Spring is a great time to go around the yard and prep things that are important to keep birds in tiptop shape. Take a look at your bird feeder: Does it have any old, moldy seed, and is the feeder dirty? Give it a good clean in hot soapy water, allow it to fully dry, and fill it with clean seed. The same goes for a bird bath: The bath should be cleaned every two to three weeks and be constantly refreshed with fresh water. And finally, let your windows go without a squeaky-clean finish –- a little dirt is sometimes the only signal a bird needs to avoid crashing into the glass.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

With many of us doing more online shopping, do you know what is the greenest shipping option, if you have a choice? If your favorite online retailer allows it, choose shipping with the United States Postal Service. The reason is simple: Your mail carrier is already driving by and delivering mail to you and your neighbors, so adding a package or two cuts down on emissions. When you choose a private service like UPS or FedEx, you may be the only delivery in your area, which means a large, gas-guzzling truck will have made a special trip just for you.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you use condiments like mayonnaise, mustard and other spreads when making a sandwich or homemade salad dressing? One of the easiest ways to contaminate all of those jars and bottles is by using the same utensil each time you scoop out a spoonful. Because the shelf life for many condiments can be very long (about three years for mustard), the fastest way to spoil condiments is through cross-contamination. Instead, make a habit of using separate spoons, or at lease rinse the spoon before dipping into another jar.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION