Friday, February 14, 2014
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Homemade Snickers Bars
To much work for me. LOL
http://www.bestyummyrecipes.com/homemade-snickers-bars-recipe/
http://www.bestyummyrecipes.com/homemade-snickers-bars-recipe/
Menu of the Purity Luncheon Bar in the R. Stirrett Co. Store in Sarnia, ON c1938
I love looking at old menus and reflecting at the prices.
Monday, February 10, 2014
Recycled crafts and other ideas
Crocheting with Plarn
("Yarn" from Plastic Bags!)
Looks very neat but I don’t have the patience for this.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/plarn.html
Crocheted and Knit Dishcloths and Washcloths to Help Kick Your Paper Towel Habit
http://inhabitat.com/diy-crocheted-and-knit-dishcloths-and-washcloths-to-help-kick-your-paper-towel-habit/
Recycling Ideas for Furniture, Books, and Other Unwanted Household Items
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/recycling-ideas.html
("Yarn" from Plastic Bags!)
Looks very neat but I don’t have the patience for this.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/plarn.html
Crocheted and Knit Dishcloths and Washcloths to Help Kick Your Paper Towel Habit
http://inhabitat.com/diy-crocheted-and-knit-dishcloths-and-washcloths-to-help-kick-your-paper-towel-habit/
Recycling Ideas for Furniture, Books, and Other Unwanted Household Items
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/recycling-ideas.html
Steps to help the environment
Top 16 Ways To Go Green
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/ways-to-go-green.html
How to Reduce Your Energy Consumption
Tips for conserving electricity and cutting your energy costs
http://www.nrdc.org/air/energy/genergy.asp
10 Steps to Help the Environment
http://www.skininc.com/spabusiness/sustainability/38700997.html?page=1
I like the last one.
21 Practical Ways to Help the Environment
Does anyone use a reel or electric mower?
http://www.practicalenvironmentalist.com/21-practical-ways-to-help-the-environment
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/ways-to-go-green.html
How to Reduce Your Energy Consumption
Tips for conserving electricity and cutting your energy costs
http://www.nrdc.org/air/energy/genergy.asp
10 Steps to Help the Environment
http://www.skininc.com/spabusiness/sustainability/38700997.html?page=1
I like the last one.
21 Practical Ways to Help the Environment
Does anyone use a reel or electric mower?
http://www.practicalenvironmentalist.com/21-practical-ways-to-help-the-environment
Junk Mail
A Use For Junk Mail
So, until these opt-out forms start working, what can you do with all that junk mail? Here are a few ideas to create a use for junk mail:
• Recycle it: With well over half of all junk mail not being recycled, be sure to place yours in your paper bin to at least save a few resources.
• Compost it: Most paper and ink use non-toxic materials and soy-based inks. Avoid the glossy stuff and any envelopes with plastic. Put it through the shredder first and then use it as "brown" matter in your home composting bin.
• Mulch it: Shred non-glossy paper and use as a mulch around plants, shrubs and trees.
• Package Material: Crumble it up or even shred it and use it for a sustainable packing material.
• Animal Bedding: Use it on the bottom of your bird cage or as bedding for your hamster.
• Crafts: Let your kids use them for collages, paper beads, paper mache and other crafts.
Get creative and I'm sure you will find a use for junk mail not listed above.
I have posted something similar to this before.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/stop-receiving-junk-mail.html
How To Stop Receiving Junk Mail
There are several ways to stop receiving junk mail. Some cost money, others cost nothing more than a few minutes of time.
DMA Choice
This should be your first stop. Direct Marketing Association represents nearly 3,600 companies, each required to respect your preferences. Through their opt-out service, you'll be removed from many or even most of the mailers you now you receive, while still receiving the ones you want. It can be done online for free or through the mail for $1. Visit DMAchoice.org for details on how to stop receiving junk mail from their members. You can even do the same for your email.
Credit Bureaus
Pre-approved offers from credit card companies probably account for the largest amount of junk mail in most households. Although it's tempting to cost them money by using their enclosed envelopes to request your removal, it sadly doesn't work (and it may be illegal). Instead, here's how you can stop receiving junk mail credit card offers:
• Visit OptOutPrescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPTOUT (567-8688) to be removed from the three major credit reporting agencies, Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. (This phone number will also remove you from various other mailing lists.)
The electronic opt-out is for five years only. If you prefer a permanent opt-out, contact them via phone or mail below and request they do not share your personal information for promotional purposes:
• Experian
o By phone: (402) 458 5247
o Mail: 901 West Bond
Lincoln, NE 68521
Attn: Consumer Services Department
• TransUnion
o By phone: (888) 567-8688
o Mail: Name Removal Option
P.O. Box 505
Woodlyn, PA 19094
• Equifax, Inc.
o By phone: ( 888) 567-8688
o Mail: Options
P.O. Box 740123
Atlanta, GA 30374-0123
Catalogs
Epsilon's Abacus Cooperative is a marketing tool for catalog and retail companies. Members contribute information about their customers in exchange for information about other customers that may be interested in their products. According to their website, you may opt out in the following ways:
• By Email: By sending an email to abacusoptout@epsilon.com and including the following information:
o full name (including middle initial)
o current address
o previous address if you have been at your current address fewer than six months
• Or Phone: By phoning 1-888-780-3869 and leaving the above information.
