love your nontoxic life

EcoSmart Natural Bug Killer Value Bundle Giveaway!

2010-02-25T04:41:00.000-06:00

Perhaps you remember my, ahem "critter issue"? I had lots of fun ants living with me, who would NOT go away. Finally, I got smart and used the EcoSmart Ant & Roach Killer, pictured below. It's the best natural ant killer I have ever used. Lucky for you, Ecosmart is giving away the insecticide value bundle of your choice to a yournontoxiclife reader!!!

Each person can enter up to 5 times by following the list below.

To enter once: comment below, telling us why you need or want this all natural bug spray bundle.

Bonus entries:

become a follower of this blog
blog about this giveaway and comment back with a link
tweet about this giveaway with @yournontoxiclif (that's without the "e")
become a fan of yournontoxiclife on facebook

The giveaway will close one week from tomorrow, March 5th at midnight CST. I will randomly select a winner one week on Saturday, March 6. I will contact the winner by email, so please include your email in the email box of your comment.

Good Luck!!

Stress Free Video

2010-01-31T00:30:00.000-06:00

This is a fun, amateur video done by students in a psychology class. Funny ending, too.

Focus on the positive outcome of goals | Psychology Today

2010-01-30T09:23:00.000-06:00

Focus on the positive outcome of goals | Psychology Today
This is a great way to jump start any New Year's Resolution that may need fine -tuning at this point.

Top-6-mindless-money-wasters

2010-01-19T00:58:00.000-06:00

top-6-mindless-money-wasters: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance

This is a good article on awareness of money wasters, which are:

-->Convenience Stores

-->Cell Phone Plans

-->Soft Drinks at Restaurants

-->Unnecessary Bank Fees

-->Magazines at the Check Out Line

-->Annual Credit Card Fees

These are indeed BIG money wasters and worth checking out.

Seven Days To Stress Relief

2010-01-17T15:29:00.003-06:00

Seven Days To Stress Relief
I found this great article on relieving your stress in seven days. You are walked through the following aspects of stress:

-->Acknowledge Your Stress

-->Identify Your Stress Triggers

-->Avoid The Drama Queens

-->Learn to Breathe

-->Think Positive

-->Set a Sleep Schedule

-->Take Cues From Those Around You

This is one worth checking out!

5 Tips to Get What You Really Want from GiftCards

2010-01-16T08:44:00.008-06:00

So, here we are. It's January and you probably have already burned through many of the gift cards you received over the holidays.

The ones you still have left are probably from somewhat obscure places or are for places that don't carry what you really want.

Bear in mind I use the term "general fund" a lot. The general fund is the fund I use for regular, household purchases: groceries, paper products, linens, health/beauty products, etc. These are the items that we use the most of and need replenishing regularly.

Cases in point:

Tip #1
I had a gift card for Target,but they didn't carry the vacuum cleaner I wanted. Walmart did. What to do?
Read More

Simple, I used the Target gift card for groceries, thus giving myself a credit in the general fund toward the vacuum cleaner, which I bought the following week.
Tip #2
I had a general "pick-a-gift-card" to a grocery store that I do not like to shop at. However, this was the kind of gift card where I could use to buy another gift card, so I thought I was in the clear. I really wanted something from Amazon. Alas, they didn't sell Amazon gift cards. What to do?

This is a little complicated. DH had given me a "verbal" gift card to Kohls ("Honey, just go ahead and spend $50 at Kohls.") so I bought Kohls gift cards and shifted my verbal giftcard to Amazon. Another option would have been similar to Tip #1 where I could have put the card toward the general fund, by shopping at the grocery store, but I really HATE that grocery store.

Tip #3
I got a crisp $100 bill from my dad and wanted to apply this also to an online purchase. What to do?

I could have gone to the trouble of putting it in the bank, but instead I used it at Walmart toward my biweekly purchases, thus entering it into the general fund. Now I have a "virtual" credit anywhere I want.

Tip #4
My kids got a gift card to a big toy store, that I think is way overpriced. (Apparently, I am the only one who thinks this, as this toy store is hugely popular with my friends and family.) I was kind of stuck in that they don't sell things I could use toward the general fund. What to do?

I gave the gift card away for the first kid's birthday party we were invited to. I then put cash into my kid's envelope toward a future purchase.

Tip #5
A few years ago, I really had my eye on a new "fancy cell phone", but it was a lot of $. What to do?

I got on my bank's website and signed up for their rewards program. I switched some things around, so we are now only using our bank cards for purchases and paying all our bills online, thus maximizing our rewards, or points. Now every few months, we get a $25 MasterCard Gift card, which I saved until I had enough for the phone.
Note: I did lose some money because the older cards had had deductions from the bank for not being used. Next time, I will be aware of this and use them toward the general fund before the monthly fees kick in.

So I have just listed 5 tips for using gift cards. I have also heard, but not verified, that there are websites where you can exchange your gift cards for one store to another you want. Use these sites with caution, however, as I have also heard stories of people trading out used or invalid cards.

(photo credits: robinsonsmay, and borman818,)

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

(Photo credit: Optical illusion)

8 Secret New Year's Resolutions

2009-12-31T00:31:00.000-06:00

After Christmas, instead of asking everyone, "How was your Holiday?", I would like to ask, "Did you find what you were looking for?"

This year, I was looking for a little companionship and fun. And to be honest, I didn't really get either.

I have realized that I need more fun and friends in my life. That is why my New Year's Resolution reflects that. I plan on socializing more in 2010. Or how about just socializing at all?

I think this is somewhat the way others determine their New Year's resolution. Every year many get their hopes up. It's called Holiday Spirit. People try to get "into" the meaning of the holiday. Others look to family and to a lesser extent, friends, to fulfill their Holiday Spirit needs.

I believe our secret New Year's Resolutions reflect, what deep down inside, we realized we were missing after the Holiday.

So we move on to improve things. We figure the new year is the answer for what we missed at the holidays.

The following are 8 well-known New Year's Resolutions and their secret counterparts:

1. The most popular not-so-secret New Year's Resolution's is to lose weight. With similar secret resolutions being: to look younger, wear more fashionable clothes, apply make-up more professionally, and of course, have more good hair days.

2. Probably the next most favored resolution is regarding money. Something along the lines of spend less, and/or make more. The connected secret aim is to get a new car, bigger house and more toys.

3. There's the infamous career advancement, which really means I want the boss to like me.

4. Of course, another attractive intention is to have closer relationships, companionship and understanding. These people secretly want love or just better sex.

5. I've also heard a lot about spirituality. People really want inner peace, change, a fresh start/clean slate, less stress, hope, relief, freedom, or just an easier life.

6. Another leading declaration is to be more organized, which translates to having a clean house or just more time in the day.

7. The people who wish to be smarter, declare themselves to want to go back to school.

8. The resolution to quit smoking is sometimes about health, but most often about control.

In my mind there is nothing wrong with trying to improve your life through a resolution, as long as one is committed and can sustain the momentum all year. My 2009 New Year's Resolution was vague, but I think I (barely) managed to sustain it. It was to put more effort into yournontoxiclife. How'd I do?

There may be more to come on the 2010 New Year's Resolution. I may use yournontoxiclife as an online diary of how well I do with making more friends and having more fun. Stay tuned.

Happy New Year!!!

(photo credits: Abigail Silvester, alancleaver_2000, Qfamily, DorkJr)

Running Alone

2009-12-23T08:45:00.005-06:00

On most days, I like to get up before the world and go running. I try to slip out of my house as quietly as possible, lest I hear "Mommy?" and have to be her.

Rather, I like to get out there and have my "alone" time. As I start out, in the dark, though, I often find myself anything but alone. Even at that early hour, there are others. As I run near the main arteries, I am always surprised to see how many people are already rushing to get places.

However this is a different rush than I see if I run in the evening. In the evening, the rush is more plaintive, more acute and people are more likely to make noise: the squeal of tires, squeaking to a stop, and honking out of frustration. There is actually more anger in the evening traffic. Perhaps people have run out of patience by that time in the day. Perhaps people are so close to home that any delay causes a tantrum.

The morning traffic keeps their tension to themselves. However, when they see me on a cold, snowy morning, I can feel their surprise. They are not expecting to see a runner. But I digress.

Running in the early hours gives me my time, but even with the opportunity to be one with my thoughts for 30 minutes, I still find myself trying to connect. I always greet any other runners with a wave a nod. (We have a secret handshake, but it's hard to run and shake at the same time.)

But what I spend most of my time on is: spying.

I spy the yards of my neighbors. I check out the holiday lights that are still blazing at that time. I observe the well kept houses versus the run down houses. I see who's lights are on in what rooms; I know who leaves early for work and who comes home really late.

The thing I am most obsessed with, however, is who has come before me. After a snow, I always notice the foot prints in the snow and am surprised when mine are not the first ones. I mean who could come out before ME? I follow the prints to see if I can determine who the person is. Where did they come from and where are they going? Most importantly, was it a fellow runner?

I used to run on a crowded path, where no matter how early I would get out, I would find myself dodging cyclists and dogs. I wasn't the only runner, either.

I very much like my new running route where I make it as much about other people as I want, which, as it turns out, is very much.

(Photo credits; davidcoxon, ibm4381, _Shward_)

Happy Winter Solstice!

2009-12-21T01:06:00.000-06:00

(photo credit: ItzaFineDay)

Can I Apply For A Job As A Rich Woman?

2009-12-18T00:52:00.000-06:00

Here is my application:

Name: Magda Madison
Contact Information: magsmadisonATyahooDOTcom

What experience do you have being rich?

Flew first class to the west coast. I handled myself quite maturely when I realized Bonnie Hunt was seated two rows behind me.

Searched online for Mercedes cars.

Know someone who has a Rolex.

An avid watcher of Santa Barbara.

Experience trying on diamonds.

Cleaned a house in a gated community.

How do you plan on keeping a high profile?

Ok. That's easy, I will make sure to have plastic surgery, eat at Taco Bell and break windows with golf clubs.
I will volunteer for a reality show, where I will go bra-less and adopt some kids from another country.
I will change my name at least twice, change my hair at least weekly and only wear red--it will be my trademark.
During slow times, I will be prepared to go commando.

What causes will you champion?

Anything remotely related to an illness
the Beverly Hills Public Library
the Association for Hybrid Bentleys.

How will you maintain your lifestyle?

Simple. I will hire someone to maintain it for me.

Who will your friends be?

Sally Struthers
Bob Saget
Meridith Baxter (she's all the rage, ya know!)
Carol Burnett
Perez Hilton (I just love her!)

(photo credits: char1iej, Swamibu, FunnyTivoFace, birdtoes)

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

2009-12-16T00:26:00.000-06:00

(photo credit: sweet clementine)

Getting Your Inner Light Relit

2009-12-14T00:39:00.001-06:00

No matter what your religion, this is a time of spirituality for many.

It seems to be everywhere. I hear it in the Holiday music. I see it on the street corners. I even feel it, deep down inside.

This is also a time for questioning. Where do I fit in? How do I matter this Spiritual Season? Do I even care?

It's hard for many of us to confront the issue head on. It's an existential question about our future, that is rooted firmly in our past.

How we were brought up, religious or not; spiritual or not; open minded or closed; all combine in a unique recipe of our present reasoning.

It is through this reasoning that we find ourselves here. With questions, doubts or apathy.

Sometimes our inner light simply needs to be re-lit. But to do this, we have to let go of some of our reasoning. We have to let go of the guilt. Once we let go of the guilt there is a space for our Inner Light. It's not a perfect light. Our Inner Light does not have all the answers. Perhaps our inner light is full of questions. It can Seek and Find the right answers for our unique recipe.

Where can you get your Inner Light re-lit? It can be a place of worship. It can be an AA meeting. It can simply be seeing a good deed. The key is we have to allow what we feel to come inside and in it's basic, pure form, relight us.

(photo credits: Francisco Javier Martín, Photos8.com, Lighthelper :) Offline due to heavy workload!)

Wisdom

2009-12-07T00:07:00.002-06:00

"The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people so full of doubts."
Bertrand Russell

As I approach my next birthday, I am reflecting on the decades before. In my teens I found myself to know it all. I had everything figured out and didn't worry about anything. I was confident, even if I didn't have any experience at life.

In my twenties, I found the reality of life crushing. I didn't' know anything at all. Worse, as I learned of the things I didn't know, I found I didn't even have an opinion on them. Opinions were what I always counted on in my teens. I was lost.

My father promised that my thirties would be better. More balanced, he said. He was right--to an extent. I have now found my thirst for knowledge drowned by my utter lack of time to study and learn. I now have the drive I wished I had in college, but without the seemingly stretches of hours I had back then for nonsense. There is so much to learn and too little time to do it.

What will my forties bring? My dad doesn't really have an answer for that--except I do remember his "mid-life crisis" starting about then. But that's another post.

What I do hope my forties will bring is some wisdom. I feel I have tasted a little of that recently. A colleague of mine came to me in a panic, feeling he had utterly blown it in a crisis. I listened and listened. I sympathized with his concern. He had gotten awfully emotional.

However, in the end I felt he had followed the procedure and not let his inner panic keep him from the overall goal of safety. But his chief complaint of himself had been that he had not handled it as I would have--calmly and reasonably.

I reminded him I had been through very similar crises many times and that experience had taught me how to handle things with an inner calm. But was this true wisdom? Does wisdom come from experience?

I don't really believe it does. I imagine the assembly worker who can put together a gizmo in record time because he has done it thousands of times. But there is no real wisdom there. Just a great knowledge of gizmo assembly.

If repetitive experience doesn't bring wisdom, then what does?

"Good people are good because they've come to wisdom through failure."
William Saroyan

Ah, failure! Of course, that I have plenty of. With some of my failures, I have gotten up, dusted myself off and tried again--this time with some additional skills I didn't have before. And it helped.

Of course, something else I have been realizing is my great thirst for knowledge really does mean one thing--I mustn't have known very much at all before. It's clear to me now, that I am not as smart as I thought I was. I know less now than I used to. I suppose I should be checked by a neurologist.

But really, at least I am bright enough now to know how dumb I am.

(photo credits: Zest-pk, Wonderlane)

Realize Your Potential This Wordless Wednesday!

2009-12-02T00:47:00.000-06:00

(Photo credit: lostinmiami)

Top 10 Signs You Drive People Crazy and What To Do About It

2009-11-27T03:11:00.000-06:00

You either fall into the "popular camp" at work; the small group camp or no camp. If you are reading this, you know who you are. Maybe you even
know someone you can forward this to.

Don't panic, there are things can be done. It's like marketing or damage control. Remember, if Hugh Grant and Richard Nixon can do it, so can you.

1. People seem to have a quick excuse to leave your company
Problem: Everyone seems to be really busy around you, even during the off-season.
What you can do: Stick to short, relevant conversations with peers. If you must go off topic, inquire in a friendly way about your colleague's families.

2. Your phone calls always go to voice mail
Problem: It's amazing because it happens even when you KNOW they are there.
What to do: Keep the vmails short and email when possible.

3. No one stops by or even walks by your office, cubicle, etc.
Problem: People take the long way around instead of walking by you.
What to do: Don't tackle anyone who does come along. Just smile at them, and don't start any conversations. If they talk to you, be friendly and don't complain about anything.

4. You frequently eat lunch alone.
Problem: Though you tell yourself it's by your choice, you know it's really everyone else's choice.
What to do: Start eating in the cafeteria, and don't bring any reading material. Be open to conversations, but don't dominate them.

5. If you are talking to someone, suddenly another person always seems to come by needing that person.
Problem: It's the classic "save" technique and this means people have a plan in place in case they get stuck talking to you.
What to do: People are doing this because you are annoying to talk to. Try to improve your social skills. Listen empathetically and let them ask you about yourself.

6. You are never consulted for office parties or gatherings.
Problem: Things just seemed to get decided when you are not around.
What to do: Offer to help take down decorations. No one wants to do this, but it will show you are a team player.

7. You don't have a best friend at work.
Problem: In fact, when you really think about it, you have no friends at work.
What to do: This will take a lot of hard work. Your best bet may be to help mentor a new hire. Talk to your boss about helping new employees learn the ropes. Try to bring in treats for everyone regularly. Bake or buy. Even a veggie tray during the holidays is really appreciated.

8. No one inquires about your holiday plans.
Problem: The sad truth is, people just don't want to know if you will be alone, as they don't want to have to invite you.
What to do: Politely ask about your coworkers plans. They will most likely feel obligated to ask you about your plans. Keep your answers positive and short.

9. No one shares family photos with you.
Problem: When your coworker returns after maternity leave, she doesn't approach you to show pictures of the new baby.
What to do: Ask her in a friendly way when you first see her. Gush and say really nice things about the baby. Don't give advice or talk about your cousin's kids. Offer her your help with any catching up she needs to do.

10. Your boss has stopped teaming you up with others.
Problem: Most of your job duties are solitary and your committee work is minimal.
What to do: Talk to your boss about helping out more and volunteer whenever possible. Try to do considerate things like go on lunch or coffee runs whenever possible. Buy birthday cards for everyone in the office.

These are good steps to take. They will prove you can collaborate, you can be a good friend and you can play nice with others.

(Photo credits: jlastras, archie4oz, cocoate.com)

It's Wordless Wednesday!

2009-11-18T00:31:00.000-06:00

(Photo credit: solution_63)

Boundaries Anyone?

2009-11-17T18:41:00.000-06:00

Do you say no?

Do you take time for yourself?

Who do you live your life for? Your kids? Your spouse? Your work? Your blog?

Are you a super hero?

Wrong answers.

There's something I just noticed myself doing. I was having another family over for a BBQ and instead of telling them 3pm, which would have been better for me, much better for me, I found myself saying 2:00pm, out of some fantastical theory that that time was better for them, although I had nothing to base that on. Why didn't I just say come at 3?

Since that BBQ, I have been much better with my boundaries. I have even said, "No." a few times (even though I felt mean doing it). I have called in sick when sick, even. I am on a roll. But...

Enter the Holidays.

I received an e-vite for a birthday party. It's for the weekend before Thanksgiving and really NOT what I want to do that weekend. I thought about it. Felt like maybe I could do it. Maybe I could just stay up really late the night before Thanksgiving and get everything done I would've done over that weekend.

But then, my peoples, I got real. I said no. I said, "That's the last weekend before Thanksgiving so I'll have to pass." And I felt pretty bad.

But, get this: I think they actually understood. I felt bad, but they were pretty cool about it. Maybe I was on to something?

Then there was another challenge to my "boundary sobriety". My kids' school sent out information on the Holiday Fair. They wanted volunteers. My kids REALLY wanted me to do a 3 hour shift (that's right--THREE hours). And they said, "Please, please, puuuhhlleeezzzzee?" They gave me that look, too.

But I had to say, "No." Just like that. I told my kids I'd rather spend the extra time with them and that we could stop by the Holiday Fair, but that we would spend time together afterward, at home.

Now I realize I am on a roll, but will soon need to face the biggest holiday, guilt-ridden challenge of all: my mother.

Wish me luck.

(Photo credits: Groene Sint, Tostie14)

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

2009-11-11T19:02:00.001-06:00

Berlin Zoo & Aquarium, originally uploaded by kacos2000.

11 Red Flags that you're Friends with a Psycho

2009-11-05T00:10:00.001-06:00

Are there rules to friendships?

Some would say no. They would say true friendships come naturally and if everyone plays well with others, rules aren't necessary.

But, others...Others would say yes, friends need to treat each other a certain way. Their certain way. Now the specifics are a little tricky. It seems of those who have friendship rules, each has their own, unique set of symptoms, uh, I mean rules.

If you are concerned one of your friends may be pushing things a little too much with you or you find yourself on the receiving end of one tantrum after another, look below.

You may be friends with a psycho if:

1. You must return their calls the same day.
Their thinking: If they are a true friend, they will always prioritize my call.

2. You must return texts within an hour.
I have seen this one with possessive boyfriends, too.

3. You must reciprocate communication exactly.
This is classic "score keeping" and they are the only ones keeping tally marks.

4. You must remember all birthdays, holidays, etc. This one keeps card shops in business and can be a nightmare for those of use with bad memories.

5. You must assume all Friday nights are Friend nights.
It's the assumption that is the red flag here. Why not ask?

6. You must take turns buying lunch.
This may sound like common courtesy, but I'm talking about when pennies are counted and someone brings up you ordered one more drink than they did.

7. Your closet is their closet.
I know this sound so junior high, but this thinking can be expanded to include tools and kitchen appliances.

8. Your friend feels invited to all of your parties, automatically This can be really tricky if you want a party just for family. Some "rule following" friends consider themselves to be just like family and will feel VERY rejected if they are not welcomed at all events.

9. Your friend tells you everything. And by everything, I mean EVERYTHING. Just a warning that this includes confessions of the illegal and immoral kind.

10. You must drop everything and stay over if they get dumped.
OK, what once was automatic, has now changed as you are not single and have witnessed your friend get dumped by half of Boston. But they may still consider it your duty.

11. They are your only best friend.
This one is pretty self-explanatory. It means no one else can have a personal joke without them.

Now some of these may seem perfectly normal to you non-rule followers. However, notice that most of them fall into two categories: possessiveness, and score keeping. I don't know about most of you, but to me, that's a little too first grade to be normal adult behavior.

And the thing is, many people who have rules of friendship, follow like close to ALL of these rules. I think that is where the rest of us get into trouble.

One, we don't really think about all this with our friends. And two, going into a potential friendship with rules that are basically invisible to one person, is a set up for a let down. And a fight.

You might be wondering what would happen if someone with rules became friends with someone else with rules?

Think mutual restraining orders.

(photo credits: e v e n, and ClevelandSGS,)

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

2009-11-04T15:13:00.003-06:00

(Photo credit: protectorrr)

A Life Without Debt: Procrastination Is The Enemy - SavingAdvice.com Blog

2009-11-02T00:48:00.000-06:00

A Life Without Debt: Procrastination Is The Enemy - SavingAdvice.com Blog

True, so true. The more you put off little repairs or savings plans, the more it ends up costing you.

Currently, I am procrastinating in turning in child care receipts for reimbursement through the IRS. The amount I would get would almost cover the small credit card debt I have. The small credit card debt I have will start to grow exponentially next year, when the low interest deal we got runs out.

Hmmmm. Guess I need to actually turn in those receipts. Well, no better time than the present-hold on a sec. Okay, that took me one hour to sort, fill out forms, make copies and fax off 11 pages to the IRS.

By this time next week, I will have almost paid off my credit card balance! And without using my tax refund! Yeah, me!

Wholesome Guide to Misbehaving | Psychology Today

2009-11-01T19:17:00.001-06:00

Wholesome Guide to Misbehaving | Psychology Today

I love any ideas that mischief can be good for us!

This article discusses how breaking societal or personal norms can be healthy, even good for us.

People need to give themselves a break from their lives occasionally. They need to sometimes allow that impulsive inner child to take over, within reason.

The article even talks about doing something rather daring, like going to bed early!

I may print out this article to show some certain peoples I know.

3 Tasty, triple-certified coffees — all with an extra 4th cause with a kick | green LA girl

2009-11-01T14:44:00.000-06:00

3 Tasty, triple-certified coffees — all with an extra 4th cause with a kick | green LA girl

Here is a great guide to fair trade month coffees, with a guide at the end for those of us who still don't know the difference between organic and fair trade.

Now I know.

Strategies can save you money on printer ink -- baltimoresun.com

2009-10-30T00:00:00.000-06:00

Strategies can save you money on printer ink -- baltimoresun.com

I really like the ecofont idea and will download it and see if it really saves money.

I also will try refills. This requires planning skills that I sometimes lack. But I figure if I keep a spare empty cartidge around, it'll get refilled eventually, especially if I keep it in an obvious spot.

In sum, I think everyone can find some tip to try here and I'd love to hear comments or opinions on how this worked.

Kmart: Smart Assist Savings Card – 20% off Select Kmart brands for Unemployed | Bargain Briana

2009-10-29T00:42:00.000-06:00

If you are unemployed, you can save 20% off at Kmart and receive a $10 off coupon!

I believe this is new and I suspect other retailers will jump on board. Kind of a win-win situation for the unemployed and the retailers who need sales. With the holiday season around the corner, any discount is a good discount as far as I'm concerned.

