Earth Faerie Momma

Spending Time Outdoors in a Boat (Get a Used Boat)

2013-05-03T22:40:00.001-04:00

Fishing on a boat is a completely different experience than fishing on shore. In large bodies of water you have an advantage. You can access those hard to reach places and deeper down. Not only are boats great for fishing, they are one of the best ways to spend time outside.

Photo Credit: Ellen Dewar

Are you looking for a fun and sporty way to cruise around? Check out the Sessa C38 cruiser. It will be your home away from home. This featured boat has a roomy cockpit with U-shaped seating. Plenty of space for lying around and there's even a fold out table. Of course, its packing twin 300hp Volvo Penta engines. It's in the more expensive range but you get your money’s worth!

Not in your budget? Find used boats for sale.

You can buy a used boat and trade or sell your current boat. Whether you're looking for a cruising boat, off-shore fishing boat or a yacht, you will find quite a variety of power boats. There are new and used boats for sale from boat owners and dealers in Australia. Use this site to narrow down your search and easily find the boat of your dreams that has the features you are looking for and is within your price range.

Organic Bamboo Sheet Set Giveaway (April 16-May 14) #ettitudeEco

2013-04-16T01:00:00.000-04:00

Bamboo is an amazing resource. It's grown without pesticides and rapidly renewable. Create a safe sleeping environment for the family. These sheets are the perfect solution for adults and kids with sensitive skin with bamboo being naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic.

In addition to bamboo sheet sets, Ettitude has a vast selection of bamboo comforters, duvet covers, crib sheets, pillows, mattress protectors, and towels to name a few. Ettitude was founded on the simple idea that all home and family essentials should not only be practical but also be unquestionably safe, Eco friendly, beautiful, and convenient.

Our Favorite Features of the Ettitude Organic Pure Bamboo Sheet Sets:

Available in six beautiful colors (white, sand, coffee, gray, aubergine, blue nights)
Equivalent to around 1000 thread count in cotton, luxuriously soft and silky!
Naturally antibacterial, great for sensitive skin and allergies
Wicks sweat away from body, cool in the summer, warm in the winter
Made from bamboo, a pesticide free, sustainable, and rapidly renewable resource
100% biodegradable
Oeko-Tex Standard 100
Easy care - cool wash, line dry

Purchase: You can purchase Ettitude Organic Bamboo sheet sets directly on their website.

Win It! Ettitude is generously blessing one winner with an Organic Pure Bamboo sheet set in your choice of size (twin, full, queen, king, or California king)!

Special thanks to AnaB Social for hosting this giveaway. Huge thanks to Ettitude and all the fabulous participating bloggers as well! Giveaway ends May 14th at 11:59 pm, open to residents WORLDWIDE, ages 18+. See detailed terms and conditions on entry form. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below (see directions on how to enter here). Thank you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: AnaB Social and all participating event bloggers are not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.

Getting a Sump Pump for Your Basement

2013-03-29T16:44:00.002-04:00

What is a sump pump?

It is a pump that removes water collected in a sump basin usually in the basement or crawl space of a home. Basements that are particularly wet or below the water table level need a sump pump. Its job is to remedy the wetness and help with basement flooding. It will remove the water from the home and far enough away from the building that it won’t cause any more problems. Usually the water is guided to a sewage drain or dry well.

Sump pumps and sump basins are usually installed into the main design of the home where there tends to be water accumulation. There are two types of sump pumps- pedestal and submersible. The pedestal is mounted on top of the sump while the submersible is inside of it.

Little Giant Sump Pump

There are two categories of submersible sump pumps- manually-operated and automatically operated. A manual pump will start pumping once it is connected to power. An automatic pump has a convenient switch that can detect water level and turn on only when needed. Dual-modes are also available making it easy to use the pump when needed but also capable of being left on for automatic use.

Things to consider when looking for a sump pump:

Power cord length
Automatic vs. manual
Horsepower
Head pressure
Phase and voltage
Backup system and alarm

Sump pump maintenance:

Sump pumps should be examined at least once a year. Pumps that run more frequently with a higher water table should be check more often. It is important to maintain your pump because costly repairs could result if it were to fail. Secondary back up pumps can be helpful in this type of situation.

PexUnivers.com has great sump pump reviews. They carry a wide selection of sump pumps including many different models and outlet connections.

