Endangered animals can seem like a far-away problem, but there are likely threatened species, from birds to bears to bugs, in your own neighborhood. Invasive plants that overrun native vegetation and invasive animals without existing predators can combine to devastate native animal populations. Note the difference between invasive and non-native species; invasive refers specifically to species that thrive and overtake native species. Many non-native plants and animals are just fine. In fact most of our animal and plant foods are not native. When planting, choose plants and flowers that are native to the area. Native vegetation is more likely to attract native birds, butterflies and other insects, and other animals that may be endangered. Remove invasive weeds and non-native plantings in favor of local varieties. Build bird feeders suited to native species. Eliminate the use of chemical pesticides in your yard or garden in favor of natural deterrents. Give your local threatened or endangered species a fighting chance to thrive without dealing with unnecessary toxins. Water runoff can spread pesticide chemicals far from your home as well, so you will be benefiting a larger habitat than you might think. "Integrated pest management" is an option that relies on "natural" ways to combat pests and unwanted plants. If, for example, you have an aphid problem, try attracting lady bugs that feed on aphids. The feeling among people who practice permaculture (and others as well)is that if you have an abundance of snails or slugs in your garden, the problem isn't the abundance of snails and slugs, it's the lack of ducks who would eat the snails and slugs and keep them in check. Also, start composting to create natural, ultra-locally sourced fertilizer instead of relying on chemical-laced, long-distance hauled store brands. Many people dream of having the huge backyard with the pristine green lawn, but the growing encroachment of humans into wildlife habitats is a major cause of species endangerment. Consider turning your yard into an edible landscape. In drought-stricken areas like California, focusing on using native and/or drought adapted plants can help animal species survive. When it is time to move to a new home, think carefully about the amount of space you really need. Also consider the benefits of a smaller space (less mowing, for one!) as well as living in an area of existing development rather than a newly-carved suburban enclave. If moving is not on your to-do list, consider whether it is possible for you to reduce your footprint on your own property. Would you be able to permit part of your land to return to a more natural state -- for instance, by replacing lawn space with native plantings that you allow to grow freely?

Summary: Look for local species that need help. Grow naturally. Consider your space needs.

Diabetes can affect the extremities and cause pain, requiring you to choose exercises that work best with your abilities, until you feel better. Most doctors suggest that diabetic patients should start with no-impact or low-impact exercise. Your doctor may recommend that you see a physical therapist before you start exercising on your own. If you are new to exercise or you have recently injured a part of your body, then a physical therapist can lead you down the proper exercise path to help you recover. Go to sessions for 1 to 2 months before starting your individual workout program. You should have your name, your condition, a number to call and other instructions on the bracelet so people working out around you will be able to help you if anything goes wrong. Studies have shown that it is easier for people to adopt good behavior if they only have to focus on changing 1 thing in their life at a time. Follow your doctor's or nutritionist's recommendations for a month before starting to make workouts part of your day. Exercise moderately, immediately after three meals each day. This curbed risky blood sugar spikes all day. This works for people who do shorter/intermittent exercise on a daily basis. The study found those three short walks each day after meals were as effective reducing blood sugar within 24 hours as was a single 45-minute walk at the same moderate pace. The innovative exercise science study was conducted at the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services (SPHHS). Approximately 100 to 200 calories of healthy carbohydrates will work to keep your blood sugar steady, and you will benefit from the extra energy. However, do not eat right before your workout. Wear it around for a whole, average day to see how many steps you take. Set goals to do 1,000 more steps per day each week, resulting in the overall goal of at least 10,000 steps per day. Doctors recommend an average of 10,000 steps a day as a good parameter for judging if you have an active lifestyle. Stanford University scientists found that people that wear pedometers increase their overall activity by approximately 30 percent. Many people who commute, drive to stores or work in an office do not meet that goal. Think of diabetic exercise as an element of overall goal of an active lifestyle. Many towns and hospitals host these groups. Studies have found that diabetics, especially those over 60, change their behavior if they have a "contract" to exercise with a friend.

Summary: Consult your doctor for exercise recommendations. Buy a medical identification bracelet to wear at all times, and especially when exercising. Figure out your diabetes-safe diet before you start an exercise regime. Eat a doctor-approved snack about 1 and a half hours before you work out. Use a pedometer. Ask a friend to start exercising with you, or find 1 at a diabetic support groups.

Heat the butter in a wide pan, until there are just a couple small pieces of butter left. Remove from heat so it cools while you move on to the next step. If you're feeling extra fancy, clarify the butter by skimming off some or all of the milk solids. Their removal will make the sauce thicker, but less rich. Alternatively, just let these sink to the bottom of the pan, and decide what to do with them when it comes time to pour. . If you don't have a double boiler, just fill a pan about a full of water and heat until you see a couple thin streams of bubbles. Place a heat-safe metal or glass bowl snugly on top of the pan, without touching the water. This indirect heat reduces the risk of your sauce burning and separating. Add four egg yolks and 1 tbsp (15mL) lemon juice to the double boiler. Whisk constantly and vigorously until the mixture becomes frothy and lighter in color, and the whisk leaves trails in the mixture. An experienced chef can achieve this in a minute or two, but 510 minutes is common for a first try. Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally as well. Any egg left sitting in place might scramble. If the egg mixture gets too hot, it will curdle or "split" into solids and liquid. If it starts to feel too hot or steams heavily, pick up the bowl with an oven mitt or towel. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to cool the eggs down, then return to heat. The first few times you make hollandaise, it can be difficult to identify the right temperature. To play it safe, do this for a few seconds, once a minute. If the mixture starts to curdle, immediately scrape it into another bowl and whisk rapidly with 1 tbsp (15mL) ice water. Pour the butter in a small, steady stream, whisking constantly and vigorously. The sauce should thicken easily at first, then become more difficult to combine. Pour more slowly as this happens, since too much butter can cause the sauce to split. This step can take anywhere from 25 minutes. Once you're more experienced, you can add the butter ladle by ladle, or even in two large batches. This risks splitting the sauce, but if you succeed you'll have a faster, airier hollandaise. Stir in salt and cayenne pepper to taste. You may also whisk in a little more lemon juice if you want a tangier flavor. If the sauce is thicker than you prefer, whisk in a little hot water. Until you finish the other ingredients, cover the bowl and place in a warm spot. Cool temperatures may split the sauce. If the sauce gets too thick, whisk in a few drops of warm water before serving.
Summary: Melt the butter. Set up a double boiler Whisk egg yolks and lemon juice together. Watch for signs of separating. Add the butter gradually. Adjust the spices and liquids. Keep in a warm place.