Monday, May 19, 2008
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Recycling in Cass & Crow Wing Counties...
I've been trying to recycle 'some' things for quite awhile now....like donating my no longer needed clothes and misc. household items to local shops who sell them really cheap, or taking some of my household things to the Transfer Station in Pine River. For years now we've recycled our pop cans, taking them to Pine River and getting money for them. The rest of the stuff has gone in the trash....until recently when I set up my recycling bins in the hall closet. (see my previous post for a pic of that).
Little by little I'm trying to become a little greener with the products I buy, make, etc, and going organic with some things. The whole 'organic' thing can be a little confusing when shopping for items in the store tho, and knowing that I can't just trust what the label says has prevented me from going full-boar with it for fear of spending more for an item that's not actually any better (and sometimes worse!) than a lower-priced non-organic labeled item. But that's another subject for a future writing, after I do a whole lot more research on it.
What I want to write about today is where I take my recycling, so those of you who live in this area will have a better idea of the where's and how's of going about it yourself. My hope is that you'll join me in my quest to turn a little greener! Ü
For real good info on what, how, and where to recycle, go here: http://www.co.cass.mn.us/esd/solid_waste/pdfs/solidwasterecycling.pdf
Here's another place you can chek out on the internet to list what you don't want anymore, or chek out what someone else has listed to see if you want it:
http://www.co.cass.mn.us/esd/matex/cass_available.html
It's called the North Central Materials Exchange - MATEX, and here's what it says about it:
Cass, Crow Wing, and Hubbard counties have teamed up with the Minnesota Materials Exchange program to offer exciting new opportunities to reduce waste and to reuse materials in northern Minnesota.
See local MATEX listings for Cass, Crow Wing, and Hubbard counties.
The materials exchange (MATEX) program is based on the concept that one company's waste product could be another company's raw material. Through a Materials Exchange, companies and organizations can reduce their waste disposal costs by finding other companies, organizations, schools or individuals which could use these waste or surplus materials in their processes or programs. The main purpose of the exchange is to connect businesses and organizations that have reusable goods with those who need them.
Advantages of Materials Exchange:
*Less material enters landfills
*Participants can locate valuable materials and feedstock free or at reduced cost, locally and statewide
*Participants can profit from reduced waste disposal costs and from sale of items which would otherwise have been considered "waste"
*Service is free
*Materials Exchange programs conserve resources
*Participants become more environmentally responsible
Businesses and organizations may list usable materials they no longer need on the exchange. Participants may also check the listings for items that they could use in their processes, programs, or services. For example, maybe your business did some remodeling and you have leftover supplies. Those items could be offered on the exchange and a school could use your leftovers in their drama department.
The MATEX will help to match up items wanted with materials available. The participants make final exchange and transportation arrangements with each other. The materials are not physically collected by MATEX for storage or transfer. The service provided by MATEX is free, although a fee may be charged by the listing party for some of the materials.
Contact Info: The MATEX office is located in the Cass County Environmental Service Department at the Cass County Courthouse, Box 3000, Walker, MN 56484. You may call (218) 547-7428 or FAX (218) 547-2440 or contact the office by e-mail to request a form or to list over the phone.
Listing on MATEX: Your information will be listed on the regional exchange. The listing of materials wanted and materials available will be available at the Environmental Service or Solid Waste Departments of Cass, Crow Wing and Hubbard Counties or sent out by e-mail for those requesting that service.
In addition to the regional service, participants are encouraged to check the listings on the statewide Minnesota Materials Exchange Alliance. Call the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MN TAP) at 1-800-247-0015.
Any business, organization, school, non-profit group governmental unit or individual may list with this service at no cost. Some businesses prefer to distribute on a large scale only and may not be willing or able to work with individual residents. However, if the opportunity exists, individual residents may also make use of the service.
Participation is not limited to those in Cass, Crow Wing or Hubbard counties. Anyone may contact this or any other MN TAP affiliated Materials Exchange Program. It is the intent of the exchange programs to encourage the reuse of materials and to reduce the amount of waste or surplus materials entering landfills and other municipal solid waste facilities.
Another place I like to use is the Cass County Transfer Station, located just north of Pine River on Hwy 371. It's on the west side of the highway, across from Pine River Tire. If you'd like to call them for more info, their number is 218-587-3500.
If you have furniture or other household items (not clothing!) that you no longer want but is still in working condition and you think someone else might be able to use it, just take it there and drop it off! You can also stop by just to look to see if there's anything you might want there. Ü They keep the garage door open most of the time (just to the right of the number 1 on the building), but if you happen to go there and the door is closed, just call them and they'll open it for you. Everything is free for the taking in there!
Here's a picture of the place so you'll know what to look for:
Go here for information on the Household Hazardous Product Exchange:
http://www.co.cass.mn.us/esd/solid_waste/hazardous_product_exchange.html
They're always happy to give products away to people who will use them rather than waste tax dollars to dispose of good materials, so if you have leftover paint or stain, etc from a project you've been working on, you can donate it there. They do ask that you call them first to make an appointment tho, because they want to make sure it's still a good product. Worth the extra effort if you ask me! Ü
Here's what their website says...
If there is still product left over that you could not use up:
Do not throw it in the garbage. Please call us for an appointment and bring the remaining material back to us.
Do not simply bring the stuff back and leave it in the product room. We have to check out any product that comes into our building. Call 587-3455 or toll free at 1-888-910-2425 ext. #2 for an appointment.
If the containers are empty, leave the lids off!
Allow empty metal paint cans to dry. Leave the lids off and either place in recycling bin with other cans or throw in your garbage.
Empty aerosol cans may be placed in recycling bins or thrown away in garbage.
Allow plastic paint pails to dry, and then throw in garbage, not in recycling bins.
Metal cans for paint thinner, charcoal lighter fluid, etc, may be recycled when can is dry and empty. Be sure to leave the cover off.
Plastic containers for paint thinner and other products can be thrown in garbage. Leave lids off.
And last but not least....check out your local freecycle group! If you're not in this area, just go to http://www.freecycle.org/ and either click to browse the groups for different areas, or type the area you're interested in into the search box. It'll tell you about YOUR local freecycle group and how to join it. More and more folks are signing up for this group every day, and it's a great way to advertise something to give away or ask for something you're looking for. Everything is FREE!! No money is exchanged at all.
Here's where you can find the group for Cass & Crow Wing County Freecycle: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Cass-CrowWingMNFreecycle/
Well, that's about it for today! Please take a few minutes to check out these websites and learn more about how YOU can recycle!
Until next time!
AuntyB
Little by little I'm trying to become a little greener with the products I buy, make, etc, and going organic with some things. The whole 'organic' thing can be a little confusing when shopping for items in the store tho, and knowing that I can't just trust what the label says has prevented me from going full-boar with it for fear of spending more for an item that's not actually any better (and sometimes worse!) than a lower-priced non-organic labeled item. But that's another subject for a future writing, after I do a whole lot more research on it.
What I want to write about today is where I take my recycling, so those of you who live in this area will have a better idea of the where's and how's of going about it yourself. My hope is that you'll join me in my quest to turn a little greener! Ü
For real good info on what, how, and where to recycle, go here: http://www.co.cass.mn.us/esd/solid_waste/pdfs/solidwasterecycling.pdf
Here's another place you can chek out on the internet to list what you don't want anymore, or chek out what someone else has listed to see if you want it:
http://www.co.cass.mn.us/esd/matex/cass_available.html
It's called the North Central Materials Exchange - MATEX, and here's what it says about it:
Cass, Crow Wing, and Hubbard counties have teamed up with the Minnesota Materials Exchange program to offer exciting new opportunities to reduce waste and to reuse materials in northern Minnesota.
See local MATEX listings for Cass, Crow Wing, and Hubbard counties.
The materials exchange (MATEX) program is based on the concept that one company's waste product could be another company's raw material. Through a Materials Exchange, companies and organizations can reduce their waste disposal costs by finding other companies, organizations, schools or individuals which could use these waste or surplus materials in their processes or programs. The main purpose of the exchange is to connect businesses and organizations that have reusable goods with those who need them.
Advantages of Materials Exchange:
*Less material enters landfills
*Participants can locate valuable materials and feedstock free or at reduced cost, locally and statewide
*Participants can profit from reduced waste disposal costs and from sale of items which would otherwise have been considered "waste"
*Service is free
*Materials Exchange programs conserve resources
*Participants become more environmentally responsible
Businesses and organizations may list usable materials they no longer need on the exchange. Participants may also check the listings for items that they could use in their processes, programs, or services. For example, maybe your business did some remodeling and you have leftover supplies. Those items could be offered on the exchange and a school could use your leftovers in their drama department.
The MATEX will help to match up items wanted with materials available. The participants make final exchange and transportation arrangements with each other. The materials are not physically collected by MATEX for storage or transfer. The service provided by MATEX is free, although a fee may be charged by the listing party for some of the materials.
Contact Info: The MATEX office is located in the Cass County Environmental Service Department at the Cass County Courthouse, Box 3000, Walker, MN 56484. You may call (218) 547-7428 or FAX (218) 547-2440 or contact the office by e-mail to request a form or to list over the phone.
Listing on MATEX: Your information will be listed on the regional exchange. The listing of materials wanted and materials available will be available at the Environmental Service or Solid Waste Departments of Cass, Crow Wing and Hubbard Counties or sent out by e-mail for those requesting that service.
In addition to the regional service, participants are encouraged to check the listings on the statewide Minnesota Materials Exchange Alliance. Call the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MN TAP) at 1-800-247-0015.
Any business, organization, school, non-profit group governmental unit or individual may list with this service at no cost. Some businesses prefer to distribute on a large scale only and may not be willing or able to work with individual residents. However, if the opportunity exists, individual residents may also make use of the service.
Participation is not limited to those in Cass, Crow Wing or Hubbard counties. Anyone may contact this or any other MN TAP affiliated Materials Exchange Program. It is the intent of the exchange programs to encourage the reuse of materials and to reduce the amount of waste or surplus materials entering landfills and other municipal solid waste facilities.
Another place I like to use is the Cass County Transfer Station, located just north of Pine River on Hwy 371. It's on the west side of the highway, across from Pine River Tire. If you'd like to call them for more info, their number is 218-587-3500.
If you have furniture or other household items (not clothing!) that you no longer want but is still in working condition and you think someone else might be able to use it, just take it there and drop it off! You can also stop by just to look to see if there's anything you might want there. Ü They keep the garage door open most of the time (just to the right of the number 1 on the building), but if you happen to go there and the door is closed, just call them and they'll open it for you. Everything is free for the taking in there!
