The Farmers Almanac - 100 Ways to Avoid Dying

The Farmer’s almanac has compiled a list of 100 ways to avoid dying.  Who knew!  While conventional  methods  (otherwise known as a healthy diet and exercise ) as a way of extending life, are universally endorsed…… research into centuries of American folk wisdom has turned up 100 EASY ways of avoiding death by observing a few simple rules in everyday situations. These beliefs come from all over this country and were collected by students of folklore and anthropology.  So enjoy, live long, and prosper in 2012. 

1. Don't take ashes out of the fireplace or wood stove between Christmas and New Year's Day.
2. Never place a broom on a bed.
3. Close umbrellas before bringing them into a house.
4. Avoid sweeping after sundown.
5. You mustn't wash clothes on New Year Day.
6. Don't shake out a tablecloth after dark.
7. Never wash a flag.
8. Don't turn a chair on one leg.
9. Keep cats off piano keys.
10. Don't hang a dishcloth on a doorknob.
11. Sweeping under a sick person's bed will kill him or her.
12. Don't ever, ever rock an empty rocking chair.

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Being Green is a Personal Responsibility

There is a saying, ….if you know better, ...you do better.  As 2012 begins, now is a good time to take a look at your family’s carbon footprint.  There are many small and painless adjustments that can be made, that will have an impact on the world in which we live, as well as save some hard earned cash.  The EPA has created a calculator that gives an estimate of total emissions created, complete with the ability to explore actions you can take to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, energy use, and waste disposal costs.  Finally there is the ability to then see the cost savings as a result of changes.  

Household emissions calculator

Greenspot

Get Green Columbus
 

Winter Pruning Guide for Trees and Shrubs

Late winter is a good time for pruning in many regions. Pruning deciduous plants in the winter promotes fast regrowth in the spring, as most plants are dormant during the winter. It's also easier to see the shape of deciduous plants in the winter, since their foliage is gone.  For some tips and a list of common shrubs and trees to prune in late winter or early spring.

Pruning Guide
Pruning Pointers