Spring is finally here, for most of us. Although the excitement is real, your happiness might tank when you remember you have a yard to upkeep. If you can’t do much with your yard during winter, or you simply choose not to, then you probably know that you have a lot of work to do in the near future. Yard work can cost a pretty penny too, especially if you have a lot of expectations and plans for your yard. If you’re not a big planner then these ten low maintenance ideas will help you enjoy your yard even more without having to put in the work or money. So, don’t stress over getting your yard into shape, because these ideas will create a stunning look that everyone will have to compliment.

1. Consider Mulch Beds
When grass isn’t on the table and you have a yard that seems to look drab, a mulch bed is a great answer to this timeless problem. Mulch breaks down to improve on the soil in your lawn, which will allow you to grow all sorts of plants in it. Best of all, the mulch beds will give your yard a sense of definition, so it doesn’t just appear to be chaos. Mulch beds help with water consumption as they soak up water and release it slowly to the plants that are being supported in the bed. Apart from that, you don’t have to mow mulch, so you’ll save a whole lot of time in the long run. Mulch can be pricey, especially when you’re first placing your mulch beds. However, if you buy in bulk from a company or landscaper then this will save you a bundle.

2. Choose Native Plants
A lot of people tend to go out and spend a fortune on plants that they expect to grow. In some cases, the plants simply can’t grow in the climate, which forces the person to put in a lot of time, money and energy for nothing. Other times, the plants require so much water and attention that they can’t properly be kept up with. One of the best ways to remedy this problem is to stick to plants that grow naturally in your area. You can usually find a list of this information online, but if you’re having trouble then talk to someone at your local garden center. These plants are great because they will take very little effort, since they have adapted to survive in your climate. They will also help improve the natural environment, which is great for the ecosystem. Best of all, you won’t have to spend lots of time watering them.

3. Go Artificial
Grass can be a beautiful thing to grow on your lawn. However, the price of growing grass can really put a hole in your budget. If your yard is large and you’re not sure that the grass will take, then you may bypass grass altogether. If you don’t have time or the water budget to deal with grass, then this is also a game charger. However, if you love the look of grass then not all hope is lost. There’s a lot of different turfs that can be placed in yard that will not only make the yard look amazing but will also save you lots of time and money. The initial price of laying down your choice of turf might seem like a lot, but this artificial grass never needs to be mowed, water or even weeded. So, you’ll cut down on your water and maintenance budget quickly.

4. Fall in Love with Rocks
Adding rocks to the yard is one of the biggest and most cost-efficient trends around. Doing this is a great way to give your yard the landscaping you desire without having to worry about dealing with the extra things that the yard tends to require. For starters, your yard will look great without having to be watered and mowed. You may have to weed occasionally, but this won’t happen often. You can still add plants to the home too, but you will have more control over the area and can easily disguise it with rocks if the plant doesn’t make it. You can find rocks at a decent price, but you can also add to your collection whenever you go somewhere that might have a few cool rocks.

5. Pave It
Without a doubt, if you want a yard that requires you to do nothing then you may as well go ahead and pave it over. This will give you plenty of space to work out, hang out or simply ignore the great outdoors. Concrete tends to be cost efficient, so you can even hire professionals without harming your budget too much. Best of all, when the yard has been paved over, you won’t have to spend another dime on it. This pavement makes it great for above ground pools, skating, basketball and more. You can even spice things up by coloring the pavement to suit your artistic needs. You may be surprised by how cool this looks.

6. Make it Livable
Your yard doesn’t have to be all for show. In fact, you can easily move things around to suit your needs, without even considering the landscaping. For instance, if you like to host barbecues, then set out some tables, barbeque pit and other forms of entertainment. Lawn furniture is also a given, especially if you love to get fresh air in the evening. If you’re feeling like spending some money then add a pool, may it be above or below ground. Toys, workout equipment, hobby items or even just art can all make your yard look incredible too. So, don’t fret the hard work as these tips are sure to make you feel like you’ve gained an extra room.

7. Use Evergreens
One of the best ways to get more out of your yard is to utilize plants that aren’t going to phase out during certain seasons. Evergreens are one of the best options for you. These plants will make your lawn look great all year long. They also won’t force you to do any extra cleanup during the autumn and winter months, as they will maintain their beautiful green color. These trees continue to keep your home shaded no matter what time of year it is. On top of all that, they are incredibly easy to care for. You may not even have to do more than an occasional watering, depending on the area that you live. This is sure to cut back on the effort you put into your yard and will save you money since you won’t have to add new items to the yard each season.

8. DIY Barbecue/Fire Pit
If you love to spend time outdoors, then a barbecue or fire pit is sure to make your time outside even more amazing. These items cost a bundle when you purchase them at a store, but you can save big simply by building your own. There are lots of ways you can go about this too. For instance, if you’re going for a simple design that does its job, you can finish the project in less than a day. There are more intricate designs to choose from too though. Best of all, you can use your choice of brick and other supplies to make the barbecue or fire look charming in your yard. This can help save money too, as you will know what supplies you can choose based on your budget.

9. Water Smart
One of the biggest expenditures many people have with their yard is the water they use to upkeep it. There are many tips and tricks you can use to cut down on the amount of water that you use each day. One such way is to use an irrigation system. This will deliver more water to your plant with less evaporation and water waste. You can also use hydroponics, which help improve the health of your plants, but takes a bit away from the appearance. Of course, knowing more about your plants can help cut back on problems too. Many plants need different amounts of water, so watering accordingly can help you and your plants.

10. Work Slowly
Another major problem people have with their yard is they get incredibly ambitious and try to take on too much at once. This causes many people to buy plants that they don’t have time to put in the ground, which causes them to die and therefore wastes the money. Purchasing supplies upfront for projects can leave you losing money too as you don’t often know how the project will fit into your yard once you have the other items you desire in. The best thing you can do is start small and move one step at a time. This will not only allow you to follow through on projects but will help you to see how much effort is going into your yard.

This spring, you don’t have to let the nice weather inspire you to spend too much money on your lawn. These tips should help you cut back on your spending and hard work, while still creating a yard that is easy on the eyes. So, enjoy working with the land you have, but don’t let the excitement of the season force you to spend a small fortune.

On April 7, the whole world will be able to celebrate World Health Day. However, for some, it is hard to decide what to do in order to improve on one’s health. Many people actually begin to pour money into gym memberships, supplements and other items to help improve on health. You absolutely don’t have to do this though. There are so many things you can do that won’t cost you money when it comes to getting healthy. As a matter of fact, some of the items on this list might actually help you save money. So, get ready to buckle down and work on your health when World Health Day arrives.

1. Morning Walk
Walking might not seem like a lot, but it is a great way to get a head start on your health. In fact, walking at least thirty minutes a day can help you stay fitter than you would expect. Doing this in the morning is incredibly efficient too. In fact, it can kick start your metabolism, which will set you up for success throughout the day. Apart from that, going for a walk can help you clear your mind. This will reduce the amount of stress you have in your life and will help you to focus on tasks throughout the day with ease. Your morning walk will provide you with even more energy too, so you can feel like you have more stamina during your long day. Your morning walk may turn into a morning jog in no time at all, or might expand to an evening walk too. This will help you exercise more and feel confident about yourself.