Please note that by opting out of the Abacus Cooperative database, you may stop receiving catalogs that you enjoy receiving.
Stop Other Junk Mail
The above options will remove you from the majority of mailing lists.
For all others, simply contact the company. Find a phone number and give them a courtesy call. No need to be rude; just simply request to be removed from future mailings. Business prefer not to waste money and should appreciate your notifying them. This make take a minute or two of your time but will save you time in the future, as well as the resources wasted in unwanted mail.
So, until these opt-out forms start working, what can you do with all that junk mail? Here are a few ideas to create a use for junk mail:
• Recycle it: With well over half of all junk mail not being recycled, be sure to place yours in your paper bin to at least save a few resources.
• Compost it: Most paper and ink use non-toxic materials and soy-based inks. Avoid the glossy stuff and any envelopes with plastic. Put it through the shredder first and then use it as "brown" matter in your home composting bin.
• Mulch it: Shred non-glossy paper and use as a mulch around plants, shrubs and trees.
• Package Material: Crumble it up or even shred it and use it for a sustainable packing material.
• Animal Bedding: Use it on the bottom of your bird cage or as bedding for your hamster.
• Crafts: Let your kids use them for collages, paper beads, paper mache and other crafts.
Get creative and I'm sure you will find a use for junk mail not listed above.
I have posted something similar to this before.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/stop-receiving-junk-mail.html
How To Stop Receiving Junk Mail
There are several ways to stop receiving junk mail. Some cost money, others cost nothing more than a few minutes of time.
DMA Choice
This should be your first stop. Direct Marketing Association represents nearly 3,600 companies, each required to respect your preferences. Through their opt-out service, you'll be removed from many or even most of the mailers you now you receive, while still receiving the ones you want. It can be done online for free or through the mail for $1. Visit DMAchoice.org for details on how to stop receiving junk mail from their members. You can even do the same for your email.
Credit Bureaus
Pre-approved offers from credit card companies probably account for the largest amount of junk mail in most households. Although it's tempting to cost them money by using their enclosed envelopes to request your removal, it sadly doesn't work (and it may be illegal). Instead, here's how you can stop receiving junk mail credit card offers:
• Visit OptOutPrescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPTOUT (567-8688) to be removed from the three major credit reporting agencies, Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. (This phone number will also remove you from various other mailing lists.)
The electronic opt-out is for five years only. If you prefer a permanent opt-out, contact them via phone or mail below and request they do not share your personal information for promotional purposes:
• Experian
o By phone: (402) 458 5247
o Mail: 901 West Bond
Lincoln, NE 68521
Attn: Consumer Services Department
• TransUnion
o By phone: (888) 567-8688
o Mail: Name Removal Option
P.O. Box 505
Woodlyn, PA 19094
• Equifax, Inc.
o By phone: ( 888) 567-8688
o Mail: Options
P.O. Box 740123
Atlanta, GA 30374-0123
Catalogs
Epsilon's Abacus Cooperative is a marketing tool for catalog and retail companies. Members contribute information about their customers in exchange for information about other customers that may be interested in their products. According to their website, you may opt out in the following ways:
• By Email: By sending an email to abacusoptout@epsilon.com and including the following information:
o full name (including middle initial)
o current address
o previous address if you have been at your current address fewer than six months
• Or Phone: By phoning 1-888-780-3869 and leaving the above information.
Please note that by opting out of the Abacus Cooperative database, you may stop receiving catalogs that you enjoy receiving.
Stop Other Junk Mail
The above options will remove you from the majority of mailing lists.
For all others, simply contact the company. Find a phone number and give them a courtesy call. No need to be rude; just simply request to be removed from future mailings. Business prefer not to waste money and should appreciate your notifying them. This make take a minute or two of your time but will save you time in the future, as well as the resources wasted in unwanted mail.
110+ Ways To Save Water
110+ Ways To Save Water
Let’s see how many do you already do?
I already do about 35 of these. I plan on starting to do more.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/water-conservation.html
Let’s see how many do you already do?
I already do about 35 of these. I plan on starting to do more.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/water-conservation.html
Recycling facts
* Americans use an average of 741 pounds of paper, per person, each year.
* Most of the world's paper supply comes from timber logged in regions with ecologically valuable, biologically diverse habitat.
* The virgin timber-based pulp and paper industry is the third greatest industrial emitter of global warming pollution. Its carbon dioxide emissions are projected to double by 2020.
http://www.nrdc.org/cities/living/paper/default.asp
Americans buy over 29 million bottles of water every year. Making all those bottles uses 17 million barrels of crude oil annually, which would be enough fuel to keep 1 million cars on the road for one year. Only 13% of those bottles are recycled. Plastic bottles take centuries to decompose—and if they are burned, they release toxic byproducts such as chlorine gas and ash containing heavy metals.
What Are The Reasons Why I Should Recycle?
Reducing, reusing and recycling is important for many reasons.
For starters, reusable items save us money. Constantly replacing disposbale items costs money, not because of buying new things, but because many of those things are pricey to begin with.
