Don't forget to SAVE ENERGY even in September...

I know it seems like fall is fast approaching, but it is imperative to remember to keep up the good work to reduce your energy bills.

Unplug all unused appliances like toasters, coffee makers, blenders, etc.

ALWAYS UNPLUG YOUR CELL PHONE CHARGER WHEN NOT IN USE!!!

Try to turn off any excess indoor and outdoor lights and stay in one or two rooms of your home with only a few electronics max in use simultaneously.

Change the temperature to a lower heat on your water heater if it is too high, most people can stand to lose 10 to 20 degrees without noticing much difference.

WASH CLOTHES AND ANYTHING NOT SUPER SOILED IN COLD WATER ONLY...use hot for only really gross loads like rags from cleaning or towels and whites if needed; keep in mind that hot water breaks down fabric fibers much more quickly so your fave jeans won't last if you don't use cold water regularly.

Try a night of candle light for a fun date night or a celebration of the olden days when we didn't have the luxury of electric lights, and truly appreciate the glow of a soy or other natural, lead free wick candle set. Find fun containers , especially with cutouts that cast lovely patterns, and place at least one candle in each room so that your night is lit until bedtime.

Call for energy rebates on any new appliances that may apply for credits and make sure to take advantage of any store mail in rebates...every penny counts in this economy!

And LAST BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, MAKE SURE TO CARE FOR FURRY FRIENDS WITH PROPER DIET, EXERCISE, FLEA/TICK/HEARTWORM CONTROL, SUPPLEMENTS, AND HEALTHY TREATS FOR MAKING IT THROUGH ANOTHER WONDERFUL SUMMER! Take the time on a sunny day for an outdoor doggie wash with some all natural shampoo and a good brushing to get rid of that residual summer shedding...it is a great time to bond and enjoy the summer coming to a close.

XOXO
Chi