Heather Levin
Did you know that the first artifical Christmas trees were actually made in the early 1930′s by a company called Addis Brush? They were in the business of making toilet scrubbers and brushes. So, the first fake trees were really nothing more than gigantic, green toilet bowl scrubbers. Imagine that! It’s pretty funny to think about now.
Since their invention, artificial trees have continued to gain widespread popularity. In 2007 alone, almost 18 million were sold here in the U.S. That should hardly be surprising especially in tough economic times. It’s commonly believed that buying an artificial Christmas tree saves money. You invest the money once, and use the tree year after year. Plus, you help the environment by saving a tree from being cut down.
When I buy vinegar, I 
How many of you have set a goal, only to find yourself crashing and burning a few months, or weeks, into the effort?
Have you ever added up how much you spend every year getting your car’s oil changed? Or, how much you’ve spent on fresh vegetables, gourmet jam, or having your pants hemmed?
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the surrounding months are all about shopping for 
The U.S. Department of Energy reports that up to 20% of our utility bill pays for what is called “phantom load.” Phantom load (also called vampire power) is energy that’s sucked away when your devices (laptops, DVD players, microwaves) are off, but left plugged in. 
Have you ever read the directions on the back of your laundry detergent? You know, where it says “Use 2/3 cup for heavy loads, 1/2 cup for lighter loads,” and so on.
Last week I had to rent a car for a long trip. And if I hadn’t done my research beforehand, the car rental clerk would have scammed and sweet-talked me into spending a lot more than I needed to.
I have a recipe for Mile-High Banana Pudding that I’ve been wanting to try for months. And this recipe is like the Gold Medal Winner of Banana Puddings. But it calls for 2 vanilla beans…
Here’s the scenario: you’ve got your Aunt Edna, Uncle Frank, and your three cousins coming for the holidays. Plus, your parents have been subtly hinting they’d like to come stay as well.
