The Holidays Are Upon Us In The Greater Seattle Area – Important Tips For Pet Owners This Season

December 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

Christmas is just around the corner. Decorations are going up in many homes. If you are a pet owner, there are some important reminders to make this a safe and happy season for your 4-legged best friend.

Poinsettias are Poisonous

Mistletoe is Poisonous 

Keep Chocolate & Alcohol Out of Reach

Keep an eye out for broken decorations, tree hooks, strands of lights, candy dishes, tinsel and gift wrap.

Remind family and friends not to feed your dog or cat anything not on their approved diet

Keep their water bowls refreshed

Parties and entertaining can stress pets so keep this in mind to avoid problems.

 

 

 

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December Around The Greater Seatte Area – Your Guide To December In Seattle

November 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

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Working Off Your Thanksgiving Feast Can Be Fun- Here’s How

November 20, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

Ah, the holidays. Thanksgiving marks the the beginning of that feast filled season of the year. And if you’re like us, it’s also when you start wondering how you’re going to fit into your favorite pair of jeans after it’s all over. But don’t worry. Luckily, there are plenty of fun ways to burn those extra calories. Try these four outdoor activities:

Activity #1: Participate in a Turkey Trot- The name of this activity implies just that: a fun run that occurs on Thanksgiving Day. The tradition began when runners who anticipated feasting on a Thanksgiving meal decided to run before doing so, burning off many calories and therefore preparing themselves to take in candied yams and green bean casseroles. The original Turkey Trot began in the 1940s in Dallas. It was held at Fair Park in the city and consisted of an 8-mile course. Today, many of the cities and organizations that sponsor this event also donate proceeds to local charities. Just type in your city and “turkey trot” into your search bar to find one near you. Registering for this exciting event benefits both your physical health as well as others in need.

Activity #2: Take a Hike- Check out your local trails and encourage your Thanksgiving company to tag along for some outdoor air, sights, sounds, and smells that aren’t gravy or stuffing related. One of the best ways to get some exercise and spend time with the people around you, hiking never fails to give everyone a sense of appreciation for nature that can really be elevated during a holiday that is all about giving thanks. And remember — some of these trails can always incorporate other activities such as biking or jogging. Remember to check the maps for a safe and well-informed expedition!

Activity #3: Go Swimming – To many people, cold-water swimming sounds crazy. But this sport takes place in many countries around the world — some people believe it is a great stress reliever while others believe it provides health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and burning major calories. Whatever the case may be, you don’t necessarily have to be somewhere snowy to take advantage of this sport. Be bold, daring, but safe this holiday season by joining an established group, taking it slowly, and entering the water feet first. This sport will get both your adrenaline and blood pumping! (Note: If you have an underlying health issue, talk to your doctor before attempting this activity.)

Activity #4: Play Ball – Instead of watching football on the television while the pies are baking in the oven, go outside and play football. The great thing about Thanksgiving is that since your relatives and friends are visiting, you have enough people to play flag football. Establish your teams, then enjoy the crisp outdoors while getting some great exercise and family bonding. Or, if your family members aren’t football fans, play some basketball or softball. It doesn’t take too much equipment to go to your local park and get involved in some serious game time before or after feast time.

Whatever your plans are for the big Thanksgiving feast, my hope is that you spend it with family, friends, and loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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How To Raise Chickens In The Greater Seattle Area

November 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment

How do you like your eggs? Factory farms that produce eggs are just as polluting as the ones that produce meat, but if you raise your own chickens, you can make sure that they’re pastured and organic. And how much more local can you get than your own yard?

Eggs from hens allowed to peck on pasture are a heck of a lot better than those from chickens raised in cages! Most of the eggs currently sold in supermarkets are nutritionally inferior to eggs produced by hens raised on pasture. That’s the conclusion we have reached following completion of the 2007 Mother Earth Newsegg testing project. Our testing has found that, compared to official U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) nutrient data for commercial eggs, eggs from hens raised on pasture may contain:

• 1⁄3 less cholesterol• 1⁄4 less saturated fat• 2⁄3 more vitamin A• 2 times more omega-3 fatty acids• 3 times more vitamin E• 7 times more beta carotene

Chickens make for entertaining and easily cared-for pets, and as a bonus,they lay delicious, nutritious eggs. And while it’s true that chickens can’t live in an apartment, you don’t need acres of land to provide eggs for yourself. Read 5 steps to starting your own flock:

1. Laying Laws

Not all cities allow their citizens to keep chickens, unfortunately, and many have limits on how many chickens you can own or whether you can own roosters. Most require permits as well. But from Jersey City to Los Angeles, the country is speckled with chicken-keeping oases. Even if your city doesn’t allow backyard chickens, there are several instances where citizens have raised support and changed the law. Learn about your local chicken laws by searching your city here.

