more... > Parishes > Terrebonne > Family & Consumer Sciences > Family and Consumer Science News for October 2009 Many people feel fortunate that they managed to hold on to their jobs this year, but few were fortunate enough to see a pay increase. Many families are trying to figure out how to live on less and manage through hard times. Here are suggestions on how to trim your budgets and make it through these times. Avoid high-cost predatory home loan traps (Distibuted 09/02/09) With the current economic situation, home buyers have to be especially careful when shopping for reputable lenders. Beating the Breakfast Rush Hour Research shows that children who don’t eat breakfast feel restless, irritable and tired. With kids heading back to school, it is more important than ever that they eat a balanced breakfast to help them focus and behave well. Design a back-to-school breakfast that is balanced and tasty so kids won’t realize they are eating something that is good for them. 5 Easy Steps to Saving Money Saving money is crucial to your current and future security. Here are some "painlessly" easy ways to make saving a natural part of your life.  more articles... Spring Cleaning Helps Rid Home of Bedbugs [Image: Bed Bug] A clean home is a happy and healthy home. This year while doing your spring cleaning, watch out for bedbugs.We may think of bedbugs as happening somewhere else, but that notion can’t be further from the truth. Bedbugs can appear right under your nose or, more correctly, right in you own bed! "Eat Right" Theme for March Nutrition Month Even though most people agree that healthy eating is important, doing so may seem almost impossible when money is tight and time is short. Ever wonder where coleslaw got its name? [Image: Cole Slaw] The answer to this and other winter vegetable questions will be answered here. Local grocery stores and farmers markets have abundant supplies of delightful winter vegetables that are economical as well as nutritious for eating now. Top 10 No-Cost Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in Your Home When the cost of using energy in your home gets uncomfortable, you can do a lot to control how much energy you use in a southern climate. The LSU AgCenter recommends the following energy-saving ideas. Save Money on Food Shopping In these challenging economic times, the costs of groceries can be overwhelming. The LSU AgCenter offers some brief suggestions on ways to save money. This article suggests ways to save money while shopping and still eating healthfully. Tips for Holiday Shopping Holiday shopping is in full swing. We have just experienced Black Friday and are about to have Cyber Monday so the big question on our minds is -- How do we pay for all this shopping? Removing Odors from Refrigerators and Freezers after a Power Outage Some of the remains of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike are the persistent smells that seem to linger in your kitchen, your utility room, your storage area, or your garage. Those smells may be coming from your refrigerator and/or freezer. Knowing Your Blood Pressure Can Save Your Life [Image: Blood pressure check demonstration] Are you one of the 30% of adults who is not aware of your high blood pressure? May is National Blood Pressure Awareness Month and is a good time to find out if you are. Making Half Your Grains Whole [Image: Grains] The definition of a whole grain is one that has all parts of the grain, including the bran, the germ and the endosperm. To be sold as a whole grain, the first ingredient on the label must be whole wheat or the package must state that it is an excellent source of whole grains. Have The Right Answers Before Storm; Take ‘Hurricane Quiz’ Now This test of 20 questions can help you determine whether you and your family will be prepared if a hurricane comes your way. Click for more information...