03/23/12

An unusually warm winter has led to a huge bumper crop of strawberries from Florida. This is the time to stock up on organic berries -- a must-buy item since strawberries are very porous and absorb anything sprayed on them -- at a fraction of the normal price. Place washed and de-stemmed strawberries on parchment paper-lined cookie sheets in the freezer. When frozen solid, place them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and you'll have frozen berries ready to go all season long.

03/22/12

If you have old furniture you want to replace in your home, don't think donating to charity is your only green option. Many local auction houses will come to your home, assess your furniture and sell it for you -- taking a small cut of the sale prices, of course. Auction houses aren't just for pricey masterpieces and antiques. Most companies will sell all sorts of things, ranging from furniture and decorative accessories to tableware and more. Check your local listings, and see if your old stuff is worth some cash.

03/21/12

Ever wonder how to recycle a toothpaste tube? Since most tubes are made from a hard-to-recycle plastic, you can either reuse them or toss them in the trash. Here's one crafty idea: Save them to make sheaths for sharp scissors in your crafting and sewing drawers. Simply cut off the cap end of the toothpaste tube, wash out the inside and insert scissors. This is a helpful way to protect small hands from getting hurt while rummaging through drawers.