Eliminating waste usually leads to an elimination of harmful chemicals as well, such off-gasing and unsafe resources. This is because disposable items are newly manufactured, meaning constant off-gasing; many are made from plastics, which contain harmful chemicals such as BPA; and others are processed in a way that includes dangerous chemicals, such as the bleaching of paper napkins or plates.
Then there are the environmental issues behind constant waste:
• This first is manufacturing. Constantly reproducing new products means excessive use of water, oil and other chemicals. This also often leads to pollution around manufacturing plants, which affects the environment, as well as human health in the area.
• The second is the constant shipping of new products. This amounts of hundreds of thousands of pounds of carbon dioxide in the environment. This affects plants, animals and people in the environment.
• The third would be a loss of resources. Most products that are disposable still use an abundance of resources...resources that may be limited in the future, or even now, such as oil and water.
• Fourth, is litter. Most litter and dumped waste found on the road or in wild areas is from disposable products.
• And last, is our long-term waste management. Designating landfills is a temporary solution to a permanent problem. And because things put in a landfill don't decompose, those items will never return back to a reusable form by man or Nature.
And a highly disposable culture simply isn't sustainable - meaning we can't sustain this level of use and waste for the long-term.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/reduce-reuse-recycle.html
* Most of the world's paper supply comes from timber logged in regions with ecologically valuable, biologically diverse habitat.
* The virgin timber-based pulp and paper industry is the third greatest industrial emitter of global warming pollution. Its carbon dioxide emissions are projected to double by 2020.
http://www.nrdc.org/cities/living/paper/default.asp
Americans buy over 29 million bottles of water every year. Making all those bottles uses 17 million barrels of crude oil annually, which would be enough fuel to keep 1 million cars on the road for one year. Only 13% of those bottles are recycled. Plastic bottles take centuries to decompose—and if they are burned, they release toxic byproducts such as chlorine gas and ash containing heavy metals.
What Are The Reasons Why I Should Recycle?
Reducing, reusing and recycling is important for many reasons.
For starters, reusable items save us money. Constantly replacing disposbale items costs money, not because of buying new things, but because many of those things are pricey to begin with.
Eliminating waste usually leads to an elimination of harmful chemicals as well, such off-gasing and unsafe resources. This is because disposable items are newly manufactured, meaning constant off-gasing; many are made from plastics, which contain harmful chemicals such as BPA; and others are processed in a way that includes dangerous chemicals, such as the bleaching of paper napkins or plates.
Then there are the environmental issues behind constant waste:
• This first is manufacturing. Constantly reproducing new products means excessive use of water, oil and other chemicals. This also often leads to pollution around manufacturing plants, which affects the environment, as well as human health in the area.
• The second is the constant shipping of new products. This amounts of hundreds of thousands of pounds of carbon dioxide in the environment. This affects plants, animals and people in the environment.
• The third would be a loss of resources. Most products that are disposable still use an abundance of resources...resources that may be limited in the future, or even now, such as oil and water.
• Fourth, is litter. Most litter and dumped waste found on the road or in wild areas is from disposable products.
• And last, is our long-term waste management. Designating landfills is a temporary solution to a permanent problem. And because things put in a landfill don't decompose, those items will never return back to a reusable form by man or Nature.
And a highly disposable culture simply isn't sustainable - meaning we can't sustain this level of use and waste for the long-term.
http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/reduce-reuse-recycle.html
Diapers
Since we are going to do a combo of cloth and disposable diapers I thought I would start with cloth diapers.
Cloth Diapering 101
http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/06/cloth-diapering-101.html#
Cloth Diapers
http://moneysavingmom.com/2013/03/52-different-ways-to-save-at-least-100-per-year-use-cloth-diapers-week-11.html
Cloth Wipe Challenge
Sometimes I am to modern American I guess. I haven’t been able to give up toilet paper or facial tissue.
http://www.thecrunchychicken.com/2009/08/cloth-wipe-challenge-2009.html
Pros and Cons of Cloth Diapers
http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/15021/1/Pros-and-Cons-of-Cloth-Diapers.html
Cloth Diapering 101
http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/06/cloth-diapering-101.html#
Cloth Diapers
http://moneysavingmom.com/2013/03/52-different-ways-to-save-at-least-100-per-year-use-cloth-diapers-week-11.html
Cloth Wipe Challenge
Sometimes I am to modern American I guess. I haven’t been able to give up toilet paper or facial tissue.
http://www.thecrunchychicken.com/2009/08/cloth-wipe-challenge-2009.html
Pros and Cons of Cloth Diapers
http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/15021/1/Pros-and-Cons-of-Cloth-Diapers.html
Saving the environment while being frugal
About 5 years ago we switch to cloth napkins and cloth towels to dry our hands after washing them instead of paper towels.
I just didn't see the need to pay for something so disposable contributing to landfills and deleting my wallet.
My husband will still use paper towels for everything else. If I don't find the select a size paper towels for a good price I take a knife and cut the roll in half.
I am guilty about using paper towels for some things too but I concentrate a more reuse logic than he.
We will be using a combo of disposable diapers and cloth diapers for 3 reasons 1) Money and 2) Environment and 3) IMO cloth will be better for the baby.
I thought I would post some things today about conserving the environment in small ways.