Purple Renaissance Lady Costume Review {CostumeDiscounters.com}

2013-03-29T15:19:00.000-04:00

It may not be Halloween but that's no excuse for not wearing a costume. In some parts of the country people are dressing up to celebrate the Renaissance! Me? I'm just dressing up for fun with my 4 year old. He is my Knight in Shining Armor! I was sent this elegant purple Renaissance costume to review.

The clothing for royals during the Renaissance was often a strong dark color and made with velvet. Originally velvet was made from silk and it was very expensive and hard to clean. This costume replicates velvet very well. It's soft and smooth yet easy to clean.

Costume features:

This costume is just one piece.
There is a brocade embroidered ribbon that runs around the neck, down the front and around each arm.
The purple color is very true to the image on the site.
The gold and green accent the dark purple really well.
The bodice has a crisscrossing gold ribbon that ties at about the waist line.
There is a nice long zipper in back.
The sleeves open up at the wrists.
It's made of knit polyester

What do I think of this costume?

I think this costume is worth the price. It's very well put together and lightweight. It has a real Renaissance feel to it and is great for many occasions. I got a size Small/Medium and it fits me very well. I found the places where the embroidered ribbon was sewn to be a bit itchy, so I wear a tank top underneath. Other than that I really like this costume and I highly recommend it!

Disclosure: I have received the above product free for a review on my blog. No other compensation was received. My reviews are always 100% honest. I only recommend products or services I use and personally believe will be good for my readers. The opinions expressed in the post are entirely my own. Your experience with the product may differ from mine.

Why You Should Get a Hybrid Car

2013-03-09T13:02:00.000-05:00

With the rise of gas prices and compounding emissions into our air it only makes sense to switch to a hybrid vehicle.

What is a hybrid car?

It is a vehicle with both a gasoline engine and an electric motor.

The Prius V is a small SUV and full series-parallel hybrid, meaning that it uses a separate electric motor and generator. It generates electricity while the vehicle is moving which is then stored in a generator. For low speeds it runs fully on the electric motor. With 7 airbags and a panoramic moon roof it is very luxurious yet safe, making it great for families with kids.

I personally like the low profile and interior space. That way it is less prone to roll overs and can accommodation my family. There are extra storage compartment and very roomy cargo space in the back. The design also looks like it has even weight distribution which helps with driving on snow and ice. The seats are made with Toyota's patented SofTex material which has 99% fewer VOC's than other synthetic leathers that are used in vehicles. It features a build in control unit with a back up camera and advanced parking guidance. How cool is that?

Stress and cancer: the sensitivity of the body, mind and soul

2013-02-27T23:03:00.001-05:00

Life is moving at an ever increasing pace allowing for little if any quiet time to connect with what is happening in our bodies and minds. This developing trend of disconnection is fuelling systemic illness of body, mind and soul everywhere you look.

Cancer is now the primary cause of death in developed countries and the second leading cause in developing countries. Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Broadly speaking there are more than 100 different types of cancer. It can be called a disease of the genome. The DNA in our cells contains the code needed for our cells to function properly. This set of code is very complex and during the normal life cycle of the cell errors may become introduced. Luckily our cells have evolved with many check points which shut cells down if it is likely they have become corrupted. A good example of this is sunburn, where the cells that have been exposed to the powerful mutagens in the sun – ultra violet (UV) rays – suicide as it is highly possible their DNA may have been mutated.

The human psyche or soul is extraordinarily sensitive and complex. Our disconnection from what is really going on in our bodies everyday is evident in how much psychological stress we are living under - and the ramifications this is having on our health is frightening. Interestingly the word ‘psychiatry’, literally means ‘soul-healing’ and the study of psychology is really all about is the word ‘psychosis’, which literally means ‘soul-illness’ [1].

There are many different causes for the all different types of cancer. Recent studies have shown stress hormones may fuel the growth of some cancers [2, 3]. Evidence suggests stress may impact on the effectiveness of the immune system preventing normal the ‘shut down’ mechanism operating in cells with damaged DNA which can go on to become cancerous [4].

This highlights the chronic need for balance in our lives. We all intuitively know the fast paced lifestyle we lead must have its consequences, but we are very good at distracting ourselves from the obvious. Many will dismiss the need to reduce stress from our lives as an impossible task. However, no one disputes the gravity of the situation when they hear the statistics relating to cancer. Reducing chronic stress is vital for our well-being. The scientific facts of this all important disease are now speaking for themselves showing us how imperative it is to reconnect with our body, mind and soul if we are to help diminish the impact of this incredibly serious epidemic.