2. Don’t Drink Your Calories
One huge problem that many people have with their diet is the fact that they drink so many of their calories. Juice, soda and even milk add to the calories you can’t eat during the day. These drinks tend not to fill you up either and occasionally will make you hungrier. So, it is important to try to stick with water as often as you possibly can. Water won’t count against your daily calorie intake and it might even help to suppress your appetite. So, whenever you’re feeling thirsty or hungry, grab a glass of water and see if it satisfies you. Doing this will also cut back on the amount of sugar and soda that you take in, which will help with your health immensely.

3. Try One New Recipe a Week
Many of us find ourselves in a food rut that causes us to eat an unhealthy diet. This can be a big problem if you’re trying to lead a healthier lifestyle. One way to break out of the mold is to find one new recipe a week and give it a try. Try to choose healthy recipes that are new and fresh, or recipes that use healthier alternatives for your favorite meal. If you hate the meal, then you don’t have to stress about it too much as you will return to your typical meal options for the rest of the week. If you love it, then you might add it to your monthly food rotation. The more meals you try like this, the more excited you will feel about eating healthier. Before you know it, you might have healthy recipes for most of the week. Your health will soon skyrocket, which will make your life a lot better.

4. Download Apps
Most people spend a lot of time on their smart phones, so why not use this time to improve your health. You can find an app for just about anything these days, so you have a lot of options when it comes to healthy apps. Some of the most popular apps are for fitness. These apps will help you record your activity for the day while providing workout videos as well as diet and exercise pointers. There are simple apps for recording your diet too, which will let you know how well you’re doing regarding your food to exercise ratio. Your physical body isn’t the only thing you should concentrate on when it comes to apps. You can also download apps designed to reduce your stress. There are apps designed to help with cognitive functions and memory too. With a great combination of apps on your side, you’re sure to move into a healthy state of living in no time.

5. Buy a Water Bottle
Most people aren’t drinking enough water each day. This can cause many healthy problems, which can cost you a lot of money and cause a lot of inconvenience. Using a glass to ensure you get enough water can be a huge pain too. That is why purchasing a reusable bottle is a great option. These bottles hold more than one serving, so you can go without a refill for longer. Plus, many will tell you exactly how much water you’re drinking, so you can keep track with ease. Best of all, these bottles are ecofriendly. You won’t have to worry about purchasing water while you’re out or even having water bottles on hand. This is certain to make life a lot easier. Not to mention, with all the water you’re drinking, you’ll cut back on other drinks that drain your calorie intake and add toxins to your body. It will also save you money since these drinks will more than likely be left off of your shopping list.

6. Cook Less
Another major problem we face is overcooking. Cooking at home is always a good thing, but so many people plan on meals that would fit a lot more people than they should. The excess food encourages us to waste or to overeat, both of which are a major problem. The best way to combat this problem is to cook based on recommended serving sizes. These sizes are scientifically set, so if you cook this amount you will have enough food to meet your body’s needs. For a while, you may feel hungry after meals, but your stomach will slowly shrink to the size it should be. Of course, you can also serve a salad with meals to help fill you up, as well as a dessert. You may find that you feel great having cooked the appropriate amount and your grocery bill will look a lot better too.

7. Take Time to Breath
For many people, life is always go, go, go. This not only causes exhaustion but allows stress to build up too. Rather than getting caught up in life, make sure you take time out to breathe. Taking in slow and deep breaths and then slowly exhaling them is great for your physical health. It allows the oxygen to flow gently throughout your body. These deep breaths are also great for your mental health too. By breathing like this, your body is sent signals that it can relax. This will help relieve tension and stress, which will improve your overall health.

8. Go Outside
Believe it or not, but actually spending some time outside can make you feel amazing. Of course, you should always wear sunscreen outside, even if the UV index isn’t high or you’re not planning on staying out very long. The sun and fresh air are great for the body though. Sun gives the body a burst of vitamin D, while the fresh air helps to fill the lungs with fresher and cleaner oxygen that requires them to work a little less. In fact, going outside has even been proven to reduce anxiety. You’re more than likely to exercise if you’re outside too, which will help your body burn fat and build muscle.

9. Consider Fasting
Believe it or not but fasting is also a great way to improve on your health. This doesn’t mean you should fast every day but doing something once a week or every few weeks might help you out. This also doesn’t mean you should fast all day and night. Instead, choose a twelve-hour time period to not eat or drink anything with calories. Sorry, while you’re sleeping doesn’t count! Your body will begin to function in a new way during your first fast. Your liver will improve its functions while your metabolism begins to burn fat. If you fast often, you will wind up slowing down your metabolism, so pay attention to your body. These are only a few benefits of fasting. Scientists have named many that might inspire you to ditch lunch once a week.

10. Clean House
Cleaning house is a pretty typical thing, so you might be wondering how it helps you with your health. Well, house cleaning is actually a very good form of exercise. Your body is constantly moving, yet you don’t feel the need to stop and take a breather. Cleaning the whole house can give you a workout that might even rival the gyms. Of course, there are other benefits too. For starters, cleaning gets rid of germs, bacteria, toxins and allergens from the home. With the air fresher and your surfaces safe to touch, you will already feel a lot better than you did before. Clearing up clutter can help reduce anxiety too. Plus, opening the windows and letting the house air out will help get rid of potential ailments while making you feel naturally happier.

World Health Day is the perfect time to actually begin to work on a healthier you. With these tips, you will be able to find frugal ways that not only suit your budget but work with your body’s needs. The best thing is, many of these tips aren’t difficult to follow. So, you should be on your way to better health in just a few simple days.

With the spring air finally making its way through the blustery winter gusts, many people have already moved into puppy season mode. Spring is one of the most popular times for baby animals to be in the market, may it be in pet stores, the classifieds or in your local animal shelters. However, getting a new puppy can be a very pricey thing. Luckily, there are many ways you can cut back on the price and care of the new addition to your family. This season, you may finally be able to give in to your puppy fever thanks to these amazing tips.

1. Always Adopt
One of the best things you can do for animals, your local economy and the world is to adopt a puppy. Generally, puppies you see in stores are puppy mill animals, which is a terrible practice. You will be spending a lot of money for an animal that may have many issues they have to overcome in their life. You are also funding the puppy mills even more if you wind up buying their products. Local breeders can also overcharge for their animals and may treat them poorly. Adopting a pet is a great way to show you care and it will also save a life. You may not be able to find the breed of your dreams, but the animal you choose will quickly fall in love with you. During puppy season, many shelters often hold puppy fairs, which allow locals to pick out pets for a lower price, if not free. This usually occurs when the shelter is overfull, so keep an eye out for local events or simply go to a shelter to see if there’s a match for you.

2. Think Before Adoption
Although adoption is a great option when you want to bring a puppy or older dog into the home, you still need to think it over before you do so. One of the first questions you need to answer is, “Am I ready?” If you have the time ,money, space and ability to take care of a puppy then you’re good to go. If not, then maybe put this plan on the back burner for a while. You should also consider the type of animal you can care for. Take into consideration the size of your home and yard when you think about the dog you plan to adopt. You can also consider the type of coat you can deal with. If you have allergies, then this might be a big issue. Also, you should consider how much time you have to brush and bathe your dog. Another thing to look into is the health of the breed you are bringing home. Some breeds can have major problems that you will need to care for throughout their lives, so if you don’t have the money for vet bills and treatments then this shouldn’t be an option for you. You can find basic health information on each breed online with ease and the shelter might have knowledge to share before you adopt too.

