Hard to Kill Houseplants

Do you have more of a black thumb?  This does not mean that you have to use fake plants.  There are many plants that are hard to kill for even the blackest of thumbs.  These various plants involve little maintenance and can survive in the least ideal conditions.

Are you still not convinced?  Keep reading the blog below to learn about these plants!  You can decide which plant fits your home and lifestyle.  Give it a try and you can have beautiful plants in your home in no time.

10. Philodendron – Philodendron bipinnatifidum

Pin It

It is said that the Philodendron has been used as a house plant since the time of the Victorians. As a tropical plant, it requires some sun, but this can be achieved by letting it sit outside during the day, or using artificial light within your home. It can go for days without being watered, but does prefer warm moist air. In any case this is a hard plant to ruin and is a great plant if you lack a green thumb. Photo by http://www.thegardenhelper.com

9. Christmas Cactus – Epiphyllum

Unlike most cacti, the Christmas Cactus isn’t one that’ll hurt you if you try to touch it. This cactus is an extremely easy plant to take care of, and usually doesn’t require re-potting. It’s important to be sure you don’t over-water it, but not watering it enough also damages the plant. To solve this, one thorough watering a week usually does the trick. This plant is extremely easy to take care of, and it’ll bloom once a year to bring some color into your living space.

8. Jade plant – Crassula ovata

The Jade plant is definitely one that catches eyes. With its out-of-the-ordinary leaves and pink flowers that bloom during the winter, the jade plant can make a good addition to your home. Because it only requires a little bit of sunlight and doesn’t need a lot of care, it’s the perfect plant that won’t die easily, no matter how much you neglect it.

7. Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

The Chinese Evergreen in just the last five years has been able to produce more than 20 different varieties. This plant is cold tolerant and doesn’t require a lot of attention to keep it alive. However, it is important to make sure that the plant isn’t over-watered, so making sure that the pot is well drained is a necessity. It is a slow growing plant, so re-potting isn’t a big issue until about a year or so.

6. Croton – Codiaeum

Though this plant is nothing but leaves, it surely adds a good amount of color to any bland room in your home. You will usually find these in a tropical garden, but recently they have become extremely popular indoor plants. These plants do need more light than most, but stay colorful throughout the year. Its important to water this plant enough, as drying can damage it. Source

5. Spider plant – Chlorophytum comosum

Originally found in South Africa, the spider plant is probably one of the most widely used houseplants. This plant is definitely different looking, as its point long leaves eventually bud into flowers, that then die and turn into smaller spider plants. The spider plant loves a lot of bright light and can stand any temperature. It doesn’t need to be watered everyday, but in the summer watering is very important.

4. Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum

Watering plants is an important part of keeping them alive, and since plants can’t talk, it can be hard to know when its time to water them, especially if you’re no gardening expert. However, the Peace Lily’s leaves will start to wilt, in order to let you know that it’s literally in dying need of water. The Peace Lily doesn’t need much light, and is marked by leaves that bloom a white tall flower

3. ZZ Plant – Zamioculcas Zamiifolia

The ZZ plant is one that you can take with you wherever you live. It doesn’t require a lot of space, and it can take neglect extremely well. The ZZ plant can live without having enough water, and doesn’t require a specific type of lighting in order to grow. It is a slow growing plant, but introducing it to more light can surely speed up the process. This plant is great for those die hard black thumbs.

2. English Ivy – Hedera helix

Though English Ivy best thrives outside where it can grow up to 100ft. long, it still makes a great indoors plant. When keeping an ivy plant inside, it’s important that it is given enough sunlight during the day. Besides this, ivy is a very easy plant to take care of in your home. Since ivy grows so much, it’s important that you have enough room for it. But, you won’t regret this plant. It cleans your air for you!

1. African Violet – Saintpaulia

Putting an African Violet in your home is a great way to add a touch of color. These plants don’t need direct sunlight, and are extremely hardy. They don’t need to be watered more than once a week, and its best that the plant is able to dry out before being watered again. You will find this plant offered in many different colors, including lavender, purple, mauve, and a two-color flower.

