapy is the reason that many allergy treatments work. The treatment exposes your body to the allergen internally, desensitizing you so that particular allergen won’t bother you any more.

However, immunotherapy is a very specific process that will treat you for certain strains of allergies. Many times, people find that they are allergic to other elements outside the treatment.

This is why many people eat unpasteurized local honey to help their bodies desensitize against allergens in the environment. Honey that is harvested in the general area that you live in contains traces of all the major allergens that irritate you. Ingesting it through your food will essentially do the same thing (if not better) than an allergy shot!

Many bee keepers bring jars of fresh honey to their local farmer’s markets. Also, health food stores often stock up on locally harvested honey. If you ever have an unwanted swarm of bees on your property, you can also call a bee keeper to transport them to his hive.

I recommend putting local honey on toast, drizzling it over your cheerios or ice cream, and putting it in your tea. Or, you can try this elixir to treat ailments with local honey. There are hundreds of solutions to allergies, and you don’t have to just deal with it every year!

Originally posted 2011-05-13 10:04:00.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

The Second Sign of an Emotionally Intelligent Person: Self Control

I first heard of Emotional Intelligence in college. We had to take a class called “Corporate Culture” in which the topic of EQ (as opposed to IQ) was brought up.

It was interesting to think about. Some people are book smart with few social skills. Some people are street smart but not-so-academic.

And a lucky few in the middle have a good balance of both. But then again, there are so many types of intelligence. It is hard to quantify a person’s aptitude when there are so many different kinds of aptitudes to be had.

The five signs of Emotional Intelligence are Self Awareness (knowing yourself intimately, including how to work with your own weaknesses), Self Control, Self Motivation, Empathy, and Social Skills.

Self control (or discipline) is ultimately part of your personality. Some people come by it easier than others, but anyone can develop self control if they put effort into it.

I admit, I am not the perfect picture of a self disciplined person. But here are some things I try to do every day to improve myself:

1) Make the bed every morning and pick up clutter when you see it, not just when you feel like it.

2) Do what has to be done first. That means minimizing chit chat, tv shows, and fluff until after your obligations are fulfilled. (I will admit, “chit chat and fluff” is important. Just don’t do it first, though.)

3) Try not to eat food just because it is offered to you. Our office is exploding with muffins, cookies, hershey kisses, and lots of other stuff.

4) Use social networking sites as rewards AFTER your regular work is done. This is a tough one for me.

5) Take time for exercise. Also a tough one for me.

6) Make goals for yourself and reward yourself when you achieve them. People who can’t handle pressure, competition, and overall discipline have a much harder time with their lives in general.

Self Awareness is really important for Self Control. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses as well as where you stand is important for developing discipline. If you have these two things under control, you will have more composure with your emotions and more control over your actions.

If you want to develop Self Control, you have to be patient with yourself. No one is perfectly self controlled; some people are just better at pretending than others. No matter how skilled you are in this area, everyone has room for improvement. One way of becoming more disciplined is to concentrate on what you are trying to do. Those who have difficulty concentrating (and I would know; I am the Queen of Randomness!) have a harder time sticking to their goals and becoming a disciplined person.

When you set your goals, make sure they are SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. If your goal is to “open a business someday” or “complete higher education,” you might as well commit to eating an entire steak in one bite. It can’t be done. However, both of these goals can be broken down into achievable steps. If you think in terms of what you are capable of in small chunks, nearly anything is doable.

Another thing to remember as you work on Self Control is to forgive yourself for making mistakes. I make mistakes all the time. Don’t dwell on what is in the past, but focus on doing better in the future. (If an apology is in order, make sure you take care of it. But don’t mentally beat yourself up.) If you make mistakes, you are at least making progress by realizing your efforts in the first place. Mistakes mean that you are trying, so it is actually a positive thing.

If you haven’t read my Emotional Intelligence series, here is the link. I love to read about types of intelligence like a real dork, so here are my findings! I hope it is helpful. Just keep in mind that I am writing about what I have learned in this area, but I am not a healthcare professional in any way. If you need professional help, please seek it from a licensed professional.

Get the book: Click Here to read about the book, “Emotional Intelligence for Dummies.” I highly recommend it as a practical resource!

Originally posted 2011-05-12 10:07:44.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

How to Upcycle: Decorating in the Green

I love upcycling, recycling, repurposing, and refurbishing!