Here's a picture of the place so you'll know what to look for:
Go here for information on the Household Hazardous Product Exchange:
http://www.co.cass.mn.us/esd/solid_waste/hazardous_product_exchange.html
They're always happy to give products away to people who will use them rather than waste tax dollars to dispose of good materials, so if you have leftover paint or stain, etc from a project you've been working on, you can donate it there. They do ask that you call them first to make an appointment tho, because they want to make sure it's still a good product. Worth the extra effort if you ask me! Ü
Here's what their website says...
If there is still product left over that you could not use up:
Do not throw it in the garbage. Please call us for an appointment and bring the remaining material back to us.
Do not simply bring the stuff back and leave it in the product room. We have to check out any product that comes into our building. Call 587-3455 or toll free at 1-888-910-2425 ext. #2 for an appointment.
If the containers are empty, leave the lids off!
Allow empty metal paint cans to dry. Leave the lids off and either place in recycling bin with other cans or throw in your garbage.
Empty aerosol cans may be placed in recycling bins or thrown away in garbage.
Allow plastic paint pails to dry, and then throw in garbage, not in recycling bins.
Metal cans for paint thinner, charcoal lighter fluid, etc, may be recycled when can is dry and empty. Be sure to leave the cover off.
Plastic containers for paint thinner and other products can be thrown in garbage. Leave lids off.
And last but not least....check out your local freecycle group! If you're not in this area, just go to http://www.freecycle.org/ and either click to browse the groups for different areas, or type the area you're interested in into the search box. It'll tell you about YOUR local freecycle group and how to join it. More and more folks are signing up for this group every day, and it's a great way to advertise something to give away or ask for something you're looking for. Everything is FREE!! No money is exchanged at all.
Here's where you can find the group for Cass & Crow Wing County Freecycle: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Cass-CrowWingMNFreecycle/
Well, that's about it for today! Please take a few minutes to check out these websites and learn more about how YOU can recycle!
Until next time!
AuntyB
Saturday, May 3, 2008
My Winter Quest...
Is it spring yet??!
The winter here at AuntyB's Place has been a long, hard one, to say the least. I haven't posted much on this blog (as you can see!), my time has been spent taking care of different health problems, putting in more hours at work, spending what time I can with my Yahoo! group family, trying to get my financial life in order, searching the net for information & how-to's, trying (and sometimes failing miserably!) to keep up with the daily chores, and in my spare time playing catch-up with all of the above!
Times have been getting a little tighter here in my neck of the woods, and since it looks like it just might have to get a little worse before it gets any better, I decided it was time I do my part to improve myself and the way I live. So...
I've been on a winter-long learning quest! They say you're never too old to change your ways, so I've decided to give it a shot. Ü
First thing was my health...As you know, I'm a type 2 diabetic. Have been for 18 years now. Had some low blood pressures (which is normally low to begin with) along with some low blood sugars (was always either too high or too low...go figure!!), and the combination sent me into a seizure a couple times, so a few months ago they put me on the insulin pump...which I dreaded for a long time but now find myself wishing I'd have given in to the idea a long time ago! I have to wear it 24/7, and can only take it off for 1 hour a day to shower, but it's done wonders for my blood sugar levels! It's not quite the pain I thought it would be to sleep with either, and it's a whole lot easier to keep track of my blood sugars and keep them from going too high (or too low). I've been doing a lot of research on living healthier and I've learned a lot over this past winter. Things aren't completely 'normal' yet health-wise, I'm not exactly the 'picture of health', and I'm not eating quite as healthy as I should be, BUT....I'm working on it! Still haven't given up my almost nightly ice-cream habit, but I've been working on just about everything else and starting to change a few bad habits at a time...so
GIVE ME A BREAK, ALREADY! hehehe
Had another battle with the kidney stones. Last time I had them was 11 months ago. Not sure what's causing them, but this round was a long one! The pain lasted 8 whole days, passing stones several times a day. In the beginning, I swear I was peeing sand! I know, I know...too much information! *lol* All seems to be well with that little pain in the kidney now. (knock on wood!) Education on this subject is still in process tho.
Another problem was my financial situation. Sheesh. What a mess that was! Between all the medical bills, prescriptions, lack of discipline when going shopping (credit card in hand, of course!), you name it....I ended up WAY too stressed over the bills I had created and felt like there was no way out. (which also shot my blood sugars down, creating more health problems, and continuing the vicious circle I was spinning uncontrollably inside of.) Did a lot of research on how to get a handle on my debt, made a few phone calls to see what I could do and who, if anyone could help me, then I finally went to my local credit union (turned out to be the best option for me), told them my situation, and asked them for a loan to consolidate everything and just have one small monthly payment. Aaaaahhhh...what a relief when they said "Of course! We'll draw up the papers." So, at an interest rate of 5.49% instead of 12% and 20% (which I was paying on my different bills) and a monthly payment of less than I was making on just the credit card alone, I'm finally well on my way to financial freedom. I'm telling you, there is no better feeling! No amount of shopping has ever felt THIS good! And I plan to keep it that way! Ü No more credit cards for AuntyB. If I can't pay cash or save up for it, I don't need it. Period. The lack of stress over money problems is one thing I plan to continue for sure!
Which brings me to the rest of my quest for a healthier, happier life...
