Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Community

  • Eco Friendly Cleaning Products to Keep You Healthy

    Traditional, old-fashioned cleaning supplies are made with excessive packaging, non-essential ingredients like extra water and harmful ingredients. Sure, some of these really clean well but in the end the risks outweigh the benefits. You might end up with a sparkling and shiny countertop, but you could be adding to the nation’s overflowing landfills, poisoning the oceans and making your family sick. Now could be the time to refresh your cleaning routines in a good way. So what kind of eco-friendly cleaning products also keep you healthy?

    Reducing Waste

    One of the easiest ways to cut back on paper towel use is to swap them out for bar towels, a great idea shared by Martha Stewart. Those made from microfiber are highly recommended because they absorb a lot of liquid and are also great for degreasing surfaces, cleaning up bacteria and dusting. They are also good for cleaning windows, drying produce and cleaning off cars and bikes. Once the towel is dirty, simply toss it into the laundry hamper. They are also inexpensive, and you won’t have to shell out so much dough for paper towels.

    Another way to reduce waste is to buy some of the newer cleaning products that are sold in concentrate form. Hand soap is one example – you can purchase one soap dispenser and a set of soap pods. Drop one in, add water and presto – liquid soap. When it runs out, add a new pod and water; no need to buy a new dispenser each time.

    There are also companies that make multi-purpose cleaning concentrates in tablets and other forms that are made from biodegradable ingredients. Look for ones that are fragrance-free or made with plant-based scents or essential oils. If you really want to be eco-friendly, also buy from companies that donate a portion of their profits to environmental nonprofit groups.

    Say Adios to Harsh Chemicals

    When it comes to healthier cleaning practices, simplicity is the way to go. Many of these products are only made with plant-based ingredients and are packaged in refillable containers. Be sure to read those labels, and look for phrases like “sustainably sourced” and “certified non-toxic.”

    If you aren’t sure where to start with switching over to eco-friendly, healthier cleaning, Better Homes & Gardens suggests checking with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s list of “signal words.” The EPA website has an “Environmental Working Group’s Label Decoder” that explains how to read labels and identify more harmful ingredients. Products that contain these can be avoided.

    As an example, the word “antibacterial” on a label means that the product has pesticides in it that kill viruses, molds and bacteria. While this could be effective for eliminating germs, it should be avoided in cleaning products. Enzymes are another watchword, because they are thought to cause respiratory problems and asthma in factory workers who make those products. Another one to look out for is fragrance, which can be produced from chemicals or natural sources. 

    Healthier Cleaning Product Ingredients

    The cleaning products industry does not heavily regulate its ingredients, so consumers have to be educated enough to understand what certain words actually mean. Words like “non-toxic,” “organic” and “natural” are actually used as marketing terms, and should not be given serious consideration when making healthy choices. So instead of simply buying something that is labeled as organic, look for the USDA Organic logo or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s “Certified Organic” logo.

    Green Seal and EcoLogo are two independent agencies that offer independent certifications for eco-friendly cleaning products. They have manufacturers send in data to show product effectiveness, and the agencies ensure that the goods meet the current green standards. Look for these certifications on commercial cleaners, but you can also find them on some household cleaners.

    What About Allergies?

    Eco-friendly cleaning products can be better for your health and the environment, but some can produce allergic reactions. Many green products are made with essential oils that provide pleasing scents, but they are known to trigger allergic reactions in some people. If you want to try a cleaning product made with an essential oil, use it very sparingly at first just in case – and never pour it right onto the skin. People with allergies can stick to fragrance-free cleaners to avoid any problems.

    Speaking of allergic reactions, another way to prevent them is to buy a HEPA vacuum cleaner. Better Homes & Gardens explains that effective HEPA filters can remove about 100% of airborne allergens, as well as the normal debris, dust and dirt. You can find upright, handheld and cordless vacuums with HEPA filters, and rest assured that using them will help you and your family breathe easier.

