There are many lifestyle changes we can make without breaking the bank. Here are some no-cost and low-cost ideas to help you save energy and money while staying comfortable during the colder winter months.

1. Take advantage of heat from the sun

• Open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home.
• Close the curtains at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

1. Cover drafty windows

• Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration.
• Install tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty.
• Find out about other window treatments and coverings that can improve energy efficiency.

1. Adjust the temperature

• When you are asleep or out of the house, turn your thermostat back 10° to 15° for eight hours and save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. A smart or programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature. 
• If you have a heat pump, maintain a moderate setting or use a programmable thermostat specially designed for use with heat pumps.

1. Find and seal leaks

• Seal the air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes ("plumbing penetrations"), gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
  • Find out how to detect air leaks.
  • Learn more about air sealing new and existing homes.
• Add caulk or weather-stripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
  • Find out how to select and apply the appropriate caulk and weather-stripping. 

1. Maintain your heating systems

• Schedule service for your heating system.
• Furnaces and heat pumps: Replace your filter once a month or as needed. Find out more about maintaining furnaces or boilers and heat pumps.
• Wood- and Pellet-Burning Heaters: Clean the flue vent regularly and clean the inside of the appliance with a wire brush periodically to ensure that your home is heated efficiently. Find other maintenance recommendations for wood-and pellet-burning appliances.

1. Reduce heat loss from the fireplace

• Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.
• When you use the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly – around 1 inch – and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F.
• If you never use your fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue.
• If you do use the fireplace, install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.
• Check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible.
• Purchase grates made of C-shaped metal tubes to draw cool room air into the fireplace and circulate warm air back into the room.
• Add caulking around the fireplace hearth. Find out more techniques to improve your fireplace or wood-burning appliance's efficiency. Learn tips for safe and efficient fireplace installation and wood burning.

For more tips on how to save energy this winter, visit sdge.com/winter.
Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/fall-and-winter-energy-saving-tips
​

At first, “A Christmas Love Story” has all the hallmarks — if you’ll excuse the pun — of a typical Christmas TV movie.
A single lady choir director, Katherine, gets her youth choir geared up for the holidays. A young man, Danny, shows up as a volunteer for the props—but as soon as the choir director exits the room, he’s on the piano, crooning out a tune with the skill of a pop star.
Naturally, there’s an “obstacle:” The dad of the young man, Greg, doesn’t want his son to spend time in choir because the goal is for him to work at a financial firm, not live in a garret while chasing singing stardom.
And of course, of course, because this is a Christmas movie not made by a Grinch, Greg is a widowed, attractive guy who as soon as he meets Katherine starts to realize that maybe a life singing is better than a life on Wall Street.
So far, so normal.
Then, “A Christmas Love Story” has a unique twist.
Look, I’ve grown fond of Hallmark movies over the past couple of years. But I look to them much as I look to sugar cookies: insubstantial, cheerful fluff. In short, I don’t anticipate being genuinely moved one iota when watching them.
But “A Christmas Love Story” somehow manages the impossible.
We find out that Katherine gave up a child for adoption when she was younger, and shortly after, that Danny is her son — and the whole reason he volunteered to help with the choir is that he wanted to meet her. The two have a short, beautiful conversation in which Katherine expresses her joy that Danny’s adopted mom was the right woman to raise him and her happiness at seeing her son grown up.
It’s a wonderful moment—and as I found out later, all the more poignant because the actress depicting Katherine, Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth, was adopted herself.
In an article published on People in 2015, Chenoweth says:
I knew that my birth mother loved me so much that she wanted to give me a better life. And my parents, Jerry and Junie Chenoweth, were looking to adopt a baby and found me—literally less than one week after I was born.
Growing up, my parents explained my adoption by telling me, “We chose you.” It was a wonderful way to put it to an adopted child. And I think it’s true. An adoption is a full-circle blessing.
Chenoweth added, “I would thank my birth mother for loving me enough to make such a huge sacrifice. It’s a great gift for me to be able to say: ‘I know that I came from love, and I know that I have love.’”
No wonder the scene was so powerful.
When my dear friend, fellow Hallmark movie aficionado and Susan B. Anthony List vice president of communications Mallory Quigley, tweeted about the movie’s pro-life message, Chenoweth responded that it was “told from my gut.”
“That scene happened to me,” Chenoweth said on Facebook Live, per The Daily Wire. “I am adopted and I had this virtually same conversation with my birth mom.”
“I remember [my birth mom] saying to me, ‘Can you ever forgive me?’” she added. “And I was like, ‘There’s nothing to forgive. You gave me such a great life.’ I got the right parents.’”
If you’re looking for a family-friendly movie this Christmas season that affirms the value of all human life, check out “A Christmas Love Story.” It’s a powerful reminder, in this season of counting our blessings and cherishing our loved ones, that people matter the most—and every one of us deserves a chance to live.
LifeNews.com Note:  Katrina Trinko writes for The Daily Signal. Reprinted with permission from the Daily Signal.