3. Crate Train
A lot of people will spend a small fortune on things to help housebreak their pet. From puppy pads to incentives, you don’t want to go this route if you’re on a tight budget and don’t have a lot of time. One of the best ways to housebreak a dog quickly is to do crate training. Generally, dogs will not use the bathroom where they sleep, thus you won’t have messes all over the place when you first bring your puppy home. As long as you take your pet out after every period of time in the crate, you should be able to form the habit that bathroom time is for the outdoors. You should also keep in mind puppies need to be taken out quite a bit if you want to avoid accidents. So, make sure to consider your dog’s age when crate training, as having your pet hold it for too long can cause physical problems.

4. Consider Obedience Training
Bad habits can be a huge problem when it comes to dogs, which is why you should nip them in the bud as soon as you possibly can. That is why training your dog right away is the best possible answer. Luckily, there are lots of obedience classes to choose from. You may even be able to sign up for one at your local pet store, which will allow you to save even more money. Of course, taking this course with your first pet is always a great idea. Plus, it will allow you to understand the basics of training, so you might not need to take it again. There are lots of free tutorials online too, to help you hone your dog training skills.

5. Vaccinate
Vaccinations are one of the major keys to health for humans and it is equally important for your dogs too. This is especially important when they are puppies, as there are many diseases that puppies can not bounce back from. Vaccinations tend to not be priced high and many adoption dogs come with their first set of vaccinations already taken care of. Generally, vets will include these shots in your pet’s yearly checkup. If you aren’t crazy about the prices your vet office offers, there are many vaccination clinics across the nation. You can even pick up some of the vaccinations at feed stores, so you can administer them for even cheaper. You will have to check with state laws to see which states you can legally administer though, as many do not allow rabies to be administered at home.

6. DIY Accessories
It is very easy to spend a small fortune on your pet, especially when it comes to their accessories. Everything from pet beds to treats and toys can be made with your own hands too. Best of all, you don’t have to spend a small fortune on these toys. You can have fun with your pet with a homemade knotted rope that will help them use their teeth to prevent chewing. Treats can be made with peanut butter and a lot of other ingredients you have lying around the house. Best of all, you can even make your own shampoo. This is perfect for dogs that tend to have drier skin and need oatmeal to ease their pain. There are numerous tutorials for all of this online, so make sure to search what you’re looking to make and have fun with the results.

7. Secure Yard
You might be surprised how hazardous your yard can be. Before you bring home a puppy, you will need to go over the yard thoroughly. One of the first things you will need to look for is a fence that might be unsecure. Your fence will need to be able to withstand the weight of your dog as many dogs tend to jump against your fence. If you are getting a larger breed, then keep in mind the height of your fence too. You should also look for holes that a dog, especially a puppy, could easily dig through. There are many other potential dangers to look for too. For instance, large sticks or rocks can be swallowed by your dog, which could lead to death or expensive surgeries. Sharp objects from tools, toys or even a shed should be worked on too, as you don’t want your puppy to wind up injured while playing on their own outdoors.

8. Play Time
Your dog is going to need lots of time to play outside and inside. This doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune on toys and whatnot though. Instead, take some time out of your day to go outside and play. Many dogs are happy with a run, a game of rough housing or even just fetch with a stick you find while you’re out. You have to think further than just keeping your dog’s body happy too. It is equally important to work on the mind. Luckily, you can make your own puzzles to keep their mind active. This will ensure you both get to have some fun for less money than you’d spend on a store-bought toy.

9. Food
Without a doubt, dog food is one of the most expensive items on your pet’s bill. This is especially true if you plan on keeping your dog on a vet approved diet. However, if you want to save money then you can always make your own dog food. Make sure to talk to your vet about diet plans before you do this though, as the vet may be able to give you some pointers based on your pet’s breeds and personal health issues. There are many recipes online to get you started though. Best of all, they won’t cost you a fortune and may even coincide with your family’s meal plan. Of course, if you are planning to buy food then it is important to stick to some of the pricier brands. Read the ingredients before you commit to a brand though, as this will let you know if it’s worth the money. The better quality foods will not only offer more nutrition, but will help prevent your dog from overeating.

10. Shop Sales
Of course, one of the most important things to do is shop sales when you have a pet. Make sure to keep an eye out for sales on food, which is the perfect time to stock up. Of course, you will also see many pet sales on toys, especially after holidays. Your dog won’t mind chewing on a toy Santa in May, so stock up when you can on items that your pet might go through fairly quickly. During the spring, you should be able to find deals on pet sweaters and other cold weather accessories. If you calculate size appropriately, you can stock up on supplies to make next winter a breeze.

Having a puppy can be pretty expensive, but it can also be a lot of fun. These tips will help you find the best way to get through the early days of puppyhood without forcing yourself to spend a small fortune. Before you know it, you’ll be living a frugal life with your new fur baby.

A teething baby can be a source of pain, frustration and fear for many parents. This often warrants them to spend a small fortune on teething supplies or doctor visits that are unnecessary. Although teething can be a hard time for children and parents, there are a few simple ways you can help ease symptoms of the problem that won’t cost you a small fortune. So, remember to take a deep breath as you work through the trying time for you and your child. Before you know it, you’ll get to enjoy a smile filled with beautiful teeth.

1. Know the Signs
One of the keys to dealing with teething is to be aware of the symptoms. If you are on your first child, then you might not know what to look out for, because teething can be quite a mystery. One symptom is a fever. Sometimes it will appear as an actual fever, while other times the top of your child’s head will radiate heat without showing a temperature on a thermometer. Babies can also develop a cough or tug at their ear while teething, which might make you think they are actually ill. Other symptoms include swollen gums, excess drooling, irritability, loss of appetite, increased appetite and restlessness. Your child is entirely unique, but you will began to learn the signs of teething after the first instance. Just make sure to comfort your child, watch out for high fevers and try to keep them as happy as possible. Knowing the signs will help you prepare for the upcoming pain faster too.

2. Freezer pops
Ice and popsicles are about to be your best friend. Cold foods will help ease the pain of your child’s gums for some time, so you might want to look up some natural recipes when you have a chance. These foods can be hard to give to younger children though, but there are ways to make your life a lot easier. For instance, begin by filling up an ice tray with yogurt, mushed banana, premade smoothies or anything else that strikes your fancy. Then stick a pacifier in each tray and freeze it. Your child will be able to enjoy the cold treat with ease. Babies that are too young for foods can enjoy the same popsicle made with breast milk or formula. Flavored ice chips can be fun for little ones that are old enough to use their fine motor skills. For toddlers, you may consider making your own popsicles out of smoothies or fruits to add a healthy solution to their teething needs.

3. Change Diet
There are some foods that simply won’t do your baby any favors when they are teething. For starters, dairy, potatoes and carbs can actually increase inflammation in the body, which will make it hard to make your little one comfortable. During this time, it is best to keep it simple with fruits, vegetables and meats. Of course, there are some vegetables and fruits that can do double duty during this time. For instance, celery and carrots are great items for older babies to munch on in order to ease the pain of teething. You can also freeze apple slices for babies to enjoy while cooling down their mouth. There are even recipes for teething cookies which can leave your baby feeling much better too while allowing them to enjoy a special treat.

