Ditch plastic plants for the real thing. A few houseplants -- like ivy and even cacti -- will help naturally filter the air in your home by absorbing bad gases like formaldehyde and benzene all while absorbing CO2 and giving back oxygen. Ask your local nursery for drought-resistant plants if you have more of a brown thumb with live plants or look for beneficial plants such as aloe vera, which can have medicinal properties, too.

5/8/09

When guests come to visit you, ask them to scout your yard or nearby park for a unique rock to remember their visit. Ask them to sign their name, add a message and date it using a permanent ink pen. Place the rocks in a large jar or bowl and add to the collection as guests visit you.

5/7/09

Be smart about soap. Did you know most liquid detergents in the big, giant bottles are actually watered down? The manufacturers do this to make it appear you're getting more value for your buck. Instead, choose a super-concentrated detergent that only requires a small amount to clean a large load of laundry. Not only will it be easier to transport, but it's a green choice because less packaging is involved to make the product. Less packaging means less waste, which means less fuel is used to move more bottles to the store shelves. It all adds up!

5/6/09