Griffith, J (2012) Soul. World Transformation Movement. Retrieved from http://www.worldtransformation.com/soul/
Thaker et al. (2006) Chronic stress promotes tumour growth and angiogenesis in the mouse model of ovarian carcinoma. Nature Medicine. 12, 939-944.
Sood et al. (2010) Adrenergic modulation of focal adhesion kinase protects human ovarian cancer cells from anoikis. The Journal of Clinical Investigation 120, 1515-1523.
Antoni MH et al. (2006) The influence of bio-behavioural factors of tumour biology: Pathways and mechanisms. Nature Reviews Cancer 6, 240-248.

E-Waste is Building Up

2013-02-26T13:11:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: www.freedigitalphotos.net

Apple comes out with a new model of their iPods nearly every year. But what happens to all the outdated ones? What about computers, cell phones, televisions and stereos? Over 70% are thrown away! Our purchases of electronics are dramatically increasing over time. Electronic waste, aka e-waste has become a growing problem.

E-waste takes a very long time to biodegrade but it is more than a nuisance. It’s toxic and can leach heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury. There are even companies that claim to be recycling but instead ship the e-waste to other countries.

What can be done?

Limit the amount of electronics and wait to upgrade. I know that is easier said than done but you can handle the iPhone 4 a little longer.
Buy used and refurbished when available.
Think before you toss!

Consumers need to become more educated. We all know to carefully dispose of certain light bulbs and medications but what about an old cell phone? Those contain beryllium, a toxic heavy metal. I think companies should take their products back and reuse them to make new ones. They would know how to properly take the products apart!

What about computers and phones with personal information?

If you can’t remove it yourself then you can find a company that will. Actually most computers now-a-days are very hard to clear out completely. E-Waste Harvesters has a hard drive destruction service. They will remove all personal data from hard to reach places, destroy the hard drive and then recycle it. So, don’t let the fear of passing on personal information scare you into not recycling.

TV recycling Phoenix

Televisions can be hard and inconvenient to recycle. I know it’s tempting to just throw them on the curb or drop them off at a dump. You may be able to schedule a recycling pick up.

An Efficient Water Heater Can Help You Save Money

2013-02-12T23:20:00.001-05:00

A main priority for a homeowner is having affordable utilities. If you have an old hot water heater it may be very inefficient. You could be experiencing unexpected bouts of cold water while showering or washing dishes. The tank may be too small or too large for your family. By finding a new hot water tank and hear that is efficient, the right size for your family and the proper fuel type for your home you could be saving energy and money.

Do you know if you need a tank heater or a tankless heater?

Most people don't. Discuss with some experts to find out what will work best for you. It will depend on how much water you use, how many people use it and what you use it for. Call a Calgary plumber from ClearView.

It is also important to find a reliable plumber. Not only can a bad installation effect the heaters performance and energy cost, but it can be very dangerous. ClearView technicians are factory trained and certified with a minimum of 5 years of experience. They are pro’s!

Hot Water Tanks Calgary
Not ready to get a new hot water tank? ClearView not only installs heaters but they repair them too. If you think you have a problem then give them a call. They work on all makes, models and years.
Do the environment and your wallet a favor!

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Brought to you by: ClearView Plumbing 4805 32nd Street SE Calgary, AB T2B 2X3
(403) 220-0090

Photo Credits: www.freedigitalphotos.net

Affordable Winter Fun for Kids

2013-02-12T22:38:00.001-05:00

In a tough economy most of us are looking for a way to save money while keeping our kids busy. Being in the midst of winter we are all desperate for something to do. There are so many ways to allow your child to learn and have fun without a tv or electronic device.
One of my favorites would be reading magazines. I remember sitting in my room for hours reading magazines when I was a kid! I want to allow my children to have the same experience. Magazines get your child involved and learning. My oldest son is four and he loves to do puzzles and mazes. The best part is they can be very affordable. A whole year of subscriptions can cost $20-$40. That comes to only $1.60 to $3.30 a month! Plus you can use the coupon code "mom15per" to get 15% off magazine subscriptions at SubscriptionAddiction.com. Free shipping and no tax! :)

There are magazines available for all different ages. Here are some of my favorites.

Disney Junior, formerly known as Disney and Me (ages 2-6)- This bi-monthly magazine brings your child’s favorite Disney characters to life! They can read stories, draw, and learn with matching, counting and coloring.

Ask (ages 7-10)- With ongoing adventurous stories your child will be asking for the next issue of Ask! Each issue also contains cartoons, projects, experiments, contest, games, puzzles and more.

