Safe Winter Driving

Sustainably Sadie

Safe Winter Driving

As we head towards Spring, we also are heading towards the time of year when we in Southwest Montana can see our most intense snow storms of the year.  Warmer weather can make for slushy driving conditions.  Wind and freezing temps make for icy, slippery roads.  Post your sustainably driving tips at the new Sustainably Sadie Facebook page.

Good friends of ours were recently in a one-car, no-fault accident resultant of icy roads.  Safety features protected the family of four and while the car was totaled, our four friends were blessedly able to walk away, unscathed.  Their amazing luck of no serious injuries didn’t stop law enforcement from issuing a ticket for lack of proper upkeep of their vehicle.  They were issued a ticket for $85 because the tires were considered improper for winter driving.  Tires are a huge expense; plan to replace them as needed.  Save for the annual/ bi-annual expense, and save yourself from the possible hassle of being fined.  Law enforcement insists on proper vehicle maintenance to help protect against the eventuality of an accident. 

I also recommend keeping a shovel, sleeping bag, water and snacks as well as a bottle of washer fluid in the car.  The slushy roads can limit visibility.  Being able to wash away the dirty spray from semi-trucks can be incredibly helpful. 

Give potentially-squirrely semi-truck drivers plenty of room.  On bad roads it’s never a good idea to follow any vehicle too closely; give your fellow travelers space so everyone can make it to their destinations safely.  Giving the vehicle in front of you plenty of space can help to prevent cracked windshields from flying rocks as the roads are often covered in gravel these days. 

Icy roads also make it more difficult to slow down for deer and other animals crossing the road.  When one deer crosses the road, I scan the burrow pit for his friends that also may bound across the roadway.  Pay attention to the daily migration of the deer and you should be aware of which direction they will be coming from when they do cross.  Keep that in mind if traveling dirt roads and you may save yourself expense when a deer jumps into the roadway.  Where my parents live in Waterloo, it is helpful to know that the deer travel to the river to hide in the safety of the willows during the day and they sneak back out to the hayfields under the cover of night. 

Drive safe!  And as I mentioned above, share your tips at the new Sustainably Sadie Facebook page, *Like* the page and follow along as we journey toward a more sustainable life.  Feel free to share at the blog, www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or email sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  Thanks for reading!

Twin Bits

Ruby Valley community organizations are joining forces to look for solutions to the recent lack of volunteers to serve these organizations.  Please join the TBCA (Twin Bridges Community Association) this Friday, Feb. 1, 8:30 am at The Old Hotel in Twin Bridges to discuss the planning of a “Ruby Valley Philanthropy Rally.”  Contact Paula Kinoshita, 684-5959 or email oldhotel@3rivers.net with questions or information requests.  Your community needs your support!

As part of the Big Read project, there will be a Twin Bridges Book Club/ community discussion of Willa Cather’s book, My Antonia, at the MT Room at TBS, Monday Feb. 11 at 7 pm.  Mrs. Kelly Downing’s sophomore class is participating in the discussion and there will be pizza.  Please contact Mary Beth Walsh (mwalsh@rubyvalleybank.com) so she can have a head count for pizza. 

From TBS Calendar:

Wed Jan 30:  Elementary Science Fair @ MP gym

Thurs Jan 31:  JrHi BBB @ Three Forks Tourney; Elementary Science Fair Awards, MP Gym, 8:20 am

Fri Feb 1:  BB @ Manhattan Christian, GBGB, 4 pm

Sat Feb 2:  JrHi BBB @ Three Forks Tourney; Wrestling Divisional Tourney @ Dillon; BB w/ Ennis @ Home, BGBG, 2:30 pm; FFA Alumni Silent Dessert Auction, Gym Lobby, 3 pm; Little Dribblers (boys) play at half-time of varsity games

Mon Feb 4:  BB w/ Butte HS “C” squads @ Home, G- 5pm/ B- 7pm; JrHi BBB @ Sheridan, 4 pm; Honors Band & Choir @ Ennis;

Tues Feb 5:  BB @ Lima, 4:30 pm; JrJi BBB w/ Whitehall @ Home, 4:30 pm

Wed Feb 6:  Elementary Spelling Bee @ MT Room, 1 pm; Booster Club Mtg @ MT Room, 6 pm

Thurs Feb 7:  Elementary Dental Screening; Jv BB @ Dillon, BG, 6 pm

Fri Feb 8:  State Wrestling @ Billings; BB w/ Lima @ Home, BG, 5:30 pm, Senior Night!

Sat. Feb 9:  State Wrestling @ Billings; JrHi BBB 2 West Yellowstone tourney; BB @ Sheridan, 4 pm, BBG

Mon Feb 11:  JrHi BBB @ Cardwell, 4 pm

Feb 13-15:  District Basketball tournaments, Boys & Girls @ Butte MAC

Mon Feb 18:  No School, President’s Day

Feb. 20- 23:  Divisional Basketball tournaments, Boys & Girls @ Hamilton

I am here to promote activities and events in the Ruby Valley.  Please contact me at the above Sustainably Sadie address, call me at 684-5222 or snail mail: P.O. Box 491, 59754. 

