Three for Thursday: How to Reduce Waste in Your Home

For today's Three for Thursday post, I thought I would share with you some tips for reducing waste in your home.  If you are already recycling... yay you!  But we can still improve.  While recycling is awesome, it still uses energy, and costs money. So here are my three tips for further reducing waste in order to help our planet.

1. Bag it up: While there are some recycling plans available for plastic shopping bags, most people don't go through the effort to recycle their plastic bags properly. Contrary to popular belief, simply throwing your plastic bags in your recycling bin is not the way to recycle them. They must be taken back to a store and placed in a labeled recycling receptacle there. Even better than recycling your bags? Don't get them in the first place! Purchase a few reusable shopping bags and take them with you when you go shopping. Reusable shopping bags are sold in tons of stores, from grocery stores to craft stores, and in a number of colors and patterns. You can also purchase insulated ones for all of your cold items. One reason why I love my reusable bags is that they hold a lot more than the same amount of grocery bags. Plus, they are sturdier, so you don't have to worry about double bagging (which uses even more bags). I keep all of my bags in my car so that when I go to the store, I remember to take them with me.

2. Pack it up: Rather than spending extra money (and collecting waste) use reusable plastic containers (like Tupperware) to package your food rather than using plastic baggies. To save even more money, buy larger packages of food and put them in individual containers. Buying individual prepackaged foods is more expensive and the wrappers of individual items add more waste. I like to cut up fruits and veggies to take in small containers to work. You can find a number of reusable products for containing your snacks (like reusable sandwich bags) that are handmade on sites like Etsy. I have a Rubbermaid Premier set which I love because the containers nest together and the lids snap together so nothing gets lost. The containers are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. Not to mention the decorative design looks pretty in my fridge or in my cabinets.

I use the Rubbermaid Premier set.

 

3. Drink it up: Invest in a good reusable water bottle. Let's face it; most plastic water bottles don't make it into the recycling bin. Not to mention, there are many misconceptions about plastic water bottles. First of all, why are you spending money on something that you can get for free?! I carry my water bottle wherever I go. Any time I run out of water at work, I head to the water fountain and fill it up. Second, all of those special waters you are paying more for because they have "added vitamins and minerals..." if you are eating healthy, you don't need those anyways. Plus, think about where all those bottles had to go between the factory and your fridge. When they sit in the sun, the bottles heat up and leach nasty chemicals into your water. You may be thinking, "But I live in the city! My water tastes gross!" No problem. Invest in a Brita (or similar type) pitcher that has a filter. Fill it up and cool it in your fridge. When you are at home, fill your water bottle up with that. Think about how much money you will save! Even better, think of how much waste you are keeping out of our landfills! I recommend Tervis Tumbler water bottles. They are made in the USA and have a lifetime guarantee. They are insulated too, so your water will stay cold longer. I have an adorable sea turtle one that I was given for my birthday. I have used it every day since! I take mine everywhere so I can always have water. It has measurements on the back so you can keep track of how much water you are drinking. I find that it helps me drink more water every day.

My Tervis Tumbler water bottle

Those are my tips for this week!  How do you reduce waste in your home?  If you try any of these, let me know how they work out for you!

Three for Thursday: Favorite Skin Care Go-To's

I remember being in high school and every time exam time would roll around, so would a new round of break-outs. It was embarrassing and even painful at times. Even though I could find products that would help temporarily, it seemed like the stress break-outs would always manage to sneak back into my life and force me to use a ridiculous amount of concealer, which only created a bigger problem. Even though my acne wasn't super obvious to the world, it was something that was super obvious to me and made me feel self-conscious. It wasn't until a couple of years ago that I found three affordable products that were the perfect combo for my skin. Now my break-outs are few and far between and I actually get compliments on my skin! So I thought I'd share my miracle regimen that can be found at any drug store, Walmart, or (my personal favorite) Target, with you... Here they are!

All three of these products are put out by Olay. The first is their foaming face wash for sensitive skin. I opted for the sensitive skin formula because other face washes had been to stringent on my skin and would sometimes cause it to peel. With this product, I wipe off my makeup with a warm, wet washcloth. Then put a nickle-size amount of the foaming face wash in the palm of my hand, add a bit of warm water, and rub my hands together until I've created a foam. I massage the foam all over my face for about 30 seconds, wipe it off with a warm, wet washcloth, and pat my face dry with a towel.

