5 Ways to Connect Your Home to the Outdoors

For many of us, moms use-it-up, make-it-last, wear-it-out mantra was our introduction to thriftiness”a traditional value that has largely been kicked to the curb due to a more materialistic lifestyle. But the truth is, most of our common throwaway items have not yet reached their full potential. Here are a few smart re-uses that will…

Cutting down on energy use is great for the environment. It can also save you big bucks. Alternative energy proponent IGS Energy suggests four green and easy ways to do both: Minimize ‘phantom loads.’ The term ‘phantom load’ refers to the energy that an appliance or electronic device consumes when it is not actually turned…

Credit cards can be used to buy almost anything, but using them for small purchases can seem like a waste of time when debit cards or cash are more convenient. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using a credit card for small purchases. The Negatives The ease of use of a credit card…

A good-looking houseplant adds pizzazz to your home. It can also be the next best thing to a live-in housekeeper, says John VanZile, author of Houseplants for A Healthy Home, out in May. Thats because a number of houseplants contain properties that help rid the air around you of various chemicals and parasites. In fact,…

Some days, keeping a smile on your face can be a struggle. Whether youre dealing with a stressful career, medical issues or just feeling weighed down by your daily routine, repeating positive mantras can help shift your mood”if youre open to it. Below are four helpful happy mantras to lift your mood. You can do…

Living in a small space? Try these tips to make more room in your tiny home or studio. – Take advantage of vertical real estate by using wall space to install shelving for books, off-season clothes, and more. – Hanging storage is king in small spaces, and again, can maximize height. Think hooks to hang…