6/23/10

An easy way to add illumination to the backyard doesn't involve expensive solar or electrical outdoor lighting. All you need are some rocks and nontoxic glow-in-the-dark paint. Collect medium- to large-size rocks in your own backyard and slather them with a few coats of glow-in-the-dark paint. Allow them to dry and create a pathway with the rocks. They'll cast a glow when the sun sets and help lead you and your guests through the dark backyard, free of "charge."

6/22/10

If you like to chew gum, be sure to dispose of it properly. Gum that is thrown on the ground is more than just an eyesore; it's bad for the environment. Chemicals used to scrub sidewalks free of gum are very caustic and end up in our waterways. Instead, place your used gum inside the original wrapper and dispose of it properly.

6/21/10

Avoid the temptation to "top off" when using the gas pump. When filling up, allow the gas pump to automatically shut off when it's full; you'll hear a clicking sound and the gas nozzle stops pumping gas. Adding more gas can actually be a waste of money because gasoline is often fed back into the tanks via a vapor-recovery system, which prevents gas from escaping. When it's full, stop filling up.