Cold & Flu Season

Sustainably Sadie

Cold & Flu Season

I’ve heard it referred to as an “epidemic”—the worst flu season yet.  For this family with a newborn, we’ve gone into seclusion in order to avoid germs.  A fever for our little guy could be seriously dangerous—so we hide out and avoid public places as much as possible.  Constant hand washing, carrying hand sanitizer in our pockets, we’re taking all precautions to keep the flu out of our home.

That being said, we’ve all had an annoying cold this past week.  It started with a sore throat.  The boys both have runny noses.  I’ve been drinking tea all day long, making sure to stay hydrated.  I was thrilled to be able to get Ginger tea and Emergen-C from The Health Emporium in Sheridan.  And amazing friends gave us local honey.  Honey is a great way to treat sore throat and illness.  It is an alternative to cough-suppressants, is anti-bacterial and anti-viral.  Ginger will also calm a cough as well as soothe an upset stomach and strengthen the immune system. 

My favorite treatment when feeling poorly is a Hot Toddy.  My family recipe is a shot of whisky, lemon juice and honey in hot water.  The warm, soothing drink induces a restful sleep; it could be made without the alcohol, just lemon and honey in hot water can be equally healing. 

Even though we’re hiding out, we’ve been doctor-advised to get fresh air daily.  According to the Herbs & Oils blog that I follow on Facebook, a dose cold air can also soothe a ferocious cough (http://www.commonsensehome.com/home-remedies-for-coughs/).  Airing out the home can be a good idea for those, like us, cooped up during these flu-months.  I try to air out the house during the warmest part of the day so the heating bill doesn’t get too out of control and also right as we’re about to head out the door so the boys don’t get too chilled. 

It is also a great time of year to make soup.  Soup can be incredibly healing and simple to make.  Sauté onions, garlic, carrots and celery in olive oil.  Add grated ginger if you like.  A splash of wine, add broth or even just water.  You can add some cooked meat or keep it vegetarian then spice up with your favorite hot sauce or chili powder.  The spice will help fight off illness. 

Search Pinterest.com for other DIY cold/ flu treatments.  I’ve seen recipes for making your own vapor rubs or shower melts using essential oils, Eucalyptus and Peppermint.  When baby Ruben seems especially stuffy in the middle of the night, I rub a couple of drops of Eucalyptus essential oil on his outfit (not directly on his sensitive, young skin).  I also have rubbed the Eucalyptus onto my older son’s feet then put on socks (as I have seen on the Internet) and it really seems to help his runny nose. 

Share your secrets for fighting cold and flu season at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or by emailing sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  Flu season could last a few more months; take care of yourself and your family.  Stay healthy and happy!  Thanks for reading. 

Twin Bits

From TBS Calendar:

Wed Jan 23:  Big Read Presentation, MP gym; Big Hole Ditch Assoc. Mtg (Dick Marshall) @ MT Room, 1:30 pm

Thurs Jan 24:  Wrestling Meet @ Butte High, 6 pm

Fri Jan 25:  BB @ WSS, GBGB, 2:30pm; State Speech/ Drama and Debate @ Huntley Project

Sat Jan 26:  JrHi BBB @ Harrison Tourney; BB w/ West Yellowstone @ Home, BGBG; Little Dribblers (girls) play at half-time of the varsity games;  State Speech/ Drama/ Debate @ Huntley Project;  FFA @ Fergus Mechanics in Lewistown

Tues Jan 29:  JrHi BBB w/ Ennis @ Home, 4 pm; District FFA @ Clyde Park, 5 pm; 

Wed Jan 30:  Elementary Science Fair @ MP gym

Thurs Jan 31:  JrHi BBB @ Three Forks Tourney; Elementary Science Fair Awards, MP Gym, 8:20 am

Fri Feb 1:  BB @ Manhattan Christian, GBGB, 4 pm

Sat Feb 2:  JrHi BBB @ Three Forks Tourney; Wrestling Divisional Tourney @ Dillon; BB w/ Ennis @ Home, BGBG, 2:30 pm; FFA Alumni Silent Dessert Auction, Gym Lobby, 3 pm; Little Dribblers (boys) play at half-time of varsity games

I am here to promote activities and events in the Ruby Valley.  Please contact me at the above Sustainably Sadie address, call me at 684-5222 or snail mail: P.O. Box 491, 59754. 

Winter Walk

Sustainably Sadie

Winter Walk

As the thermometer returns to the positive side of zero, I think we will all be a little anxious to get outside for some fresh air and sunshine.  I recommend one of my favorite places for a walk…the walking path around the Fairgrounds in Twin Bridges.  I am so grateful for the paved path that follows the Beaverhead River, sneaks under Highway 41 and then parallels the back entrance to the Madison County Fairgrounds. 

On a much needed (and doctor ordered) outdoor excursion with my boys last week, I got to see 3 mink while walking on the path.  Two were playing and soaking up sun rays on an island of ice just downstream from the rest area and the third was gathering moss for its home near the tunnel that runs under the highway.

The paved path is perfect for the young ones’ first bike ride, a brisk walk with the stroller or for an even braver endeavor—breaking out the roller blades.    The path passes by 2 playgrounds, the baseball field, 4-H livestock barns, and a small pond complete with fairytale-esque bridge.  The gazebo back by the baseball fields and blue playground equipment is a sweet place for a picnic. 

Right now, the field at Jessen Park has been flooded and the ice is nice—perfect for a family skate day.  The area across the river from Twin Bridges offers a plethora of healthy, outdoor activity.  During warmer weather, many fisherman and river enthusiasts take off from the boat launch.  And how much fun in the summertime to hop in inner tubes at the south end of path, float down the Beaverhead, get out at the boat ramp, run up the path and playfully float downriver again. 

Our wide-open spaces offer many opportunities to get out and enjoy Mother Nature and fresh air.  The path is nice in that it gets us Twin Bridges citizens away from the constant semi-truck traffic that rumbles through town.  I’m one all for a good dirt road walk but it is nice to be walking or biking with the kids and to not have to worry about motorized traffic.  It is a lot easier to use a scooter on the paved path as opposed to dusty back roads. 

You may, however, encounter an abundance of foot traffic:  residents and travelers stretching their legs and walking their dogs.  Enjoy a smile from a local and patronize one of the awesome local businesses.  It is a great resource that we are blessed to have in our small town. 

What are your favorite winter activities?  How do you stay sane during the long winter months?  Share your sustainable secrets to avoiding the winter doldrums at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or email sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  Thanks for reading and sharing your suggestions. 

Twin Bits

The next TBCA meeting will be Friday January 18 at The Old Hotel in TB, 8:30 am. 

From TBS Calendar:

Thurs Jan 17:  JrHi BBB @ Townsend, 4 pm

Fri Jan 18:  FFA attending KMON contests @ Cascade/ Great Falls; Wrestling Class A Duals @ Belgrade; BB w/ Harrison @ Home BGBG, 2:30 pm; Little Dribblers (boys) play @ half-time of varsity games

Sat Jan 19:  FFA attending KMON contests @ Cascade/ Great Falls; Wrestling @ Belgrade; JrHi BBB  @ TB tourney; BB @ Gardiner BGBG, 2:30 pm

Tues Jan 22:  BB @ Butte “C” squads, B- 5 pm; G- 7 pm;  JrHi Boys BB w/ Cardwell @ Home, MP gym, 4 pm

Wed Jan 23:  Big Read Presentation, MP gym; Big Hole Ditch Assoc. Mtg (Dick Marshall) @ MT Room, 1:30 pm

Thurs Jan 24:  Wrestling Meet @ Butte High, 6 pm

Fri Jan 25:  BB @ WSS, GBGB, 2:30pm

Sat Jan 26:  JrHi BBB @ Harrison Tourney; BB w/ West Yellowstone @ Home, BGBG; Little Dribblers (girls) play at half-time of the varsity games

Tues Jan 29:  JrHi BBB w/ Ennis @ Home, 4 pm; District FFA @ Clyde Park, 5 pm

Wed Jan 30:  Elementary Science Fair @ MP gym

Thurs Jan 31:  JrHi BBB @ Three Forks Tourney; Elementary Science Fair Awards, MP Gym, 8:20 am

Fri Feb 1:  BB @ Manhattan Christian, GBGB, 4 pm

Sat Feb 2:  JrHi BBB @ Three Forks Tourney; Wrestling Divisional Tourney @ Dillon; BB w/ Ennis @ Home, BGBG, 2:30 pm; FFA Alumni Silent Dessert Auction, Gym Lobby, 3 pm; Little Dribblers (boys) play at half-time of varsity games

"The Story of Stuff"

Sustainably Sadie

“The Story of Stuff”

A good friend recommended that I check out the “Story of Stuff” you tube video.  A 21 minute low-budget (part of the sustainability endeavor) documentary-style film discusses how since the 1950s governments and, to a larger extent, corporations have forced stuff onto us through planned obsolescence and perceived obsolescence.   The film goes on to explain that having to replace items every six months, and that fashion trends change in order to label those who are behind the times and those who are “with it” are causing irreparable harm to our planet. 

If you have twenty minutes to spare, check out “Story of Stuff” and if it inspires you…go on to cruise the website, storyofstuff.com.  My searching of the website led me to a clip of Annie Leonard (author of Story of Stuff) being interviewed by Stephen Colbert on the Colbert Report.  Leonard says in the interview that we don’t have to give up our “stuff” but that we should have greater reverence for our stuff and how it affects the environmental health of our planet. 

“Can shopping save the world?”  The storyofstuff.com website offers the project’s newest movie and a short synopsis, “The Story ofChange.”  “The Story of Change urges viewers to put down their credit cards and to start exercising their citizen muscles to build a more sustainable, just and fulfilling world.”  A shorter film referred to as Episode 1 of Season 2, it offers that to make real change we shouldn’t feel guilty about not always being able to afford the greenest products but that we should become part of the larger movement that demands change from the governing bodies.  The larger movement is made up of different types of Changemaker Personalities:  Builders, Communicators, Investigators, Nurturers, Networkers, and Resisters.  The website offers a quiz that helps you to identify which type of Changemaker you are.  I took the quiz (who doesn’t love personality quizzes) and guess what??  Nurturer!  I know, you’re totally surprised. 

