Gift of values, not valuables

A young lad, upon being gifted a brand-new BMW car recently, took exception to this affectionate gesture of his parents, since nothing less than a Jaguar measured up to his expectations. In utter contempt for his parents, and the gift online, or perhaps to propitiate the gods, he took the gleaming car to the banks of the raging Yamuna and ploughed it into the turbulent waters. He watched it being tossed around by the tempestuous currents which seemed to share the young man’s scorn for it.

I read the news, and after the initial reaction of shock and disbelief, I was briefly in awe of the young man, to be soon drowned in a gamut of emotions, culminating into a brooding silence, as I was transported to my past. While in college, all my friends had scooters and motorcycles. Cars had arrived on the youngsters’ wish radar, but except for a handful of lucky ones, most guys were on two-wheelers only.

Feeling somewhat deprived, and envious of my friends’ trendy machines of mobility, I often pestered my father to get me one — a request which elicited just one response — an advice to concentrate on my studies. I must confess, it was disappointing, and led me to even doubt my parents’ affection towards me, particularly when affordability was not an issue.
There was a gentleman whose business brought him to our house frequently. He was a leading transporter of Punjab and a legislator. Later, he became a minister. He was fond of me, and often placed his Mercedes at my disposal indulgently. One day I asked him if he could get me a scooter out of his MLA’s discretionary quota. Within a week, I had the allotment letter in hand, and excitedly, told my dad about it. He was livid and called up the gentleman to remonstrate with him angrily, ‘How dare you do this? You want to spoil my children?’

I could hear a voice trying to reason with him, but to no avail, and minutes later, the letter was shred to pieces.


Tearfully, I withdrew, vowing never to broach this issue with him again, and also silently pledging to myself that I would now buy a vehicle for myself only when I have earned enough money for it.

But this singular instance had innumerable lessons for me, which unravelled over the years.

I joined the legal profession, and after a year or so, saved enough to buy myself a conveyance. But still short of some amount, and unable to resist the lure of an immediate purchase, I asked my father for some loan, upon which he smiled, patted my head, and asked  me to go ahead with the buy.

Well! Contrast the two situations. In both, parental affection towards children was unquestionably undiluted. But the values that we impart to our children are invaluable as compared to the pure glitz, which, though enviable, does not distinguish the recipient as a human with sound values.

source - https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/musings/gift-of-values-not-valuables/834026.html

Queen of hills — A land of five seasons

Unlike other temperate-climate places in the world, which have the standard four seasons, here, an active monsoon is also there

Raaja Bhasin

For those to whom the hills of Himachal are home, they have their own little indices, that announce a change of season.

For most, an end to winter is simply a brighter sun that moves steadily towards the summer solstice; for others it is the bearable temperature of water in the taps and streams and for still more, it is the magnificent rhododendrons that march across the hills with their deep red flowers and stab the forests with bright colour. My own little markers are on an old stone retaining wall covered with wild bergenia and their flowering marks the arrival of spring for me.

Spring opens the first of Himachal’s five seasons. Unlike most other temperate-climate places in the world, which have the standard four seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter, here, an active and pronounced monsoon is also there.
Summer may be somewhat dry, but its thunderstorms raise that rare culinary delicacy, the gucchi, the dark edible morel. And at the same time, the open grasslands, the meadows, the little sheltered nooks under the cedars are full of wild daisies and buttercups.

As June comes to an end or as July begins, a fine clear day may give way to grey tracer streaks across the sky. The fine lines turn into a phalanx of clouds that seem to have eyes and unwavering stares. The pupils are dark and around them billow flimsy strands in their irises —and are light, almost iridescent.

source - https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/weekly-pullouts/himachal-tribune/queen-of-hills-a-land-of-five-seasons/784964.html

Indoor Plants for Air Purifying by Indiagift

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More - https://www.indiagift.in/plants/indoor

New Research Busts Myth That Indoor Plants Improve Air Quality

After a 1989 study demonstrated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) decayed in a sealed chamber with a potted plant, everyone raved about how plants improved indoor air quality. Even NASA declared indoor plants could remove cancer-causing compounds from the air.

Turns out, just having a well-ventilated workspace does much more for your lungs than the potted plants do.

According to Dr. Michael Waring, associate professor of architectural and environmental engineering at Drexel University, "this has been a common misconception for some time. Plants are great, but they don't actually clean indoor air quickly enough to have an effect on the air quality of your home or office environment.”

Dr. Waring, along with his graduate student Bryan Cummings, analyzed 12 previously-published studies in a meta-analysis where they standardized air flow. They found ventilation in indoor environments dilutes the VOCs a lot faster than the plants can remove them from the air.

