Lint

Instead of throwing out the dryer lint, I threw it outside for the robins to use to build their nests. Less waste and happy birds.

Reducing Unwanted Mail

It is frustrating to see the amount of unwanted and unsolicited mail that comes to us daily. I found 2 websites listed in O magazine to conquer this problem. The first one enables you to remove your name from catalog mailing lists you don't want(and also to sign up for those you do want). This site is www.dmachoice.org. The other site listed is to have your name removed from a list that the 3 major credit services use to sell to potential credit card companies. Not only will it reduce unwanted mail but it will reduce the potential for identity theft. You can be reinstated at any time you choose. This site is https://www.optoutprescreen.com

We washed windows this weekend and ran out of window cleaner. I found a recipe online for a homemade window cleaner and gave it a try. It worked just as well as the store bought, so I am going to use it all the time. I will keep the store bought spray bottles and just fill them with this recipe. I like it because it is using products that I have on hand for other uses anyway and it actually does the job as well as the store bought. I used equal parts white vinegar and warm water and added rubbing alcohol. I actually tried it without the rubbing alcohol and it cleaned the window, but the alcohol seemed to prevent running. Experiment with the amount of alcohol you like.
I also used newspapers from the recycle bin instead of paper towels(which we have always done). My husband gave me a tip----wipe one side of the window horizontal and the other sided vertical. Then if you see a streak, you will know which side needs the touch up.
We have a family birthday this week, so I am going to keep an eye out for a creative way to wrap the present without having to buy wrapping paper. I will show you the results later this week!

Reuse-Recycle and Reduce

Over the last years, my husband and I have been slowly making a conscious effort to Reuse-Recycle and Reduce. But there is so much more we can do and I have decided to rethink one part of our lifestyle everyday. I have started this blog to show others how easy this is and will share with others, some ideas we are using. I have to dedicate this project to my 87 year old mother, Irene. She is a true "child of the depression" and, much to the consternation of her children, would never throw anything away that could be reused. She composted kitchen waste for her beautiful garden, had a burn pile(probably not so good for the environment) for paper waste and saved everything from peach pits(to be made into wreaths) to plastic bags. She was on the recieving end of a lot of teasing from her family but she was truly ahead of her time. So, here's to you Irene, your efforts did not go un-noticed by your daughter!!