  • How the Fair Housing Act Helps Build Diverse Communities

    Diversity and inclusion are crucial to success at work and in life. Whether you’re ready to buy, sell, or rent a home, the Fair Housing Act prevents discrimination in the housing process. Discover how this critical Act protects classes of people and helps build diverse communities where people enjoy the best quality of life.

    What is the Fair Housing Act?

    The Fair Housing Act of 1968 was a follow-up to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Fair Housing Act expanded on previous acts to prevent discrimination when people are renting, selling, financing, looking for housing assistance, or participating in housing-related activities. Additional protections exist for people applying for federally-assisted housing. 

    The Act defines federally protected classes to ensure inclusivity and diversity. As a result, nobody can be prohibited from seeking and securing housing in their preferred neighborhood. Additionally, financiers cannot deny funding to people to attempt to keep them out of specific housing.

    Who is Protected Under the Fair Housing Act?

    Diversity starts with neighborhoods that understand who is protected under the Fair Housing Act. The seven protected classes include:

    • Color
    • Race
    • National origin
    • Disability, mental and physical, and housing providers must make reasonable accommodations
    • Religious beliefs
    • Sexuality, including sexual orientation and gender identity
    • Familial status

    The Fair Housing Act applies to most housing. However, limited circumstances may exempt certain owner-occupied buildings with four units or less, single-family homes rented or sold by owners without real estate agents, and housing operated by organizations that limit residency to members.

    What is Housing Discrimination?

    First and foremost, it is illegal to discriminate against any protected classes. But what does that mean when you’re looking for housing or selling a home? Housing providers can’t refuse to rent, sell, negotiate, or make housing available because someone is one of the protected classes. Also, they can’t falsely claim housing is unavailable or express limiting preferences, differing terms, or varying fees.

    Additionally, residents can’t be evicted, harassed, discouraged, or limited because of their personal status. Agents and housing providers must never blockbuster candidates trying to persuade them to move into specific neighborhoods. Plus, all housing candidates must have equal access to financing and home insurance at the same terms.

    Why is Diversity Important?

    Diversity refers to different forms of the housing accommodating all types of people. Mixed housing and populations offer the flexibility to respond to the evolving needs of communities. As a result, homes are available to people of all incomes, ages, and backgrounds through economic and social changes. 

    Besides making housing available to everyone, diversity provides resilience. Biodiversity in our natural environment creates habitats for all living species. Likewise, diversity in communities supports a healthy and happy lifestyle for all people, creating enduring neighborhoods that remain resilient through inevitable changes, such as population growth.

    What are the Benefits of Diverse Communities?

    Diverse neighborhoods offer many benefits to residents. Living in a robust community offers resilience during national and global changes. Additionally, diversity and inclusion are crucial in the workplace and life. Interaction between people encourages open-mindedness in all diverse settings.

    Creating an equal environment also helps prevent future discrimination. When people live where they choose, everyone is happier. Also, diverse communities offer many opportunities to learn about other cultures through everything from community events to dining out at local restaurants. 

    What Can I Do If I Face Housing Discrimination?

    If you feel you faced housing discrimination, document and report the happenings. Agencies to contact about discriminatory acts in the housing process include the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA). 

    Never hesitate to contact the authorities to report discrimination. Remember, it is illegal for housing providers to retaliate or threaten anyone for making a complaint per the Fair Housing Act. Plus, every report supports the development of diverse and inclusive communities that best serve the public’s needs.

    If you are ready to buy, sell, or rent in the current housing market, the Fair Housing Act protects you against discriminatory behavior and actions. When you recognize discrimination, you have to power to end it. The result is diverse communities that respond to the constantly changing needs of their residents – making everyone happier and healthier today and in the future.