2. Get Cooped Up

Chicken coops come in many shapes and sizes, but all need a roof, walls, perches, nesting boxes filled with straw, food and water bowls, and a heat lamp for cold winters. Outside of the coop, there’s usually a fenced area, or “run,” to let the chickens walk around and dust bathe. The run usually has netting on top to keep predators out.  Another possibility is a “chicken tractor,” a coop on wheels that you can move around your lawn for free lawn mowing and fertilizer (just make sure there’s no chemicals on your grass). Coops can be purchased online, or you can get clever and build your own. Just make sure you can clean the coop and get the eggs out easily.

3. Find Your Flock

There are dozens and dozens of chicken breeds to choose from, but look for a “layer” or “dual-purpose” heritage breed for the best eggs and hardiest chickens. You’re probably going to want female chicks, since roosters don’t lay eggs and are sometimes not even allowed in urban areas. Mail-ordered chicks are usually not sold in small numbers, so unless you’re starting with a flock of 20 hens, then you might want to check out your local feed store. A feed store is an all-purpose shop for farmers, and if they don’t sell chicks, they’ll probably know someone who does. Chicks need special care. You can also buy “pullets,” or teenager hens. They usually start laying eggs at 4-6 months old.

4. Feed ‘em

You can usually buy “layer” feed for hens at the feed store (chicks and pullets require their own kinds of feed), or make your own out of different grains, seeds, and legumes. Many recipes for homemade chicken feed are available online. However, all chickens need calcium (usually from ground oyster shells), grit (sand or dirt, which is not a problem for free-range hens), and lots of water. “Scratch” is a chicken treat combined with entertainment: whole grains scattered on the ground for the hens to search for before eating. Chickens are also great recyclers, and will happily nibble lawn clippings, weeds, and vegetable trimmings. They’ll even forage in your garden for insects and leaves, if you let them. Chicken manure makes fantastic compost, in case you were wondering.

5. Enjoy Your Eggs!

Once they’re old enough, hens will start to lay. If they don’t lay in their boxes, put a golf ball there to tell them it’s a good spot for eggs. A flock of 3-4 chickens will produce 1-2 dozen fresh eggs per week (more eggs in the spring and summer than in the winter), which is more than enough for most families. Homegrown eggs will have dirt on them, so wash them off before eating, like you would whole fruit.

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Sustainable Meat Guide For The Greater Seattle Area

November 12, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

The Holidays are just around the corner. I don’t know about you, but I want to know where my meat/poultry comes from.

Let’s face it, there’s nothing eco-friendly about factory farms. When servings of eggs, dairy, and meat come packaged with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, groundwater contamination, animal cruelty, and hormones, we wouldn’t blame you for losing your appetite. But there are still ways to eat meat without unduly burdening the earth.

One big advantage of getting your meat, eggs, and dairy from a local farm as opposed to a giant, faceless corporation, is that you can actually talk to the farmer. Visit your local farmers’ market or check out Eat Wild’s farm directory to find free-range livestock farmers in your state, many of whom sell shares in meat CSAs. You can ask them questions to find a farm that matches your own standards for land and livestock stewardship.

Here are six good questions to get the conversation started:

     1.) Are your animals fed with organic feed?

     2.) Are your animals raised on pasture?

All livestock will eat grass, and not only are they healthier for it, but their meat, milk, and eggs have been found to contain more omega-3s than animals that eat no grass. Pastured animals will also spread their manure out on fields, where it can decompose naturally.

     3.)  Are your cows and lambs “grass finished”?

“Finishing” is also known as “fattening up,” and grain is a healthy part of the diet of poultry and pigs, but wreaks havoc on the digestive systems of cows and sheep. “Corn-finished” or “grain-finished” meat comes from livestock that ate little but grain and other processed supplements for the last six months of their lives, while “grass-finished” animals were fattened up on the pasture. Even pastured dairy cows usually eat some grain for extra nutrients, but should still eat mostly grass.

