12/16/11

Outdoor potted plants that can't be brought indoors, like shrubs and evergreens, can be protected from the cold, harsh winter weather by upcycling simple bubble wrap. Wrap the pots with a few layers of old bubble wrap and use shipping tape to secure it in place. The air pockets will help insulate the roots of the plant in the same way a greenhouse would, protecting it from the freezing elements. Come springtime, remove the bubble wrap and your plant should thrive in the warmer months.

12/15/11

If you have to have a car where you live, you know how expensive it can be to fill up your tank. Smartphone apps can help you find the lowest price on gas when you're out and about doing errands. The free app from GasBuddy.com helps you find the lowest price for fuel wherever you are; it scans more than 243 websites to track and find you the best prices in real time.

12/14/11

A lot of people will splurge on a designer handbag or accessory before attending an important milestone event, like a wedding or reunion. Instead of spending tons of money on something you may regret purchasing later, think green by renting instead. At websites like RentMeaHandbag.com and BagBorroworSteal.com, you can rent designer duds much like you would rent a DVD: You pay only for the amount of time you use it. Name-brand bags can be yours for as little as $10 per week.