I have a long list of things that need to be repurposed. One of them is an old favorite sweater that will soon be felted and turned into a cozy winter scarf. There are also two large baskets in my basement that will soon be stained and shellacked. There are two pewter herons in my bathroom that “wear” my jewelry when I’m not wearing them. The metal needs to be re-polished so they can be shiny bright. I’ve thought about mosaic tiling an old table, too, but that project might be a little ambitious for my current skill set. Two 1960′s Mary Tyler Moore-esque sofas are also in the basement waiting for new upholstery. I want to upholster them in a slate grey crushed velvet. Tufted, of course.

But we will see when I have time to do all of these projects. I have also completed a few upcycling projects. Remember these lamps? I’m in heaven when I’m working on this type of project. Hopefully there will be many more to come.

So, in the spirit of motivating myself to get these projects done, here are my ten questions to ask when you are considering upcycling an item:

Can it be painted or wood stained? You’d be surprised what a fresh coat of paint can do. If you use paint that is specific to the surface area (metal, plastic, etc.), your item will look brand new again. (If it’s rusty, be sure to rust seal it before you paint it.)
Can it be used for something other than its intended purpose? My pewter herons are originally mantle decorations. However, they are very good at holding my jewelry. My rings slide over their beaks, and my necklaces and bracelets dangle from their feet and wings.
Can it be nailed to the wall? Some objects can be easily turned into coat racks, hooks, mail holders, wine racks, and a ton of other things.
Will it solve a problem? It is worth it if it will remove a pile of mail, keep your scarves organized, or help you match those awful tupperware/gladware lids to containers.
Can it be repaired? Sometimes a good old fashioned fix can make the difference.
Can it become “supplies” for another project? Maybe an old shower curtain can become a paint dropcloth.
Can it become a utility item? Perhaps it has a purpose in the garage.
Can it be re-upholstered? Sometimes that is a lot less expensive than buying a new piece of furniture. It depends on the quality of the frame and the fabric you choose. If you choose fabric that has a definite repeat pattern, you will end up using more fabric than a solid color.
Can someone else benefit from it more than I can? Sometimes you just gotta take it to the Goodwill.
Will it make your life easier, or are these questions giving you a headache? In that case, recycle or donate. Just don’t re-gift.

Originally posted 2011-05-11 10:53:50.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

In A Perfect World…

In a perfect world, businesses who operate ethically should be allowed to grow without restrictions.

The people who own those businesses would buy things from you, me, and that guy around the corner who owns the bicycle shop.

They would hire us to build their houses, watch their kids, run their businesses, sell their products, walk their dogs, manage their properties, coordinate their weddings, and oversee their finances.

They might even hire a kid to shine their yacht.

They would contribute to non-profits.

They will put money towards scholarships.

They will help the needy.

After all, there wouldn’t really be as many needy people to begin with.

Originally posted 2011-05-10 10:38:06.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

What Is Public Relations?

Public Relations is a major buzzword in modern industry.

The only problem is, most of us (and by us, I mean “we”) don’t really know what it is!

We look at it as something for celebrities (Paris Hilton’s fame is almost completely publicity), politicians (just look at news articles about Sarah Palin, Anthony Weiner, and Gabrielle Giffords. Heck, even Barack Obama), and other famous people.

Marketing’s best kept secret, however, is Public Relations.

When a business publishes a milestone (a grand opening, anniversary, award, new product, or million dollar sale), they call attention to their establishment.

In other words, new customers.

Unlike advertising, which most people take with a grain of salt, Public Relations is almost completely centered around a credible, unbiased, event-centric, facts-only report.

And hidden in that event-centric, facts-only report is a positive public image. Exposure and brand awareness. The best ways to achieve this through Public Relations is to develop a customized strategy to get your business into blogs and magazine articles, TV and radio news pieces, e-mail and print newsletters, workshops, and flyers. What works for one business may not work for another, however. Public Relations is a very flexible field, however, that can be molded to fit your business, the industry, and your ideal customers.

That event-centric, facts-only report is also credible. Anyone can take out an ad and make themselves look good. A good reporter is going to do their homework and fact check their work. Because of this, a quality press release has to represent your business for what it is. The general public is more likely to trust the news than they are your word.

That being said, Public Relations isn’t advertising. It isn’t sales.

And it certainly isn’t guaranteed to produce any results.

But nine times out of ten, it often feeds your sales pipeline with curious potential new customers. And that is worth a lot more than a plain old advertisement.

Originally posted 2011-05-08 10:10:33.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Tea & Accessory Series

Tea is one of those life staples. You hardly notice that it is here, but you really miss it when you don’t have it.

It’s Black. White. Green. Red. Oolong. Hot. Iced. Steeped. Brewed. Percolated. Chilled. Fragrant. Fruity. Herbal. Steaming. Exotic.