Next, I apply Olay's oil-minimizing toner to my entire face and under my jaw-line using a cottonball. This removes any leftover makeup or dirt. An added benefit is that it prevents my skin from getting too oily and shiny during the day.

Finally, I apply a dab of Olay's original active hydrating cream using my fingertips. It smells like baby powder, it makes my skin feel super soft, and it gives my skin the moisture it needs to look and feel healthy. It's the perfect finishing touch!

I typically go through this regimen just once at night. I don't usually wash my face all over again in the mornings because this formula is so effective for me personally that I don't have to. What are your skin care go-to's? Have you tried any of these products or do you plan to? Let me know what you think in our comments section below!

Three for Thursday: Back to School Tips

It's that time of year again!  Kids are heading back to school, college kids are moving into dorms, and the smell of fresh school supplies is everywhere.  After enjoying summer break, it is often hard to get back into the swing of things.

This week, I had the privilege of helping my younger sister, Darby, move into her first dorm room at USF.  I am so excited for her as she starts her first year of living on campus as a full-time college student.  That is why this week, I am dedicating this Three for Thursday segment to my little sis (you are awesome already, D, but I hope that you will find these tips useful in starting classes next week).  While this post is dedicated to my sister, I feel that this post will apply to anyone going back to school (high school or college) or even just anyone who needs some tips for reorganizing their time.

Tip #1: Make a schedule



My nifty planner.  A must have for staying organized.

Schedule time for everything you need to do: studying, exercising, relaxing, etc. I have found that when I have a set schedule, it is easier to stick with it.  Yes, you need to study hard and go to all of your classes, but that doesn't mean you can't have some fun every now and then.  Schedule it in so that you won't skip your "me time" and it won't run over time you need to be spend working.

Tip 2:  Make good habits



A few awesome cookbooks I borrowed
from my local library.

Eat healthy.  Exercise.  Drink enough water.  Get enough sleep.  All of these things are essential to getting through school alive.  It's a proven fact: junk food makes you feel crappy.  Eat foods that aren't processed.  Stock up on fruits and veggies as snacks.  Things like apples and bananas are easy to stick in your backpack to eat later.  Pack healthy lunches rather than buying them at school.  Exercise is important too.  When you exercise, your body is filled with these amazing things called Endorphins (which are basically feel good hormones that your brain releases).  Not to mention, exercise helps you keep in shape.  Remember Freshman, there is a reason why the term "Freshman 15" was created.   As tempting as it is, drink water, NOT soda or sugary, caffeine filled energy drinks. Water is the most important beverage for your body.  After all, about 60% of your body is made out of water.  You need to replenish the water that leaves your body, not to mention it helps flush out toxins.  Last, you need to get plenty of sleep.  Sleep helps increase your performance, memory, and even can help improve your grades!  Click here for more info on the benefits of sleep.

Tip 3: Be yourself

One of my new favorite quotes...
Written in my handwriting for day 2 of our
August Photo Challenge.

When starting a new school year or semester (especially when starting a new school), it is difficult for many people to make new friends.  You were created to be wonderful, fantastic, amazing, you.  Don't waste your time trying to be someone else.  If people can't like you for who you are, they aren't worth your time.  If you don't like doing something (or don't feel comfortable doing something), don't do it.  Period.  Don't act like an idiot to get people to like you because it doesn't matter.  Those people aren't your real friends.  Get to know people who like you for you.  You deserve to have real friends.

I would go on, but it is Three for Thursday after all.  As you may be able to tell, I am kind of sad I am not going to school this semester.  You read that right kids... after you graduate, you will miss being in school.  Trust me.   But if you are like me and aren't heading back to school, I feel that you can use this tips to help make the most out of the rest of this year.

Okay, readers.  Now I want to know... what your tips are for going back to school?  How helpful do you find my tips?  If you try any of my tips, I would love to hear how they work for you! :)


For those of you heading back to school, good luck!  I hope that this year is an awesome year for you and that you learn a lot of cool new things!