Do you know of any savings for the unemployed? Please comment below with any information!

I'd love to hear how this works out for you.

Why You Want to Save Money and What You’re Willing to Do About It - SavingAdvice.com Blog

2009-10-28T00:52:00.000-06:00

Why You Want to Save Money and What You’re Willing to Do About It - SavingAdvice.com Blog

The basic idea here is what's your motivation to saving money?

I really feel motivation is one of the few things that will drive change. I think if we are properly motivated we can even give up bad habits. Think: smoking, biting nails, eating junk.

I also think it's a case of how bad do you want it? I think we can learn from professional coaches. They pump up the players and take things one step (or game) at a time. Each time, they reiterate why they are doing this.

"We're better than them!"
"We have the talent!"
"There's no reason we should let them take this!"

I think motivational phrases like this can work for those of us trying to save money:

"I really deserve that cleaning lady!"
"I can keep my family safer by making my own cleaners!"
"There's no reason I should be paying that much!"

Happy Fall Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-28T00:24:00.002-06:00

White oak leaf, originally uploaded by Dendroica cerulea.

the HUB-4 Ways to Save on Prescription Drugs

2009-10-27T00:40:00.001-06:00

Four ways to save on prescription drugs

I think these are good tips.

I would also add to ask my doctor directly about the lowest cost effective prescription.

In addition, Walmart does offer some prescription drugs for $4. Again, I would work directly with my doctor on these low cost options.

(photo credit: Lee Nachtigal)

Julia Moulden: Math Is Not Hard: A Simple Method That Is Changing The World

2009-10-26T00:19:00.001-06:00

Julia Moulden: Math Is Not Hard: A Simple Method That Is Changing The World

Who would've thought breaking things down and allowing for practice would have such an impact?

And why, may I ask, does it take a Ph. D. who has never been a classroom teacher to "discover" what resource and special ed teachers have been doing all along?

That is, breaking things down and allowing for practice.

The Frugal Girls!: Rite Aid Deals and Freebies this Week {10/25 - 10/31}

2009-10-24T10:09:00.000-06:00

The Frugal Girls!: Rite Aid Deals and Freebies this Week {10/25 - 10/31}
Check out these great deals from Rite Aid. I don't live near a Rite Aid myself, but I thought some of you might. Let me know how it goes. Have fun saving!!

Happy Diwali Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-22T19:15:00.001-06:00

Diwali, originally uploaded by varun_shinde.

Overzealous: Walmart Fires Security Guard For Chasing After Shoplifter Like He's In A Cop Movie

2009-10-21T19:13:00.000-06:00

Overzealous: Walmart Fires Security Guard For Chasing After Shoplifter Like He's In A Cop Movie

OK. Is he an admirable hero who just took an armed thief off the street?

Or is he the dumbest guy on earth?

I am leaning toward the latter.

He does not have powers of arrest, is unarmed and getting paid way too little to go playing Rambo.

Most, if not all, retailers have rules against chasing shoplifters. And for good reason. A person who has just shoplifted is feeling an adrenaline rush that can push them to do extraordinary things.

Things like run really fast, fight or even pull a weapon. If any of these things happen, not only is the employee in danger, but imagine a store parking lot or an interior mall entrance. Yikes!

So, not only did this guy allow his ego to get the best of him, he is now unemployed and non-rehirable by the biggest retailer of them all. Oh, and let's not forget his story is viral.

The Pendulum - Four-legged friendships create necessary stress relief for students

2009-10-20T00:21:00.001-06:00

The Pendulum - Four-legged friendships create necessary stress relief for students

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development is studying the effects of animals on stress. There is a lot of anecdotal evidence that animals do help with stress relief. Many people in the article feel they have proof.

And I know many, many people who swear that having pets makes them happy and makes them feel better.

However, having an animal does not reduce stress for everyone. Sorry to the believers, but for me, animals have always added to my stress levels. I liked my animals, I guess, but the fur, the barking/meowing, the destruction of furniture, and the excrement all have me swearing: no more animals!

So, my question is does stress relief with animals only work if people are already an "animal person"?

Natural substance in melons relieves stress and fatigue

2009-10-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

Natural substance in melons relieves stress and fatigue

This is an article about a study done using melon juice concentrate. It really helped people with their stress and concentration.

It makes me wonder:

1) where can I get some melon juice concentrate?

2) why is it that there is always a link between stress and concentration?

Difficulty in concentrating is often the first sign of stress in many people. It's as if stress takes over and suddenly nothing gets done.

Will melon juice be the answer? Or will we have to actually figure out how to concentrate our way through stress?

Food for thought.

Ease into Stress Relief

2009-10-17T00:21:00.001-06:00

There is a phrase in Mehta Mediation that goes like this:

"May you have ease and well-being."

I have often thought about what that means and why those two words: ease and well-being are together.

When life is such that I feel I am trudging through mud and muck, I am not well. When life is stressful, complicated, messy or depressing, there is no ease and no well-being. Things--big and little--seem out of control and I get overwhelmed.

Ease. It has such a simple nice sound to it. I look around and sometimes see "ease" in my life. When I see it, I know I want more of it. And so sometimes that is really easy. Once I have "eased" it, I am so thankful I did. The phrase, "Keep it Simple, Stupid." comes to mind.

Here are some examples of ease in my life:

a lock was re-keyed and I carried the spare around in my pocket separate from the rest of my keys. It was NOT easy. But once I did the simple act of removing the old key and putting on the new one, it was SO much easier. Ahh. Ease.

The top of my dresser had become a catch-all. I hated looking at the clutter. Finally I spent the 15 minutes to clean it off, dust and on it put a simple vase and frame. Now i love looking at that space. Ease.

My kids toys are forever running out of batteries. Since I use rechargeable wherever I can, they used to wait (and whine) for the 12 hours it took to charge them. Now I have a nifty 15 minute charger that is enough of a wait that the kids appreciate what goes into rechargeable batteries, but it's quick enough that I (almost) hear no whining. Ease.

This is a biggie. We used to live without a garage because it was so full of clutter (which is the opposite of ease as far as I'm concerned). Now we can both park in the garage, rain or shine and it is SO nice. Ease.

I now carry around a list for Walmart. When I notice we're out of something or will be soon, I jot it down. This has helped me remember the small and odd things like: garlic powder, lip balm, (rechargeable) batteries, which are a pain to deal with when I forget to get them. Ease.

Medical receipts. Having one, central location for the receipts has been a godsend. It saves me the time I would hunt for them. It saves me money, too because I never lose those receipts anymore. Ease.

Setting out clothes the night before. This helps the whole family. We make decisions when we are awake and can make reasonable choices about what the day will be like, what matches, if we need gym shoes, etc. Then in the morning, when we are crabby, tired and incoherent, we at least look like we have it together. Ease.

I've tried to give you a variety of "ease" examples to see how making things easier, can relieve stress. Sometimes it's the little things in our life over which we have control that can really make a difference.

(photo credits: Katie@!, mriggen, Charles Williams)

Happy Belated Wednesday!

2009-10-16T17:07:00.001-06:00

, originally uploaded by Bocian & Tusia.

Junk on "Parade" - JUNKMARKET Style

2009-10-12T12:29:00.000-06:00

What do you do when you are:
A) Green
B) a Neat Freak
C) faced with JUNK or clutter, and
D) need a little more style?

The answer is turn to junkmarketstyle. They use actual junk that they basically pull out of a landfill and make it into something I'd be proud to have in my home.

In my case, I have a basement beginning to affect my eye twitch, so I have plenty to do!

Planet and Green Forest Product Review | The Greenest Dollar

2009-10-11T14:55:00.005-06:00

Great reasons to use only natural, nontoxic cleaners. Upon hearing women who work at home have a 54% higher death rate from cancer proves what I have thought for a long time about commercial cleaners. They can be deadly for women. Imagine what they are doing to our kids.

Here are some of my favorite nontoxic cleaning methods:

--> Try Borax. Nontoxic and money saving!

--> Vinegar, oh vinegar, say have you met vinegar. Let me introduce you . You'll fall in love!

--> Tea tree oil. This is my number way to clean green and save green.

--> Not only is the Magic Eraser really magic, it's also REALLY green.

I wish everyone knew how great (and cheap) green cleaning can be!

Ode to the Ecofan | Wise Bread

2009-10-11T14:51:00.000-06:00

Great way to save $ heating this winter. Check it out! A fan that costs about a "C" note, can cut your oil use in half! This baby just sits on top of a heating stove and the heat itself operates it! I almost wish I had oil instead of natural gas.

Totally Together Reviews: Samsung Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator Review and $200 Best Buy Gift Card Give-Away

2009-10-11T09:32:00.000-06:00

Great Giveaway for $200 Best Buy gift card!!

Happy Relaxing Wednesday!

2009-10-07T00:28:00.000-06:00

Food Waste | Pays to Live Green

2009-10-04T17:28:00.000-06:00

If we waste approximately 20% of our food, then we waste 20% of our food budget. I am wondering if those green "Stay fresh" plastic containers and bags would help. Has anyone tried them?

Payments: Pay Restaurant Tabs From The Comfort Of Your Table

2009-10-04T17:23:00.000-06:00

I am skeptical of a blue-tooth based credit card system. Although I wonder sometimes how secure it is to hand over my card to a waiter/waitress who may hand it over to unknown host/hostess/manager to actually swipe it. What is the lesser of the two evils here?

Walgreens FREE and Cheap 10/4 – 10/10

2009-10-03T19:12:00.000-06:00

Here is a link for some deals at Walgreens. I remember when they stopped the free-rebate deals, so I am glad to see Walgreens still has some deals.

Enjoy!

Nine Things I Can't Blame on the Economy

2009-10-02T00:49:00.001-06:00

1. The Weather
This seems to be so random, I can't blame it on anyone. Except a Higher Power who probably has a higher plan, so that's really blameless all around.

2. The Utter Lack of Sleeping Taking Place in My House There are nap strikes. There are adrenaline powered 10 pm bedtimes and one worn out mama. Sheesh.

3. My Irregular Meditation Schedule
This is just my own fault. Really you'd think after reading #2 that I'd have all kinds of reasons to try to chill.

4. Parenting Induced-Attention Deficit Disorder
Seriously I am used to getting interrupted so often, that I can no longer concentrate for more than....Uh, where was I?

5. Technology Problems
My own theory on tech problems is they are a cosmic joke, not a result of over spending, layoffs or the housing market.

6. Critter and Bug Issues
I'd love to blame these littler vermin on someone or something. My friend says, "We are living in their house, remember?" Oh, yeah.

7. Winter is Coming
Now, I know this is related to #1, but I feel it deserves a separate number. In the south, they have no winter, but in the north it's inevitable. Therefore, the only one I can blame winter on is myself, as I choose to live here.

8. My Health
If I am not taking care of myself by getting enough sleep, eating right, meditating and exercising, then I cannot blame recurring sinus issues, back trouble and H1N1 on anyone else.

9. Bullying
There seems to be a relationship between kids bullying and their home and school. But I can only say that both need to educate the kids, give them consequences and not hide under the cozy blanket of denial. When any adult ignores bullying they make bullying powerful

(photo credits: extranoise, Harpersbizarre, mikal-bisnovat, Eddie~S)

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-30T00:47:00.000-06:00

Photo Credit Winstonavich

My Weekly Swear Chart

2009-09-28T00:28:00.001-06:00

Swears overheard in church: 3

My out loud swears:approx. 300

Swears said in my head:approx. 4, 572

Gestural Swears: 2

Swears during traffic: 13

Times I've sworn at work:approx. 203

Swears aimed toward a certain PERSON: 28

Swears aimed toward myself: 397

Online swears: 27

Number of bloggers I follow who swear in posts: 6

Grumbled Swears: 5,814

T e x t swearing: 99

Swears on TV: 8

Extended family induced swears: 9,650

Accidental-on-purpose swears: 26

F-Bombs dropped around my mother: 49

F-Bombs dropped BY my mother: 112

Swears while writing this post: 7

Boss related swears out loud: 0

Boss related swears held in: I forget

EcoSmart Giveaway Winners Announced!!

2009-09-25T17:50:00.009-06:00

Andrea B, PK Bailey, Clynsg, Packerfantimmy and Charisscharity are the 5 winners of the EcoSmart Giveaway!!