Top Ten Mother's Day Gifts

Are you a last minute shopper?  You do not have to fear.  We have the top ten best Mother's Day gifts for you to give to your loved one.  We have gifts for all price ranges and moms in the list below.

We even have included a list of gifts that are in the "don't" category.  This category will help you narrow down the choices that you have for her gift.  You may know what she likes, but do you know how to present that to her.  This blog will help. You can learn more at the CSMonitor.

If She Enjoys Flowers...

Don't: It might be tempting to pick up one of those colorful bouquets at the front of Target on the big day, but: 1) She'll know that's exactly what you did. 2) Everybody else will have the same idea, so pickings will be slim.

Do: How about getting her a gift that will bloom all year? (It will literally be the gift that keeps on giving.) Opt for a potted plant or terrarium instead of snipped blooms.

If She Loves Photos...

Don't: "Mom loves to display pictures. I should get her a digital picture frame." No. Stop. We've been over this; nobody really wants one of those, and even if they do, they realize the error of their ways soon after getting one.

Do: Instead of cramming hundreds of mediocre photos onto a tiny screen, focus on one outstanding picture. Pick (or take) a high-quality snap and spring for a nice, large print with a tasteful frame.

If She Likes Sentimental Jewelry...

Don't: Whether you're shopping department stores or jewelry specialists, chances are you've seen a lot of generic "mom" pendants; they're cute when they come from kids, but they become less adorable if you're a fully-grown adult.

Do: How about proving you put in a little effort by ordering a custom piece from Etsy instead? While it's true that those merchants may start with store-bought components, you'll be able to select birthstones and have names and dates engraved, resulting in a one-of-a-kind treasure. At this late hour, though, be sure to check into shipping deadlines by messaging the sellers.

If She Likes Fancy Jewelry...

Don't: The lure of diamonds and other precious gemstones is strong, especially when you're shopping for the woman who brought you into the world. But they can also bust your budget pretty quickly.

Do: Instead, you might want to consider pearls. They still have cache — think Audrey Hepburn and royal ladies throughout history — but they can be had at exceedingly small prices. For example, we saw a necklace and earring set for just $12 in March (while this gift set currently checks in at $28).

If She Keeps an Impeccable House...

Don't: A fancy vacuum may seem like a good idea if mom is always cleaning house. But the message it actually sends is that you think of her as your personal housekeeper, and you're just giving her a better tool to do her assigned job.

Do: How about giving her some time off (and acknowledging that you do recognize how much work she puts in to maintaining order) by gifting her with a visit from a cleaning service? Check daily deal sites for any local offers that might knock the cost down a bit.

If She Loves Designer Goods...

Don't: It's not worth blowing your savings on a high-end designer item you can't afford.

Do: While this is one area where a knockoff probably won't do the job, that still doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune. Check designer outlets for deals on name brands like Kate Spade and Tory Burch, when similar-but-not-identical just won't work.

If She Needs a Tablet...

Don't: The iPad mini may be the first thing that comes to mind, but wait — you can get far more value from your buck!

Do: A Kindle Fire HDX 7" tablet is definitely more cost effective; it currently sells for $199, whereas the iPad mini will cost you a least $200 for a refurb. Even if you throw in a year of Prime membership with the Kindle — which you should, because it adds features like streaming video (including HBO exclusives), video downloads, and the ability to borrow books — you're spending less overall and getting more, a skill mom would be proud of.

If Her Closet Is Her Castle...

Don't: Buying clothes as a gift is a notoriously tricky task. Pick up something that's too small, and mom will think you think she's fat. Too big, and pretty much the same thing will happen. And even if you do choose the right size, you may fall into the trap of projecting your style onto mom, and she'll still either have to return the item or banish it to the back of the closet or the giveaway pile.

Do: Play it safe and get her a gift card to a store she frequents, so she can shop for something she likes, and try it on before she buys.

If She Enjoys Being Pampered...

Don't: Items like foot spas and massage gadgets may seem like presents that will help mom relax and rejuvenate, but in reality those things will probably get used once or twice, then sentenced to life in the garage, because they take up time and space that mom just can't spare most days.

Do: A better idea is to strongly encourage a real getaway to relax, by purchasing her an affordable vacation, be it actual travel (there are always mind-bogglingly cheap cruises) or just a discounted night in a luxury hotel 5 miles from home.

If She Appreciates a Nice Meal...

Don't: There's nothing wrong with treating mom to dinner, but since this is a special occasion, you should avoid ho-hum options that she might go to on any given day.

Do: If you can't afford to take her somewhere nicer than the norm, trade spending money for spending time by preparing a meal yourself. Mom probably does this daily, so she'll appreciate the effort you put in. Just make sure you pay attention to the details so the result turns out to be really special.

Favorite Restaurant in Albuquerque

What is your favorite restaurant in Albuquerque?  The Guardian has a list of what they believe are the top ten restaurants in the city.  They have something for everyone from coffee to salads to chocolate.  Diners, Cafes, and Restaurants are plentiful in Albuquerque ,and they have a favorite dish for everyone.  Keep reading to learn about some of the best!

Chillz Frozen Custard's waffle sundae

Coffee and dessert duo: Michael Thomas Coffee and Chillz Frozen Custard

To bookend your day or whole trip might require caffeine and sweets. Excellent coffee can be found just south of Nob Hill at Michael Thomas Coffee, who roasts beans on the premises from all over the world. Have a cup and take some beans to go, then venture back toward the University of New Mexico's (UNM) campus for frozen custard straight out of the Midwest. Lighter than ice-cream, eggier than gelato, frozen custard is just right for the summer heat. The daily flavour could be anything from caramel espresso to tiramisu but is always backed up by chocolate and vanilla, served as scoops or turned into waffle sundaes.
• Michael Thomas Coffee, 1111 Carlisle Boulevard SE, +1 505 255 3330, michaelthomascoffee.com. Chillz Frozen Custard, 2720 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 265 5648, chillzcustard.com

Jennifer James 101

Jennifer and partner Nelle are the pair that made gourmet farm-to-table possible in Albuquerque, by serving simple food prepared expertly using as many local ingredients as possible. She put a farmer's name on the salad's arugula when that was only done in California, served foie gras off-menu to anyone who asked, converted countless beet haters with a divine pureed soup, then closed meals with cardamom ice-cream. 
• 4615 Menaul Boulevard NE, +1 505 884 3860, jenniferjames101.com

Sophia's Place

Dennis Apodaca started as a very good cook at a doomed burrito joint on 4th Street in the North Valley. When it was gone, he took over the tiny building and opening a little breakfast-lunch spot named for his daughter. Customers flood the cosy space for lemon ricotta pancakes, duck confit tacos, Asian-style noodle bowls and breakfast egg platters smothered in red chilli. After tasting his creations, few diners can believe that the kitchen that served them the best breakfast they've had all year is barely larger than a camper van.
• 6313 Fourth Street NW, +1 505 345 3935, no website

Mary & Tito's Cafe

Photograph: Hm Vanderbeek

New Mexican food near the UNM campus is an energetic local experience, but just a few miles away one can take in a complementary dining venue – that of working folks and families – while consuming amazing carne adovada. The recipe starts with a simple red chilli sauce containing barely more than dried red chilli pods, water, salt, and garlic. Served as-is like an earthen soup it can warm anyone's heart, but used to marinate then roast cubed pork results in edible ecstasy. If you see her, thank 90-year-old Mary for five decades of love, sweat and tears.
• 2711 Fourth Street NW, +1 505 344 6266, maryandtitoscafe.com

66 Pit Stop

New arrivals to the state will soon learn of the green chilli cheeseburger: it's simply the American favourite gussied up with fiery green chilli. Manyrestaurants have a "GCCB" on their menu; few are as memorable as the Laguna Burger. The 66 Pit Stop is a convenience store at the western edge of town where one can order a half-pound burger for under $5 then watch it cooked from one of a handful of seats. Once delivered, it will occupy both hands until gone, when reaching for the napkins is advised.
• 14311 Central Avenue NW, +1 505 352 7848, no website