For all of you teachers out there (like my bestie, Amy), good luck to you too!  You need it!  I hope that this year brings you lots of well behaved kiddos! ;)

Three for Thursday: In my Makeup Drawer

Okay, readers. It's back-to-school time for this girl, so I have been spending the last week setting up my classroom. Moving boxes in and out of a second floor classroom in the heat, rain, and suffocating humidity of a typical Florida summer. And the kicker? I've been rearranging furniture, decorating, and organizing in a classroom that hasn't had AC for most of the time. Let's just say that it hasn't been pretty. Many of my fellow teachers have been complaining of sweating their makeup off. While the heat and humidity have made me feel uncomfortable, I haven't had any trouble with my makeup. In fact, I wear the same makeup whether I'm going out to eat, to work, or even to Disney or an outdoor concert... Not to mention the fact that I have oily skin AND I'm working with a teacher's budget! Since my makeup selections have proven that they can withstand some rough conditions without melting off, I thought I'd share three of my favorites. Here we go!

1. Covergirl 3 in 1 Liquid Foundation in creamy natural
Choosing a liquid foundation can be tricky. It can sometimes be difficult to match it to your skin tone and blend in without feeling caked on or chalky. Plus, it can be messy to pour out onto your fingers or a sponge and apply. However, this foundation was super easy to blend and it comes in a user-friendly pump. It only takes one pump (which is about the size of a dime) to cover my face and totally even out my skin tone. I also love the 3 in 1 aspect! This one product is a primer, concealer, and foundation! And as a bonus, it also contains an SPF 20 sunscreen... In Florida, that is a must! This makeup feels very light and natural on my skin and I even wear it with a little lip balm when I go to the beach.

2. Covergirl LashBlast Fusion
I've been using this mascara for a couple of years now and refuse to switch unless they discontinue the product... In which case, I will right a very strongly worded letter. Haha! But seriously, this mascara is easy to apply, it makes my lashes look thicker, longer, and more defined. It really makes my eyes pop while still looking natural. I love that! Want to know what I love even more? It doesn't flake off or even run when I sweat or cry. Mascara can't get much better than that!

3. Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain

Up until a couple of months ago I was a die-hard Covergirl fan. As in, I never bought another brand. But my curiosity about Revlon's Balm Stain finally got the better of me and I had to try it... And I'm so glad I did! It doesn't get goopy or wipe off easily like a gloss does, and it also doesn't dry out your lips. I apply it once in the morning, blot with a tissue to remove the excess and make it look more natural, and I'm good for the rest of the day even after eating, drinking, brushing my teeth, etc. The color remains and so does the moisture to keep your lips smooth and kissably soft. My favorite shade to wear everyday is Honey, which is a natural rose color. But when I like to have more of a pop of color or retro look, I wear Romantic, which is a reddish-coral shade. Both colors are pictured below.

So those are a few of my favorite beauty products in honor of Three for Thursday... Do you use any of these products or plan to try them out? Do you have any other favorites? I'd love to hear all about them!

Three for Thursday: Websites that "Do Good"

I think that everyone can agree that these days, we could all use a little more good in the world.  That's why for today's Three for Thursday post I wanted to share with you my three favorite websites that are doing good for our planet.

1. The World Needs More Love Letters

The World Needs More Love Letters is one of our favorite websites and you will definitely hear more about it later (as Amy and I are both very involved in the movement).  MLL is movement dedicated to spreading love through pens and paper.  MLL encourages people to write love letters to strangers to leave in random places around the community.  They also organize love letter drives and create love letter "bundles" to send to people all over the world who need love and encouragement.

MLL mission statement: "The World Needs More Love Letters is an organization lifting, empowering, and mobilizing individuals through tangible acts of love."

2. Kind Campaign

The Kind Campaign is a movement designed to get girls to stand up against "girl-on-girl 'crime.'"  They teach girls that

The Kind Campaign mission statement: "Kind Campaign is an internationally recognized movement, documentary and school program based upon the powerful belief in KINDness that brings awareness and healing to the negative and lasting effects of girl-against-girl 'crime.'”