I drink lemon tea or green tea all the time. I’ve been going through a tea phase since I was about sixteen, and I don’t expect it to die down any time soon!

If you want to read about the health benefits of green tea, find some good tea accessories, or join the stinkin’ tea cult, you can read more about it here:

Originally posted 2011-05-07 10:09:52.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

I Declare There is No Enjoyment Like Reading

Jane Austen for the win…

Originally posted 2011-05-06 10:08:51.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Terra Verde Candles: Sweet Lavender

When Michael and I started making candles, we had a couple of things in mind. Besides it being a fun project, we also started to look for the best fragrances that would make our house smell fresh and nice.

And we just so happened to find a really, really good one.

Lavender in particular is not just a nice smell. It is also a common cure for many aches, pains, and ailments, including insomnia. People use pure lavender for skin problems and acne, headaches, treats blisters and burns, and many other things. (Lavender will also dry your skin out, however, so only use it on your skin if you err on the oily side.) However, it is important to note the difference between pure lavender oils and lavender fragrance. Many over the counter products claim to have “lavender” in them, but it contains only the scent of lavender instead of the full potency of lavender essential oil.

Since lavender is known for curing headaches, relieving stress, and soothing skin, Michael and I thought it would make a perfect aromatherapy candle. We are glad we did when we created this Sweet Lavender Jar Candle! While supplies last, you can order here.

This candle, made from all natural ingredients, is perfect for a relaxing warm bath or a nice companion while you read. It is hypoallergenic and made with only the purest ingredients.

Originally posted 2011-05-04 10:07:12.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
1 Comment

85 Books to Read Online

Since posting my 100 Good Reads, I’ve received a lot of questions from people asking if I know of a good resource for reading them online. I did a little bit of research on the subject and addressed each title that was e-mailed to me. Here is what I found! Enjoy!

PS- Obviously I haven’t read every word of these online versions. If you find any broken links, strange languages, or missing passages in these e-books, please e-mail me so I can remove the link from this post. Thank you so much!

A Perfect Union: Dolley Madison and the Creation of the American Nation by Catherine Allgor - Kindle Version
Abraham Lincoln: A Presidential Life by James M. MacPherson – Kindle Version
Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt – Kindle Version
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst – Kindle Version
All Marketers are Liars by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
An Autobiography of Thomas Jefferson - Kindle Version
Anne Bradstreet: The Complete Collection – Kindle Version
Anne of Avonlea by Lucy Maude Montgomery - Kindle Version | Online Version
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery - Kindle Version | Online Version
Baby by Patricia Maclachlan – Kindle Version
Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary - Kindle Version | Online Version
Betsy-Tacy by Maud Hart Lovelace – Kindle Version
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer – Kindle Version | Online Version
Building Emotional Intelligence by Linda Lantieri – Kindle Version
Caddie Woodlawn’s Family by Carol Ryrie Brink - Kindle Version
Calico Captive by Elizabeth George Speare – Kindle Version
Craft, Inc. by Meg Mateo Ilasco – Kindle Version
Craft, Inc. Business Planner by Meg Mateo Ilasco - Kindle Version
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer – Kindle Version | Online Version
Emma by Jane Austen – Kindle Version | Online Version
Florence Nightingale, Angel of the Crimea by Laura E. Richards - Kindle Version
Frank Lloyd Wright: A Life by Ada Louise Huxtable - Kindle Version
Free Prize Inside by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell - Kindle Version | Online Version
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by JK Rowling – Online Version
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by JK Rowling – Online Version
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by JK Rowling – Online Version
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by JK Rowling - Online Version
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by JK Rowling – Online Version
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban – Online Version
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by JK Rowling – Online Version
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie – Kindle Version | Online Version
I Love You, Ronnie by Nancy Reagan – Kindle Version
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte – Kindle Version | Online Version
Les Miserables by Victor Hugo – Kindle Version | Online Version
Linchpin by Seth Godin – Kindle Version | Online Version
Mansfield Park by Jane Austen – Kindle Version
Meatball Sundae by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
My Early Life by Winston Churchill - Kindle Version
My Life and Work by Henry Ford - Kindle Version
New Moon by Stephenie Meyer – Kindle Version | Online Version
Norman Rockwell by Laura Claridge – Kindle Version
Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen - Kindle Version
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry – Kindle Version
Permission Marketing by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
Persuasion by Jane Austen – Kindle Version
Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie – Kindle Version | Online Version
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen - Kindle Version | Online Version
Prince Caspian by CS Lewis - Kindle Version | Online Version
Purple Cow by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
Ramona the Brave by Beverly Cleary - Kindle Version
Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary - Kindle Version | Online Version
Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen – Kindle Version | Online Version
Small is the New Big by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
Socrates by Voltaire – Kindle Version
Survival is Not Enough by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
The Avion My Uncle Flew by Cyrus Fisher - Paperback Version (Unavailable online or on the Kindle at this time)
The Big Moo by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare - Kindle Version
The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis (All 7 books) - Online Version
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare - Kindle Version | Online Version (Including one of my favorite sonnets)
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman - Kindle Version
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger - Kindle Version | Online Version
The Dip by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
The Domino Book of Decorating - Hardback Version (Not available online or on the Kindle at this time)
The Giver by Lois Lowry - Kindle Version | Online Version
The Green Mile by Stephen King - Kindle Version | Online Version
The Horse and His Boy by CS Lewis - Kindle Version | Online Version
The Last Battle by CS Lewis – Kindle Version | Online Version
The Letters of John and Abigail Adams by John Adams - Kindle Version
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by CS Lewis – Kindle Version | Online Version
The Magician’s Nephew by CS Lewis – Kindle Version | Online Version
The Shabby Chic Home by Rachel Ashwell - Kindle Version
The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare – Kindle Version
The Silver Chair by CS Lewis – Kindle Version | Online Version
The Story of My Life by Helen Keller – Kindle Version
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by CS Lewis – Kindle Version | Online Version
The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare – Kindle Version
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum – Kindle Version | Online Version
The Works of Aristotle – Kindle Version
There is no Alternative: Why Margaret Thatcher Matters by Claire Berlinski – Kindle Version
Tribes by Seth Godin - Kindle Version
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer – Kindle Version | Online Version
Unleashing the SUPERidea Virus by Seth Godin – Kindle Version
Winnie the Pooh by AA Milne – Kindle Version

Originally posted 2011-05-01 10:51:00.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

50 Questions From Our Readers Pt. 1

Thanks to e-mail and Google, we’ve received lots of reader questions. Some of these were e-mailed to me directly and others were search terms that led you to our website.

So you never know. Typing a question into Google could land you on Terra Verde Online someday– so here’s the interesting, the crazy, and the truly bizzare.

I’ll do my best to answer all your questions every month!

1) How do you make soap with fabric softener?

I’ve never made soap with fabric softener, but I have a great recipe for laundry detergent and fabric softener here!

2) Give me a good reason to watch The Green Mile.

Well, you don’t have to watch it or read it. (The book is really good, too.) But I really enjoyed it! It gives you a good perspective of the concept about “laying your life down for someone else.” Whoops, hope I didn’t just spoil the ending.

3) How do you cite movies in a research paper?

It depends on whether you are assigned to use APA or MLA citations. Standard format is as follows:

APA: Cool, J. (Producer), & Doe, J. (Screenwriter/Director). (1980). The Best Movie On Earth [Motion Picture]. United States: Twentieth Century Fox.

MLA: The Best Movie on Earth. By John Doe. Dir. Joe Cool. Perf. Jane Smith, Sally Schmo. Twentieth Century Fox, 1980. Videocassette.

4) Who played in Little Women with Audrey Hepburn?

You must be thinking of Katharine Hepburn, who starred in the original Little Women movie in 1933. Her co-stars were Frances Dee, Jean Parker, and Joan Bennett. I was impressed with Jean Parker’s portrayal of the fragile Beth. It was a very good performance!

5) Do you have any good cures for writer’s block?

Take a break for a minute. It’s amazing how you can snap back into the mood after taking a break!

6) Why do you think Anthropologie is such a success?

Let me say right off that I might as well send part of my paycheck directly to Anthropologie. THAT may be the reason for their success. But in all seriousness, I think that Anthropologie is really good at connecting with their customer base. They design their stores and their products in an urban-vintage, hip-yet-chic way that makes girls feel like Anthropologie can make their lives better. If you’ve made your customers feel like you are speaking to the kind of person they want to be, you’ve made it as a business owner.

7) Do you have any advice about how to keep an intelligent person interested in you?

Well, I ought to know all about that because I am married to a very intelligent person! All joking aside, though, I am not really an expert on relationships. The best advice I can give you is to be an intelligent person yourself. Read up on books and newspapers and keep track of current events. Travel and maybe learn a language. But don’t try to force your date to stay interested. (Believe me, I’ve tried this and it doesn’t work.) If they are moving on in another direction, then you should move on too.

8) What are some ideas for extending spaghetti leftovers?

My mom makes these amazing english muffin mini pizzas out of leftover spaghetti sauce. Line english muffin halves, face up, on a baking sheet. All you need to do then is spoon leftover spaghetti sauce (with ground hamburger) onto the open halves of the english muffin. Put mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese on top. Broil for a few minutes, but watch closely because oven times vary.

9) Is a Yule Log burned over the twelve days of Christmas?

The Yule Log is a great Christmas tradition. In northern Europe, people used to set aside their biggest piece of wood (usually the majority of an entire tree) to burn during the twelve coldest days of the year. They made it very ceremonious and festive. But at the end of the day, it was all about survival: keeping morale and keeping warm.

10) What is your rule of thumb about how long leftovers will last in the refrigerator?

Oh, I am a terrible person to be answering this question. You should see the menagerie that I’ve grown in the refrigerator. My rule of thumb is that leftovers are good for an additional three days, give or take.

11) Why do you think Christmas is so stressful?

I think we put a lot of effort into making it special to the extent that it isn’t relaxing any more. You should find a balance between the two. Keep it low-key and special at the same time.

12) Can a dog be emotionally intelligent?

I have to admit that I smiled at this question. I never really thought about it before. This is my unofficial answer: to an extent, yes. Dogs exhibit supportive, loyal behavior nearly 100% of the time. They also show empathy and get sad when you are sad. So yes, I think that dogs are a good example of emotional intelligence. However, they don’t experience the complex situations that a person may get involved in. Also, they don’t really have the range of emotions that we have. While they may be good examples of emotional intelligence, they also are not as emotionally complex as a person.

13) Is Keanu Reeves in Gone with the Wind?

No, but his grandmother may have seen it when GWTW first came out in 1939!

14) What is the best John Grisham movie that you’ve seen?

Hands down, Christmas with the Kranks. I loved that movie. (And the book, too!)

15) Was Orchard House in the Little Women movie with Winona Ryder?

The movie wasn’t filmed at Louisa May Alcott’s actual residence, but the set was modeled after the real Orchard House.

16) What, if anything, is on the list of potential objections to marrying Mr. Darcy?

Mr. Darcy’s character develops a lot through the story. At first, though, his offer of marriage is enough reason by itself to refuse him: “In vain I have struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you. In declaring myself thus I’m fully aware that I will be going expressly against the wishes of my family, my friends, and, I hardly need add, my own better judgement. The relative situation of our families is such that any alliance between us must be regarded as a highly reprehensible connection. Indeed, as a rational man I cannot but regard it as such myself, but it cannot be helped. Almost from the earliest moments of our acquaintance I have come to feel for you a passionate admiration and regard, which despite my struggles has overcome every rational objection, and I beg you, most fervently, to relieve my suffering and consent to be my wife.”

17) Do you ship your crackled soy candles anywhere?

YES! Our candles can be shipped wherever you want them!

18) Can you make a pomegranate scented candle?

Again, YES! If you want any special fragrances that are not listed in our store, just let me know!

19) How do I tell if I am an emotionally intelligent person?

There are five attributes of an emotionally intelligent person: self awareness, self control, self motivation, empathy, and social skills. You can read about it here.

20) Can you slim down with green tea?

Yes, you can! Green tea is wonderful at raising your metabolism. Besides, the high water content in tea is also a key weight loss element.

21) Do smart people study a lot?

It absolutely depends on the person. Some people study very hard and have a straight B average. Others study far less and get straight A’s. You just have to do what you need to do for your type of intelligence.

22) What are your favorite Clark Gable Films?

Oh, I’d have to pick Gone With The Wind.

23) Why do really intelligent people sometimes have trouble with simple ideas?

It depends on what type of intelligence they have. But it’s true that people who excel at quantum physics and other high-level studies are often lacking in common sense and social skills. Likewise, you often see street-smart people with a lot of common sense who are not very academic or intellectual. (It’s not always true, however. There are exceptions to every rule, and some people are blessed with common sense AND mega brains.)

24) What is a good way to cure an earache?

Earaches often call for prescribed medication. However, some mild earaches can be treated with home remedies. Be sure to go to the doctor if you need to, though!

25) Do you have any ideas for unconventional ways to use lemon?

Lemons are one of those amazing, acidic fruits that are both yummy and useful. You can clean quite a few things with them, and they can also keep your house fresh if you use them right.

26) What is Olive Oil good for other than cooking?

Many, many things. Did you know it can actually help with cellulite? Here are some more uses for olive oil.

27) What are some alternative ways to remove an ink stain?

I am a firm believer in oxi-clean! I dare any stain to still be there after oxi-clean!

28) What does Terra Verde mean?