National Geographic Little Kids (ages 3-6)- Have fun with animals, nature and science. Your child will grow a love to learn at a young age.

National Geographic for Kids (ages 8 and up)-This award winning magazine includes articles about animals, nature and science. Every issue will be full of puzzles, games and science experiments.

Zoobies (ages 0-3)- Interact with your little one with colorful animal and nature photos, stories and activities.

Zootles (ages 2-6)- Teach your toddler fun animal facts with these magazines. The pages are designed for pre-readers and beginner readers.

and last but not least...Zoobooks (ages 6-12)- Definitely one of my favorites as a child. Full of animal photos and detailed fun facts. Collect them all for an encyclopedia of animals (Alligators to Zebras)!

Win an Organic Cotton Bodysuit and Red Cloth Diaper!

2013-02-11T16:49:00.002-05:00

Valentine's Day is almost upon us! Enter to win this cute organic cotton bodysuit (in your choice of size) and a one size pocket diaper.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Enter by using the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway is open to the US & CAN and will end February 25, 2013 at 11:59 PM EST. The winner will be notified by email. Good Luck!

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What is the Deal with Gluten-Free?

2013-01-30T18:18:00.000-05:00

Photo Credit

More than likely you have seen the words "Gluten-Free" on packaging. I know in my grocery store, gluten-free products have become so popular that they now have their own aisle! But is this some kind of new "fad" or is gluten intolerance on the rise?

What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat and similar grains, including rye and barley (sometimes oats can be contaminated with it). It gives baked goods that chewy texture. It is also used as a thickener and binder, flavor enhancer, and protein supplement. A person with Celiac Disease cannot consume foods with gluten

What is Celiac Disease?
It is an auto-immune disorder. When gluten is consumed an immune reaction occurs destroying the tiny villi on the intestinal walls. This can then affect the ability to absorb important nutrients. One out of every 133 people in the US is affected by celiac disease. The disease can rear its ugly head at any point in a persons life and there are genetic factors. There is no cure. The only treatment is a life long gluten-free diet. The symptoms will disappear and the villi will even heal over time if that diet is followed. Avoiding gluten may be the new "cure all." It is hard to know for sure since it is still unknown what causes it celiac.

Symptoms:
Abdominal pain, bloating, gas, or indigestion
Constipation
Decreased appetite (may also be increased or unchanged)
Diarrhea, either constant or off and on
Nausea and vomiting
Unexplained weight loss (although people can be overweight or of normal weight)

Missing important nutrients from food may cause some of these symptoms:
Bruising easily
Depression or anxiety
Fatigue
Growth delay in children
Hair loss
Itchy skin (dermatitis herpetiformis)
Missed menstrual periods
Mouth ulcers
Muscle cramps and joint pain
Nosebleeds
Seizures
Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
Unexplained short height

If you test negative to celiac disease but have many of the above symptoms you may still have a gluten intolerance. By eating less gluten you will feel better and just like with celiac disease, you symptoms will disappear.

There seems to be a rise in gluten intolerance over the years because it is just starting to become recognized. Whether being gluten-free is a personal choice or a way to introduce new grains, there are some great recipes and products available.

Keep in mind just because something is gluten-free, it doesn't mean it is healthier!
Be careful not to fall for the new popular labeling of products. This is a great opportunity to try new foods though.
Here are some gluten-free grains to add to your meals:
Amaranth
Buckwheat
Corn
Millet
Montina (Indian rice grass)
Oats** see below
Quinoa
Rice
Sorghum
Teff
Wild Rice
**Oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, but are often contaminated with wheat during growing or processing.

Do you have Celiac's Disease?
Head on over to Andrea Rice's website Simplicity Wellness to find out first hand what it is like to have celiac's disease. She has some great health tips and gluten free recipes! Connect with her on Facebook.

What do you think about all the gluten free products?

Bloggers have power!

2013-01-23T10:08:00.000-05:00

I came across this the other day. The web is a powerful thing and bloggers are running it! This shows the importance of having social media linked to your business. Bloggers drive traffic through social media. Then you can easily keep your customers updates. Check it out!

Be Prepared For Life With Insurance

2013-01-04T15:09:00.000-05:00

Don't wait until you are retired. Be prepared now for your family and yourself no matter what your age. You can get a range of protection and insurance to suit your needs.

Auto Insurance- Protect your car and yourself in the event of an accident. The can find assistance for house and yard work if you are injured in an accident. There are have over 1,600 authorized auto repair shops for your vehicle. With a No-Drop Promise you can never lose your policy. Get towing and rentals covered.