I've also been doing a lot of research on Living Greener, Recycling, being more Self-sufficient and Stress-free, and avoiding chemicals as much as possible. I'd like to get back to the basics...back to nature, so to speak. Of course, I won't go so far as to give up my running water or electricity! hehehe And my cell phone and internet are definate keepers, too! Ü
I've learned quite a bit on a lot of different subjects (with still quite a bit more to learn!) and I've been doing a little experimenting here and there with a few things, and now that I've got a little more time I decided I'd pass on what I'm learning as I learn it, and let you know how it's turning out for me, if it's turning out at all! hehe
If you have any pointers to share, please do so! I can use all the help I can get!
I'm trying to recycle more now, so I can get rid of the trash man. He seems like a nice guy and all, and I know he needs to make a living too, but I'm getting a little tired of having to pay him 75 bucks every couple of months just so he'll stop by and take out the trash. Ü
I bought some recycling bins that are stackable for 7 bucks each at Mills Fleet Farm in Baxter. They were the cheapest I found and seem to be of good quality. I didn't stack them as I had planned, but they're working out well where I ended up putting them. Now it's just a matter of getting use to putting what where! *lol* We have recycling bins within 5 miles from me, so that'll be easy to deliver myself. The non-recyclables will go to our local dump or in the trash bins at our local Oasis center in Pequot for $3.50 per large bag. Not too bad for the amount of actual trash I should have to dump there! Ü I'm not sure what it costs to take bags directly to the landfill yet.
With gas prices the way they are and no relief from that in sight, I'm trying to cut down on my trips to town and doing more errands when I do have to go. The local coffee shop is saving their coffee and tea grounds for me for free, so I can add them to my compost pile for my gardens. I'll pick those up on my errand day. Right now I've just got a compost pile out back, but I'm thinking about vermicomposting. That's composting with worms. I've read that you can store them in your kitchen and they don't stink at all! We'll see tho. Hubby isn't too fond of the idea of having worms under the kitchen sink. hehehe
I'm raising chickens for their eggs and meat, plus stocking up on things from the store when they're on sale and buying bulk whenever I can. Ü I got some free 5 gallon and 2 gallon buckets with lids from the bakery at Jerry's Super Valu grocery store in Pine River, and the Pine River Dairy Queen told me I could stop by there and get all I want for free, too! So I'll use those for storing some bulk things. If I have to, I can pay 2 bucks for each 5 gallon bucket with a lid at Scaefer's grocery store in Nisswa, or 1 dollar each at the bakery in town on Main street in Pine River. But only if I HAVE to. Ü
I've always liked to buy my spices in bulk. I get those at the Country-side Co-op in Hackensack. I keep them in different sized jars in the basement, then just refill my spice containers in the kitchen.
I'm even thinking about getting a goat for milk! Not sure if I even LIKE goat milk tho, so I plan to try some from someone else first....just in case! *lol* I'm a skim milk drinker, but at just about 4 bucks a gallon it's getting a little sickening!
I'm also experimenting with making my own cleaning products. I've done this a little bit for awhile now with regular cleaners, but now I'm into making laundry products. I'll let you know about those in my next writing. It'll probably be a long one!
Until next time...
AuntyB
Here's a pic of the Recycling Bins I set up in the hall closet. Each one is labeled so we know what goes in which bin...
The winter here at AuntyB's Place has been a long, hard one, to say the least. I haven't posted much on this blog (as you can see!), my time has been spent taking care of different health problems, putting in more hours at work, spending what time I can with my Yahoo! group family, trying to get my financial life in order, searching the net for information & how-to's, trying (and sometimes failing miserably!) to keep up with the daily chores, and in my spare time playing catch-up with all of the above!
Times have been getting a little tighter here in my neck of the woods, and since it looks like it just might have to get a little worse before it gets any better, I decided it was time I do my part to improve myself and the way I live. So...
I've been on a winter-long learning quest! They say you're never too old to change your ways, so I've decided to give it a shot. Ü
First thing was my health...As you know, I'm a type 2 diabetic. Have been for 18 years now. Had some low blood pressures (which is normally low to begin with) along with some low blood sugars (was always either too high or too low...go figure!!), and the combination sent me into a seizure a couple times, so a few months ago they put me on the insulin pump...which I dreaded for a long time but now find myself wishing I'd have given in to the idea a long time ago! I have to wear it 24/7, and can only take it off for 1 hour a day to shower, but it's done wonders for my blood sugar levels! It's not quite the pain I thought it would be to sleep with either, and it's a whole lot easier to keep track of my blood sugars and keep them from going too high (or too low). I've been doing a lot of research on living healthier and I've learned a lot over this past winter. Things aren't completely 'normal' yet health-wise, I'm not exactly the 'picture of health', and I'm not eating quite as healthy as I should be, BUT....I'm working on it! Still haven't given up my almost nightly ice-cream habit, but I've been working on just about everything else and starting to change a few bad habits at a time...so
GIVE ME A BREAK, ALREADY! hehehe
Had another battle with the kidney stones. Last time I had them was 11 months ago. Not sure what's causing them, but this round was a long one! The pain lasted 8 whole days, passing stones several times a day. In the beginning, I swear I was peeing sand! I know, I know...too much information! *lol* All seems to be well with that little pain in the kidney now. (knock on wood!) Education on this subject is still in process tho.
