CaseyB's Profile

Guys, I can't tell you how much Donors Choose has helped my classroom. I've received bookshelves, hundreds of books, learning centers, pocket charts, whiteboards, art supplies, bean bag chairs, a huge rug, activities to improve fluency and comprehension, and tons of other materials to help me organize my class. I could NEVER have bought these on my own, nor would my school be able to buy them for me. Please help my fellow teachers. This organization makes such a difference for my kids.

I hope that parents use some common sense, too. We had visitors recently who expected my boyfriend and me to have a sippy cup. We don't have any kids!!!!! Why wouldn't they bring their own sippy cup (or, by the way, any toys for the baby, a blanket, or snacks)?? I understand being a harried parent and the importance of being a good hostess, but you can't expect people without kids (and on a limited budget) to have this stuff.

NancyinLA:

Go buy some Pooch Pads right now!!! Most pet stores have them (probably hanging right next to the disposable pads that you're using now). They are amazing. They don't leak, they keep odors down, and they don't stain. They are a little expensive but pay for themselves in about two months. My dog had no trouble transitioning from the disposable pads to them.

Also, for people with dog messes: Urine is sterile, and hot water takes care of the rest. I know that hot water isn't great, but I truly believe it's better than paper towels. I haven't used paper towels for years. I thought I was going to die at first, but now I don't even notice. Get some car clothes from Target and a ShamWow (!) or two, and you're set.

Has anyone seen the episode of Friends when Rachel and Phoebe live together and Rachel keeps buying stuff from PB and saying she got it from a lea market? It cracks me up every time...

My boyfriend built a beautiful little island/butcher block/prep station for me, because we have next to no counter space. I bought him a set of all-metal Global knives. Usually, I'd really hate the magnetic strip (especially if the knives don't match--I know I'm crazy), but it looks really nice next to the island.

I am in love with my recent cheap art projects.

I bought a bunch of paper dolls from Wool and Water, one of my favorite Etsy sellers:

http://tinyurl.com/92gt64

I mounted them on gunmetal gray scrapbook paper that had a bit of a sheen to them. Then I placed each one in a square, silver Ribba frame from Ikea.

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20101041

They look awesome. This was a relatively cheap project that really looks quite fancy. I will say that cutting out the dolls was a headache, but worth it.

Stop using paper towels. We haven't bought a roll in more than a year, and I don't miss them even a bit.

Do your laundry at off-peak hours, and only use hot water when you really, really need to.

Keep a large bowl near the kitchen sink. Put it under the faucet while you're waiting for the water to heat up. Water something (or use this time to fill up the Brita).

Use vinegar to clean just about everything.

Stop using dryer sheets or detergent with color boosters.

Re-use humus containers.

Make your own yogurt.

This is a truly wonderful organization. I work at a school that just can't provide any extras (or even some basics) for its students. Donors Choose has helped me quite a bit. Please donate!!!!

I have lace curtains in my bedroom, and I love them. They let in a beautiful filtered light. They also, of course, provide little privacy. I got a pair of tan "temporary" blinds, which fold up and are hidden completely during the day, and provide perfect privacy during the night. I think they're wonderful. I've had them for nearly four years, and they've held up really well.

Very good use of three bucks.

Owls!!!