Keep holiday light decorating safe, ENERGY-efficient, festive and fun
People love lighting up their homes for the holidays – whether it’s inside your home along the fireplace, or on your front lawn decorating your trees and bushes. What most people don’t love is the increase in their electricity bill after all the holiday cheer and lights are gone.

Here are some ways to be energy-efficient this holiday season:

1. Make smart lighting choices. 

• LED holiday lights are the way to go! They use up to 80% less energy, are brighter and safer, as they are much cooler than incandescent lights. They’re easier to install—up to 24 strings of LEDs can be connected end-to-end without overloading a wall socket. They last ten times longer and have no filaments or glass to break.

1. Limit usage of energy.

• Set timers for lights to turn on and off automatically. Keep light displays on during the evening and turn them off overnight. Set timers for lights to automatically turn on when it gets dark and off in the middle of the night. You can save more by keeping light displays on only 8 hours of the evening (when you can see them).  

1. Get reflective.

• Shiny ornaments, tinsel and mirrors can multiply the effects of your lighting without using more energy. Be sure to keep tinsel away from pets, though. Reflective ornaments and tinsel are just as bright at night, so getting creative with your lighting display can multiply your resources for shine. Don't forget the ribbons, wreaths, garland, and reflective menorahs, for electricity- free age-old traditions still bring holiday cheer.  

Be sure to stay safe over the holidays. Here are some great tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

1. Plan ahead. Avoid overloading extension cords and wall sockets by following the manufacturer’s limits for the number of light strings that can be safely connected together. 
2. Hang lighting safely. Make sure that no cords will be pinched by furniture or placed under rugs, furniture or other appliances. If covered, cords can overheat or become frayed, increasing the risk of fire. Replace faulty lights instead of trying to repair them.
3. Avoid electric hazards outdoors. Before climbing ladders to string outdoor lights, check for overhead power lines on your roof or attached to your home. Keep at least 10 feet away from overhead lines at all times. Never place yourself or any object such as a string of lights in a position that risks contact with a power line—the result can be fatal. 
4. Use GFCI outlets. Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). How do you know if it’s a GFCI? Look for the “test” and “reset” buttons. If circuits are not GFCI-protected, portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased. 
5. Check your environment outdoors. Before stringing lights on outdoor trees, make sure tree limbs haven’t grown into or near power lines. Branches, entire trees and even the ground adjacent to a tree can become energized when trees contact power lines. 
6. Put your tree in a safe location. Do not place your holiday tree near a heat source such as a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, making it more susceptible to fires caused by heat, flame or sparks. 
7. Check condition of lights. Inspect light strands for cracked or broken plugs, frayed insulation or bare wires. Worn cords can cause fires, so discard damaged sets of lights. 
8. Read the labels. Be sure to check each product label to see whether the lights are intended for indoor or outdoor use. Make sure lights have a tag indicating they have been evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. 

Much like summertime, when you see your energy bills spike from using the A/C too often, wintertime is no different – but for opposite reasons. Rather than keep cool, you’ll be trying to stay warm! It’s no surprise that heating costs can take a toll on your budget and even cause unnecessary stress. But did you know that electric heating systems can total as much as 40% of your electric bill every month? While natural gas furnace heating can total more than half of your natural gas bill, there are several ways you can combat home heating costs and lower your electric bill. 

If you’d like to cut your energy expenses and contribute to reducing environmental emissions, check out these six no-cost and low-cost tips and prepare to save:

1. Consider using programmable thermostats or time clocks that regulate temperature, setting them at comfortable temperatures while awake and only lowering them when you sleep or are out of the house.

2. Use the sun to your advantage and naturally heat your home throughout the day by keeping curtains that face the sun open. 

3. Cover the inside of your window frames with clear plastic sheets to keep the heat from escaping your home or install insulated shades/drapes.

4. Use a portable space heater to warm up the rooms you spend the most time in, if possible.

5. If you have a fireplace, ensure the damper is closed to prevent the cold from coming in and the heat from escaping. And if you don’t use your fireplace, consider sealing/plugging the chimney flue.

6. Keep your heating systems in top shape by scheduling maintenance and changing the filter once a month (or when necessary).

For more tips to reduce your energy usage, visit sdge.com/energy-tips.

Think smart. Don’t leave your safety to chance. Take steps to prepare for any emergency now. Here are some ways to get ready for an emergency.

Update your contact information: Go to sdge.com/MyAccount. Click on “Manage My Account” to update your contact information, including email address.

Sign up for power outage notifications: Click on the “Alerts and Subscriptions” tab. Select “Outage Notifications” from the drop-down menu. Select how you want to stay informed, e.g. email, text and/or phone.

Develop an emergency plan: Identify a place to meet with family including safe routes and shelters, as well as what actions you will take. Discuss and practice the plan with your family, including your kids.

Prepare an emergency kit: Keep the essentials on hand. Make sure your kit is stocked with items you and your family need, including for your pets, seniors and those with a disability. Store items in easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks or plastic crates. 

Help your neighbors: Being a good neighbor takes more than sharing the occasional cup of sugar or hosting a potluck. It’s important to help our neighbors during emergencies, especially the elderly and disabled. 

​​#staysafe #sdge

During an emergency, every second counts. Thoughtful planning can help keep you safe and reduce the stress of having to scramble for what you need most. Prepare an emergency kit to help safeguard yourself and your loved ones from unexpected emergencies like earthquakes, floods or fires. Don’t forget to outline a family plan and practice safety drills before the need arises.
Being prepared means having food, water and supplies to last for at least 3 days. An emergency kit is a collection of basic items your family may need. Since you don’t know when a disaster will occur, prepare an emergency kit for your home, work and your vehicle.

Here are some items to consider adding to your emergency kit -

1. Non-perishable food; nutrition bars, tuna (don’t forget the can opener,) peanut butter, crackers
2. Water – one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation
3. First aid supplies
4. Change of clothes including a jacket, durable gloves and sturdy shoes to provide protection from broken glass and other debris
5. Rope for towing or rescue
6. Plastic sheeting and tape
7. Moist towelettes, trash bags
8. Cell phone and charger
9. Important family documents such as passports
10. Knife, screwdriver and other basic tools
11. Candles and waterproof matches
12. Food for pets, bowls, pet carriers
13. Recreational supplies like games or books for children and adults
14. Blankets or sleeping bags
15. Portable radio, flashlight and extra batteries
16. Essential medications and eyeglasses
17. Cash
    ​
    

Know how to manually open your garage door for easier access out of your home. Be sure to update your contact information with SDG&E. Visit sdge.com/myaccount and choose “manage my account.” You can also sign up for alerts like outage notifications at sdge.com/alerts. Find a host of emergency checklists for home and work on sdge.com/checklist. 

Source:  Dolman Law Group | February 13, 2017 | Defective Medications and Bad Drugs

The detrimental effects of the Mirena IUD to users are many, with the worst being migration of the device, puncturing the uterine wall and damaging organs within the body cavity such as the liver and intestines. Other possible side effects are ectopic pregnancy, fatigue, depression, mood swings, painful cramps and many more. Many women who are opting to have the Mirena IUD removed to avoid complications are experiencing many of the symptoms that they sought to avoid. These symptoms also occur with women who had the device removed after the prescribed duration of five years. These detrimental effects, known as the Mirena crash, or Mirena IUD crash, can occur for weeks or even months after removal of the device. In a great number of women, the symptoms were severe enough to negatively impact their lives.

The Mirena IUD is a T shaped device that is implanted in the uterus, containing a reservoir of synthetic progesterone which is slowly released. This synthetic product, Levonorgestral, causes a thickening of the mucous membrane inhibiting the travel of sperm, preventing pregnancy.

Mirena Crash after Removal

So, what is the Mirena crash? The Mirena crash is the name given to the symptoms of pain and discomfort that are prompted when the birth-control device is removed and the flow of synthetic hormones stop. It can be weeks or longer before the body realizes it needs to produce its own progesterone because it has become “lazy”, relying on the synthetic provision. This causes hormone imbalance or estrogen dominance. This same period of time reflects the Mirena crash duration. In many women this imbalance causes severe symptoms similar to those associated with the usage of the device. In some women, Mirena crash symptoms appear recurrently before each period, lasting for months. Some other women suffer for extended periods of time both physically and emotionally at any time, day or night. One sufferer described her feelings as being “smothered with severe despair” at night.

How long does the Mirena crash last?

Some women have reported the crash only lasting a few days, while others report weeks or months.
Medically speaking, there is no way to tell. This is because it all depends on how long your body takes to return to a normal hormonal balance. The sooner this happens, the sooner the symptoms will dissipate.

Mirena Crash Symptoms

Mirena crash symptoms include:

Runaway emotions such as anxiety, sadness, anger and depression. Severe cases have produced suicidal thoughts.

Frequent mood swings that can strain relationships and effect work performance

Lethargy

Physical symptoms such as muscle fatigue, cough, sore throat and even fever which are often misdiagnosed

Nausea, vomiting and stomach pain

Breast tenderness

Decreased sex drive and painful sex

Denial of Mirena Crash

Many physicians will not acknowledge the side effects as being attributable to the Mirena crash after the device has been removed for a period of time. They only rely on the information provided by Bayer the producer of the product. Women are told that their tests are normal and their symptoms are blamed on a number of different causes from anxiety to early menopause. The fact the every woman can experience different reactions makes the doctors accurate diagnoses and treatment less likely.

Mood Swings after Mirena Removal

The symptoms associated with the removal of the Mirena IUD are not necessarily life-threatening, although that’s not to say they’re not painful. However, one symptom does pose some risk, the emotional effects. According to a study of Mirena removal, depression occurs in 36% of women under the age of 33 with a higher percentage for those 34 and older. Once the device has been removed and hormone levels are disrupted, patients often experience changes in mood. These range from depression, sudden mood swings, and abnormal behavior. This is caused by the abrupt changes in the concentration of hormones, which disrupts the way the brain and body functions. One of these emotional changes (or a combination of them all) is the possibility of suicidal thoughts. Obviously, this poses a serious risk if severe. If you are experiencing this symptom, speak to a healthcare professional right away. 

Emotional symptoms of Mirena removal may include:

Consistent sadness, hopelessness, and/or anxiety

Mood swings and irritability

Feeling of always being tired

Trouble concentrating

Loss of interest in once enjoyable activities

Excessive sleeping or insomnia

Changes in appetite

Thoughts of suicide

Other Mirena IUD Complications

Mirena IUD can cause other serious complications besides the hormone imbalance referenced above. In fact, Mirena has been known to cause birth injuries to babies who are conceived and carried by women who still have a Mirena IUD in place, posing a serious risk to the developing fetus. This is especially true if the IUD is not removed early on in the pregnancy. Becoming pregnant while your IUD device is still in place can also cause ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, premature birth, and even birth defects and fetal abnormalities.

https://www.dolmanlaw.com/mirena-crash-lawyers/

Wildfires, earthquakes and flooding all pose serious risks to our community. Though we can’t eliminate the threat of these emergency situations entirely, we can help you prepare for them. Here are 3 actions you can take today to get you started:

1. Create a personalized emergency supply kit for your home, car and office. You never know where you will be in the event of an emergency.
2. Develop an emergency plan for you and your family. Be prepared for the unexpected.
3. Update your contact information so you can stay informed. Be emergency-ready. Be prepared to keep yourself and your family safe.

​Visit sdge.com/wildfiresafety today to make any changes to your personal information and learn more about what you can do to keep you and your family safe. Also, you’ll be able to explore some of the projects SDG&E is working on now to keep you and the community safe.

Time is money. When you use energy determines how much you can save. Every little bit counts when it comes to saving energy. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Keep blinds, curtains and other window coverings closed during summer days to help block unwanted heat and reduce cooling costs
• Program your thermostat to precool your home to a lower temperature up to three hours before 4 p.m.
• When possible, use heat-generating appliances such as washers, dryers and dishwashers later in the evening during off peak-hours.
• Set your time to run your pool pump during off-peak hours when energy prices are lower.

Find more summer tips at sdge.com/whenmatters
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