Another problem was my financial situation. Sheesh. What a mess that was! Between all the medical bills, prescriptions, lack of discipline when going shopping (credit card in hand, of course!), you name it....I ended up WAY too stressed over the bills I had created and felt like there was no way out. (which also shot my blood sugars down, creating more health problems, and continuing the vicious circle I was spinning uncontrollably inside of.) Did a lot of research on how to get a handle on my debt, made a few phone calls to see what I could do and who, if anyone could help me, then I finally went to my local credit union (turned out to be the best option for me), told them my situation, and asked them for a loan to consolidate everything and just have one small monthly payment. Aaaaahhhh...what a relief when they said "Of course! We'll draw up the papers." So, at an interest rate of 5.49% instead of 12% and 20% (which I was paying on my different bills) and a monthly payment of less than I was making on just the credit card alone, I'm finally well on my way to financial freedom. I'm telling you, there is no better feeling! No amount of shopping has ever felt THIS good! And I plan to keep it that way! Ü No more credit cards for AuntyB. If I can't pay cash or save up for it, I don't need it. Period. The lack of stress over money problems is one thing I plan to continue for sure!
Which brings me to the rest of my quest for a healthier, happier life...
I've also been doing a lot of research on Living Greener, Recycling, being more Self-sufficient and Stress-free, and avoiding chemicals as much as possible. I'd like to get back to the basics...back to nature, so to speak. Of course, I won't go so far as to give up my running water or electricity! hehehe And my cell phone and internet are definate keepers, too! Ü
I've learned quite a bit on a lot of different subjects (with still quite a bit more to learn!) and I've been doing a little experimenting here and there with a few things, and now that I've got a little more time I decided I'd pass on what I'm learning as I learn it, and let you know how it's turning out for me, if it's turning out at all! hehe
If you have any pointers to share, please do so! I can use all the help I can get!
I'm trying to recycle more now, so I can get rid of the trash man. He seems like a nice guy and all, and I know he needs to make a living too, but I'm getting a little tired of having to pay him 75 bucks every couple of months just so he'll stop by and take out the trash. Ü
I bought some recycling bins that are stackable for 7 bucks each at Mills Fleet Farm in Baxter. They were the cheapest I found and seem to be of good quality. I didn't stack them as I had planned, but they're working out well where I ended up putting them. Now it's just a matter of getting use to putting what where! *lol* We have recycling bins within 5 miles from me, so that'll be easy to deliver myself. The non-recyclables will go to our local dump or in the trash bins at our local Oasis center in Pequot for $3.50 per large bag. Not too bad for the amount of actual trash I should have to dump there! Ü I'm not sure what it costs to take bags directly to the landfill yet.
With gas prices the way they are and no relief from that in sight, I'm trying to cut down on my trips to town and doing more errands when I do have to go. The local coffee shop is saving their coffee and tea grounds for me for free, so I can add them to my compost pile for my gardens. I'll pick those up on my errand day. Right now I've just got a compost pile out back, but I'm thinking about vermicomposting. That's composting with worms. I've read that you can store them in your kitchen and they don't stink at all! We'll see tho. Hubby isn't too fond of the idea of having worms under the kitchen sink. hehehe
I'm raising chickens for their eggs and meat, plus stocking up on things from the store when they're on sale and buying bulk whenever I can. Ü I got some free 5 gallon and 2 gallon buckets with lids from the bakery at Jerry's Super Valu grocery store in Pine River, and the Pine River Dairy Queen told me I could stop by there and get all I want for free, too! So I'll use those for storing some bulk things. If I have to, I can pay 2 bucks for each 5 gallon bucket with a lid at Scaefer's grocery store in Nisswa, or 1 dollar each at the bakery in town on Main street in Pine River. But only if I HAVE to. Ü
I've always liked to buy my spices in bulk. I get those at the Country-side Co-op in Hackensack. I keep them in different sized jars in the basement, then just refill my spice containers in the kitchen.
I'm even thinking about getting a goat for milk! Not sure if I even LIKE goat milk tho, so I plan to try some from someone else first....just in case! *lol* I'm a skim milk drinker, but at just about 4 bucks a gallon it's getting a little sickening!
I'm also experimenting with making my own cleaning products. I've done this a little bit for awhile now with regular cleaners, but now I'm into making laundry products. I'll let you know about those in my next writing. It'll probably be a long one!
Until next time...
AuntyB
Here's a pic of the Recycling Bins I set up in the hall closet. Each one is labeled so we know what goes in which bin...
Friday, November 23, 2007
The Angel Card Project...
Angel Card Project....If you haven't heard of this yet, you need to go chek it out!
Every year lots of folks come together to spread a little holiday cheer by sending Christmas cards to those less fortunate, sick, elderly, lonely, Military, and anyone else who might need a little spiritual lift! It's all strictly volunteer, and nobody makes any kind of money from doing this. It's a great way for some of us to 'give a little back' by bringing a smile to someone who may not otherwise have much reason for that this year.
If you're interested (and I hope you are!) in sending out some holiday cheer, and you agree to the following guidelines, just click on the link above for more information and to sign up!
2007 Guidelines
1. This is strictly a volunteer project. If you sign up, you are doing it because you have a good heart. :o)
2. You may send out a card to one person or all persons. It's entirely up to you! There is no set number of cards for you to send out. Just do so as you are able and as your heart leads you.
3. This project is designed for CARDS to be sent to those on the list. Nothing else is required. ONLY CARDS. If you choose to send other items such as gifts, etc, please remember that you do so on your own accord and it is not part of this Angel Project. I know that at this time of year there are so many with tender hearts and they want to do more. But remember that these are coming from you, a stranger, to the Special people we are trying to help. So we don't want to overwhelm them too much nor cause them any alarm. So I would strongly urge that you stick to just cards!!