Here is a preview of the Kind Campaign documentary which will show you what they really stand for:

3. Smart Girls at the Party

Smart Girls at the Party was founded by the fabulous Amy Poehler and a few of her friends.  SGATP is all about changing the world by being yourself.  The girls who run the site post adorable videos showing that girls are awesome just the way they are, as well as encouraging girls to do good in their community.

Their motto is: "CHANGE THE WORLD BY BEING YOURSELF!"

Here is an adorable video from Smart Girls at the Party's YouTube channel.  I couldn't resist sharing it with all of you!

While the Kind Campaign and SGATP are geared towards younger girls, I feel that the messages are powerful enough that even as adults we can gain insight from them to share with the next generation of women.  I hope that you have enjoy this week's Three for Thursday and that you will find these websites fun and interesting.  I'd love to hear what your favorite websites are that do good for our society!

Three for Thursday: Positive, Patient, Persistent

Last year, I took a leap of faith and accepted a temporary teaching position at a school that I knew very little about. I was both excited and anxious about all of the possibilities that this new opportunity would hold. Even more than that, I was terrified that another opportunity wouldn't come along. It was getting later in the summer and other schools I had been interested in didn't have any available positions. So all of my fear, anxiety, and excitement as a new graduate propelled me on a new adventure into the unknown. Unfortunately, that adventure wasn't as wonderful an experience as I had hoped. I’m not saying that it was a mistake… quite the opposite, actually. I became much stronger as a teacher and as a person. Plus, I was able to learn from my first experience job hunting and discovered exactly what I needed to do to get to where I wanted to be. I had to be positive, patient, and persistent.

I had to walk away from my last experience proud of what I had accomplished, despite many obstacles that were thrown my way and look forward positively. I made up my mind that I wouldn't fixate on finding a new job. Instead, I sent out resumes early in the summer to schools I had researched and felt would be a good fit for me, and then I left it up to God. I truly enjoyed my summer and was optimistic that everything would work out the way that it was meant to. I had to put my anxiety aside and remind myself constantly that I had done all that I could and now it was time to be patient. Patience isn't always my strong suit, but I reminded myself each day that I was one day closer to my goal. Finally, I got a window of opportunity and that’s when my persistence kicked into high gear. I called and emailed relentlessly until I was offered an interview. So I put on my favorite purple dress and my nude heals, curled my hair, and calmed my nerves. Once again I had to be positive, optimistic that it would go well… patient, carefully listen to questions and answer them thoughtfully without rushing… and persistent, make it clear that I wanted the job and that I was the best person for the job. Those three P’s didn't let me down all summer, and they sure didn't let me down during the moment of truth. I got the job! And at my dream school, no less.

I’m not saying that being positive, patient, and persistent was easy or totally within my comfort zone. What I’m saying is that  it was SO WORTH IT. Beyond this, I think that the 3 P’s could be used when going after any goal in life. So in honor of our Three for Thursday tradition, here are three quotes to encourage you when you are fighting your own insecurities in pursuit of your dreams.

Now I’m curious… What goals and dreams are you working toward? What quotes do you find encouraging? I’d love to hear all about them in the comment section below!

Three for Thursday: Power Songs

 

 

Happy Thursday!  Here at Two Cents Worth we have something special for Thursdays.  We call it Three for Thursday, where we post three things that we are loving this week.

This week, I want to share three of my favorite "power songs."  These are songs that I like to listen to when I am feeling down.  Their messages are powerful and say that you are special and strong.

1. "Firework" by Katy Perry

I know, this song has been out for a while, but I still think it is a great song.  I love this song's message that you are beautiful and special.  Times are often tough.  But so are you and you will get through them.

2. "Gold" by Britt Nicole

I love this song's powerful message that you (yes, you!) are worth more than gold.  It is a wonderful reminder that even when we feel worthless, we aren't.  You are beautiful, wonderful, and awesome, so hold your head up!  You rock!

3. "Fire Starter" by Demi Lovato

This is one of my newer favorites.  I absolutely love this song.  It is one of those songs that you sing and it makes you feel stronger and more powerful.  It is one of those songs that even when you aren't tough or super cool, you feel that way.

I could add a few more songs, but this is Three for Thursday, so I'll stop here.

So tell me... what are your power songs?  Is there a specific song that makes you feel more powerful?  If so, leave it in the comments below!