Emily Luchetti's Blog, page 3

What’s the Big Deal about Pumpkin Pie?

When I was growing up my family never had pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving. We had a turkey with all the trimmings but dessert varied from year to year – chocolate, apple -whatever my mom was in the mood to make. It wasn’t until I became an adult and went to other people’s houses on Turkey day that I discovered the fixation with pumpkin pie.

I asked my parents why we didn’t have the traditional dessert. Her response was ‘Your dad and I don’t really like pumpkin pie so we always made something else.” Maybe genetics is why I am not a big fan either. Don’t get me wrong, I love pumpkin and I make a great pumpkin pie. I can somewhat understand what attracts people but if it is on the buffet table it is one of the few desserts I will pass on. (Thank goodness there is at least one dessert I don’t feel obligated to try.)

The Pilgrims did have pies and pumpkin at their first Thanksgiving but the pumpkin wasn’t in the pie form we know today. They didn’t have many of the ingredients. In Colonial times autumn was pie making season. Pies were made to put away for later in the year. Cold cellars, acting as refrigerators or even freezers, would preserve pies for months. Mincemeat pie was popular because it preserved the meat. Today you don’t see it a lot of mincemeat on holiday menus but back then people were happy to have a way to stock up and not have their meat go to waste.

When Thanksgiving was first celebrated it was the major holiday of the year. Birthdays weren’t recognized and Christmas was for religious people. Religion was a big part of Thanksgiving with some people attending two sermons a day but it was also recognized in New England by Quakers and others who went to Meeting Houses and not churches. It was about giving thanks in general. Thanksgiving originally was not on a set day. A dignitary would select the day, anytime between the middle of October and the end of December. Each colony and then later when there were states, each state would celebrate when they chose to. Thanksgiving became a national holiday when President Lincoln decided it would be on the third Thursday of November.

We should celebrate the pumpkin this time of year as it is in season and grows locally practically everywhere. There are lots of wonderful things to make with pumpkin for dessert- cheesecake, cranberry pumpkin pecan upside down cake, pumpkin steamed pudding, pumpkin ice cream with caramel sauce. You don’t have to stop making pie, let’s just move beyond it and offer something new. Here’s a pumpkin recipe for something different. If you want to make pie, email me and I will send you a really good recipe. Even though it won’t be on my plate this year.

Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Upside Down CakeYou can make this a day in advance. Store at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap.Serves 8-108 ounces (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter1 cup firmly packed brown sugar2 cups cranberries4 ounces (1 cup) coarsely chopped pecans, toasted2 large eggs1 cup pumpkin puree6 tablespoons vegetable oil1 1/2 cups all purpose flour1 cup sugar1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoon cinnamon1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.

Melt the butter in a small saucepot over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and whisk until smooth. Pour the brown sugar mixture into the bottom of the cake pan. In a medium bowl combine the cranberries and pecans. Place them in the pan over the brown sugar mixture.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, and oil.

Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the flour mixture into the pumpkin mixture. Carefully spread the batter over the cranberry pecan topping.

Bake until a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35-40 minutes. Cool the cake for 10 minutes on a wire rack. Place a large plate or platter on top of the cake. Invert the cake and plate together. Remove the pan. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Cool completely before serving. Serve with Chantilly Cream.

Chantilly Cream                 Makes 2 cups1 cup heavy (whipping) cream3 tablespoons sugar½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all of the ingredients and whisk until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until you are ready to use.

Keeping Your Home Warm: The Best Windows for Canadian Winters

Canadian winters can be harsh, and keeping your home warm is essential for both your comfort and energy efficiency. Choosing the right windows can make a significant difference in how much heat is retained in your home. In this article, we’ll explore the best windows for Canadian winters and how they can help keep your home warm.

Double-Pane Windows

One of the most effective windows for retaining heat is double-pane windows. These windows consist of two panes of glass separated by a layer of air or gas. The insulating properties of the air or gas layer help to reduce heat transfer, making it more difficult for heat to escape your home. Double-pane windows are a popular choice for Canadian homeowners looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency. Choosing a company when installing windows in Canada, we have analyzed the main mistakes.

Low-E Coatings

Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings are a type of coating applied to the glass of windows that helps to reflect heat back into your home. This means that less heat is lost through the window, making it easier to maintain a warm temperature inside your home. Low-E coatings can be added to single or double-pane windows and are an effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Triple-Pane Windows

Triple-pane windows are another option for homeowners looking to keep their homes warm during the winter. These windows consist of three panes of glass separated by two layers of air or gas. The added layer of insulation helps to further reduce heat transfer, making it even more difficult for heat to escape your home. While triple-pane windows are more expensive than double-pane windows, they are an excellent option for those living in extremely cold climates.

Window Frames

While the glass in your windows is essential for retaining heat, the window frames also play a crucial role. High-quality window frames made from materials like vinyl, fiberglass, or wood can help to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency. Properly sealed frames also help to prevent drafts and air leaks, further improving your home’s ability to retain heat.

Keeping your home warm during Canadian winters is essential for both your comfort and energy bills. By choosing the right windows, you can improve your home’s ability to retain heat and reduce energy costs. Double-pane windows, low-E coatings, and triple-pane windows are all excellent options for improving energy efficiency. High-quality window frames made from materials like vinyl, fiberglass, or wood also play an important role in retaining heat. With the right windows, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home all winter long.

A Recipe for Making Change

I recently had the opportunity to talk sugar, actually excess sugar, with a smart group of people at the James Beard Foundation Food Conference. Our panel, Taming Sugar: Challenges and Solutions, moderated by Jonathan Halperin from the Sustainability Lab and joined by Laurie David, executive producer of Fed Up, and Cindy Gershen, owner of Sunrise Bistro and Catering, discussed the perils of sugar and the possibilities of ways to reduce the amount we consume.

Our conclusion: Education and awareness are the way to win the battle against excess sugar and everything it brings to bear including obesity and Type 2 diabetes.

A simple conclusion, yes, but the actual solution is much more complex. So we came up with a battle plan (a recipe of sorts):

Step 1. As individuals we must do our part. It’s people like Laurie David who had the passion to create Fed Up, a documentary that shows us how big of a problem we have to solve. Yes the movie is depressing, but it’s a needed wake up call. It’s people like Cindy who work daily with school kids teaching them how to improve what they eat, teaching them how to cook and what food is good for them. We need thousands of people like Cindy educating kids and adults across the county. The main premise behind my #dessertworthy campaign is the reduction of sugar-laden processed foods and saving desserts for a treat not a daily occurrence. MarionNestle, Robert Lustig and other healthy food advocates agree if we do this there is room in a healthy diet for the enjoyment of occasional desserts.

Step 2. Use our voice and our wallets. Food companies are not going to stop adding sugar in foods until we stop buying them. They are in the business to make money and it’s naïve of anyone to think they will stop on their own accord just because it’s not good for us. They respond to consumer demand. Yes there are food companies that produce good quality food and should be supported and applauded but they are smaller companies and we need everyone on board.

Step 3. Urge your congress person to make the right decisions about food policy. Right now they are debating school lunches. Let them know how you feel and that you’re paying attention. For me, kids need healthy food to grow mentally and physically. We are teaching them the wrong messages by keeping non-healthy highly processed foods in school cafeterias. Introduce treats once or twice a week. There’s still room for bake sales at schools. It’s a great opportunity to teach kids about how and when sweets should be eaten. It teaches kids to give to their communities and also raises money for good causes.

Step 4. Support a variety of approaches. There is no one-size-fits-all formula. We need to attack this problem at all fronts. We have to be supportive of all efforts that encourage healthy eating from the White House, food companies, schools and in Congress. Some approaches will be more successful than others but they all will help raise awareness. No one program will solve the problem but together they will and we can.

It is time to get started on this recipe for change. As Sam Kass, President Barack Obama’s Senior Policy Advisor for Nutrition Policy and Let’s Move Executive Director said at the JBF Food Conference, “Engaged citizens have an impact.” We can change our diets, what we buy, our food policies and we can save lives

The Top Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Window Installation Company in Canada

Replacing your windows can be a significant investment in your home, both in terms of cost and the benefits you’ll receive. Choosing the right window installation company is a critical part of ensuring your investment pays off. Unfortunately, many homeowners in Canada make common mistakes when choosing a window installation company. In this article, we’ll explore these mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them.

