~Home Economist~

Since becoming a "Home Economist", I have changed many things (rather habits) in order to live more economically. In doing so, we've also tried to preserve the earth and go as "green" as possible on some things that we would not have thought of previously. Listed below are a few things that we do in our home to save money and the environment. Enjoy!

*Use florescent light bulbs

*Use rechargeable batteries (when possible)

*Unplug most all items not in use (t.v. & computer stay plugged in)

*Keep the thermostat at 66 in the winter (yes, it's cold)

*Turn the water off when brushing teeth

*Recycle all paper, junk mail and plastics each week

*Re-use the junk mail envelopes

*Use canvas grocery bags when possible

-Or re-use the plastic grocery bags as trash bags in the bathrooms

*Installed wind turbines on our new home

*Installed solar screens at our previous home (currently checking into it for new home)

*Had "green" carpet installed (environmentally friendly "Eco" carpet)

*Only wash large loads of laundry (if possible)

*Hang dry most clothing

*Recycle all fast food styrofoam cups

*During the summer months, I reuse the bath water to water the trees and flowerbeds (my hubby thinks it is a bit extreme :)

*Fill up the humidifier with the cold water while waiting for the bath water to warm up.

*Use the PUR water filter on the kitchen faucet instead of purchasing bottled water

*Donate to Helping Hands

*Host garage sales

*Shop garage sales for pre-owned toys. (I only buy the large plastic toys that I can disinfect.)

*Try to fill the cars up with gasoline in the early mornings

*Only run large loads in the dishwasher

*Don't throw anything of any value away....Either sell it or donate it!