Baby, it's cold outside!

Given the drop in temperature and the snowfall in my lovely corner of the world, I have decided to post on keeping those tootsies toasty. First, take stock. Look at yourself, how are you dressed right at this moment? Could you be wearing the same thing in April? May? September? You know, when it is warmer out? If so, you probably have your heat tuned higher then necessary. One of the joys of winter is bundling up in those cozy sweaters. So dress the part. You can save some energy (and some pennies) by turning down the thermostat. For example, at this moment, I have long johns, jeans, knee high socks, house slippers, long sleeved t-shirt, and perhaps the plushest, coziest house coat on the planet. (I am not wearing a sweater because the housecoat is soooo cozy, sweater tomorrow!)
Other things to do, check the windows - are there drafts? The coop is not the most sound of places, but as a renter, I am limited. So I invested in the Duck brand Window kits. The amount plastic is bothersome to me, but it is less impacting then the heat loss generated.
Also, something as simple as indulging in that cup of hot cocoa or tea. The internal warmth created helps bit the need for bumping up the thermo.
My other big step is to invest in a small space heater. I purchased a forced fan variety because they are safer for the furry friends. It pleasantly heats the little nook I prefer to sit in to watch a movie or read a book. I am keeping my heat between the 63-65 range and have been very cozy. Stay warm! Give something above a try or turn the heat down a degree or two. Remember, baby steps are as important as leaps, both keep you moving forward.

Draft Dodger

The spring thaw is definitely happening and warmth is showing up every now and again, so I need to post this one quickly before it is completely irrelevant for many months. (Okay, so it is already past that point, but it is so darn cute.) I picked up this adorable draft dodger at my favorite fair trade store, but was in the Serrv international catalog (http://www.serrv.org/). Even if they are not carrying it this season, this is a great fair trade website. Peruse at you own risk. The jewelry is addictive. (the Divine white chocolate bars are amazing.) Be forewarned, it might be best to freeze your credit card in a block of ice first. Anyways, back to the draft dodger, I live in a very drafty apartment. There is little I can do because, well, I rent, so no structural changes. The draft dodger is a cute and handy way to prevent heat loss. Also, many websites give instructions how to make one yourself, but I have yet to become that crafty. If you are interested though, as always Google is a great way to find some. Well, this post became a bit more sporadic than I meant, oh well, spring tends to addle my mind a bit.