Author: Roberta Cole

12 Weirdest Home Items You Won’t Believe Are on Amazon

Amazon can be a bit of a yawn-fest sometimes. Sure, you can get the essentials: toothpaste, that bag of gummy bears you desperately need at 3 a.m., and maybe even a new shower curtain (if yours is truly horrifying). But what about when you’re craving a little…weirdness? A dash of unexpected delight? Amazon’s got a secret stash of bizarre (but strangely brilliant) items that will tickle your funny bone, spark conversation, and maybe even make you wonder what on earth someone was thinking. We’re talking 200 mini plastic babies (because why not?), a yodeling pickle (yes, you read that right), and even cat-butt-shaped…well, let’s just say it’s not what you think it is.

Pet Butler Prank Box

If you want to have a little fun with your pet-obsessed friend or family member, this empty box promises the ultimate canine companion – a personal pet butler! It’s the perfect gag gift for anyone who takes their pet pampering a little too seriously.

Zen Kitty Litter Box

Okay, this one isn’t an actual litter box for your cat (phew!). This miniature zen garden features a “litter box” tray filled with sand, miniature felines, and decorative rocks for your zen pleasure.

Tiny Hand Squirrels

Take finger puppets to the next level with these adorable tiny hand squirrels. Perch them on your fingers and recreate hilarious squirrel scenes, or simply enjoy the company of your miniature furry friends.

Rubber Chicken Purse

Make a bold statement (or maybe just confuse people) with a rubber chicken purse. This quirky conversation starter is guaranteed to turn heads and elicit questions (and perhaps a few clucks).

200 Mini Plastic Babies

Who needs one tiny plastic baby when you can have a whole army of 200? Unleash these miniature menaces on unsuspecting friends and family for endless prank possibilities.

Live Insects

Feeling adventurous? Ditch the goldfish and opt for live insects like worms or ladybugs delivered straight to your door. Just be sure you’re prepared to care for your unusual new houseguests!

Yodeling Pickle

Here’s a gift that’s guaranteed to elicit groans (and maybe a few giggles). This isn’t your average pickle. Press the button and unleash a symphony of electronic yodeling that will leave a lasting impression.

Corgi Butt Products

The internet’s obsession with corgi butts knows no bounds! Show off your love for these fluffy pups with comfy corgi butt slippers, a quirky corgi butt bottle opener, or even a conversation-starting corgi butt purse.

Shakespearean Insult Bandages

Band-Aids got you feeling bored? These bandages dispense dramatic insults from the Bard himself, William Shakespeare. From “Out, damned spot!” to “Do thou amend thy face, and I’ll amend my life,” each bandage is a hilarious way to add some literary flair to your owies.

Pooping Pooches Calendar

Who needs inspirational quotes when you can have a year’s worth of adorable pups mid-elimination? This calendar features 12 different dog breeds doing their business in various scenic locations. It’s a guaranteed conversation starter!

Screaming Goat Set

The internet’s love for screaming goats is alive and well! This figurine and book combo lets you experience the phenomenon firsthand. Annoy your loved ones with high-pitched goat noises on demand, or simply appreciate the absurdity of it all.

Toast Night Light

If you’ve been looking for a whimsical way to light up your nightstand, this adorable toast-shaped night light adds a touch of playful charm to any bedroom. It’s perfect for kids who love breakfast food (or adults who are just big kids at heart).

Cat-Butt Tissue Holder

This fluffy feline rear end isn’t just there to look good (though it certainly does). It’s actually a tissue dispenser, adding a touch of unexpected humor to your bathroom routine.

Burrito Dodgeball

Looking for a game that combines the thrill of dodgeball with the deliciousness of burritos? Look no further! This fast-paced card game has players collecting matching sets while simultaneously dodging (and throwing) plush burritos. Just be sure to play this one outdoors!

Burrito Blanket

Channel your inner burrito lover and wrap yourself up in pure, bready bliss. This giant tortilla blanket is perfect for movie marathons, lazy Sundays, or simply pretending you’re a giant human burrito. It comes in other food-inspired prints, too!

Toilet Timer

Ever wondered how long you spent on the throne? This toilet timer is here to answer that question (and encourage some efficiency in the bathroom). Just set the timer and see how you fare!

Fish Flip-Flops

Take a walk on the wild side (or the wet side) with fish flip-flops. These aquatic-inspired sandals feature realistic fish designs, so it’ll be like you’re swimming with the fish (almost).

Pizza Socks

Who needs a whole pizza when you can have pizza socks? These comfy socks come in a variety of pizza styles, so you can keep your feet warm and stylish at the same time.

Baguette Pillow

Bread lovers rejoice! This baguette pillow is the perfect way to combine your love for carbs with the comfort of a cuddly companion. Snuggle up with this giant baguette and carb-load in style.

