Brummet's Conscious Blog

Reducing Energy Costs  Today's increasing energy costs, shrinking budgets and stagnant wages are a growing concern. For those of us living in the more extreme climates that require extra heating in the winter months or relief from the blazing summer heat, there are tricks that increase comfort and lower the bills. Click to view: Part 1 of this 3-part series. Any window facing south is an asset during the winter. Make the most of the sun’s free energy and warm up your home by keeping the drapes and blinds fully open when the window receives direct sunlight, closing them when it doesn’t – especially in rooms you don’t use all that often. Washing both sides of the windows just before winter sets in ensures that film and dust do not impede the sun's rays. The opposite is true for summer – whenever a window is exposed to direct sun, it is helpful to close the blinds or curtains. We have used sheets of hot water tank insulation to seal off windows that receive direct sun in roo...

Quote of the Day  © BrummetMedia.ca "Well I remember, in my boyish days, How deep the feeling, when my eye looked forth On Nature, in her loveliness, and storms. How my heart gladdened, as the light of spring Came from the sun, with zephyrs, and with showers, Waking the earth to beauty, and the woods To music, and the atmosphere to blow, Sweetly and calmly, with its breath of balm." ~ James G. Percival ~~ Visit the Brummet's @:  http://BrummetMedia.ca ~~

Greener Lawn Maintenance Were you aware that old, defunct lawn mowers, even those that are not operating, still have some value? Remove the blade, motor, cords, wires and gas tank, leaving the four-wheeled caddy and its push handle. Secure a strong box to this and voila! – you now have a wheeled cart that is perfect for harvesting or toting material, cords or tools around the property. The metal frame of most lawn mowers is recyclable. The wheels are a treasure to those that are handy around the workshop who can turn benches, tables, gates, chairs or shelving into movable, wheeled items. The motor and remaining parts might also be appreciated at a repair shop where they could be reused or potentially recycled. There are alternatives to traditional lawns too - from wildflower mixes to low-growing ground covers that rarely need mowing. Landscaping a portion or the entire area with drought tolerant, wildlife supporting plants is a very environmentally ac...

Quote of the Day  © BrummetMedia.ca "Helped are those who create anything at all,  for they shall relive the thrill of their own conception  and realize a partnership in the creation of the Universe  that keeps them responsible and cheerful."  ~ Alice Walker ~~ Visit the Brummet's @:  http://BrummetMedia.ca ~~