Today In: Innovation

Previous studies experimented with sealed chambers in labs, which don’t mimic air flow through indoor environments provided by HVAC systems or natural ventilation from open windows. VOCs were injected into the sealed chambers which contained a plant, and tracked over hours to days. The researchers were able to capture the decay of VOCs due to the plant, but this rate is incredibly slow compared to physical removal through ventilation, as Dr. Waring and Cummings demonstrated.

Don’t toss your potted plants yet—there are still incredible benefits to bringing a bit of nature indoors. Research shows potted plants can help us manage pain, lower blood pressure in those recovering from surgery, improve our capacity to pay attention in the office, calm young adults between work tasks, and more.

source 0 https://www.forbes.com/sites/linhanhcat/2019/11/13/indoor-plants/#7d6035304b46

Tips on growing indoor plants during the winter

Q: I have tried for several years to keep houseplants indoors during the winter and then move them outside for the summer. They grow well in the summer, but they nearly die indoors. I thought houseplants should be able to grow indoors. Do you have some tips on what I can do to help them grow better this winter?

A: Of course, all plants originally grew outdoors. But some of the locations that they grew in had temperatures similar to what many people think of as indoor temperatures – mostly in the mid-70s. The nighttime temperatures might drop into the upper 60s, and, near a sunny window, the daytime temperatures might increase into the low 80s. I am sure the temperature is just fine, but other environmental aspects may not be good for your plants.

Humidity is higher in tropical climates than it is indoors in the winter when the furnace is running.

To help your plants, you may need to run a humidifier. If there is water in the saucer under the plant, the plant roots may drown. Placing some stones in the saucer to raise the plant pot will keep the roots healthy and allow the water in the saucer to increase the humidity.

Plants don’t need as much water in the winter as you were giving them in the summer. Check the plants regularly to see if they need water, but don’t water on a schedule. More plants drown from too much water than die from not enough water. Touch the top of the soil in the pot. If it feels cool and damp, the plant probably doesn’t need water.

Does it go without saying that plants need light? I guess not, since I am saying it. Plants will drop leaves that don’t get enough light. You may need to add lights if not enough sun comes in the windows.

Because the days are shorter, the temperatures are cooler and there is less indoor light, plants don’t grow as much in the winter.

They don’t need as much fertilizer as they did outdoors in the summer. If you add any in the fall, just use a quarter of the normal amount. Don’t add any in December through February. Start with a quarter amount in late winter and then add full amounts a few weeks before they will be moved outdoors.

Check the plants for insects when you are checking them for water. Spider mites, aphids, whiteflies and other very small insects can build large populations because there are few predators and no rain to wash them off the plants.

Q: My landscaper said he wants to fertilize my lawn. I think he is just trying to make some money. Is this a good time to fertilize a bluegrass lawn?

A: Your landscaper is right, provided he is using the right fertilizer. A late fall fertilization of water-soluble nitrogen (not slow-release) is good for northern lawn grasses. This could be October or November, depending on how far north you are.

If the grass is still green, it is photosynthesizing, and the food produced will be stored in the crown and roots of the plant. The fertilizer will boost the food production.

These food reserves will help the plants survive the winter and then they will help the plant grow at the right rate in the early spring. Applying fertilizer in the early spring can be harmful because it causes the plants to grow leaves at the expense of roots.

The early fertilization forces the lawn to grow leaves that need to be mowed, but a fall fertilization doesn’t do that (now or in the spring.) send plants online to India 

source - https://www.dallasnews.com/sponsored/real-estate/2019/11/17/tips-on-growing-indoor-plants-during-the-winter/

The 8 Best Cookware Sets of 2019

Thanks for joining us for Cookware Week! In case you missed it, we shared our favorite cookware sets, accessories, and kitchen appliances, plus intel on how to care for all of it, and the best recipes to make with every piece.

Whether you’re moving into your first house, replacing old pots and pans, or simply shopping for a housewarming gift, you can’t go wrong buying a full set of cookware. This ensures you’ll have all the essential equipment to whip up a delicious meal, and as an added bonus, your collection of pots and pans will look beautifully cohesive.