You Can Actually Make Money From Home Garden, Here’s How

Turning your suburban garden into a source of extra income is not just a great way to make use of your green thumb; it’s a smart way to add to your household finances. The beauty of gardening is that it offers a diverse range of opportunities to generate income, from selling produce to offering gardening-related services. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a modest plot, there’s potential to turn your passion for gardening into a profitable venture. The following are 15 creative suburban garden ideas for extra income.

1. Microgreens

These tiny yet mighty plants are a culinary favorite, packed with flavor and nutrients. The beauty of microgreens is their rapid growth cycle, allowing for quick turnover and steady income. They’re perfect for urban and suburban gardeners with limited space, and selling to local restaurants or directly to health-conscious consumers can be quite profitable.

2. Specialty Herbs

Beyond the usual basil and parsley, there lies a niche market for exotic and specialty herbs. These can include varieties like lemon balm, lovage, and rare types of mint. Restaurants and culinary enthusiasts are always on the lookout for fresh, unique flavors, making this a potentially lucrative avenue.

3. Edible Flowers

Edible flowers such as nasturtiums, violas, and lavender can add a pop of color and flavor to dishes. Chefs and bakers seek after them for their aesthetic appeal and unique tastes. Packaging them for sale at farmer’s markets or directly to restaurants can yield a good return.

4. Heirloom Vegetables

The appeal of heirloom vegetables lies in their unique colors, shapes, and flavors. They often fetch a higher price than standard varieties. Marketing them to gourmet restaurants or selling seeds and starter plants to fellow gardening enthusiasts can be a fruitful endeavor.

5. Mushroom Cultivation

Mushrooms are versatile and can be grown indoors or in shaded garden areas, offering year-round income potential. Oyster, shiitake, and morel mushrooms are in high demand, especially among restaurants and organic markets.

6. Aquaponics Systems

Aquaponics, a symbiotic system of fish and plants, is a fascinating venture for those interested in sustainable and efficient farming methods. It’s a conversation starter and can attract a diverse clientele, including restaurants interested in sustainability, as well as individuals wanting to buy fresh, organically grown produce.

7. Medicinal Plants

With the surge in interest in natural health remedies, cultivating medicinal plants like echinacea, chamomile, or lavender can be quite profitable. These can be sold to herbalists, at health food stores, or online directly to consumers.

8. Organic Baby Vegetables

Baby vegetables are not only adorable but also packed with flavor. They’re a hit in upscale dining and among health-conscious consumers. Organically grown baby carrots, beets, and greens can command premium prices.

9. Seedling Starter Kits

For those who love to share their gardening passion, creating seedling starter kits is a beautiful way to spread the joy of gardening. These kits can include popular vegetables, herbs, or flowers and are perfect for beginners. Selling these online or at local gardening events can attract a broad audience.

10. Beekeeping for Honey Production

Beekeeping offers the sweet reward of honey, along with beeswax for candles and cosmetics. It also plays a crucial role in garden pollination. Local, raw honey is in high demand for its health benefits and unique tastes, reflecting the local flora.

11. Native Plant Nursery

Specializing in native plants can help support local ecosystems while catering to a growing demand for drought-resistant and wildlife-friendly landscaping options. These plants require less maintenance and water, appealing to eco-conscious gardeners and landscapers.

12. Container Gardening Solutions

Designing custom container gardens for clients with limited space can be a highly personalized service. From patios to balconies, providing a touch of green where ground space is limited is a valued service, including maintenance and seasonal updates.

13. Vertical Farming Installations

Vertical farming is a space-saving solution that can significantly increase yield. Offering installations and maintenance for vertical gardens can attract clients interested in modern, efficient gardening methods, including restaurants wanting to grow their own fresh produce on-site.

14. Backyard Nursery

Starting a backyard nursery focusing on specific types of plants, be it exotic flowers, succulents, or fruit trees, can cater to a niche market. It’s a great way to scale up from hobby gardening to a more structured business, selling young plants at gardening fairs, online, or to local garden centers.

15. Composting Services

Composting turns garden and kitchen waste into gold, literally enriching the soil. Starting a composting service can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and gardeners alike. Selling high-quality compost, offering pickup services for organic waste, and conducting workshops can open multiple streams of income.

15 Genius Ways Smart Tech Can Slash Your Suburban Home’s Energy Bills

Battling high energy bills is a common challenge for many homeowners. Fortunately, smart technology offers some clever solutions to help you trim those costs. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just starting to explore smart home gadgets, there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy increased comfort and decreased expenses by incorporating a few smart devices and systems into your home. This article will explore ways smart tech can slash your suburban home’s energy bills.

1. Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat is like having a personal heating and cooling assistant. These devices learn your schedule and adjust the temperature accordingly, ensuring your home is always comfortable but never wastefully heated or cooled. Popular options like the Nest or Ecobee can detect which rooms are occupied, directing energy where needed. This targeted approach not only enhances comfort but also reduces unnecessary energy use. Over time, the savings on your energy bills can be significant.