Farina Pizzeria

At the Farina Pizzeria, east of downtown, a scorching oven cranks out thin crust pies to rival the best (in this country, anyway). The founding owners consulted with Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix before turning out their own charred creations such as the Pepe Caldo with broccolini, hot pepper and ricotta. Balsamic meatballs are a beloved starter along with a shareable chopped salad; to close, salted butterscotch budino may induce visible swooning.
• 510 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 243 0130, farinapizzeria.com

Torino's @ Home

Several years ago Maxime and Daniela Bouneou brought their vision of homestyle Italian greatness to town. Maxime is French, Daniela is Italian; together they make beautiful plates of delicious food. Daniela seems to radiate delight at greeting and then feeding everyone who walks through the doors. Diners are plied with salt cod, marinated figs, beef brisket ravioli, stuffed calamari and, if you trust the chatter, the best tiramisu anyone has ever eaten in the history of tiramisu.
• 7600 Jefferson Street NE, +1 505 797 4491, torinosfoods.com

The Frontier Restaurant

Directly across Central Avenue from the UNM campus sprawls nearly a half-block of legend: the five dining rooms of The Frontier Restaurant, home to late-night study sessions and Sunday morning families alike for over four decades. Locals appreciate fast service and burgers with chilli hot enough to scare the tourists, who appreciate the gooey-sweet cinnamon rolls. Everyone flocks to the breakfast burrito stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, crispy potatoes and green chilli. Until it closes down (perish the thought), no other place will ever win "best breakfast burrito" in town, for very good reason.
• 2400 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 266 0550, frontierrestaurant.com

The Grove Cafe & Market

Just as the local food movement was gaining traction in Albuquerque, a quirky market appeared between campus and downtown where stylish staff serve coffee and cafe nosh for discerning eaters. If that sounds twee, rest assured the experience at The Grove Cafe & Market is a serious endeavour serving food that are made just right. The swirl of honey butter on the oatmeal, the from-scratch English muffins, the side dishes of cut fruit or bean salad so good they are eaten before the shaved roast beef and pepper sandwich – that's the kind of place Lauren and Jason Greene wanted to launch over five years ago, and waiting for a seat is still a good idea.
• 600 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 248 9800, thegrovecafemarket.com

Monte Carlo Steakhouse

Sometimes only a steak will do. That steak should be broiled to order, served to exacting done-ness after an appetizer of chilled shrimp and an iceberg lettuce salad with blue cheese dressing, followed by … baklava? Only at the Monte Carlo Steakhouse, perched near the Rio Grande on Central. As with many other landmarks, it was opened by a local Greek family, proving that imported feta cheese works perfectly well on a steakhouse menu. On weekend nights the regulars plan a trip for the 12 ounce prime rib, but everyone saves room for that homemade baklava.
• 3916 Central Avenue SW, +1 505 831 2444, Facebook page

A Dessert to Try This Weekend

What are you making for dinner this weekend?  Here is a great Albuquerque themed dessert for you to make for your friends and family.  Keep reading and check out NY Daily News for more recipes and information.

Spicy Chocolate Chile Cupcakes

These doubly chocolate cupcakes, heated up with some spicy red chile, are extraordinarily special. These are perfect for everything from a birthday party to an afternoon tea-a great snack when you feel the urge for chocolate, and an ideal dessert for a chile meal. Frost them with your favorite chocolate butter cream frosting and if in a hurry, you can use the pre-prepared.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 14 tablespoon (1 ¾ sticks) unsalted butter
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla, preferably Mexican vanilla
• Pinch salt
• 2 tablespoon pure, hot ground red chile
• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup milk chocolate chips
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans

Directions:
Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 375°F. Place paper liners in 12 muffin cups. Place the semisweet chocolate chips and all the butter in a medium microwave-safe mixing bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and microwave on full power for 1 minute. Stir, and repeat until the chocolate and butter are just melted-do not overheat, as it will ruin the chocolate (If you prefer, you can melt the butter and chocolate together in a heavy saucepan. Start over medium heat and then switch to low for the best result, 6 to 8 minutes total). Place the eggs in a small bowl and lightly whisk them. Then add the sugar, vanilla, salt, and chile, and mix until well blended. Add the flour to the egg mixture and stir only until just blended. Add the chocolate-butter mixture, the chocolate chips, and the pecans, and mix only until just blended. Spoon the batter into the lined muffin cups, and back until just barely done, 30 to 35 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out almost clean, with perhaps a crumb or two. Place the muffin tin on a wire rack, and let it cool for 10 minutes. Then remove the cupcakes from the tin and let them cool completely. Makes 12 cupcakes.

Recipe courtesy of Jane Butel’s Southwestern Kitchen, www.janebutelcooking.com

Quick Healthy Recipes on the Go

Are you in a rush, but you still would like a healthy meal?  This happens to every busy adult.  Eating out every night can be expensive and time consuming.  However, here are some great easy and cheap recipes to give you a dinner at home.  Delish has some recipes that will be delicious for everyone.

Below you will find a list of 11 different healthy recipes that are easy to make.  There is something here for everyone's different tastes.  Try a recipe below and let us know how it tastes!

EatingWell Power Salad

With Swiss and turkey, this salad has everything you love from a deli sandwich or traditional chef's salad, but far fewer calories and way more veggies. Making it at home takes only minutes, saving you money you might have spent at a corner bistro or café.

Tuna and Bean Salad in Pita Pockets

Tuna salad takes a grown-up turn with this light and easy lunch. Cutting the mayo, we’ve added lemon juice and olive oil for a healthy and sophisticated taste. With great northern beans adding heft, this lunch might taste like a million bucks, but it won’t empty your pockets.

Taco Salad

Instead of snacking mindlessly on corn chips, prepare this easy and healthy taco salad. The chips can be used for dipping, and with reduced-fat sour cream and lean turkey, you can avoid the guilt. Making this dish at home is a lot cheaper than hitting up a Tex-Mex chain, and you’ll rest easy knowing where your calories are coming from.

Smoky Corn and Black Bean Pizza

Fresh vegetables mingle with barbecue sauce on this whole-wheat pizza, a lean alternative compared to take-out pies. This smoky grilled pie has a taste (and price) that neighborhood pizza joints can't match thanks to plum tomatoes, black beans, and corn cut straight from the cob.

Baked Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

By shopping sales and using pantry staples, this classic dinner can be turned into one of our least costly meals. We’ve seen cabbage on sale for well under a dollar a pound, so it’s a great vegetable for those on a budget. With only 265 calories a serving, this hearty dish is diet-friendly andaffordable.

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Talk about getting bang for your buck — this hearty meal will stick with you, filling you up without letting you down, so you can get the most out of your grocery list. It's also an easy source of protein, and the flavorful leftovers are perfect for a workday lunch that'll keep you going through the afternoon.

No-Bake Macaroni and Cheese

No-Bake and perhaps even "No-Shop"? We’d be surprised if you didn’t already have all of the ingredients for this easy weeknight dinner. Thanks to some frozen veggies, this meal is a great way to add some green to the diets of picky eaters.

Hamburger and Sour Cream Casserole

Believe it or not, this indulgent and classic casserole is low-calorie thanks to cottage cheese, reduced-fat sour cream, and lean ground beef. Using affordable ingredients like egg noodles and tomato sauce, you can rest easy knowing that while the taste might be indulgent, the grocery bill is anything but.

Old-Fashioned Spaghetti and Meatballs

This tasty take on the family favorite just got healthier: Baking the meatballs, instead of frying them, is a great way to cut fat, while bulgur and whole-wheat bread crumbs add fiber to the dish without affecting the taste. Besides boosting nutrition, these great grains also help your meat go further.

