Robotikits 6-in-1 solar kit is an amazing way to educate children (and adults!) on how solar power works. It’s also great brain stimulation for the mechanically minded. This kit comes with plastic pieces that make a solar airboat, windmill, puppy, car, plane and revolving plane. The age recommendation is 10+, but bright children who are younger will be able to do at least some of the building on their own or at least the attempt may bring them a sense of accomplishment and independence.
The model pieces snap together easily and the directions are straightforward. The motor was made from a simple gear and the solar panel was pretty sturdy compared to the other plastic pieces. 
Each model worked fine as long as the wires were attached correctly. My husband thought that the wires should have had little handles on the end, similar to those on jumper cables, so they were easier to handle and stayed in place better. It’s just that the wires were easily displaced, which was done many times at our house with all the little fingers eager to see how each model worked. It was hard for us as well since the pieces are so small and thin wires had to be pushed into a small crack in the side of the gear box.
But all in all we were pleased with the results, the experience and education that it provided our whole family. An additional plus is that the kit is totally reusable and may be re-assembled into its different variations many times over, if none of the parts get lost!
The kit retails for $21.99 and may be purchased @ anpawi.com
I love to send Christmas cards, but there’s a lot of “waste” involved. For the past couple of years I’ve sent 
When setting the table or entertaining, bring out the real thing. Kick things up a notch by using China, glassware, silverware, cloth napkins and table coverings to make everyone feel like your gathering really is a special occasion. Ask family to help set up and clean up, or hire additional hands to help make it all happen. Using the good stuff requires extra time and special attention so reach out for help, don’t take on the additional stress by doing all yourself.
Keep the decorating simple and “live” if possible. Gather pine cones, evergreen boughs, branches, stones and fashion your own wreaths, garland and centerpieces. I’ve been doing this for the past several years and I always surprise myself by how easy it is, and how beautiful it is to bring natural elements from outside into my home. If your creations are cool enough, you can even give them as gifts. My sister gathered pine cones and made beautiful pine wreaths that we’ve been reusing for the past few years.
Gifts don’t always have to be a new off the shelf item, bought in a big box and then wrapped in glossy paper tied with a big bow. Rather than toss a preloved item — digital camera or old iPod, jewelry or decorative item — give it as a gift to someone who can actually use it.
If you do need to go shopping, get organized. Plan ahead to allow for the most efficient way to get from Point A to Point B. This will cut down on the amount of gas you use and save time as well. Shop locally as much as possible, and carpool to make your trips to the store not only more energy efficient but also more fun.
If you grow your own herbs, salad and veggies, use them – whether fresh or dried. Dried lavender makes the most wonderful sachets. I’ve wrapped dried herbs in vintage handkerchiefs and tucked them into stockings. They’re sweet little surprises. I’ve also left them on their stems and used the lavender as an accent on a fresh evergreen wreaths. (photo credit: 
If you opt for the live Christmas tree, be sure to recycle it — create mulch, or give it an afterlife in a pond or lake – the fish and aquatic life love it. We’ve done this for the past several years, (at right), it warms my heart and strokes my soul.
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