Winners-I will email you today. Please respond in 24 hours or I will have to pick another winner!

Thanks to everyone who entered. This was a very successful giveaway. If you became a follower, I especially thank you. To all, please come back and visit!

Scattered Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-23T05:58:00.002-06:00

Step One-layout on contact paper, originally uploaded by Migraine Chick.

Coupon Chief--Save Money and Make Money!

2009-09-20T18:59:00.008-06:00

Coupon Code can save and make you money!

I have found a great website that is right up my alley. It's Coupon Chief.

Coupon Chief saves you money and is an unique way to make money, as well.

Here is a peek at how it works to save you money:

search for your store to find coupon codes to use at checkout when shopping online
search for the item you are shopping for (i.e. curtains, clothes, shoes) and find stores that carry your item, along with coupon codes
sign up for their email newsletter to get customized emails of the stores you are interested in. You'll know when a new coupon code is available!

And this is how you can make money at Coupon Chief:

if you have an online store, you can submit your site for free!! You can get improved placement and control your promos and coupon code listings, driving traffic to your store!
submit a coupon code using their Pays-2-Share program. Every time someone uses your coupon, you get 2% of the sales. No kidding!! You get paid via check or paypal.

In case I've just confused you, there is a video tutorial on Coupon Chief which makes all of this easy to understand.

I know some online coupon code sites have coupons for stores I've never heard of. So in case you're wondering, Coupon Chief has great coupons for stores like Sears, Home Depot, Best Buy, Macy's, Ann Taylor Loft, and Amazon. So, really, really good stores.

As their blog points out, only 96 Shopping Days until Christmas, so it may be a good idea to get Coupon Chief shopping now!

Photo credit: stopnlook

EcoSmart Giveaway!!!

2009-09-18T00:38:00.003-06:00

To help you with any creeping crawlies, EcoSmart is giving away the insecticide product of your choice to a yournontoxiclife reader.

Each person can enter up to 5 times by following the list below.

To enter once: comment below

Bonus entries:

become a follower of this blog
blog about this giveaway and comment back with a link
tweet about this giveaway with @yournontoxiclif (that's without the "e")
become a fan of yournontoxiclife on facebook

I will randomly select a winner one week from today, on Friday, September 25. I will contact the winner by email, so please include your email in the email box of your comment.

Good Luck!!

Update: Giveaway is over!

The Critter Journal Part 2: EcoSmart Product Review

2009-09-17T07:08:00.004-06:00

Day 25

I received a sample pack of EcoSmart environmentally friendly insect control products today in the mail!!

EcoSmart products are Home Pest Control, Ant & Roach Killer, Insect Repellent, and Flying Insect Killer.

Seriously, great timing, as the ants have now split into separate colonies: one in the family room and one in kitchen. I have also noticed a small group of pioneer ants near my front door.

I sorted the products and realized I had two products to use on the ants. I will hit them with a double whammy.

Day 26

The first product I tried was for both indoor and outdoor use. Glory day! It is called EcoSmart Organic Home Pest Control for indoor and outdoor use. It is non-toxic, safe around kids and pets. It kills and repeals over 100 home invading pests. Definitely what I need.

I sprayed it along a baseboard in my family room, as well as along the outside of the house in that same spot. It is a pump spray bottle. In the house, I think I may have sprayed a bit much, as it pooled a bit on the floor. So, I just dabbed it with a paper towel.

I immediately noticed a strong odor, something like rosemary, but a little sweeter. Even though I am oversensitive to odors, this was actually not bad. However, it did permeate the first floor, so I decided to let that dissipate a bit before using the other product, EcoSmart Organic Insecticide Ant & Roach Killer.

Day 27

I refuse to access the ant count today as I am still in the middle of my EcoSmart application.

Today I used EcoSmart Organic Insecticide Ant & Roach Killer. It non-toxic, plant based and safe around kids and pets. The can also says it is water based and university tested.

It is an aerosol can and was a bit easier to apply. I used it inside only in the kitchen and by the front door. This odor was much stronger and very cinnamon-y. It really made the house smell good, but since it was so strong, I opened all the windows and we all went outside for awhile.

Day 28

The odors are completely gone and guess what? Zero ant sightings! Zero! After fighting with them for the last four weeks using every homemade concoction I could think of, here I used EcoSmart for two days the problem seems to be solved. Wow!

Update: Day 42

It's been two weeks since the application of EcoSmart and still no ants!! I am planning on using EcoSmart Organic Home Pest Control on the whole perimeter of my house now and again in the spring.

I have plans for the rest of their products, too:

EcoSmart Organic Insect Repellent is DEET free, non-toxic and keeps away mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats. I am really excited about this and plan on using this on our campfire night, which is always a mosquito fest.

EcoSmart Organic Insecticide Flying Insect Killer is safe around kids and pets and is a plant based insecticide. I am beginning to notice bees randomly flying around my backyard since my neighbors bleached (yes, bleached) their ground hives. I wonder if they are looking for a new home. The Flying Insect Killer will definitely come in handy.

Finally there is EcoSmart Organic Garden Insect Killer. It is also safe around kids and pets. Ut us non-toxic and environmentally safe. It can be used on fruits,vegetables, flowers, ornamentals, trees and shrubs. I plan on using this on my roses next year, as something beetle-ish ate all the petals! I also plan on using it on my one tomato plant next season. It didn't do too well and I'm thinkin' it was infiltrated.

Negatives
So far, I am loving what I am seeing. I did have some minor issue with the smell and wonder if, in the winter, I might need to spray this before we leave for the day.

Since I am particular (some would say anal), I did web searches on all the ingredients in these products that I didn't recognize. I found them to be listed as either pesticide-free or EPA certified safe for use around food and people.

I do think it might be better if some of the products were available in both aerosol and spray bottles so people could just pick what they wanted.

Who Should Buy this Product?

Anyone who needs fast relief from pests. I think I would recommend this product to the environmentally conscious and the non-believers alike. It seems to be that effective that there is nothing to give up here.

Come back tomorrow for a chance to win the EcoSmart Product of your choice!!

Underwater Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-16T09:27:00.000-06:00

Ralf Peek

The Girl who Silenced the world for 5 Minutes

2009-09-14T17:33:00.002-06:00

This is an especially moving video of a 13 year old girl, pleading with the UN for our environment.

The Critter Journal Part 1

2009-09-14T00:23:00.001-06:00

Day 1

I just discovered ants in my stairs leading to my family room. This slightly freaks me out because:

I HATE bugs in my house
They are a few feet from my kitchen
I have children who will probably get into mischief with the little critters
They give me the creepy crawlies.

But, in pure Madison denial mode, I am sure it is an isolated incident and so I shall just forget about them for a few days.

Day 4

The ants have been busy. Or should I say, gettin busy, as there are now easily twice as many as before. In general I'm always happy when someone, anyone, really, is getting a little something-something, but in this case, eewwwwww. But wait a minute, do ants even have sex?

As one of my kids so smartly pointed out, "Mommy there are probably a kagillion ant eggs under the house." OK, now I am thoroughly grossed out. I made DH clean them up with my nontoxic counter spray and told my kids, "no more talking about the ants."

Day 9

I was about to go up to bed when DH came in from the garage carrying a small cardboard box from the recycling bin. He had a weird look on his face. A look I had seen before. I began slightly panicking, but managed to stumble out the words, "It's, is it alive?", as he walked into the family room.

The conversation then went like this:

Him "Yes, it's black and furry and -"

Me "I don't want to hear another word. I'm effing outta here."

Him "Where are you going?'

Me "I don't know." I contemplated the backseat of my car, but felt guilty that the kids wouldn't fit. I considered a hotel, but they also freak me out a little.

Following me upstairs, he said, "But what should I do?"

Me "I don't effing care what the f*^k you do, just effing take care of it!"

Him "But should I get a trap? What's open right now?"

I'm like look, I am an excellent problem solver, I can walk you through a diaper rash emergency, which vegetables to cook with dinner and trouble shooting the internet connection. BUT I DRAW THE LINE HERE. YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN.

He was clearly mad. So was I. I mean, I consider myself to be a feminist, but I had a bad experience with a mouse once that clearly traumatized me.

Day 10
I polled the gals at work. EVERY one totally agreed with me that DH should handle this on his own. Some even visibly squirmed when I said the "m" word, glancing quickly around for a place in which to jump up in case one should magically appear.

They, of course, asked what HE had done to take of the problem and I told them I honestly didn't know, but that he left the house after our "discussion" and returned 30 minutes later. I assume he was taking care of it.

That night I managed to hear, "I put a trap behind the TV, that's where he's living..." before I could shut him up. Seriously, he's not gettin it, here.

Day 11
I asked my friend at work the if she would talk to DH for me and she gently told me she wasn't my marriage counselor.

Day 13

With the mouse crisis, had I totally forgotten about the ants. My kids however, reminded me. I noticed they continued to expand their colony. I mixed up a batch of my nontoxic lethal ant eliminator and asked DH to move the paneling and molding to sprinkle the stuff.

This particular ant killer stuff worked wonders on carpenter ants in another house we lived in. I even used to sprinkle the mixture around the perimeter of my house in the spring and fall to help curb infestations.

So, after the doing the same here, I felt the problem was solved and went back to obsessing about the mouse, which was apparently living in my TV cart amongst the videos (!).

Needless to say he hasn't bitten on the trap.

Day 14

Last night, I dreamt of things crawling on me and woke up CONVINCED there was "something" in the bed. After stripping off all the covers, I found nothing, but I couldn't be too sure, so I spent the rest of the night in the chair.

I know the mouse trap thing is probably not "humane", but at this point the nighttime temperatures are below freezing already. So, the mouse would either die a long and painful death outside OR a quick death inside.

At least, that's what I am telling myself to appease this weird sense of guilt I seem to have all of a sudden. Besides, I am having people over this weekend...

Day 18

The ants did not like the killer powder I mixed up. But it didn't kill them, they just pushed it out from under the molding. Kind of like they were saying, no thanks. I have considered other options:

the world's tiniest mouse trap, modified for ants?
a trail of ant crystals leading, them to the patio doors, but then what? I can't leave the screen open for them, they'll invite friends in. I know, a trail leading them in a circle to tire them out. the ones who aren't in shape might have a heart attack? OK scratch that one.
nighttime surveillance, using DH's hunting equipment?

Maybe it will take some time.

Day 19

Ding dong the mouse is dead, I mean the mouse has passed on. I didn't ask about it, but found the TV cart moved back against the wall when I returned from work. A silent communication that DH has done his job and protected me. Maybe I'll have to thank him later.

But the ants? They are just mocking me now, openly mocking me. I found a stray meatball left from dinner under the kitchen table this morning, literally covered with ants and a long, wide path of ants stretching to the next room. That's it!!!! I am done being passive and nice about this! I am bringing out the big artillery. That's right, I am going to FEED my ants food from my pantry.

Day 21

Well they took my bait. They are loving the special food I put out for them. Bet you're wondering what it is. It is instant grits, believe it or not. Apparently the grits expand once they are in the ants tummy's and while their small backs are FREAKISHLY strong, their tummies are not.

I know that sounds morbid, but what's a gal gonna do here? I can't set them free, can I? And soon I will have come to terms with the small black dots in my son's poop...

Day 24
Guess what? The ants who took the bait must have little iron tummies. And I guess I have inadvertently trained the rest not to trust me.

I was seriously considering something I never thought I'd do. I mean, really, how much damage can 1 application of pesticides do to us?

Then I shook that off as a deal with the devil. And I was rewarded by an angel.

Photo credits: ceoln, emily999

September 11, 2009 Patriot Day

2009-09-11T20:03:00.003-06:00

I hate this day. I hate what happened 8 years ago. I hate how we seem to be ignoring the biggest disaster I have ever witnessed in my life.

I hate that 9/11 has caused me to hate.

For years now, I have asked for a National Holiday to honor the victims and their families. I feel this should be a day when we look at our loved ones and realize how fortunate we are and thank whichever God we pray to that we have our family right now.

And now we have Patriot Day. This year I thought that would make a difference. But it just seemed like business as usual.

Today is nothing like business as usual. To me, there is still no closure and probably never will be. People went to work that day just like we did today. The difference is they never came home.