     4.) How do you handle your animals’ manure?

Manure is a huge pollutant in feedlots, where it seeps into groundwater and rivers. If your farmer tells you that the manure is left in “lagoons,” then it means they’re leaving it untreated, where it can pollute local water systems.

     5.) Do you give antibiotics to healthy animals?

Often, antibiotics are used to keep farm animals healthy when they’re too overcrowded and stressed to fight off disease. This has caused a widespread rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. If farmers only use antibiotics on animals that are actually sick, you know that they’ll have been raised in a healthier environment.

     6.) Do you use heritage breeds?

Many “modern” livestock breeds can’t even survive outside of climate-controlled cages, but ‘heritage” livestock are bred to live outside, and are healthier, heartier animals overall.

 

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A Sustainable Thanksgiving – Let’s Talk Turkey

November 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love getting together with family and friends to give thanks for all our blessings. It’s the most celebrated (and most heavily traveled!) time of the year. Thanksgiving is a time to share, to give, and to be grateful for all that we have.

It’s also one of the best holidays for cooking, eating and more eating. The centerpiece for most Thanksgiving tables is the turkey. Choosing a turkey that is fresh, local and truly good for you can be confusing not to mention expensive. I look at it as I do with most food I eat – you are what you eat. Therefore, I always buy, at the least, an organic turkey. Why does it matter what type of turkey you buy?

What’s wrong with the Turkey?
The traditional Thanksgiving turkey is different today than it was 50 years ago. Today, 99% of all turkeys raised in the U.S. are the “Broadbreasted White” variety (sometimes also referred to as the “Large White”).

These birds are raised in confinement in extremely crowded conditions on factory farms.  They live in unnatural, uncomfortable conditions and are fed a steady diet of grain and supplements like antibiotics, rather than the grubs, bugs and grasses they should eat.

They are produced because of their large, white meaty breast. The breasts of these turkeys are so large that they are unable to reproduce naturally. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, without artificial insemination performed by humans, this variety of bird would become extinct in just one generation.

Industrial turkeys are often injected with saline solution and vegetable oils in an attempt to help improve the taste and texture of the meat. These factory farmed birds tend to be dry and tasteless, so cooks have developed a variety of methods to try to improve the taste. Turkeys are now marinated, brined, deep fried and covered with syrups, spices and herbs.

You Do Have Options

You can prepare a healthy bird. There are many options including:

Heritage turkeys
There is a movement to reintroduce different varieties of turkeys back to the public. Many of these birds originated here in the United States . Groups like Slow Food USA and the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy are working to re-introduce genetically diversified varieties of animals, including turkeys, that were raised years ago. These animals are often referred to as “heritage” breeds.

Heritage turkeys are raised outdoors, freely roam on pasture, and eat the varied diet nature intended them to eat, unlike most turkeys today that are raised indoors in confinement and are fed grains, fillers and supplements like antibiotics.

Whereas conventional supermarket turkeys can be tasteless and dry, heritage birds raised outdoors are juicy and succulent and taste the way a turkey is supposed to taste.

Not only do heritage turkeys taste better, they are genetically diverse, which is extremely important. The factory farmed Broadbreasted Whites, 99% of all turkeys, are genetically the same, which means an illness could spread through that breed and wipe them out. By raising genetically diverse turkeys, we are ensuring the survival of the species.

Heritage turkeys cost more money, but consumers rave about the great taste and say once you buy one, you can’t go back to the tasteless white turkeys found in most supermarkets. The one drawback to buying a bird is that in many cases you must order in advance. Many farmers only grow enough turkeys to cover the demand, so most consumers order their birds months in advance. You can still find heritage turkeys locally by checking with your local natural food markets, local farmers and meat shops, and don’t forget to check on Craigslist, where some small farmers offer these delectable birds for less since they don’t have as much overhead cost.