Not Doing Your Research

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when choosing a window installation company is not doing your research. It’s essential to take the time to research potential companies, read reviews, and ask for references. A reputable company should be able to provide you with examples of their work and references from satisfied customers.

Focusing Only on Price

Another common mistake is focusing only on the price of the installation. While cost is undoubtedly a factor to consider, it’s essential to balance cost with quality. A low-cost installation may seem appealing, but it could result in a lower quality installation, leading to issues down the road. Choose a company that offers competitive pricing while still providing quality work. Why is it important to ask for help installing windows? More details in the article.

Not Considering the Company’s Experience

Experience is an essential factor to consider when choosing a window installation company. Companies with years of experience are more likely to provide quality work and have a track record of satisfied customers. Be sure to ask about the company’s experience, training, and certifications before making a decision.

Overlooking Customer Service

Customer service is another critical factor to consider when choosing a window installation company. A reputable company should provide excellent customer service from start to finish, including answering your questions, providing clear communication, and addressing any concerns you may have. Choose a company that prioritizes customer service to ensure a positive experience.

Failing to Verify Insurance and Licenses

Before choosing a window installation company, it’s important to verify that they have the necessary insurance and licenses to perform the work. This protects you in the event of any accidents or damage during the installation process. Always ask for proof of insurance and licenses before making a decision.

Choosing the right window installation company is a critical part of ensuring a successful window replacement project. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of selecting a reputable and reliable company. Take the time to do your research, consider the company’s experience and customer service, and verify their insurance and licenses. By following these tips, you can ensure that your investment in new windows pays off for years to come.

Dessert Doesn’t Have to Kill You: 10 Ways to Living a Healthier Life (Without Giving up the Occasional Sweet Treat)

It is true: eating healthy means saying no to fatty and high sugar foods more times than saying yes. As a pastry chef I am surrounded by 5-pound bags of good chocolate and the enticing smell of cakes, cookies and pastries coming from the oven. And, like all of us, I’m bombarded by images of sweet, salty, gooey treats all day long.

All of this has contributed to the country’s obesity problem, to the rise in Type 2 Diabetes and out of control healthcare costs. All of the sugar and fat is clogging our arteries and our society.

But dessert does not have to kill us! Over the last few weeks, many of you have shared your ideas about what is #dessertworthy and we’re starting the conversation about how to return dessert to its rightful place in our diets.

As this conversation grows, many asked how to resist the urge. It’s hard. I have had to train myself to not constantly eat, eat, eat, as I make the treats that our customers at Marlowe, Park Tavern and Cavalier enjoy.

Here are some of the tricks I have adapted over the years to help me eat healthier and truly enjoy those special treats I make with friends and family or enjoy when I eat out.

• No sugar before noon. I start my day with an egg, tomato and toast or almond butter on toast. (You can make your own almond butter by processing toasted almonds in the food processor until smooth but buying it is simpler. I like Justin’s and Trader Joe’s.) Most muffins are about as healthy as a piece of layer cake. Buy plain yogurt and add your own fruit (out of season frozen fruit is available without added sugar). Offer your brain or body some good “fuel” to get you through the morning.

• Create some comfort foods in your food arsenal that are healthy. (For me that’s brown rice with olive oil and Maldon salt, whole wheat pasta with red sauce, avocado and sliced tomato, a handful of toasted almonds with a couple small pieces of 80% chocolate), leftover roasted veggies. If you have a bad day and that chocolate chip cookie is calling your name, it’s good to have other go-to options.

• When I cook veggies for dinner I always make extra. This way I have some to snack on the next day. Here’s a recipe from my friend, Lidia Bastianich, fordelicious veggies that are even better the next day.

• Look at food packaging and avoid all processed food with added sugar. Save your sugar calories for real desserts and real pleasure. I limit my sugar consumption to desserts – not snuck into food as a preservative. When I eat something I ask myself if it’s for physical nourishment or emotional pleasure. Both are important but you have to be honest with yourself.