So if you’re interested in this sustainability stuff, if you want to learn more about positive ways you can make a difference and help to preserve the planet for future generations, check out storyofstuff.com.  Watch the videos and become the change you wish to see in the world (thank you Gandhi).  And feel free to share your sustainable successes by posting comments at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com (I will have time to update the blog soon, I promise)   or emailing sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  I know that in our small community there are many people making sustainable choices every day.  The values from pre-1950, “stewardship, resourcefulness and thrift” as mentioned in the film, are alive and well here in Southwest Montana as well as the focus on Local Living Economies.  You have every right to brag about how you are saving the planet by shopping at your local second-hand store, about your amazing recycling endeavors and how your Random Acts of Kindness are preserving this place we call home. 

Twin Bits

From TBS Calendar:

Jan. 9 – 11:  Semester Tests

Thurs Jan 10:  Wrestling Mixer @ Corvallis, 5 pm; VFW Mts @ MT Room, 7:30 pm

Fri Jan 11:  End of 2^nd Qtr/ 1^st Semester; Early Out, 12:30pm; Wrestling Mixer @ Dillon, 1pm; BB @ Lima, 5:30 pm

Sat Jan 12:  Speech & Drama meet @ Laurel, leave Friday pm after bus routes; BB w/ Sheridan @ Home, GBGB, 2:30 pm;  Little Dribblers (girls) play at half-time of varsity games

Mon Jan 14:  No School; Trailblazers 4-H mts @ Lunch Room, 7 pm

Tues Jan 15:  BB w/ Boulder @ Home “C” Squads, B- 5:45 pm/ G- 7 pm; JrHi BBB @ Whitehall, 4 pm; Reg. School Board Mtg @ MT Room, 7 pm

Wed Jan 16:  Speech & Drama Open House for public @ MT Room, 7 pm

Thurs Jan 17:  JrHi BBB @ Townsend, 4 pm

Fri Jan 18:  FFA attending KMON contests @ Cascade/ Great Falls; Wrestling Class A Duals @ Belgrade; BB w/ Harrison @ Home BGBG, 2:30 pm; Little Dribblers (boys) play @ half-time of varsity games

Sat Jan 19:  FFA attending KMON contests @ Cascade/ Great Falls; Wrestling @ Belgrade; JrHi BBB  @ TB tourney; BB @ Gardiner BGBG, 2:30 pm

I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754. 

Happy New Year

Sustainably Sadie

Happy New Year

I’ve spent the last week trying to think of a sustainability topic that is not related to motherhood only to come up with nada, nothing; all this foggy-brain is able to comprehend is family, family, family.  With our daughter visiting for the holidays and three week old baby, everywhere I turn is a child needing apple juice, cheese stick or a hug.  The mess from Christmas lingers; and the s-t-r-e-t-c-h-e-d family budget is a burden that husband and I have to work at not letting affect our relationship. 

With 2013 days away, it feels appropriate to plan for the next year.  Tiny babe in arms, it is easy to say good-bye to business endeavors of the past and to move into something more appropriate for our growing family.  Instead of creating new coffee and sandwich recipes, I am dreaming about a team of draft horses, free-range pigs, and crops the kids and I can tend. 

While making plans for the future, it can be easy to lose sight of the present.  But staying in the present, appreciating each moment for what it is, is not only good for the kids and the loved ones surrounding us, but is also the best state of being for our own health.  Worrying about the past or the future causes stress and stress kills.  It is why meditation is so good for our health; focusing only on our breath and the present moment puts the body at ease, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress.  A meditative practice helps to prepare us for handling stressful situations.  Quieting the mind is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. 

More yoga in 2013.  Working 6 days a week, 8+ hours a day in the coffee shop, there was very little yoga for me in 2012.  Carrying small baby all day, picking up our 3 ½ year old, my shoulders and back are demanding stretching.  Hands that fell asleep prior to giving birth (a natural occurrence at the end of pregnancy) are still giving me trouble as the upper arm muscles are adjusting to the 8 pound curls I am doing all day.  I know I can heal my body with stretching.  Strengthening will help to ease the aches and pains.  And as an added bonus, I will hopefully not hate the pictures of myself from the two big family weddings happening this year.   

From all of us in the Miller household, we raise up our sippy cups and toast to a wonderful 2013 for everyone!  May it be a fun-filled year with lots of camping, hiking and outdoor adventure.  I can’t wait to hear about your gardening endeavors, your sustainable successes and family-friendly fun.   

Check out www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com.  Email comments, suggestions and successes to sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  Snail mail correspondence to Sarah Miller, P.O. Box 491, TB, 59754. 

Twin Bits:

From the TBS Calendar:

Dec 21- Jan 2:  No School, Christmas Vacation

Thurs Jan 3: School Resumes; GBB w/ Bozeman JV @ Home; JrHi BBB practice begins

Fri Jan 4:  Wrestling Meet @ Bozeman; BB @ Whitehall, 3 pm;

Sat Jan 5:  Wrestling Meet @ Bozeman; Speech & Drama @ Manhattan; BB w/ Lone Peak @ Home, JV B, JV G, Var B

 I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754. 

DIY Christmas gifts

Sustainably Sadie

I previously mentioned that I would go into more detail regarding the DIY Christmas gifts I fashioned…with less than a week until Christmas (how the heck did that happen!?) it seems as good a time as any. 

MSN.com featured on its News Reel, “20 Pinterest Fails—sure the crafts look cute but they don’t always turn out…” I am paraphrasing but thought it was hilarious.  My lesson from my own experience, failing is good, failing is okay.  You don’t learn if you don’t try.  I look up at our Christmas tree and wonder if I’m ever going to fix the paper snowman ornament who’s not-so-perfectly-round and Justin just put the pumpkin-fudge turned caramel sauce in apple pie.  A long way from fudge; I had substituted Peeps for marshmallow cream—I think I’m the only one who’s surprised it didn’t turn out.  The point of this rambling is that in these last few hectic days before Christmas, if you have the time and desire to make some homemade jewelry, try new fudge recipes, or to do glitter projects with the kids, make sure it’s fun.  Shut it down (thank you, Tina Fey) when it stops being fun.  You don’t need the extra pressure of stressing over perfectly crafted body scrub for your 20 best ladies.  Stick to your budget and have fun celebrating the season!

With inspiration from the jewelry workshop I took at the River’s Edge Gallery this fall, I have made necklaces, earrings, and bracelets for friends and relatives.  I saw on Pinterest.com a way to make earring holders using embroidery hoops and lace.  I also used burlap and picture frames to make jewelry holders.  Now I can gift a homemade jewelry holder with a set of earrings. 

Thanks to Kelly Downing’s mixed media adult ed class, I have mixed media snowmen to gift to grandmas.  The mixed media has also been applied to the snowmen ornaments I’ve been making, journals and other decorations.  Wine cork Christmas trees and moustaching clear glass ornaments has been fun.  The older kids both had fun applying glitter glue and paint to the clear ornaments.   I found the clear ornaments at Michael’s in Bozeman.

Now I’m accumulating cookie and treat recipes to make with the kids.  We’re going to have a Grinch party with Grinchy-green treats and Roast Beast.  It is a wonderful time of year, a time to celebrate with your loved ones and to shout about the joyousness of life.  Share your joy at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or email sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  

Twin Bits

The River’s Edge Gallery will be open during the holiday season!!  Starting Saturday November 24^th, the Gallery will be open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm until December 22^nd.  Please contact Therese Hutchinson at the Main Street Market for more information. 

From TBS Calendar:

Wed Dec 19:  Cindy White Dance Studio Recital, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 20:  School Early Out, 12:30 pm; BB w/ Shields Valley @ Home, GGBGB (both gyms), 1 pm

Dec 21- Jan 2:  No School, Christmas Vacation

Thurs Jan 3: School Resumes; GBB w/ Bozeman JV @ Home; JrHi BBB practice begins

Fri Jan 4:  Wrestling Meet @ Bozeman; BB @ Whitehall, 3 pm;

Sat Jan 5:  Wrestling Meet @ Bozeman; Speech & Drama @ Manhattan; BB w/ Lone Peak @ Home, JV B, JV G, Var B

 I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754. 

baby...

Sustainably Sadie

Baby Boy Miller was born at 6:19 am December 8^th (name tbd).  Thank you to Stacey, Kattie, and Christine of Birth Place in Bozeman for helping to bring our beautiful man into the world.  We are so appreciative for their skill, love and care. 

We are in recovery mode (and sleep deprivation) here at the Miller house…Sustainably Sadie will be short this week. 

Remember to SHOP LOCAL this holiday season!  Kindred Spirits of Sheridan is hosting its First Year Holiday Open House, Monday December 17, 5 pm to 8 pm.  Refreshments and appetizers will be served.  Look for Specials throughout the shop as well as a Drawing for a $50 gift certificate.  Winter Hours for this awesome gift shop are 10:30 to 5:30 Monday through Saturday.  101 Mill Street, Sheridan, 842-7702. 

Brag about your generosity and how you give at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or by emailing sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  Thanks for reading and your suggestions. 

Twin Bits

There will be an Annual Heifer Holiday Bake Sale at the Sheridan Schools, Tuesday December 18^th during lunch and at the evening concert.  All proceeds will be used to buy farm animals and training for people in need through the Heifer International program (www.heifer.org).  Support the bake sale, check out the website and help Heifer with their “singular commitment—to help poor and hungry people help themselves.”

The next meeting of the TBCA is scheduled for Friday December 14 at 8:30 am at The Shack. 

The River’s Edge Gallery will be open during the holiday season!!  Starting Saturday November 24^th, the Gallery will be open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm until December 22^nd.  Please contact Therese Hutchinson at the Main Street Market for more information. 

The River’s Edge Gallery is a great shop for local holiday shopping.  I am still compiling a list of Buy Local Holiday Gift Ideas.  Share your suggestions!

From TBS Calendar:

Thurs Dec 13:  HS Holiday Concert, 7 pm; VFW Mtg @ MT Room, 7:30 pm

Fri Dec 14:  Wrestling Meet @ Great Falls; BB @ Ennis BGBGB , 2 pm

Sat Dec 15:  Wrestling Meet @ Great Falls; JrHi GBB @ Ennis Tourney; BB w/ Gardiner @ Home BGBG, 2:30 pm; Veterans Christmas Dinner @ Lunchroom, MP Gym, 5 pm

Sun Dec. 16:  Trailblazers 4-H Mtg @ Lunchroom, 7 pm;

Mon. Dec. 17:  BB @ West Yellowstone, GBGB, 2:30 pm; JrHi GBB w/ Ennis @ Home, 4 pm

Tues Dec 18:  Elementary Holiday Concert, 6 pm

Wed Dec 19:  Cindy White Dance Studio Recital, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 20:  School Early Out, 12:30 pm; BB w/ Shields Valley @ Home, GGBGB (both gyms), 1 pm

Dec 21- Jan 2:  No School, Christmas Vacation

Thurs Jan 3: School Resumes 

 I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754. 