4. Gum Massage
One simple way to help your baby out is to massage their gums. You shouldn’t be afraid to do this as it will help your child relax. Of course, if your child doesn’t like you doing this then don’t worry about it. You can also buy gum massagers that will do the same trick. If you do choose to massage your child’s gums or use a massager, make sure to wash your hands before doing so and sanitize the massager entirely each day. You can also use a little clove on your finger tips to work as a natural anesthetic.

5. Non-Toxic Teether
Teethers are one of the most common solutions for a lot of families. Most babies tend to take to these colorful toys. However, you might find that not all teethers are made equal. In fact, some actually have harmful chemicals that can be dangerous for your little one. This is a cause of stress you don’t really need to have, so shopping smart is efficient here. There are many great teethers on the market, so looking at reviews can help you to find the best and safest match for your child. Of course, if you don’t want to stress over it at all, then you might want to stick to a wooden teether. These are hassle free, easy to clean and the firmness will ensure your baby will feel much better.

6. Keep Feeding
If you nurse or bottle feed your baby, then don’t let the teething stop you. Try to keep it up as much as your baby needs. Some babies actually use feeding time to help relieve the pain that they are feeling. Feeding can ease pressure on the gum and may work as a way to comfort your little one. Apart from that, it will keep your baby hydrated, which is important if they have a fever. Of course, some babies won’t want to feed at all. For those babies, it is important to try to feed more often. Even getting a little bit of food in them during shorter feeding times is better than having them reject food at feedings that are further apart.

7. Distraction
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your baby is offer a few distractions to help keep their mind off of the pain. One of the best ways to do this is to give your child a soothing bath. Using lavender might help your child relax and toys will make the bath time a lot more fun. If the weather is fine, then take your children out to play. They will love getting fresh air and seeing outdoor toys will allow your child to find something else to do that will take their mind off the burning sensation in their gums. You can also do this inside by offering activities that will keep their hands and mind active. For instance, you might consider putting whip cream on their high chair tray as a small treat that the can play with. You’re sure to have lots of ideas that will suit your child’s individual needs. If you’re struggling for ideas, then make sure to look online as there are lots of fun and development friendly ideas you can try out.

8. Watch For Fever
Usually teething isn’t a dangerous process. So, you can rest easy that your child is just experiencing discomfort. However, if a fever does develop make sure to keep your eye on it. Babies need to see a doctor immediately if their fever skyrockets into the 100 range. Make sure to talk to your doctor about this before a fever occurs, so you will know exactly what to do if a fever strikes. There are many ways to help bring a fever down though. For starters, baby ibuprofen tends to help for a few hours and might even relieve some of your child’s discomfort. One home remedy that many people swear by is the VapoRub on your child’s feet. Simply smear it on before bed and place socks on the feet. The rub should help bring the fever down while your child slumbers. Keeping a fan on your child, removing clothes and giving them a cool bath are also helpful in bringing down a fever.

9. Keep Their Face Dry
When a baby begins to teeth, it is almost inevitable that they will also begin to drool. Although this really isn’t a problem you should worry about, keeping their face, neck and hands dry is. Your baby’s saliva can actually cause a rash to form if left on the skin for too long. This rash can quickly spread and cause even more discomfort for your child. In rare cases, the rash may even become infected. Keeping your child’s face dry isn’t entirely difficult though. If you keep a spit rag on hand, you should be ready to deal with the problem as it happens. There are also cute baby bandanas that look great, are safe to wear and give you easy access to a towel to wipe away drool.

10. Offer Extra Love
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your baby is give them a little extra attention and love. You can start by offering cuddles more often, especially if your baby wants to be held often during this time. You may consider watching a movie with your little one or pulling out their favorite story to read to them. Talking to your child can also be soothing and will help your child feel assured that everything is okay. If your child enjoys singing, then do it a little more often.

A teething baby can make the whole house feel terrible. For a little one, it is not only uncomfortable but a little scary. These ten tips should have you armed and ready to deal this painful aspect of growing up. Before you know it, the teething phase will be over, and everyone will be able to rest easier.

Easter is on its way, which might leave you scrambling for a few things to do as a family. Easter is one of the easiest holidays to find events for, which can help save you time and money. One of the best things about this holiday is you can find something Easter related around every corner, so you won’t have to look far. In case you’re shy on time, here’s ten great ways to make the most out of the Easter holiday. You might even be able to span the holiday out into a few different days. Best of all, you won’t have to spend a lot of money to make these Easter plans a reality.

1. Community Egg Hunt
Egg hunts are one of the most famous ways to enjoy Easter with your children. These activities are usually fairly cheap to host at home, but if you want to add even more fun to the event then you might want to head to a community egg hunt as well. You can find these hunts all over the place. For starters, your community center might host its own giant egg hunt, so make sure to look up the information so you won’t miss out. Apart from that, you should see a lot of egg hunts pop up at churches around the community. Most churches will welcome you in with open arms, so your kids can participate in all of the fun. If you’re feeling daring, you might travel to community egg hunts around the area, as most towns won’t schedule hunts all at the same time. This will help your kids get the most out of the holiday.

2. Join a Potluck
If your budget is a little short this year, then you can make up for it by joining a potluck for Easter dinner. There are actually many public potlucks that will pop up around the community. You might start by checking with your community center to see if the town will be hosting one. You may also check with local churches to see what is going on there too. During this time, it is entirely possible to plan on going to more than one potluck on Easter, which will help make the day even more exciting. Apart from that, you might try to plan a potluck with friends or family, or attend someone else’s potluck. There are many cheap dishes you can make too, which will make the price even more affordable.

3. Watch Easter Shows
The weather isn’t always cooperative during Easter, which might leave you stuck inside. One way to remedy the cabin fever blues is to watch a few Easter shows. If you have cable, then you will probably be able to find a few cartoons or movies with ease. You can even broaden your search to include shows that are mainly about rabbits. If you don’t have cable, then don’t fret. Usually movie rental kiosks keep up with the holidays, so you should be able to find something fun to watch for a relatively low price. Streaming networks also like to have holiday themed movies in their queue, so it shouldn’t take you long to find something fun. You may even want to look into renting some movies online, as you may even be able to get more recent blockbusters. Of course, these will cost more than other Easter or religion-based movies, but it might be worth it if it entertains the family.

4. Have an Egg Dying Party
Dying eggs is a major part of the Easter holiday, so you might not want it to pass you by. You can add even more fun by having people over for a dying party. Everyone can bring a few supplies to the party to help cut down on the cost of things. Eggs might be one of the best requirements for the party as you will need more to accommodate the extra people. Dying eggs can be fairly cheap, so you won’t have to fret the price. You can even go natural here, especially if you plan on eating the eggs after the big hunt. There are many natural recipes that will have everyone excited to try them out.