I just didn't see the need to pay for something so disposable contributing to landfills and deleting my wallet.
My husband will still use paper towels for everything else. If I don't find the select a size paper towels for a good price I take a knife and cut the roll in half.
I am guilty about using paper towels for some things too but I concentrate a more reuse logic than he.
We will be using a combo of disposable diapers and cloth diapers for 3 reasons 1) Money and 2) Environment and 3) IMO cloth will be better for the baby.
I thought I would post some things today about conserving the environment in small ways.
Save on dining out with these 8 tips
I love Clark Howard.
Mostly same ole suggestions but still worth a review.
Mostly same ole suggestions but still worth a review.
Save on dining out with these 8 tips
Eating out can become a very costly expense and a big budget buster. However, we all like to live a little and eat a little with good company. It's a fact of life.
I'm sure Suze Orman would like us to take the money we spend on dining out and put it towards our retirement fund, which of course would be the smarter choice, but sometimes you want to enjoy the "now" versus "later."
What if I told you could still enjoy the best of both worlds? Yes, you can enjoy the "now" and still save for "later." If you want to go out this evening with your girlfriends or have a quick lunch-date with your hubby, I've got 8 ways you can save while dining out:
I'm sure Suze Orman would like us to take the money we spend on dining out and put it towards our retirement fund, which of course would be the smarter choice, but sometimes you want to enjoy the "now" versus "later."
What if I told you could still enjoy the best of both worlds? Yes, you can enjoy the "now" and still save for "later." If you want to go out this evening with your girlfriends or have a quick lunch-date with your hubby, I've got 8 ways you can save while dining out:
1. Skip the drinks. I'm sure you've heard it before, but I will tell you again. Not only are drinks calorie-filled and probably not that healthy for you (unless your are drinking a green juice), it's a money sucker. It quickly adds up and when it's time to pay the bill, you wonder why your bill is $15 more than it should be.
2. Share. I see this happening more often than not. Many restaurants serve large portion sizes and it almost requires you to take home a doggie bag. Instead, choose an entree and a small salad to share. If you tell your server that you're going to share, they split the order into two dishes. Now you've cut your bill in half.
3. Lunch it. Dining out at dinner is twice as expensive as eating out at lunch for the same menu item. If you can, try to lunch it and in the process save 50% off.
4. Happy Hour. I used to think that Happy Hour meant that it only applied to drinks. Many establishments offer Happy Hour where everything on their menu or a special menu is 50% off or more. You may have to go in before 6pm, but that doesn't mean you have to leave at 6pm. Just order everything before 6pm and enjoy.
5. Free munchies. Free housemade bread, garlic bites, edamame, salsa and chips, they all fit the bill. Most of the time you go out for the ambiance and to be with your friends and family. If you're not that hungry, you can munch on these house freebies and order something small.
6. Kids eat free. Of course, this applies if you have children. Find out what establishments offer free kids meals with the purchase of an adult entree. If you have a family of 4, you'll only have to pay for you and your spouse's meal. Check for days and times.
7. Rewards programs. Some chain or larger establishments offer rewards programs. Sign up for them because it's free and you may get a coupon for a free appetizer or entree and most times, a free meal for your birthday.
8. Check coupon sites. Not everyone is used to checking coupon sites for meal deals, but you can save a huge chunk off your bill. I usually go to Valpak.com or SmartSource.com to see if there are any coupons for my favorite spots.
With these 8 different ways you can save while dining out, you can have your cake and eat it too!
3. Lunch it. Dining out at dinner is twice as expensive as eating out at lunch for the same menu item. If you can, try to lunch it and in the process save 50% off.
4. Happy Hour. I used to think that Happy Hour meant that it only applied to drinks. Many establishments offer Happy Hour where everything on their menu or a special menu is 50% off or more. You may have to go in before 6pm, but that doesn't mean you have to leave at 6pm. Just order everything before 6pm and enjoy.
5. Free munchies. Free housemade bread, garlic bites, edamame, salsa and chips, they all fit the bill. Most of the time you go out for the ambiance and to be with your friends and family. If you're not that hungry, you can munch on these house freebies and order something small.
6. Kids eat free. Of course, this applies if you have children. Find out what establishments offer free kids meals with the purchase of an adult entree. If you have a family of 4, you'll only have to pay for you and your spouse's meal. Check for days and times.
7. Rewards programs. Some chain or larger establishments offer rewards programs. Sign up for them because it's free and you may get a coupon for a free appetizer or entree and most times, a free meal for your birthday.
8. Check coupon sites. Not everyone is used to checking coupon sites for meal deals, but you can save a huge chunk off your bill. I usually go to Valpak.com or SmartSource.com to see if there are any coupons for my favorite spots.
With these 8 different ways you can save while dining out, you can have your cake and eat it too!
Susan Yoo-Lee is the editor of Savings.com personal finance blog and founder of Mommas in the House blog. When she’s not busy with her chef husband and 2 daughters, she’s most likely coming up with the next best juicing recipe.
http://www.clarkhoward.com/news/clark-howard/shopping-retail/8-ways-save-while-dining-out/nZdQK/
Sack Dresses
Depression era -when they realized women were using their sacks to make clothes for their children, the mills started using flowered fabric for their sacks. The label was designed to wash out.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Flower Power Fundraising event
I have updated my profile and cover pictures to reflect the Flower Power Fundraising event for Pointer Rescue, Organization.