• When you do enjoy an occasional dessert, don’t feel guilty. Guilt destroys the pleasure both physically and emotionally of the dessert and then it’s a double waste of calories. When I have a dessert I enjoy every bite. Make it a conscious choice. For me an all-time favorite is a simple chocolate chip cookie.

• Portion Control: It works, I promise. Have a few bites or a thin slice of a cake or pie — not a supersized piece. The second half of a big piece doesn’t taste nearly as good as the first.

• Don’t give in. Keep control. When you splurge, recognize your body chemically loves sugar and will want more. After I finish testing a lot of desserts for articles or a new restaurant menu it takes me a couple of days to not crave sugar. Instead of giving in to the craving, I will go for a walk, munch on a few nuts, call a friend or do a load of laundry – anything that keeps my body moving and my mind occupied.

• Don’t eat leftover desserts. Tarts and pies taste much better the day they are made. If you have leftovers, pack them up and give them to a friend or colleague. One pie, split between 12 people at work, is better for everyone.

• At home, unless I am testing desserts or having people over for dinner, I never have desserts in my kitchen. I save desserts for when I go out to a restaurant or am entertaining.

• Know your weak points. Unlike my sister-in-law who has amazing willpower and won’t touch ice cream in her freezer, my willpower is zip. If I am working at my computer or even cleaning the house, the ice cream will be calling my name, trying to lure me in, so I don’t keep it in the house.

• Get pleasure out of things contradictory to desserts. Yes I like a warm juicy pie fresh from the oven but I also like not having a big butt. Life’s a trade-off and you can’t have everything all the time. It’s the same with food.

Overall, make your dessert choices #dessertworthy. We are all so pressed for time and bombarded with quick and easy options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Just because they are quick doesn’t mean that they are good for you or even that they taste good. By making smart choices along the way you can both eat healthy and enjoy a special sweet treat.

The Importance of Asking for Help with Window Installation

Installing new windows in your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience. New windows can enhance your home’s energy efficiency, improve its appearance, and provide a variety of other benefits. However, window installation can also be a challenging and complex process, especially if you don’t have experience with this type of work. In this article, we explore why it’s important to ask for help when installing windows in Canada, and how to find the right professionals for the job.

Safety Concerns

One of the most important reasons to ask for help with window installation is safety. Windows can be heavy, awkward to handle, and require specialized tools and equipment. Without the right knowledge and experience, attempting to install windows yourself can lead to accidents, injuries, or even damage to your home.

Technical Expertise

Window installation also requires technical expertise, including knowledge of building codes, proper sealing techniques, and the use of specialized materials. Professional installers have the training and experience needed to ensure your windows are installed correctly, maximizing their energy efficiency and durability.

Quality Assurance

Professional window installers also provide a level of quality assurance that is difficult to replicate with a DIY approach. A reputable installer will ensure that your windows are installed correctly and will stand the test of time, providing you with peace of mind and protecting your investment.

Finding the Right Installer

When it comes to finding the right professional window installer in Canada, it’s important to do your research. Look for companies with a track record of quality work and excellent customer service. Ask for references and read online reviews to get a sense of the company’s reputation. You can also ask friends and family members for recommendations.

Getting a Quote

Once you’ve identified a few potential window installers, it’s important to get a quote for the work. This will help you understand the cost of the installation, as well as any potential fees or additional costs. Be sure to ask about any warranties or guarantees that are offered, as well as any payment options that are available. Like the article? Read also about ideal windows.

Installing new windows in your home can be a rewarding and valuable investment. However, it’s important to recognize the challenges and risks associated with window installation, and to seek the help of professional installers when needed. By working with a reputable window installation company in Canada, you can ensure that your windows are installed safely, correctly, and to the highest standards of quality. Contact a window installation professional today to learn more about your options and to get started on your home improvement project.