Sustainably Christmas

Sustainably Sadie

Sustainable Christmas

Or, how I kept busy while waiting for baby to arrive.  At time of writing this, Monday the 3rd, Baby Miller has not yet joined us.  It is hard to not be anxious, but it is an excellent life lesson, to trust the body and to accept the days that pass before the natural process begins. 

I have 90% of my Christmas shopping done…I think.  I was determined to get it all tackled before you-know-who arrives.  I’m not keen on taking baby out into the shopping madness and mayhem.  I’ve accumulated the crafting accoutrements necessary to create many fun DIY (Do-It-Yourself) gifts and holiday decorations.  Thanks to Pinterest.com, it has been too easy to get inspired to try different decorations, different ways to dress up candles, and construct unique jewelry organizers.  I will write about these projects in more detail later. 

Check out Pinterest for your business.  I’ve noticed magazines are dedicating page space for Pin-crazy readers.  Real Simple magazine, realsimple.com/pinterest, suggests you “get inspired” by checking out “What’s Hot on Pinterest.”  Bon Appetit magazine shares the magazine’s Pin It to Win It contest, pinterest.com/bonappetitmag/contests.  Check out businesses similar to your own to get inspired to create your own Pinterest page.  Pinterest is also now doing a “30 Days of Pinspiration” promotion, featuring people, businesses, and blogs:  “For 30 days, pinners, non-profits, and brands share what inspiration means to them.”  Research ways to make this social media website work for you. 

While accumulating DIY holiday ideas, I am also still collecting your suggestions for shopping locally this season.  Together we can create 2012’s Ruby Valley Gift Guide.  A great suggestion sent my way was to shop Etsy.com…it is an easy way to shop online and shop local.  When you visit Etsy.com, click on the “Buy” button (top left) then on the right-hand side of the page under “Ways to Shop” click on the “Shop Local” link.   Consider listing your products on Etsy.com…if you do, you may need to contact Customer Support to make sure that your store is listed in their Shop Local database.  It would be worth the few minutes of phone time to make sure that your products result when “Twin Bridges, Montana” (or Sheridan, Alder, Silver Star) is typed into the Shop Local query. 

There are so many wonderful ways to celebrate the season:  favorite recipes, favorite homemade gifts, creative crafts and supporting your friends and neighbors.  Do your business a favor and spend a few minutes researching ways to boost holiday profits.  And remember to share your ideas at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or email sustainablysadie@hotmail.com. 

Twin Bits

The December meeting of the Twin Bridges Book Club is scheduled for Thursday December 13^th, 7 pm at the Weaver’s Studio.  This month’s book is Homer’s Odyssey by Gwen Cooper. 

The Twin Bridges Christmas Stroll is right around the corner:  Thursday December 6th, Open House on Main Street, 4 pm to 6 pm.  Hayrides, Pictures with Santa, Games, Contests & Activities, Give-aways, Goodies.  FREE All Community Stew Feed in Main Street Park, 6 pm – 8 pm; Tree Lighting @ 6:30 pm, Live Entertainment.  Sponsored in part by the TBCA, the GRVCCA, 3 Rivers Communications, the Town of Twin Bridges and the Twin Bridges Rotary Club.  Contact Paula Kinoshita, TBCA Chair, 684-5959 or Jack Leber, TBCA Vice-Chair, 684-5686 for more information.

The next meeting of the TBCA is scheduled for Friday December 14 at 8:30 am at The Shack. 

The Sheridan Christmas Stroll will be Friday December 7^th, 5 pm to 8 pm. 

The River’s Edge Gallery will be open during the holiday season!!  Starting Saturday November 24^th, the Gallery will be open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm until December 22^nd.  Please contact Therese Hutchinson at the Main Street Market for more information. 

The River’s Edge Gallery is a great shop for local holiday shopping.  I am still compiling a list of Buy Local Holiday Gift Ideas.  Share your suggestions!

From TBS Calendar:

Wed Dec 5:  Booster Club Mtg, 5 pm @ MT Room

Thurs Dec 6:  JrHi GBB @ Whitehall, 4 pm; Fall Athletic Banquet @ MP Gym, 6:30 pm; TB Christmas Stroll; Wrestling Mixer @ Dillon, 5 pm

Fri Dec 7:  JrHi GBB w/ Townsend @ Home, 4 pm; Sheridan Christmas Stroll

Dec 7- 8:  BB Tip-Off Tournament @ Three Forks; Wrestling Meets @ Butte & Whitehall, TBA

Mon. Dec 10:  December School Board Mtg, 7 pm @ MT Room

Tues Dec. 11:  Trailblazers 4-H Extension Mtg @ MT Room, 5:45 pm; JrHi GBB @ Cardwell, 4 pm;

