I have to admit, I feel kind of bad trashing the Big Belly solar compactors that have been popping up around the city. In theory they’re good. And while there are no replacements yet for the ones on Newbury Street or Mass. Ave., I’ve seen some new models in Copley, Central, and Harvard squares. These ones are a new design and seem to be getting much less disgusting.

I’m happy to host the Festival of Frugality this week. Back when we graduated from college, Jason and I were $100,000 in debt, and personal finance bloggers were a great source of advice and inspiration. Nine years later, we’ve paid off all our debt (yay!), but a lot of their frugal tips can be applicable to our conservation goals, as well.