I hope everyone can go check out the event, join the event, share, or whatever you can to help make this a great fundraiser for this small rescue.
http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/campaign?campaign_id=17620
Spring is coming and PRO is having a spring fundraiser through Flower Power/Gardens Alive! Get some great looking flowers and help PRO raise money to help English Pointers in need! The campaign is live and will run thru March 15, 2014.
Please plan to stop by our fundraising website and get your flowers!
I hope everyone can go check out the event, join the event, share, or whatever you can to help make this a great fundraiser for this small rescue.
http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/campaign?campaign_id=17620
Spring is coming and PRO is having a spring fundraiser through Flower Power/Gardens Alive! Get some great looking flowers and help PRO raise money to help English Pointers in need! The campaign is live and will run thru March 15, 2014.
Please plan to stop by our fundraising website and get your flowers!
White Chocolate Cookie Squares
I will be making this next week.
http://www.mrshappyhomemaker.com/2014/02/white-chocolate-cookie-squares/
http://www.mrshappyhomemaker.com/2014/02/white-chocolate-cookie-squares/
Ingredients
- 2 sticks of unsalted butter (1 cup), softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups of all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 bag of white chocolate chips, about 12 ounces (or even more if you're feeling adventurous!)
- sprinkles (optional)
- food coloring of your choice (I used red) (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter & brown sugar. Mix in 1 egg. Add in the flour, salt, & vanilla extract; mix until just combined. If you're using food coloring (I used red) now would be the time to mix that in. Add in enough food coloring to reach your desired color.
Spread your cookie dough on a large baking sheet until the thickness reaches 1/4-1/2 of an inch.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges of your dough begin to brown slightly.
Remove from the oven, & dump your white chocolate chips on top. Place it back into the oven for 60-90 seconds to melt the chocolate chips slightly Be careful to not leave it in there for too long as you don't want your chocolate to seize up. Using a spatula, spread the melty white chocolate all over your cookie until covered.
Sprinkle on your sprinkles (if using). Let the cookie cool for a few minutes so that the chocolate sets. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, slice the cookie into cookie squares.
Friday, February 7, 2014
Cooking with Lentils
Does anyone cook with Lentils instead of ground beef?
What are your pros and cons?
I am thinking of using a half and half mixture so my husband doesn't notice. I generally use half the ground beef for a recipe to begin with.
http://be-it-ever-so-humble.blogspot.com/2012/10/how-to-substitute-lentils-for-ground.html
What are your pros and cons?
I am thinking of using a half and half mixture so my husband doesn't notice. I generally use half the ground beef for a recipe to begin with.
http://be-it-ever-so-humble.blogspot.com/2012/10/how-to-substitute-lentils-for-ground.html
Juice Plus+ Named a Top Workplace in Memphis
This is a product I sell. Very cool!
Juice Plus+ Named a Top Workplace in Memphis
We are pleased to announce that The Juice Plus+ Company has been selected as one of the Top 50 Workplaces in the Memphis metropolitan area by The Commercial Appeal.
Juice Plus+ was honored alongside other internationally recognized companies headquartered in the Memphis area such as FedEx.
"What makes this a special honor is that it was based solely on anonymous survey feedback from our employees," said Juice Plus+ COO Paulo L. Teixeira.
"We work very hard to create a happy and healthy work environment," Paulo continued. "We're proud that our 200+ employees here in the Memphis area appreciate our efforts. We certainly appreciate theirs."
The employee survey behind the selection was conducted by WorkplaceDynamics, LLP, a leading research firm on organizational health and employee engagement. The Commercial Appeal is Memphis' local daily newspaper.
http://barbara.juiceplus.com/content/JuicePlus/en/what-is-juice-plus.html.html
Juice Plus+ Named a Top Workplace in Memphis
We are pleased to announce that The Juice Plus+ Company has been selected as one of the Top 50 Workplaces in the Memphis metropolitan area by The Commercial Appeal.
Juice Plus+ was honored alongside other internationally recognized companies headquartered in the Memphis area such as FedEx.
"What makes this a special honor is that it was based solely on anonymous survey feedback from our employees," said Juice Plus+ COO Paulo L. Teixeira.
"We work very hard to create a happy and healthy work environment," Paulo continued. "We're proud that our 200+ employees here in the Memphis area appreciate our efforts. We certainly appreciate theirs."
The employee survey behind the selection was conducted by WorkplaceDynamics, LLP, a leading research firm on organizational health and employee engagement. The Commercial Appeal is Memphis' local daily newspaper.
http://barbara.juiceplus.com/content/JuicePlus/en/what-is-juice-plus.html.html
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Toilet Tissue Through the Ages
Toilet Tissue Through the Ages
Taken from the Amazon Angel Soft TP page
Ancient Rome- All public toilets had a stick with a sponge attached to its end that soaked in a bucket of brine so citizens could have a tool to freshen up with.
China Around 1391 AD- The Bureau of Imperial Supplies began producing 720,000 sheets of toilet paper per year. Each sheet measured two feet by three feet!