Terra Verde means “land that is green.” I named it that as a picture of resourcefulness.

29) What is your favorite biscuit recipe?

I’m partial to these biscuits which are reminiscent of Red Lobster. But I also love flaky southern biscuits!

30) What are your favorite handmade picks?

Oh, that’s a tough question. I love handmade pottery, hand-spun yarn, and anything painted, woven, spun, or sculpted. How is that for a clear answer?

31) What was the original name of Tara in Gone with the Wind?

The original name of the book was, “Tomorrow is Another Day.” Scarlett O’Hara was originally supposed to be Pansy O’Hara. But Tara (meaning “land”) was always Tara from the beginning.

32) Do you have any ideas for shopping for difficult people?

Difficult people give me a run for my money when it comes to buying presents! I always rely on no-fail presents for those types of people. Check it out here.

33) What is a natural rust inhibitor?

Baking soda dissolved in water can prevent rust if applied to metal objects.

34) I am looking for a cucumber and citrus scented candle rather than cucumber and melon. Can you make one for me?

YES! We can make any custom fragrances in our shop.

35) Have you ever made crackers? How did you do it?

I made some yummy cheese crackers once and served them with various dips. They were really good!

36) Who are some favorite famous innovators?

Tough question. I’ll have to go with Thomas Edison or Frank Lloyd Wright.

37) What crackers go well with roasted red pepper hummus?

I like to serve hummus with a buttery cracker such as a ritz cracker. It brings out the flavor of the hummus!

38) Who first recorded “Give Me the Simple Life”?

Julie London in 1959. Ella Fitzgerald made the song popular ten years later, however.

39) What are some alternate uses for newspaper?

Newspaper has many great purposes. Check it out!

40) What are your favorite purses?

These two are my favorites. But I love just about everything at this store, too.

41) How do you look at the big picture without getting distracted?

I am the most distracted person you’ve ever met, so this is probably not a good question to ask me. But I try not to load my plate up with more than I can handle. Focus on what is important right now and somehow everything will get done.

42) Is it safe to soak your clothes in fabric softener all night?

I wouldn’t do it. You don’t want it to discolor your clothes or weaken the fibers in them!

43) Is rice paper used for cleaning the face?

Yes. It was originally used in Asia, and American women started using rice paper in the 19th century. They would literally blot their faces using rice paper to absorb oils.

44) What is your favorite Shakespearean Sonnet?

I really like 73 and 116.

45) What is one thing for a marketer NOT to do in order to be successful?

Don’t be convoluted and murky. Make your point chrystal clear.

46) What did I Love Lucy look like?

Like this:

47) What was Anne of Green Gables’ favorite thing?

I can’t say for sure, but it was definitely NOT her red hair.

48) What’s a cortado?

Spanish Coffee.

49) Where is Terra Verde located?

We don’t have a physical location, but you can visit our store here!

50) Will squirting lemon juice on salad keep it from browning?

Yes, and lemon juice is also a yummy salad dressing substitute. I love fresh baby spinach leaves with vegetables, cheese, and a squirt of lemon juice!

Originally posted 2011-04-29 10:15:06.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Good Read: The Vintage Table

The Vintage Table is one of those take-your-breath-away, I-wish-my-house-looked-like-that kind of books.

I think there is something wrong with me. Pictures of beautiful houses and vintage things make me so happy.

I know. That is weird. But if you can relate to that in any small way, you must check out The Vintage Table.

My future pantry is going to look just like this. I am already scouring Etsy for the vintage bowls and recipe card boxes!

(Never mind the unmanicured fingernails…)

I love these vintage pieces. I’m a big fan.

Carnival glass. My grandma used to have some green carnival glass pieces just like these, but I don’t know where they are now.

Stunning black and white. Trust me, you’ll be pouring over this book for hours. As I do all my books, but this one is unique.

I want my house to look exactly like this. Maybe someday.

Handpainted vintage bowls are so fun.

What is it about pictures of food? I think that pictures of food are even better than eating food.

Oh, and this page has my dream dining room on it, too. I love the sturdiness of it. If you ever have the chance, I recommend checking out The Vintage Table. It’s a must-read!

Originally posted 2011-04-28 09:45:02.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
15 Comments

Real Simple Solutions

One of the books on my shelf is a fun, inspiring kind of read. At least, it is if you love taking care of your house. I read lots of books about decorating and housekeeping, and this is one of my favorites. (Along with Practically Posh, The Shabby Chic Home, and Domino anyways.)

I’ve read the Real Simple magazine for years, and I have to admit that I have a hard time throwing away old issues. I have to at least flip through it and tear out some great idea to use later.

