GET YOUR GREEN JEANS ON

CLUTTER CONSIDERATION

2011-09-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Really? You might say. A posting on 'clutter' - what does that have to do with being "GREEN"? Time, energy, resource management, over consumption - doesn't that all translate into improving your "greenage"? I've written about this before and am writing again about it.

As I sit here enjoying the quiet holiday I've been taking a moment to thumb through the ever increasing pile of magazines I've been collecting. It's one of my vices, what can I say - 90% of these subscriptions I've picked up for free, but none the less, there they sit waiting for me to leaf through the pages and glean whatever information and tid-bits I can out of them.

Once I do that, tho' - I have trouble parting with them. So much 'good stuff' is in there - I can't begin to remember it all...what to do, what to do...

As I was wafting through them at the table this morning, I began jotting down in a notebook all the notable pieces I wanted to refer to later so that I could garner as much from the magazines as I could. This was a little labor-some, even though I do love to write, and thought I'm still creating something else I have to store.

As I was writing a 'light bulb' came on! My blogs! I'll just summarize these notes on my blogs (where applicable) and possibly create a new one to house the other information that isn't. I'll enter the contests immediately and I'll bookmark websites that I might want to visit later.

Once I go through the mags, I'll take a stack of mags to work and share with my fellow magazine - aholics and drop others off at a local cafe. Woot, whoo! Magazine clutter problem solved!

THE CULLING CONTINUES

2011-05-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

Speaking of big moves, it's a good thing over the last year and half I've been busy clearing clutter and culling through the 'stuff' in my life. For many reasons. Simplifying, organizing, beautifying and so on. Who knew I'd be so grateful for this now that we are moving!

It's funny because I really thought I'd cleared out SO much! But when you start boxing things up - you really see how much you have.

I ran across this article while surfing the web for organizing and decorating tips. I've written quite a bit in the past about finding the "balance" about "wanting/having" and the "guilt" associated with too much 'stuff'.

I posted this on one of my other blogs and thought it was a good choice to post here. It has some great merits.

POST TITLE: VIRIDIAN: FROM THE LATIN 'VIRIDIS' - MEANING "GREEN"

The Last Viridian Note By Bruce Sterling

You may want to skip over the first 15 or so paragraphs of the article but here are some excerpts I thought were apropos for this time in my life as I cull through music, photographs, dishes, magazines, fabric, and over all "stuff" - I've been going through things for some time but am continuing the process.

1. It's not bad to own fine things that you like. What you need are things that you GENUINELY like. Things that you cherish, that enhance your existence in the world. The rest is dross. ...

2. The things that you use every day should be the best-designed things you can get. For instance, you cannot possibly spend too much money on a bed. ... The same goes for a working chair. Notice it. Take action. Bad chairs can seriously injure you from repetitive stresses. Get a decent ergonomic chair. ...

3. You will need to divide your current possessions into four major categories.

Beautiful things.
Emotionally important things.
Tools, devices, and appliances that efficiently perform a useful function.
Everything else.

4. "Everything else" will be by far the largest category. ... You should document these things. Take their pictures, their identifying makers' marks, bar codes, whatever, so that you can get them off eBay or Amazon if, for some weird reason, you ever need them again. ... Then remove them from your time and space.

5. Beautiful things are important. If they're truly beautiful, they should be so beautiful that you are showing them to people. They should be on display: you should be sharing their beauty with others. ...

6. All of us have sentimental keepsakes that we can't bear to part with. ... Is this keepsake so very important that you would want to share its story with your friends, your children, your grandchildren? ...

7. You will be told that you should "make do" with broken or semi-broken tools, devices and appliances. Unless you are in prison or genuinely crushed by poverty, do not do this. ... There is nothing more "materialistic" than doing the same household job five times because your tools suck. Do not allow yourself to be trapped in time-sucking black holes of mechanical dysfunction.

SOAP TO NUTS

2011-05-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

I didn't know this!! Very cool and I can't wait to try it.

The nuts (soap nuts) of the Chinese soapberry tree contain saponin, a natural detergent. A few nuts in a cotton drawstring bag will clean several loads of clothes without any chemicals. The nuts can be composted whey they are all "suds-ed" out.

These nuts are sustainably harvested, too. You can order them from maggiespureland.com or naturoli.com or www.greenvirginproducts.com

BIG MOVE

2011-05-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

After 12 years at the same place we're 'moving on' to another home closer to our kids. Instead of buying new boxes for moving our things we've procured 'used' moving boxes from my husband's work.

If your work setting does not allow for such, you can look for used moving boxes on Craigslist or other classified sites if you have a big move on your horizon.

Be sure to pass on any salvageable boxes after you're done.

LOVING AND LETTING GO

2011-04-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

We all have things we "love" - music, books, knick-knacks, fabric, you name it - someone has a "collection" of it somewhere.

I'm continually challenged with the desire to have and the guilt of having too much - or feeling I have too much. "Having" is great - there is a sense of comfort in being surrounded by the things that make you feel all warm and fuzzy, but with the "having" has to come the "balance".

I like a bargain. I like to be creative. I like to re-purpose things. I don't like to be wasteful. I don't like leaving "money on the table", as they say. My continuous challenge has been about the "balance". That fine line of having and having too much. When is having too much?

Well, for reasons already stated, I was drawn to the new TLC TV series called "Extreme Couponing". Prior to watching the show I thought the premise was going to be how to take your saving to the highest possible level using coupons. Boy, I was so far off the mark on that one.

After watching a few episodes I was disgusted. I wasn't really impressed at all. Definitely an example of how the need to "have" crossed the line. True these people have mastered the art of saving money at the grocery store using coupons. However it was merely "organized hoarding" if you will. Come on, people! If you are spending all your waking moments clipping, organizing, searching, analyzing, shopping, packing, unpacking, stocking your "stuff" - when do you live? Seriously.

As far as 'saving money'...well...if you have to "buy" coupons to get something for 'free' - is it 'free'? If you have to buy shelving units to store all your "free stuff" is it really free? Then there is the gas it takes to get to these stores, the wear and tear on your vehicle - there is a cost there, ya know...AND what about your time? Now.........if these folks were sharing their good fortune with others instead of piling on more items then they could possibly use, I may have a different view. I don't know - I wasn't impressed at all. Back to the idea of "balance". These people were definitely out of balance.

I've spent the better part of the last year cleaning clutter, organizing, learning about organizing and such. I've been asking myself tough questions about what I value most and how I want my time spent. I've lost grandparents over the years and through that process of seeing what's 'left behind' for others to deal with - it's really help me fine tune my decisions about my 'stuff'. It's a challenge. I want to enjoy my things, but I want to be responsible about it.

There are lots of "Downsize Challenges" and campaigns out there - lots of people spewing "over consumerism" mantras and such - but do we really put it into practice daily? Minute by minute? I don't think even the most efficient of all American's have really been able to conquer the 'gotta have' bug. Seriously. Spend some time in a less developed country and 'maybe' you'd get closer.

I've been working on a project now for about a month - converting all my music to digital media and storing on a portable hard drive. The hard drive is labeled and the CDs and LPs where the music originated from are being sold at used music stores, online or given away. Why? Well, I enjoy my music, yes, but I listen to it 1) on the radio in my vehicle, 2) on the radio in my kitchen, 3) on my computer or 4) on my iPod. So why do I want to take up valuable shelf / living space with countless plastic CD cases and LPs from the 70's? I don't. I did away with the plastic cases years ago - placing all my CDs neatly in a drawer - alphabetized and categorized - and the LPs have been taking up real estate in my garage now in a crate for years. There is new music everywhere and countless downloads of almost anything you can imagine. I'm not feeling left out by not having these things in my house.

Books. Oh how I love books. I've done well there, though, too. I've culled through many of the books I had (including cook books) and sold them on Amazon.com or gave them away to the library or Goodwill. I even put a few 'out into the world' via BookCrossing. The Library, I've begun a relationship with my Library again. It's so convenient now - online access to search - notifications by email. Then there are audio books and eBooks. I have many. They fit my life much better. This was a tough area for me. I LOVE books! I've crossed over now, though - I'm o.k. knowing that I will never have the time to get to all the books I want to. I ran across a GREAT article - please read...it's called "The Sad, Beautiful Fact That We're All Going To Miss Almost Everything".

Magazines. Now there is a hard one for me. First, let me say, I have many subscriptions - but few subscriptions I've actually 'paid' for. One was given to me as a gift and one other I paid for but got a GREAT deal on. The rest are free. Yes, free. Some may say that magazines are not a "green" choice. Well, I disagree. I get DIY ideas from them, ideas for re-purposing things, coupons for saving money, I read about time saving techniques, and on and on. I share the magazines with others and those I'm not able to find homes for get recycled!! I use to hang on to years worth of magazines which would line the floor of the closet in our spare room - did I EVER look back at them? Not! So one day - out they went. Sounds funny, but it was painful! All those beautiful photos and ideas - gone! Do I miss them? Nope! I have great closet space now!! Easy to vacumm now! As far as the ideas go? Well, I have the Internet. Google is my idea friend!

Well, I could go on but I won't. I'll just leave you with a challenge of my own - let me ask you this? What can you do without? Really now - when was the last time you took that book off the shelf you got from the college bookstore 20 years ago? Got LP's? Why? When was the last time you listened to them? How's the CD collection - tired of dusting it yet?

It's all about the balance.

MORE EARTH DAY FREE STUFF!

2011-04-15T22:44:00.000-07:00

Free Origins Product - In store, 4/22. Bring in your empty cosmetics (bottles, tubes, jars and compacts, any brand) to any Origins store for recycling and get free Origins samples.

Free Starbucks Coffee or Tea - Bring any reusable coffee mug to Starbucks on 4/22 and get a free coffee.

One Free Coffee - Offer from Whole Foods Coffee Bar. Bring in a reusable mug on 4/22 from 9am - 9pm to get a free coffee.

EARTH DAY FREEBIE!

2011-04-15T22:40:00.001-07:00

Join Disney Store on Earth Day! (U.S.)

Receive a FREE Reusable Shopping Bag on Friday, 4/22, when you bring in and recycle 5 plastic shopping bags.

*Limit one bag per Guest, while supplies last. Event subject to change or cancellation without notice. Excludes Outlet locations. Call store for more details.

LOVE MUCH, DESIRE LITTLE

2011-03-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

"Love much and desire little, if you would enjoy the world's beauty to the fullest" - Jeff Cox

With reports of economic downfall spewing from newscasts for over a year now, reports of other countries managing through horrific circumstances, how is it that American's go about their daily lives just "consuming" without conscience almost. Now I'm not saying that as successful people we should enjoy the 'fruits of our labor' - but when does success cross over into over consumerism?

Seriously. Shop-acholic-ism if you may. Do we really "need" so much "stuff"? Grant it, I'm not suggesting either that any of us should trade places with others in the world (or in our own country, for that matter) who are less fortunate - I'm just saying it wouldn't hurt to evaluate a little about what it is that we really "need".

Here are a couple of techniques to delay the "gratification" of over-consumption.

1. Create a "Wish List" - add every tempting new item you come across to this list.

Amazon.com has a great Wish List system that I have been using for years. It even allows you to add items you might find from any store. They have clear instructions on how to set it up and it's so easy to manage.

Here's what I do. Let's say I'm in Macy's and I see this beautiful serving platter or bowl that I "have to have"...I tell myself, "I'll add that to my wish list" - I come home and go to Macys.com - find the item and then put it on my Amazon.com wish list. I can keep track of all my 'desires'. This list tells you when it was added and how many you want along with the priority.

2. Make a "pack" with yourself that you won't purchase anything that isn't in the top three items and hasn't been on your list for at least a month (or six months or a year, depending on much you want to test yourself).

3. Revisit your list regularly. You may be surprised how many things are passing fancies you can simply "delete" from the list.

Another way to reduce clutter and too much "stuff" is to follow the "One In, One Out" rule. For everyone new (or new to you) item you bring into your house, you must get rid of one equivalent item (donate, sell, recycle - don't dump!). For example: A new book in means one book out; one new sweater in, means one sweater out.

When you get to the point where you'd need to give up something you REALLY love, you may begin to think differently about acquiring anything at all.

Again, for me - it's the whole time needed to manage all the "stuff" - cleaning, folding, washing, arranging, sorting, etc. NO THANKS! It's hard enough to take care of what I "NEED"... I'm slowly teaching myself to cut back (even if it's FREE stuff) on "stuff" to free up my time so it can be better spent on the things that mean the most to me...Not to mention, being more ecologically and environmentally responsible.

DIY: SPRINGTIME GLASS BOTTLE VASES

2011-03-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

GREAT DIY PROJECT FROM HAPPY CLIPPINGS!! ENJOY!!

DIY: Springtime Glass Bottle Vases

I am re-purposing glass again. This time I am using bottles instead of glass jars.

I thought some of our soon-to-recycled glass bottles might look cool as bud vases for flowers. I like that these bottles are green. The color green, the word “RENEW”, flowers and butterflies all make me think of spring!

I wanted to spruce up the bottles. I first thought of painting letters on them or placing some sort of letter adhesive. But then I saw a picture of a wine bottle with a gift tag on it. So I made my own gift tags and “prettied” them up. I love how using the gift tags makes the design changeable. You could take them off and use different tags with other letters to spell different words.

For this crafty project I used green glass bottles, a piece of a paper bag, scrap book paper, ribbon, string, hole puncher, small square foam double-sided adhesives, pencil, black sharpie pen, dark brown pencil, and glue. Most items you probably already have.

Here’s how I made my springtime glass bottle flower vases:

I first created butterflies. I made a butterfly template, traced it on scrap book paper and cut it out. I folded each butterfly in half to give some dimension. I also glued on some pretty green ribbon to the body to add texture.