September 11, 2010 will be a Saturday and I am going to pretend it's the National Holiday I always wanted. I intend to celebrate life, family and freedom. I will not say, "I hate..." that day. I will instead name the things I have; the things I love.

Clorox Natural Laundry Detergent Product Review

2009-09-10T08:16:00.001-06:00

Prior to Blogher '09, I received a good size sample of Clorox Green Works Natural Laundry Detergent and sample of their Green Works Natural Laundry Stain Remover. The samples came with a note that encouraged me to try the items before BlogHer '09.

Clorox Green Works Laundry Detergent

95% natural,
safe for the environment,
phosphate free
45 oz container, 2x concentrated for 30 loads.

Results

I have been using the product off and on for the last few months. I have tried to use in a variety of situations: cold wash/rinse, hot wash/rinse, whites (with bleach and without), darks and stains, you know, blah, blah, blah. I found it worked just as well as my usual detergent in all these situations.

However, the smell was really strong, not a bad smell, but strong to me. Now I have to say I am used to fragrance free laundry detergent due my oversensitivity to odors. To be fair, it was supposed to be scented and it didn't give me a headache or do anything to my skin. However at BlogHer, I did ask if they had an unscented option and they do. So maybe this is a moot point.

Clorox Natural Stain Remover

99% Natural

22 fl. oz.

Results

So far, far out! It worked REALLY well on red dye that bled onto a white shirt, that had been through the dryer. It also has a scent, which, again, may just be my sensitivity issue.

I have not had too many other stains to test this on, but I did try it on a mold stain, which let's face it NOTHING can get out. It didn't get it out, either.

Who should buy this product?

The Green Works Products are for people who want a green product that's available in thier regular store. It's convenient and doesn't hurt the environment.

Negatives

The only negatives I can see are the containers in which this product is used. For a green product, the laundry detergent jug is 25% recycled plastic. There is no indication on the Green Works Stain Remover bottle whether it contains any recycled plastic. It would be great if the jug was made with a collapsible, recyclable container. And for the spray bottle, I suggest a smaller concentrated bottle that one could add to their own spray bottle with water.

Tweet this Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-09T14:27:00.003-06:00

aldenchadwick

When Does Frugality Turn Into Theft? - SavingAdvice.com Blog

2009-09-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

When Does Frugality Turn Into Theft? - SavingAdvice.com Blog

This is an interesting article about the line between saving money and being honest. However, in each of these situations, I have found a way to save honestly:

Movie Theatre-bringing in food. I agree the cost of movie tickets and food is prohibitive, however, there are theaters out there that sell tickets for half price and include popcorn and soda!

Burning CD's and DVD's for Private Use-I agree the costs of these things has gotten steep. But you can buy only the songs you like online and save money. As for DVD's, borrow them from the library-how many times can you watch it anyway?

Using Restaurant Water to Make Your Own Lemonade-Can't I just be satisfied with water? Isn't a trip to a restaurant about the food anyway?

Coupon Abuse-since many are available online, they can be printed multiple times. In addition, I ALWAYS save more on generics than the name brands that sometimes have coupons.

Bringing a Cup into a Restaurant and Using Their Fountain Service-it is stealing. Again, how about just drinking water?

Getting Something Free, Even if you Don't Meet the Requirements-not only is this dishonest, it's tacky and may come back to you. Try looking harder for freebies you do qualify for.

Getting Discounted Tickets by Lying About Age-I really don't like this one, it sets a bad example for kids. Look for coupons to use for admission to these places or buy a yearly pass.

Birthday/Anniversary Date Lies-I don't know about you, but this screams Bad Karma to me. Again, there are always deals online where you can get discounts without lying.

Discounts That Don't Apply-This is similar to those above, get legitimate discounts that do apply online.

Yoga, Pranayama, Alternate Nostril Breathing, Nadi Sodhana

2009-09-06T18:47:00.000-06:00

Yoga, Pranayama, Alternate Nostril Breathing, Nadi Sodhana

This is a totally natural way to enhance your well-being, increase energy and reduce stress.

stressed about stress?

2009-09-04T13:24:00.001-06:00

How many times have you been worried you'd freak out about something?

Or have you ever thought back on a situation and kicked yourself for losing it?

These are the kind of past and present thoughts that can really ruin your (current) day. All that ruminating also distracts you from the present moment. All the stress about stress makes things even worse than the original stress.

Think of stress as a dot, like the period at the end of this sentence. But when we stress about it, the dot grows. When we fight it or avoid it, it grows more and more. This causes suffering. This battle can kill us before there is ever a war. OK, not kill us exactly, but give us quite a headache. Or a mean eye twitch.

The point is that we need to learn to befriend our feelings, even the ones we don't like, especially the ones we don't like. What is your least favorite feeling? For me, I'll do anything to avoid crying, so sadness is the one I hate. It makes me feel weak and vulnerable.

Because I don't cry (read: hate feeling sad), I end up getting teary when I laugh hard and whenever the wind seems to blow toward my face. Think that's coincidence?

However, I need to allow myself to feel sadness because all the avoiding is costing me. It's causing me to get really angry at myself. And when I get angry at myself, let's just say I'm not Mary Freakin' Poppins.

And so, I need to get to a place where I can welcome my sadness. Having feelings means I'm alive. And I am thankful, really thankful to be alive. And if being alive means I feel sad sometimes...I am working on it.

(Photo Credit: Finsec, A National Acrobat)

Wordless Wednesday-They Just Keep Comin' Around

2009-09-02T19:39:00.001-06:00

quaziefoto

The Mediocre Multitasker: Study Shows Persistent Multitaskers Perform Badly In A Variety Of Tasks

2009-08-31T18:44:00.000-06:00

Does this mean I can't paint my nails while watching football while reading my google reader while ..what was I saying?

What Time Is It?

2009-08-29T18:58:00.006-06:00

So, the kids are back in school, the weather where I live is unseasonably cold and the Dollar Store has it's Christmas stuff out. Although there must be something wrong with my calendar because it's telling me it's still AUGUST.

And now I am thinking about the Holidays and what to get for certain, nameless, difficult figures in my life. Let's just say there is an older woman, an older man and a guy just about my age who are always big problems for me to buy for every year.

It's like this. They already have whatever they need and when I ask for ideas, I am told they don't need anything. Of course, this is a big, fat lie. They really do want something. And it needs to be good.

And so, I am thinking watches for everyone! I have checked out casio G-shock.

They have something for the older lady:

The older man:

And the youngish guy:

I had kind of forgotten what a great gift a watch can be. And besides glasses, watches are are the only accessory that's actually useful. (Though one could make an argument for cuff links, too, I guess.)

Blue dial has watches for every use and occasion. Know a sporty executive? Or a trendy cheerleader? A deep sea diver or a school teacher? There is something for everyone. And these are NICE watches. Not something you will find at the local drug store.

Not that I've EVER, EVER gone shopping for watches in a drug store. Well, maybe that one time on Christmas Eve, but I was about to break up with him. That's another post for another time.

BTW, buying these watches now will mean I am an organized, efficient person. That may have been my New Year's Resolution but I'm not sure, I lost the list.

Coupons You Don’t Clip, Sent to Your Cellphone - NYTimes.com

2009-08-29T14:27:00.000-06:00

Coupons You Don’t Clip, Sent to Your Cellphone - NYTimes.com

This is such a great idea for those of you with "fancy phones". I got my G1 in February with gift cards earned from points for using my debit card. I currently use my coupons from my phone and have found some good deals; which incidentally are MUCH more lucrative than newspaper and mailer coupons. Does anyone have any other sources?

ExxonMobil: "Green Company of the Year?" | Mother Jones

2009-08-29T08:25:00.000-06:00

ExxonMobil: "Green Company of the Year?" | Mother Jones

OK this sounds pretty crazy and the thinking here is that Forbes is utilizing a "shock-jock" mentality by making such a controversial claim. It seems that ExxonMobil may be making up for lost time by going to natural gas production, and going forward, that may be "helpful". But it could also be considered too little too late.

And let us not forget the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, which has caused an unthinkable amount of environmental damage. So, the question is, do we give ExxonMobil the benefit of the doubt as if they are doing pennance for past deeds and at least trying? Or is this just another publicity stunt to benefit both ExxonMobil and Forbes?

I guess it really boils down to the answer to this question: with this on its cover, will you buy Forbes?

Top tips for the recently unemployed

2009-08-27T18:24:00.000-06:00

The Unemployment Olympics

My household has dealt with unemployment for almost 14 months.

There I said it, er wrote it. And, I have to say that I may look back on this time in my life and feel I really learned a lot. However, most likely, I will look back and think boy did that suck.

Whew! That feels good to have gotten off my chest. Which brings me to the first of my top tips for the recently unemployed.

1. Try not to freak out.
Freaking out will not help. Trust me on this. Take a deep breath (or fifty). It's going to be OK.

2. Accept that short term planning may be all you can do right now.
This may be a short term thing or a long term thing, it's impossible to know. The one thing you can plan on is today and maybe tomorrow. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. Have you heard of the phrase "Take it one day at a time."? Try to live by that and you'll realize you can handle whatever happens each day.

3. Get it together.
Educate yourself. You have choices. Contact the unemployment office for a quote of your entitlements. Discover if you will qualify for food assistance, rent assistance, etc. Consider your richest relative; now may be the time to seek them out. I'm not kidding, here. These are desperate times and that does call for desperate measures.

4. You're not alone, so don't live that way.
Find a support group, online forum, or career counselor. The more support you can get, the better prepared you will be for the adventure of job searching! You will need to vent about all this stuff you are going through. Your spouse will want you out their hair. It's win-win.

Superheros aren't the only ones looking for a job these days.

5. Structure your days.
OK, I know it is tempting to catch up on sleep and just "hang out" until something magically comes up, however, it's really important for your mental health that you do something productive each and every day. Try cleaning, painting, going to the library or outdoor projects. Keep structured and keep busy.

6. Deal with less money.
OK, here is a great way to reframe your sudden poverty. It's called going green! Yes, going green can save you BIG money and joblessness is a great excuse to save humankind.

Go Green to Save Green

The above tips have helped me and my family keep our sanity. I know (because I've followed my own tips) that Number 1 is really the most important, so I'll repeat it again.

Freaking out will not help. Trust me on this. Take a deep breath (or fifty). It's going to be OK.

(Photo credits: clementine gallot, steve p2008, ewen and donabel)

Have a Fun Wednesday!

2009-08-26T19:12:00.002-06:00

# Sirena_Varada #

5 tips to help your child have a great school year

2009-08-24T16:55:00.000-06:00

jaqian

It's back to school time! Time for kids to catch the bus, and time for us parents to get back into a routine. Of course, it's also time for us to start worrying.

We will worry about our child's friends, our child's relationship with their teacher, our child's academic progress, and, we will worry about how we will get all that homework done.

Well, to that I have good news and bad news. Which would you like first?

How about we get the bad news over with: the truth is, when one of the above issues is just a little bit off, it can really affect our child's school year. If there are issues with friends, our child can be distracted and unhappy.

If (good forbid) our child's teacher isn't as smitten with our little darling as we are, our child could have a tricky year. If our child is not making adequate academic progress, then we are perhaps in for a multitude of meetings at a big table with school "experts".

And finally, if we, the parents, haven't got good organization and time management skills, then that homework may not get done properly or consistently.

OK, here is the good news: we can do things to put the odds in our child's favor. Below I have put together 5 tips to help your child have a great school year.

freeparking

1. Your child's friends
OK. We can't be with our kids 100% of the time. But we can try and supervise whenever possible. If our child is on team sports, we can try to observe his/her interaction with teammates as much as possible. We should volunteer at school as often as possible. This will give us a lot of information about the classroom environment.

Chicago 2016 Photos

2. The Teacher
OK. I am going to be really blunt here. Don't make the teacher mad. We need to remember and our child needs to understand that the teacher is to be respected. Teachers like respect.

Second, contrary to what they say, teachers do like presents, flowers and gift cards. But, mostly, they like hand drawn pictures and handwritten notes and poems, especially from the kids.

Lastly, and I can't emphasize this enough, teachers like and need help! Offer to help the teacher yourself. Even if us working parents can only offer to cut out laminating at home, teachers really like help.

