As kids and parents return to busy schedules full of sports, homework and weeknight activities, building a plan for nutritious and easy meals can be challenging. Piecing together a menu that fuels active minds without spending hours in the kitchen is a common goal for many families. These recipes require minimal prep and call for on-hand ingredients like dairy food ...

As children head back to school and parents work to balance hectic schedules, it can be difficult to maintain a meal plan that doesn’t consume too much time. Make your morning meals, lunchbox packing and meal prepping easier by including time-saving hacks like easy-to-use ingredients and recipes. Getting back into a routine can be stressful, but Cheesy Quinoa Bites offer ...

By Ron Allen, UC Master Gardener, Mariposa County Right now we are in the midst of extreme, widespread drought. One telltale indication is that oak trees in Mariposa County are dropping their leaves. What should one do? You don’t need to do much, but you should avoid basic mistakes. Here are some guidelines. Avoid disturbing the ground within 6 feet of ...

A healthy breakfast can give your student a boost that lasts all day long. Mornings tend to be rushed, but it’s still possible to prepare easy breakfasts that power little learners throughout the school day. Fresh fruit is a breakfast staple, and a nutritious option like watermelon is a sweet way to satisfy hunger (and thirst). As a refreshing ingredient ...

OAKHURST — You are invited to participate with Plant a Row and donate extra produce from your garden to be distributed to local residents in need of fresh, nutritious produce. Fresh produce donations will be accepted at Heritage House (5200 State Hwy 49N) on Mondays only from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and at Manna House (5127 Charles St) Monday ...

After more than a year of nearly constant companionship, many pet parents are preparing to leave their pets at home while they transition back to the office. With more time away from home, it’s important for families to be prepared in the event of a fire. As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, a vast majority of pet owners (91%) said they ...

There are no alarms set and you are cuddled up in bed after a good night’s sleep. It’s late morning and there is nowhere to go, no rushing around to do. No school bus, no work to be done, just relaxing at home with loved ones. However, breakfast is calling your name. Your stomach rumbles as your stumble toward the kitchen. ...

Finding a unique dessert to impress others can be a tall task. Cakes, brownies and cookies are classics but can be boring and repetitive. When you want something easy, delicious and made to impress, think outside the sweet treat box. Next time you’re in a pinch for something sweet, try these sopapilla bars. They have a sugary, crunchy exterior, but ...

Consider these hazards that can negatively impact the well-being of your furry friends. Poisonous Plants – Some common plants can be dangerous for animals, causing anything from mild oral irritations and upset stomachs to cardiovascular damage and even death. For example, these are some of the toxic plants the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has ...

While there are many ways to enhance the taste and texture of your family’s favorite dishes, perhaps one of the simplest and most impactful is the addition of cheese. From fish and seafood to veggie-inspired recipes, the dairy delight provides a versatile, flavorful ingredient. You can also use queso fresco to elevate the flavor of dishes like chilaquiles, or turn to ...