To keep mice from coming indoors, look to your green thumb for a decorative and nontoxic way to fence them out. Plant large patches of mint around the perimeter of your house as a ground cover; mice detest mint and it will act as a deterrent to them. Mint is easy to grow and can easily be grown from seed; for faster results, many nurseries sell seedlings that are ready to plant. You can also pluck fresh mint for cooking or steep tea from it, too.

4/12/09

Ask if your local animal shelter is in need of newspapers. Many animal shelters depend on donations of old newspapers so they can use them as shredded bedding for orphaned animals. While you're there, consider adopting a stray cat or dog to be a loving companion in your own home or volunteer some time helping the shelter with their charitable works.

4/11/09

4/9/09

When cleaning the lint trap from your dryer, don't throw it away. Instead, place it outside where birds can easily find it, near a bird feeder or bird bath. Break up the dryer lint into small, manageable pieces. They'll pick up the soft mass and use it to feather their nests. 4/10/09