Homeowners or Renters Insurance- Protect your home and possessions with a protection plan. Your insurance company will pay the actual cost of replacing your possessions with new items of equal quality. Get medical bills covered if anyone should get injured on your property.

Life and Disability Insurance- Plan for your loved ones if something should happen to you. The services include, funeral planning, estate guidance, beneficiary counseling, travel assistance and ID theft protection. There is also short or long-term disability insurance.

Retirement Plans and Mutual Funds- Make the most of your 401(k). Start saving for the future now. Find out if your employer matches you payments.

Business Insurance- Protect a small or large business from fire, theft, lawsuits or injury.
Offer benefits to employees.

Perfect for AARP members. Save money on car insurance, homeowners insurance and more. Get coverage on antique cars. Get an umbrella policy. You could be sued and lose your current assets and savings. This policy will be an extension to your current homeowners or auto insurance.

Green Carpet Cleaning Tips

2013-01-04T13:51:00.002-05:00

Most carpet cleaners contain toxic ingredients including petroleum solvents and artificial fragrances. Choose cleaners that will be safe for your family and the environment. Pick a green carpet cleaning service like abc carpet cleaning for periodic whole carpet cleaning and use these spot cleaning tips to keep your carpets and rugs fresh in between.

1. Oil- When you get any kind of oil or grease on your rug sprinkle baking soda and let it soak it up. Then vacuum it up. It should remove the whole stain. Repeat if necessary.

2. Gum- If you are unfortunate enough to get a lump of gum ground into your rug then act quick. It will continue to collect dirt and will get even harder to remove over time. Lay an ice cube over it and let the gum freeze. Then remove it in chunks. Repeat if necessary.

3. Juice- Start by soaking up all the juice with a towel. Then use a 50/50 vinegar/hot water solution to clean it up. Use a rag or wash cloth to scrub the area. The rinse and ring out in solution. You can even spray the solution on.

4. Urine- Just like any liquid soak up as much as you can with a towel. Then pour straight hydrogen peroxide onto it. Soak it up again with a new towel. If it still smells you can repeat it or try a vinegar/water solution. You can also try a natural enzyme cleaner like BacOut by BioKleen. *Be sure to do a color test for peroxide. I've used it on all sorts of surfaces and never had a problem, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Brought to you by: ABC Rug & Carpet care, NYC

5 Body Care Ingredients To Avoid

2012-12-14T23:34:00.000-05:00

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and absorbs most of what you put on it. Bath and body care products are not regulated and can contain toxic ingredients. Here are some you should avoid:

Photo Credit: www.freedigitalphotos.net

Artificial Fragrances- Usually just labeled as "fragrances." Companies are not required to list the ingredients that make up these fragrances. They can be comprised of over thousands of different chemicals. Most fragrances contain phthalates, which are known hormone disruptors.
Sulfates- Including Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). They are foaming agents commonly found in body wash, shampoo and bubble bath. They are harsh detergents that strip the natural oils in your skin and hair.
Propylene Glycol- This is often used in deodorants, mascara, aftershave and more. It will increase the absorption of the other chemicals into your skin, which is not so good when a product is full of yucky ingredients. It is also a skin irritant.
Parabens- This is a preservative often found in lotion, sunscreen, toothpaste and more. They can mimic estrogen, which is known to play a role in the development of breast cancer.
Petroleum based products- These include mineral oil, paraffin, and petrolatum. Not only are they unnatural but they are toxic and interfere with hormones. They also coat the skin which doesn't allow it to breathe (examples: petroleum jelly and baby oil).

Stick with Organic skin care made with natural body oils and butters like; almond oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil and more. Make sure any scent is based on essential oils. These will not only smell wonderful...they will be therapeutic as well!

Brought to you by: Enviro Products World

380 Ludlow Ave. Cranford, NJ 07016

Why You Should Be Shopping At a Farmers Market

2012-11-21T15:41:00.003-05:00

Mass produced food just isn't the same as the local produce and goods from a farmers market. Get to know the farmer and how to food is grown. There are so many reason to shop at a farmers market! Here are the top 4 reason:

Quality & Nutrition- Produce loses nutrients when it sits in storage for too long. Sometimes more preserving methods are required to keep it fresh. For example; peaches and apples will be coated with petroleum based wax and tomatoes will be picked before they are ripe. You will find better quality and fresher food from a local farmer.