Organic and sustainable turkeys
If you aren’t ready yet to buy a heritage turkey, or can’t find one, your other option is to buy an organic and/or sustainable bird. An organic turkey is certified by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and must be raised under strict guidelines – no antibiotics, no growth enhancers, only organic feed, and the animals must be given access to outdoors. The animals can be a heritage breed, or the more common Broadbreasted White. Farmers who raise sustainable turkeys are not overseen by any group or agency, and have no legal guidelines to follow, though many actually exceed the USDA organic standards when raising their birds. Sustainable farmers look to preserve the land, treat their animals and workers humanely, and help support the local community. Sustainable turkeys can be a heritage breed, or can also be the Broadbreasted White.

What’s the difference between a heritage, organic and sustainable turkey?
A heritage turkey has a specific set of genetic traits and was raised years ago. Almost all heritage turkeys are near extinction, so efforts are underway to reintroduce them to the public. Even though there aren’t legal or set guidelines for heritage animals, to be truly heritage the animal must have a specific set of genetic traits and be raised sustainably. And by the very nature of their breed, it is almost impossible to raise heritage animals any other way than sustainably. The animals must be raised on pasture and be given room to carry out their natural behaviors. But if you are purchasing a heritage animal and want details on how the bird was raised, call and ask the farmer.

Organic and sustainable farmers raise all types of turkeys – some raise heritage breeds, but others raise the Broadbreasted Whites, the type of turkey found on factory farms. The difference is that these animals are treated humanely and are not subjected to the same conditions as on a factory farm.

The sure way to know what you are buying is to buy a local bird.

Gobble! Gobble!

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Anna’s Hummingbirds Stay In The Greater Seattle Area All Year

November 9, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

 

I love my hummingbirds and have several feeders out in the warmer months. Did you know that Anna’s Hummingbirds stay here all year long? They need our help when our flowers retreat for the winter. Here are some facts and tips to keep these fascinating birds happy and healthy.

Hummingbirds have a high metabolism, and while they have ways to keep themselves warm, including going into a torpor at night to preserve energy, a sudden cold snap can be deadly if they don’t have a reliable source of nectar to replenish their energy. Low nighttime temperatures can freeze hummingbird sugar water, and night-starved birds may have to wait for hours for the nectar to thaw enough for drinking. Furthermore, frozen nectar can also crack or otherwise damage hummingbird feeders, making them less useful for feeding hummingbirds all year round.

There are several tricks that can help keep hummingbird nectar from freezing even in the coldest weather:

Sweeter Nectar: The typical hummingbird nectar recipe is a solution of one part sugar to four parts water, and this solution begins to freeze at 27 degrees Fahrenheit (-2.8 Celsius). More sugar will help lower the freezing point of the solution, and a solution of one part sugar to only three parts water is more suitable for cold weather. Not only will it stay unfrozen in slightly colder temperatures, but it will also provide a stronger source of energy for hungry hummingbirds.

Protected Feeders: Chilly breezes can cool off nectar and freeze it more quickly, and placing a hummingbird feeder in a protected area, such as on a covered porch or under a deep eave, will keep it unfrozen for longer periods. This also keeps the feeder from getting covered with snow or ice that can clog feeding ports.

Heating the Feeder: Hanging an industrial work light or outdoor flood light near a hummingbird feeder can help heat the nectar to keep it liquid. Ideally, the light should be 8-12 inches from the feeder so the heat generated from the incandescent bulb can keep the nectar from freezing, but be sure all cords and outlets are protected from moisture and potential short circuits.

Use Window Feeders: Attaching hummingbird feeders to windows from a heated room can help transfer some of the heat to the feeder and keep the nectar from freezing. This works best on single paned windows, but can be useful on any windows.

Bring Feeders Indoors: On the very coldest nights, it may be best to bring hummingbird feeders indoors where they will not be able to freeze. Hummingbirds need to feed very early in the morning, however, even before sunrise, and it is essential to replace the feeders outdoors as soon as the birds need them. On very cold days, keeping several feeders filled with nectar can be helpful, and the feeders can be rotated indoors and out so there is always a liquid supply of nectar available.

Insulate Feeders: Wrapping the reservoir of a nectar feeder with bubble wrap or other insulation can protect it from freezing. Cover as much of the bottle as possible but do not block the feeding ports, and take other steps as well to keep the feeder warm and unfrozen.

Lighted Feeders: Wrapping a strand of holiday lights (non-LED) around the bottle of a hummingbird feeder can generate enough warmth to keep the nectar from freezing. Using red or pink lights also adds a glowing welcome that can attract hungry winter hummingbirds. Be sure the light strand is in good condition before wrapping it around a feeder, however, and avoid using any lights with frayed cords or other damage. This technique is best with glass feeders, just in case the lights are up against the surface of the feeder.

