Articles written by Naomi Szeben

Most shiny wrapping paper can't be recycled, so why buy wrapping paper that ends up in a landfill? Suite101 gives you some festive - and inexpensive - wrapping ideas.

Dec 16, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Channukah songs are getting mainstream: Reggae, punk-ska, rock or country versions can now be found. Suite101 looks at some very different versions of old favourites.

Dec 13, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Mocktails are more than just an alcohol-free version of traditional cocktails: They can be an elegant offering for underage or health conscious guests.

Dec 12, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Bath bombs are a decadent treat to soften skin and leaving it fragrant. Making your own out of all-natural products is gentle on your budget, too.

Nov 22, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Instead of pouring the dregs from your coffee pot down the drain, try using them in some creative ways. It will save money in the long run and yield pleasant surprises.

Nov 21, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Rick Smith of Canada's Environmental Defense interviewed environmental writer Adria Vasil for the "This Is Not a Reading" Series: A lighthearted look at serious issues.

Nov 17, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Keeping toxins like plastic or lead-based paints out of little ones' hands (and mouths) is surprisingly easy, fun and inexpensive.

Nov 17, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

While electronic greeting cards and invitations known as "e-vites" are getting popular, not everyone appreciates them. Here are some ways to tactfully send e-cards.

Nov 15, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Childhood obesity and diabetes are on the rise. Books for Treats keeps the fun in Halloween without contributing to tooth decay.

Oct 31, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Pre-wrapped candies are safer than homemade, unknown goods but they promote tooth decay rather than fun. Here are some candy-free alternatives for a green Halloween.

Oct 31, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Road trips, or even day-to-day errands with a baby means quick clean ups is needed. DIY versions of "Handi-Wipes" means fewer chemicals are released, and money saved.

Aug 20, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Teething pain keeps babies and parents awake at night. Choosing a plant-based remedy can put health-conscious parents at ease.

Aug 19, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Get little ones hooked on fresh air and activity, while spending nothing on gas and parking. A trip around the neighbourhood can be inexpensive and fun.

Aug 13, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Every plastic item has a symbol and a code on the bottom: But which ones can be recycled and which ones are unsafe as toys or for food storage?

Aug 11, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

A diaper mat is a baby shower gift that is used most frequently. Having one that's biodegradable and VOC-free makes everyone breathe easier.

Aug 7, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

A trip to the salon for a wax can be a painful experience for your skin and your wallet. This easy, chemical-free version is made from supplies found in every kitchen.

Aug 4, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Save your wallet, and reduce the amount of waste created from manufactured plastic: Organize friends to trade used, unloved toys and save them from the landfill.

Aug 3, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Buying a bottle of store-bought soda means adding artificial flavours and unnecessary colouring to your diet. If you want a cool summer treat, make your own syrup.

Aug 1, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

This collection of heartfelt children's letters rides on the coattails of the "Chicken Soup for The Soul" series while cashing in on President Barack Obama's popularity.

Jul 31, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Even the cheapest cell phone plans make money the same way: Use of time. Here are some ways to cut through phone companies' time-eating ploys.

Jul 30, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Cola may be cheap, but what's the cost to your wallet and waistline? Naomi Szeben suggests some healthy but delicious alternatives that won't bust your budget.

Jul 29, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Trying to get your kids to eat more fruit? Looking for a spill-free snack for car trips? Don't know what to do with softening fruit? The answer: Fruit Leather.

Jul 29, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Part 2 of a two-part series on waste reduction and elimination during a garbage strike.

Jun 29, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Even if you are not living in an area that has a garbage strike, having a contingency plan for disposing your garbage is a good idea.

Jun 29, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Whether you're an ardent sun worshipper, or a cautious appreciator who slathers every inch of exposed skin with sunscreen, at some point, sunburns happen.

Jun 27, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Summertime and frozen treats are meant for each other. Pity that sunshine and popsicles are not compatible: Until now.

Jun 23, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

When mosquitoes bite, you should know how to ease the itch without rinsing toxins down your drain. Suite 101 looks at green ways to soothe your skin.

Jun 22, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Founder and CEO of Toronto's first Housekeeper training and Butler School shows Suite101 reporter how to look like she has a staff of butlers on hand.

Jun 18, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Former Butler and current CEO of a Butler Training School, Charles MacPherson gives advice in running an organized and green household.

Jun 18, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

If you're staying in Toronto in July, there are plenty of events going on for free. This Suite101 article is the ultimate July guide to free fun.

Jun 11, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Buying a muffin a day from a fast food chain or bakery can be hard on your wallet - and your waistline. Here's the easiest and fastest breakfast you'll ever make.

Jun 10, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Part 2 of a Two Part Series on Writing Classifed Ads: This part focuses on selling your stuff safely, and keeping your home and email safe from fraudulent offers.

May 28, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Writing a classified ad is can be daunting. Writing an ad that gets attention and sells your goods can be easy with these tips to turn your junk into cash.