Flavor- This goes hand in had with nutrition and quality. More nutrient dense food will taste better.

Environmental- The food doesn't have to travel as far to get on your plate. Better for you and better for the economy! It's great to support your small local farms.

Save Money- Most of the time you can save money on good quality food and find great deals that you wouldn't at a grocery store.

Don't have a local farmers market?

Just in time for Small Business Saturday is a new place for small businesses to thrive. At GrowFoo you can buy and sell organic food products and organic goods like; organic produce, bath & body products, spices and home items, while supporting small farms. Sign up to sell organic products, chat on the forum and shop!

Picture Credit:
www.freedigitalphotos.net

How Do You Get Breast Cancer?

2012-11-21T15:05:00.001-05:00

Over the course of a lifetime, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer! So, it is important to know the risks and stay up to date on the treatments. Some of the risk factors you cannot change are, age & gender, family history, genes and menstrual cycle.

I will elaborate more:

Age & Gender: Woman over the age of 50 are more likely to get advanced breast cancer. Woman are 100 times more likely to get it than men.

Family History: Roughly 20-30% of woman with breast cancer have a family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer.

Genes: Some gene defects make it more likely for you to develop breast cancer. Two of the most common gene defects are found in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Normally these genes produce proteins that protect your from cancer, so you can see why a defect can cause problems. One of these defects gives a woman up to an 80% chance of developing breast cancer within their lifetime.

Menstrual cycle: Getting your period before the age of 12 or going through menopause late can increase your risk for breast cancer.

There are other risk factors like radiation, alcohol use, taking DES (to prevent miscarriage), obesity and hormone replacement therapy. Also, if you have never had a child or only had one after the age of 30, you have an increased risk. Having children at an early age is healthier and safer.

What are the treatments?

Depending on the diagnosis and stage of the cancer, there is chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or surgery.

At cureLauncher, Dr. Lee Roy Morgan is working on a new drug to treat breast cancer even if it has spread elsewhere. It is a new chemotherapy drug called, DM-CHOC-PEN, that is showing encouraging results! They are looking for financial help to fund their next clinical trial. Find out more at www.cureLauncher.com.

Charge Your Car With The SUN!

2012-11-19T14:21:00.003-05:00

There are many reasons to make your next car an electric one. Not only that but by powering as many of the miles you drive with electricity generated by renewable energy...THE SUN...you can eliminate pollution! Finding ways to make use of this abundant renewable resource is so important! This option is more sustainable than any other one out there.

Nearly every penny you pay for gasoline goes into the pockets of oil companies like Texaco, Shell, Mobil, ARCO, Chevron, Exxon, etc... They'll do anything they can to ensure we continue our addiction to oil until it we use up every drop. Do you really want to be lining their pockets? They show no interest in finding an alternative fuel or something more renewable even though the end of oil is inevitable.

Solar Energy Panels

There EV evolution is evolving. There are 2,000 public stations available in the state of California. There are common misconceptions that an electric car will cost more money but you can save nearly $13,00 on fuel costs. It may cost more initially but you will get your money back in about 5-7 years and from then on it's savings. You may also think it isn't dependable, but our dependence on fossil fuels is where we went wrong. The sun will be always be shining!

Presented By Baker Electric Solar Energy Panels

Are You Looking to Install a Well?

2012-11-07T09:19:00.000-05:00

Having your water from a well will give you a fresh source of clean water free from contamination that may occur with city water. It will give you freedom and may lower your water bill.
One of the most important components of a well is the well pump. Well pumps are designed to force water from the ground into a holding tank. This storage tank contains an air bladder that regulates the air pressure. An increase in air pressure forces the water to move through the pipes in your home.

These are Grundfo S deep well pumps

There are three types of well pumps. They vary on their distance to move water and the ability to be submersed in the water underground.

Shallow well pumps- These are non-submersible and are designed to move water no greater than 25 feet. They are used when the water supply is close to the ground’s surface. They are to be installed above ground which can be within the home or a well house.
Deep well pumps- These are fully submersible and are designed to move water up to 80-90 (500 in some models) feet.
Convertible pumps- Can be converted to a shallow or deep well pump but it’s not submersible. It can move water from 25-80 feet. This still needs to be installed above ground and requires a long tail-pipe to be installed.

In most cases you may have to go a little bit deeper than 25 feet to reach water. Surprisingly, you can still do it with convertible jet pumps. Convertible well jet pumps use an extra pipe to force water through the main line. The pressure pulls the water up in a situation where a simple shallow pump, using vacuum suction, could not. Jet pumps can also be used for more than just wells. They are used often in the agricultural industry to provide fresh drinking water to animals. They can also be coupled together and used in irrigation.

