Picnic Safety

Summer has officially arrived! Like many of you, I like spending time outdoors especially having cookouts, picnics and other activities centered around food. Good food, fun, and family are my summer favorites. But before planning any outdoor food activity, here are a few simple tips to consider to ensure that unwanted bacteria won’t have a … Read More


Hot Chocolate weather is upon us, drink up!

Warm drinks are a must have for me and my family in the cold winter months, but all those empty calories can add up quickly! According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Americans consume 20 teaspoons of added sugars daily. Keep in mind that the American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 … Read More


Homemade gifts this season for lower costs

Gift giving for any occasion can often be expensive, especially when you purchase several gifts at one time. I actually began to make homemade food gifts that were not only made from the heart but were healthy for the heart too! I was able to remember those special special neighbors, church friends, and teachers with … Read More


Get Active and Stay Active during the Holidays!

During the holidays it can be difficult to maintain your usual workout schedule. In an effort to reach your physical activity needs try to switch it up! If you are crunched for time try fitting in time at work during your lunch break! You could go for a brisk walk or even do chair exercises … Read More


Stay Active to Avoid Stress

Staying active is sometimes hard to do especially if you work and have children. Our friends at the American Diabetes Association share some ideas about how physical activity is a natural stress reliever. It also helps control blood glucose levels, lower blood pressure, and provides many other health benefits. Don’t let the hustle and bustle … Read More


Cook Your Turkey Safely

Improperly prepared turkey gives harmful bacteria the opportunity to grow and cause foodborne illnesses. Although there are several ways to prepare the turkey its internal temperature should reach 165˚ Fahrenheit. This should be determined with a food thermometer. Check the temperature in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the … Read More


Reduce Your Holiday Stress

Is just thinking about the holidays stressing you out? As moms, we know we have the house to clean and decorate, gifts to buy and wrap, meals to plan and prepare, and money to squeeze from somewhere to support it all. This year, to eliminate the stress and truly enjoy the holidays, follow these easy … Read More


Safe food, safe time this holiday season

It’s that time of year again! Family and friends get together to enjoy food outside during picnics and cook outs. These events are a great way to spend quality time while enjoying the outdoors and nature. It’s important to have fun, but keeping your food safe by storing and handling it properly is critical while … Read More


Heart Healthy Tips

Thinking about what to do on Valentine’s Day for those who hold a special place in your heart? Take a look at the suggestions from the American Heart Association below. They share some practical and health conscious ideas that have more value and show a deeper love than a box of chocolates or a dozen … Read More


Turkey dinner, turkey leftovers: now what?

My family loves turkey leftovers as much as they love the freshly baked turkey. I look forward to preparing different dishes with the leftovers. My husband’s job is to pull the meat off the bone, put it in plastic bags, and refrigerate it. Once this is done, we sit down and ask our family what … Read More


© 2024 North Carolina Cooperative Extension
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)

North Carolina State University
Agricultural and Human Sciences Department

Cooperative Extension at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)

For our disclaimer, liability, and contact information click here