May 28, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Where's there summer fun, there's mosquitoes. Here are some healthier alternatives to DEET-laden bug repellents.

May 22, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Picnics are no longer about staid potato salad and soggy sandwiches. Menus are getting more sophisticated, and can be a great date idea.

May 20, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

If you don't already have travel plans, " Staycations" can be fun, too. Here are some tips to finding cheap - and sometimes free - events no matter what city you're in.

May 15, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

This second part of the article focuses on waste-free ways to promote your yard sale, and effective ways to get rid of your yard sale's leftovers.

May 10, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

A garage sale is a great way to get to make some spare cash while purging your home. Follow these easy, seven steps for your most successful jumble sale yet.

May 10, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Should you use paper plates or biodegradable plastic for your picnic? What's in biodegradable plastic, anyway? Suite101 looks at some choices for your summer parties.

May 7, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

May 24th celebrates Queen Victoria's Birthday. Suite101 shares some green ways to celebrate the long weekend, without leaving a trail of waste.

May 6, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Anyone can go into a store and buy a token Mother's Day present - but does it show you care? Suite101 shows what Simple Living means for Mother's Day.

May 5, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

This Easter, fill your kids' baskets with a fruit juice based candy you can make yourself. This recipe doesn't require fancy candy molds and only takes minutes.

Apr 9, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

St. Patrick's Day is all about going green. Adding an environmentally friendly component to your party food doesn't have to be expensive: Try organic herbs and greens!

Mar 15, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Part two about urban sustainability, featuring honoured speaker Majora Carter. She discusses the start of the Waterfront Greening Project and her work with SSBx.

Mar 13, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

American Environmental activist and consultant Majora Carter discusses her experiences in being a factor in transformin one of the United States' most violent cities.

Mar 13, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

No money to buy new wool? Have several old sweaters you love for its yarn, but won't wear? Learn how to reclaim wool and your closet space by recycling old knitwear.

Mar 10, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Raising awareness about climate change by turning lights off was Australia's bright idea three years ago. This year, over 500 countries will join in Earth Hour.

Mar 1, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Whether you are raising funds for WWF's efforts to prevent climate change or just hosting a gathering, here are some ways to have fun with limited or no electricity.

Mar 1, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Buying fast-food breakfasts is a waste of money and an insult to your taste buds. Make your own breakfast pancake sandwiches with these easy tips

Feb 22, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

This spring, get Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) out of your home by using an organic disinfectant found in nature: Vinegar.

Feb 19, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Spring cleaning is unpleasant enough without harsh chemicals; why use toxins while cleaning? Here are some DIY cleansers that are cheap, easy to use and eco-friendly.

Feb 19, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Florists insist you "say it with flowers" for Valentine's Day, but saying it ecologically is a challenge. Suite101 looks at eco-friendly bouquets and alternatives.

Feb 14, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Here are some options for creating an eco-friendly Valentine's Day card for That Someone Special, as well as edible versions for kids in school.

Feb 12, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Make a commitment to the planet and your sweetheart at the same time with "green" rings. (Eco-friendly jewellery may not be as unaffordable as you think.)

Feb 11, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

While some kitchen supply stores are selling ice cube trays shaped like shot glasses for ice-cube shots, consider these more affordable (and delicious) options.

Feb 9, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Make your Valentine green, but simple: Reduce your reduce your carbon footprint while you give romance a boost over a fondue dinner!

Feb 6, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Candles set the mood and add atmosphere. They can also leach lead and other toxins into the air, or present a fire hazard for the unwary.

Feb 5, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Making a gift basket is neither hard nor expensive. Suite 101 inspires readers with ways to win hearts while saving the planet.

Feb 4, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

If Valentine's Day is about individual feelings and unique sentiment, what's with the mass-produced gifts? Show you care with a custom made gift for someone special.

Feb 3, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

If you want a vegan, or organic donut, sometimes your best choice would be to make your own. Homemade versions are frugal but taste decadent.

Feb 2, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Throw a Groundhog Day themed party for an excuse to get everyone out of the house. February may be a short month, but cabin fever runs rampant this time of year.

Jan 31, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Petroleum, flavoured beeswax or mineral oil based lip balms are not as healthy as you may think. Suite 101 looks at alternatives to keeping your lips moist in winter.

Jan 30, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Posting a "No Junk Mail" sticker on your mailbox eliminates unwanted flyers, unaddressed mail and advertisements. It also saves forests from unnecessary destruction.

Jan 29, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Wraps, or slings keep Baby close and comfortable while keeping both hands free. They make stylish baby shower gifts and some don't require sewing expertise.

Jan 27, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

With some cities imposing plastic bag taxes and some stores outright banning them, there are more reasons to bring your own, or find a sustainable alternative to plastic.

Jan 25, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Greenwashing means covering up defects with green claims. Suite101 uncovers some dirt about toxic hand sanitizers.

Jan 22, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

With flu season in full swing, paper tissues and antibacterial gels are being sold at a record pace. Suite 101 looks at alternatives to tissues and hand sanitizers.

Jan 21, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Stadium food like steamed wieners are expensive to buy and so easy to make. Why pay for that store bought taste, when you can have a healthier, cheaper one at home?

Jan 19, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Super Bowl parties can wasteful and expensive if you use store bought chilli and plastic cups; here are some ways to save time and money while keeping the party fun.

Jan 19, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Winter gardening can be as easy as growing a Chia Pet; sprouting your own beans can be easier, healthier and cheaper than buying them in the store.

Jan 12, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

If you're thinking of losing the winter blues by going green, consider the following options when choosing an enviro-friendly paint.

Jan 8, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Gluten-free and low fat breakfast bars are hard to find, and at a cost when they are found. This inexpensive recipe for gluten free bars is easy to make.

Jan 6, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

If you've resolved to eat healthier foods for the New Year, don't skip out on breakfast. This healthier, cheaper breakfast bar won't leave wrappers in landfills.

Jan 5, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Removing those unwanted or unloved holiday gifts from one's home used to be a clandestine act. Now, bold party throwers toss parties to toss junk.

Jan 4, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Why give a gift that creates waste? Show your appreciation for your hosts by giving a gift that is both earth friendly and affordable: Emily Post would approve.

Jan 2, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Instead of buying an environmentally damaging gift bag, make one out of newspaper. It's easy, fast and won't wind up in a landfill.

Jan 1, 2009 - Naomi Szeben

Frugal parties like pot luck, are hip again. Here are some inexpensive menu ideas that are fun for all ages without making the host look cheap.

Dec 30, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Tired of watching the countdown to midnight on television? Here are ways to have a unique but fun bash without throwing your budget out the window.

Dec 30, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

If you're planning a Luck-themed pot luck, here are some symbolic foods to ring in the New Year. Read about how countries say "Happy New Year" with certain foods.

Dec 30, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Bust the clutter in your home by transforming old greeting cards into a fun toy or a tree ornament. Or, reuse the images and make a new greeting yourself.

Dec 27, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Given today's economy, green and simple ways to celebrate the New Year are most peoples' resolution. Suite 101 looks at ways to have fun without breaking the bank.

Dec 27, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Everyone knows how to dress a table with candles and flowers, but how about something that doesn't have to be tossed out once the event is over?

Dec 27, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Vegans will appreciate the effort of a home-made eggnog. This recipe is also good for the lactose intolerant, who still want to join in on the boozy, creamy treat.

Dec 26, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

For those who buy extra boxes of greeting cards and find spares you don't want to repeat next year, host a swap meet to get rid of clutter.

Dec 23, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Chanukah marks the celebration of a miracle: A limited resource lasted eight days instead of one. Celebrate Chanukah in awareness of today's environmental situation.

Dec 23, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

While chocolate coins in gold foil called geld are traditional, here are some creative sugar-free ways to celebrate the festival of lights.

Dec 21, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

More holiday cooking means more food scraps: What to do with all the organic waste if composting or green bins are not an option? Suite 101 looks at vermicomposting.

Dec 14, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

A well-wrapped gift can indicate how much care was put into selecting and presenting the gift itself. Eco-friendly wrapping paper puts new polish on the old tradition.

Dec 13, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Save money and time with a reusable tree, or go with a biodegradable, traditional option? Suite101 looks at both options for a greener, simpler Christmas.

Dec 13, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Finding plastic-free toys for Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanza can be a challenge. Here are some gift giving suggestions that saves the planet and your budget.

Dec 12, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Spice stores and gourmet shops sell mulling spices this time of year, but if you want something organic and affordable, the best option is a blend you make yourself.

Dec 9, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Sometimes, eco-terminology can be confusing, even for those who've been recycling for years. Find out what your carbon footprint is, and how it impacts the earth.

Dec 5, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Is mineral based makeup better for your skin? Some labels on natural makeup that promise healthy skin may be misleading.

Dec 4, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Other than attractive packaging, nothing prevents a frugal gourmet from making infused oil with organic ingredients. These flavoured oils are as easy as they are elegant.

Dec 3, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Every office creates waste, but few see it as an opportunity to build teamwork in a real-world context. Learn how to make a corporate green space without ecolo-nagging.

Dec 2, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Tired of chocolate or sugar laden commercial advent calendars? Try making this cute, easy and reusable version that can be filled year after year!

Dec 1, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Getting bored with bringing leftovers for lunch, or making that same old baloney sandwich? Try something new with these enviro-friendly lunch ideas.

Nov 30, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Keeping healthy and saving money often means bringing your own lunch. Here are some tips in keeping the earth as green as your lunch.

Nov 30, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

The bright colours in commercial plasticine are unnatural, if not outright unhealthy. So why not make something natural, fun and biodegrable with your kids?

Nov 24, 2008 - Naomi Szeben

Large holiday dinners can leave a dent in your budget and on the earth. Here's a recipe that is healthy and delicious without being difficult or expensive.

Nov 23, 2008 - Naomi Szeben