However, there are so many cookware sets to choose from, ranging from under $100 to close to $1,000. It can be a tough choice, especially if you’re not familiar with common cookware brands. To help make your decision a little easier, here are some of our absolute favorite cookware sets that you can buy today:

Best Overall: All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Bonded Cookware Set
Best Under $100: T-fal Titanium Nonstick Cookware Set, 12-Piece
Best Under $200: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
Best Nonstick: Cuisinart GreenGourmet Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
Best Stainless Steel: Tramontina 12-Piece Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad Cookware Set
Best Copper: Calphalon Tri-Ply Copper 10-Piece Cookware Set
Best Cast Iron: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Bundle
Best for Small Kitchens: Calphalon Premier Space-Saving Nonstick 6-Piece Set
What to Look For When Buying a Cookware Set
There are a number of factors you’ll want to consider when shopping for cookware. First of all, there’s the choice of material. Cookware is commonly made from aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, copper, or a combination of several materials, and each type of metal has its pros and cons.

Related Reading: How to Clean Cast Iron

For example, aluminum pieces are typically less expensive, but they’re also less durable. Stainless steel can withstand more heavy use, but it costs more and isn’t as great at conducting heat (which is why stainless steel pans often have an aluminum core).

You’ll also want to think about what pieces you need—if you already have a stockpot you love, for example, you might want to look for a set without one to save a little money. Further, make sure to carefully look at what’s included in each set, as some brands try to “inflate” the number of pieces by including small utensils like spoons and spatulas that you might already own.

Other important considerations include the type of stove you have—for instance, not all cookware works on induction burners—as well as how you plan to use the pieces. Some cookware is dishwasher- and oven-safe, while other sets need to be cared for by hand.

Related Reading: 8 Cardinal Cookware Sins You Don’t Realize You’re Committing

We’ve taken all these factors into account as we hand-selected the following cookware sets. After completing hours of research, reading product reviews, comparing brands, and taking a deep dive into each item’s reviews, we’re confident these product recommendations are the best you can buy today.

Best Overall: All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Cookware Set, $699.95 on Amazon

Amazon

If you want the absolute best cookware set, no matter the price, arguably the best option is this 10-piece set from All-Clad. While it’s not cheap, this set of stainless steel cookware will last for the rest of your life (if taken care of properly), making it a worthwhile investment for home chefs.

This set includes both 8- and 10-inch frying pans, 2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, a 3-quart saute pan with lid, and an 8-quart stock pot with lid. All the pieces are made from three-ply stainless steel with a thick-gauge aluminum core for better conduction and more even heat distribution, and they feature riveted stainless steel handles. The pots and pans are warp-resistant, induction-compatible, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe up to 600 degrees (without their lids).

These products are made in the U.S. and come with a limited lifetime warranty. Reviewers say they heat evenly and look beautiful—most agree that they’re 100 percent worth the investment!

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Best Under $100: T-fal Titanium Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set, $96.20 on Amazon

Amazon

For those outfitting their first home, a budget-friendly cookware set might be more practical. In this case, you can’t go wrong with the 10-piece nonstick set from T-fal. This brand is known for its affordable prices, and this set has everything a novice chef needs to get started in the kitchen.

With this bundle, you get both 8- and 9-inch frying pans, 1- and 2-quart saucepans, a 3-quart deep saute pan, a 5-quart Dutch oven, four glass lids, a slotted spatula, and a solid spoon. The cookware is made from aluminum and features the company’s “Titanium Advanced” nonstick finish to ensure your eggs always slide right out.

Additionally, the pans feature a “thermospot temperature indicator” that shows when the pan is preheated to the proper temperature—it’s a helpful hack for those just starting out with cooking. Plus, reviewers rave about the quality and performance of these wallet-friendy pans, writing that the cookware “really does make you a better cook.”

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Best Under $200: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set, $197.21 on Amazon

Amazon

Cuisinart offers quality mid-priced cookware, and many people have good things to say about the 12-piece set from this brand. The pots and pans have a classic, elegant appearance and come with a variety of features that will make your time in the kitchen that much more enjoyable.

This set comes with 1.5- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 8- and 10-inch open skillets, a 3.5-quart saute pan and lid, an 8-quart stockpot and lid, as well as a steamer insert and matching lid. The pans are made with a pure aluminum core, triple-ply stainless steel walls, and a beautiful brushed finish. The rims are tapered for drip-free pouring, and the cookware has “Heat Surround” technology that allows for even heat distribution along the sides and walls—so say goodbye to hot spots!

The Cuisinart set is dishwasher- and oven-safe up to 550 degrees, and it can be used on induction cookware. According to reviewers, these pots and pans will last for years if you take care of them properly, and many say they perform as well as other high-end stainless steel pans.

