National Friendship Day
Marlene Dietrich said, “It’s the friends you can call up at 4 a.m. that matter.” Call your friends today (but not at 4 a.m.) to tell them how much you appreciate them.
S’mores Day
These sticky, gooey, treats have been campfire favorites since the 1920s and make a perfect dessert for backyard cookouts. Just have lots of napkins on hand!
Financial Awareness Day
Today is the perfect opportunity to give yourself a financial checkup! Here are five tips to get you started.
Back to School Prep Day
The classroom beckons! Today’s the day to check your stock of school supplies, see what clothes still fit, and get ready for a new school year.
National Dog Day
If the dog days of summer are wearing you down, perk yourself up by spending time with an actual dog today. You’ll be glad you did.
Eat Outside Day
Whether you fire up the backyard grill or just have the pizza place deliver to your driveway, celebrate the unofficial end of summer by dining al fresco today.
Rising energy costs are eating into many Americans’ budgets, but when it comes to reducing these bills, you aren’t powerless. Here’s how to use less energy at home, save money, and go greener all at the same time.
Slay Your Energy Vampires.
Many appliances continue to consume energy when not in use. Unplug devices or use power strips that allow you to power down multiple items with one switch.
Clean Up Your Laundry Habits.
Wash clothes in cold water to save up to $66 a year. For added savings, improve your dryer’s efficiency by keeping lint traps and vents clean.
“Set and Forget” With a Smart Thermostat.
Tell this dandy device when to minimize use (like when you’re at work or sleeping). A 7-10 degree change for 8 hours a day (warmer in summer, cooler in winter) can save you up to 10% a year on your energy bill.
Recognize Bright Ideas.
Switch from incandescent light bulbs to LED and save as much as $225 a year.
Know When to Say When.
The temperature settings on your water heater, refrigerator, and freezer may be more extreme than needed. Try 38 degrees for your fridge, 5 degrees for your freezer, and 120 degrees for your water heater. Adjust if needed.