To make the gift tags, I first cut out some squares using a square puncher. The bigger squares were made from a paper bag. The smaller squares were made from scrap book paper. I punched a hole in the top middle of each of the bigger squares. I then looped string each hole.

On the smaller squares I drew each individual letter. I created a templates for each letter. (I don’t have letter stencils). I traced it on the square, colored it in with a dark brown pencil and outlined it with a black sharpie pen. On the bigger squares with the hole and string, I placed a double-sided foam adhesive in the middle. I then placed and secured the smaller square on top. I used the foam adhesive to give some depth to these tags.

I tied the string of the gift tag around a glass bottle. I made sure I could easily get the tags on and off the bottle. There are a few reasons why. You want to have them off when filling each bottle with water. You don’t want to get these prettied up paper tags wet. I also didn’t my decoration to be permanent. This way later you can take it off and recycle or repurpose the bottles another way OR you can also create different words and change things around. The possibilities are endless using this flexible glass bottle decoration!

I liked to put something more permanent inside like “fake” flowers (made of fabric, tissues, etc) instead of fresh flowers. But I am loving it right now with fresh flowers.

GIVE IT UP

2011-03-09T23:58:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day of Lent, the period of forty (40) days leading up to Easter Sunday during which some practicing Catholics give up a 'vice' of sorts. Catholic or not, consider making a 'green' sacrifice for the next few weeks.

Some examples:

No meat
Limiting hot showers to five (5) minutes
Riding your bike to work one day a week
Bring in NO new plastic for the next 40 days

36 USES FOR WHITE VINEGAR

2011-03-03T10:11:00.000-08:00

36 Uses for Vinegar~courtesy of ALLYOU Magazine

Find innovative solutions to everyday problems with a product you already have in your kitchen

Unleash the power of white vinegar―an all-purpose cleaner, brightener, herbicide and more. Just a bit of this multi-tasker, straight up or mixed with water, can replace many pricier products huddled under your sink. Try these tips to see how vinegar can make your life cheaper and easier.

1. Stop static cling. Add ½ cup of white distilled vinegar to your wash cycle. The acid reduces static and keeps dryer lint from sticking to your clothes.

2. Make old socks look new. Get the stains out of old socks and sweaty gym clothes by soaking them in a vinegar solution. Add 1 cup of white distilled vinegar to a large pot of water, bring to a boil and drop in the stained clothes. Let them soak overnight, and in the morning stained clothes are fresh and bright.

3. Restore handbags and shoes. Wipe white distilled vinegar on scuffed leather bags and shoes. It will restore their shine and help hide the marks.

4. Banish weeds. Pour white distilled vinegar on the weeds growing in the cracks of your walkway and driveway. Saturate the plant so the vinegar reaches the roots.

5. Liven droopy flowers. Don’t throw out cut flowers once they start to wilt. Instead, add two tablespoons of white vinegar and one teaspoon of sugar to a quart of water. Pour the solution into your vase, and the flowers will perk up.

6. Put an end to itching. Dab a cotton ball soaked in white vinegar on mosquito bites and insect stings. It will stop them from itching and help disinfect the area so they heal faster.

7. Whiten your teeth. Brush your teeth once a week with white distilled vinegar. Dip your toothbrush into the vinegar and brush thoroughly. It will help prevent bad breath, too.

8. Make nail polish last longer. Before you apply your favorite polish, wipe your nails with a cotton ball soaked in white distilled vinegar. The clean surface will help your manicure last.

9. Keep car windows frost-free. Prevent windows from frosting over in a storm by coating them with a solution of three parts white distilled vinegar to one part water. The acidity hinders ice, so you won’t have to wake up early to scrape off your car.

10. Let your dog shine. Spray your dog with one cup white distilled vinegar mixed with one quart water. The solution is a cheap alternative to expensive pet-care products, plus the vinegar will help repel pests like fleas and ticks.

GREEN PRODUCTS FOR EVERY HOME/OFFICE

2011-02-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

LetsGoGreen.biz is a one-stop web store featuring 100's of eco-friendly home, office and business Green Products. They'll help you live a greener lifestyle, save money, and help the environment through the everyday products you use on a regular basis.

I have personally ordered from the is company and find their service, pricing, packaging and products excellent.

SAVE 25% on green products but using the code: FRIEND at checkout.

FREE Shipping on orders over $49

SIGN OF THE TIMES

2011-02-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

Like to shop? Consignment stores offer high quality used items at bargain prices. If you're looking to unload some items, consignment shops can be like having a garage sale without the hassle.

Talk about a 'win-win' proposition for both you and the environment.

Need to find a consignment shop? Click HERE to find one near you.

GREEN GADGETS FOR YOUR HOME

2011-02-18T12:09:00.000-08:00

Article courtesy of RecycleBank - posted by Jessica Harlan

If you're a gadget geek or a handyman (or woman) around the house, conserving resources like electricity, water, and heat can be fun, thanks to some cool tools that help you save. From high-tech to low-tech, these products will make your home more energy- and resource-efficient — or in some cases, tell you how to make your home more energy-efficient — and in turn, will help you save on your utility bills, too.

Electricity
Cut down on your electricity usage with these tools. Some tools tell you what you're using, and some are simply smart changes or additions to your home.

Power Monitor: Calculate electricity consumption on household appliances and find out which of your plug-ins are energy vampires. Some models allow you to program in your utility rate so you can calculate energy bills, or have timers to automatically turn off appliances.
Smart Power Strip: A smart power strip will automatically shut down your peripherals when you shut down your computer to avoid unnecessary energy usage, and also function as surge protectors. Besides computers, they can be used to turn on and off multiple related electronics in a room, such as a home theatre system, or lights, power tools, and dust collectors in a home workshop.

Portable Solar Charger: Harness the (free) energy of the sun to charge your mobile phone, mp3 player, and other portable electronics. Many solar chargers work with a wide range of devices, hold their charge for months or even years, and can also be charged with an electrical outlet or a USB port.

Water
Yes, you could take shorter showers and turn the faucet off when you're brushing your teeth. But these gadgets make water saving more fun!

Water-saving Showerhead: The next generation of low-flower showerheads will detect when the water is hot enough to get into the shower, then "pause" the flow until you can get in. A family of three can save more than 7,600 gallons a year.

Dual Flush Conversion Kit: While dual flush toilets are expensive and complicated to install, a dual flush conversion kit can turn any toilet into a dual flush toilet, saving up to 68% of wasted water. Once installed, the handle allows you to choose to flush with less water for liquid waste — much more tasteful than "letting it mellow".

Collapsible Rain Barrel: A space-saving rain barrel lets you collect water from gutters or other runoff, then stores compactly when not in use.

Heat
There are more creative ways of conserving heat in the wintertime than turning down the thermostat and putting on a sweater.

Adjustable Thermostat: The smartest new themostats are easier and more versatile to program, have portable sensors to check the temperature throughout the house, and can even be controlled via a smartphone app.

Thermal Heat Detector: Find out just how drafty your house is with a handheld tool with which you can scan windows, doors, fireplaces, vents, and other areas where heat may be escaping or cold may be entering.

Door Draft Guards: Once you've found all those drafts with your high-tech heat detector, use a low-tech, but clever way to plug them up — a double door draft guard fits under the base of your door and plugs it on both sides without having to constantly move it when you want to open the door.

In addition to the items the author of this article sites, you can also find some GREAT items for conservation at Let's Go Green.biz. A couple of my favorite items are:

Eco-friendly Home Water Sampler Kit
This kit has everything you need to make one bathroom more water efficient, including:

Shower Coach
Toilet Tank Bank
Earth Massage Shower head
Water-saving Faucet Aerator

Check out some of the other earth friendly items they carry while you're there!

THE DISHWASHER vs. WASHING DISHES BY HAND

2011-02-18T11:53:00.000-08:00

Article courtesy of RecycleBank - posted by Laura Ingram

I've long ago done away with paper plates in an effort to be more earth friendly, but I've always remained curious as to which was better when it came to washing of dishes - by hand or the dishwasher? I recently came across this article, courtesy of RecycleBank, which discusses this very issue. I would add that before running the dishwasher consider making sure it is as full as possible, that you set it on 'air dry' (if you have that option) and that you make sure to use the proper setting for the type of load you have. If you have just a few dishes - you might consider the "Asian" technique that the article author suggests. I think it all warrants some trial and error to see what works for each scenario you have in your household.

"Last year, I addressed a reader question on my blog about whether it was more eco-friendly to use paper plates rather than run the dishwasher-the answer was to go with the dishwasher, which surprised many people. In response to that, another reader wrote with a related question. I'm sure it's a quandary all of us green and frugal folks have considered at one time or another:

Is it more green to use a dishwasher or to wash by hand? I don't own a dishwasher, and I wash "Asian" style with a small bowl of hot soapy water to dip the washcloth in, scrub the item, then a quick hot rinse from the tap, then onto the drying rack. My husband has always argued that a dishwasher would be more efficient with the water, but I don't see how it could be. What do you think?

The next time that you wash dishes by hand, here's an experiment I'd like you to try. Stop up the sink over which you hot rinse the dishes, and then at the end of the wash cycle, measure how much water is in there. I'll bet it's more than you thought you were using, because when it runs down the drain, you don't see it. How many gallons did you end up with?

I'm suggesting this experiment because, unbelievably, newer, efficient dishwashers use as little as five gallons of water for the entire dishwasher load. On the other hand, says the American Water Works Association, when you wash dishes by hand, the average person uses 20 gallons of water. Now maybe this figure comes from those that leave the tap on as they're washing and aren't conservative with water the way you are. But I'll bet that it would be a challenge for you to hand wash an entire day's worth of dishes using five gallons only-for the dipping, washing and rinsing.

Considering that you don't own a dishwasher, you don't have one as your back-up option, and I would suggest you continue to wash your dishes in the water-saving manner you've been using. But in the future, you may have to question whether getting a dishwasher does make sense as a water- and time-saver."

CULTURE CLUB

2011-02-18T11:25:00.000-08:00

My husband and daughter LOVE yogurt! But in an effort to continue my quest towards 'zero' waste - here is something to consider.

Instead of piling your shopping card with dozens of single-serving size yogurt cups (or the multi-packs that contain them) stick to the 32 oz. tubs and dole out single servings into reusable containers. The single serve containers are usually made of #5 plastic, which is rejected by almost all community recycling programs.

Small condiment jars or baby food jars work well as re-usable containers and make for the perfect single serving size.

If you're industrious - better still, make your own yogurt!! It's so easy (so they tell me - I haven't done it yet) and requires no specialized equipment or ingredients. Recipes abound on the Internet but here is a "How To" link that also has a printable .pdf tutorial which you can print (use recycled paper **wink**) or save to your PC/laptop or portable drive.

PAPER TOWELS OR NO PAPER TOWELS

2011-02-05T10:52:00.000-08:00

Try as I might I just can't seem to ween myself from paper towels. I've cut back on how I use them A LOT but it's been hard finding a good substitute for certain things.

I've been thinking hard about this. I buy recycled towels and I use them sparingly. Isn't that pretty good? I mean, really - they are bio degradable and come from recycled/re-purposed sources. On the occasion I can't get recycled towels is it really THAT bad to buy the regular towels? They come from a renewable resource (trees) after all. What is more renewable than trees, for heaven sake?

I'm really stuck on this one.

I don't use the towels to dry my hands with. I don't use them to wipe down the counters. I DO use them for grease clean up (i.e. bacon, butter, shortening) and for things like wax, the occasional pet "accident" (of the solid kind - I use rags if it's a liquid 'accident'). Having a big pile of rags and microfiber cloths sitting on my counter just doesn't seem practical.

Then there is the extra cleaning that goes into managing those rags and cloths. Since I would be using those for said actions above, I would not be dropping those items into the laundry with my regular clothes and linens. Not a chance. So do I throw them away? Seems like a catch 22 to me!

I'm totally open to suggestions on this one! Anyone, anyone??

WINTER BLUES DISOLVING

2011-02-04T15:19:00.000-08:00

If you're like me, being cooped up all winter has taken it's toll on my creative being. Now that the weather is getting warmer, I've been trying to resist the urge to begin a home makeover project.

If cleaning out closets, de-cluttering and general sprucing up - just isn't cutting it...be sure to think carefully about splurging on new furniture or accessories. Be sure to shop locally or online for antiques or pre-owned items in whatever style that suits you. Remember that springtime yard/garage sales will be popping up everywhere.

Don't forget to check Craigslist, FreeCycle and other classified sources for buying, bartering or bequeathing!

Bring on the sunshine!!

GOOD NEWS!

2011-02-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Did you know that the city of San Francisco has required residents and businesses to not only recycle but also compost? Since 2009 the city has provided color-coded bins and does the composting for their residents!

500 tons of compostables per day have been diverted from landfills. Plastic bags were banned in 2007 and the city is working to zero waste by 2020.

To help start a community composting program where you live, contact your local recycling coordinator or department of sanitation.

LIST LOVER'S UNITE!

2011-01-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

Settle in - this is going to be a long one!

Re-nest.com just published a posting for list-lovers and "TeuxDeux" list creators like me! LOVE this! I have been working on developing "systems" over the last few months and one of my hopes was to stream line essential household functions further by the end of the first quarter this year.

Practice makes perfect. Less is more. We've all heard this time and time again. But truthfully, it couldn't be more true - truly! I love efficiency and 'a space for everything and everything in it's place' - but I also want warm and fuzzy. I think a lot of people equate efficiency and organization with a cold and crisp atmosphere. You know, institution look and feel. It comes down to balance - once again.

My mom had a fabulous cleaning schedule that she's used for years - and has fine-tuned it over time. I asked her for it last summer and have been wanting to put it into practice and tweek it for my own self/home. I'm still having trouble getting myself out of the "multi-tasking mom" habits from years past when I had three kids, pets and commuted to work every day. Now these once necessary routines bug me to no end. They make me feel chaotic and unfocused. I want just the opposite.

I can't help it - there is just something calming and fulfilling about keeping a list. That in your face collage of all the activity going on in your head. Blank books and planners have been my fetish. Books on time management, organization and the like filled my book cases over the years - I'm drawn to them like bees to honey. Why? Unknown still. I've been working the last month on using my "smart phone" to calendar appointments, set alerts, keep my "lists" and maintain contacts. So far so good.

Simpler really is better. Simpler is 'green'. Less really is more.

Re-nest.com has taken the following lists/schedules directly from Apartment Therapy's book, The Eight-Step Home Cure, by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan. There is no down loadable version of these, so you may want to copy and paste it into a separate document for easy one-stop access. Items in red are my additions.
Home Maintenance Schedule
Daily:
Morning

Make Bed.
Shower and clean it/wipe it down
Swish the toilet
Pick up all dirty clothes and towels

Before Bed-

Clear sink and counter of all dishes
Put clothes away - set out clothes for next day
Check calendar for next day

Sort mail:

recycle junk or contact to remove from list
enter bills for payment and add to calendar with alerts
respond to all invitations and set out for mail next day

Check on-line banking transactions/statements
Clear answering machine, voice mail messages and text messages
Clear emails and respond where applicable
Clean all kitchen surfaces.
Take out garbage and recycling.
Remove lint from dryer with every load

Weekly:
Monday: Cull through old magazines-recycle/donate
Tuesday: Sweep front porch/walkway
Wednesday: Inventory/straighten pantry & fridge, make menus & grocery list
Thursday: Grocery shop (take list and coupons), Errands (library returns, gifts)
Friday: Clean/wash car
Clear all surfaces (put odds and ends away).
Wash clothing, take in dry cleaning.
Take recycling and garbage out for pick up.
Change sheets.
Water plants.
Clean bathroom and kitchen.
Quick-vacuum all floors.
Monthly:
Vacuum, sweep, or mop all floors-moving furniture and the like
Flip mattresses.
Change/Clean A/C-heating unit filters
Clear out refrigerator.
Every Three Months:
Wash windows.
De-clutter refrigerator, front door, bulletin board, etc.
Change oil in vehicles
Every Six Months:
Spring cleaning (April or May)
Fall Cleaning (October)
Check smoke detector batteries

* Perform deep treatment on your home: clean and de-clutter, change seasonal clothing, clean out drawers, closets, under-sink storage, purge clothing, extra CDs, DVDs, books, and furniture.

Additional Related Checklists:

Green Home Checklist[PDF]: an extensive list that outlines a 2-year plan to green your home, top to bottom, addressing everything from indoor air, to light and heat, to materials and methods.
Greening Your Home Indoors [PDF] and Greening Your Home Outdoors [PDF]: these planners from Homemakers.com offer accessible ideas for reducing energy costs and making your home healthier, one step at a time.
Small Space Checklist: Toolbox Basics
5 Low-Cost Green Upgrades You Haven't Thought Of
The 10 Best Ways to Green Your Apartment Rental
Green Home Renovations: The Most Helpful Resources
How To Make an Inventory of Your Home and Use It To De-clutter
6 Things To Do Everyday from Martha Stewart [PDF]
Checklist: Basic Cleaning Supplies for Small Spaces
How To Clean Your House in 20 Minutes a Day for 30 Days

REFLECTION

2011-01-25T11:03:00.000-08:00

"The work of conservation is inspired by wonder, gratitude, reason, and love...love for wild and settled places, for animals and plants, for people living now and those yet to come, for the creations of human hands and minds." ~Scott Russell Sanders

NOT SO STICKY ALTERNATIVE

2011-01-24T13:25:00.000-08:00

Ok, as I move through the first month of the new year, I've been challenging myself every day to take a hard long look at what I eat, where I get it, the packaging it's in, how I store it...blah, blah, blah. I also have been trying to use what I have "stored" away instead of buying more 'stuff' and am looking at each thing I use with 'wasteful' questioning eyes.

Today's find: Lint rollers. My husband is obsessed with them. I, on the other hand, get so annoyed with them. The the sticky sheets never peel away correctly and once you remove the so called magnetic 'cover' from them, it never goes back on right - leaving that new fresh sheet on the roller exposed to whatever may stick to it - even things you don't want it to stick to.

I use to keep him stocked with a plethora of rollers for his use - however, since I've been trying to get away from 'over consumerism' et al, I've let him use up the stock on hand. Today I presented him with a 'green alternative' hoping it wouldn't meet with too much rejection.

Here are some 'alternatives' to lint rollers which are very useful but so incredibly wasteful:
1. The Washcloth: Yep, you got it - the washcloth! Who knew? This is my first alternative choice because well it doesn't cost anything to "switch" because undoubtedly you have one (or two or three) in your home already.
To use: Simply wet the washcloth lightly being sure to wring out any excess water and proceed to wipe clothes, furniture or whatever else needs a little lint free maintenance. This works well for me as I usually use a lint roller as I'm ironing my garments so the dampness goes away with ironing.

2. The "Magik Lint Brush": I've had this item before and I'm not sure what happened to it; my guess it grew lonely next to the stack of lint rollers and eventually made it to the donation pile.

Alas, I may get another one to present to my husband as a 'peace offering' in lieu of his beloved lint rollers. If you don't want to hassle with the wet wash cloth, then this option may be for you. This brush doesn't require any of the sticky papers and can be used over and over again. It will need to be replaced about every three months. This is my second favorite option as it is still cost effective and does the job with less waste. You'll save about $90 a year over the use of lint rollers. These brushes are available from a number of sources on the Internet and in department stores.

3. The Pet Hair Sponge:
Pet owner like me? Well you know full well that pet hair can be an issue depending on the type of pet you have. Grooming your pet helps to cut down on the hair, but alas, not all of it. Your vacuum cleaner can assist but is often cumbersome and uses electricity. This pet hair sponge which is available at most pet supply stores is reasonably priced and does a great job if the standard wet washcloth approach doesn't work for you.

If you've got other alternatives please let's hear from you!

WILL WORK FOR GOOD

2011-01-24T08:51:00.000-08:00

If one of your New Year's resolutions was to make a career change, why not get paid to do good by working for a cause you believe in?

Start looking at your favorite organizations or try HERE. Other choices might be www.idealist.org and www.craigslist.org.

CARBON PAWPRINTS

2011-01-20T14:30:00.001-08:00

We have a guest blogger today, Xoe (pronounced Zoey) who wanted to bring up the subject of the impact that our four-legged friends have on the environment.

Xoe is a two-year old rat terrior/miniature pincher/chihuahua mix and enjoys spending time with her owner (me) and playing with her brother.

Every year more than 10 million tons of pet "do-do" is sent to landfills, where it takes decades to decompose. Really? I had no idea, Xoe! Consider flushing dog doodie instead using flush-able bags (www.flushdoggy.com) or use degradable bags like BioBag when throwing it in the trash.

According to Xoe, there is a great earth-friendly, people and pet safe way to dispose of 'kitty roca' also. Xoe knows how difficult it is to stay away from the kitty box but with The World's Best Cat Litter - the fear of accidentally (of course - it's always an "ACCIDENT") eating anything harmful.

The World's Best Cat Litter website has several videos and information about their product which is made from corn. It's completely flush-able and septic safe.

For most people a pet is a part of the family, and you want to give us the very best of everything. I know my owner does for me! Be a great "green" pet owner by making smart decisions that will have a positive impact on the environment and your pet.

I'm going to give you a five (5) ideas or suggestions and I won't make you 'beg' for the information, either. I may ask you to "shake" on it afterwords - no, not really - besides, then I'd have to offer you a 'treat' and well, frankly - they are all gone - I ate 'em all while writing this blog entry. Our secret tho', ok? I kinda blamed it on my brother when my owner found the box empty.

1. As we discussed above, Pick Up The Poo! Part of being a green pet owner involves the ever so enjoyable task of disposing of our waste. Be sure to provide my feline friends with a litter box and litter that is not made of clay, which is strip mined harmfully from the earth. I know we covered this above, but most litter also includes chemicals which are harmful to pets. Ok, now you need to consider the following...

2. Compost the Poo! I know, I sound like a broken record, but most of your pets waste ends up in plastic bags in landfills. If you're going to do this, you might as well erect a 'poo-fectly' permanent statue to commemorate our existence! Be sure not to use the compost in your vegetable garden. Germs like E. Coli can be passed on to your food.

3. Buy Quality, Organic Food. Alot of the ingredients found in cheap pet food come from diseased beef which would not be fit human consumption. Dog is man's best friend, right? Good food comes from organic sources and doesn't include soy, wheat, corn, or animal by-products.

4. Buy Eco-Friendly Pet Products. Avoid with all your might animal toys made in China. These plastics are cheap and contain chemicals. Instead look for toys made with from hemp or organic products like cotton. Remember, rawhide is very hard on most digestive tracks and most veterinarians will tell you they don't recommend it. Instead go for "bully sticks" or 'real bones' from the supermarket which are completely digestible.

5. Use Natural Cleaning Products. I hate baths! My owner uses plant based shampoo on me that she gets at the pet store. Tea tree oil stinks, but it keeps the fleas off me. Ok, can you keep a secret? Accidents (not the ones I talked about earlier) happen. My mom uses vinegar and soda with water to clean it up. No chemical smell or residue and the stain will come right up! My owner said to mention that vinegar and baking soda cost a lot less money also...whatever that is?

Well, I've had fun sharing with you how you can be a "green owner". I'd love to hear any feedback you may have and read about your 'green" pet owner ideas.

GREEN VISION

2011-01-17T10:54:00.001-08:00

Check out my post on my other blog "My Favorite "F" Word" and learn more about an American resurgence of thrift on this day of celebration for the civil rights movement leader Martin Luther King and in remembrance of the "apostle of thrift", Benjamin Franklin.

Read more HERE

BUY IT OR DIY-IT?

2011-01-16T11:15:00.000-08:00

I'm all for 'do-it-yourself' projects - it speaks to the creative side of my being - plus I totally enjoy the concept of 'up-cycling'/re-purposing things. I can remember when I was younger spending lots of time looking at old houses and seeing the "potential" in them - wanting to fix 'em up; same with old cars.

Well, as an adult - before and after kids, I've just never had the monetary luxury to do either of those things but have found smaller ways to use my creative talents.

I really enjoyed this article I received today from Country Living Magazine. I thought it warranted sharing.

CLICK HERE to check it out for yourself.
Here's my feedback on the ideas:
1. Floral magnets: DEFINITELY D.I.Y. = a really cool idea and totally cost effective and doable.
2. Tote Bag: While these are cute - There are so many available for less than $1 or FREE that taking time to make yet another bag - not so much for me, anyway.
3. Storybook Clock: O.M.G. - this project is totally cute! I LOVE it! In fact, during my last thrift store shopping spree in Oregon, I picked up some old children's books - one of them being my childhood favorite, The Owl and The Pussy Cat, which was in SUPERB condition. Depending on the cost of the clock movement - this is certainly a good project!
4. Hurricane Candle: I don't see myself making this - or buying for that matter. Just a personal preference thing, I guess.
5. Table Runner: DEFINITELY D.I.Y.: What a cute project. Being a collector of old handkerchiefs, this was a real winning idea for me! I'd not seen this before. Love it! Quilt scraps work, too!
6. Vase: Vases are a dime a dozen - you can pick these up for next to nothing at Thrift stores, yard sales. Although, cute - I personally would not spend my time gluing a bunch of pencils to a container to make a vase. If I had a surplus of pencils - I'd probably donate them to an elementary school or a non-profit organization dedicated to children.
7. Message Board: Yeah, that works for me. Depending on my situation. You can generally find boards at Thrift store for a fraction of regular retail and frames as well - however, when I factor in my time - would I make one instead of buying? I dunno - depends.
8. Display Shelves: I would probably NOT do this project - although cute, it doesn't interest me.
9. Bookcase: Ditto #8 10. Headboard: Ditto #8

There are some great ideas in the "other craft projects" sections. I particularly like the flower projects.

Well, back to the point, I guess - before you BUY something - think about if you can DIY it instead.

DIY Vase (in photo above)-courtesy of Country Living Magazine
Floral foam and glass marbles aren't the only ways to hold flowers aloft. Instead, a bunch of vintage milk bottles gives this arrangement—featured in Decorating with Flowers—its structure. Simply line up nine same-size vessels in three rows of three. Then wrap gardener's twine around the grouping twice and tie the ends. Finish the blooming display by placing two to three stems in each container.
My Comments (of course I have to add one...): Don't have vintage milk bottles? Try glass bottles from beverage drinks like Lipton Tea, Sobe, Izzie - remove the labels and whalah!

GREEN GOSPEL?

2011-01-15T17:50:00.000-08:00

Practice what you preach. The ol' "knowing and doing are not always the same thing" adage.

Save time and spread the 'green gospel' by picking ONE green item per year and get it for everybody on your birthday gift giving list.

Some examples are a stainless-steel water bottle, a personalized coffee mug or hand crafted mug from a local artist/potter, cloth napkins or a re-usable grocery tote,

When it's your turn to be the 'birthday boy/girl', consider asking for a donation in your name to an environmental charity in lieu of gifts.

SEAFOOD??

2011-01-14T12:14:00.000-08:00

This past holiday season my husband and I were fortunate enough to receive a couple of cases of fresh canned albacore from my dad who is a commercial fisherman. We feasted on grilled Halibut during the holiday week and covet fresh fish.

So, for all you seafood lovers, you'll wanna snap up the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch pocket guides.

With six (6) regional guides (including one for Hawaii), a national guide, and a sushi guide, Seafood Watch is your best source for current information on ocean-friendly fish - and species to avoid - wherever you're dining. Download guides or order printed copies HERE .

iPhone users: You can find "Seafood Watch" in the app store.

THAT WAS THEN...AND NOW??

2011-01-13T11:34:00.000-08:00

I was in my 'go to first' store looking for fresh green beans (not canned or frozen) as I knew the price was excellent and I wanted to use the plethora of canning jars I just acquired from my dad who was cleaning out his barn.

I didn't find beans, but I found blackberries! Jam, I thought. Perfect. It had been a rotten day due to one happen-stance of another beyond my control, but I was determined to be grateful and was thinking to myself as I stood in the ridiculously LONG checkout line..."At least the sun is shining today!"

I was flanked on each of side of me by persons holding one item and another with a handful of items. Inside I'm thinking, "Great, they are going to try to squeeze in front of me..." and I was getting annoyed at the thought of having to stand here longer. Then it hit me. I continued my internal conversation with myself and said "Hmm, perhaps your bad day is a result of not putting out enough 'good energy' into the world so nothing is coming back to you". Sometimes I hate that little itchy voice from within. Sooooo, I lean to my left and tell the guy whose holding "ONE" item - "Sir, why don't you go ahead, you only have one item" and so he did with a nod. We moved forward and the woman to my right was antsy as can be so I said "Go ahead - jump up there" and she said "oh no, that's ok, I only have these...you were first" - I retorted with "yes, but you're packing yours in your hands and I've got this cart so it's no problem. She moved in line in front of me and then commented on the pile of berries in my cart and commented on what a GREAT deal they were. I replied, "Indeed. I'm going to make jam with them". She commented, "Ya know, people really need to get back to doing things the 'old way'...that's so cool".

Sooo, you may be thinking - how does any of this relate to this blog?

Well, when I got home I began surfing the web in search of vintage canning jars - just out of curiosity. I had a couple blue jars with tin lids and was questioning the value et al. I came across the neatest website by an artist that who uses vintage wartime advertisements as his inspiration.

"It was 1944 (or present day, the shoe still fits!)--a war raged all over the world. It seemed every American knew someone who was in the military, and it was not certain that we would win. The enemies were tough, fanatical, and prepared for a long fight. Americans at home wanted to do something to help our boys "over there".

Winning a war is often about tactics and courage, but its just as often about the support lines that supply food, ammunition, fuel. Its said that for every front line G.I. in World War II, there were about 5 service people working in support roles. They were fighting just as hard by moving supplies, connecting calls, or handling logistics.

But in War Era America, you didn't have to be in the service to play a supporting role. It was called the "Homefront" and posters from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture and the U.S. War Department would tell the people on the home-front to "Grow More in '44", "Can all you Can" (as in vegetables in mason jars), or ask "Are you doing all can to help salvage?" These overtures felt like the right thing to do, and they gave the folks at home a clear, necessary task to participate in the effort."

WOW! does that have any re-sounding overtures of current times? This is a cool site. Check out the site www.victorygardenoftomorrow.com for a series of "propaganda" posters for organic farming and other facets of green, clean, sustainable living, in the roll-up-your sleeves style of vintage wartime advertisements.

DID YOU KNOW?

2011-01-13T11:19:00.000-08:00

We American's throw out more than 400 million electronic items every year!!

Almost 88% of that wast is incinerated or added to landfills.

PLEASE, please, please - consider passing along your WORKING electronic devices to someone else via Freecycle.org or Craigslist.org.

If your electronic devices have gone "kaput", find a reputable e-waste recycler in your area HERE.

If you follow my other blog, My Favorite F Word, you will have heard me talk about rewards programs like SwagBucks. Here's a place where you can get 2-for-1....huh? You can help dispose of your e-waste AND get something for it in return - SwagBucks!

REPURPOSED HOLIDAY CARDS

2011-01-11T11:52:00.001-08:00

I've using this same concept for years now with junk mail - but as I've begun putting the kibosh on junk mail before it get to my mail box, my resource for reusable tag material is growing slim.

Never fear - re-purposed holiday cards are here!!

GO H ER E for instructions on how-to re-purpose your holiday cards into gift tags!

BTW - this is a GREAT site to bookmark - Jennie Lyon has great input on DIY projects.

WRAPPING UP CHRISTMAS

2011-01-11T11:28:00.000-08:00

If you had a fresh-cut Christmas tree or other living holiday decorations this year, don't forget to compost or recycle.

My mom and her husband take their tree to their back yard area and lean it up next to an old picnic table they have that they use to feed the birds. The tree allows for birds to perch and sing while it enables my mom to hang additional food sources for them on it until Summer when it's completely dead and be used for wood burning.

If you don't have a compost or your area does not have green waste recycling you can go HERE and find a drop-off site near you for your living holiday decorations.

Be sure to put reusable decorations away neatly so you can find them easily next holiday season and you won't be tempted to go out and by new ones.

Wrapping strings of lights is always a challenge each year - using cores from wrapping paper rolls or paper-towel tubes or even a 2" dowel, rod or old broom handle works nicely to wrap the strings of lights around to keep them tangle free.

Here are a few links to some great "How To's" for storing Christmas Lights:

1. How to wrap Christmas lights neatly so they won't tangle
2. How to Store your Chirstmas Lights Without Tangles

3. How to Put Away Christmas Lights Without Tangling Them

DRESS UP YOUR DRINK

2011-01-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

Tired of your existing reusable metal water bottle? Wanna new one but can't justify it as there isn't really anything wrong with your current one?

Well, make your existing reusable metal water bottle more fun by personalizing it with wraps that can hold up to washing, wear and tear.

Go HERE to learn more how you take can that drag bottle to a 'wow' bottle!

WILD THING!

2011-01-11T09:32:00.000-08:00

I was excited to finally get my ceramic egg holder for my refrigerator. Thanks to my awesome sister and her family who gave me a gift certificate to Amazon.com for my birthday I was able to pick it and a couple of other items from my "Wish List". As I opened the box and put my eggs in place I thought about the plastic container I just tossed in the recycle bin that my brown organic eggs came in. I started to think about where I could find some local brown organic eggs that I could just go pick up and take my own re-usable container?

Yeah, I've taken the first step and bought free range, organic eggs - but I didn't check where they came from and then it there is the plastic container they came in. True, we are fortunate to have a municipal recycle program that I can use, but I'm not sure it's necessary.

I found a GREAT resource for finding local purveyors of eggs, grass-fed meat, and dairy. If you are looking to steer clear of factory farmed foods go HERE and find alternatives in all fifty states.

CONSUME LESS: REUSE, REPURPOSE, RECYCLE

2011-01-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

As the New Year rolls on I've been diligently reviewing each and every consumable product I touch and am asking myself "Is there a more Eco-friendly alternative for what I'm using? Do I REALLY "need" this?"

Today in the kitchen as I made my coffee - bingo! Coffee filters!! Right now I'm using white paper filters every day! I am going to get a re-usable coffee filter instead. I've been tossing my coffee grounds (I know, I know - shame on me!) but will be composting those now.

At Christmas I was given two candles by Glade. They were in an odd shaped glass holder and were pre-filled with wax and wick. The scent and color were great - but they did not burn well leaving a lot of wax behind. I've started a "wax jar" for all old unused wax and will add to it as I deplete my candles to re-use for emergency candles that I will make myself. I washed the jars out instead of tossing them and recycled the little metal brad at the base that the wick is held in.

I brought home SEVERAL canning jars my father was getting rid of! Whoa! I took them in a heart beat. Not only will they be used for canning this Spring, but I use them to store all kinds of things: buttons, bobbins, etc. The rings and lids were all rusted beyond use so those were tossed in the recycle bin.

Not bad for my first hour awake today!

RE-PURPOSE PROJECT

2011-01-09T20:48:00.000-08:00

Old calendars - what to do with them? How 'bout re-purposing them for envelopes?

That's what I did. I took an old envelope and steamed open all the edges to use as a template.

Then I took the pages from last year's calendar and traced the template and cut each one out.

I folded the edges appropriately and glued the side flaps to secure the envelope. Presto!

I cut out the 'preview' page pictures from the back of the calendar (they were tiny) and ran them through my sticker maker to make stickers to close my envelopes shut with!

COUNTING DOWN TO ZERO WASTE

2010-12-29T10:28:00.000-08:00

I'm not perfect yet (probably never will be) but I'm continually improving. This holiday season has been the best yet in years! I've been working hard to cut back on my old buying habits and make use of purposeful gifts etc.

This year I spent less, made use of items I already had for wrapping and took advantage of thrift shops, gift certificates, mail order and making of consumable items for gifts.

I worked hard to make each gift meaningful and efficient not only in purpose but in presentation. My goal this year is to buy less and do more. Waste less in every aspect. Including my time. Pilfer through the processes of my life and get rid of those pointless activities and make room for the things that really matter to me. Streamline, efficiency and less 'stuff'. I want to create calm and contentment in my home and I want to fully enjoy the things life has to offer.

Zero waste. Can you imagine? My goal. It must remain in the forefront of my mind. It will be my focus. From my hobbies to my 'have to's'.

I believe we are to be "good stewards of our time, money and talents" and this concept encompasses many things.

This year I will work on:
1. Reducing unwanted junk mail
2. Reliance on paper towels and napkins and other paper products
3. Start a compost
4. Begin focusing on food and food items that have zero or next to no packaging.
5. Buying local products
6. Buying bulk items and using reusable containers (i.e. glass seal-able jars, stainless steel bottles, glass bottles)
7. Making my own cleaning products and personal hygiene items
8. Reducing at least 50% of my clothing items
9. Reducing at least 50% of the household items in my home
10. Regaining the real estate in my garage and storage shed
11. Grow my own food
12. Complete the organization of family heirlooms, memorabilia et al
13. Complete the organization and storage of all media (photos, music, movies)

This year my "after holiday shopping" was done in my little home town in Coquille, Oregon where I wanted to contribute to their struggling economy and I bought items in local thrift stores - each thing slated for a particular purpose (quilting, gifts, storage, etc) I got some absolutely neat relics and treasures that will be enjoyed by myself and others. I didn't spend a dime in one commercial 'box store' or chain business. I feel great about that!

WRAPPING PAPER ET AL

2010-12-12T13:50:00.000-08:00

This year, I didn't buy any wrapping paper for Christmas. My goal for many months now has been to use less paper and try to make the wrapping for my gifts:

1) part of the gift
2) reusable
3) made from recycled or re-purposed items

I've been slowly using up the stash of paper, tags and bows I've had now for years - why buy more? Use what you have! That's why you have it!!

If you do buy wrapping paper, check your thrift stores first - truth!! If nothing else, make sure it's 100% recycled.

Ribbon? Well, when I get something - I recycle ever piece of it I can to re-use. I keep it all nicely organized in containers. This year I got a great buy and a load of ribbon from my local Goodwill. Not only did I contribute to worthy cause, I even saved myself nearly 9% sales tax!! Goodwill is a non-profit - no tax!!

Here's an example of one of my gift wrapping ideas this year:

I have a friend who loves strawberries and is a Macy's fan (yes, big box store - I know) so I found this great vintage ceramic (looks hand made because of the intricacy and dainty flaws) strawberry box at a thrift shop and I filled it with recycled/re-purposed 'grass' from a previous gift to nestle the gift card in that I purchased for her online and through a 'points for me' site. Then I secured it using "glue dots" and used re-purposed red velvet ribbon salvaged from a gift I'd received, lord knows when. I had a sweet little pre-done red velvet bow from another item I'd received sometime down the line - and I paired that with home made 'flowers' that I made from junk mail, a flower shaped paper punch and a tiny brad. Whalah!

NEW HABITS!

2010-12-12T13:46:00.001-08:00

Human behavior - interesting thing that is it - is largely in part due to habits!

As I begin my annual think and regroup mental session in preparation for the New Year one of the interesting facts I learned is that if you make it a habit to clean out your dryer's link filter before EVERY load, you can save up to $40 per year!

Well, we'll see! I'll let you know! Worth a try! I like to save money!!

PERSONAL BLACK FRIDAY BOYCOTT

2010-12-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

This year I opted to BUY NOTHING on Black Friday! I didn't go out - just really wasn't anything I felt I had to have - not from the stores, anyway.

For a humorous twist on our nation's obsession with consumerism (aka shopping) check out The Church of Stop Shopping at www.revbilly.com

Balance! It's all about balance in life! Been there, done that! :)

AIR FLIGHT FACTOID

2010-12-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

Gotta Go??

Here's a dismaying factoid: One flush at 30,000 feet uses about a quarter of a gallon of fuel!

As if there weren't enough reasons to avoid flying during the holiday! And, using the airplane bathroom ta boot!

As for me - I'll hold it 'til I get there!

TUNE OUT

2010-12-12T13:35:00.001-08:00

As we get closer and closer to Christmas, make a conscious effort to avoid mainstream advertising-supported media. Chances are you'll end up wanting less and spending less!

This goes doubly for children!!

DID YOU KNOW ??

The cost of advertising directed at children is estimated at more than $15 billion annually, and the average American child today is exposed to an estimated 40,000 television commercials a year! That's more than 100 per day!

Learn more here at: www.commercialexploitation.org

PERFECT POP

2010-10-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

We're trying to be mindful of the packaging involved when we make choices of what we purchase.

For movie-night popcorn, skip the over packaged microwave kind and purchase some organic corn from the bulk section of your grocery store. Store the popcorn in a pretty glass jar (or regular inexpensive canning jar like me that was picked up at a thrift store for less than a quarter) and pop your popcorn on the stove with a little organic olive oil and some sea salt!

Additional variations include: grated Parmesan cheese, chili powder or lime juice - if you want a hint of sweet drizzle a little honey and toss.

OCTOBER ALREADY!