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 Best Nonstick: Cuisinart GreenGourmet Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set, $150.99 on Amazon

Amazon

No one loves scrubbing burnt food off the bottom of their favorite skillet, which is why nonstick cookware is so popular. The nonstick pots and pans in this 12-piece set from Cuisinart are incredibly easy to care for, as pretty much all food will slide right off the scratch-resistant, ceramic-based nonstick coating. They’re made from hard-anodized aluminum to ensure even heat distribution and eliminate hot spots, and they’re oven-safe to 400 degrees.

This set includes an 8-inch skillet, 10-inch frying pan with lid, 1.5- and 2.5-quart saucepans with lids, a 3-quart “everyday” pan with lid, a 6-quart Dutch oven with lid, and a steamer insert. Because the set is part of Cuisinart’s GreenGourmet line, the products feature an eco-friendly nonstick coating and the handles are made from 70 percent recycled steel.

Buy Now

 Best Stainless Steel: Tramontina 12-Piece Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad Cookware Set, $219.97 from Walmart

Walmart

Stainless steel pans are undeniably pretty, and they also deliver in terms of performance, as this metal is incredibly durable. If you’re partial to stainless steel, you’ll like this 12-piece cookware set from Tramontina, as it provides unbeatable heat diffusion and durability.

In this set, you’ll find 10- and 12-inch frying pans, 5-, 3-, and 1.5-quart saucepans with lids, a 5-quart Dutch oven with lid, and a 12-quart stockpot with a lid. The cookware is made from triple-ply stainless steel and features riveted, ergonomic handles. All of the pieces can be put in the dishwasher and are oven-safe up to 500 degrees. Plus, their precision-fitted lids help to lock in flavor, and reviewers you can’t beat this set for price and performance. send gift to India online

source - https://www.chowhound.com/food-news/241474/best-cookware-sets-2019

Chowhound Gift Guide 2019: Gifts for the Eco-Conscious Cook

Eco-friendly gifts are perfect for that environmentally conscious, food-loving friend or relative, or for that loved one you’d like to aggressively push gently guide toward being more environmentally conscious. Since the ideal green gift leans more thoughtful than preachy, it’s important to choose items that are both meaningful and fun—and maybe even delicious!




As Kermit the Frog famously said, “It’s not easy being green,” but we’re hoping to take a little pressure off with these eco-friendly gift ideas for that beloved cook or food aficionado in your life.

For the Sparkling Water Enthusiast:
Aarke Sparkling Water Carbonator, $219 at Sur la Table

Sur La Table

A home sparkling water carbonator helps you avoid constantly buying packaged bubbly water in bottles or cans, creating less waste in a world where recycling isn’t always perfect. Though we like the utility of the SodaStream, for a holiday gift that packs a punch, the Aarke Carbonator II is next level. With colors like copper or brass, this soda maker is more of a pièce de résistance for your countertop, adding sophistication and a little glitz to everyday soda water making. And for the consummate host, this is the perfect gift to match the ambience of a stylish holiday party.

Be aware that the Aarke does not include the required CO2 canister, though it does work with SodaStream refill carbonators that can be found at Target as well as Bed Bath & Beyond (each with their own used-canister exchange program). In this way, you get effervescent elegance from Aarke, while minimizing soda can waste through the CO2 canister refills.

Buy Now

For the Coffee Lover:
Driftaway Coffee Subscription, $75+
Driftaway Coffee Subscription
Driftaway Coffee

With the goal of carbon-free coffee by 2022, Driftaway Coffee is hyper-focused on sustainability. They minimize energy use through their green sourcing, roasting, and shipping methods, and they offset their remaining carbon footprint through contributions toward an organization that fights deforestation. Not only that, but their packaging is compostable. So much green!

Given that, a gift subscription is a wonderful present for an eco-aware java-holic, and a tasting kit subscription delivers an extra element of variety and fun. As an example, a three-month tasting kit subscription will cost $75, delivering four mini (4-ounce) bags of whole bean coffee each month for the recipient to brew and sample.

Buy Now

For the Friend-About-Town:
Stojo Pocket Cup, $14.99 on Amazon

Amazon

At coffee shops and fast-casual restaurants, having your own reusable cup for beverages means saving a paper or plastic cup from use and from the trash. The trouble is, you can’t always come prepared with a spare cup—until now! Give the gift of the Stojo Pocket Cup, and let your recipient marvel at the packability of its scrunched-up form. Toss it in a bag or in a coat pocket, and never worry about having to plan ahead with a reusable cup. And don’t forget about those coffee shops that provide a little discount for bringing one’s own cup—it’s sort of like you’re also giving the gift of 25 cents off drip coffee, then, too.
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For the Conscientious Cook:
“Cooking with Scraps” by Lindsay-Jean Hard, $12.23 on Amazon