3. Academics
If there are concerns about our child's academics, we need to collect evidence, uh, I mean facts. Keep any and all work, tests, and projects that cause you concern. We don't want the teacher to think we don't think she's doing her job.

Schedule a meeting with the teacher, around his or her schedule. Be specific about your concerns and listen to the teacher's plan. Give it some time to work before asking for a support team meeting.

4. Homework
This one is really simple but sometimes not easy. Just do it. If it's a battle, talk to the teacher about reducing the amount, having your child come in early, or just letting natural consequences happen.

apdk

5. School Phobia/Anxiety
If this is happening, we need to meet with the teacher and principal as early as possible. Problem solve this issue as a team and come up with a plan. Make sure you are all in agreement or your child will sense discontent.

There you have it. Five tips to help you help your child achieve success in school. I'd love to add to this list. Please comment below and I'll add your tips!

Green College Slideshow | Mother Jones

2009-08-20T17:19:00.000-06:00

Green College Slideshow | Mother Jones

This is a very interesting look at the potential for going green across our college campuses. It also speaks to the possibilities for going green in all public buildings.

Saving Money Carnival!

2009-08-19T16:11:00.003-06:00

alamosbasement

I appear today over at Savings with Sadie for her 2nd edition of the Carnival of Savings. There are 14 other great links to help you save money, just in time for the money pit back-to-school can be. Check it out!

Back to School

2009-08-19T13:15:00.003-06:00

Avolore

Jeana Lee Tahnk: Am I Doing This Parenting Thing Right?

2009-08-19T12:51:00.001-06:00

Jeana Lee Tahnk: Am I Doing This Parenting Thing Right?

By the time you really learn how to do motherhood and are getting it right consistently, it's over; they turn 18 and move out. Ah, what a gig it is!

Important Facts You Never Knew about Asbestos

2009-08-17T19:34:00.006-06:00

The following is a Guest Post from Barbara O'Brien, of The MahaBlog, Crooks and Liars, and Alternet:

“Is There Asbestos in My Home?”

The short answer to the question, “Is there asbestos in my home?” is “Yes, probably.” How much, where, and whether you should worry, depends mostly on when your home was built and what condition it is in.

In the U.S., if your home was built after the mid-1990s there might be asbestos in roof shingles, floor tiles, cement pipes and boards, caulking compounds, and joint cements. However, this is not necessarily something to worry about.

Asbestos is a mineral that breaks into small fibers. The fibers are dangerous to breathe, because if they settle in the lungs they can cause mesothelioma, a deadly lung cancer, and asbestosis, a debilitating disease that interferes with breathing. You should also avoid ingesting asbestos. However, as long as the asbestos fibers are encased in something so that the fibers can’t be breathed, or get into your water — generally the case with newer construction materials — you can safely leave it where it is.

ktheory

Insulation in Home Built Before the mid-1990s

Homes built between 1920 and 1950 may have asbestos insulation. Also, be aware that homes built after 1950, and possibly as recently as the mid-1990s, may contain an insulation called Zonolite made of vermiculite contaminated with asbestos. The vermiculite came from a mine in Libby, Montana, a community so contaminated with asbestos the EPA recently declared Libby to be a public health disaster.

As long as the insulation is enclosed in a wall where fibers cannot escape, it is not hazardous. However, if walls are damaged, or if your remodeling plans involve cutting into a wall, you must arrange for state-certified asbestos abatement specialists to deal with the insulation. They may either remove it or find some way to contain it. But do not handle the insulation yourself.

Asbestos in Homes Built Before 1980

Here are just some of the other places you might find asbestos in an older home:

Shingles and walls. From the 1920s and until 1978 asbestos cement shingles were a popular choice for housing exteriors. Also until the 1970s, cement sheet, millboard, and paper with a high asbestos content were used around fireplaces and wood burning stoves. Cutting or drilling these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air you breathe.

Soundproofing. Until the 1970s, soundproofing material containing asbestos was sprayed on walls and ceilings. Asbestos also was used in textured paint and patching compounds until 1977. The asbestos in these applications can become loose and release asbestos into the air, if they haven’t already.

Hot water and steam pipes. These may be coated with asbestos or wrapped with asbestos tape.

Oil and coal furnaces and door gaskets. Replacing an old basement furnace in your home can create an asbestos hazard.

vinzcha

Inspection and Abatement

At this point, you may be worried about the cracks, chips, and flaking in your older home. It cannot be stressed enough that if asbestos really is present, you need professional help to deal with it. Deal only with asbestos inspectors and asbestos abatement contractors that are licensed by your state.

The first step is assessing whether there really is an asbestos danger in your home. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you hire an inspector who is independent from any abatement contractor you might use to avoid a conflict of interest.

Even if there is asbestos in your home, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to have it all removed immediately. If the asbestos is in a place where it won’t get into the air or water, it may be left alone. But be aware that renovations or damage to your home might release the asbestos, and then you must call in an asbestos abatement contractor. Don’t try to deal with it yourself.

-Barbara O’ Brien

a great way to save on skin care products

2009-08-14T12:08:00.009-06:00

I'd like to think I take pretty good care of my skin.

I try to minimize stress lines and have been practicing meditation for 20 minutes a day, on average, for over a year. I practice yoga regularly and jog a few miles several times a week.

To keep my skin hydrated, I drink plenty of water. I also have an iron-clad skin care regime, which includes daily sun block.

And yet...I still break out and have these wrinkles! So, I try products here and there, without actually having any objective reason to feel they are successful, except that it says will help on the bottle or tube. But it usually ends up being a waste of money and time.

HOWEVER, I have found a useful website. It's called Skin Analysis. And I think they are going to save me both money and grief.

You see, they give free skin analysis. You just have to send them a pic of your skin; a close up of the problem area and in a few days they get back to you with a FREE analysis. Isn't that cool?

There are also reviews upon reviews with opinions of the products from people who have tried them. They review eye cream and wrinkle cream among other products.

What I especially like about this site is that is it a non-affiliate site. The folks who review products are average Janes, just like you and me. They do NOT get paid for their reviews and there are no affiliate links from Skin Analysis to any product website.

So, in essence it's like getting a recommendation from your BFF about something that really works to help you look better, feel better and love your nontoxic life.

I'd love to hear comments from anyone who has tried Skin Analysis!

Note: this has been a paid post.

Back to School on the Cheap

2009-08-13T22:21:00.004-06:00

dave_mcmt

Back to school is an exciting time for everyone, but it can also be rushed and chaotic if you don't plan ahead a bit.

There are many things you will need to purchase.

Here is a list of things you might need and how to save BIG on them:

Clothes and Shoes

online coupon codes, clearance-Repeat after me: "I will never buy anything online without first searching for a coupon code." Coupon codes can, at the very least, save you shipping and may even get you a dollar or percentage off, even on items already on clearance.

Speaking of clearance, always be thinking ahead to the next 2 months and the next year. Things that are on clearance now, include summer clothes , which, in many parts of the country can be used for the next 2 months. So, buy some things in your kid's current sizes. But also buy a few things in your kid's next sizes for next summer. I especially buy shoes this way as it is hard to find used shoes anywhere.

name brands/trendy styles-That trendy part of me from high school still loves name brands. However, I now only buy them on clearance or if I really must have it, on sale with a coupon code. Now, for my kids, I generally stay away from name brands because they outgrow things before they wear out. However, when that ceases to be true, I will shop around for name brands and ALWAYS use a coupon code. For the trendy kids, I will probably a few anchor pieces in my kid's wardrobe to be name brands/trendy and supplement with store house brands and basic items like jeans and black T-shirts.

hand me downs-I love hand me downs!! Try to find someone with kid's slightly older than yours. Let them know you'd love to take outgrown clothes off their hands, whenever they are ready. Many times people really would like to find a good home for their kid's outgrown clothes, instead of donating them.

goodwill/thrift/garage sales-Always a great place to find deals on kid's clothes and sometimes shoes. Generally, goodwill stores have a high turnover rate of clothes. Talk to the manager at your local store and s/he can tell you when they put out the most new goods. Same is true with local thrift stores. Garage Sales can be hit or miss, but to minimize time wasted, check the paper and go for anything marked "kid's stuff".

back_garage

Backpacks/lunchboxes

Shop around. And around. And around. Many places are having back to school sales and there are good deals out there.

Avoid "character" backpacks. They are generally smaller and not as well made. Also there is no guarantee your darling will still like Dora next year.

Make sure the style and options will be usable in the future. For example, for a kindergartner, buy a backpack with the lunch box as they will probably need it next year.

joebeone

School supplies

First thing, check the dollar store for school supplies, you may be able to get a lot of what you need there.

Buy school supplies in bulk whenever possible. I would even go in with a neighbor or friend, if possible.

If you can wait until the September-October school supply clearance sales, wait.

Don't forget to hit drug store sales for back to school supplies; they usually have great deals and good coupons, too.

Search the Internet for printable back to school coupons, you may discover a few great deals on things that are already on sale now.

Communication can save you BIG

Contact the school(s) to see if the kids need anything special for gym class, art class, etc., so you are not caught off guard when your little one tells you she needs an art smock "tomorrow" when it's 9pm.

Many schools will sell you a complete package of back to school supplies for a flat rate. This may be a good deal and will start your child off with the same exact supplies everyone else has. Believe it or not, this is a big deal to some kids. In addition, the price of the supplies may benefit your local PTA, which is a great cause.

Electronics

Yikes! Try not to freak out when you see the prices of some of things your kids need. Instead, calmly compare the sales online to save time. You will find some deals, especially if you educate yourself about memory and processor speed. The same is true for cell phones and cameras.

Consider buying refurbished with a guarantee. This may be a great way to save money, especially since electronic items frequently become obsolete so quickly.

If you have good credit, 0% interest deals may work for you.

Try buying used from a smaller computer store.

Haircuts

It's amazing to me what they will charge for a kid's haircut! However, have no fear, coupons are everywhere this time of year.

The cheapest way is to cut the hair yourself. There are instructions for boys haircuts when you buy a buzzer/trimmer.

For girls, try learning how to give a layered haircut and how to trim bangs. You'll save a fortune!

Another option is to find a good stylist who will do haircuts for your family and friends at home. Many times, they will charge a fraction of their regular price if you supply the location. They may even be able to give you those highlights you've always wanted on the cheap!

~ Kevin McGrew ~

General Tips

If you can be disciplined, get a few department store credit cards. The bigger stores usually run special sales, including cash back sales, for their credit card holders. But in order to feel the savings, you must pay it off completely each month.
Only buy what you went in the store for!! Do not succumb to in-store marketing unless it is a major deal, or you will undo any savings you just got.
Try things on you and your kids in the store, if possible. Many people get home with something only to find it doesn't fit or is damaged in some way. Those items may or may not ever get returned. Learn from me: I have actually had to tear tags off clothing before donating it. Though I did get a tax break for the donation, I still came out behind.

I hope you have found some good ideas here at your nontoxic life to save money on back to school. I'd also love to hear your best tips on saving at this time of year! Please comment below!

Beautiful Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-12T00:45:00.000-06:00

Hamed Saber

A Closer Look at Quality Sleep

2009-08-09T19:36:00.001-06:00

Deborah Rozman Ph.D.: Why You Can't Sleep at Night and What You Can Do About It

Apparently we can blame some of our sleep trouble on our heart rhythm. When we are stressed, our heart beats irregularly, but the heart needs a nice, even beat for us to feel relaxed enough to get a good night's sleep.

There are some great "right now, today" tips here, including links for a FREE e-book download and a FREE webinar download.

geocaching, cheap fun or waste of gas?

2009-08-06T21:38:00.004-06:00

respres

I recently had my first taste of a geocaching adventure. We looked up coordinates on the Internet, piled into the car and got down to "treasure hunting".

After 30 minutes and three turnarounds, we found the area in which the coordinates and the treasure were hiding. We walked around for a few minutes and one of the kids found it!

l uis perez

The "treasure" was a tin full of coins and small trinkets. There was also a ledger. We selected a small bead and added our name and the date to the ledger. We also left behind a quarter as our contribution.

Then, it was off to find a restroom. After that we headed home for lunch. We headed back out in the afternoon, in the opposite direction, with a different set of coordinates, which were more difficult to find.