5. Visit a Real Farm
Nothing will make your kids feel closer to Easter than paying a visit to a real farm. This will allow them to see the way that real bunnies and chicks live their lives, which will add to the fun of the occasion. A lot of farms will host Easter events to bring in extra holiday income too, so you might want to look into local farms to see if anyone is. Of course, if you do plan on going to a farm, make sure you make arrangements to do so on a day that isn’t actually Easter. This will allow the family running the farm to enjoy their holiday too. Before you make plans to do this, you might also see if the farm charges for tours, or if they just allow people to check out certain areas of the farm for free. This can help prevent you from making a plan that might end up costing you more than you’d expect.

6. Volunteer
If you’re looking for a great way to make a difference then volunteering is a fantastic Easter activity. There are so many ways you can help out for the holiday. One of the more obvious options is to volunteer at a soup kitchen. This will allow you to work with people that could really use your help. You may also want to volunteer for a church. Usually, during this time of the year, they work to pass out food baskets, visit those in nursing homes and hospitals, or simply come up with activities for kids. If you’d like to keep things simple, then you may consider hiding eggs for the community event. This is one of the options that might help you have a lot more fun. If you’re really feeling ambitious, then you can always volunteer to be the Easter Bunny.

7. Enjoy Crafting
Easter is a fun time to pull out the crafting supplies and get to work. You can really have fun with Easter ideas, but you don’t have to stick to this theme. In fact, you may want to create a few crafts to celebrate Spring too. There are so many craft ideas online, that you’re sure to have some fun with whatever you create. One quick example would be making an Easter Bunny rock pet to keep the kids excited about the holiday. You can also make bunny masks using construction paper and paper plates. When you’re done crafting, you might consider taking some of the crafts to a local children’s hospital to help lift the spirits of those that can’t go Easter egg hunting.

8. Visit the Easter Bunny
If you have small children in your home, then visiting the Easter Bunny is a great tradition. If you’re willing to pay a little money, there is usually an Easter Bunny available at most malls. However, you may be able to see the bunny for free if you don’t want pictures. Don’t let the price tag detour you though, as there are many Easter Bunnies you can see. If your community is hosting an event then there will most likely be an Easter Bunny there too, so the kids should be able to enjoy seeing him or her then. These events tend to be free too, so you can enjoy seeing the bunny without having to stress about hidden fees. Seeing the Easter Bunny may even allow your kids to receive a special treat, which will make their holiday even more fun.

9. Make Easter Bunny Treats
The Easter Bunny does a lot for your kids, so why not allow them to make a few treats for the bunny? This can work a lot like leaving Santa Claus cookies and other treats on Christmas. You can keep it realistic by leaving out a tray of carrots for the Easter Bunny, or you can have a little fun with your baking skills. For instance, one fun idea is to make Rice Crispy eggs and bunnies. These are fun to decorate and make great snacks too. You can also leave special cards for the bunny to say thank you for leaving eggs behind. Your imagination and your children’s are the limit here, so have some fun with it.

10. Practice Forgiveness
Easter is all about forgiveness, which might be the best way for you to enjoy the holiday. It is hard to practice forgiveness all of the time, especially when someone hurts you. So, Easter might be the best time to begin the forgiveness process. This doesn’t mean you have to do it all at once though as it can be quite hard. However, if you start the motions of forgiving then you will begin to feel a weight lift off of your shoulder. If you have children, then try to practice forgiveness in front of them. This will begin a good habit, so they do not harbor anger or frustration in adulthood. You may also teach them why we practice forgiveness during this holiday.

Easter is a fun holiday that doesn’t have to be another holiday based on consumerism. These ten ideas will give you something fun and engaging to do around the holiday, so you can make the most of the occasion without spending a lot of money. You may even begin to find new meaning in the holiday as you spend more time with your community.

There’s no doubt about it, hosting a wedding is stressful and expensive. One of the major issues with weddings is trying to figure out what you want to serve for the reception meal. Catering can be incredibly pricey, especially when you’re looking at serving traditional foods like seafood, pricey cuts of beef and the numerous side dishes, appetizers and drinks. Luckily, there’s a few alternatives that won’t just help your budget out but will also allow you to put a little bit of your personality into your wedding meal. So, don’t stress about the size of the cake or printing our chicken or beef tickets just yet, as you may soon want to change your mind about what you’re going to serve after reading these cheaper suggestions.

1. Skip the Cake
Hands down, the wedding cake can be one of the most expensive items on the menu. Not to mention, it takes a long time to plan out. Then, there’s always the stress of the cake being dropped or bumped into before you can even cut into it. You can really end the pain of the wedding cake blues by skipping this tradition altogether. A great alternative is to order cupcakes instead. With these, you can have a variety of flavors to appease a larger crowd. Plus, you can arrange them in such a way that people will forget all about the wedding cake. If you still long to have a touch of tradition, you might consider having an anniversary cake made for you to cut into and freeze for your first anniversary. This will help you feel like you’ve followed the reception rules, while still allowing you to save a whole lot of money and stress.

2. Pasta Buffet
If there’s one food that is absolutely filling that costs next to nothing to make, it’s pasta. You can spice up your reception meal by setting up a pasta bar for everyone enjoy. You can use all sorts of pastas to make the meal easy to customize. Even large portions of pasta won’t take away from your budget too much. Of course, you might have to spend a little more money on the sauces and accessories like meatballs, breads and salads. However, even this splurge won’t compare to the high price of hiring a caterer for traditional wedding foods. The best thing about this is sauces can be made in bulk at home the day before and pasta can be whipped up just before the reception begins. This food caters to a wide variety of people too, so complaining will be minimal.

3. Taco Bar
Spice your reception up with a taco bar for the meal plan. This can add so much fun to the day. Plus, taco bars will help people unwind from the formal occasion, so they will be more willing to loosen up and have a good time at the reception. Taco bars can be executed fairly cheaply when you look at the cost of food per person. It also allows you to appeal to a greater audience. You can have beef, chicken, fish and even vegetarian or vegan options. If you need to hire a caterer, you still can save big on the event. Usually, local caterers can offer you a reasonable price per head, opposed to the price you would pay for traditional foods. The best thing is tacos are entirely portable too. So, people will be able to mingle while enjoying their food.

4. Snow Cones
If you’re having a short reception or even one later in the evening, then you can easily get away with snow cones as your food of choice. These are an amazing choice in the summer time and will add some fun to the reception. You can easily set up an ice station for next to nothing, which will certainly make this food option a frugal choice you’ll love. Apart from that, you can make your own juices to go along with the treat. You won’t need more than a few pitchers to take care of this requirement, which can be fulfilled for less than a couple of dollars if you use powdered drink mixes. Apart from that, you can rent or even buy an ice shaver to make the snow cones without breaking your budget. You will be surprised how happy your guests will be with this unusual food option.

5. Grilled Cheese
Make life even simpler for yourself when you serve grilled cheese as your main dish. These sandwiches will go over great with most people as they are the perfect comfort food. You can really mix things up with a grilled cheese too. For instance, having a variety of breads and cheeses will allow everyone to satisfy their taste buds. You might want to bring in a vegan options too for those that can’t handle lactose or have animal products. Apart from this, you should have a variety of condiments to enhance the flavor of the sandwich. As far as sides are considered, you can easily enjoy light soups or chips.

