12/16/09

Remember furry, wild friends by spending the afternoon decorating an outdoor tree. Cover pinecones in peanut butter and roll in bird seed. Hang oranges, apples and pears with sisal string. String frozen grapes to create a jewel-toned, edible garland. The animals will enjoy the treats and you'll start a new tradition in your home. 12/17/09

12/15/09

If you have old prescription pills or medicine, the old way of thinking was to flush them down the toilet. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service advises against it; a chemical cocktail of medicines has disrupted our natural ecosystem to dangerous levels. To properly throw away your medicine, pour it into a plastic bag and dilute it with water. Then mix in kitty litter or sawdust and seal the bag shut. Throw it away in your regular trash where it will be properly disposed.

12/14/09

Perfume is full of phthalates, chemicals designed to help dissipate fragrance. While phthalates do a good job of spreading your favorite scent, they can be harmful when breathed in. To smell good, look for USDA-certified organic fragrances, which are free of harmful chemicals and only use real, essential oil for their fragrance base.