This is a FloForce shallow well jet pump.

This message was brought to you by: PexUniverse.com

Toxic Chemicals in Carpet Cleaning Products

2012-10-30T22:35:00.002-04:00

Carpets get dirty fast, especially with kids and pets. But did you know that the air in your home may be more toxic than the air outside? One of the first steps to eliminating those toxins are to replace your cleaning products. You don't need harsh chemicals and fragrances to have a beautiful rug.

Here are some green rug cleaning tips:

Spot clean by sprinkling baking soda on the stain and spraying or pouring white vinegar on it. Let it bubble up and scrub it until it is gone. This doesn't leave a residue and is great for furniture too! Plus it is cheap.
Do you have an oil or greasy spot on the rug? Just coat with baking soda and vacuum it up.
Use vinegar and essential oil in a carpet cleaner instead of commercial chemicals.
For gum on the carpet, freeze with ice cubes and break off.
Use peroxide for smelly stains (ex. cat urine). Make sure to test in an inconspicuous area first to be sure it doesn't lighten the fibers.

Photo Credit: www.freedigitalphotos.net

Periodically, a carpet is going to need a nice deep clean. This will help increase the life of your carpet as well as minimize dust and allergens. You will want to find a company that does green rug cleaning. Usually they stick with biodegradable, plant based cleaners that are non-toxic and eco-friendly.

Keep the air in your home fresh, NATURALLY! :)

Brought to you by: Green Choice (NYC)

What To Do if You Are Locked Out of Your Vehicle

2012-10-30T22:12:00.002-04:00

It has happened to the best of us. Getting locked out of your car can be quite inconvenient. I have done it while my car was running. Thankfully, I was in a small town full of neighborly people and I was able to get a ride home. Now that I have children I want to be sure that I am prepared if this is to happen again, especially in the winter! It helps to keep a spare key on you and to have your cell phone in your pocket instead of a bag or purse, where it could get left in the car.

Photo Credit: www.freedigitalphotos.net

What to do if you get locked out:

Whip out that trusty cell phone!
See if someone has a "jimmy." It is a device that you slide between the window and the door. It can save you a lot of money.
Call your insurance company. Our plan covers service calls and tows. Definitely a must!
Call your local police station. Many times they will have the tools to help out. It's worth a shot if you don't have coverage through your insurance.
Call a locksmith, like Quick LockWorks, Calgary locksmith. They will be able to unlock your vehicle quickly and professionally, for a fee.
No reception? You may need to break a window especially if you have kids in the car.

Be sure your registration and license are up to date. The last thing you need is a locked car and a ticket.

Brought to you by Quick LockWorks 104-3223 83 St. NW - Calgary - Alberta - T3B 5N1 - Canada - (403) 202-7656

Tips For Growing a Bountiful Garden

2012-10-27T15:29:00.000-04:00

Growing a garden can be a time consuming and challenging project. With so many different gardening techniques and supposed tricks to growing a bountiful crop, it doesn't always work out quite like you want it to. By following the six tips below, you can better your chance of success and can count on a hearty garden before you know it!

Make compost and use it

Composting isn't a super popular approach, but can be extremely beneficial when trying to grow a garden. Composting creates an excellent soil amendment and allows you to help save the environment with less waste at the landfill. Composting might not be as difficult as you think. You can go big with kitchen, yard and garden debris or you could even do something as simple as piling shredded leaves in a corner of your garden.
Whichever compost you end up making, spread it around your plants to help ward off disease or add a small amount to a potting mix to add a slow-release of micronutrients. There are so many ways you can use compost to improve your crop growth and restore nutrients and life to soil. The best part about compost is that it's impossible to use too much of it, so you never have to worry about messing up.

Plant crops in wide beds

A mistake that a lot of gardeners make when it comes to planting is not leaving enough room for their plants to spread out during growth. But when you plant crops in wide beds, it actually cuts down on weeding, conserves water, allows the compost to be concentrated where it will do the most good and improves soil structure for future years.

Mulch

Choosing the right mulch is sometimes confusing for gardeners, especially if it's their first time growing a garden. The purpose of mulch is to moderate temperature, conserve water and avoid any type of soil borne disease from getting to the produce. When buying mulch, look for an organic kind that will rot down into the soil.