Finally, after about 45 minutes in the car and 5 turnarounds, we pulled over and found the treasure right away: a plastic bin with photos of people in it, among other things. Since we had read ahead of time to bring a pic to this one, we added one of our neighbor's dog, then took a picture of ourselves, holding the bin.

viZZZual.com

By then the bugs were beginning to come out and rain was threatening, so we headed back.

All in all it wasn't a bad time, but I couldn't help but think of the gas we used on our little adventure. On the other hand, the kids LOVED it and kept talking about the treasure hunt the rest of the day.

However, I am not one to just do things because the kids love it. There needs to be something else in it that's beneficial, like physical exercise, good nutrition, cooperative skill building or education.

As well, we spent a few hours in the car, unable to make too much eye contact, is that really family bonding?

I don't know--I'm leaning toward this not being something we do in a car. Maybe if I hid a treasure at the local park, then let the kids find it, it would be better, and serve another purpose?

Where do you stand on geocaching? Family treasure hunting fun or another example of indifference to the oil crisis?

.schill

PLEASE give me your $.02 on this one! I need to figure out if we'll do this again.

How to find $100 to reduce our climate impact

2009-08-06T12:51:00.003-06:00

Environmental News Network:

Environmental News Network is reporting that climate legislation would only cost $100 for an average family per year.

Now, personally, I don't really have $100 laying around right now, but over the course of a year, I could find it. I think this cause is worth it.

How to find the $100:

In order to "find" the money to cover it, I will work on lowering my utility costs by $8.33 a calendar month.

hot water heater blanket (estimated average yearly savings at least $25.00)

water usage: fixing a dripping faucet, getting family to use less water (estimated average yearly savings $20)

air conditioning: insulated curtains on the east side of my house (estimated yearly savings $25)

electricity: using a green power strip on TV, Cable, DVD, VCR (estimated yearly savings $25)

cable (my least favorite utility) canceling the $5 kid's channels (sorry, guys, we'll use the bizillion DVD's we have) (average yearly savings: $60)

OK! With $55 dollars extra saved. Hmmm, maybe that means I can buy new shoes this year!

(photo credit: azrainman)

wordless wednesday

2009-08-04T17:25:00.001-06:00

paparutzi

Acai Berry Supplement Review

2009-08-04T13:39:00.005-06:00

Has anyone thought about trying Acai Berry to lose weight? I found a site that has reviewed the top three supplements and has links for FREE trials of each. Click here to visit. Let me know what you think!

gurucrusher

time vs. money?

2009-08-04T13:26:00.005-06:00

Time- well there is never enough of it. And we can never get back what we've lost.
Of course working, uses our time so we can earn money.

Money- is more short term-sort of. We need it mostly right now, and always try to earn back what we've spent. And when we din;t have enought money it;s a right NOw isituaion. So, some are willing to give up som time to save some money.

Time & Money are inextricabley linked. We use our time to earn money. We can spend a ton of money in seconds. We can spend a ton of time on something that earns pennies.

The bully who defined me | PhD in Parenting

2009-08-03T08:59:00.002-06:00

The bully who defined me | PhD in Parenting

This is such a heart wrenching story from Annie, PhD in Parenting, about her experiences with bullying for many years. I am curious about your experiences with bullying, too and I have the same questions for you that I asked of Annie.
What could've made the difference? Teachers doing something? Parents? Please comment below.

Does Your Car Qualify for the Federal 'Cash for Clunker' Program? : Planet Green

2009-08-02T19:13:00.001-06:00

Does Your Car Qualify for the Federal 'Cash for Clunker' Program? : Planet Green

This is a great deal for someone looking to buy a car. You can get $4,500 if your car qualifies. Since, IMHO, dealers usually see (read: hear) these cars coming and offer about $1,500 at most, this could make the difference between a new car and a life continuing with a clunker.

Tired? 7 quick tips to get more energy right now, today

2009-07-31T18:43:00.010-06:00

These days, it seems, everyone is so tired. I see yawning all day long from my co-workers. People space out at meetings. Maybe it's because they are excruciatingly boring? Don't get me started.

And let's not forget the adult ADD symptoms. Um, what were we talking about? Oh, yeah. Energy.

I have noticed my own energy seems to wane in the afternoon, especially between 2-4pm. Sometimes, I am SO lethargic, I can barely do any work. However, I have found 7 ways to wake myself up. They really work.

1. Take a walk
This is a life-saver. During that 2-4 sleepy-time I have every afternoon, I get up and walk around my building at least every 20-30 minutes. It only takes a few minutes and really helps. On the weekends, I try to walk outside.

I actually think walking outside helps wake me up even more. Maybe my grandma was right about fresh air. Of course, any regular exercise done at any time during the day can energize someone for hours.

2. Do something offline : )
OK, maybe not RIGHT now, but later after you finish reading this post. Sometimes, my eyes fatigue after a few hours on the computer and I find taking a break from "screen time" really helps.

f10n4

3. Caffeine
OK. Officially, I am off the caffeine, however... I do like a bit of dark chocolate during my tired time every pm. I'm not sure how much it helps my energy levels, but it sure is divine.

Joi

4. Get more sleep
Apparently, we are a sleep deprived society. And that kind of fatigue causes attention span issues AND carbohydrate binges. I know I tend to snack more when I am tired.

5. Eat less simple carbs
I have noted that I get that I crash much more in the afternoons following a nice sugary treat after lunch. So, I try to keep lunch as light as possible, while still really healthy.

6. See your doctor
This is really important. Sometimes there is a medical reason we feel tired. I, myself, keep an eye on three things via doctor's visits and blood work: Thyroid, Insulin Resistance and (OMG) menopause. Someday the fatigue I feel may be better accounted for due to medical reasons.

atomicjeep

7. Lose weight
Ever see those weight loss commercials? The (newly) skinny people always say, I've got so much energy! This may actually be the only true part of those commercials. Carrying around too much weight can sap your energy like nothing else. OK, disclaimer time--see your doctor if you want to lose weight so she can bless your weight loss plan.

wordless wednesday

2009-07-29T15:22:00.002-06:00

a vegetable garden by Joe Shlabotnik

my take on Blogher '09

2009-07-26T18:32:00.012-06:00

I went. I networked. I learned.

I attended the session on Friday and went to some great panels.

The opening address was informative! Shout out to all the cool bloggers I met at speed dating:
yummymummytips.com
Mariana Perez-buena suerte con su blog nuevo en espanol!
Christy Casimiro
Stacy Digregorio
Leslie Grimmett--following you on twitter!
Kim Moldofsky
mommywantsvodka.com
Leticia Barr
Debbie @ deliciousbaby.com-she brought her 2 month old baby to Blogher! Talk about walking the walk!

Loved the view of the Chicago River!

First panel: Business of You. Informative. Walked away with the concept of valuing my time and charging other's accordingly. Also, NOT charging an hourly fee, but rather a total project cost. I especially liked Rookiemoms questions.

My favorite, favorite session was Room of Your Own: Your Blog is Great, Get People to Know About It. Thanks to Jessica Knows for tweeting me her marketing ebook after the conference!

I also met Lisa Wahrmund of coleyblog.blogspot.com, who saved a spot in line for me so I could get some coffee. Thanks, Lisa.

At the vegetarian lunch, sponsored by Green Works, I met Amy Thompson, who makes her own laundry detergent! Kinda ironic as the lunch was to introduce Clorox's new laundry detergent.

And last, but not least, thanks to the FreshWidow, for keeping me company in the LONGEST line ever and promising to email me her notes from the session on Business of You: Blog to Book.

It was a great time and my goal is BlogHer '10 in NYC or bust!

One Word

2009-07-23T16:55:00.000-06:00

BlogHer '09!!!

my secret big SPLURGE

2009-07-21T09:08:00.006-06:00

Some people, who shall remain nameless, wrinkle their nose at the thrifty things I do. They wonder what the heck do I spend my money on, anyway.

I am going to tell you about my biggest splurge and how I even managed to save money with it!

I have found that I tend to tense my shoulders up, like all the time.

So, if you're going to BlogHer this Friday and you see someone walking around with their shoulders up to their ears, that's me. I really do notice myself doing this very often. Even as I write this, I am doing it. Down shoulders, down!

Besides this being weird, it also has wreaked havoc on my shoulders and back muscles and boy do I pay for it through general soreness, upper back problems and neck strain.

My solution, would be to get a massage every night, but alas, I couldn't find a private masseuse who would come over and do this every night for peanuts.

Instead, I used all that money I have saved and bought a Human Touch Massage Chair.

I just LOVE this thing! I use it nearly every night for 15-30 minutes. It has programmable options for where it hurts, plus a general 15 minute lower back, upper back or full back option. It also has three different programs for my feet or legs. As well, it has a 15 minute stretch that is out of this world!

The gurus at Human Touch researched how to make this all feel, well, human. It does the rolling, kneading, compression and percussion that REAL massage pros do. It also allows you to adjust the intensity, for those of us who like it, ahem, rough.

I justify this as a stress and health related expense. Massages reduce stress, help circulation and beef up your immune system. I also find the feeling of kneading to relax the heck out of me, too, so I can sleep better.

I actually saved money on this over paying for massages. I figured if I had a massage every week, this chair paid for itself in less than a year. I can't say enough about this chair, worth more than what I paid!

Anyone else want to confess, I mean share, their secret splurge?

my 12 deepest, darkest secrets to saving money

2009-07-20T21:09:00.008-06:00

AMagill

Here is a list of all I can think of that I do to save money. You may not agree with all I do. But this is how I make ends meet in this economy.

I'll show you mine, if you show me yours. How do you save money?

1. Online Coupon Code Obsession
Ever since I discovered coupon codes, I will not buy ANYTHING online without a quick search. I am OBSESSED with these codes because they really save me big dollars. Generally I never pay shipping and usually get a % off or $ off code as well. Try these sites for codes for your favorite stores:
Coupon Chief
Good Bazaar
Retail Me Not
Average Savings: Free Shipping, 10-30% off

2. Aldi
This is a chain of small grocery stores in 29 of the United States and 18 countries, where you can save 40-50% on your groceries. They mainly carry their House Brand, but occasionally have Special Purchases. This is where I spend the majority of my food budget.
Average Savings: $500/year.

Tjeerd

3. Buy One Get One Free (BOGOF), Especially with Meat
Though I usually do all my food shopping at Aldi, I always browse the ads from the other, more expensive grocers. About once a month one or the other has a Buy One Get One Free Sale. However, I do believe they raise their prices for these events, so I am pretty picky. I usually opt for the whole pieces of meat: roasts, turkey/chicken breast, chops, etc., where I get the biggest bang for my buck.
Average Savings: about 40-50% off.

4. Cashing In On Kid's Presents, Gift Cards
Since my kids were born they have received many, many duplicate gifts or gifts that were the wrong style or size. There have also been things we simply didn't need or want, to be honest. Thankfully most people include a gift receipt these days. So, I do not hesitate to return many of these gifts for gift cards or store credit. My kids also get cash and gift cards as gifts, too.

I put the cash in an envelope and over time, buy the gift cards to be used for household purposes. I keep track of each transaction on the envelope and eventually my kids have a lot of cash. This is also a great learning experience for my kids as we talk about their "savings envelopes" often. I use this cash for BIG ticket items my kids want, but we can't afford. Recently, this money paid for 1/2 of a beautiful swing set! Now we are saving up for a Wii system.
Average Savings: $200/year.

robinsonsmay

5. DIY
Anything service people can do, I can do better! Well, not better, but definitely cheaper! I ALWAYS check my bookshelf and search engine (try swagbucks) for ideas on "How to..." do anything.

When the fridge leaked water all over
When the washing machine quit
When the garage door wouldn't open
When the (gasp) computer wouldn't let me get online

These issues all occurred in the last 4 months. (Yes, I have had some bad luck). Out of these four potential disasters we managed to fix it all ourselves. My favorite websites for DIY repairs are:
The Samurai Appliance Guru, Repair 2000, and The Natural Handyman. (Thanks, Maggie May).
Average Savings: $200+ in service calls.