  • Ways to Improve Your Sleep

    Getting a good night’s sleep is extremely important for your health and wellbeing. It’s essential that you prioritize your sleep to recharge your mind and body, which results in you functioning properly. Obtaining good Z’s also helps improve your concentration, productivity, and performance, plus it enables the body to stave off illness and heart disease. Use these tips to get a good night’s sleep.

    1. Try to stick to a sleep schedule. Go to sleep at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. The key is consistency.
    2. Did you know the stimulating effects of caffeine can take hours to wear off? If you want to have a quality night’s rest, avoid caffeine and alcohol a few hours before you climb into bed. You might even need to stop drinking caffeine after noon if you’re very sensitive.
    3. Avoid light-emitting screens and blue light exposure before bed. Watching tv might impact your body’s circadian rhythm and trick your brain into thinking it’s daytime. You want your body to produce melatonin at night naturally. You can also look into apps and products such as f.lux or blue-blocking glasses to reduce nighttime blue light exposure.
    4. If you have trouble sleeping, avoid daytime naps since they can confuse your internal clock. If you do nap during the day, make it a short power nap.
    5. Do relaxing things before bed. Don’t watch a thriller movie or read the news before hitting the mattress. Instead, listen to soothing music, take a bath, meditate, or practice deep breathing. Taking a hot bath about two hours before bed can significantly improve overall sleep efficiency. According to Quartz, our body temperature is at its lowest during nighttime, meaning the body temperature needs to lower in order to get good sleep. After a hot bath or shower, your blood flow brings the heat from the core to the surface, which causes a drop in body temperature.
    6. Make sure your room is extremely dark. This sends a signal to your brain that it’s time for sleep.
    7. Keep your room cold, usually around 69° or 70°. If your body temperature is too hot, it can decrease sleep quality.
    8. Train your brain. Negative thoughts about sleep can often worsen insomnia and cause more difficulty sleeping. To avoid triggering your stress response try recognizing the negative thoughts and altering them. Instead of “I must get eight hours of sleep,” try replacing it with “sleep requirements vary from person to person, and I will be okay, and most people don’t need eight hours to function the next day.”
    9. Start your mornings greeting the sun. Within an hour of waking up, try to get 30 minutes of direct sunlight. Considering we are biologically wired to sync up with the sun, being exposed to natural sunlight or bright light during the day helps us get more solid sleep.
    10. People discovered their sleep improved when using weighted blankets. After testing different weights and dimensions, Jennifer Adams, Interior Design Pro, found just the right fit to calm your nervous system and help you sleep better. Experience a sense of peace and cocoon-like sleep at the end of a long day with this Premium Weighted Blanket.

  • Why You Should Keep Learning and Enhance Your Skills

    Learning is an indispensable tool. There are countless advantages to enhancing your skills or learning new things altogether. You can expand your mind, meet people interested in similar topics, and discover something that can drastically improve your day-to-day. You might even alter your view of certain aspects of your life. Uncover several reasons you should keep learning and a few ideas to help get you inspired.   

    1. The most successful people understand they must continue to learn and keep improving to thrive. If you want to grow and flourish, you need to invest in yourself. The more skills you have also make you a more valuable worker. Depending on what classes you take or skills you acquire, you might become more efficient, effective, and productive. Investing in development and adding more skills to a resume never hurt anyone. That newly gained knowledge might even keep you ahead of the curve and keep you from being replaced in the future.
    2. It’s an opportunity to meet new people and form connections. Taking classes in your community or online allows you to join a new community and meet people with similar interests. Take a photography class and make new friends or join a book club and exchange ideas together.
    3. The world is constantly evolving, and it’s beneficial for you to evolve with it.
    4. Studying new things makes you happier. Growth marketer A.J. Agrawal stated “that the more ambitious goals we set, the happier we are, especially when we achieve them. Personal development is a way to guarantee us serenity from within.”
    5. Comprehending new things also leads to uncovering new problems and discovering new ways to solve those problems. You can make a difference. It allows you to see the world through different glasses and perhaps tackle a few existing issues. Watching an informative video could result in you figuring out how to solve a problem at work or in your neighborhood.
    6. Expose yourself to new ideas and views. Don’t be afraid to broaden your horizons.
    7. It can boost your self-esteem! As you enhance your skills, you will also value yourself more. Learning keeps the brain active. You must work and nourish your brain just as people train their bodies. As you learn, new connections between your neurons are formed and strengthened. That process is what leads to improvement and becoming more efficient in something.
    8. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