2010-10-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

October is a good month to do some advance garden planning! You already know you should be planting native and conserving water, but why not take it to the next level by using your space to grow some of your own food?

If you're a tad light on land, like I am, consider containers or a community garden near you.

There is a ton of information on the Internet regarding container gardening. Need containers?
Again many options. Here are a few to prompt your thinking:

1) Got a stack of old buckets lying around?? Create drainage holes in the bottom and/or add an inch or two of gravel or rockery and you're all set.
2) Get on Freecycle and do a WANTED post and request pots/buckets/tubs that you can use.
3) Find the nearest thrift store and check for planter boxes, tubs, buckets, pots, etc. You'll be doing your part to re-purpose items.

Think outside the box for planting: old bathtub, wash tubs, sinks, wheelbarrows, wine barrels, etc. all make lovely planters - arrange in a corner of your back yard and turn your trash to valuable real estate for planting.

Got an old wooden or wire chair? Put a tub or pot where the seat once was and the back and legs become great 'creeping' vine rails.

To locate a community garden in your area you can go HERE

RESEARCH, REVIEW, RECYCLE

2010-09-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

Visit http://earth911.com for a great recycling search tool.

Just type in what you're looking to recycle i.e. batteries, paint, motor oil, phone books, carpet, even medication - and your zip code!

That's all it takes!

Don't forget to book mark the site for future reference!

ALL ABOARD THE NON-CONSUMPTION TRAIN!

2010-09-11T09:51:00.001-07:00

What a busy summer!

As I worked on another share site yesterday evening I was setting up links for my favorite sites and of course I had to include my own, right?

In doing so, I realized I haven't done much in the way of writing lately and felt the need to get something down.

As I was sitting in front of the computer this morning, contemplating what I wanted to share, I began thinking about my summer and the new trends I've been trying to impose upon myself.

In the wake of this waffling economy my need for trimming expenses and stream lining systems has increased. I want to focus on what I really enjoy doing.

As I posted some time ago, I've been organizing and adjusting processes and procedures around the house and in my life. I spent yesterday clearing out the pantry! Although opening the coffers of my pantry and finding it packed with yummy items use to make my feel satisfied and blessed, now I feel overwhelmed and wasteful.

I pulled out all the items on the shelves. I lined everything up by category on the dining room table. Wow! Next I looked at shelf dates. Just a few were past their "best used by" time. The contents were tossed and the packaging recycled. Next I began looking at what was left. Just how many boxes of cake mix did I need? Did we eat a lot of cake? Not! So I continued my filtering until it was paired down to the basics. Just the basics? Yes, the basics!!

Over the course of the past few months I've found that I've been drawn to fresh food and organic local food where and when I can get it. It really isn't that hard to make good fresh food fast! A little bit of foresight and planning goes a long way in making your week go smoothly when it comes to cooking good food.

Out went the bottles of pre-made this and that and my pantry has so much room now. Oooh the feeling of freedom it gives! It's not empty, mind you, but it's organized, easy to get to things and refreshing to open up. Next I moved more things into my kitchen so they are an arms length away. Easy to get to and use. Feels soo good.

I've been doing this process for months now in other areas of my home - getting rid of excess! A couple of weekends ago it was the garage - Lord have mercy, I can see the floor now! Really! I've got real estate now! Ha! The excess was picked over by friends and the balance of the items went to Goodwill. Some went on eBay and some on Craigslist. Prior to that it was my craft room. That was the most challenging space, I think. Scrapbooking supplies, crafting supplies, fabric, yarn - you name it! But....just how much of that 'stuff' can one person possibly have? (ok, well some of you don't answer that - hahahaha). I did some hard soul searching on that one and made some really ruthless decisions. Once I was able get my arms wrapped around the concept that I didn't "need" all this stuff just to prove I could make beautiful scrapbooks or create beautiful greeting cards or whatever heartfelt creative project I was into I was 'ok'. Next came a couple of tough questions: 1) What projects to I REALLY enjoy doing? and 2) If I let go of some of this stuff, what impact will that have on my future needs?

Question #1 was pretty easy. Question #2 was, sorta, easy. Once I was able to ask myself "Am I going to use this in the near future?" and if not, "will it (or something like it) be available to buy when I do get around to going the project?" making decisions about what to keep and not keep was fairly painless.

What a freeing experience this has been for me - and eye opening! I didn't realize how much 'stuff' I really had (and actually seems like I still do) As a society we are HUGE consumers! The packaging alone on all this "stuff" we buy is horrific! As an example just by changing our eating habits to fresh food and homemade items, our garbage and recycle bin hasn't been as full. That makes me feel good too!

I really didn't intend for this post to be so long when I began, but hey - that's what I get I guess for not posting in so long. I found this note that I thought was worthwhile and wanted to share it. I saved it some time ago on my computer and in all honesty, I have no idea where I got it from so I will apologize now to the author for not being able to give credit where credit is due.

Given the nature of this list, I can't imagine them caring about the 'credit' but that the message is getting out there instead.

13 Questions to Ask Yourself BEFORE You Buy More Stuff!

1. Is this purchase something I need? Wait 24 hours (or longer) and ask yourself again. Run it by your significant other - do they think you 'need' it?
2. Do I already own something that will serve the same purpose?

3. Can I borrow this item instead of buying new one? - I can remember days when I was younger that we 'borrowed' from our neighbors (and vice versa) all the time! Now, I'm ashamed to say - I don't even know all my neighbors - let alone feel comfortable to ask them to borrow something - what a shame that is! (Note to self: topic for another post?)

4. Can I make something that will serve the same purpose? Keep in mind that the 'making' process should not surpass time and materials cost of the actual thing you're trying to duplicate.

5. Can I buy a used one? Sports equipment, clothing, bake ware, you name it - there is someone offering a used version of it!

6. Would someone be willing to split the cost and share this with me? This is a VERY good idea! Your friends are some of your best 'like minded' options out there.

7. Can I buy or commission one made locally? Although I'm trying to be more responsible with my purchases, I REALLY like the idea of keeping my purchases local - and (thinking - do I need to apologize for this?) I like supporting independent merchants whenever possible and not 'big box' mass merchandisers. Sorry WalMart fans, but WalMart is my LAST choice unless I have no other option. In fact, I guess I need to thank WalMart - (Huh?) It has actually acted as a 'deterrent' for me at times - I dislike going into WalMart Stores so much that I have just said "Oh, I think I'll wait..." or "I think I can hold out until tomorrow (or whenever)".

8. Can I buy one that was made with environmentally responsible materials? I also have been looking at how much packaging it has - have you seen kids toys lately? It's like breaking into Fort Knox or something! Crazy time!

9. Can I buy one that serves more than one purpose?

10. Can I get something human powered instead of gas or electric? Seriously! Do you REALLY need electric scissors? Electric knives?

11. Can I compost or recycle it when I'm done with it?

12. What is the impact on the environment of the full life cycle of the item?

13. Does the manufacture or disposal of it damage the environment?

Suggestion: Print these questions out, put a copy in your purse, on the visor of your car or on your refrigerator. Memorize it - run these questions through your head over and over so they become rote!

What a great 'thought tree', eh?

I hope you don't think it's silly to carry around a list like this - in the beginning it might be, but until it becomes a habit for you - why not?

According to Consumer Reports, the average American is exposed to 247 commercial messages every day. That comes out roughly to 7,212,400 commercial messages over an 80-year lifespan. WOW! OMG! Not to mention the bombardment of ads on TV -which if you cut back on that (or DVR your favorites so you can speed through the ads) you'll cut out of a lot of your exposure right there! And try, try, try NOT to go to sleep watching TV where it plays all night long - not only is it a HUGE waste of energy to power it all night while no one is watching it - but your unconscious mind is taking in all that 'stuff' that is going on while you sleep.

Recently I had spent the night at a friend's house where others where staying as well - the TV was left on and I can still remember waking up the next day thinking about some acne medicine - I don't have acne!! Haha!

Ads are everywhere! Magazines, billboards, the Internet, newspapers, your email account on cars and vehicles, even people's clothing! What message do we get from all this advertisement??
"Here, buy these products so you can happy, so you can be healthy, so you can be popular or whatever!!"

Depending on what pushes your button (and they'll definitely push it) we end up buying. When we buy, we create demand - with that comes waste and energy consumption. Often times it also means we've contributed to the prosper of some other nation other than our own. Now mind you, I don't mind helping others -but we need to support ourselves (local city, state, country) first (Hmmm...another topic for a later post?? Hehehe).

I'll be the first to admit, I love technology - my iPhone rocks! And like all technology, it's ever evolving - always the 'latest and greatest' to be had. BUT I will say, I have really controlled my urge to jump on the "consumption train" right away - I still have the original version iPhone (which I bought reconditioned) and it serves me well. My needs are met.

Ok, so do I think that a piece of paper with these 13 Questions on it is going to convert the world? No.

I DO think, though, that it might help to change people's thought process and in doing so help clean up this whole consumption mess we've got going on.

We all need to start thinking a little different. And in order to do that, we need to start asking ourselves some hard questions.

1. Why do we feel that buying things will make us happy?
2. What is missing in our lives that we are trying to fill with mass produced items?
3. What 'need' are you really 'feeding' by buying so much stuff?

Perhaps a little reminder like this will help us start that process and put us on the path to commercial freedom.

So, write up the list and run through those questions the next time you are about to buy something - essential or non-essential, ya know? Before long, you'll have that mind set and will be one step closer to de-boarding the fast paced consumer purchasing train!

"Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much"

FIZZY WATER?

2010-08-07T10:30:00.001-07:00

After a fantastic weekend Pontoon Patio Boat trip on the lake this past weekend - complete with wet bar I got to thinking about ways to be "green" on board!

Love fizzy water, as a cocktail mixer or just on its own?

Too bad it doesn't come out of the tap! Rather than buying up disposable bottles to feed your fizzy habit, have the stuff delivered in reusable bottles from a seltzer service, or make your own with a seltzer bottle, aka "soda siphon."

Try Prairiemoon.biz

There are also several different home-carbonation systems on the market, at various price points. The intrepid can even try building their own - see www.instructables.com for a good tutorial!

SWEETER DREAMS

2010-05-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

Time to get new pillows?

Consider replacing your worn out pillows with natural latex memory foam, buckwheat hulls, or kapok-tree fibers.

Here are a couple of sources:

Buckwheat hull pillows - CLICK HERE
Natural latex pillows - CLICK HERE
Kapok-tree fiber pillows - CLICK HERE

You can search the Internet and find your own sources, too!

So what should you do with those old pillows? Consider calling your local animal shelter to see if they'll accept your old ones and give those little doggies some soft comfort for their cages. Be sure to wash your old pillows first. If your old pillows are feather, the feathers can be used to fill new pillows.

There are other options for re purposing your pillows as well - check out the Internet for other options.

BORAX

2010-05-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

Borax: Rhymes with lorax, and while it's not as gree, it's more eco-friendly than many other cleaning products.

What is Borax? It's know as sodium borate or sodium tetraborate, borax is mined in California's Mojave Desert, Chile and Tibet. It can also be be created in a lab.

When diluted with water it can be a great all-purpose cleaner. If you use it straight (no water) it can be added to laundry to soften water and make your detergent go farther.

As always, be very careful using this around children.

For more information CLICK HERE There is also a coupon available at the time of this post on this site.

DARNED IF YOU DO...

2010-05-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

We've all done it...bought the re-cycled/re-useable bags and then forgot to take them with you shopping - or had a case of last minute shopping where you weren't prepared.

So now we're in the store and we're faced with bag or no bag? I've brought this up before, if you have just a couple of items do you really need a bag? I always so 'no bag' and watch for the response of the cashier. The responses are getting more and more less shocking but I still get an occasional "Are you sure?" from a few.

If you have several items and the need for a bag is evident the age old question of "paper or plastic?" still creeps up in some instances. So do you know the lesser of the two evils? According to Earthday.net choosing a paper bag over plastic is the better choice.

Paper bags will break down much faster than the plastic bags. In some areas/stores, paper is the ONLY choice now...however, just remember this: paper bags create 70% more air pollutants and 50 times more water pollutants when manufactured than plastic bags. Paper bags require more than four times as much energy! Yikes!

My suggestion - here's what I do...
1. I carry a (actually two) re-usable bag in my purse - the kind that fold into themselves and are quite compact. They are well-used.
2. I keep in my back seat on the floor of my car a re-usable bag with several other re-usable bags inside.
3. I take advantage of giveaways and specials on re-usable bags and use them when as gift bags in place of paper ones - I also keep them handy for when people are over for parties or what have you and they need a "bag" to take projects, laundry, left overs or what have you home. Not only am I furthering the cause by supplying them with something they can re-use, but I'm continuing my own responsibility of bag use.

Want some ideas and patterns to make your own?
CLICK HERE
Be sure to pick an idea that re-purposes or re-uses other items such as pillow cases, tee-shirts, old sheets, etc.

My sister makes some fabulous re-usable bags out of - guess what? OTHER BAGS - Plastic ones! Ha! Buh bye plastic in the landfills!

BACK TO THE 'GREEN'

2010-05-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

After being smitten by a major travel 'bug' I am now back into the swing of things again.

But it got me thinking. How "green" are you when you travel? I evaluated our travels and came up with the following:

1. Used Gasbuddy.com to find the least expensive fuel
2. When going to a fast food restaurant - we parked and went in rather than 'idling' in the drive through.
3. Requested "no bag" when we got take out at Chipotle.
4. Used no plastic lids or straws when getting beverages inside the restaurant (fast food)
5. Said "no" to condiments (ketchup, etc.) and returned those that weren't used to the counter.
6. When ordering 'water' at one restaurant (fast food) they offered me a Styrofoam cup, which I declined and stated I would wait until I got to my car where I had water in a reusable bottle instead.
7. We took quite a bit of our own food which cut down on packaging waste products from fast food joints.
8. We stayed at economy hotels that were off the direct roadways to cut back on emissions from passing cars.
9. We turned off all lights and TV's when we left our room and kept the thermostat down to a reasonable temp.
10. Last but not least, if no recycling containers were found where we were, we brought it back and recycled here at home.

