I thoroughly enjoy discovering unique websites and, when they're filled with freebies, the discoveries become even more exciting. Featured this week by old friend Mary Hunt are some sure-to-please attractions for most everyone so boot up and click on!
1. For those folks who, like me, are clean (or maybe not so much) but cluttered, Mary offers up abowlfulloflemons.net. Just like the old "If life gives you lemons, make lemonade" adage, this organization site takes us from A to Z, from housekeeping methods to family emergencies and everything in between.
Ellen Phillips2. Check out randomacts ofkindness.org. (Coordinating with Valentine's Day, "Random Acts of Kindness Week" runs from February 14-20.) About the only nightly news item I enjoy viewing is the spot on someone extending a kind hand to another - usually one less fortunate or in need. To be sure, in this day and time of violence and random acts of bizarre behaviors, we need more reminders of the best in each of us. The ideas featured on this website do just that; a random act of kindness or an otherwise ordinary thoughtful gesture could be, for example, simply letting a person in the grocery store checkout get in front of us to, perhaps, finally getting around to write that note of appreciation to a former teacher. In fact, according to research, simple and random acts of kindness work miracles to improve health and optimism. Not only do they decrease anxiety, depression and blood pressure in both the giver and recipient, but they also send out great vibes to those who witness the act. Win-win all the way around!
3. Neighborhoodscout.com is a font of information about any area in the U.S. Whether you're thinking of a move to another city or just interested in learning more about your own suburban neighborhood, this website has it all. Diversity, income, house size, crime rates, schools - you name it, it's available and most is free for the asking.
4. Readers know I love to turn up and share senior citizen discounts (maybe because I'm in this category?). The seniorlist.com not only offers all the latest discounts for folks over 50 but, additionally, includes such great advice as the best in elder care, caregiving tips, financial help, legal advice, and so forth. Teeming with information and benefits, The Senior List is a great resource for seniors and their families.
5. One of the most original and self-satisfying projects I've ever seen (Thanks, Mary, for opening my eyes) is the buynothingproject.org. Based upon the premise that everyone has something to give, this site urges connectivity within communities (of any type). The proffered gifts aren't just monetary but, rather, gifts of ourselves and talents, even if the "talent" is seemingly farfetched. One case in point might be a neighborhood festival in which folks offer what they can to enrich or enhance their surroundings. Maybe a neighbor has taken in a stray dog and needs some necessities for the animal. Hey, I've got soft old towels to line Doggie's bed and a baby gate to keep him inside the laundry room while my neighbor's at work. A resident artist might teach face-painting to a local Girl Scout troop for which members may then use this new ability to make other kids' groups happy. One of the more heartwarming stories on the site concerns a woman diagnosed with cancer who started a small vegetable garden right before her diagnosis occurred. Chemo treatments wiped out her energy, so a few down-the-street neighbors (not necessarily besties) took over. They planted, weeded, fertilized and, otherwise, maintained the garden, and even as the woman regained strength enough to putter around and reap the benefits, these new friends continued to assist. Community, she says, is what it's all about. A lesson well learned.