9/14/13

Many of us volunteer our time with nonprofit organizations as a way of giving back to the community. Whether we're cleaning parks, planting trees or walking dogs at the animal shelter, we know giving time can make a difference. But did you know your actions are also tax-deductible? If you drive to volunteer, you can deduct 14 cents a mile and include tolls and parking. Using public transportation? Your fare is also fully tax-deductible. Photocopies, treats for shelter dogs, postage and art supplies are also deductible. Just make sure the organization is a registered 501(c)(3) charity in order to take advantage of the savings.

9/13/13

With summer on its way out, now is a good time to clean your gardening tools so they’ll be pristine and ready to use in the spring. If rust has encrusted trowels, shovels and shears, reach for this common item in your kitchen pantry: black tea bags. Brew a pot of strong black tea -- using about four bags -- and allow to cool. Pour the tea into a bucket, and fill it with cold water. Soak the tools for one to eight hours, depending how rusty they are. As the tools soak, the tannic acid in the tea gently attacks the rust. Remove the tools and scour them with a coarse brush or sponge. Your tools will be as good as new!

9/12/13

We all know that spending too much time outside on a sunny day can be bad for our health. But the ultraviolet radiation from the sun can be a natural and effective way to deodorize and kill smelly bacteria in hard-to-wash household items. On a sunny day, bring items like area rugs, yoga mats and throw pillows outside. Place them on a clean tarp away from animals and cars. Allow the items to absorb the sun’s rays for several hours to fully deodorize them.