What travel "green" tips or things have you done while traveling?

OUT WITH THE OLD-IN WITH THE NEW

2010-04-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

A big "thank you" to Anjie (my good friend and "frugal mentor") author of the Frugal Freelancer for this one:
(Image courtesy of: http://themomblog.freedomblogging.com/tag/beauty-for-busy-moms/)

To encourage women to get gorgeously green with their beauty routine, EcoTools will collect used cosmetic brushes and bath + body care products to swap them for an EcoTools alternative and a valuable sample pack. The Look Gorgeous, Love Green Campaign strives to show women that EcoTools will keep them stunning – and sustainable.

Examples of items to swap include:

makeup brushes
body washes and scrubs
body lotions/butters
hand creams
body mists
bath sponges

For each item turned in, participants will receive a coupon for a free EcoTools alternative! [Up to $7.99 value, limit 2 coupons per person].

To continue to show respect to the earth, items collected will be recycled.

Cosmetic brushes and bath + body care products should be mailed to:

Look Gorgeous, Love Green Campaign

c/o Skirt Public Relations

2320 N. Damen Ave., #2D

Chicago, IL 60647

Provide full name, mailing address and email address when submitting products.
Chicago-area residents can swap tools in person during the local event.

I'd love to hear what you products you traded in! Tell me, tell me! =)

SPRING IS SPRUNG - HOW'S YOUR LAWN?

2010-04-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

With the onset of Spring comes lawn keeping!

Not to worry! GOATS are the new lawn mowers! JUST KIDDING!! (No pun intended! Ha!)

But actually, they will do a good job of keeping your grass manageable! But realistically, they aren't the answer for most of us homeowners.

My husband would say that the "greenest" lawn is NO LAWN...although he does a GREAT job of managing ours...but a native landscape that's a good match to your area's climate is the goal. A lawn that doesn't require a lot of manicuring or a major sprinkler system for upkeep.

We are fortunate to have a water resources outlet through our water company that provides loads of information on local area landscaping ideas and water conservation tips.

You can also find out more information HERE.

WHAT IS WALKABILITY?

2010-04-18T16:05:00.000-07:00

If you're planning to move or settle into a new community or neighborhood, you need to learn the "walkability" of that neighborhood.

Learn if you can "walk the talk" in your new neighborhood by going HERE. Here you will find a list of the nearest restaurants, movie theaters, bookstores, bars, grocery stores, etc. for any given address.

Neat!

I'd love to hear what your neighborhood's "walkability" score is!

GADGET GIRL!

2010-04-18T15:55:00.001-07:00

I love gadgets, what can I say. Not just any ol' gadget, but I do like my 'toys'.

More and more companies are making gadgets that don't require electricity to power.

Check out some of these companies:

1. FREE PLAY ENERGY
2. BOGOLIGHT

BogoLight has a program that will match your order for a rechargeable solar light and buy one for someone in a developing world or devastated area. You can choose how you want to give. There is nearly two billion people in the world that have unsafe lighting options like kerosene lanterns as their only option.

KILOWATT OR "KILL-A-WATT"? THAT IS THE QUESTION.

2010-04-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

Since I recently joined the ranks of the unemployed, I've been taking a harder and closer look at finances. Yes, I know, you shouldn't wait for an earth shaking event like being jobless to do that...but alas, it is those such events that get us in the mood for "money cleaning".

No, no...not money laundering...hahaha...just a long look at how well is your money performing for you. Is it going to all the right places? Take a LONG hard look at everything!

Let's talk energy bill.

Some things seem so small and simple, but they add up! Seriously!

1. Do you get up in the morning and the first thing you do is flick on the light? (Assuming you get up after sunrise)

Consider opening the draperies/shutters/curtains instead. When you can't - be sure to use CFL bulbs and consider putting your lighting on a timer. Especially if you're notorious for falling asleep at night in front of the TV on the couch - you know who you are! Hahaha!

2. Do you have motion lights that go on and off during the day in low lit areas?

Consider flicking the switch to off during the day.

3. Do you or someone in your family (my husband is our household culprit) that walks into the room, turns on the TV and then leaves the room?

Television sets are great 'sound' sitters...but are extreme energy hogs. If you're not watching it, turn it off! (and don't forget the DVR box 'on/off' switch or your VCR 'on/off' switch - oh, and cable box too!)

4. Do you have a kitchen counter lined with appliances? (i.e. blender, mixer, toaster, toaster oven, coffee maker, etc.)

In my recent quest to organize my house I took a look at all the appliances I have and how often I use them. I broke these down into three categories: 1) Use daily 2) Use but not all the time and 3) Haven't used on any sort of regular basis in years!

After considering each one, I dealt with each category. The 3's went into the donate/freecycle pile. The 2's I reconsidered more with the following questions: 1) How many times during the next year do I think I will use this appliance? 2) Is there another way to complete the task that this appliance does that takes less time, energy and space? I filtered out some more and placed in the donate/recycle pile and put the balance of the 'once in awhile used' appliances on the top pantry shelf where I can access them when I need to, but they are taking up space in my kitchen and aren't sitting plugged into the wall soaking up energy. Yes, they still use 'juice' when plugged in, even tho' they aren't "ON". Last, but not least, the 1's were also 'reconsidered'. I asked the same question of the 2's along with do I have multiple appliances that either serve the same purpose or have multiple purposes so as to eliminate one of them even tho' I use on a regular basis?

Once I got finished with the 1's - they were unplugged and found a home in the cupboard in the kitchen and off the counter. I even got rid of my coffee maker! Uh huh! Sure did! It was replaced with a English press instead which goes nicely up in the cupboard and is available for brewing when the occasion presents itself. I was left with a wide mouth double slot toaster, hand mixer, mini-food processor and blender. I also kept my multi-tasking Kitchen Aid, bread maker and crock pot. I have kept my rice cooker, which could have gone, but I find that I suck at making rice and waste more time, energy and food 're-doing' it then I do using the appliance. Better that I just keep it until I can master the art of cooking rice. Something so simple, I screw up every time! I also kept my ice cream maker for now. This will eventually go too, but for now, it's home is in the pantry for when the kids come over. I can control the ingredients and the novelty of 'making our own' still has some 'play' around here.

5. Large appliances. This is a tough one. Unless you find yourself in the independently wealthy category and can change out appliances like you change your shoes, you'll want to use what you have until it 'dies' and then do your homework before buying a new one. I have been a subscriber to Consumer Reports for years. They haven't steered me wrong yet. I'll never forget how proud I was when we had to replace our first appliance in our current home. I went online and checked out what Consumer Reports had to say. Then once I found the suitable replacement, I used CR to find out who carried the products. After I got an idea of what to expect financially, I used Google's "product search" to locate the place with the most 'affordable' price for the item I wanted. I then placed a call to my local store, asked if they had the appliance in stock (which they did) and if they delivered (which they did). They delivered, installed and took away my old one for me! I was able to finance it on a 12 months, no payments, no interest. Took about 2 hours of my time. I was so thrilled! I never had to leave my house! I have since used this same method on a number of items that I've needed for our home over the years.

6. If you're serious about really chipping away at your energy bill, consider getting a hand held device called "Kill-A-Watt". This device counts consumption by the kilowatt when connected to any appliance. You can find some HERE. This will help you find out what your biggest 'consumers' of kilowatt's are and knowing that will help you manage the use of them better. I learned that my dryer is a big kilowatt sucker! We dry as few items as possible. Nearly ALL shirts, t-shirts, blouses, sweaters, etc. are hung up to dry. Fortunately we live in a state that is warm and has low humidity so clothes dry rather quickly. Delicates are laid flat to dry and rugs are laid outside for drying. I watch the settings on my washer and dryer. After all, that's what they are for!! If something doesn't need dried in "HOT HOT" - don't.

Oh, and don't forget to share your device with friends and family to be even 'greener' minded.

7. Dishwasher Vs. Washing By Hand - I prefer to wash dishes by hand. I find it relaxing and I can control the water temperature, flow and how long it's going. Not to mention, I can control how 'clean' it appears to be. We have a small household and it would take a week, probably to fill our dishwasher before turning it on. By the time you run the water to rinse them off and scrape the plates, bowls and pans, you might as well have washed them. We run our dishwasher maybe once a week. Take a look at the reality of your household, the kilowatts used and what you can do to streamline dish washing.

8. To use the oven or not to use? Again, we live in a state that is warm most of the year and the last thing I want to do is turn on the oven. However, in the winter time, I do use it. Why? Well, if I'm going to be spending most of the morning in the kitchen cooking breakfast, dishes, etc. It's a small area and rather than turning up the thermostat, I let the oven do double duty. At the end of the baking process, I leave the oven door open a crack to let the nice warm air escape and help heat the area I'm occupying. Another consideration if there is just one or two of you, is to use a toaster oven or counter top oven. Be sure to count the kilowatt consumption of each and weigh out what is the best route for your purposes.

9. Handheld phones vs. corded phones. If you are still using a land line for phone service you may want to consider using a corded phone. Why? Hand held phones, although less restricting, require electricity. Corded phones don't. Do you primarily use your cell phone and keep a land line 'just in case'? Most phone plans come with voicemail so having an answering machine and hand sets is wasted electricity. Not to mention, if your electricity goes down...so does your phone! Not the case with corded phones. I like my corded phones.

10. Hot water consumption. Take a look at your water heater. Make sure it's running at maximum capacity and is up to code. Not only for purposes of saving energy but for safety. Most utility companies will provide you an evaluation or provide you the name of a service that will.

WATER - GOOD OL' H20

2010-03-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, yeah, I just talked about water, but can't help but address it some more. Went to a really neat conservation education center earlier in the week and came out with some really awesome information.

Everything from figuring your "water footprint" to water conscious landscaping ideas and so much more!

Speaking of "water footprint"...do you know how much water you are using? For tips on how to cut back (remember EVERY little bit counts) go HERE.

Remember, this is about 'balance' - being as ecologically responsible as possible. Not fanatical...just responsible.

Have a great day!

GREEN

2010-03-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

This was suppose to have been yesterday's post, but I had some technical issues and well, it just didn't happen.

Wearing green? **Pinch, Pinch** if you aren't!

Green. There is the color and then there is the mindset. Mind you, I'm all about being ecological responsible - not because I'm a big "global warming" fanatic or any other extremist, I just believe in trying to be as ecologically responsible as possible.

Take some time today and educate yourself about fabrics and the environment. As a Home Economics major in college (I think they call it "Consumer Science" now) and someone who has sewn and been 'in love' with fabric my whole life - I think it's not only important to know what's what about fabric but also that not all plant based fabrics are necessarily the best "green" choice.

Although the plant based fabrics like bamboo and modal (made from the beech tree fibers) may seem like a real "green" way to go - but in actuality they are really pretty much a "wash" when it comes to the "green factor". Even though these plants have short growing cycles and are hardy, pest-resistant plants, they require a great deal of chemicals to process them to the point where they can be made into fabric.

Since I can remember, I've been a lover of natural (now 'organic') cotton, linen, silk and wool. These fabrics are still your best bet. Find them locally - look for companies that use local resources whenever possible.

P.S. In case I forgot to mention...I LOVE fabric! :)

SPRING CLEANING?

2010-03-13T10:05:00.000-08:00

Spring has sprung - well, almost! As I've been cleaning and de-cluttering my home and surroundings, I've been trying to come up with more pure and safe ways to do cleaning. I figure every little bit counts.

My first decision was to get the cleaning products I had gathered into one place. I had some under the sink, some above the sink in the garage, some in the pantry, etc.

Once they were all gathered up, I then consolidated "like" items into one where I could. I didn't need several partially used bottles of window cleaner. Empty bottles then went to the re-cycle bin.

I then took an inventory of what was left. The 'every day' use items I put in a carry all style container under the sink. These included the following:

1) Cleanser
2) All purpose cleaner
3) Dusting spray
4) Dish soap - liquid
5) Dishwasher soap

Now I had everything I used on a regular basis in one place. In a small bucket under the sink I keep a set of rubber gloves, bottle brush, tooth brush, a "scritchy" and a larger handled brush for pots and pans and scrubbing the sink.

Under my sink now looks neat and orderly and less like a toxic dump site for chemicals.

The balance of the items (once in awhile cleaners and 'surplus' inventory) were put in the cupboard in the garage above the sink.

My goal now will be to use up the surplus I have (before buying more), recycle empties as allowed. When the time comes to replace a cleaning product, I will be asking the following questions as I purchase:

1. Is there an equal product for my needs that has better packaging or a 'no packaging' option?
2. Is there an equal or better product for my needs that is made from less toxic or non-toxic products (sustainable ones if possible)?
3. Do I really NEED this cleaning product? As in the example of dusting spray - a damp rag does the same trick for general dusting and the rag can be used over and over again.

While on the subject of dusting, there are just WAY to many wasteful products. I nixed by Swiffer along time ago - just more waste! I nixed the 'wipes' - again, just more waste. Same goes for all the toilet bowl cleaning gadgets - yeah, yeah, I know - no one likes to do this chore, but if you do it REGULARLY it's less of a ugly chore and a little elbow grease with a re-usable brush will do the same trick.

Some pure and safe basics for your cleaning arsenal should include:

1) Baking soda
2) White vinegar
3) Borax
4) Liquid castile soap
5) Olive oil
6) Bon Ami cleanser
7) Lemon juice (fresh lemons if you can)
8) Tea tree oil

You're all set now to a 'greener' cleaning (and money saving, by the way!) routine.