2. LED Smart Bulbs

Swapping out old bulbs for LED smart bulbs is a quick and impactful energy-saving move. These bulbs use a fraction of the electricity and last much longer than traditional bulbs. With the added convenience of controlling them via your smartphone, you can ensure lights are on only when needed. The investment in LED smart bulbs pays off through significantly reduced energy costs.

3. Smart Power Strips

Electronics can draw power even when turned off, a phenomenon known as “vampire power.” Smart power strips help combat this by cutting power to devices not in use. They work just like regular power strips but with the added benefit of being able to reduce standby power consumption. By switching to smart power strips, you can save on your energy bill without any lifestyle changes. It’s an effortless way to make your home more energy-efficient.

4. Energy Monitoring Systems

Understanding where your energy goes is the first step toward reducing your bills. Energy monitoring systems give you real-time insights into your home’s energy consumption. With devices like the Sense monitor, you can identify which appliances are guzzling the most power. With this knowledge, you can make targeted changes to reduce energy waste. It’s like having a roadmap to a more energy-efficient home.

5. Smart Water Heaters

Water heating can account for a significant chunk of your energy bill. Smart water heaters offer the ability to heat water on a schedule, so you’re not paying to keep water hot when no one needs it. Some models even learn your habits and adjust their schedules automatically for maximum efficiency. This means hot water is always available, without the constant energy drain. The savings from optimizing your water heating can add up quickly.

6. Smart Window Coverings

Smart window coverings are about more than just convenience and aesthetics; they can be crucial to your home’s energy efficiency. By automatically adjusting to block out heat during the summer or let in sunlight during the winter, they help maintain your home’s temperature. This reduces the demand on your heating and cooling system. Controlled via an app or voice commands, they make it easy to save energy without sacrificing comfort.

7. Solar Panels

Investing in solar panels is a significant step towards reducing your energy bills. They harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, directly offsetting your energy consumption. The long-term savings and possible incentives from your local government or utility company offset the initial setup cost. Solar panels reduce your bills, increase your home’s value, and decrease your carbon footprint. It’s a sustainable investment that pays dividends in savings and environmental impact.

8. Smart Sprinkler Systems

Overwatering your lawn is not just a waste of water; it’s also a drain on your wallet. Smart sprinkler systems optimize your watering schedule based on local weather patterns and the specific needs of your plants. They can adjust automatically to skip watering before or after it rains, ensuring your garden gets the right water. By managing water use more efficiently, you’re helping the environment and reducing your water bill.

9. High-Efficiency Smart Appliances

Upgrading to smart, high-efficiency appliances can greatly affect your home’s energy consumption. These appliances use advanced technology to minimize electricity use without sacrificing performance. Whether it’s a refrigerator that alerts you when left open or a washing machine that adjusts the cycle based on load size, these smart features can lead to substantial energy savings. Many of these appliances offer remote control and monitoring, adding convenience to efficiency.

10. Smart Vents

Heating and cooling empty rooms is like throwing money out the window. Smart vents help solve this problem by automatically adjusting airflow to different rooms based on your needs. This means you can direct heating or cooling only to the rooms in use, improving the efficiency of your HVAC system. With easy installation and integration with smart thermostats, smart vents make it simple to optimize your home’s temperature and save on energy costs. It’s a smart way to ensure comfort where and when you need it most.

11. Programmable Smart Plugs

Smart plugs are the unsung heroes of energy efficiency. Turning any appliance into a smart device allows you to control power usage with just a tap on your smartphone. You can schedule lamps, fans, and coffee makers to turn off automatically when unnecessary, eliminating wasteful energy consumption. They’re an affordable and easy-to-use solution for anyone looking to dip their toes into smart home technology.

12. Home Energy Management Systems

For those ready to take their energy savings to the next level, a home energy management system is the way to go. These systems integrate with all your smart devices, from thermostats to lighting, providing a comprehensive view of your home’s energy use. Personalized insights and automated settings make it easy to reduce consumption and save money.

13. Smart Lighting Control Systems

Lighting control systems go beyond smart bulbs by managing all the lights in your home to ensure they’re used as efficiently as possible. These systems can adjust the brightness based on the time of day or whether a room is in use, significantly reducing electricity usage. They can also integrate with security systems, adding convenience and peace of mind.

14. Smart Insulation Monitoring

Keeping your home well-insulated is key to energy efficiency, and smart insulation monitoring can help. These innovative systems use sensors to track temperature and humidity levels, identifying areas where heat or cool air might escape. By pinpointing these weak spots, you can make targeted improvements to your home’s insulation, leading to immediate and long-term savings on heating and cooling.

15. Voice-Controlled Home Automation

Voice control brings the convenience of smart technology to a whole new level. Integrating voice commands with your smart home system allows you to adjust settings on thermostats, lights, and appliances without lifting a finger. It’s not just about convenience; it’s also about efficiency. Voice-controlled automation encourages more consistent and thoughtful energy management by making it easier to control your home’s energy use.