Viking Age- During this time, people would freshen up with discarded sheep's wool.
Late Middle Ages- The French invented the bidet for proper cleansing.
1700s- Colonial Americans used corncobs to cleanse with. However, once newspapers became commonplace, people used the newspaper after they had finished reading it.
1880- The first actual paper produced for freshening up with was in England. The individual squares were sold in boxes, not rolls.
1902- Northern Paper Mills introduces Northern Tissue, made at the Green Bay East Mill in Wisconsin.
1920s- Northern Mills introduced toilet tissue on a roll.
1973- The Great Toilet Paper Shortage occurred in 1973, after a popular evening talk show host made a joke that there was an acute shortage of toilet paper in the United States. The next morning, 20 million viewers bought up all the toilet paper they could find. By noon that day, most stores were out of toilet paper.
1987- Angel Soft is first launched in the United States.
Taken from the Amazon Angel Soft TP page
Ancient Rome- All public toilets had a stick with a sponge attached to its end that soaked in a bucket of brine so citizens could have a tool to freshen up with.
China Around 1391 AD- The Bureau of Imperial Supplies began producing 720,000 sheets of toilet paper per year. Each sheet measured two feet by three feet!
Viking Age- During this time, people would freshen up with discarded sheep's wool.
Late Middle Ages- The French invented the bidet for proper cleansing.
1700s- Colonial Americans used corncobs to cleanse with. However, once newspapers became commonplace, people used the newspaper after they had finished reading it.
1880- The first actual paper produced for freshening up with was in England. The individual squares were sold in boxes, not rolls.
1902- Northern Paper Mills introduces Northern Tissue, made at the Green Bay East Mill in Wisconsin.
1920s- Northern Mills introduced toilet tissue on a roll.
1973- The Great Toilet Paper Shortage occurred in 1973, after a popular evening talk show host made a joke that there was an acute shortage of toilet paper in the United States. The next morning, 20 million viewers bought up all the toilet paper they could find. By noon that day, most stores were out of toilet paper.
1987- Angel Soft is first launched in the United States.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
PRO is having our 3rd Flower Power Fundraiser.
PRO is having our 3rd Flower Power Fundraiser.
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Monday, February 3, 2014
31 Surprising Uses for Baking Soda
31 Surprising Uses for Baking Soda
I love using Baking Soda.
Something I have started doing is adding a teaspoon of baking soda to the first dispenser in my dishwasher instead of filling both dispensers with detergent.
http://www.allyou.com/budget-home/live-green-save/baking-soda
I love using Baking Soda.
Something I have started doing is adding a teaspoon of baking soda to the first dispenser in my dishwasher instead of filling both dispensers with detergent.
http://www.allyou.com/budget-home/live-green-save/baking-soda
Baking soda can do a lot more than just sit in the back of the fridge. Try these easy tips and put baking soda to work in every room of your house!
- Skip produce washes—just put some baking soda on a damp sponge, scrub and rinse.
- Soak hair brushes and combs in a mixture of 1 teaspoon baking soda and a small amount of warm water. Rinse and dry.
- Before you store your patio furniture for the season, scatter baking soda under chair cushions.
- Keep your grill clean all summer long by putting some baking soda on a damp brush, scrubbing the grate, then rinsing.
- Freshen rugs by sprinkling baking soda on carpet, wait at least 15 minutes (preferably let sit overnight), then vacuum up.
- Add 1 cup of baking soda to your next load of laundry(along with your regular liquid detergent) to get clothes cleaner and brighter.
- Remove baked-on residue by shaking a generous amount of baking soda on pots and pans. Then add hot water and dish detergent, let sit for 15 minutes and wash as usual.
- Deodorize a funky-smelling hamper. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the hamper (or over dirty clothes) to keep items fresher until laundry day.
- To brighten a dull floor finish, dissolve ½ cup baking soda in a bucket of warm water. Mop and rinse for a shiny floor.
- Make your own bathroom scrub by mixing ¼ cup baking soda with 1 tablespoon liquid detergent. Add vinegar to give it a thick, creamy texture.
- To put out a grease fire, scatter baking soda over it by the handful to extinguish flames.
- Clean the dishwasher and coffeemaker by running an empty cycle with baking soda.
- Add ½ cup baking soda to your bath for an at-home spa treatment.
- To shine tarnished silver, combine three parts baking soda with one part water. Rub onto silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Sprinkle baking soda in the kitty box, then add litter on top to keep smells to a minimum. Or make a DIY litter, mixing a small box of baking soda with 3 inches of sandy clay.
- Use baking soda to brush your pets’ teeth.
- For instant relief from bug bites, sunburn and poison ivy, mix baking soda with a little water and apply it directly to the sore.
- Pour in 1 cup baking soda followed by 1 cup hot vinegar to quickly unclog the kitchen drain.
- Fight dandruff by tabling the shampoo for a few weeks and massaging your wet scalp with a handful of baking soda instead.
- Gargle with baking soda, or use it as mouthwash.
- Soak toothbrushes in a mixture of ¼ cup baking soda and ¼ cup water; let brushes stand overnight for a thorough cleaning.
- Make a fluffier omelet by adding ½ teaspoon baking soda for every three eggs.