Wed. Dec 12:  Wrestling Meet @ Deer Lodge, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 13:  HS Holiday Concert, 7 pm; VFW Mtg @ MT Room, 7:30 pm

Fri Dec 14:  Wrestling Meet @ Great Falls; BB @ Ennis BGBGB , 2 pm

Sat Dec 15:  Wrestling Meet @ Great Falls; JrHi GBB @ Ennis Tourney; BB w/ Gardiner @ Home BGBG, 2:30 pm; Veterans Christmas Dinner @ Lunchroom, MP Gym, 5 pm

Sun Dec. 16:  Trailblazers 4-H Mtg @ Lunchroom, 7 pm;

Mon. Dec. 17:  BB @ West Yellowstone, GBGB, 2:30 pm; JrHi GBB w/ Ennis @ Home, 4 pm

Tues Dec 18:  Elementary Holiday Concert, 6 pm

Wed Dec 19:  Cindy White Dance Studio Recital, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 20:  School Early Out, 12:30 pm; BB w/ Shields Valley @ Home, GGBGB (both gyms), 1 pm

Dec 21- Jan 2:  No School, Christmas Vacation

Thurs Jan 3: School Resumes 

 I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754. 

Preparing for Baby

Sustainably Sadie

Preparing for Baby

So there is this “nesting” thing that comes at the end of pregnancy…It makes the waiting a little bit easier to be preoccupied, but there is that underlying, unconscious desire to get your home in order before baby comes.  Clean everything so that the new baby is welcomed into a clean and comfortable home.  Take care of any loose ends so that you aren’t preoccupied with work, bills, to-do lists, birthdays and holidays that coincide with due dates. 

When making dinner, I have been preparing enough food for 2 meals then I freeze the extra one.  While I have the energy to cook up big meals now, after baby is here there is a good chance that the first weeks of getting to know the new person will leave little time and energy to prepare a healthy, family-friendly meal.  It is amazing how easily the days get filled with feeding and changing diapers. 

In the same vein, I wanted to share some tips for gifting food to those in recovery mode (and please gently understand…I am not soliciting). 

1)     Give food in disposable containers.  For people in recovery, it can be an extra burden to have to think of washing and returning your cherished casserole dish that has been in your family for eons.  You can pick up inexpensive containers at the store and let your gift of lasagna in an aluminum pan be enjoyed and then disposed of as the recipient sees fit. 

2)     Gift reasonable portion sizes.  Gift enough for one meal.  If you are part of a group who are taking turns to prepare meals for healing friend, don’t add stress by making them keep track of leftovers.  If just for husband and wife then only prepare two portions of deliciousness. 

3)     Gift comfort food.  It is not a time for experimenting with ethnic food.  Gift food that is familiar and lean more toward the bland than the overly seasoned.  That allows the recipient to season their food to their own liking.  On Pinterest, I read a blog post where the writer included in her prepped food gift, rolls and muffins.  The muffins could be dessert and/or breakfast.  Bread and rolls make great gifts. 

Other tips specific to families with new babies (if I may)...while it is so easy to be tempted by all the cute outfits and toys out there, keep the new mom in mind.  Mom’s new to breastfeeding sometimes can benefit by a gift of a dark beer to help them relax into breastfeeding.  Also, a magazine for Mom can be a great gift to the gal who spends all her days elbows deep in baby care.  Bring her favorite tea, juice or decaffeinated soda and remember to do some dishes when you come to visit the new baby! 

Share your sustainable stories at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or email sustainablysadie@hotmail.com. 

Twin Bits

The Twin Bridges Christmas Stroll is right around the corner:  Thursday December 6th, Open House on Main Street, 4 pm to 6 pm.  Hayrides, Pictures with Santa, Games, Contests & Activities, Give-aways, Goodies.  FREE All Community Stew Feed in Main Street Park, 6 pm – 8 pm; Tree Lighting @ 6:30 pm, Live Entertainment.  Sponsored in part by the TBCA, the GRVCCA, 3 Rivers Communications, the Town of Twin Bridges and the Twin Bridges Rotary Club.  Contact Paula Kinoshita, TBCA Chair, 684-5959 or Jack Leber, TBCA Vice-Chair, 684-5686 for more information.

The River’s Edge Gallery will be open during the holiday season!!  Starting Saturday November 24^th, the Gallery will be open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm until December 22^nd.  Please contact Therese Hutchinson at the Main Street Market for more information. 

The River’s Edge Gallery is a great shop for local holiday shopping.  I am still compiling a list of Buy Local Holiday Gift Ideas.  Share your suggestions!

From TBS Calendar:

Wed Nov 28:  FWP mtg @ MP Gym, 5:30 pm

Thurs Nov 29:  JrHi GBB @ Three Forks

Sat Dec 1:  JrHi GBB @ Three Forks Tourney

Mon Dec 3:  Community Blood Drive @ MT Room, 11:30 am

Tues Dec 4:  JV GB BB w/ Dillon @ Home

Wed Dec 5:  Booster Club Mtg, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 6:  JrHi GBB @ Whitehall, 4 pm; Fall Athletic Banquet @ MP Gym, 6:30 pm; TB Christmas Stroll

Fri Dec 7:  JrHi GBB w/ Townsend @ Home, 4 pm; Sheridan Christmas Stroll

Dec 7- 8:  BB Tip-Off Tournament @ Three Forks

Thurs Dec 13:  HS Holiday Concert, 7 pm

Tues Dec 18:  Elementary Holiday Concert, 6 pm

Wed Dec 19:  Cindy White Dance Studio Recital, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 20:  School Early Out, 12:30 pm

Dec 21- Jan 2:  No School, Christmas Vacation

 I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754. 