Amazon

A hardcover cookbook is always a nice gift for a home chef, and when that home chef is passionate about helping the environment, then a book about minimizing food waste is the way to go! “Cooking with Scraps: Turn Your Peels, Cores, Rinds, and Stems into Delicious Meals” is a book full of clever recipes for using banana peels, watermelon rinds, broccoli stems, and other food parts that mind otherwise end up in the trash. Amazon reviewers love the approachable tone and the unusual recipe ideas—great for an eco-minded person looking for ways to reduce food waste.
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For the Seafood Fan:
Patagonia Provisions Salmon + Mussels Gift Box, $59

Patagonia Provisions

No stranger to corporate responsibility, Patagonia applies similar values to its food division, Patagonia Provisions. For the environmentally-focused seafood lover, reading up on sustainable sourcing practices can be complicated and time-consuming, but Patagonia Provisions provides transparency on how and why they source both salmon and mussels. As such, the Patagonia Provisions Salmon + Mussels Gift Box makes a marvelous present for any seafood aficionado who is also concerned about responsible sourcing!
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For the Meat-Free Dabbler:
Vegan Starter Kit, $36.81 at Thrive Market

Thrive Market

More and more people are exploring meat-free cuisine with environmentalism as a motive. To help offset the hefty greenhouse gas emissions associated with meat production, even some carnivorous folks are trying out flexitarian diets, or the occasional Meatless Monday. For someone dabbling in vegetarianism or veganism, a kit full of vegan goodies is sure to delight and inspire.

Thrive Market’s Vegan Starter Kit includes an eclectic selection of vegan products to pique the interest of that friend curious about animal-free eating. Plantain chips and pinto beans ease you into the kit, while kelp noodles and vegan jerky might test your propensity for adventurous eating. Obviously, this is NOT the gift to force upon family members who have given no indication they are interested in a more veggie-forward diet—no need to make the holidays tempeh-stuous!

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For the Hangry Vegetarian/Vegan Minimalist:
Vegan Snack Kit, $40.10 at Thrive Market

Thrive Market

Or, for those already squarely in the vegetarian or vegan side of things, consider the gift of snacks. We all have that friend who is constantly eating (it’s me), and that friend who would prefer online gifts that don’t create a lot of clutter (it’s also me). This gift of Thrive Market’s Vegan Snack Kit is green in its enablement of a meat-free lifestyle, and it’s perfect for someone who enjoys trying new foods like Vegan Rob’s Probiotic Cauliflower Puffs or Pan’s Mushroom Jerky. Consume without all the consumerism!
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For the Planner:
Zero Waste Starter Kit, $43.95 on Amazon

Amazon

Some people really embrace the set-up around a new hobby or passion—these are the people who research the perfect racquet and shoes before ever setting foot on the tennis court. No judgement; for these people who get energized for new habits through new gear, this Zero Waste Starter Kit will help them embrace a greener lifestyle. Comprised mostly of food storage and lunch accessories, this kit includes a biodegradable travel cup, reusable bamboo cutlery, beeswax food storage wraps, and more. First the zero-waste kit; next, the zero-waste world!
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For the Wildcard:
MightyFix Subscription, $33-$114 on MightyNest

When you’re not sure exactly what your giftee might like, lead with the element of surprise. The promise of a MightyFix subscription is simple: “Each month we will send a fun, unique product that encourages a healthier, greener lifestyle.” A three-month subscription will cost $33 (plus a $3.95 shipping fee per box), and you can either choose the first gift yourself, selecting between a Stasher storage bag, Bee’s Wrap food wrapping, or a Swedish dishcloth (all reusable, of course)—or, you let MightNest choose the first send gifts online from their most popular items, making this present a surprise for all involved.
Buy Now

For the Tidy Chef:
Seasons Cleanings Bundle, $22.95 on Grove Collaborative

Grove Collaborative

For most of us, cooking doesn’t end when the meal is finished—there’s usually cleanup to be done. As I’ve learned, cleaning is more fun when using products that smell nice and aren’t full of chemicals, like the Mrs. Meyer’s soaps and cleaning spray in this Seasons Cleanings Bundle.

Grove Collaborative upholds high standards like non-toxic ingredients and minimal packaging with its products and partners, plus they offset the carbon footprint of every shipment! This means you get quality plant-based products from a company that funds earth-friendly initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. With scents like Iowa Pine, Orange Clove, or Peppermint, this bundle is sure to get eco-minded chefs in the holiday mood.

source - https://www.chowhound.com/food-news/245572/gift-guide-2019-eco-friendly-food-gifts/