Snow Baffles: Covering a hummingbird feeder keeps it from getting choked with freezing rain, ice and snow and will help keep the nectar itself from freezing. Choose a wide baffle, and preferably one with room for small perches underneath where the hummingbirds can rest while waiting for a chance to drink. A dark colored baffle can also attract small amounts of heat that will help keep the area around the feeder warmer.

Tips for Feeding Winter Hummingbirds:

While keeping hummingbird nectar from freezing is essential for feeding these small birds in the winter, there are other tips to keep in mind to ensure the hummingbirds are healthy even through the coldest season.

  • Keep feeders clean to prevent mold and fungus that can be fatal to hummingbirds.
  • Refill feeders frequently so there is always an adequate supply of nectar for all overwintering hummingbirds.
  • Take care that any cords or lights used to warm feeders are not in danger of shorting out.

Hummingbirds can be a surprise in winter areas, but backyard birders who keeping hummingbird nectar from freezing can help these small flying jewels thrive even in the coldest temperatures.

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November Around Seattle – A Guide to Events, Information and Articles for the Greater Seattle Area

November 1, 2012 By Leave a Comment

 

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What Do You Know About Wild Salmon Spawning?

October 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Salmon are very important to the Pacific Northwest way of life. From tribal traditions to a fisherman’s livelihood, these amazing creatures make an incredible journey this time of year. I am fortunate to live close to a spawning stream and have been watching these fish make their difficult trip. I decided to do some research on spawning and realized that I had a lot of misconceptions about this journey. How much do you really know? Take this quiz to find out. It’s part of the northwest culture.

What Do You Know About Wild Salmon Spawning?.

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Lighting Choices Can Keep You Cool During Summer Weather In Greater Seattle Area

July 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Summer has finally arrived in Seattle. Are you looking for ways to save energy AND stay cool this summer? Consider your lighting choices:

If you’ve already switched from incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescents (CFLs), congratulations! Traditional incandescents  waste 90% of their energy as heat – something you really don’t want to be paying for, especially in summer. CFLs not only run cooler, they use 75% less energy overall, and last up to 10 times longer. If you’re thinking of switching, do it now – don’t wait until your current light bulbs burn out. Here’s why: Suppose you replace five 60-watt incandescent bulbs that you use 4 hours per day with five 15-watt CFLs. CFL-CalculatorA year from now, you will have saved almost $27 in energy costs. Put another way, it will cost you $27 to continue using those old incandescent bulbs for another year.

  • New lighting labels, which began showing up on packaging earlier this year, make it easier to compare one bulb to another and find the lumens (brightness) and wattage (energy use) that best meet your needs. Watch this helpful video from the Federal Trade Commission for an overview.
  • More lighting choices! CFL bulbs now come in a range of specialty shapes, sizes, and color temperatures to fit virtually every socket in your home. LED bulbs are even more efficient and long-lasting than CFLs. And, manufacturers have recently found new ways to make LED bulbs brighter and less costly, so their variety and popularity is on the rise as well.

Other tips for saving energy on your lighting this summer:

  • If your porch or other outdoor lights are triggered by timers, now’s the time to update your settings to take advantage of summer’s long hours of daylight.
  • Install motion-activated fixtures and you’ll reduce electricity consumed by your outdoor security lighting up to 80%. Motion sensors are typically inexpensive and easy to install, but if you’re not familiar or comfortable with electrical work, consult an electrician for assistance. SAVINGS: Up to 20 kWh per bill ($10 per year)
  • Solar-powered lights are a great option for decorative lighting along pathways and in landscaped areas. Typically, the lights are on stakes with an integrated solar collection panel and storage battery. Find them at garden, hardware and home improvement stores. SAVINGS: Up to 20 kWh per bill ($10 per year)
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Lynn Newcomb, Seattle REALTOR® With over 22 years experience in residential real estate, Lynn feels strongly that service is the key to satisfied customers. Lynn's passion for the environment prompted her to be one of Washington's first EcoBrokers. She is excited to assist both buyers and sellers in making choices that will lessen their footprint on the earth. Contact Lynn.