6. Breakfast
One of the easiest meals to plan and cook for is actually breakfast. This cheap meal can help add a quaint touch to your wedding, which everyone will love. If you’re planning a rustic or western theme then this is a great option for you, but it will also work on any wedding you plan. Keep things simple by whipping up scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages and biscuits and gravy. These foods are all filling and will cost a whole lot less than you’d pay for a caterer. You can have your family help out with this meal too, as people can work on griddles to heat up the breakfast meats and eggs. If you’re looking to make things even more exciting, then set up a waffle or pancake bar. People will love adding fruits, whipped cream and a variety of syrups to their favorite breakfast foods.

7. Pizza
If you want to appease most people at your reception then pizza is a quick, easy and delicious option. You can easily set up a pizza buffet to make life a lot easier during your reception. You might consider renting a pizza oven or using a large wood grill to help make your dish up in a hurry. If you’re willing to do the work for yourself then make and roll up your dough in advance. This will allow your helpers to toss on toppings and put it in the oven on the day of the big occasion. You can make pizzas that suit all of your guests too. Making your own pizza isn’t pricey either, especially when you break down the ingredients. Of course, if you want to cater the meal then you can get exceptional deals from local pizza places, which can save you big time. Make sure to let a shop know well in advance if you have a huge order coming up.

8. Baked Potatoes
One of the cheapest options around is baked potatoes. This can be a filling meal that will allow everyone to enjoy their own personal preferences with very little complaint. This is one of the easiest food options to execute on your own too. All you need to do is wash a bunch of potatoes, wrap them in foil and let them cook. You can even have someone begin this process the morning of the wedding and store them in the oven until it is time to serve them. Of course, you will definitely need things to go on the potato too. You will want to grab butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, chili, broccoli, bacon and anything else that comes to mind. People can decorate their own potato, which will save you even more time.

9. Smores Buffet
When it comes to desserts, you’ll be excited to share smores with the ones you love. This dessert is another great option for rustic, western or even nature inspired weddings. Smores are very cheap to make and will allow everyone to have more control over the desserts they are eating. You can set out a simple smores bar with a variety of different cookies, chocolates, flavored marshmallows and even some fillings. People will love trying different mixtures, which can be used as an activity as well as a dessert. Of course, you might design your smores bar so that children don’t have access to the flame used for the foods. Apart from that, the buffet is a simple and easy option for frugal budgets.

10. Finger Foods
Of course, finger foods are also one of the best options for a reception. This will show people you’re not really providing them with a full meal, so people will eat a lot less. Finger foods are perfect for afternoon weddings as they give everyone a chance to eat lunch after all of the fun is over. The first thing to consider is mini sandwiches, which can be made by hand before the party. You don’t have to get too fancy here, especially on a tight budget. Vegetable and fruit platters are also a simple option and will let everyone feel healthier at your gathering. Apart from that, you might consider mini corndogs, pretzel bites and other simple foods to eat with your hands. You can also make tiny desserts like cheesecake bites, fudge and other simple but delicious options.

Weddings are incredibly stressful when it comes to getting exactly what you want for less. Food is one area that you might not want to stress over as much. These ten ideas will help you keep the cost of your food budget down while satisfying your guests. So, have a little fun with the big day by taking pressure off yourself to serve foods that tradition says you should. Instead, embrace your personality and own personal preferences to offer an out of the box solution to your food needs.

Although spring is still a few weeks away, some schools have already scheduled Spring Break. This can be a tricky time for every family because it is a full week in which you need to keep your kids busy in order to completely avoid chaos. This can be very tough if you’re on a tight budget that doesn’t have a lot of wiggle room for vacations and entertainment. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to cut back on the amount of stress you have during this time. These quick tips will help you find something entertaining for the family to do together, so you can avoid all the mishaps of a vacation as well as the price.

1. Vacation at Home
Vacationing at home or having a staycation can really help the family relax without forcing you to fork over a whole lot of money. One of the more common ways to have a staycation is to rent a hotel and pretend to be a tourist for a day or two. Staying in a hotel will help you avoid heating and cooling costs for the week and will give you access to a pool that will keep the kids busy for free. Of course, if your budget doesn’t allow you to do so, you can always just explore your community as if you’re on vacation. You never know what little secrets you’ll uncover, which might be something you plan on frequenting with your family in the future. You can keep things even cheaper by pitching a tent in your backyard and having a campout without the fees that go along with it. No matter what you do, try to keep the environment as vacation friendly as possible.

2. Visit Grandparents
Another cheap option, in most cases, is to take a visit to grandma and grandpa’s house. This will allow the kids to have some bonding time with your parents. Often, this is a great time for parents to unwind and feel a little nostalgic about their childhood. However, it can also be a great time for children to learn about their roots. If your family lives close by then this is a simple day trip that won’t cost you a whole lot. Of course, if they are far from your home then you might want to make sure to stay at your parent’s home, which will allow you to save on hotel costs as well as food money. Make sure to treat them to a little break too by cooking and cleaning.

3. Take in a Movie
Movies are a great way to help the kids clear their minds after working so hard at school. It is also a quiet activity that will help you get some peace of mind too. Often, theaters will have deals during Spring Break to entice people to stop by. This might be your best chance to catch up on some of the new releases that your kids have been wanting to see. Of course, you don’t have to go to the theater if it isn’t in the budget. Rather, you can watch movies that you already own. This activity is easy to spice up with snacks like popcorn, candy or healthy alternatives. If you’re bored with your movies, then there’s always cheap rental kiosks or online rentals you can stream in your own home. You might even be able to rent a few blockbusters that haven’t made their way to DVD yet.

4. Enjoy a Park
If the weather permits, then a park is a great way to keep the kids entertained at no extra price. You can let the kids run loose to play on the park’s equipment or simply to enjoy the large fields that are perfect for running and their favorite sports. You might also want to consider purchasing or making a kite to fly at the park. The spring wind is one of the best times to let your kite loose. If it’s free to go fishing then grab a few poles or make your own. Whatever you decide to do, make sure to stop and smell the roses as spring is the perfect time to enjoy life and engage in a better connection with Mother Nature.

5. Hang out at the YMCA
The YMCA is a great asset when it comes to Spring Break. This amazing facility will probably offer extra classes as well as day camps to help make Spring Break less boring for your children. The YMCA is great about offering sports facilities for children, which will help your children run off their excess energy. Apart from that, there will more than likely be arts and craft activities too. If your child is struggling in school, then you might see if your YMCA is offering tutoring sessions during the break, so your student can get a jump start on the new school year. The swimming pool is always usually open during this time, especially if it is indoor, so you can take advantage of this aspect of the club during the break too.

6. Help Around the House
One of the best ways to make the break efficient is to have your children work on chores. This will help keep them busy and active, so they won’t get as bored easily. Of course, you can always try to make the chores fun by creating games that they will enjoy. This will allow you to get your Spring Cleaning done in a hurry, which will make life a lot easier for the whole family. You might want to make sure the chores are age appropriate or it may create even more work for the whole family. Apart from indoor chores and common activities, the kids might have a lot of fun working in the garden. This is the perfect time to get the garden started and will allow you all to enjoy the fruits of your labor faster. Another fun chore is to paint rooms that might need a fresh coat. You can usually get a good deal on paint at this time, so it might be fun to let the kids redecorate for a fresh start they will enjoy throughout the rest of the school year.

