Links to other websites on the web for crafts, activities, Earth Day ideas etc.
18 Ways to Reuse Egg Cartons- Here are some easy, effective uses for those empty egg cartons. Before throwing them away, check out these simple ideas.
Air Drying Clothes Without A Clothesline- We all know that if we don't dry our clothes in the dryer we save on electricity, but many of us don't think about how the dryer reduces the life of our clothes. For a long time I couldn't understand why so many people were buying scads of socks and underwear for their families every few months.
Backyard Discovery Zone- Many zoos and nature centers have "discovery zones" for kids to learn about different animal skins and other items in nature. You can do the same thing in your backyard. All you need is a bandana to use as a blindfold, paper and pencil, a table and nature from your backyard.
Bird Watching Tips- Bird watching is a fun, inexpensive activity for families. You can reserve a special space for bird feeders anywhere in your yard, and throughout the year watch the variety of birds that come to visit.
Choosing a Green Pediatrician- As you did when choosing an ob/gyn, you want to find a pediatrician who is top-notch medically. How much better if he or she is also on the journey to an environmentally sustainable perspective on pediatrics!
Day Trips - A Visit to the Zoo- Almost all children enjoy a trip to the zoo. You can use zoos to encourage your child's interest in the natural world and to introduce children to the many fascinating forms of life. Find out some ways to help make the most of your trip here!
Frugal Living Ideas- Visit our frugal living area for plenty of budgeting, cost cutting, recycling ways to save money and the environment!
Gardening Ideas- Whether you enjoy vegetable gardening, herbs for cooking, or planting in pots, this section has something for your green thumb.
Go Ahead and Waste It - It Was Free- Go ahead and waste it; it was free! Have you ever heard that? I wonder if that comment has the same effect on you that it has on me. Actually, it's more the mentality behind the words that has the same effect on me as fingernails down a chalkboard.
Going Green - In Our Forums- Discuss with other FC members your thoughts on going green. Are you participating, do you think it's all hype, or is it a great idea that's long overdue? Join us!
How to Create a Paper Bag Floor- Sometimes one of the toughest decorating challenges we have when we are on a budget is replacing old, worn, or ugly flooring. If you have vinyl flooring that has seen better days, or you just want more of a natural or luxurious look in your rooms, hold on to your hat! I am going to show you how to create a faux leather floor from ordinary paper bags from the grocery store!
New Beauty from Old Candles- Everyone loves the smell of an aromatic candle. They bring comfort during a relaxing soak in the bathtub, fill your living room with the scrumptious smell of baked pie, and are lovely on the porch on a warm summer's evening.
Oganic Foods: Eat Strategically to Save the Planet- Growing our foods organically has proven to be one of the hottest, fastest-growing movements of the twenty-first century. More than four million acres of American farmland have already been dedicated to organic farming, helping our health and our future.
Recycling Plastic Shopping Bags- I don't know about you, but I can't bear to throw away those plastic bags that we get every time we go to the store. They are so handy for many things!
Reusing the Changing Table- Most moms have, at one point, had a baby changing table. But once the baby is too big for it, what then? Sell it at a garage sale? Save it for your sister-in-law? Shove it in the storage shed or garage? Instead, create some needed storage space for your laundry room, mud room, kitchen, front porch, sewing room or any other area that is in need. Don't have one? You can pick one up at a garage sale these days for $10 or less.
Taking Your Kids on a Hike- With a little planning and forethought, hiking with children can be a fun and rewarding experience. Hiking is a wonderful way to help them develop a love and respect for nature, stimulate their imagination and encourage them to stay activ
Unique Window Treatments from Everyday Objects- If you are looking for something a little more unique than a curtain rod to hang your window treatments, there are several everyday household items you can use instead. To make your own wonderful and unusual window hardware, here are some great ideas:
Visit a National Wildlife Refuge- The National Wildlife Refuge System offers great locations and opportunities for families to celebrate Earth Day. From watching wildlife to volunteering on teams doing anything from weed control to helping restore a native prairie, there are plenty of ways to catch the Earth Day spirit at a national wildlife refuge.
Thanksgiving
The leaves are almost done falling and Thanksgiving is quickly approaching! Whether you are looking for fun crafts, great recipes, or costume ideas, you'll find it all here. Here are a few examples to get you started...
Family Matters Radio
FMR is a nationally syndicated radio program developed to help you live your best life, hosted by Caroline & Jacquie. No rants and raves - you get enough of that from your kids. Choose a segment below to begin listening!