Give the soil nutrition

The growth of a plant depends on the health of the roots which get their nutrition from water and soil. Depending on the type of soil you use, for some it could be a matter of just not providing enough nutrients. If you're using soil rich in matter such as compost, you're going to get the most out of your soil and provide your plants with the best opportunity for healthy growth.

Be watchful

One of the most important and best tips for growing a bountiful garden is to be watchful and observant. Just like any other living thing, gardens need to be watched and tended to. Regardless of how busy your schedule may be, you have to understand that growing a garden is a commitment and if you're not willing to put in the time, you're not going to see results. Monitor the changes in your garden and recognize if things don't look right and you'll be able to make appropriate changes before it's too late.
Truth be told, gardening isn't as difficult as it may appear to be. By doing your research and understanding how plants grow and where they absorb the nutrients needed for growth, it could make a world of a difference. In case you need guidance, follow these tips to keep you on track and you should have a healthy garden in no time!

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Janelle Rivera has a strong passion for protecting the planet. She has even taken the extra steps to help build awareness for going green. She is now researching programs such as an llm degree to learn more about saving the environment.

Why Use Solar Energy?

2012-10-22T22:47:00.002-04:00

The sun is a massive ball of energy and it only makes sense to utilize it. There are many reasons to use solar energy especially if you are a homeowner.

Once you get past the initial cost of getting your system set up, it is nearly free!
It is better for the environment than power plants. Solar power is clean. You can have a warm home in the winter and a cool one in the summer with almost no impact on the global climate.
It can reduce your utility bills. With the cost of electricity going up who wouldn’t want to save some money? Over 50% of your electricity is going towards heating and cooling.
It can increase the value of your home since solar power lowers your heating and cooling cost!
Some states provide tax credits. You may even get incentives from your utility company.
You will be self-sufficient. No more losing power during a bad storm. Remember the sun is one of the most dependable things in our lives. You can rely on it for years to come.

Have solar electric panels installed today. With Baker Electric’s monthly payment plan there won't be any initial cost. You can actually start saving money right away. I love these examples here. You can pay off the cost of the solar panels in replacement of your monthly bill. Then once you're done, your energy is almost free.

Brought to you by: Baker Electric Solar 1298 Pacific Oaks Place, Escondido, CA 92029
1-877-5-GET-SOLAR

It's Never Too Early To Write Your Will

2012-10-22T22:11:00.000-04:00

Creating a will is one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones. The thought of death can give us the creeps but in reality we all know it will happen when it happens. If it should happen earlier than we hope, it is good to have a plan in place. This is especially important if you have children.

What if I die without a will?

A study found that 20% of Americans think the courts automatically hand over what you have to your spouse/children when you die. If you were to die without a will, you will become what is called an intestate. The state will decide who gets what. That means a judge, a complete stranger to your family, will make all the decisions. Things may not be divided the way you want them. Someone could contest and fight those decisions and there will be fees. The laws vary from state to state.

Is it expensive?

No, it is actually a very common misconception that a will is expensive. You can put together a will fairly easily as cheap as $50.

Ensure that your estate is distributed the way you see fit and avoid costly fees to your loved ones by writing a valid Texas last will and testament today.

Brought to you by: My Texas Wills 4634 Sterling Wood Way, Houston, Texas 77059
713.822.6382

Natural Ways to Relieve General Anxiety and Stress

2012-10-01T20:58:00.000-04:00

Sometimes life becomes too much and causes us to become anxious and stressed out. This can be really hard on the body, so it is important to take time for yourself to relax. There are many great alternatives to medication. Some of my favorite methods of relaxation are listening to calming music and doing yoga.

Time to get away from all electronic devices and daily stressors, so you can improve your mood and overall sense of well-being.

Spa à Montréal par Ambrosia Santé
Dive into a new world where you can let go and find your balance. At Ambrosia health center you can relax with a therapeutic massage, osteopathy, yoga, meditation, sauna with infrared lights, aromatherapy kinesitherapy, body care such as body wraps and exfoliation. You can get one on one life coaching to help with stress management and making sure you are getting proper nutrition. With 40 years of experience, the team at Ambrosia aims to a bring you to perfect balance on every level.

They are respectful to the earth and and maintain a responsible environment with; bamboo floors, VOC free paint and biological cotton sheets. Plus the price is right! For only $125 you can get a 60 minute massage for two.

Brought to you by: Ambrosia Holistic Health Center & Therapy Services in Montreal
4150 Saint-Denis, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H2W 2M5 (514) 504-7886