7. Sign Up For Spring Activities
The spring time is usually pretty busy when it comes to activities. Spring Break is a great time to sit down and discuss the activities that your family would like to sign up for. You might not limit your discussion to just spring activities though, as it is also a great time to plan ahead for summer and autumn. Once you get a good idea of what your children would like to do in their spare time, you might find out when sign ups are for the sports they are interested in. You may also want to check out the prices for dance, martial arts and musical courses. Once you have everything ready to go, you can work on a time table to help everyone get on a schedule that will suit each activity. Since you won’t have homework and other tasks to stress about over this week, you can easily knock this difficult task out of the park in no time.

8. Community Events
Usually, the community comes together to offer events that are exciting for kids to enjoy. You might want to check out your community center’s website to see what will be going on during their vacation week. They tend to offer events that are either family friendly or great for certain age groups. Many of these include arts classes, story time and movie screenings. You might also find a festival or fair planned around this time. Generally, these events are cost efficient too, so you won’t have to worry about spending a small fortune to keep the kids happy.

9. Mini Trip
Another way to keep the kids happy during the break is to take them on a mini road trip. You can map out a quick trip over a few counties, drive to a nearby town or simply head to the countryside for a picnic. The distance you go depends on your budget, so you don’t have to stress about overdoing it. If you want to spice things up, come up with a scavenger hunt to keep the kids’ minds active while they are sitting. You can also create fun games to keep them occupied. Make sure to take frequent stops for the kids to stretch their legs too. There are a few great tips to help make road tripping with kids fun and convenient, so make sure to utilize them if you’re driving further than an hour or so.

10. Jumpstart Homework
Your kids might not be happy about it, but you should have them work on their homework each day. Many teachers enjoy assigning homework before spring break begins, so students have a large project to get through during the break. This can be frustrating, but also convenient as it gives your child something to do in order to keep their mind active. Even if your child doesn’t have homework, you should create some for them. This is especially important when it comes to mathematics as students may forget what they learned over the course of a week. Creating a reading goal can also make spring break fun, especially since the book can be your child’s choice, rather than their teacher’s. If you can get your child to sit down and work on their homework for at least 30 minutes, they should be able to transition back to school with ease and will have less on their plates after the break.

It’s hard to keep kids busy during Spring Break, especially if you aren’t planning a vacation. Luckily, these ten ideas will work to help keep them busy on a tight budget. So, you can forget all about the headaches you pictured getting while the kids are home, as they will be so busy you’ll almost forget they’re home.

St. Patrick’s Day is already right around the corner, which means it’s time to scour your wardrobe for any remnants of green clothing you might have from previous years. If you’re a little low on the green clothing, or you simply want to take things to a new level this year, then you might want to check out these ten tips. These tips will help you find the perfect solution to your St. Patrick’s Day attire without forcing you to spend a fortune on a new item that you’re probably only going to wear once. So, keep things stylish this year with one or more of these fashion-savvy tips.

1. DIY Leprechaun Hat
One of the first things that many people think of when St. Patrick’s Day comes to mind is leprechauns. These mythical creatures have become a huge part of the holiday, which might inspire you to show off your love for them. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune on a green top hat to show how much you love leprechauns. There’s actually a variety of different hats that you can make with supplies that you find at home, like paper, tape and old fabric. May it be the classic top hat inspired design or a more low-key bowler hat style, there are plenty of tutorials to check out online. These tips are great for preparing children for the holiday too and might even become a family craft project that they will look forward to every year. You can even try out different tutorials for each member of the family to see which tutorials you like the best.

2. Refurbish Shirt
If you don’t have a green shirt in your wardrobe and you’re in a pinch, then don’t hesitate to refurbish one of those old white shirts you have collecting space. You can do this in so many different ways so make sure to have a little fun with it. One of the first ways to make a bold statement is to take an old shirt and dye it green. You can do this with special clothing dyes or simply place it in a pitcher of green Kool-Aid. There’s no doubt that you’ll make a statement with your green shirt. If you’re feeling like you’d like a little more detail in your style, then grab some fabric paint or a permanent marker and have some fun. You can even print out a stencil to make the shirt look more professional.

3. Makeup
Clothes aren’t your only option on St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re feeling creative, then you might want to showcase the holiday with your makeup. You can keep it simple by using items that feature green, gold and glitter. However, if you’re looking to make a bold statement then you might want to check out some ideas online. There’s lots of tutorials that can help you figure out some fun tricks. You can also use your own imagination. Many people have created bold green styles that pay homage to their Celtic roots, while others choose a more modern style with rainbows and pots of gold. No matter what you choose to do, you’re certain to get some compliments.

4. Clovers
A simple way to show your love for the holiday without going overboard is to add a clover or two to your attire. You can easily pick a clover from your yard or local park to help keep this idea as frugal as possible. If you don’t have access to a clover in your area, then you should be able to find one at a local department store or craft store. Some vendors might even sell them specifically for the holiday. If purchasing isn’t option, then don’t give up. This beautiful piece of Mother Nature can be made out of paper or fabric for a more durable look that people will love. No matter what kind of clover you obtain, it can be pinned on your shirt or blouse, placed on a hat or even put in your hair for a festive style.

5. Costume
Some people really get into St. Patrick’s Day. If you don’t want to settle for anything less than spectacular, then make yourself a costume for the holiday. You can dress up as a leprechaun, a pot of gold, St. Patrick, himself, or anything else that makes you think St. Patrick’s Day. The great thing about St. Patrick’s Day is you can make many costumes from items you already have at home. Many of the costume items can even be crafted out of paper to make life even cheaper. Of course, if you have an old Halloween costume lying around then this can work in your favor too. Try to have a little fun with the costume to make your holiday even more memorable.

6. Stick-Ons
Another easy solution to St. Patrick’s Day attire is a simple stick-on. This is a great item for when you’re in a pinch. For instance, if it totally slips your mind that St. Patrick’s Day has finally arrived, then you can print out a stick-on and place it on your clothes to help you from getting pinched. Stick-ons can be found all over the internet, so you can find a cool look that suits your personal style. However, if you don’t want to print then you can probably find stickers or even buttons at your local department or craft store. Sure, you probably won’t look as festive with a stick-on, but you won’t get pinched either. Plus, people might really admire your fun slogan of choice.

7. Accessorize
Your green item doesn’t have to be in your clothing. You can always use your favorite accessories to show off your touch of green for the day. For instance, clover earrings or even a Claddagh ring would add a nice touch to your St. Patrick’s Day style. If you don’t have Celtic jewelry, then you can still look cool. Try adding a green scarf or one covered in lucky clovers, pots of gold and more to your favorite look. You can also add a festive tie to your business style to make the right statement. Socks are another great option. Shoe laces can add some fun to your look too. No matter what you choose, your style will stand out with the right accessories.

8. Utilize Wardrobe
There’s no reason to go out and buy something new for St. Patrick’s Day if you don’t have to. Chances are you have something in your wardrobe with a touch of green on it. Perhaps, it’s a holiday shirt from years ago, or a shirt involving your favorite sports team. No matter what it is, try to use it in your attire for the day. You will be surprised how well you can utilize items you already have that you may have thought you’d never wear again. Not only will this save you money, but it will give you the opportunity to wear a new look. You might even consider using this time to create a crazy style that will turn heads for the day.

