Money|Lighten up
Adding more night lights is a convenient, inexpensive way to safely brighten the home during longer winter nights. Night lights are especially ideal for homes with toddlers, small children or seniors, according to the Leviton Institute. Options include:
LED night lights that are long- lasting and energy efficient because of light emitting diodes.
Incandescent lights that cast a soft, soothing glow with a small 4- to 5-watt bulb.
Light-sensing options that turn on at dusk and off at dawn. Night lights also are available with sound or motion sensors.
Time|Be choosy Quick & Simple offers these ideas for undercutting the December scheduling, spending and eating glut:
Choose one party to indulge at instead of busting your diet at every holiday function.
Piece tasks together in smaller chunks instead of creating overwhelming to-do lists.
Before blowing up at the family for not helping out, stop, count to 10 and take a deep breath. Then delegate tasks that work with each person’s style – like wrapping gifts in front of the television.
Energy|Buy smart Chilly weather means more homeowners are relying on firewood to reduce heating costs, according to the Colorado Department of Agriculture. But experts add that it is important to purchase wood from a reputable dealer, and to be familiar with the amount of wood in a “cord,” or a neatly stacked volume that equals 128 cubic feet. For bulk sales, firewood is sold by the cord or fractional cord. When buying bundled firewood from grocery or convenience stores, the correct method of sale is the cubic foot. The actual amount of wood must meet the quantity declaration. Call 303-477-4220 for more information or download firewood selling rules at ag.state.co.us.