    a. Learn a new language
    b. Take an art class such as ceramics, photography, or sewing
    c. Read a book on a topic you’re interested in such as history or art
    d. Watch a documentary on how something is made
    e. Learn a new computer program
    f. Watch videos on how to be a better listener
    g. Pick up a magazine that discusses new technology
    h. Watch a video and learn how to improve your home or build something
    i. Listen to a podcast that teaches you how to be more organized 

  • Inspirational Podcasts Worth Listening To

    Podcasts are the perfect on-the-go entertainment. You can listen to inspirational conversations or stories no matter where you are or what you’re doing. Want to learn how something is made? There’s a podcast for that. Want to get inspired and start your own business? There’s one for that too. Don’t be shocked if you even start looking forward to your morning commute.

    They are also phenomenal educational tools. Hear from experts of various industries while they share tips and secrets to their success. Next time you’re exercising or doing tedious chores, use that time to prepare for the next phase of your career or learn about finances. No matter how specific the topic you’re interested in is, there are tons of options. Get listening and immerse yourself in enlightening conversations that will keep you amused and inspired. Below are several podcasts to check out.

    1. Unlocking Us with Brené Brown – Tune in for conversations that unlock the deeply human part of who we are, so that we can live, love, parent, and lead with more courage and heart.
    2. TED Radio Hour – Life’s biggest questions, explored. TED Radio Hour investigates the biggest questions of our time with the help of the world’s greatest thinkers. In each episode, host Manoush Zomorodi explores a big idea through a series of TED Talks and original interviews, inspiring us to learn more about the world, our communities, and most importantly, ourselves.
    3. Good Life Project – Every week, listen to inspirational, intimate and disarmingly-unfiltered conversations about living a fully-engaged, fiercely-connected and purpose-drenched life.
    4. How I Built This with Guy Raz – Hear Guy Raz dive into the stories behind some of the world’s best-known companies. How I Built Thisweaves a narrative journey about innovators, entrepreneurs and idealists—and the movements they built.
    5. Armchair Expert – You won’t want to miss the podcast hosted by Dax Shepard and Monica Padman that celebrates the messiness of being human.
    6. Inspirational Talks with LaDonna Marie – The empowerment podcast will focus on planting positive seeds in the lives of others and discusses triumphant moments in overcoming obstacles.
    7. A Slob Comes Clean – Listen to Nony (Dana K White) share reality-based cleaning and organizing tips based on her own deslobification process.
    8. The Tim Ferris Show – The Tim Ferriss Show is rated one of the top business podcasts. In each episode, he deconstructs world-class performers from eclectic areas (investing, sports, business, art, etc.) to extract the tactics, tools, and routines you can use.
    9. Happier with Gretchen Rubin – Tune in to hear one of the most thoughtful and influential voices on the subject of happiness, habits, and being human. Gretchen Rubin is HAPPIER, and she wants you to be happier too. The #1 bestselling author brings her practical, manageable advice about happiness and good habits to this lively, thought-provoking podcast.
    10. The Art of Charm – The Art of Charmis where self-motivated people learn from the company’s coaches about to how to master human dynamics. It’s a premier networking and success podcast.
    11. Allrecipes Homemade Podcast – Tune in for nostalgia, witty banter, and stirring questions as Allrecipes helps you get to the heart of what cooking means.
    12. Parents – We Are Family – Hosted by Shaun T. Firness and Julia Dennison of Parents.com, We Are Family celebrates the new normal with honest conversations about today’s modern family, in all its diversity.
    13. Let’s Go Together from Travel + Leisure – Host Kellee Edwards, an award-winning travel expert, discusses inclusivity in the travel space by sharing compelling stories from diverse voices, inspiring everyone to explore the world. Hear how travel can help create a new perspective on cultures and communities both near and far.
    14. Be Better – The Be Better podcast, hosted by Kim Haynie, aims to provide the knowledge and advice to help you own your future (and yes, to be better.) This podcast, created by Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, will give you the tools and knowledge to be the best version of yourself. Through in-depth discussions with successful people from all walks of life, we will uncover insights and inspiration to help you build your own story, achieve your goals and live your best life. Join us each week as we dive into a new topic, everything from healthy habits to entrepreneurship and wealth management; we’ve got you covered. Subscribe now to make sure you never miss an episode!

