 |
Encourage Young Things to Grow
Planting a garden is a great way to spend quality time with your kids. Our family started gardening together after my son brought home a seedling in a cup from school. He was fascinated with watching the seed sprout and grow, and his enthusiasm inspired us to try our hand at growing other plants and flowers. Now tending our garden is a family pastime we all look forward to. Why not start a garden with your children? It can be as simple as a few pots on the back deck or as elaborate as a full vegetable patch in the back yard. For a quick, easy way to get started, check out the www.matchstickgarden.com.
|
|
|
 |
Flowers & More
Having fresh flowers around the house really lifts my spirits. If you're strapped for time, find a local florist you like and take advantage of their creativity by purchasing ready-made arrangements. All you have to do is bring them home and enjoy. My favorite florist in Greenville is Twigs. Not only do they have a beautiful assortment of fresh flowers, they also carry vases and other decorative accents for the home. It's a great place to browse for creative ways to decorate a mantel or table, not to mention party or holiday decorations.
http://www.twigs.net
|
|
|
 |
Homemade Cleaning Solutions
Did you know that with just a few simple ingredients you can make your own non-toxic, environmentally-friendly cleaners that cost less and work better than the ones available in stores? Try some of my favorites:
All-Purpose Cleaner
1/2 cup vinegar
1 cup clear ammonia
1/4 cup baking soda
1 gallon hot water
Mix together in a large bucket, and use this solution to mop or wipe surfaces clean.
Lemon Furniture Polish
1 lemon
2 cups mineral oil
Squeeze the lemon, and mix the juice with mineral oil. Use a soft cloth to apply to furniture and buff until shiny.
Tile and Toilet Cleaner
1 cup baking soda
1 gallon hot water
1 cup clear ammonia
1 cup vinegar
1 tablespoon grated soap
Dissolve the baking soda into the hot water in a large bucket. Add the other ingredients, and stir to mix well. You can also use this on floors. Make sure to rinse well with water.
|
|
|