I’ve read that minimizing the use of standby power (sometimes termed vampire or phantom power) can decrease energy bills. I’m always looking for ways to save a few dollars, so I turned to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to see what the fuss is all about. What is standby power? Many pieces of electronic equipment continue to use … [Read more...] about The Significance of Standby Power
Rampant Reusing: Old Socks
I knew it was time to buy new socks when I could feel the cold tile floor against my bare feet after putting on a pair of my old socks. Before throwing out my old ones, I looked into some ways I could reuse them. 10 Ways to Reuse Old Socks Use socks to customize flower pots. Simply slip a sock over a pot and cut the toe portion off so … [Read more...] about Rampant Reusing: Old Socks
Communicating Opinions to Elected Officials
Which political issues are on your mind? Gun control? Immigration reform? Gay marriage? The sustainability of Social Security? Have you communicated your opinions on these topics to your elected officials? I’ve never been short on opinions, yet I’ve rarely taken the time to express them to the decision makers who represent me. This … [Read more...] about Communicating Opinions to Elected Officials
Common Housekeeping Conundrums: Static Electricity
Over the last few weeks I’ve been having some experiences that are literally shocking. I'll walk across the room and flip a light switch or give my husband a welcome home hug and experience an electrostatic shock. I’ve looked into the causes of this phenomenon and, more relevant to me at the moment, some ways to prevent it. What is … [Read more...] about Common Housekeeping Conundrums: Static Electricity
Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 2)
Multitasking, a term frequently used to denote the process of serial tasking, is often employed to increase productivity. However, as I indicated in my previous post on the topic, recent research indicates that productivity can actually be blunted by multitasking. If this is the case, then what strategies can boost … [Read more...] about Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 2)
Popcorn: A Healthy and Affordable Snack
Popcorn is often overlooked as a relatively healthy snack option. This may be because it is often prepared or served in unhealthy manners, such as butter-drenched “movie theater” varieties or those popped in pre-sealed microwave popcorn bags that generally contain high amounts of unhealthy fats, numerous chemicals and artificial flavors, and … [Read more...] about Popcorn: A Healthy and Affordable Snack
Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 1)
Do you unload the dishwasher as dinner cooks on the stove…while you talk on the phone, compile a grocery list, and have a load of laundry going? Engaging in all of these activities at once is an example of what is commonly referred to as “multitasking.” I’ve done this a multitude of times and I often think I’m more productive and efficient … [Read more...] about Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 1)
Healthy Game Day Snacks
The biggest football game of the year is just over a week away. Traditional game day snack menus feature everything from fried chicken and bacon-wrapped cocktail weenies to loaded nachos and pizza. While some of these options are tempting, I’m considering some healthier alternatives. I will not pretend the selections featured below are as … [Read more...] about Healthy Game Day Snacks