  • 100 Ways to Be Better

    Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is excited to introduce 100 Ways to Be Better, which is all about improving your life as well as the lives of those around you. Below you will discover a variety of tips and ideas to help you fill the year with growth, happiness, and giving. Whether you are interested in ways to enhance your home or want to learn how to improve your sleep, there are tons of tips for you to check out. We also believe that one small act of kindness can significantly impact others and improve your community. Consider trying a few of the charity ideas in your spare time.

    1. Write down your goals and learn how to achieve them. 

    2. Shovel your neighbor’s driveway after a snowstorm.  

    3. Alleviate stress and get organized.  

    4. Start a gratitude journal.   

    5. Set up a fitness room.   

    6. Meditate more, especially before bed. 

    7. Donate unused items to those in need.    

    8. Invest in apps that improve your state of mind.   

    9. Listen to inspirational podcasts.  

    10. Leave a positive comment on a social post.  

    11. Buy from companies that treat their employees fairly. 

    12. Pay for the person in line behind you.   

    13. Surprise your server with a generous tip.  

    14. Start the DIY project you’ve been putting off.   

    15. Read literature about black history month. 

    16. Organize your junk drawer.  

    17. Learn how to improve your sleep.  

    18. Declutter and organize your phone.  

    19. Help BHGRE® and New Story build homes for families in need. 

    20. Organize your kitchen pantry and cabinets. 

    21. Call your loved ones more often. 

    22. Support women-owned businesses. (#Women’s History Month) 

    23. Create a calm workspace at home. 

    24. Increase the value of your home.  

    25. Reduce clutter and clean your home in a sustainable way. 

    26. Ditch plastic and invest in reusable items.  

    27. Help a neighbor plan or plant a garden. 

    28. Recycle through upcycling.  

    29. Give flowers to a stranger.  

    30. Switch to rechargeable batteries. 

    31. Make your home eco-friendly. 

    32. Grow vegetables and donate what you don’t use.  

    33. Follow social accounts that share positive news and tips.  

    34. Spruce up your community. 

    35. Organize a community garage sale and donate the proceeds to charity.  

    36. Plant trees in your community or start a community garden. 

    37. Gather a few friends and clean a local park or beach. 

    38. Shop for groceries for an elderly neighbor.   

    39. Give away items you no longer need via NextDoor.  

    40. Take a walk as a family and pick up trash along the way. 

    41. Support local businesses. 

    42. Host a yard sale and donate the proceeds to charity.   

    43. Smile at strangers or say hello.  

    44. Consume less meat.  

    45. Text or call someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.    

    46. Put inspirational signs in your car window.  

    47. Take a day off to unplug and do your favorite things. 

    48. Become pen pals with a homebound senior.  

    49. Send a friend delivery with their favorite foods for no reason.  

    50. Make your own compost. 

    51. Help a friend or neighbor move. 

    52. Cook your favorite recipe for a neighbor or coworker.  

    53. Boost your mood with more plants around your home. 

    54. Help save the bees.  

    55. Eat better to feel better.  

    56. Spend more time outside with family and friends. 

    57. Create an outdoor space you will love. 

    58. Give up your seat on a crowded bus, train, or subway.  

    59. Make your home safe for pets. 

    60. Donate old blankets, towels, and toys to animal shelters. 

    61. Foster a pet for adoption. 

    62. Introduce yourself to new neighbors and bring fresh flowers. 

    63. After a positive experience with a worker, let their boss know.  

