summer

Though we had a cold and breezy spring this year, summer in Philly never disappoints regarding its sweltering temperatures, steamy sidewalks, and heat-induced malaise. In Chinese Medicine, “summer heat” merits its own category as one of six external factors that...

I have a rocky relationship with water. I am often negligent and forget to drink water during the day, especially during the summer. I’ve even fainted a few times from dehydration and heat exhaustion. This didn’t mean I didn’t drink a lot during the day. I did. I just didn’t drink a lot of water. In recent years, I’ve fixed this problem by always having a reusable water bottle on hand and by sometimes drinking water substitutes. Water substitutes are a different way to look at water. As such, I have complied a list of five favorite fun ways to drink water. 5 Fun Ways to Drink Water this Summer:

It’s that time of year again! Summer is here, or rather, a few short days away, marking the return of many of the city’s farmer’s markets and their bounties of fresh and local summer fruits and vegetables. Don’t want to miss your favorites? Here’s a quick guide to the summer’s harvests.  Summer Guide to Philly’s Farmer’s Markets:

Happy Friday! The upcoming holiday on Monday means we get to kick off a loooong (and much-needed) weekend. Have plans to head to the shore or mountains? Make sure to lessen your carbon footprint this holiday weekend regardless of where you go. Here's a few quick tips to stay sustainable:

Wondering what to do with that abundance of CSA or farmers market vegetables? This ratatouille recipe kills two birds with one stone - ensuring you don't waste any errant vegetables and meeting your daily veggie quota. I used the local vegetables I had on hand but this recipe would also work well with mushrooms, eggplant or anything else that appeals to you. Ratatouille is a traditional French dish, but I have Italian in my blood so I used plenty of seasonings you might find in an Italian dish. I was really pleased with the results. Click through for the recipe!

I'd be hardpressed to think of a time when grilling is more appropriate than the week surrounding the Fourth of July. Something about bbqing feels ultra American and festive. So, get your grill on but don't forget these eco-friendly tips. (Read on after the jump!)

Do: Wash your car on the lawn – the rinse water will water the lawn & divert from storm drains. Don’t: Wash your car in the driveway. Water that runs from your car on the driveway easily enters storm drains and into rivers,...