With a little online research you can find several formulas for cleaning solutions. The product manufacturers websites are a great place to start for ideas on how their products can be used. I've linked a few above.

HOUSE WARMING OR WEDDING GIFT IDEA - "Green-cleaning Starter Kit"
1. Find a nice basket, bucket, or large glass/ceramic bowl
2. Gather up the items I've listed above along with some colorful microfiber cloths and some 'scrubbies' (made of sustainable products)
3. Arrange in your choice of container
4. Add some 'recipes' (formulas) for cleaning solutions and an "green cleaning" idea list

Happy Spring "Green" Cleaning!

EVERYTHING IN IT'S PLACE

2010-03-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

Getting organized! Ugh! Some are naturally 'organized' and others have to really work at it.

I find myself somewhere in the middle. Some say I'm organized...but I feel I have a way to go still. I continue to work at simplifying, streamlining and organizing all areas of my life - especially my home.

As a "resolution" this year I began reading the book "ONE YEAR TO AN ORGANIZED LIFE" by Regina Leeds. So far I'm finding it to be just excellent.

Keeping things organized is as green as it gets! If you can't find something, you're more likely going to buy a replacement. In doing so you've spent both unnecessary money not to mention the associated resources (gas, time, etc.).

Make your home a "green" sanctuary with a "place for everything and everything in it's place"!

DRINKING WATER

2010-03-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

It amazes me how we've come to be a society that has to have a bottle of water (or something else) with them at all times.

Growing up we didn't have this? We survived just fine!!

Drinking water from the tap is a lot better for the environment than buying it bottled. I can hear the gasps of horror now!

There is a boat load of information now available on the Internet citing the pros and cons of the bottled water industry. You can read up on that on your own.

If you MUST have your bottle choose glass or stainless steel for your container. I've re-used several types of glass bottles (even glass Mason jar) to drink water from. If you're afraid of "breaking it" - then go for the stainless steel. You can find them in just about any major retail stores now and there is a plethora of online stores that carry them.

The purpose of this post is to provide you with a great resource of information for people who receive their drinking water (tap) from a municipal resource. If you are a lucky soul to have an Artesian well - bravo!

Check out how your state's water rates and learn about potential contaminants HERE and then buy a filtration system accordingly. I found this site to be user friendly and far easier to assimilate the information on it than what is provided to us by our local water district. You can view your local water district information WITHOUT signing up for this website!

I found out water district's results to be quite interesting. I currently use just a Britta pitcher filter but have a higher quality filtration system that hasn't been installed yet (yeah, it's on the "honey do" list).

If your local water gets good marks and your biggest concern is the chlorine they add to keep the water from picking up contaminants as it travels through the cities system, then try filling a pitcher of water and letter it sit uncovered on the counter overnight. The chlorine will evaporate and later you can stick in the 'frig covered which will help to keep it cold.

SEEMS GREEN

2010-03-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

Eating organic processed snacks seems like a good "green" thing, right? Well, truthfully, snacking on whole foods that are organically grown and purchased locally is really the greener way to go.

Cereals, crackers, chips, et al made from origanically grown ingredients is a good switch from processed 'junk' nutritionally, however, these processed items, although 'organic', still require a tremendous amount of energy to produce, package and distribute.

Find a local source, like a farmer's market, to purchase whole (and organic if possible) foods to snack on. This is the greener and more frugal (sometimes) way to go.

RESOURCE FOR FINDING A FARMER'S MARKET HERE AND HERE (California)

D.I.Y.

2010-03-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

Doing It Yourself is often greener than buying.

You can go HERE for some awesome ideas and inspiration on "how to" do it yourself.

BAR NONE

2010-02-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

For showers and handwashing, skip the liquid soap in favor of a bar - less packaging, and just as much cleaning power.

Choose a mild soap made from organic and fair-trade vegetable ingredients, with no synthetic colors, fragrances, or antibacterial additives.

If bar soap is just not your thing, consider larger refill bottles of products and re-use/re-fill the dispensing bottle you already have rather than throwing it out each time.

You can also easily make your own soap? HERE is just one of many instructions on the web.

SHOE FLY

2010-02-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

Do you have new or lightly used running shoes you're looking to get rid of? Buy some, then think "oh my word, what was I thinking?" - Can't return them? No receipt?

Here is an option.

One World Running will send them to runners in need around the world.

If One World Running deems them too worn, the shoes go to Nike's Reuse-a-Shoe program instead. These re-used old shoes end up paving a playground.

THE PITS

2010-02-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

If you eat avocados, it's easy to sprout the seeds into air-purifying, carbon-fixing houseplants.

Instructions on how to grow an avocado tree from seed can be found HERE.

Avocados make GREAT Guacamole, too!

Guacamole, a dip made from avocados, is originally from Mexico. The name is derived from two Aztec Nahuatl words - ahuacatl (avocado) and molli (sauce). The trick to perfect guacamole is using good, ripe avocados. Check for ripeness by gently pressing the outside of the avocado. If there is no give, the avocado is not ripe yet and will not taste good. If there is a little give, the avocado is ripe. If there is a lot of give, the avocado may be past ripe and not good. In this case, taste test first before using.

Perfect Guacamole Recipe - Courtesy of Simply Recipes

Print Options

Ingredients

2 ripe avocados
1/2 red onion, minced (about 1/2 cup)
1-2 serrano chiles, stems and seeds removed, minced
2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon of fresh lime or lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
A dash of freshly grated black pepper
1/2 ripe tomato, seeds and pulp removed, chopped

Garnish with red radishes or jicama. Serve with tortilla chips.

Method

1 Cut avocados in half. Remove seed. Scoop out avacado from the peel, put in a mixing bowl. (See How to Cut and Peel an Avocado.)

2 Using a fork, mash the avocado. Add the chopped onion, cilantro, lime or lemon, salt and pepper and mash some more. Chili peppers vary individually in their hotness. So, start with a half of one chili pepper and add to the guacamole to your desired degree of hotness. Be careful handling the peppers; wash your hands thoroughly after handling and do not touch your eyes or the area near your eyes with your hands for several hours.

Keep the tomatoes separate until ready to serve.

Remember that much of this is done to taste because of the variability in the fresh ingredients. Start with this recipe and adjust to your taste.

3 Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole to prevent oxidation from the air reaching it. Refrigerate until ready.

4 Just before serving, add the chopped tomato to the guacamole and mix.

Serves 2-4.

Variations

For a very quick guacamole just take a 1/4 cup of salsa and mix it in with your mashed avocados.

You don't need to have tomatoes in your guacamole.

To extend a limited supply of avocados, add either sour cream or cottage cheese to your guacamole dip. Purists may be horrified, but so what? It tastes great. In fact, guacamole with a little cottage cheese added to it is my favorite.

GREEN WEEKEND IDEA!

2010-02-20T09:54:00.000-08:00

Hold a wine-tasting party featuring local, organic, and biodynamic wines!
Rather than taossing the corks, re-purpose them into trivets, bulletin boards, or other crafts; chop them up and compost them! Yep, compost them!

Use them for mulch or ship them off to Missouri-based green-building-materials company Yemm & Hart, pioneering recyclers of wine corks into floor tiles.

Need I say it, but don't forget to recycle those wine bottles. There are plenty of ideas on re-purposing those bottles as well! Some ideas can be found HERE and HERE.

INSTRUCTIONS for cork projects can be found HERE

SOAP TO NUTS

2010-02-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

Soap nuts, the dried fruit of the Chinese soapberry tree, contain the natural detergent saponin. A few nuts in a cotton drawstring bag will get several loads of clothes fresh and clean without any chemicals, and you can compost the nuts when they're all sudsed out! Sustainable harvested, too.

You can buy them HERE or HERE!

DID YOU KNOW? 5 THINGS YOU CAN RECYCLE

2009-10-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

RECYCLE - RECYCLE - RECYCLE!
Did you know you can recycle the following?

1. APPLIANCES: Many stores will recycle your old appliances when you purchase a new one. Goodwill accepts working appliances. Go to www.goodwill.org, or you can contact the Steel Recycling Institute to recycle them at www.recycle-steel.org.

2. ATHLETIC SHOES: One World Running will send still-wearable shoes to athletes in need in Africa, Latin America, and Haiti: www.oneworldrunning.com. Nike's Reuse-a-shoe program turns old shoes into playground and athletic flooring: www.nikeuseashoe.com

3. BATTERIES: Contact www.batteryrecycling.com

4. CLOTHES: Wearable clothes can go to your local Goodwill outlet or shelter. Donate wearable women's business clothes to the non-profit Dress for Success, which gives them to low-income women as they search for jobs: www.dressforsuccess.org. Offer UNwearable clothes to local animal boarding and shelter facilities, which often use them as pet bedding.

5. COMPACT FLOURESCENT BULBS (CFL): Take them to your local IKEA store for recycling: www.ikea.com. You can also order a Syvania RecyclePak: www.sylvania.com/recycle/recyclepak.

HERE'S FIVE MORE.............

6. COMPUTERS AND ELECTONICS: To find the most responsible recyclers go to: www.bank.org/pledge/Locations.html

7. FOAM PACKING PEANUTS: Your local pack-and-ship store will likely accept these for reuse. Or call the Plastic Loose Fill Producers Council to find a drop off site: 800-828-2214. For places to drop off foam blocks for recycling, contact the Alliance of Foam Packaging Recyclers: 410-451-8340, www.epspackaging.org/info.html

8. INK/TONER CARTRIDGES: www.recycleplace.com; also many office supply retailers offer ink/toner cartridge recycle programs.

9. OIL: Find used motor oil hotlines for each state: www.recycleoil.org

10. PHONES: Collective Good will refurbish your phone and sell it to someone in a developing country: www.collectivegood.com. Call to Protect reprograms cell phones to dial 911 and gives them to domestic violence victimes: www.donateaphone.com.

SAVE ENERGY & CASH! FLICK THAT SWITCH!

2009-03-14T14:03:00.001-07:00

I can hear echo's of my dad spouting "Money doesn't grow on trees...turn off the light"...or "We're not heating (or cooling depending on where you live) the outside! Shut the door!". Once I had my own kids...I learned quickly just exactly what he meant.

Leave a single light on for one year and it will burn 714 pounds of coal and create 1,852 pounds of carbon dioxide. Most heating/cooling systems are maximized when the doors to rooms are kept closed, not to mention the wasted energy created when the doors to the outside are inadvertently left open.

If your family is forgetting to "flip the switch", try having a "Energy Challenge". Each month one person is the light and door monitor. Anyone he or she catches leaving the lights on has to pay a fine. If everyone goes one week without being fined, celebrate with a special treat, like ice-cream sundaes for dessert or family movie night.

TRASH FOR CASH!

2009-03-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

Spare the landfill and have a yard sale! Give everyone in the family a "position" (i.e. manager, promoter, cashier, salesperson) and perhaps have a "theme" for your sale. Then decide as a family how you will use the profits.

A good way to really get rid of your items, the last hour of the sale - make it an "all you can fit in a bag is $2.00".

If you don't want to do the sale, you can always give it away...There's always someone will to take it.

Eyeglasses: neweyesfortheneedy.org
Cell phones: donateaphone.com
Prom dresses: glassslipperproject.org

If nothing else, post your items on Freecycle.org and you'll more than likely find a taker.

Other ways to "cash in" on your old stuff:

Sell your old CD's, Books, DVDs, Software on Amazon.com

GOOD GREEN FUN!

2009-03-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

As a child you could often find me entertaining myself with an old shoebox, magazines, paper, pencils, scissors and the like...we'd make "Penny Peep Shows" out of old magazines and shoe boxes...so much fun!

My grand kids love doing "projects" as they call them as well. One way to encourage them to 'recycle' and 'reuse' is to buy a large paper punch - you can find them in scrapbook stores - in the shape of a circle, square, flower and 'tag'. Kids love punching out shapes from old greeting cards, junk mail, etc. These shapes can them be used as "tags" for gifts, etc. Taking a smaller paper punch, make a small hole in the punched out shapes and re-use curling ribbon, yard, ribbon ties, etc. from past gifts, boxes and the like and tie it to the shape.

If you have a nice little "To: From:" stamp the kids can then stamp the shapes and group them into envelopes for use throughout the year.

Gift wrapping challenge: Instead of buying more wrapping paper, try using something you already have in the house. For example, a Kid's Gift: Use the comic section of the newspaper. Brown paper bags work wonders - cut out a few designs from other paper, stick to outside of bag, write your own message on bag; old maps work great or make part of the gift, the wrapping. For example, a collander filled with pasta sauce, hot mit and pasta and loaf of bread tied up with a bow needs no wrapping.

Save food by having an "Iron Chef" leftover competition: Once or twice a week family members take turns creating new dishes with what's in the fridge. Prizes are awarded monthly!

Speaking of green family fun...grow your own tomatoes, using a homemade garlic-and-red pepper spray to ward off bugs. When the tomatoes are ripe, let the kids pick them and help can them.

VHS TAPE RECYCLING

2009-03-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

Now that DVDs have taken over, eveyone has a pile of old VHS tapes gathering dust. To keep them out of the landfills, drop them in the mail to Alternative Community Training, a nonprofit Missouri company that provides jobs to people with disabilities.

Workers erase the tapes, reselling the ones that are in good shape and recycling the plastic parts of the rest. They've recycled more than 1 million tapes so far.

Here's the address:
ACT
2200 Burlington
Columbia, MO 65202

Be sure to use the cheaper "media" mail rate when mailing.

TAKE 5 MINUTES!

2009-03-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

Take 5 minutes and tote wire hangers back to the dry cleaner's so they can be reused or recycled.

You'll be doing a good thing for the environment - 3.5 billion wire hangers (I'm not sure how they know that?) end up in landfills every year - and you'll reduce closet clutter, too!