Asking for Your help on #dessertworthy

Dear Friends,

Over the last several months, I’ve become especially interested in trying to start a conversation about the proper place for dessert in our lives. The facts are terrifying:

One hundred and fifty-six pounds. That’s how much added sugar Americans consumes each year on a per capita basis, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Imagine it: 31 five-pound bags for each of us.Nearly one in three (31.8%) U.S. children (23.9 million) ages 2 to 19 are overweight or obese.All in all, obesity and overweight account for nearly one of every 10 American deaths, and they also drain our society of $223 billion a year.But what can I, what can we, do about it?

We can start by simply starting a conversation about what makes a dessert worthy to eat and when we should pass and save our calories for later.

Sugar and fat have become something we eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner – and every snack in between. These bad habits are hurting our health and society. It’s time we took control of what we put in our mouths. Desserts with sugar and fat aren’t necessarily the villains. It’s the amount they are consumed which we need to address. We need to recalibrate and enjoy desserts as a treat, not something to be eaten every day or even several times a day.

What is a dessert? By definition it’s a sweet cake, pie, pudding or cookie served at the end of a meal. But with the amount of sugar and fat in most breakfast items, sodas and other processed foods many people are having the equivalent of a dessert during or in place of a meal.

A mass-produced preservative laden chocolate cake or cookie made in a factory the size of a football field doesn’t taste as delicious as it’s homemade equivalent whether you or a pastry chef in a bakery or restaurant made it.

Desserts should taste incredible or we shouldn’t waste our time or the calories. Our health depends on it.

On August 1, I’m going to start tweeting and using social media to spread the word about the proper place for dessert in our lives using #dessertworthy. My feeds will be filled with pictures (and recipes) of delicious and special desserts.

It might seem counterintuitive for me, a pastry chef, to start this conversation but if not me then who? We need to change the way Americans are consuming dessert. This isn’t about forcing people to eat “healthy” desserts. It’s a movement to get people to reduce the amount of sugar and fat they consume and recognize which desserts are worth enjoying, which ones aren’t and when. Considering the amount of food those of us in the food business are surrounded by every day we eat pretty healthily. If we can do it the public can do it too.

You can help me. When you enjoy a dessert using natural ingredients that is truly worthy of the calories take a picture and post it on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook with the hashtag #dessertworthy. When you pass on a dessert or something sugar and fat laden post it with the hashtag #notdessertworthy.

This isn’t a big campaign, yet. No corporate underwriting, no sponsors and no fancy websites. Just me using social media and my website to start the conversation. Hopefully you can join me and please ask others too. A few months from now I hope we have thousands of people sharing their pictures.

I’ll be posting on Twitter @emilyluchetti, on Instagram emilyluchetti and on my Facebook page www.facebook.com/emilyluchettidesserts.

Share your posts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using #dessertworthy.

Thanks for your help and your support. I am hoping you will help spread the word and become part of the conversation. #dessertworthy is a small thing that over time can have a big impact in helping change the way we think about dessert and healthy eating.

Enhancing Your Living Room with the Perfect Windows

The living room is often the heart of a home, a place where families gather to relax, socialize, and enjoy each other’s company. But what about the windows in your living room? Are they providing the right balance of natural light, ventilation, and privacy? In this article, we explore the different types of living room windows that Canadian homeowners love, and how they can transform the look and feel of any living space.

Large Windows

Large windows are a popular choice for living rooms that want to create a bright and open space. They allow natural light to flood the room, making it feel more inviting and energizing. Large windows also offer beautiful views of the surrounding area, which can be particularly appealing for homeowners located in scenic locations. However, it’s important to choose windows with energy-efficient features to keep heating and cooling costs down.

Bay Windows

Bay windows are a classic choice for living rooms, providing a cozy and intimate seating area while also letting in plenty of natural light. These windows feature a protruding design that creates a small alcove, perfect for reading, relaxing, or enjoying the view. They also add character and charm to any living room, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance to their space.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are a practical choice for living rooms that require a balance of ventilation and natural light. These windows feature two or more panels that slide open horizontally, providing a wide opening for fresh air to flow in. They are also easy to operate and maintain, making them a popular choice for busy families. Improving Your Corporate Image: Windows for Business

Picture Windows

Picture windows are a great option for living rooms that have a beautiful view, as they offer an unobstructed view of the outdoors. These windows are fixed, meaning they do not open, but they provide plenty of natural light and can make a living room feel larger and more spacious.

