Extension for Real Life

Description

Extension for Real Life is a product of the MSU Extension Service’s Office of Agricultural Communications.

That’s a long way of saying we are professional communicators who get to talk about food, families, 4-H, flowers, and farming for a living.

Blog content is created by a core team of communicators, including Susan Collins-Smith, Ellen Graves, Natasha Haynes, Qula Madkin, Michaela Parker, and Jonathan Parrish. But we get by with a lot of help from our friends in Ag Comm and Extension!

You can reach us at 662-325-2262 or extreallife@msstate.edu

  • A woman stands on the front steps of a home.

    How to Reduce Stress by Moving More

    Because many families are celebrating this holiday season a little differently, we might feel a little stressed. One of the things that helps me stay grounded during this time is physical activity. It’s one of the most important things you can do for your health.

  • A white mask hanging on Christmas garland.

    Tips for a Happy, Healthy Holiday Season

  • Hot cocoa sprinkled with cinnamon in a terra cotta mug

    The Food Factor: Spiced Cocoa

    Nothing says “happy holidays” like a cup of hot cocoa! This year, treat yourself to a homemade treat—spiced cocoa from scratch!

    Sure, opening a premade mix is easy, but once you try these delicious homemade options, it will be hard to go back to the packets!

    Enjoy, and happy holidays from The Food Factor crew!

  • Yellow flowers turned brown.

    Gardening Tasks for December

    12/12. We’ve finally reached the end of 2020. I think everyone can agree that it’s been a heavy year. Here’s to 2021, right? I hope staying active in your lawn and garden has brought you a sense of normalcy during this crazy year. If anything, hopefully it’s been a good distraction!

  • Oven-roasted carrots in a clear glass bowl

    The Food Factor: Balsamic Roasted Carrots

    Need a quick side dish? Tired of your usual preparation methods? Try these Balsamic Roasted Carrots for a budget-friendly, flavorful veggie that goes with almost any main dish!

  • roasted turkey on a platter with herbs, cranberries, and orange slices

    Don’t Rinse Your Turkey!

    Before you put that giant turkey in the sink, STOP! Rinsing your bird before baking won’t reduce your chances of foodborne illness.

    In fact, if you rinse the turkey, you have a greater chance of getting sick because of cross-contamination.

  • Butternut macaroni and cheese in a clear glass bowl.

    The Food Factor: Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

    For many people, macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Traditionally, this calorie-laden dish is loaded with fat, fat, and more fat, plus simple carbohydrates in the pasta. Definitely not on the menu for people interested in healthier foods!

    But wait! You can have your mac and eat it too!

  • Closeup of ornaments and lights on a Christmas tree

    How to Care for a Real Christmas Tree

    Choosing, cutting, and bringing home a real Christmas tree is a fun, family tradition that makes memories to last a lifetime. If you plan to have a real tree this year, be sure to observe some safety rules.

  • A woman smiles in a kitchen.

    How Nutrition Impacts Diabetes

    More than 308,000 Mississippians live with diabetes, and approximately 600,000-750,000 Mississippians have prediabetes. Managing diabetes starts with maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Balancing what you eat is a great place to start. Here are a few tips!

Extension for Real Life