My Google searches are much lamer now that I'm a grown up.

So it turns out that electricity is expensive. I'm on the utility company's "budget billing" program, wherein I pay a set amount every month, which they adjust periodically based on my actual usage--but so far I have paid for less than I have actually used. Not good. I want to make them owe me money. So I Googled "how to save money on your electric bills."

Apparently, that would be an easier task if I owned instead of rented and/or if I had a lot of money, because here are some of the most common tips:

1. Install ceiling fans, and use them instead of the air conditioning.
2. Make sure all your appliances are Energy Star.
3. Switch to gas heat and/or a gas water heater.
4. Make sure your attic is well-insulated and while you're up there, install a whole house fan!

Yes, let me get right on those things! I'm sure my landlord (and my upstairs neighbors) would be thrilled if I installed ceiling fans.

Unfortunately, what I've discovered is that I already do most of the easy, non-invasive things, like turn off the lights the moment you leave the room, and open the blinds to let in more warm sunlight during the winter. Most of my lightbulbs are CFLs. I do my laundry with cold water.

What's left? Shiver, apparently. And I hate shivering.


Singing along to: Mumford & Sons, Winter Winds. Y'all, this album--Sigh No More--is SO. GOOD. So good!