9/11/13

When moving to a new home, some of the most expensive items movers charge to wrap up and carefully transport are flat-screen TVs. These pricey electronics can be broken and need to be wrapped with considerable care; some moving companies charge as much as $150 extra just to move one television. Instead of wasting money and packaging, use social media to see if someone you know recently bought a new TV. Use the old packaging -- a sturdy cardboard box and Styrofoam inserts -- to pack up the TV yourself.

9/10/13

In preparation for the cold winter months ahead, take the time to get your firewood properly seasoned and ready to use in your fireplace. Freshly chopped firewood can have up to 50 percent water content inside, which, when burned, can create air pollution and build up creosote in your chimney. Allowing the wood to properly season -- dry out -- can give you a clean source of energy for your home and is easy to do. Place the firewood in an area that is protected from the elements, and stack it to allow air to circulate. And if you think the firewood needs further protection from the elements, place a tarp on top to protect it.

9/9/13

If you're planning a party or theme event at home, there's no need to spend money on expensive downloads or CDs you're going to use only once. When you're looking for one-time use theme music -- whether it's classical, Broadway or children's tunes -- take a trip to the public library. You can go through the selection of CDs, borrow them for free and return them when you're done. Some public libraries even offer free downloads for a limited time.