“90% of the energy consumed by your washing machine is used simply to heat water.” That’s a statement that stops me cold. Given the savings options, why would anyone choose NOT to use the cold water setting? Maybe it’s because we translate hotter into cleaner. While it’s true that hot water may dissolve certain things like grease more easily, studies on killing germs show that cold is just as effective in getting rid of dirt and bacteria as warm or hot water. And with today’s detergents that offer cold water cleaning agents, there is no reason to hit the hot button anymore. So GO COLD when doing your laundry and start seeing the savings. Quote is from ASE’s Top 10 Tips for Energy-Efficient Laundry. NOTE: Be sure to use eco friendly detergents and cleaning products. Click here for suggestions on green cleaning.
Ditch the Plastic on Turkey Day
Throw out the plastic wrap this holiday season and do your family and the planet a big favor. If you don’t know by now, plastic wrap is a single-use petroleum product and contains PVC, a dangerous toxic substance which 
can leach into your food during use and into the air when incinerated. In addition, plastics on their own are fairly rigid, so manufacturers generally add in softening chemicals called phthalates, which are known to cause hormonal disruption and developmental problems, and have been found to drift into food. Nothing like a little toxin-enhanced cranberry sauce! Instead, put leftovers into reusable containers (glass preferred). Even foil is a healthier, greener choice than plastic as it can be rinsed, reused and recycled. Note: Remember that even the wraps that are marketed as PVC free are still not accepted for recycling. Click here for for tips on enjoying a green Thanksgiving. Wishing you and your loved ones a day of green and gratitude!
Clearing Your “stuffed” Stuff
Looking to unload that once valuable Beanie Baby collection? Finally ready to clear out the college grad’s panda bears? SAFE (Stuffed Animals For Emergencies) will gladly accept stuffed animals that are taking up valuable space in your home. I especially appreciate organizations that provide national networks and SAFE has chapters in almost every state. Click on the link to find the closest SAFE source to you and arrange for pick up or drop off. NOTE: Stuffed animals must be in new or nearly new condition. No missing limbs or stains. And as the toys are given to little ones in trauma situations, no scarey faces please.
Need a Ride? Try Ridejoy and Save!
Here’s a great way to save money, reduce stress and do the planet a favor. Ridejoy. Next time you’re planning a trip, just go to the website’s “Request a Ride” page and punch in the “to and from” to get a list of who is going your way. If you are the one behind the wheel and could use some gas money, list yourself in the “Offer A Ride” section so folks can contact you. There are over 940 cities currently in the network so chances are pretty good that you’ll find a lift. Price is determined by the driver and is usually just to cover gas expense. What a smart way to connect with others and conserve natural resources. The friendly folks at Ridejoy make it all very easy. Visit the Ridejoy site now and get ready to hit the highway. Happy trails!
Garbage Pickup for your Belly
This morning I watched a garbage pick-up at the end of the road. Apparently some of the trash hadn’t made it into the dump truck and bottles and debris were strewn all over the street. The garbage man carefully shoveled up every piece of glass and gunk and put it back in the can. Then he got in the cab, pushed the button and out came the mechanical claws that grabbed the big can, lifted it high over the truck, shook out the contents and returned it to the ground. Once the arms had retracted, the man got out and climbed up to the top of the truck to grab the final pieces of garbage clinging to the edge. The job finally completed, he got back in the cab and drove on to the next pick-up. Quite a process. Viewing the scene inspired me to think about what kind of debris from the past I might be carrying around that needed to be shoveled up and cleared out. Here’s the little exercise that I came up with: I relaxed and focused on my belly and then visualized a golden garbage truck pulling up. Two men (angels/light beings – whatever you like) got off the truck, each with a golden shovel. As I named the debris (anger, resentment, etc.) they shoveled it up and tossed it into the truck. Some of what I recalled required more effort to scoop up but it actually didn’t take long. When they were done, the workers sprinkled gold dust on the clean surface, tipped their hats and said with a smile, “We’re here whenever you need us.” I’ve scheduled weekly pick-ups.
Stay Clear with New Travel Essential Oil Product
You’ve heard me preach about the benefits of essential oils for both your space and your personal care. I’m always on the look out for new products from trusted sources. So I’m really excited to share a nifty item just in time for summer travel: essential oil towelettes. They come in a variety of choices including Lavender, Orange and Lemon. I love the Peppermint for cleaning and freshening my tootsies after a walk. Keep in your glove box or store in the ice chest for a cool wipe. No synthetics here – this is the real deal. Antiseptic and antibacterial plus a wonderful aroma AND portable. Use citrus wipes to clean steering wheels and dashboards, handrails and doorknobs. Lavender towelettes are great for hotel nightstands and office keyboards. The Lavender wipe also has a bull-dog wrapper option making it a great gift for pet owners on the road. Tons of uses for these little cloths that pack a pleasing punch. Purchase singles for $1 each or save by buying in a pack of 20 individually wrapped for $15. Enjoy! Herban Essentials Towelettes from The Essential Oil Company.
Tiny House Movement
The tiny house movement has been underway for many years. For many of us fans, however, it doesn’t seem to be making much headway. Here’s a new article from TreeHugger that suggests 5 of the BIG obstacles that stand in the way of this concept getting huge. Read Why Hasn’t The Tiny House Movement Become a Big Thing? And if you haven’t yet seen the documentary “We The Tiny House People” – today might be just the right day to watch it and be inspired. Kirsten Dirksen takes us around the world for an inside peek at creative small spaces and downsizing dreams come true. Be sure to catch the amazing wall-divider-bed in Manhattan and the wall of pop-out living in Barcelona! View the documentary now.
Consigning Your Stuff – Top Tips for Portland Area
“Where do I consign my stuff?” That’s one of the most common questions I’m asked. The answer, however, has more layers to it than just where. You also have to consider what and how. I’ve put together a nifty Consignment Tip Sheet to address all three. Every city I’ve ever been in has consignment stores with items ranging from high end to low brow. If you are lucky enough to live in the Portland metro area, there are some great choices for consigning furniture, fashion and jewelry. But even if you live outside the City of Roses, my CTS (Consignment Tip Sheet) has helpful hints on deciding what is good consignment material and how to prepare your items to help ensure a higher dollar return. Download pdf file: Consignment Tips from A Clear Place.
Trading in City Lights for A Country Dream
From Kate Hudson to Hudson, Ohio is quite a leap. Find out how this man turned a Disney layoff into his dream come true. It’s a heartwarming, inspiring example of getting clear about the life you truly desire and following your heart. And when you have the courage to do that – the world is a better place. You don’t have to live in Ohio to take a cue from this sustainable lifestyle. Plant your seeds right where you are. Congratulations, Dan Soulsby and thanks for your efforts … here’s wishing you and your family continued success with the farm and with Project Garden Share!
Clear Out Under the Full Moon
Did you know you can use the power of the moon to help you clear your space. Huh? It’s true. The full moon is the time of the month for letting go of what you no longer need or want in your life. It’s nature’s time to release so it’s our time, too. When the moon is at its fullest, set the intention for what you want to get rid of and then as the moon wanes, your unwanted items will diminish. Old patterns, habits, emotions, fears, etc. I find it a perfect time to take a look around your space and clear out what no longer serves a purpose. It can be obvious items like furniture and appliances to smaller things like photos, books, clothes, papers … the stuff that fills the shelves and closets and drawers. Let it go. Clear it out. You’ll feel SO much better. For mindful ways to dispose of your stuff, check out my Resources page. And don’t forget to give yourself a big round “super moon” smile for taking positive action!
A Clear Place 