Many people know that the color of the exterior paint of your home can impact indoor cooling costs in hot climates. A dark color absorbs heat, which makes the inside of your home warmer. Lighter colors reflect the sun's heat, so it's easier to keep it cooler inside. But did you know that the choice of paint can have an even bigger impact? New exterior paints use thermally reflective technology that blocks heat radiation over a broad spectrum. Using specialty paint and choosing a light color can reduce cooling costs by around 20 percent.

If you want to avoid using chemical sprays on your dog to ward off fleas, try this all-natural and stylish solution instead. Moisten a cotton bandana with cold water, then add a few drops of essential oils -- lavender or cedar work best -- and massage it into the wet bandana. Tie the bandana around your dog's neck -- the natural scent of the oil will keep fleas at bay. You can also massage a drop of the same essential oil at the base of your dog's tail to give your pooch an extra level of natural protection.

Many of us will go out to sea or row our boats on lakes this summer for some outdoor fun. But even with the very best of intentions, trash and litter can fly from our boats and end up in the water. When you do hit the water, be sure to stow all your trash and fishing supplies securely on the boat. Designate one trash bag for refuse, and tie it to a secure fixture on the boat; make it the spot for all trash. When it's not in use, pull the drawstring to create a tight closure, and reopen it only to deposit trash. When you dock, open the bag to sort recyclables, and dispose of the trash properly.