Learning to do your part

By Barbara Sims

It's all about "Going Green."

You see it and hear it everywhere you turn, and you have probably thought "I want to do my part for the earth, and my children, but where do I start? Where can I get the information I need about 'Going Green?'"

Start right here with me, long time Seattle resident Barbara Sims, and my new occasional column "Let's Talk 'Going Green.' Just think of me as your personal guru for all things "Green."

In upcoming columns I will answer all your questions, and explain everything you need to know about "Going Green." Are hybrids really green? After one of those curly bulbs burn out, you can't just throw them in the trash, so what do you do with them? Do they really contain mercury?

Things are expensive enough and I'll provide you with the information you need to save money "Going Green." Do you really want to spend 20 cent per bag every time you go shopping? As your Green Guru I will explain how you can make your own green alternatives to expensive cleaning products and insecticides that will save you money and benefit your health. So let's get started "Going Green."

Got Ants?

Ant season is upon us, and unfortunately ants do not understand that your home is not simply another log in the woods for them to eat or live in. If you have to do battle with these destructive guys, here is a green alternative you can make with products you probably already have in your home. As a bonus you can save gas money on a trip to the store.

1. Fill a 16 oz. spray bottle with water.

2. Add 3 tablespoons of liquid hand soap or 1 tablespoon liquid laundry detergent.

Just shake the bottle well, and spray it on your crawling friends, and in a few seconds the battle is over. Not that you want to take advantage of the ants well developed sense of smell, but a scented liquid soap will work great also. If you are spraying in an environmentally sensitive area, it is best to use a liquid detergent soap.

And remember, even though this is a safe, green alternative, you should avoid inhaling the spray, otherwise it will taste like having your mouth washed out with soap. Also be sure to first plug all entry holes with caulking. Repeat this process as necessary throughout the ant season.

This effective green alternative will save you the cost of an expensive commercial spray.

Barbara Sims may be reached via wseditor@robinsonnews.com