Last week, several areas of Missouri, including the area of the school where I teach, were hit badly by a tornado. There were many families whose homes were severely damaged and many who were displaced. I can’t imagine the stress and hardship these families are going through. It is during times like these that we... Continue Reading →
Gratitude is always cheap!
We have been so fortunate that during our tough times since becoming parents (two pregnancy bedrests, hospital stays for me before all our boys were born and for them many weeks after, and the challenges of being parents to newborn triplets) to be the recipients of much support, meals, volunteers, and gifts for us and our... Continue Reading →
What are you doing for Earth Day?
(updated 4/16/17) Earth Day is April 22 and cities around the world are sponsoring volunteer efforts, fairs, festivals, and speakers. To find out what is going on in your town, do a Google search for your city and “Earth Day.” Unfortunately, several sites that used to offer a directory of Earth Day events do not have that feature available... Continue Reading →
Tax time tip: Values of donations
Taxes are due very soon and I definitely need to get started on mine. I don't do them myself (I worry I would miss something), but there are still a lot of things to gather, print, call for, etc. I don't want to forget things from year to year, so of course I created several checklists. The... Continue Reading →
Spring cleaning for a good cause
As much as I know it adds to my cleaning time, I cannot help but spring clean/declutter when I am cleaning for Pesach. It makes me feel good to get rid of things in our home that we no longer need or use. I just cannot throw things away if they might be able to be... Continue Reading →
Recycle your unused medicines
(updated 4/20/17) Have you ever wondered what to do with your leftover medications? I hate to throw out anything that might have another use or can be recycled. I've never wanted to throw old medicine for fear that an animal might eat it at a landfill and get sick. If I flush them, I worry about polluting our... Continue Reading →
Give your old shoes a new life
(updated 4/16/17) What do you do with those shoes that cannot be repaired or donated for someone else to use? Here are a few ideas to give your old shoes a new purpose in life! For shoes that can be worn again: ∞ Give them to a friend or community member. We have been fortunate to... Continue Reading →
Finding a home for used stuffed animals
(updated 4/20/17) Usually around Chanukah or Pesach/Passover, I realize that my boys have too many toys. With them getting new things for Chanukah and birthdays, I am also reminded to get rid of toys and games they have gotten too old for or rarely play with. The stuffed animal bin, especially, is always overflowing. The... Continue Reading →
Holiday gifts, Part 4 — Gifts that support charities
If you are still looking for that perfect gift, why not choose something that also gives back to charity. Here are some great articles to help you with your choice: “Holiday Gifts That Give Back” from Real Simple. “11 Holiday Gift Programs That Benefit Nonprofits and Make the World A Better Place: 2011 Edition” “Gifts that... Continue Reading →
To save or not to save?
I always feel like I need to save every receipt and piece of monetary paperwork. However, then I get behind on all of my filing! I have so many piles waiting to be added to the filing cabinet. So what exactly do you need to save? I have compiled some tips from a few sites... Continue Reading →