4. You may address your cards from and sign them from yourself or you can say they are from Santa, a secret angel, etc. That one is up to you. In the past, a lot of folks have sent them saying they are from the North Pole. :o)
5. Please remember to be RESPECTFUL. This is a project to bring cheer. So remember that when you are sending out cards.
How it Works for Volunteers:
1. Email Mark to sign up to be a Card Angel (there's an email link at the website)
2. On or around the Weekend of December 8th, 2007, he'll send an email to all of the volunteers who sign up to be Card Angels.
3. In that email, there will be a link for you to access that will have the names, addresses and stories of all of the people that we will be sending cards to this year. You can send a card to one person, a few, or all if you like!
4. You can print that list if you would like. Once you have the list, then you get your Christmas Cards from a store or make them yourselves (which can be fun!).
5. You fill them out however you would like, address & stamp them, put them in the mail, and YAY!!! You've just touched someone's life in a very positive way! :o)
Every year lots of folks come together to spread a little holiday cheer by sending Christmas cards to those less fortunate, sick, elderly, lonely, Military, and anyone else who might need a little spiritual lift! It's all strictly volunteer, and nobody makes any kind of money from doing this. It's a great way for some of us to 'give a little back' by bringing a smile to someone who may not otherwise have much reason for that this year.
If you're interested (and I hope you are!) in sending out some holiday cheer, and you agree to the following guidelines, just click on the link above for more information and to sign up!
2007 Guidelines
1. This is strictly a volunteer project. If you sign up, you are doing it because you have a good heart. :o)
2. You may send out a card to one person or all persons. It's entirely up to you! There is no set number of cards for you to send out. Just do so as you are able and as your heart leads you.
3. This project is designed for CARDS to be sent to those on the list. Nothing else is required. ONLY CARDS. If you choose to send other items such as gifts, etc, please remember that you do so on your own accord and it is not part of this Angel Project. I know that at this time of year there are so many with tender hearts and they want to do more. But remember that these are coming from you, a stranger, to the Special people we are trying to help. So we don't want to overwhelm them too much nor cause them any alarm. So I would strongly urge that you stick to just cards!!
4. You may address your cards from and sign them from yourself or you can say they are from Santa, a secret angel, etc. That one is up to you. In the past, a lot of folks have sent them saying they are from the North Pole. :o)
5. Please remember to be RESPECTFUL. This is a project to bring cheer. So remember that when you are sending out cards.
How it Works for Volunteers:
1. Email Mark to sign up to be a Card Angel (there's an email link at the website)
2. On or around the Weekend of December 8th, 2007, he'll send an email to all of the volunteers who sign up to be Card Angels.
3. In that email, there will be a link for you to access that will have the names, addresses and stories of all of the people that we will be sending cards to this year. You can send a card to one person, a few, or all if you like!
4. You can print that list if you would like. Once you have the list, then you get your Christmas Cards from a store or make them yourselves (which can be fun!).
5. You fill them out however you would like, address & stamp them, put them in the mail, and YAY!!! You've just touched someone's life in a very positive way! :o)
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Pine River Garden Club Craft Day, 2007
As some of you know, I'm a member of the Pine River Garden Club. We're not a really large group, but we're growing! Every year we do some kind of craft project for our homes as a winter display. Usually it's been wreaths, but this year we decided to try our hands at making birch log candle centerpieces. We had a lot of fun, even tho some of us had no idea what we were doing! *lol* Click on the arrow in the box below to chek out a slideshow of some pictures I took of us & our projects! And by the way...if you live in this area and you're interested in joining or just coming to a meeting to chek us out, send me an email and I'll give you the details!
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Monday, November 12, 2007
Stone Woman Herbals
I stopped by one of my favorite stores this morning and thot I'd share it with you. If you're looking for all natural products....Vitamins, Herbs, Stones, Teas, Healing & other Health & Beauty Essentials, chek out the Stone Woman Herbals store in Pine River. I just love that place!!
It's right on Main Street, between Hardware Hanks and Al's Bakery. They use to be located in Hackensack, but moved to Pine River this summer. Now it's so much easier for me to shop there!!
When you first walk in, you feel at home with the country porch setting of a couple of rocking chairs and some books you can look thru. Their Essential Oils book is the best book of its kind, in my opinion! It tells about which oils to use for what ailment, etc. Very informative!!
Further into the store you'll find very neatly organized shelves of natural products, vitamins, pampering products and brochures of information on different subjects. This picture is the back end of the store. The jars on the back wall are herbs.
The folks who run/own this store are very nice people. (Kris & Dan Kayser)
If you want to know anything, just ask them! If they don't know the answer they'll try to help you find it!
You can also email them at: stonem@uslink.net , or call them at: 218-587-5900.
By the way....I'm not affiliated with them in any way. I'm just a regular customer who wanted to let folks know about one of the great local places I like to shop! Ü
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Hidden Jewels in Pine River, Minnesota!
An article in our local newspaper was recently published about a community thrift store I support. I wanted to share it with you in case you have anything you'd like to donate, or if you're ever in need. They have clothing and other household related items. Read on.....