Mock Risotto

Thanks to pantry staples like instant brown rice, chicken broth, and frozen peas, this faux risotto is easy on your wallet — chances are, you’ve already got everything on hand. Reduced-fat cream cheese makes this speedy meal just as creamy as the real thing but cuts calories down to a respectable amount.

Balsamic-Glazed Roasted Chicken Breasts

Not only will bone-in chicken breasts save you nearly half the money you would have spent on their boneless counterparts, but they make for a more flavorful meal as well. With only 305 calories a serving, you’ll get a sophisticated and healthy dinner option without breaking the bank.

Stain Removal Tips

We have all had the stain in our clothing items that refuse to come out.   There may be a solution that you do not know about though.  Did you spill red wine on your dress at a party, or did someone spill it on your carpet?  Here are some great tips to make that stain disappear.  You can learn more cleaning tricks at Apartment Therapy.

STAIN REMOVAL STAPLES

I find the best way to deal with stains is to be prepared. I keep my cupboard stocked with enzyme detergent (best for removing protein-based stains such as food or sweat), rubbing alcohol, baking soda, Borax, and clean absorbent rags.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

I also follow these general guidelines: 1. Never apply heat (iron or dryer) to a stained piece of clothing until the stain is completely removed; and 2. Read the clothing label for washing instructions before cleaning. If the stain is on upholstery or carpet, the goal is to dissolve the stain with a solvent (often water or club soda) and pull it out with something more absorbent than the upholstery/carpet, like a sponge or rag. If using a harsher cleaning agent, make sure to test for colorfastness before accidentally bleaching the dye out of the fabric.

Some of the most common and most annoying stains are from red wine, ballpoint pen ink, and vegetable oil. Here are some techniques for cleaning them up.

RED WINE ON CLOTHING

1. When discovered, immediately saturate the stain with club soda, cold water, or white wine.
2. Blot with an absorbent cloth.
3. Sprinkle with salt and let stand 1-2 minutes, then rinse in cold water and rub stain out.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until it stops fading.
5. Rub liquid enzyme detergent into the stain and let stand 3-4 minutes, then rinse in cold water. Do not use natural bar soap or stain could set.
6. If stain is still visible, apply a spot stain remover.
7. Launder with liquid enzyme detergent.

WINE ON CARPET

1. Blot up as much wine as possible.
2. Soak the stain in club soda or cold water. Blot, and if necessary, repeat.
3. Make a paste out of water and either Borax or baking soda. Rub it into the stain and let dry.
4. Vacuum, and if necessary, repeat.

PEN INK

1. Place stained fabric on top of an absorbent cloth. Blot with water or rubbing alcohol (whichever removes more ink) until no more ink comes off stain.
2. Launder in hottest water safe for fabric.
3. If stain remains, lay it out in the sun to bleach the rest of the stain.

OIL

1. Apply a laundry presoak or clear (undyed) dish soap.
2. Wash in the hottest water safe for fabric.

If you have any useful stain-fighting tips, please let us know in the comments!

A Park Renamed in Albuquerque

Albuquerque’s a great place to spend time outdoors, whether you’re going to parks, for a hike, or just walking around the neighborhood around your apartment. But our outdoor recreation centers need our help!

A park in southwest Albuquerque is being named after a former state representative. State Representative Benny J. Aragon provided and gained support for the Westside community in Albuquerque.

Funds allocated by Aragon brought help and support to southwest Albuquerque. These funds allowed for parks, community centers, and other necessities that the area needed.

The former Carlos Rey Park near Carlos Rey Elementary in the southwest, is now known as Benny J Aragon Park, named after the former state representative.

The City Council president was at the park Sunday to honor the man.

The district’s senator says Aragon helped bring attention and much-needed funds to southwest Albuquerque.

“One of the things I’ve learned from Mr. Aragon is the Westside is just as important as any other community here in Albuquerque, and he made it so,” said Sen. Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque.

Supporters say Aragon managed to help bring money to the area to help provide community centers and parks.

You can learn more at KRQE.