September 10, 2011: Swap Ideas Day

1. Today will be mostly sunny with a high near 78, according to reports from the National Weather Service.

We're not sure how Swap Ideas Day originated, but a day devoted to creativity and productivity sounds like a good idea. If you have a good idea, why keep it to yourself? And if you hear a good idea, why not try it out? Swapping ideas, whether in-person or on an online forum can foster a sense of community and be totally invigorating.

Read on for a few fun (and free) ways to get and give ideas:

2. Whether you are looking to network, go hiking, discuss books, or meditate with a group, Meetup.com makes it easy to find people in your area with the same interests - perfect if you are looking for new people to swap ideas with. And if you can not find what you are looking for, why not start your own group?

3. Need ideas for something new to pop in the oven? Have a fantastic recipe you want to share? At Allrecipies.com, you can easily search for tons of new recipe ideas, write reviews and share your culinary creations with other foodies. This site also features an ingredient of the week to get you inspired.

4. Feeling crafty? Craftster.org allows you to swap ideas with fellow crafters. Advice and project inspiration can be found whether you like working with yarn, fabric, paper, clay, beads, etc...

5. If you are looking to re-feather your nest, The Home Depot offers project guides for every room in the house. They also have locations in Manchester and Enfield if you want to swap home improvement ideas face-to-face or if you are looking for supplies. Apartment Therapy is also a frequently updated (and totally addictive) resource for eclectic and inspirational decorating ideas.