- Use a pinch in a gallon of freshly-brewed iced tea, to take out the bitterness and prevent cloudiness.
- Scatter baking soda on icy sidewalks―it’s not as corrosive as salt.
- Discourage weeds by sprinkling baking soda into the cracks on your driveway and walkways.
- Surround Fido’s food bowls with baking soda to keep pests away.
- Mix a little baking soda into your conditioner and lather on your hair to keep it healthy and resistant to split ends.
- Have heartburn? Create an antacid by mixing ½ teaspoon of baking soda with ½ cup of water.
- To clean a toilet, add ¼ cup baking soda to the bowl, swirl, then scrub.
- Exfoliate your skin with a paste of 3 parts baking soda to one part water. Apply gently with your fingertips in a circular motion, then rinse
- To deodorize a drain, pour about ½ cup baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup vinegar. After 15 minutes, pour in boiling water to clean residue.NOTE: Use this method only if your pipes are metal. And never mix with other cleaning solutions. Don't try this if you've recently used a commercial drain product.
Saturday, February 1, 2014
DIY Bathroom Wipes opps
I have to share a D'uh moment.
The other day I cut our paper towels in half because my husband doesn't understand how to ration them.
I decided to make my own bathroom wipes with the other half. I took the cardboard center out. I had an old cylinder size container that other wipes had come in. I put the paper towels in there.
Here is where I should have thought it thru.
I poured enough vinegar and hot water in there to fill the canister half way.
The next day I went to use them and the paper towels had absorbed all of the liquid and I could hardly get a wipe out.
I managed to squeeze some of the liquid out but they are still pretty soaked.
The other day I cut our paper towels in half because my husband doesn't understand how to ration them.
I decided to make my own bathroom wipes with the other half. I took the cardboard center out. I had an old cylinder size container that other wipes had come in. I put the paper towels in there.
Here is where I should have thought it thru.
I poured enough vinegar and hot water in there to fill the canister half way.
The next day I went to use them and the paper towels had absorbed all of the liquid and I could hardly get a wipe out.
I managed to squeeze some of the liquid out but they are still pretty soaked.
Friday, January 31, 2014
40 Eco-Frugal Ways to Repurpose Household Items
http://www.freeshipping.org/blog/40-eco-friendly-ways-to-repurpose-household-items/
© Copyright:www.freeshipping.org
Combine tight budgets and ecological mindedness and you've got the new Eco-Frugal Movement: Good for your pocketbook and good for the planet. Repurposing -- a popular part of this movement -- was actually a way of life for those raised during the Great Depression and World War II. It was simply second nature for the Greatest Generation to"repurpose" flour sacks as clothes and milk bottles as flower vases. Now it's our turn to make this old idea new again. We've found 50 new and creative ways to reinvent stuff typically found in trashcans across the U.S.
1. Baby Food Jars Dad stored screws, nails, anchors, etc. in empty baby-food jars long after his babies were off to college. The smaller jars also make great spice storage containers for those who buy in bulk.
2. Brown Paper Bags Tightly twisted bags make good fire starters with more staying power than newspaper. Or slit, poke holes throughout and use to line your flower garden before adding mulch or potting soil to reduce weeds and serve as a natural mulch.
3. Butter/Margarine Wrappers Empty wrappers allow you to grease baking pans without greasing up your fingers. Fold the wrappers up and store in the freezer for future use.
4. CDs Use unwanted or promotional CDs as a glittering scarecrow in fruit trees and on corn stalks. Glue two discs together with shiny sides face out and string together through the middle hole as you would a wind chime. Hang and the shimmering reflections will scare off thieving birds and raccoons.
5. Cereal Boxes Cover with brown paper to repurpose as shipping boxes. Or make desk organizers for your kids by cutting boxes with a utility knife at the desired angle and height. Wrap with decorative contact paper or leave as is for a funky look. Alternately, use to create sketchbooks for your kids. Cut off the top and bottom, punch holes with a 3-hole punch, add scrap paper (3-hole-punchedmis-fed printer paper) and tie together with a ribbon or string.
6. Cereal Box Liners Use instead of wax paper. Layer between meat patties before freezing. Cover food to maintain moisture while microwaving. Slit and use to roll out dough.
7. Citrus Peels Make homemade citrus cleaners; make candy citrus peels; grate as zest in recipes; dry and toss into fires for a fresh smell.
8. Coffee Cans Pack cookies or other baked goods for mailing. Use as a cheap and quick "dog pooper scooper" or to store food scraps in the kitchen before adding to an outdoor compost pile. Store your child's collection of crayons, magic markers and pencils.
9. Coffee grounds A great natural plant fertilizers. One teaspoon of coffee grounds mixed with your favorite moisturizer is an inexpensive and effective cellulite treatment.
10. Cooking or Bacon Grease Mix bird seed into grease, freeze and hang outdoors to feed the birds and (if you like) squirrels.
11. Detergent and Soap Boxes Eileen Hull came up with a great way to turn empty boxes into gift "bags." The results are more durable and original than store-bought gift bags.
12. Diaper Boxes The handles on diaper boxes are a real asset when you have to move stored items frequently. Cover with wrapping paper or contact paper and use in closets or other small places.
