11/27/10

Ziploc bags can be used again, but many people are worried about cross-contamination if the reused bag isn't sterilized properly enough. You can wash out a bag and air-dry and then reuse it to hold non-edible items. For example, when traveling, reuse a bag to hold toiletries when going through airport security. Bring a few extra-large bags to fill with smelly sneakers, socks or a wet bathing suit.

11/26/10

Many of us keep our Halloween pumpkins outside well after the holiday -- the cooler temperatures help preserve all types of gourds for months to come. When you are ready to toss them, don't think trash, but the backyard instead. Tossing them into the compost bin is one easy way to dispose of them, but you can also just bury a hole in the yard, fill it with the pumpkin, and cover it back up with soil. It'll slowly degrade, while giving back nutrients to the soil. The best part? It may even germinate into a mini pumpkin patch when the temperatures get warm again.

11/25/10

The prettiest place setting for your Thanksgiving feast is also a free one: leaves from the yard. Pluck autumnal leaves and use a permanent marker to write your guests' names on them. You can also use them at a buffet to identify side dishes and appetizers. You could mark "veg friendly" dishes for vegetarian guests, too.