3/27/14

Habitat for Humanity is known for building affordable housing for people in need in communities all over the United States. But did you know it also accepts good-quality building materials that they resell at low prices to fund its charitable works through its ReStore shops? Items like working appliances, doors, cabinets, hardware, leftover drywall, excess tile, bathtubs, sinks, windows and more can be saved from the landfill and donated. Plus, you get a tax deduction for your charitable donation. You can also shop at the store and save money if you're doing your own home renovation projects. To see what it does and doesn't accept and learn where to give, visit re-store.com

3/26/14

If your houseplants or outdoor plants have an infestation of destructive insects, ditch the chemical insecticides and reach for red pepper flakes instead. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and add several tablespoons of the spicy flakes. Allow the mixture to sit overnight. Spray the leaves of the plant infected with insects, then wait a few days to see if the infestation cures itself. Insects are not attracted to spicy flavors, so this spray mixture will naturally repel them.

3/25/14

When eating out, think about going vegetarian for one or two meals a week for your personal health and the health of the planet. Eating a plant-based diet is environmentally friendly because the grains, chemicals and fuel costs to transport livestock, and efforts to treat wastewater from farms, accounts for nearly 50 percent of the energy used to make food in the United States. Farm crops and other plant-based foods use significantly less energy and can still deliver a complete meal full of nutrients and protein. With so many delicious meat-free meals at restaurants, you won't sacrifice taste -- or the planet.