    64. Create a calming and meditative space at home. 

    65. Volunteer at an animal shelter. 

    66. Adopt or sponsor an endangered species.  

    67. Learn something new and enhance your skills.   

    68. Tell your boss how much you appreciate a colleague.  

    69. Take an art class whether it be photography or ceramics.  

    70. Compliment a stranger. 

    71. Transform your home into a stress-free space.  

    72. Go for a nature walk. 

    73. Buy secondhand products.  

    74. Support Latin owned businesses. #HispanicHeritageMonth 

    75. Organize photo albums – printed or digital.  

    76. Donate leftover Halloween candy. 

    77. Write a letter of recommendation for someone deserving.  

    78. Donate stuffed animals to help children in distress. 

    79. Have your kids write to residents at an assisted living facility. 

    80. Unplug appliances when you aren’t home to conserve energy. 

    81. Donate gently used costumes and décor.  

    82. Leave inspirational or uplifting notes for people to find.  

    83. Give a friend a meaningful gift just for fun. 

    84. Reduce your environmental impact. 

    85. Make your favorite BH&G recipe for someone else. 

    86. Deliver warm meals to homebound seniors. 

    87. Assist a veteran by driving them to appointments or assisting them with errands. 

    88. Only run appliances when they are full (such as the dishwasher and laundry machine) 

    89. Organize a neighborhood food drive. 

    90. Invest in eco-friendly appliances and products. 

    91. Opt-out of paper bills and pay online. 

    92. Donate unused gift cards to charity. 

    93. Adopt a letter from Santa and make a kid’s wish come true. 

    94. Donate a backpack filled with supplies to a foster child. 

    95. Bring the mail in for an elderly neighbor. 

    96. Write handwritten thank you notes for people. 

    97. Host a weekly family or friends’ dinner. 

    98. Spend time outside in the winter wonderland. 

    99. Collect and donate coats, gloves, and hats to help people stay warm. 

    100. Be kind to yourself!  

     

  • How to Set Goals and Achieve Them

    Every time we enter a new year, there is a sense of a new beginning and a fresh start. Many people write down a few New Year’s resolutions but all too often, they stumble and, over time, retreat to old, possibly unhealthy habits or forget their goals altogether. Use the tips below when setting your goals and learn a few tricks that will help you achieve them.

    1. Write them down! Jotting them down is the first step to getting the ball in motion.
    2. When writing down your goals for the year, consider things that are realistic and attainable. Don’t set several huge goals that would be very difficult to accomplish. A more realistic approach would be to form one large goal and break it down into several smaller steps. Having numerous tasks or steps will make it feel more doable, and you’ll feel good as you cross them off one by one. Breaking it down will also make it easier to stay on track. This approach works well when you’re looking for your next dream home. Here you can discover several ways to simplify the homebuying process by breaking it down into smaller steps and tackling them one at a time
    3. Be realistic. Don’t simply set a goal removing something from your day-to-day for the remainder of the year. Instead of never eating bread again, eat it less frequently. If you cut out something entirely, chances are you’ll crave it more.
    4. Keep your list of goals in a place where you will see them regularly. You can tape a list to your bathroom mirror or fridge or take a photo of your list and keep it in your phone.
    5. When setting a goal, consider teaming up with a friend or partner. Accomplishing a task with a friend will help you be less tempted to give up, plus it can make it much more fun.
    6. Make sure you’re checking your progress frequently if it’s something you can monitor.
    7. Celebrate the small wins and achievements!