Window Treatments

Once you have chosen the perfect living room windows, it’s important to consider window treatments to provide privacy and style. Curtains, blinds, and shades can all add a personal touch to your living room while also providing necessary privacy when needed.

Living room windows are an important element of any home’s design and can greatly enhance the look and feel of your living space. By incorporating high-quality windows into your living room, you can create a bright and inviting space that is perfect for relaxation and socializing. Contact a reputable window company today to explore your options and transform your living room into a brighter, more beautiful space.

Got Pie?

We all know late spring and summer to be baseball season, allergy season and fog season but for me it’s also pie season. I make an endless variety of desserts using fruits but pie has a special place. When I make desserts at home for the next few months it’s almost always pie. It starts with strawberry-rhubarb and quickly expands to cherry as soon as they are at the market. Apricot, raspberry, and blueberry follow as soon as possible.

Nothing beats pie from the making to the eating.

It’s kind of an art to make one but it isn’t difficult. Take your time and focus. Make the same pie recipe several times. Once you get the hang of it you will find it relaxing. I promise.

I use all butter in my crusts, no shortening. While many believe the latter gives a flakier crust you can get a wonderful texture with butter and you get the butter flavor.  Shortening crusts taste bland. They also don’t get that beautiful golden brown color you get from butter.

Pulling a pie hot from the oven with its brown crust and bubbling fruit is a sight to behold. You wait until it cools just enough so the fruit settles and you don’t burn your mouth when you take a bite.

Unless a pie has a cream or custard filling never refrigerate it. Like a tomato, its flavor and texture decrease once you do. If you want to warm it don’t put it in the microwave. Eat a piece warm from the oven or reheat in a preheated 350 degree oven for 5 minutes.

Pie doesn’t need fancy garnishes or presentation. The only thing you have to do after putting a slice on a plate is decide if you are going to eat it with whipped cream or ice cream.

Email me at info@emilyluchettiblog.com if you want a recipe for strawberry-rhubarb or blueberry pie.

Enhancing the Corporate Image: Windows for Canadian Businesses

As the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. For businesses, this is especially true. From the moment a potential customer or client sets foot in your establishment, they are forming opinions about your brand, your products, and your services. One key element that can greatly enhance the image and reputation of a business is the windows. In this article, we explore the different types of corporate windows that Canadian businesses love, and how they can transform the look and feel of any commercial space.

The Importance of Corporate Windows

Corporate windows are more than just a way to let in natural light. They can help create a welcoming and professional atmosphere for clients and customers, and can provide important benefits for employees as well. By incorporating high-quality windows into their commercial spaces, Canadian businesses can improve energy efficiency, enhance security, and create a more productive and comfortable work environment.

Large Windows

Large windows are a popular choice for businesses that want to create a bright and open space. They allow natural light to flood the room, making it feel more inviting and energizing. Large windows also offer beautiful views of the surrounding area, which can be particularly appealing for businesses located in scenic locations. However, it’s important to choose windows with energy-efficient features to keep heating and cooling costs down. Read also how to brighten up your kitchen with the right windows.

Tilt-and-Turn Windows

Tilt-and-turn windows are a versatile option for businesses that need to balance security, ventilation, and natural light. These windows can be opened fully to allow for maximum ventilation, or they can be tilted inward to provide a more controlled flow of fresh air. They are also available with special features like laminated glass or reinforced frames for added security.

Soundproof Windows

Soundproof windows are an excellent choice for businesses that are located in busy or noisy areas. They feature specialized glass that is designed to block out unwanted noise, creating a more peaceful and productive work environment. Soundproof windows are also a great option for businesses that require privacy, such as medical offices or law firms.

Low-E Windows

Low-emissivity (Low-E) windows are a popular choice for businesses that want to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. These windows are designed to reflect heat back into the room during the winter, while keeping heat out during the summer. They also block harmful UV rays, which can cause furniture and fabrics to fade over time.