9. Shop Thrift Stores
Of course, there are some wardrobes that simply don’t have any green in them. If you’re looking for something to wear that is pretty cheap then you might want to check out your local thrift store. Shopping for clothes at a thrift store can really be a treasure hunt. Not only are you sure to find cool clothes that are green, but you might find a few designs that you’d want to use in your every day life. You may even come across St. Patrick Day specific clothes that can add fun to your day. Don’t forget to look past the everyday clothing items too, as you may be able to find green jewelry, belts and other accessories to make the outfit look well put together.

10. Clearance Buys
If you don’t mind going without this year, then you might want to hold off on shopping for holiday attire right now. The day after St. Patrick’s Day, you will see all of the clothes hit the clearance rack. This will give you an advantage for next year when it’s time to celebrate the holiday. Of course, if you are willing to risk going out without green clothes then you can always see if there are any sales on items the day of the holiday. You may find that party supplies will slash the prices on props and other items just before the holiday, so you might want to grab these deals while you can.

Dressing up for St. Patrick’s Day can be a lot of fun. These ten tips will help you choose a wide variety of ways to show off your green style without spending a fortune. This will allow you to have some fun with the holiday instead of worrying about your budget.

2018 is a great time to help make the planet a better place to live. One of the best ways to do this is to support the wild life in your area and around the world. World Wild Life Day is a great time to work on improving the world for the animals that we share it with. Unfortunately, many of the things we can do to help the animals can cost an arm and a leg. This should be no cause for worry though, as there are so many little things that you can do that will leave the world a better place. So, on March 3, you might want to start practicing some of these ideas, so you can protect wild life and improve on the world’s overall quality.

1. Monitor Garbage
Garbage is one of the biggest problems in the world right now. There is so much pollution in the world that it is causing many animals to become displaced or their habitat to become a danger zone. One of the first things you can do is begin with your plastic consumption. If you can, try to avoid using plastic bags at the grocery store as these often end up in oceans and aren’t biodegradable. You should also look for trash bags that are biodegradable, so you don’t have to create more long-term waste than necessary. Creating a compost is another way to help cut back on the waste in the world and will benefit local plant life. Apart from that, you should always cut plastic rings, so they won’t get wrapped around animals and marine life. There are other ways to help in your own area too. For instance, you should always secure your trash and recycling can so that local animals can’t get into them.

2. Plant Local Species
More often than not, local species end up taking the back burner because people would rather have roses and other plants that are considered to be beautiful in their yard. Although these plants are nice to have, you might want to consider adding a few plants from the local species too. Local plants often help the wildlife in the area as they provide food and shelter. Some of these species are also going extinct, so by planting them you’re doing your part to not only save the species but help preserve the natural habitat of the region.

3. Visit Sanctuaries and Reserves
There are a lot of sanctuaries and reserves in the world, which are designed to help preserve habitats and keep animal life thriving. These sanctuaries and reserves often charge a small fee or ask for a donation when people pay them a visit. This can help keep the area funded so that the animals can keep their land and slowly move off of the endangered list. The areas should be entirely respected when visited though, so make sure you leave all potential litter in your car. You may not know you are even in a reserve at times as there are places on the beach that are designated for turtles, birds and more. So, always be aware of your surroundings when you’re in an area that might host an endangered or at-risk species.

4. Learn About Endangered Animals
One huge thing you can do is actually sit down and learn about the endangered species in your area and around the world. Knowledge is power and simply knowing which animals you need to support can do a lot for the world around you. Of course, you should also spread this information to others, which is certain to help make the knowledge widely available. If everyone is willing to do their part to learn and respect the animals, then we are one step closer to helping prevent extinction. It is especially important to learn about the species in your area though as this is where you can do the most good.

5. Consider Donating
Money is a great way to help out with endangered animals, but you don’t have to give thousands to make a difference. You might want to put in a little research to see which animal or program you would like to donate to. Once you have decided then give a small amount, you can always come back later to give more. Make sure you hold onto your receipt too as you can use it to deduct taxes later on. There are some programs that allow you to “adopt” an animal. This doesn’t mean you get to bring the animal home, but the money you send each month goes to support the animal and others. This is a great way to feel more connected with the program, so you will feel as if your money is making a change in the world.

6. Avoid Possessions Made with Animals
Unfortunately, there are still many products on the market that use animal parts to make big money. Ivory, for instance, is one of the most popular items that has put many animals on the endangered special list. You can find ivory in all sorts of things, including pianos and jewelry. The fur trade is still a major problem too. Tigers, panda bears, and more are constantly poached to have their furs sold to anyone willing to pay the high price. Of course, there are other animals that are killed for their skin too, so if you’re buying fur then you’re helping support poachers in their endeavors. Another popular novelty item that you should avoid is rabbits’ feet. Although these aren’t as popular as they once were, they are still a business that requires the needless slaughter of many animals.

7. Slow Down
Believe it or not, but your car can be one of the biggest enemies to those on the endangered list in your area. Many people don’t think twice about going fast in certain areas, but if you’re not careful then you might end up hitting an animal on the list. If you’re driving in an area that isn’t habited, then chances are an animal might stop and cross the street at any given moment. Make sure you slow down in these areas and be aware of what’s going on around you. There have been many cases when even a bald eagle has been hit by a vehicle, so you never know what might come your way when you’re moving fast.

8. Research Companies
There are still so many companies that use animals to research the products that we use every single day. Cosmetics, hair products and dental hygiene products are some of the worst culprits out there. Worst of all, it isn’t always clear on the label which products are tested on animals. So, if you have a new brand that you would love to try out, then make sure to do some research on them first. Usually, company websites will give basic information on their products, but if you feel like they’re hiding something then check out an organization that fights for animal rights. These organizations are usually fast to jump on a company if they are testing on animals. If you avoid these brands, they might get the message and stop testing on animals.

9. Be Green
Living a greener life is another simple way to do your part to help the animals out. On the top of your list should be conserving energy and water. There are many simple ways to do this, like skipping showers and cutting your showers back to just a few minutes. You might also want to consider black out evenings to conserve energy. Shopping for products that conserve energy are also very important. You should always recycle when you can too. This is very important for the environment and will help cut back on your carbon footprint while allowing animals to keep their natural habits litter free. Cutting back on driving can also help the planet and animals out. So, this year, you might decide to dedicate your time to making your home and life a lot greener.

10. Volunteer
Helping out the animals can be as simple as volunteering to help out at a place that cares for animals. This can be a zoo, aquarium, conservation, animal shelter or more. You can do just about anything that you’re able too. You might be asked to clean up after animals, feed them, pick up garbage or even assist a veterinarian. No matter what you choose to do, it will be making a difference in the life of animals that need a little assistance. Of course, you don’t just have to volunteer at a venue. You can clean up a park, plant trees or other natural species and so much more. This activity could also be as simple as setting out water for animals or even making a cold weather shelter. No matter what you do, the world will be a better place because of it.

World Wildlife Day is the perfect time to show your appreciation for the animals that we share the world with. May it be helping out a stray cat or doing your part to stop ivory sales, your help won’t go unnoticed. These ten ideas should give you an idea as to what you can do to help out without blowing your household’s budget.