  • Make A Difference

    Open your heart and discover several ways you can make a difference and give back. Remember, something that feels small to one person might significantly impact another. Consider donating unused gift cards to charity or buying a child a set of building blocks they can play with for years to come.

    Here are five ways you can give back this season:

    1. Many of us have a stack of unused gift cards in our wallets or a few collecting dust in our junk drawers. According to Bankrate, 51% of U.S. adults have unused gift cards, and the average person is leaving $116 on the table. Instead of leaving the cards or money behind, donate them. There are several websites and companies that can take the remaining balance and provide money to those in need. It’s easy, fast, and can help others that are not as fortunate. charitygiftcertificates.org
    2. Get out there and give back! Whether you are interested in donating your time, money, or skills, check out volunteermatch.org for a variety of ways you can help others. If you prefer volunteering virtually, there are plenty of options for that as well. See how you can make a difference in someone else’s life.
    3. Put a smile on a child’s face and donate gifts and toys to those less fortunate. There are many children whose parents or caregivers cannot afford to buy them gifts during the holiday season so let’s make sure every kid has something to enjoy. When purchasing a toy, consider buying items that can be used many times. Here are a few recommendations:
      a. Boardgames
      b. Arts Supply Kits – with markers, crayons, or pencils they can continue using
      c. LEGOS
      d. Building Sets and Blocks
      e. Playdoh
      f. Animal Toy Sets
      g. Lite Brite
    4. Write holiday cards to people in nursing homes who might not have family or friends that reach out. A letter or card can go a long way and make people feel heard and valued.
    5. Do you enjoy baking? Whip up desserts and tasty treats for a neighbor, coworker, or friend. Unwrap a few yummy recipes below:

    a. Chocolate Caramel Monkey Bread
    b. 26 Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes
    c. Brownie Pops
    d. Gluten Free Peanut Butter Cookies
    e. 25 of the Best Cupcake Recipes

  • Ways to Give Back on Halloween

    Help others have a Spooktacular time this Halloween. There’s a variety of ways you can give back to your community, from helping a neighbor decorate to donating your leftover candy.

    1. As we all know – kids grow fast. Instead of putting your kid’s previous Halloween costumes in a box to collect dust, donate them to those who might not be able to afford their own. There are children out there who would love a second-hand costume.
    2. If you enjoy crafting and have time to spare, perhaps you can create costumes for those who can’t afford their own. If you’re not an expert with the sewing machine, consider crafting a few simple pieces such as superhero capes or costumes you can make simply by gluing items together. Here are fifteen no sew Halloween costumes that you can make. There’s an assortment of delightful disguises that don’t require you to pick up a needle or thread.

    3. Donate fun Halloween décor or help a neighbor decorate their home. Some families might not be able to afford holiday decorations for their yard, while others might not be physically able to put them up. Lend a helping hand and assist your neighbors in making a killer yard. Make sure you’re following the proper safety guidelines while decorating. Discover several hauntingly good décor ideas below:

    Use colorful construction paper to cut out pumpkins and ghosts. Attach them to a string so you can hang them up outside. You can also repurpose old sheets or towels to make spooky ghosts that hang from trees.

    Upcycle toilet paper rolls to make a bunch of monsters. Paint a few rolls in a variety of colors and once they’re dry, draw on polka dots or scales. Create a mummy by wrapping thin strips of toilet paper around it. Paint one green to make a Frankenstein friend. Then use a black marker to draw on hair, a mouth, and stitches. Create as many as you want using items such as googley eyes, glitter, tinfoil, and anything that can add some flair.

    Recycle old tissue boxes to create a merry band of mischievous monsters. Flip the empty tissue boxes upside down and paint the outside so they resemble spooky little creatures.

    Use balloons to create fun floating ghosts and spooky creatures. Gently draw ghost faces on white balloons and Jack-O’-Lanterns on orange balloons.

