Yes, houseplants need light to survive and thrive inside your home, but think twice about placing your plants near windows. While placing a plant by a window with lots of sunlight seems like a good idea, it also can trick birds into thinking there's a place to perch. As the birds fly to inspect your houseplant, the inevitable will happen: They'll fly right into the window. To prevent collisions, keep plants slightly away from windows; this will help give needed light to plants and keep our feathered friends from hurting themselves.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

We all know that switching from incandescent lightbulbs to energy-saving compact fluorescents can help save money and energy over time. But did you know those CFL bulbs also come in a wide variety of wattages, too? For little-used areas like closets and hallways, don't always opt for the bright-white, highest-wattage bulbs. Instead, choose lower-wattage bulbs that create just enough light. They'll use less energy, last just as long and will save you money in the long run, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Not only can a taxi ride to the airport be expensive, it can be wasteful; the taxis at the terminals often arrive with just one passenger and their suitcase. To save money and cut down on carbon emissions, find someone else near you who is going to the airport and share a ride. Cab Match is an app for your iPhone or Android phone that can help you find potential riders to share a cab with you. It's easy and does everything from searches to setting up a text chat with potential riders.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION