With the summer months finally here, we need to remember to help animals survive and thrive on hot days. Since natural water sources can dry up, consider putting out a shallow dish with cool water or even filling up a plastic tub and placing it outside. Birds and other small animals will flock to get a cool drink of water. And if you have a dog, it's important to avoid taking it outside between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. These are the hottest hours of the day, and surfaces like sidewalks and roadways can be too hot for its sensitive paws.

If you know a mom-to-be who is having her second or third child, hosting a baby shower could lead to more gear and clothing that she doesn't need for her little one to come. Many moms are hosting baby showers where they ask guests to bring new items for the baby, which are then donated to charities like Baby2Baby or Baby Buggy. These nonprofits then distribute the items to moms in need in communities across the country, helping to serve those women who need it most. It's a simple and easy way to have the baby shower and help others in your community, too.

Are you making fresh-squeezed juices at home? There are many health benefits to juicing. But one of the downfalls? All of the pulpy, fibrous waste that comes out the other end of the juicer. Instead of tossing it in the trash or down the garbage disposal, give composting a try. Since the organic matter is so finely pulverized, it will break down quickly in a small backyard compost bin. Mix it with grass clippings, leaves and coffee grinds, and watch it turn into beneficial mulch in just a few days. You can also sprinkle some of the juicer pulp right into the garden, where it will break down and feed the plants -- plus, birds love to peck at it!