13. Dry Cleaning Bags Tie a knot in the end and use to line a tall trash can. Reduce wrinkles by using to pack suits, dresses and formal clothing. Prevent knits from snagging in the closet.
14. Dryer Lint Dryer lint is quite flammable, so stuff an empty toilet-paper roll and use as a fire starter. (Wonder if this works with belly button lint?)
15. Dryer Sheets Remove foods stuck hard on your pots and pans by filling the pan with water and drop the sheet inside. Let soak for about an hour and wash as usual. Quilters can use old dryer sheets to keep block-edges straight and all the same size. Dust furniture; put them on a hanger in the closet to add freshness to the closet; or hang on the shower curtain to add a fresh scent to bathrooms.
16. Egg Cartons Organize small toys, golf balls or tiny craft materials (i.e., sequins, buttons, beads, etc.). Start seeds indoors before it's warm enough to transplant outdoors. Cardboard containers make good fire starters. Either Styrofoam or cardboard egg cartons can be used to store golf balls. Make bird feeders by removing the lid, threading string through holes in each corner of the tray, filling the cups halfway with birdseed, and hanging in a tree.
17. Envelopes Use junk-mail envelopes for your own mail by scratching out the old address and adding your own. The blank backs are a handy size for grocery or to-do lists.
18. Facial Tissue Boxes Repurpose as a plastic bag dispenser. Toddlers can use as doll beds and garages for miniature small cars. Store yeast packets, instant drink mixes, gravy packets and other flat, thin items that get lost in drawers and refrigerators.
19. Food Boxes Cover with brick-patterned contact paper to create giant, lightweight building blocks for infants.
20. Hair Product or Cleaner Spray Bottles Clean thoroughly and refill with homemade cleaners or spray starch. Spray plants with water.
21. Laundry Bottle Caps & Powdered Detergent Scoops Wash thoroughly and use as sandbox, pool and bathtub toys or as pet-food scoopers.
22. Light bulb Put inside socks to serve as a darning egg.
23. Magazines Drop read magazines off at hospitals, oncology offices, art classes or hair salons. Alternately, shred the pages and use in place of tissue paper in gift bags or bubble wrap when shipping or packing. Shred a perfume ad for a subtle fragrance.
24. Packing Foam Peanuts Toss several into the bottom of a large plant pot before adding dirt to aid in drainage. Some shipping companies buy garbage bags of peanuts in good shape as they're expensive to purchase.
25. Paint Containers Clean empty quart containers, spray paint, solder together into a big square, mount it on the wall, and use to sort papers, pens and small computer accessories without wasting precious desk space.
26. Pantyhose Put a cake of soap in the foot when camping and tie the top end to a low-hanging tree branch. Cut into strips as a gentle way to tie plants securely to stakes. Cut across the leg to make rings, roll them up for a stretchy ponytail holder that won't break and damage hair like rubber bands do. Put some human hair clippings into toe of the stocking and place around the garden fence to keep deer away.
27. Paper Towel/Toilet Paper Cardboard Rolls Keep extension cords and Christmas lights from tangling by wrapping around an empty roll before storing. Protect sharp knives. Pet gerbils or hamsters enjoy gnawing on and crawling inside tubes. Double up and stuff bathroom appliance cords inside to keep cupboards and drawers organized.
28. Phone Books Use the pages as window wipes, package filler, fire starters, etc.
29. Plastic Grocery Bags Use as garbage pail liners, paint tray covers, stuffing for various craft projects, protection for hands and household items, or packing materials.
30. Plastic Produce Mesh Bags Wad into a ball and tie to make scrubbers for pots, car windshields or bathtubs.
31. Plastic Milk Jug Turn into a watering can with a few holes punched into the plastic cap. Cut off the top and fill with bird seed. 32. Plastic or Wine Bottles Place a narrow soda or wine bottle in tall boots to keep their shape when not in use. Also helps speed drying of wet boots.
33. PVC Pipe Every garage seems to have some PVC pipe pieces hanging around. Use 4-inch (or wider) pipe around bird-feeder poles as a squirrel andraccoon guard. Animals can't climb the slippery and wide pipe.
34. Socks Wrangle straggling cords behind your entertainment centers and computer desk into a trouser or sock to keep them separate and organized. Cut into strips to gently tie-up plants in the garden. Also useful in place of cotton gloves to clean chandelier crystal drops.
35. Strawberry Baskets Make candy baskets for the holidays by weaving ribbons through the holes and attaching decorations. Makes an interesting bubble machine or playpen for small dolls.
36. Styrofoam Meat Trays Clean thoroughly, wrap in foil and use as serving trays when giving baked treats. Sort small craft items when crafting or use as a paintbrush rest that can be tossed after a project is complete.
37. Tin Cans Paint a bevvy of cans to store pens, pencils and other tall items on your desk, as vases and to corral plastic spoons and forks at casual gatherings. If you don't like to pain, glue contact paper or fine-art pictures from magazines or old books onto cans.
38. Toothbrushes A great way to clean difficult-to-clean items, like grout, cheese graters, jewelry, around faucets, window screens and computer keyboards.
39. Window Screen Staple onto over-sized wood frames to display earrings.
40. Cut-off a small piece and place on the back of a picture to avoid scratching walls.
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