Toxic Toys

I picked out an article to read in Dec/Jan 09 issue of "Mary Jane's Farm" covering the use of Phthalates in toys. I had not heard much about this chemical, but am concerned and want to put out bloggage about it.
As usual, the USA is now coming up to the times and completely banning this chemical and finding a safer alternative to use as a softening agent in the plastics for children's toys. In 2009 we should see the big chains stop selling toys containing the chemicals.
Concerning me most of course, is that the chemical has been found to disrupt hormonal and reproductive development in children.
I am concerned, now, about the plastics used in pacifiers, and if those soft plastics are safe. My grandbabies have used those.
The article I read sites National Geographic's Green Guide as source of info on this topic. That site has lots of "Green" info, but looks like you have to subscribe to get into the fact finding articles area.
I am including 2 more links to check out, as well:
Toxic-Free Kids
Coming Clean
The Daily Green

Happy 22nd Birthday Hanna Rose!!!

This date, 22 years ago, I was expecting my 5th child. I was told I was having another boy, which would have given us 4 sons. To my suprise and delight, my 5th child was a girl...our Hanna Rose, our lovely California Rose. Hanna, at 22 years has inherited the Itailan genes from her father's side that comes with self assurance and intense family loyality and devotion. And she definately has her dad's sense of humor! From my Russian, German heritage she has inherited a steady temperment and calm demeaner (self control), that, and she is a fantastic listener makes her the best person I know to talk to about anything...and makes her a great mom to her two little boys!!! Happy Birthday to my sweet Hanna Rose, I am so glad to have you in my life...God Bless You!

Who Makes the Best Kingcake?

Who?

I've got a link to "Chowhound" where the debate is going on...check it out.

I have my own recipe on Gypsy Pies's Kitchen.

I will be shipping one from... (I haven't decided, yet) to my lovely daughter, Hanna, in Georgia for her birthday coming up on January 20th...!

Corn Bread!!!
My favorite will be slightly, well more than slightly sweet, salty, chewy, crispy on the outside, chewy and moist on the inside. I have my favorite, but I know so does everyone else. Spanish Floridians love the sweeetest cornbread cakey loaves. Louisian'ins love the salty sweet version. I prefer the batter poured into and baked in greased hot cast iron molds, for the crispiest exterior. My recipe: Gypsy Pie's Kitchen Cornbread
And here it is the 13th National Cornbread Festival in South Pittsburg Tennessee, coming April 25th and 26th.

Resolutions

Pray and Read my Bible. I am taking the "Love Dare" and am on the 4 th day. there is a fast coming. Not dieting any special ways, just going to use good sense and also, will continue to watch the labels to prevent Chinese made foods from getting into our house.
Happy New Year, to all, God Bless you~!