Living Well Etc.

As a small business owner, I often entertain for business and for fun during the holidays.  Since watching my budget can be a challenge, I'm always searching for ways to cut costs, especially for non-essentials like decorating .  Over the years, I've found great ways to do just that and I'm sharing all with you today.  Dollar stores offer great deals. Shopping for deals at the Dollar Store is easy if it is done wisely.  Everything is a dollar but beware not all items are worth a dollar.  I look for packages of red bows, floral, garland, and ornaments to string on a ribbon.  Floral-filled baskets are perfect for table decoration.  Many times, I find coupons on the Family Dollar Store's website, like one last year: $5 off $25 or more. Get crafty at craft stores. Luckily the craft store – Michael's – nearest us not only has sales each week but discount coupons.  Here I can find everything I need to create my own work of art or one that i...

  All Treats and No Tricks for Those Who Go Green As an avid recycler, composter, and green gardener, I use every opportunity to be green .  Halloween can be a bit tricky but offers us a chance to be inventive with our eco-friendly efforts.  Let's explore some of my favorite green and eco-friendly ways to celebrate this ghoulish holiday. Trick or Treat Goodies Treats don't always have to be food .   In fact, most candy packaging is excessive with a tiny treat packaged inside paper, packaged inside plastic, making most a non-green option.      As a retired teacher and gardener, my favorite choices are recycled bookmarks, stickers, and seed packets.   Ghostly Parties Halloween parties are a much better green option for serving organic, home-baked goodies in a safe environment.   Involving children in the planning, baking and hosting makes this an even more memorable event.   Compostable Invitations Begin by hand-deliveri...