Thankful

Sustainably Sadie

Thankful

Even though we are doing Anti-Thanksgiving this year (so close to baby’s due date, we are staying at home, keeping it small), the turkey-gobbling holiday is one of my favorites.  It is a great time to say “Thanks” and to rejoice in all the goodness of life. 

Facebook can be a negative source of social networking…the election brought out a lot of negative interaction. But one very positive trend is for people to spend every day in November posting one thing for which they are thankful.  It is such a simple, beautiful exercise.  It is fun to see what gives friends cause to say “Thanks.”  People who miss days play catch-up and sometimes list the small things that make life a joy. 

It is a great exercise not only for the month of November.  When life has you feeling down, it can be very helpful to list the things in life for which you are grateful.  The blahs of winter may be such a time when you start each day writing down at least three things for which you give thanks.  It can help to put into perspective the things that are really important and to start the day on a positive note. 

Pinterest has lots of great suggestions for sharing that for which you are thankful during the Thanksgiving holiday.  Have family and guests write down something for which they give thanks, then roll up inside of a roll and bake.  When you crack open that fresh roll at the table, you will find a surprise inside!  There’s also having everyone around the table say what they are thankful for or fitting the phrases onto a Thanksgiving hand-crafted center-piece.  I love crafting new place name cards each year and writing down your appreciations can be fun for everyone! 

I am thankful to be writing for the Madisonian and the potential career-success provided me.  I am thankful that we will be meeting the newest addition to our family very soon.  I am thankful for my family and all their wonderfulness.  I am thankful for the small community in which I live, was raised and now where I get to raise my children.  Share what makes you thankful on Facebook, at www.sustainablysadie.blogspot.com or email sustainablysadie@hotmail.com.  Happy Thanksgiving! 

Another thankful note as we are thrown full force into “The Holiday Season”…please remember to send Thank You notes:  a small gesture that goes a long way to say you are grateful for even the small gifts in life.

And remember this Saturday is Small Business Saturday.  You woke up in the middle of the night, from your turkey-induced coma to schlep through the Black Friday stores…make a plan to support your local small businesses Saturday and keep our local economy alive. 

Twin Bits

There will be a movie shown compliments of Joe Witherspoon at the Twin Bridges Public Library, Sunday December 2^nd, at 2 pm.  The “Christmas Star” is about the astrology of the Christmas Star and the 3 Wise Men.  For further information, call the Twin Bridges Public Library, 684-5416.      

The Twin Bridges Christmas Stroll is right around the corner:  Thursday December 6th, Open House on Main Street, 4 pm to 6 pm.  Hayrides, Pictures with Santa, Games, Contests & Activities, Give-aways, Goodies.  FREE All Community Stew Feed in Main Street Park, 6 pm – 8 pm; Tree Lighting @ 6:30 pm, Live Entertainment.  Sponsored in part by the TBCA, the GRVCCA, 3 Rivers Communications, the Town of Twin Bridges and the Twin Bridges Rotary Club.  Contact Paula Kinoshita, TBCA Chair, 684-5959 or Jack Leber, TBCA Vice-Chair, 684-5686 for more information.

The River’s Edge Gallery will be open during the holiday season!!  Starting Saturday November 24^th, the Gallery will be open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm until December 22^nd.  Please contact Therese Hutchinson at the Main Street Market for more information. 

The River’s Edge Gallery is a great shop for local holiday shopping.  I am still compiling a list of Buy Local Holiday Gift Ideas.  Share your suggestions!

From TBS Calendar:

Tues Nov 27:  JrHi GBB w/ Sheridan @ Home, 4pm

Wed Nov 28:  FWP mtg @ MP Gym, 5:30 pm

Thurs Nov 29:  JrHi GBB @ Three Forks

Sat Dec 1:  JrHi GBB @ Three Forks Tourney

Mon Dec 3:  Community Blood Drive @ MT Room, 11:30 am

Tues Dec 4:  JV GB BB w/ Dillon @ Home

Wed Dec 5:  Booster Club Mtg, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 6:  JrHi GBB @ Whitehall, 4 pm; Fall Athletic Banquet @ MP Gym, 6:30 pm; TB Christmas Stroll

Fri Dec 7:  JrHi GBB w/ Townsend @ Home, 4 pm; Sheridan Christmas Stroll

Dec 7- 8:  BB Tip-Off Tournament @ Three Forks

Thurs Dec 13:  HS Holiday Concert, 7 pm

Tues Dec 18:  Elementary Holiday Concert, 6 pm

Wed Dec 19:  Cindy White Dance Studio Recital, 6 pm

Thurs Dec 20:  School Early Out, 12:30 pm

Dec 21- Jan 2:  No School, Christmas Vacation

 I’m here to share news and events for the Ruby Valley.  Contact me at 684-5222, at above Sustainably Sadie addresses or snail mail, Box 491 TB 59754.