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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

  • Three female teenagers wearing green blazers and khaki pants standing in front of the Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C.

    4-H: Something for Everyone

    “4-H has something for everyone.” If you’re like me, you’ve probably heard that phrase a time or two. As cliché as it sounds, it’s true. There’s a wide variety of activities and clubs that ensure that everyone has a place in 4-H.
  • Spinach dip in a ceramic bowl centered on a plate surrounded by cut celery, baby carrots, and sliced red bell pepper.

    The Food Factor: Spinach Dip Makeover

    It’s tailgating season, and there’s nothing like a buffet of snacks to rack up the calories. The Food Factor to the rescue! Here is a healthier take on your favorite spinach dip. Instead of chips, serve with cut-up veggies.
  • A mosquito sits on a person's arm.

    How to Reduce Mosquitos Around Your Home

    September has arrived, and that has me thinking about all things fall. But the reality is it’s still sweltering outside, and we’ve got several more weeks of defending ourselves against mosquitoes.
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    The Food Factor: Caribbean Casserole

    September is National Rice Month! To celebrate, we made this fast and filling Caribbean Casserole. It’s perfect as a quick weeknight entrée served with a side salad and fruit, or as a potluck dish. 
  • Dark brown soil in a small white box.

    Is it time to lime your landscape?

    You’ve spent all summer planting and maintaining your garden or mowing your lawn and are ready for a break. But before you put your landscape to bed for a long winter’s nap, consider applying lime.
  • Cauliflower and cheese tots on a parchment-paper lined baking sheet.

    The Food Factor: Cauliflower Tots

    If you have little helpers in the kitchen, put them to work making these tots. I love how versatile this recipe is – it can be an afterschool snack, an appetizer, or a healthy side dish. Bonus points for making vegetables FUN!
  • A group of yellow, orange and red flowers.

    What to Do in Your Garden in September

    How is it already September? I know I’m not the only one in disbelief that fall is right around the corner! Now’s a good time to prep your garden for the upcoming cooler temps.
  • A clear glass pitcher and glass with watermelon punch.

    The Food Factor: Watermelon & Lime Punch

    In Mississippi, the summer heat goes on forever. If you are ready for a break from the same old beverages, try this tasty and refreshing watermelon punch. You get the health benefits of fruit and hydration at the same time!
  • Two walls of a kitchen that has been flooded show significant mold damage and damage to the drywall.

    After a Flood: 4 Tips for Hiring Contractors

    When you’re ready to hire a contractor to repair or rebuild property damaged by flooding, keep these tips in mind to help avoid being scammed.
Mississippi State University Extension 130 Bost Drive Mississippi State MS 39762

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