Home Front
By Judy Stark, Times Homes and Garden Editor
Published June 30, 2007
Get a handle on your chores
Maybe you won't forget if your shopping/to-do list is hanging on the doorknob. The Handy Handle Pads are $10 for a 50-sheet pad at www.seejanework.com. (There are lots of other cool office and organizing products at this site, too.)
Dine with cutlery you can compost
Another way to go green: Avoid plastic forks and spoons, which aren't biodegradable and in most areas aren't recyclable, we learn at www.nubiusorganics.com. Alternative: compostable items, like the cutlery made by Biocorp from cornstarch and cellulose. Or bring your own, and keep a set at your desk for office lunches.
Pick Earth-friendly party supplies
Party green with these suggestions from the Rocky Mountain Institute, which is planning its 25th anniversary celebration in August and wants to set a good example for the rest of us:
- Spare a tree with recycled paper and soy-based inks for printed materials. Post event details, directions, etc., on a Web site instead of printing handouts.
- Use reusable organic cotton or hemp linens; battery-powered LED or soy candles instead of wax; potted plants instead of cut flowers; china and glassware instead of paper; and tap water instead of bottled.
Beverages served with bamboo
If you're out by the barbie (or the tiki bar) this long holiday week, brighten up your drinkware choices with these. The plastic-and-bamboo tumbler, tall glasses and pitcher are available at JCPenney, starting at $6.24.
Lighten up your house for summer
High time to add some summer to your decor. Roll up the dark area rugs and use sisal or a light-colored cotton, or leave floors bare. Store your dark- colored comforter, and switch bed linens to pale or bright colors. Take down pictures and photos in dark colors and put up florals, beach scenes and images in light colors.
Fly the flag
Learn proper flag etiquette as you prepare for July Fourth, at homes.tampabay.com.