Apparently it hasn’t helped me learn how to throw things away.

But both the magazine and this book have taught me a lot of the following things:

How to store and organize photos and greeting cards. These are a major clutter source for me.

Creative gift wrap ideas

New uses for old things

How to clean a cheese grater and other frustrating household tasks

Room by room decorating

Cleaning tips and ideas

and how to set up a workspace

If that doesn’t cover it all, I don’t know what does! If you are interested in this book, you can find it here.

Originally posted 2011-04-26 10:00:07.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Milky Tea

Milky Tea is a British thing.

(I have a thing for British things. And people, too. You know: Jane Austen, Margaret Thatcher, Princess Diana, Winston Churchill, Emma Thompson. And Colin Firth, too. The one who was in Pride & Prejudice.)

I’m drinking Milky Tea right now as I type.

It reminds me of being a kid and pretending to drink real tea and coffee like the grownups.

It also reminds me of a chapter in Little House on the Prairie when Laura Ingalls drinks cambric tea, a mixture of warm milk and honey. Apparently cambric tea is what children drank in that era because it is kinder and gentler than acidic and caffinated adult beverages.

So apparently Milky Tea is not just a British thing, but a pioneer thing too.

Here’s what you’ll need to make Milky Tea:

1 c. Milk
2 T. Honey
1 t. Vanilla

Combine ingredients in a ceramic mug. Microwave on high 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Stir.

This is my favorite website for advice related to cooking as well as cookware and other kitchen essentials. And recipes galore, too!

Originally posted 2011-04-24 09:54:45.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
1 Comment

5 Free Marketing Ideas

In my opinion, marketing is one of the most important success factors in growing your business.

Marketing is everything and everything is marketing.

Marketing is the way you talk about your business, the way others talk about your business, and the way people get to know your business. It is really important that you learn how to promote your business. If nobody knows that your business exists, how will you gain new customers?

I collect “bad marketing” stories and tuck them away in my brain. One of my favorites was a company I came into contact with at a trade show. This company was selling luxury cruises, and the representative was very well spoken and enthusiastic. However, there was a major flaw in the presentation. Apparently, they ran out of brochures prior to the trade show. I think the original brochure was a high resolution, high quality graphic showing a caribbean beach. However, instead of ordering more brochures, they xeroxed 100 copies of their last brochure in black and white. What I saw (when I squinted) was a splotchy and speckled black and white blob that presumably represented an ideal vacation.

And it was copied crooked.

My first thought was, “if your ship is built with the same quality as your brochure, you couldn’t pay me to take a cruise on it!”

Talk about a Titanic mistake!

Sorry. Bad joke.

Marketing can make it or break it. However, marketing is also expensive. Renting a billboard or taking out a high quality ad can cost you a small fortune. Especially as a start up, you don’t need to buy these things at first. Here are five ways to market your business without breaking the bank:

Think in terms of buzz. How can you get people to talk about your product and share it with others? Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube are examples of viral marketing.
Collect contact information (with permission) and send out postcards and e-mails.
Give away free samples of your product. Make sure your website URL is printed on it!
Get to know reporters at your local newspaper.
Write a press release and submit it to newspapers and magazines.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of ways to get the word out about your business. Get creative and innovative, and you’ll be unstoppable!

Below is a link to Moo, one of my favorite online printers. They have cute mini-business cards and creative ideas for marketing pieces! Of course, they have all the standard stuff, too. Check it out!

Originally posted 2011-04-22 10:39:30.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Crock Pot Pork Chops

This meal is about as easy as it gets. It is a great way for busy ladies on the go to prepare a home cooked meal. The best part is that it only takes a fraction of the prep time! These pork chops go really well with Ranch Mashed Potatoes or Flaky Southern Biscuits and green beans.

Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz. Pork Chops
18 oz. Barbecue Sauce (You can get the recipe for homemade barbecue sauce here. You will need to increase the quantity, however, as this recipe doesn’t make a full 18 oz. of barbecue sauce.)

Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce in the bottom of your crock pot. Layer chops and sauce. Top with remaining sauce. Cook on high 3-4 hours, or all day on low.

This is my favorite website for advice related to cooking as well as cookware and other kitchen essentials. And recipes galore, too!

Originally posted 2011-04-21 08:30:07.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
26 Comments

Good Read: Anne of Green Gables

Recently I saw Meghan Follows in a guest role on the show “Brothers & Sisters.” About halfway through the scene, I realized who it was.

“It’s Anne Shirley!”

But it was so weird to see Anne Shirley as anything other than Anne Shirley. Nope. Just can’t do it.