Center embraces PR-Backus
INITIATIVE AWARDS: OUTSTANDING NONPROFIT
By JODIE TWEED
Staff Writer
PINE RIVER - If the Pine River-Backus Family Center had arms, they would stretch out into a giant hug, encompassing the entire community.On Friday, the family center will be honored by the Initiative Foundation as the 2007 Outstanding Nonprofit for doing what it does best - listening and filling the needs that exist within the community.The center, one of five in Cass County, was established in 1996 with funding from the Initiative Foundation as a way to combat teen pregnancy in the community. Its programs now include drug prevention and education, youth summer programs, parent education, home visitation and basic family support. About 2 1/2 years ago, the family center opened the Hidden Jewels thrift store. The center was looking at ways to diversify its revenue stream to support its many programs and also realized a thrift store that was needed in Pine River.
Brenda Biever (left), manager of the Hidden Jewels Thrift store, and Leslie Bouchonville, executive director for the Pine River-Backus Family Center, recently looked over items for sale at the thrift store, which is part of the family center in downtown Pine River. The store provides revenue for the family center's programs and also serves a need in the community. Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls
Leslie Bouchonville, the family center's executive director, said there aren't a lot of shopping opportunities in Pine River, so local families usually travel to the Brainerd/Baxter area to shop. This can create a serious hardship for families living in poverty who can't afford the gasoline to travel to Brainerd, much less purchasing clothing for the entire family.Brenda Biever-Burbach, Hidden Jewels store manager, said prices are kept affordable on purpose. The most expensive item you'll find in the store costs $4.95. Most items cost 97 cents. A nice sweater may cost $2.95, she said.
Mary Plouffe, a part-time worker at the Hidden Jewels thrift store in Pine River, organized the shelves of dishware at the thrift store. The thrift store charges no more than $4.98 per item and most things cost 97 cents. Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls
All the items are donated from Pine River and surrounding cities. When a family loses its home in a house fire, the family center is there to offer their help with clothing and other items. A single mom with children may stop in and find a nice selection of school clothes for children of all ages. No one is turned away for an inability to pay."We're here to help the community," Biever-Burbach said. "I don't know another community that reaches out to the community like this."Bouchonville said the family center is more than just a store. People stop in to see what's new in stock, browse the ever-changing inventory and chat with other customers and volunteer staff. It's also a non-threatening entry point for individuals and families to learn about the other services the family center provides. The store has about 40 to 50 customers on a typical day and brings in about $26,000 a year to support family center programs.
Doris Knott, a part-time worker at the Hidden Jewels thrift store in Pine River, marked donated clothing earlier this month at the thrift store. Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls
Bouchonville said it's an honor to receive the award from the Initiative Foundation."The award is not only about the staff and the board, it's about the community," Bouchonville said. "I think it speaks to Pine River and Backus and how everyone is working together to make it a nice place to live. It's exciting."The thrift shop is in dire need of volunteers to help sort incoming donations and help with the store, Bouchonville said. The store has a nearby storage room that is filled with items that need to be sorted and priced. The family center also is looking for donations for its Christmas For Kids toy drive, which provides Christmas gifts for families in need in the community.
The Hidden Jewels thrift store is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesdays.
JODIE TWEED may be reached at jodie.tweed@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5858.
Center embraces PR-Backus
INITIATIVE AWARDS: OUTSTANDING NONPROFIT
By JODIE TWEED
Staff Writer
PINE RIVER - If the Pine River-Backus Family Center had arms, they would stretch out into a giant hug, encompassing the entire community.On Friday, the family center will be honored by the Initiative Foundation as the 2007 Outstanding Nonprofit for doing what it does best - listening and filling the needs that exist within the community.The center, one of five in Cass County, was established in 1996 with funding from the Initiative Foundation as a way to combat teen pregnancy in the community. Its programs now include drug prevention and education, youth summer programs, parent education, home visitation and basic family support. About 2 1/2 years ago, the family center opened the Hidden Jewels thrift store. The center was looking at ways to diversify its revenue stream to support its many programs and also realized a thrift store that was needed in Pine River.
Brenda Biever (left), manager of the Hidden Jewels Thrift store, and Leslie Bouchonville, executive director for the Pine River-Backus Family Center, recently looked over items for sale at the thrift store, which is part of the family center in downtown Pine River. The store provides revenue for the family center's programs and also serves a need in the community. Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls
Leslie Bouchonville, the family center's executive director, said there aren't a lot of shopping opportunities in Pine River, so local families usually travel to the Brainerd/Baxter area to shop. This can create a serious hardship for families living in poverty who can't afford the gasoline to travel to Brainerd, much less purchasing clothing for the entire family.Brenda Biever-Burbach, Hidden Jewels store manager, said prices are kept affordable on purpose. The most expensive item you'll find in the store costs $4.95. Most items cost 97 cents. A nice sweater may cost $2.95, she said.
Mary Plouffe, a part-time worker at the Hidden Jewels thrift store in Pine River, organized the shelves of dishware at the thrift store. The thrift store charges no more than $4.98 per item and most things cost 97 cents. Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls
All the items are donated from Pine River and surrounding cities. When a family loses its home in a house fire, the family center is there to offer their help with clothing and other items. A single mom with children may stop in and find a nice selection of school clothes for children of all ages. No one is turned away for an inability to pay."We're here to help the community," Biever-Burbach said. "I don't know another community that reaches out to the community like this."Bouchonville said the family center is more than just a store. People stop in to see what's new in stock, browse the ever-changing inventory and chat with other customers and volunteer staff. It's also a non-threatening entry point for individuals and families to learn about the other services the family center provides. The store has about 40 to 50 customers on a typical day and brings in about $26,000 a year to support family center programs.
Doris Knott, a part-time worker at the Hidden Jewels thrift store in Pine River, marked donated clothing earlier this month at the thrift store. Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls
Bouchonville said it's an honor to receive the award from the Initiative Foundation."The award is not only about the staff and the board, it's about the community," Bouchonville said. "I think it speaks to Pine River and Backus and how everyone is working together to make it a nice place to live. It's exciting."The thrift shop is in dire need of volunteers to help sort incoming donations and help with the store, Bouchonville said. The store has a nearby storage room that is filled with items that need to be sorted and priced. The family center also is looking for donations for its Christmas For Kids toy drive, which provides Christmas gifts for families in need in the community.
The Hidden Jewels thrift store is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesdays.
JODIE TWEED may be reached at jodie.tweed@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5858.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Meet Little Bear...
The newest member of our family...
This is Little Bear. He's a 6 month old AKC registered Pomeranian puppy my daughter brought home recently, and with my permission, this time. (out of guilt, actually, but I'll explain that later).....
So far, I think he's a keeper!! Ü He's all black except for some white on the front of his chest.
This little guy is sooo cuddly and sweet that I couldn't help but fall in love with him. Such a gentle, loving little dog!
As most of you know, I HAVE to have my afternoon nap....and as it turns out, so does Little Bear! He cuddles up right next to me on my pillow and falls asleep with me every afternoon. Such a sweetheart! Did I say he's my "daughter's" dog??? hehehe
He's already housebroken, which is great because I'm terrible at teaching that! The only negative thing about this little fella right now is that he's deathly afraid of our black lab, Rossco. He yips and whines when Rossco comes around, or if Bear walks into a room and sees Rossco sitting there...he'll yip, run and hide! Rossco just continues to wag his tail and sniff the little dog, bumping him with his nose to try to get him to play. Rossco just doesn't understand why Little Bear is so intimidated! *lol* I hope he gets use to Rossco pretty soon tho, because Rossco, altho he's a big, 90 pound or so dog, is also an 'inside' dog. He sleeps in the house with us, goes outside when he feels like it, then he's back inside the house again. He's a big baby. I've tried holding Little Bear while petting both dogs, and at least he doesn't whine and shake anymore during that, but as soon as I let go of him, he runs and hides until Rossco goes outside again. Any pointers on getting them to be friends?? I could sure use some!! Ü I don't think he was ever around big dogs before.
About my guilt.....
What happened was, my daughter met someone in town who was trying to get rid of their three puppies, about 6 or 7 weeks old, saying they were going to have to kill them if they didn't find a home for them, so of course, she had to save them all! Sheesh. (I swear it must be on the Internet somewhere that all folks have to do is tell her they're going to kill their pet and she'll take it off their hands!!) *lol*
It seems like every other week she's bringing home some kind of abandoned pet, and while she's at school, then goes to work, then goes to 'hang out' with her friends in her spare time, guess who's taking care of whatever the latest pet is??....and my nerves are shot with that job! I'm no good at teaching them to do their 'duty' outside, (or anything else, for that matter!), so of course, I'm feeding them, holding & comforting them, playing with them, and cleaning up piles and puddles every time I turn around. My old nerves just can't handle that responsibility anymore!
Well, she found homes for two of them, but she didn't try with the third...she decided to keep him! EEeeeekkk!! (I'm pulling my hair out by this time)
Cutest and friendliest little thing I've ever seen. Black and white, was going to be a small dog when full grown, such a neat personality. Bright-eyed. Loves to cuddle....the whole nine yards. I can see how she couldn't resist! BUT....
I was the one taking care of him!! After a couple weeks of that, I overheard a nurse at work talking to someone on the phone about how she was looking for a puppy for her children, and describing this dog to a "T"!! (colors, markings, etc) So, I told her about the puppy, then showed him to her, and she immediately fell in love with him! She went home, told her kids about the puppy, and the next day took him home. I was really happy. I know this family personally, and this really was the perfect dog for them. So I was tickled, explained to my daughter how we 'had' to do this and that it was best for the puppy, and she seemed to understand...
UNTIL....the puppy actually went home to this family. THEN.... my daughter whined around, wanting the puppy back, laying a huge guilt trip on me about how much she really loved this puppy, and driving me absolutely crazy. Well, what was I going to do??? I couldn't take the puppy back from those kids! They were already in love with him!!! So...I agreed to help her find another dog, one that was already housebroken, and that we BOTH agreed to. And within a couple days, we found Bear. Another nurse at work led me to a friend of hers who's a breeder of these kinds of dogs, and WALLA!
So, we agreed to try it out and see how it goes. So far so good, and I am now guilt-free. My daughter has a little dog to love and cuddle and sleep with, and my friend's kids do too!! Wooo-Hoooo!! And best of all....I'm not cleaning anything up!!! Just a little love and attention, but I can handle that! Ü
Now let's just hope this is the end of this on-going saga, and that baby season is over for all pets right now!!
Why don't people get their pets spayed or neutered if they don't want babies from them???!!!!!
So, we agreed to try it out and see how it goes. So far so good, and I am now guilt-free. My daughter has a little dog to love and cuddle and sleep with, and my friend's kids do too!! Wooo-Hoooo!! And best of all....I'm not cleaning anything up!!! Just a little love and attention, but I can handle that! Ü
Now let's just hope this is the end of this on-going saga, and that baby season is over for all pets right now!!
Why don't people get their pets spayed or neutered if they don't want babies from them???!!!!!
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