    4. Host an outdoor Halloween party for the kids in the neighborhood. Uncover fun activities and recipes that everyone will love.

    5. Give back to those who serve our nation and donate your left-over candy. Operation Gratitude is a Halloween Candy Give-Back program that collects and donates candy to deployed troops, veterans, and first responders. Show someone some appreciation and send them a candy care package.

  • How to Reduce Your Environmental Impact at Home

    More people are recognizing the importance of saving the planet, and companies are stepping up with creative ways to reduce our collective environmental impact. From products that promote a sustainable home to electric cars, it’s not hard to find ways to promote greener living while preserving the world’s resources for future generations. Reducing your environmental impact can also save you money, particularly if you choose to seek sustainable home ideas.

    Recycling is Still Important

    Experts claim that the United States produces well over 250 million tons of trash each year. Much of this finds its way to incinerators and landfills, and recycling can redirect waste to better places. Paper, tin and steel cans can still be recycled. Check with your municipality or state to see what kinds of plastic can be recycled in your area. You can also recycle broken electronics, dry cell batteries and car batteries as long as it is done properly.

    Recycling also applies to clothing, and there are many organizations that accept gently used goods. Real Simple advises donating to The Vietnam Veterans of America, the Salvation Army and Goodwill. Shelters, hospitals, synagogues and churches can also accept clothing and other goods. When buying new clothes, check out brick-and-mortar and online thrift and consignment shops. These are also great sources for finding children’s toys and other household items.

    Sustainable Eating

    One of the best ways to have a sustainable home is to start the habit of composting. Gardeners like Martha Stewart refer to it as “black gold,” and for good reason. It turns everyday food scraps and other organic materials into soil treatments loaded with nutrients and moisture that boost plant health. You can buy a compost bin or use another large container, and toss in food waste, branches and dry leaves.

    Planting a garden is another way to reduce your environment footprint, and it can also save you money. Best of all, nothing tastes better than a freshly-picked tomato or strawberry. You also don’t need to fertilize the plants with chemicals if you use compost. When you do go food shopping, buy fresh, whole foods that are not treated with chemicals.

    Shop local, too, as this supports local economies. Also remember to bring  your own bags, rather than accumulating plastic ones in your pantry. You can take them back to the store for recycling if you have to, but many states have already or will be eliminating plastic bags altogether.

    Eco-Friendly Appliances

    Old-fashioned appliances use a lot of energy, are inefficient and can waste a good deal of money. Energy Star-rated appliances save consumers money and protect the environment, so replacing old and inefficient appliances with new and efficient alternatives is a smart idea. There are some high-tech, high-performing refrigerators and dishwashers on the market, and they can use up to 40 percent less energy than other models.

    Induction cooktops are also energy-efficient. They use electrical induction rather than thermal conduction from an electric heating element or a flame. This allows them to heat up quicker, reducing energy usage and cooking time for you. Other cooktops have fast-boiling features, which may also be worth looking into.

    You can also cut back on water and energy usage by purchasing an Energy Star washer and dryer. Look for the bright yellow stickers and tags while you are shopping. Try running fewer loads with more clothing instead of a lot of small loads, and dry clothing outside on a clothesline when the weather is sunny.

    Other Sustainable Home Ideas

    In many parts of the country, homeowners can choose their own energy suppliers. If you fall into this category, choose one that uses solar, geothermal or other kinds of renewable power resources. Some minor renovations can also help make your home more sustainable. Utility providers often provide free energy audits, and this can be a good place to start before doing any work.

    Experts may recommend filling in the gaps around your doors and windows with weather stripping, window putty or caulk. You might also want to replace old insulation, which can keep cold air in and warmer air out. Also add insulation around your water heater and cover up bare floors with rugs. Here are a few more ideas to make your home more sustainable:

    • Use LED light bulbs, which use 85 percent less energy
    • Only run the dishwasher when it is full

    ·       Turn off all electronics (light switches, computers or televisions) when not in use.