When I turned eight years old, my little sister was three days old. A neighbor took pity on me since I couldn’t have a “real” birthday party that year. So she made me a Beauty & the Beast birthday cake and brought it over with a copy of the Anne of Green Gables Movie. I didn’t know what she was getting me into at the time, but it started a lifelong love of all things Anne.

(Trivia: I love that Montgomery wrote the entire story based on a newspaper headline about an adopted child ending up in the wrong family. Talk about an imagination running wild!)

Later on, I read Anne of Green Gables and the subsequent series. I think I was about 12 when I first read Anne of Green Gables. At first it was hard to get used to Lucy Maud Montgomery’s quirky sense of humor, but I began to love it. I read the Anne series many times over the years.

Even though Lucy Maud Montgomery was truly a quirky oddity of a person, I love her books. I also read Kilmeny of the Orchard, Emily of New Moon, Blue Castle, and some of her other books as well.

Of all Montgomery’s work, Anne of Green Gables will always be my favorite.

Originally posted 2011-04-20 10:02:55.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

My Own Personal Movie Reel

I love Netflix. It’s like my own personal movie reel with their on-demand offerings. Keep turning that crank, Netflix!

Here are 25 flicks that I’ve watched a bunch of times. (Michael teases me that I don’t watch any movies that were made within the last 20 years. Well, here is my list to prove that SOME of these were made more recently than that!)

1) Arsenic and Old Lace (I watch this one on Halloween. I always watch the same movies in December, too. Check it out!)

2) Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea

3) Little Women with Winona Ryder and Little Women with Elizabeth Taylor (The one with Katherine Hepburn is really good too, but I have only seen it once.)

4) Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle (You know me– I always have to include it somehow.)

5) A Walk in the Clouds

6) Sabrina with Audrey Hepburn and Sabrina with Julia Ormond

7) The Incredibles

8) Gone With the Wind

9) Beauty and the Beast. And while I’m at it, Enchanted.

10) Roman Holiday

11) It’s a Wonderful Life

12) Desperate Housewives

13) Sense & Sensibility

14) Possession

15) Emma with Gwyneth Paltrow

16) Meet Me in St. Louis

17) Brothers & Sisters

18) The Queen

19) You’ve Got Mail

20) Chicago

21) I Love Lucy

22) While You Were Sleeping

23) Shakespeare in Love

24) Julie & Julia

25) Sleepless in Seattle

Originally posted 2011-04-19 12:12:35.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
0 comments

Cheese & Garlic Bow Tie Bake

This cheesy pasta bake is really good! While I prefer my classic stovetop mac n’ cheese, this one is a great picnic addition or side dish. It’s a little more formal, but not TOO much.

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 c. Bow Tie noodles
4 T. Butter
1 Onion, diced
1/2 c. Milk
1 c. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/2 c. Bread Crumbs
1/2 t. Italian Seasoning
1 T. Garlic, minced
Salt & Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 F. Cook and drain noodles. Set aside. In saucepan or dutch oven, melt 2 T. butter. Add onion and garlic. Saute. Add spices, milk, and cheese. When cheese is melted, mix in cooked noodles. Transfer to oven proof pan if using a sauce pan. Sprinkle bread crumbs and extra cheese on top. Dice 2 T. butter and sprinkle on top. Bake at 350 F for 45 min.

Buon appetito!

This is my favorite website for advice related to cooking as well as cookware and other kitchen essentials. And recipes galore, too!

Originally posted 2011-04-17 08:37:23.

March 1, 2012
by Angie
2 Comments

Emotional Intelligence Series

Emotional Intelligence is a pretty hot topic right now.

And why shouldn’t it be? Our view of intelligence is changing a lot.

It used to be that the “smart people” were the left brained people who got high paying jobs in engineering, architecture, and science.

While that is true- those people are definitely smart, no contest- behavior specialists are discovering multiple facets and types of intelligent people.

You know, the kind of “smart people” who have common sense, social skills, and a variety of abilities.

It is a very interesting study. I’ve done some reading and writing about it, so here are some links below to the things I’ve written about emotional intelligence.

And stay tuned, too, because there are more articles coming in the near future!

Without further ado:

Get the book: Click Here to read about the book, “Emotional Intelligence for Dummies.” I highly recommend it as a practical resource!

Please keep in mind as you read these articles that I am an ordinary person with a degree in Communications, not Psychology. I’m not a doctor, and this was written as a means of provoking thought about emotional intelligence, not as any kind of medical advice or diagnosis. Please consult your doctor for medical advice on this subject.

Originally posted 2011-04-16 10:32:25.