Microphilanthropy

Charitable giving comes in many forms, but the latest trend is toward microphilanthropy, which involves direct interaction between individual donors and projects. This giving is popular because donors can give small amounts that make a big difference and choose where their money goes. Some examples include DonorsChoose.org, which funds specific project requests from teachers in U.S. public schools; GlobalGiving.org, a marketplace that connects donors to 1,000 pre-screened grassroots charity projects around the world; ModestNeeds.org, which assists families who are unable to pay their monthly bills; and Kiva.org, which is peer-to-peer micro-lending to the applicant of the donor’s choice. You can check out these organizations, get tips on setting your philanthropic goals for 2011 and research more than 5,500 other charities by visiting www.charitynavigator.org, an independent charity evaluator.

Memory Boosters!

Have you misplaced your keys again? If you’re like most people, it’s an occasional annoyance. But if it’s happening more frequently than you’d like to admit, maybe it’s time for some memory boosters to help strengthen your mind. Here are five easy tips to improve your memory power: 1. Keep Items Where You’ll Need Them. Keep your keys by the front door; eye glasses in the same place everyday, and wallet/purse in the same location. 2. Keep A Notebook With A Calendar. Keep names, phone numbers, important dates, medical information, to do lists, and a notepad. Carry it with you (or carry a small notepad), so you can jot down information as needed. 3. Minimize Distractions. Focus on one thing at a time. Turn off the TV or radio when you need to focus your attention on a task. 4. Exercise Your Mind. Read, do crossword puzzles, play cards, chess, or a musical instrument to keep your mind active. Watch television shows like Jeopardy. 5. Take Care Of Your Body. Go for a walk, swim, or bicycle. It’ll clear your mind. And remember to eat a balanced diet and get enough rest!

Thank You Bob Del Bianco

Bob talked me into leaving Krauses Sofa Factory and my successful career to begin a new chapter. This marks my 23th year as a Realtor and I love my job! There are ups and downs of course but the satisfaction of helping people with such an important decision and the never ending learning is very rewarding! Bob began his career as a sales person, then founded Del Bianco Realty and was past president of the MLS. He took the time to train me right and I am proud to call him a friend and a mentor. I strive to follow his example and provide outstanding service as he did for over 40 years in the real estate business. This is a service business and he never forgot that the most important piece of the puzzle is you my friends/clients! Thank you Bob!

NW Resorts Offer Off-Season Rates

Winter is a great time to explore some of our states beautiful resort properties for a substantial discount. We can still get nice days and with fewer tourists you can appreciate these resorts without the big crowds. • Suncadia Resort – This time of year enjoy their cross country ski trails, winery, drives to Salmon La Sac and explore historic Roslyn. • Semiahmoo Resort – This time of year walk the beaches, build a raging fire, on a nice day rent a boat, or day trip to Vancouver BC. • Sun Mountain Lodge – The winter views will be amazing right now! Horse drawn carriage rides or a snowshoeing adventure. • Quinault Beach Resort – Ocean Shores is a nice place to be even if it rains. Enjoy a long walk or take a drive on the beach. • Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – Top golf resort in the nation. This time of year the winds usually slow down a little. I been there in the winter several times. There is not a bad time to be at Bandon!

Van Gogh Seattle Exhibit

Have you ever wanted to step into a painting? Since 2017 over 5 million visitors have enjoyed this immersive experience. The light and sound spectacular exhibit features two-story projections of the artist’s most compelling works. Relax and unwind while admiring Van Gogh’s works in a room with 360 digital projections. Plan on a visit of 60-90 minutes and of course a stop in the gift shop. Group bookings are encouraged as well as a VIP option. 1750 Occidental Ave S OpenWed-Sun from 10:00am. – Prices start at $39.90 per person. 213-277-2954 / www.vangoghexpo.com

Color Scheme Websites

Whether you’re redecorating a room, designing a website, or just looking for inspiration to add pop to your wardrobe, there are several websites that help you create beautiful color schemes. Coolers: coolors.co/ The Coolers site (also available as an app and a Chrome extension) creates color palettes based on images you can upload, or you can simply browse their endless array of popular color schemes. Muzli: colors.muz.li/ With Muzli’s color palette generator, you start with one color and Muzli offers options for other colors that coordinate well with it. Colormind: colormind.io/ Like many similar websites, Colormind will produce color palettes based on images you choose or offer random color schemes for inspiration—but Colormind lets you save the colors/lock them until you land on a palette you love.

Improve Gas Mileage

No matter how much you drive, improving fuel economy saves money and the environment. Here are some easy ways to make a tank of gas go further.  Keep Tires Properly Inflated – Check your tires weekly and inflate to recommended levels.  Slow Down – Going the speed limit uses less fuel (a highway speed of 65 instead of 75 mph can use up to 15% less fuel).  Change Speed Gradually – Sudden braking or acceleration uses much more fuel than increasing or decreasing speed in a gradual way.  Don’t Let the Engine Idle – If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, shut your car off rather than letting it idle.  Combine Trips – Map out a sensible route for errands and do them in succession rather than going back and forth across town.  Reduce Drag – When you’re not using the roof rack to haul camping gear or a bicycle, taking it off makes your car more aerodynamic.  Perform Regular Maintenance – Regular oil changes, new air filters, and spark plugs all help your car run more efficiently.