Check out this list from energy.gov for ways to save energy during the summer.

• Install energy-efficient window treatments and coverings to prevent heat gain through windows.
• Use a ceiling fan. When used in conjunction with an air conditioner, you will be able to raise the air conditioner by 4 degrees without reducing your comfort level.
• Complete routine maintenance on your air conditioner to ensure it is running smoothly.
• Seal cracks and other openings to prevent hot air from entering the home. Apply caulk or weather stripping to seal leaks.

What energy-efficient ways do you keep cool in the summer? Let us know in the comments section below!

Thank you flickr user John Loo for this photo.

To commemorate Flag Day, we have some fun Stars and Stripes trivia for you!

1. Under what president was Flag Day officially established?

2. What was the first song to be written about the American flag?

3. In what year did President Truman make Flag Day a national holiday?

4. How many versions of the American flag have their been?

Answers

1. President Woodrow Wilson in 1916

2. The Star Spangled Banner by Francis Scott Key

3. 1949

4. 27 – it hasn’t changed since July 4, 1960 when a star for Hawaii was added.

How’d you do on our Old Glory quiz? Let us know in the comments below!

Thank you flickr user Justin Grandfield for this photo of Old Glory.

Socks and ties are arguably the most common Father’s Days gift. Put a fun and green twist on it by getting him socks or ties made from recycled materials, hemp or bamboo.

Is your dad a golfer? Add some eco-friendly golf balls or golf tees to his golf bag.

Maybe your dad is into the outdoors and likes digging in the garden. In that case, gift him some organic seeds for his garden.

What are your plans for Father’s Day? Let us know in the comments.

Thanks flickr user Joshua Smith for this photo!

Here are a few blooms that thrive in this Texas weather, and most need only minimal watering – think once a week!

• We love the beautiful blues and purples of the Mealycup Sage. And it’s native to the Texas, Mexico and New Mexico area.
• We love the pops of color of the vibrant Zinnia!

Before planting these beauties, make sure to prepare the garden. No matter the plant, they all need a good foundation to really take root.

Prep the soil with organic matter to help the plants retain moisture – a very important step in our hot, dry areas! Buy quality, healthy plants for a stronger, thriving garden. Lastly, add plenty of mulch.

Let us know how your garden is holding up in the heat in the comments section below!

Thank you flickr user Jerry for this beautiful photo of the Mealycup Sage.

We love visiting the ocean to swim and surf. The ocean provides us with water to drink and food to eat. Speaking of seafood, in honor of World Oceans Day, we’d like to take this opportunity to tell you about sustainable seafood.

Sustainable seafood helps manage this precious resource. Although it may seem unending, aggressive fish farming and the world’s appetite for seafood has drastically reduced the fish count.

Participate in a World Oceans Day event near you!

Thanks flickr user LASZLO ILYES for this photo.

Now it is time to create a disaster supply kit for when a storm hits. FEMA has great guide for building one.

Here’s a list of a few items you’ll want to make sure to include:

• Canned food: Check frequently to ensure food has not expired. Don’t forget a can opener.
• Air tight containers or plastic bags: These will keep your supplies dry.
• Clean drinking water: Have one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation.
• Battery-powered radio: Don’t forget extra batteries!
• First aid kit

Thank you flickr user zoutedrop for this photo!

Here are some eco-friendly accessories for summer!

• Sunscreen
• Beach towel
• Ice cream
• Sand toys

What accessories can you not live without during the summer? Let us know in the comments.

Thank you flickr user Vince Alongi for the beach photo.

Here are some tips to successfully and safely weather the storm.

• Make sure shed doors are closed tightly, otherwise, they could end up blowing off their hinges and becoming dangerous projectiles.
• Bring in flags, awnings and house ornaments. (Think wreaths.)
• Don’t leave cars parked under trees (especially if you may be in the car when the storm strikes!).
• Check pool covers to ensure that they are secure.
• Be alert for hurricanes.
• Storm surge flooding causes high waves that can be more deadly than hurricane winds. Leave the coast and stay away from low-lying areas.
• Do not use candles during the storm, stick with battery operated flashlights.

Do you have a emergency disaster kit? What’s in your kit?

Thanks, flickr user Terry Presley, for this photo of a Texas storm.

• Shrimp spring rolls and lettuce wraps.
• Greek Salad with Baked Pita.
• No-cook vegetable pizza.
• No-Bake Fruit Pizza.
• Tuscan-style tuna salad.

Share your energy-efficient recipes with us on Facebook!

Thanks to Flicker users avlxyz for the photo!

1. Use reusable plates, cups, silverware and cloth napkins.
2. Use a gas grill instead of a charcoal one. Charcoal emits twice as much pollution!
3. Set up a trashcan and recycling bin. Educate your guests on what goes in each bin.
4. Help your friends coordinate carpools to the party location, or encourage them to take alternative transportation – bus, bike, walk, etc.

How do you make your party a green one?

Thank you, flickr user David Yu, for this photo.