6. Make it Myself
I always try to make it myself, if I can. I make all my own cleaners, and baby wipes. I make my own concoction of:

Hand soap : Clorox Natural Dish Soap, diluted 60/40 with water
Shampoo: Baby Shampoo, diluted 60/40 with water and 10 drops tea tree oil
Honey face mask: warm for 5 seconds in microwave and smear on face. Leave on 15 minutes. Results: less oily and softer skin
Instead of Nose Strips: I packet Gelatin, with 1 1/2 TBSP milk, warm in microwave for 10-15 seconds and apply to T-Zone. Leave on 15-30 minutes until dry. Will peel off and take hair with it, so be cautious where you use it. Results: minimizes pores.
I make dinners in bulk and then freeze them for future use. I especially like to make freeze chimichangas. They are easy to cook from frozen and so good!
Acne: Ugh. Try using tea tree oil dabbed right on the blemishes.

Average Savings: $300-$600+/per year.

7. Frozen Milk
See my post on how freezing milk saves me BIG.

8. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is seriously my new favorite website. It's a lot of money saving, plus a little treasure hunting. You sign up and use them for searches, which are powered by Ask and Google. Every third search or so, you earn 1-5 swagbucks. You can also subscribe to their Twitter feed and they will tell how to get a "code" to enter in their homepage,which will also get you a Swagbuck. I just earned 45 bucks in 5 weeks of casual use and turned that into a $5 Amazon gift card. How fun! Sign up here.
Average Savings: $5 and counting!

9. Websites and Forums
My favorite money saving websites and forums:

Average Savings: $100 so far this summer!

10. Never Carry Cash
When I quit smoking, I realized how the cash I carried lasted me so much longer. However, when I had kids, the opposite occurred. Any cash I now have on my person, is like gone, in a flash and I couldn't tell you where it went.

I now have a credit/debit card from my bank and I use it for EVERYTHING, even amounts less than $5 (though there are few of those these days). My bank offers me points that add up to $20 in free gift cards every three months.
Average savings: $80-$100/year.

11. Garage sales/Goodwill/Clearance/Generics
I really only spend money on something if it's from a discount store, on sale or clearance, at a garage sale, or maybe goodwill.

Garage Sales-I keep a running wish list of used things I'd like for a bargain. Examples include: an extra dresser, lanterns, night stand and clothes for my oldest.
Good Will- I love buying clothes, jeans especially at good will. They sometimes also have clothes for my kids and occasional furniture I can refinish or paint. And all for a great cause.
Sale or clearance- I *heart* sales, especially end-of-season clearance. Find out when the Kmart near you does their $1.99 on apparel sale, I believe it's twice a year and well worth a trip, even if things are already picked over. I found pajamas, work slacks, underwear for my kid and a bra for me. All $1.99 each. Really.
Discount store- shop early and often to get the best deals. When discount stores have clearance, you can bet you're getting the best deal out there.
Generics or House Brands- I will buy just about anything in the generic form (prescriptions, napkins, paper towels, food, coffee, wrinkle cream (not that I have wrinkles or anything), lotion, etc.

Average Savings: $100-$300/year.

12. Lowering Utilities
This is easier than you think. Electric and Gas companies sometimes offer you a guide to variable rates. If you sign up, you can choose when to run your biggest energy appliances, like dishwasher, washer/dryer and the air conditioner. In addition, invest in a power strip to use on your TV/DVD/cable box center. Turn off EVERYTHING when you go to bed. You can also turn off your hot water heater (covered in an insulation blanket) when you go away on vacation. Replace all those regular bulbs with CFL bulbs. Install a digital thermometer so you can control the temperature. If you really want to get fancy, install ceiling fans, and reuse your grey water from the washer to water plants.
Average Savings: $600+/year.

bkusler

Now that you've seen my list, tell me: What do you secretly (or not so secretly) do to save money?

7 great links to go green, right now, today

2009-07-16T22:23:00.002-06:00

foxspain

There is a lot of information out there on going green. I constantly see articles on solar turbine, alternative energy usage and reducing what we consume.

It can kinda get a girl all overwhelmed AND stressed. I mean the problem is so big, where can one start? I have been thinking about the average person. The average Jane. The average Jane who currently has said, "forget it" to going green because there's just too much to do and too little time to do it.

Well, I am here to break it down into some simple things that you, the average Jane or the average Joe can do right now, today to help save human kind. Really.

Pink Sherbet Photography

1. Rinse With Hydrogen Peroxide For White Teeth And Healthy Mouth-this article gives you some very practical advice on what you can do with hydrogen peroxide, that which many of you already have in your medicine cabinet. He also mentions it can be a great rinse for fruit!

2. Things You Can Do Today To Help Save the Environment Sound familiar--ah, a post after my own heart!

3. Little Things You Can Do To Save The World This is from puttles. Jump in!

4. Tips In Going Green Today Or At Least Save Some Money These are simple, quick and highly effective!

ChurchHatesTucker

5. This is a video on how to save on scratch paper. Interesting!

6. Here are some sensible ways to Go Green from Mama Does Good. Check her out, she really does do good!

7. This are some basic ways to go green today from Bizymoms.com

So, here you go. 7 links to help the average Joe or average Jane go green, right now, today!

Did I miss any great links out there? Comment below!

how to find the right satellite TV provider

2009-07-15T16:53:00.005-06:00

Those of you who read your nontoxic life regularly know I have cable tv company issues. In fact, I have changed companies and am still having issues. I get offers from satellite tv companies all the time, but I have no idea which company has the best customer service, which has the best deals and which has the best reception. Also what the heck is the difference between direct vs. dish?

However, I have found a company called Kaptain Satellite and they helped me figure things out.

Their site gave me the facts about direct vs. dish and showed me a side by side comparison that actually made sense! They also showed me the best deals for where I live.

Best part, they are not at all annoying like the cable people!

If you have had it with cable, check them out. Let me know what you think.

let's recycle this wordless wednesday

2009-07-14T22:53:00.002-06:00

Rex Roof

eyeglasses for $8

2009-07-12T12:31:00.006-06:00

It is the summer and many folks in my state are now required to take their school aged children to the eye doctor.

To those of us on a budget, this strikes fear. I mean glasses and kids don't mix, right? They are expensive, and frequently get broken or lost.

Many parents ask of this new law: is it really about the kids or did the eye doctors lobby?

Well, politics aside, kids do need their eyes to be in tip-top condition in order to do well in school. Eyesight affects reading, math, following written instructions on the board, eye-hand coordination, and social skills. I can't tell you how many of my colleagues have mentioned a child struggling in school made a complete turn-around once they got glasses.

But back to the cost: it's prohibitive. Vision insurance is a joke. It's not really insurance, it's a small discount off the HUGE marked up prices in eye doctor's offices.

But I have found Zenni Optical and let me tell you, they are a godsend. I have spent hundreds of dollars on prescription eyeglasses and am always holding my breath for when that pair breaks or gets lost. But Zenni is an online store where you can get prescription eyeglasses for as little as $8!! NO KIDDING!

What's the catch? You do need a valid prescription with the "pupilary distance", which means the distance between your pupils. Your eye doctor may not put this on the prescription, so just make sure you ask or call for that number before you order your glasses.

But otherwise no catch. Check out these cute glasses for a little boy:

These are just USD $12.95 plus $4.95 shipping! I am serious. Please let me know what you think or if you've tried Zenni. With this economy, they have my business!

Note: this is a paid post, please see my disclosure policy below if you have questions about that.

do you know exactly what time it is?

2009-07-10T15:45:00.001-06:00

alexkerhead

It seems while I was in school and working 3 part times jobs, I always wore a watch. I really needed to always know what time it was and where I needed to be. However, even on the rare day off, I needed to wear it.

People depended on me. I had one friend who didn't even own a watch and when we were out, it was a regular question. And I was more than fine with that. I needed to know what time it was now, how much time until I had to stop what I was doing. How much time I had until work started or ended. How long the class I was in was supposed to last. I was like addicted to knowing exactly what time it was, all the day long.

Eventually, after finished grad school and an additional certificate, I began my career. It was weird only having one place to be at each day and having weekends off. I was thrown off and kept forgetting to wear my watch.

The first day I realized and panicked! How would I know when I had to be at that meeting? How would I know when lunch was over? How much longer until I could go home?

But it went OK. I learned to use something called a clock.

I discovered they are just about everywhere. I also learned my cell phone had one, my laptop had one and my car had one.

Pretty soon, I began letting my watches' batteries run out. Eventually, I stopped wearing them altogether.

jurvetson

Now I have been officially watch free for over 5 years and loving it! There are times I actually don't want to know the time because I have discovered a watched clock ticks a lot. Time goes by at that same pace: tick...tick...tick, when I "watch" it.

But when I don't watch the clock, I feel free, unencumbered and time goes by so much faster. I can focus on where I am and what I am doing. There is nothing holding me back.

How about you? What time is it? Watch, clock or maybe sundial?

take care on this wordless wednesday

2009-07-08T08:26:00.003-06:00

pattista

burned out? 7 quick tips to customize your life

2009-07-06T23:28:00.002-06:00

pvera

So, Alec Baldwin is considering getting into politics! He may run against Joe Lieberman. Changing careers at his age is very common.

As I approach middle age (yikes!), I am noticing similar things happening to me and my friends. Some have changed careers, some are getting divorced and some are questioning everything they stand for.

I feel like I am in a constant state of improvement, myself. I try to learn all I can on living a better, healthier life and apply things as I learn them.

One theme among my friends is not hopeful improvement, however, it's burnout.

Many of the changes being made by people is a result of not feeling something for their current situation, be it a job or marriage. They are lacking the passion they once had for things and asking those existential questions:

How did this become my life? Is this all there is for me?

Some say these are dangerous questions to ask. I can sort of see their point. The answers to those questions can lead a man or woman to leave their family. Those answers can hurt the people around the questioner, those people who thought they had their life planned out and knew what to expect, only to have it turned upside down thanks to someone who seemed to suddenly be so unsatisfied.

On the other hand, the answers to those questions can be very liberating! Those answers can lead to new endeavors and an enriched life. After all, we are here for a very limited amount of time (as far an anyone knows for sure).

I think the most dangerous thing about these questions is if they are asked of oneself only once in a lifetime. I am in a constant state of self-improvement, but I am also constantly asking myself those questions as I go and have been for years.

If you do find yourself feeling a bit dispassionate or burned out, I have come up with 7 quick tips to help customize your life--make your "cookie cutter" life more of your own.

Hobbies

These include the basics: gardening, collections, car tinkering, and crafts. But also consider genealogy. Sometimes looked at where we come from can connect us to the present in a new and spirited way. Another great hobby to consider is photography. Here is a great link for those looking to improve their skills. Whatever hobby you choose, make it something you can feel passionate about! This will help make your life seem more worthwhile and more about you.

Special Interests, Charities and Causes

This can really light a fire under people. Think of a greater need than your own and then put some effort into it. Think awareness, research and fund raising. Many famous people do this and I suspect it's their way of taking control of their lives and giving themselves a legacy beyond acting or sports.

Socializing

There is a lot of new social media out there: twitter, facebook, my space, yahoo, stumbleupon, etc. They can be great ways to keep in touch with your current friends, reconnect to old (think grammar school) friends as well as meet new people with similar interests. There is no end to how many people you can connect with. You can even follow me on twitter!

Trips

Sometimes the act of physically seeing that there is more to life beyond your little world can really change a person's perspective. If finances are tight, consider a short trip to a ethnic museum or festival near where you live.

cliff1066

Image, Looks

Generally speaking, this is the one area in which we have the most freedom. Get a new hair cut, color your tresses or get a perm. Wear glasses or switch to contacts. Buy clothes in a different style. You can lose weight or just tone those arms (think Michelle Obama).

foxypar4

Health

This can take the shape of diet or exercise. Even if you are already in pretty good shape, there is always room for improvement. How about learning a new exercise? Yoga, running, kettle ball, weights and in line skating are all great ways to do something we love that will love us back.

Environment

Look around you. Do you see clutter and poor air quality? Dated decorations? What about toxins in the form of household cleaners or pesticides? Try organizing, getting houseplants, rearranging furniture and making your own cleaners. There are even nontoxic alternatives to insecticides.

These tips are especially helpful if you are not looking to make that big change right now. Maybe you are committed to staying at your job or marriage, but are just seeking...something. Take hold of those other parts of your life and individualize them, just for you.

Please comment back on how you customize your own life, I know others would love to hear it (me, too)!

happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T02:06:00.001-06:00

G i O