Time|Season stoppers
Quick & Simple magazine devised these ideas for topping off this year’s holiday décor:
Take down some framed pictures and wrap them up as if they were presents.
Tie big red bows to chairs, sconces and light fixtures.
Hang small tree ornaments on houseplants.
For an easy centerpiece, arrange a selection of colorful candles on a plate or shallow dish. Nestle a few ball ornaments on top. Drape metallic curling ribbon around the plate, spilling over the edges, to give a party feel.
Money|Bank note
People who use direct deposit and electronic bill-pay save an average of 30 percent on banking and service fees, and accumulate more long-term savings, according to new data from NACHA – The Electronic Payments Association. NACHA represents more than 11,000 financial institutions. It also reports that electronic banking effectively protects consumers against identity theft.
Space|Faking it
Friends are dropping by in 30 minutes. The house is a mess. These quick spruce- up tips from The Maids Home Services can help:
Close doors to rooms not intended for guests.
Use a laundry basket to pick up miscellaneous items and store in a bedroom closet.
Remove dishes from sink and counters. If there’s no time to wash them, put them on a cookie sheet and stick them in the oven. Just don’t forget about them!
Energy|Study up
The Sierra Club wants consumers to pledge in 2007 to reduce energy use by taking its “Cool Home” survey. It enables homeowners to zero in on places around their house where they can save money and energy. For instance, lowering the thermostat 5 degrees can shave 10 percent off the energy bill, and installing six compact fluorescent light bulbs can save the average American family $60 a year. Learn more at sierraclub.org/coolhome.
