9/2/12

If you haven't played that violin, clarinet or drum set in a long time, dust it off and recycle it! Many high schools will accept good-quality musical instruments for their music programs. The school will give the instrument to a student to use for the school year. Why give? Children with music education perform better in math and develop better problem-solving skills. Now that's something to sing about!

9/1/12

When cooking on electric stovetops, be sure to use the right size burners for the right size pans. If you're frying an egg in a small pan, use the smaller burner; use the larger ones for stockpots or large skillets. Using a large burner to heat up a small pan or pot can use up to 40 percent too much energy.

8/31/12

Even a durable plastic shower curtain liner needs to be replaced every once in a while. When you do, launder your old one, and save it for your next picnic or outdoor event. By laying the old waterproof liner on the ground and placing your blanket on top, you're helping to protect your blanket and create a waterproof environment to rest on. Even a little bit of dampness on the ground can build up over time, turning your evening in the park into a wet and soggy mess. Plus, you don't have to launder your blanket when you get home.