This tip was found in THE GREEN YEAR: 365 SMALL THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE by Joni Helmer (available at Amazon.com)

GOT OLD SHOES? DONATE!

2009-01-04T20:27:00.000-08:00

Featured in the Winter issue of GREEN GUIDE, Soles for Souls is an organization dedicated to providing shoes for those less fortunate.

Oh my gosh, Americans are HUGE shoe 'whores' (pardon the adjective) but it's true! When was the last time you wore the same pair of shoes until you had holes in the bottom? Better yet, if you did, did you throw them away or have them re-soled?

If you have read my other blog(s) you'll note that I'm a big Sex and The City fan. Sarah Jessica Parker plays Carrie, who is a HUGE 'shoe connoisseur'. Lots and lots of comic jests are made about women and their shoes. Then there are the athletes with their own "line" of designer shoes, etc. etc.

The majority of anyone reading this blog entry could not even begin to understand what it would be like to have NO SHOES!!

With the onset of the New Year usually brings 'closet cleaning'...Out with the old, in with the new!

Consider washing those worn tennis shoes, buy some new laces for them, slap some polish on them and donate them! If not to this organization, your local homeless shelter.

I'm going to be challenging my circle of "girls" to be ruthless in the next couple of weeks so that we can put together a donation party up at the local drop off location in Chico.

If you've already "paired" down (sorry, couldn't help it) your shoe collection to the bare bones, consider a monetary donation. Here in California we are "flip flop" fanatics...they are everywhere. Even in the winter you see people in nothing but flip flops.

For $10, you can purchase a pair of flip flops (Men, Women and Children's sizes available)

or perhaps

Those Shoes Book

In this warm and very real story from Maribeth Boelts, a young boy realizes that the things he has are worth more than the things he wants. All copies are signed by the author.

Soles4Souls is a shoe charity dedicated to helping those in need. As a shoe charity they collect gently worn shoes to donate them to those in need. The donation of shoes gives someone the hope for a better tomorrow — it is a great way to recycle shoes. Donate shoes today.

WASTE FREE LUNCHES

2009-01-04T19:23:00.001-08:00

For a good majority of my working life I have commuted no less than 30 minutes one way to work and upwards of 1.5 hours at one point in my life (that's one way). With long commute days came the "food short cuts" (aka fast food, convenience food). As a result I have struggled with my weight for sometime now.

About 4-5 years ago when my life took a turn after being laid off from work for the first time, I began making eating changes, first out of necessity and then for health reasons. 30 lbs later and lighter, I changed jobs again and was back to "super commuting" and hence the fast food lines became my friend again for lunchtime. It seemed liked everytime I would try to diet, one thing or another would get in the way and now another year has passed and all my hard work is behind me.

In my effort to be more "green" conscious and not continue to the waste problems of our society, I went on the search for reuseable lunch ware. In my search I found this site. Although mainly directed towards healthy lunches for children, why not use the same approach for myself? It will definiately help me with portion control and it will also provide for no waste lunches.

Although I won't be buying from this site, I will definately be using it as a base of for my changes with the menu ideas etc. I have my neoprene lunch bag, my stainless steel water bottle and now I just need to get some reusable containers for sandwiches and the like.

I'll be keeping my eye out at thrift stores and garage sales for lunch boxes and the like.

I wanted to share this in the event others may benefit from the idea as well.

Be sure to sign up for their monthly newsletter.

SACRAMENTO FOOD CO-OP HOSTS FREE WORKSHOP

2009-01-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

Growing Healthy Children: Eating Well on a Budget

When: Saturday, January 17, 10-11:30 am
Cost: Free
What: Feeding your family healthy and delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank. This kid-friendly workshop will give you ideas for:

menu planning
making the most of left-overs
creating simple meals for all ages
buying in bulk and in season to save
involving your children in the kitchen

Instructor: Clare Bonsall

This upcoming workshop is free and open to the public. Children are welcome to attend. Call the Customer Service Desk at 916-455-2667 to reserve a space. Please join us as we help families develop healthy eating habits to last a lifetime!

COLOR YOUR ELECTRONICS - GREEN!

2008-12-27T15:35:00.000-08:00

It just got easier to be "green".

Send your old electronics, any brand, to Toshiba and the company will recycle them at no cost to you! It'll even cover the cost of shipping!

Find out more HERE

GOING GREEN GOT YOU GREEN?

2008-11-28T23:54:00.000-08:00

As the new year approaches I always spend time thinking about the past year(s) and what I want to do the upcoming year to improve my life - physically, emotionally, economically, etc.

I've really made some great strides in the area of 'going green' - but boy do I have a ways to go.

It can really be overwhelming if you think of it. I know if I feel that way, then others probably do also.

Where to start?

Well, if everyone made just ONE change this year - the benefits would be HUGE!

Here are some small everyday changes you can make:

1. Use 'reusable' tote bags - "Just say 'NEITHER' to the bagger's question of ....Paper or Plastic?"
Remember, even if you're at a store other than a retail store - and they start to drop ONE or TWO items in a bag...DECLINE the bag!
2. Give up your plastic water bottles - not only will you save money...but you will be saving the landfills. Do you know that many places still do not have recycle programs for plastics. Get yourself a stainless steel water bottle and filter your tap water.
3. Love your morning "Java"? Skip the drive-thru and get yourself a stainless steel travel mug and brew at home.
4. Bring your own lunch supplies - an insulated carrier, reuseable utensils and reusable food containers.
5. Install compact fluorescent light bulbs.

This is an area where "a little bit goes a long way"!

FREE MAG SUBSCRIPTION

2008-10-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

1 YEAR MAG SUBSCRIPTION TO "PLENTY" GREEN MAGAZINE HERE

WATER WISELY! GREAT TIPS!

2008-08-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Did you know that up to half of the water an average household consumes is used to maintain lawns and landscapes? With record droughts in many parts of the country it just makes sense to conserve water. But that doesn't mean sacrificing a beautiful yard! By incorporating water-wise features and plants into your landscape you'll not only help the environment, you'll also save time and money.

GO HERE and check out this great article

What Are Your "Green" Credentials?

2008-06-30T19:42:00.001-07:00

I subscribe to a great e-newsletter called "The Dollar Stretcher" - hey, I even had an article of my own published in it a while back...but never mind my meager 'grand-standing' - Gary Foreman (the newsletter's owner) delivers a FABULOUS introduction to today's newsletter with regards to "living green"...

I couldn't have said it better myself, Gary!

Introduction
by Gary Foreman gary@stretcher.com

Hello to all my Frugal Friends!

Lately everyone has been touting their "green" credentials. You don't have to look too hard to find someone talking earnestly about "carbon footprints" or expounding on renewable energy. I admit that some of them seem a little phony to me.

Here's why.

Their lifestyles don't match their rhetoric. In other words, they're walk doesn't match their talk. When the conversation turns to environmental issues, I have myown "green test." It's my way of finding out whether the person really cares about the environment or is just mouthing something that they read in a magazine or heard at a rally somewhere.

I'll ask if the person shops at garage sales and thriftstores. It takes natural resources to make most things. Buying used means that you're not consuming those resources. That's real environmentalism. The person who's really concerned about the environment will make sure that their used items are given a chance for a second (or better still a third) life.

Donate your used items to a thrift store, hold a garage sale or sell them on eBay. Just because you're through with something doesn't mean that it can't be useful to someone else.

I'll try to find when was the last time that they fixed something instead of replacing it. Often I get blank stares on this one. Fix it? You know the people I'm talking about. If the least little thing goes wrong, they're out shopping for a replacement. Never mind that a repair might be easy. Or the problem might not affect how they use the item. They have their excuse to buy a new one. And they're not going to let tossing one more item into a landfill stop them!

I've known many people who have been good to the environment. But, many of them never thought of it that way. They were just living frugally. Looking for ways to avoid spending money came naturally. That meant fewer purchases. Considering alternatives before throwing something away was automatic. In the process, they walked gently on the earth and only consumed what was necessary.

Personally, I'd much rather talk to the person living a thrifty lifestyle than the expert in carbon offsets. I find that I learn much more practical information that I can apply and benefit from. I learn things that can actually make a difference in my life and also make a difference for the earth.

Keep on Stretching Those Dollars!
Gary

What Do You Do With Your CFL's??

2008-06-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

Home Depot recently launched a program to recycle consumer compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs.

At each The Home Depot store, customers can simply bring in any expired, unbroken CFL bulbs, and give them to the store associate behind the returns desk. The bulbs will then be managed responsibly by an environmental management company who will coordinate CFL packaging, transportation and recycling to maximize safety and ensure environmental compliance.

In addition to the CFL recycling program, The Home Depot has also launched an in store
energy conservation program to switch Light Fixture Showrooms in U.S. stores from incandescent bulbs to CFLs by Fall 2008 and save $16 million annually in energy costs.

Major KUDOS to Home Depot!! Woohoo!

Recycle Your Crayons

2008-06-30T10:00:00.001-07:00

I love this one! A GREAT site and a GREAT idea!
REBECCA'S RECYCLED 'RITERS

We are always looking to help in the reduce, reuse,

recycle cycle. We encourage others to do so as well. To reward you (and your young ones) for not throwing your old crayons into the trash, we will send you some of our 'riters in exchange for every pound you donate

(a pound is approximately 100 crayons).

Don't forget to recycle the crayons you get from eating out

and the leftovers from school as well as any you find around

the house. We will also take back any of our crayons after

they have been well loved (though don't expect this to

happen soon). Feel free to collect old crayons from friends as well. We can NOT take any other 'shaped'

crayons as they are more plastic than wax.

We encourage classrooms to put a box in the corner and

collect all year long as well.

You can mail your well loved crayons to

5555 SW Seymour Court, Portland, Oregon 97221.

Don't forget to include your name and address INSIDE the package so we can send you your thank you.

Please don't mail crayons if you are in the Portland

metro area - we would rather pick up from you.

Please e-mail us for more info.

I'm Getting A "Charge" Out This!

2008-06-30T08:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, yes I have a little "awnry-ness" in me when I want to make a point. Ask my hubby - he will "gladly" attest to that...haha...anyway, I've really been getting a "charge" lately at people's responses to some of my attempts at living a 'greener' life.

It amazes me as I go through my daily routine how "huffy" some people get even when you dare to deviate from the "generally accepted norm".

I first noticed this back in February when I went into Macy's looking for a new shirt to wear to our company customer appreciation party. I found what I wanted (on the sale rack @ 60% off, mind you - SCORE!) and went to pay for it. After she rang up the sweater and I paid for it, she went to put it in a bag and I said "oh, no thank you - I don't need a plastic bag"...she then responded "well, you've only bought ONE thing and we typically don't give out larger paper handled bags to customers that buy "just" ONE thing"...It took EVERYTHING I could muster up to NOT say what I was thinking which was "ok, doomkoff, did you hear me ASK for a large paper handled bag?"...but of course, I didn't - I just looked at the gal and said "oh, I'll just take the sweater with out a bag"...again, she looked like a deer in headlights - "what?" she said "you don't want a bag?" - her tone was that of total disgust like "what are you thinking?? you don't want a bag?" - I was just getting the biggest kick out of it. I replied with "no thank you - after all I have my receipt and it is only ONE thing!" and left the counter.

Similarly I've gotten the same reactions from fast food (yeah, yeah, I know - yes, I do go to fast food sometimes) establishments. I'll order a 'plain muffin' and when they go to bag it up and throw a million napkins inside with just ONE plain muffin - I'll say..."Oh, that's ok, I'll just take the muffin only". I would then catch them throwing out the bag that they just took off the pile and "fluffed" for use...so I started saying "Oh, that's ok, I'll just take the muffin only AND you can then SAVE (hint, hint) that bag for a larger order for someone else" It cracks me up when I go through the drive -thru and order a "PLAIN" muffin - I get up to window - they hand me the bag (before I have a change to say I don't want one) and I look in the bag - because it seems SO heavy for just a "PLAIN" muffin and I find - plastic utensils - for what? a PLAIN muffin? - then I look further - Oooooooh, the utensils must be for the BUTTER AND JELLY that I'm "sure" I want for my "PLAIN" muffin! Good gawd! I asked for a "PLAIN" muffin - if I wanted butter on it, I wouldn't have ordered it PLAIN! Then....on top of that there must be a dozen paper napkins in the bag - for what?? The really messy "PLAIN" muffin I just got?

Now, before you get your panties in an uproar - let me say that those items that don't make it back to the restaurant DO get used! I haven't had to buy paper napkins for lord knows how long...I use them at work in the break room and at home, there are some in the glove box of each of our vehicles...the butter and jelly get used as well. I save the utensil "kits" (for lack of better word) and donate to a homeless shelter here in town. Now I know they aren't probably recycling - but I do know that they are at least being used. I do recall someone telling me that the homeless often "KEEP" and reuse these utensils.

One time I went to give the napkins, utensils, butter and jelly back to them and the person at the window said "oh we can't accept those once they've left the restaurant" - I'm like "WHAT?" I'm still sitting at the drive-thru window - I didn't even ask for these...what a stupid waste! So now, when I'm ordering I have to remember to also include the "idiot instructions" [disclaimer: no offense to all drive-thru attendants who have excellent listening skills and great customer service and eco-conscious minds] and tell them what I want and include "no bag, no butter, no jelly, no utensils and just ONE napkin" - that way when I get to the window to get my order...........well, let's just say I haven't YET been 'amazed' at the fabulous listening skills of drive-thru attendants...I can see them now, taking my order...with their head set on staring down at the silicone protected keyboard going "Oh my gawd - I don't have a button for that...what do I do?" I remain forever hopeful....

In the grocery store it never ceases to amaze me that the baggers try to put EVERYTHING in a bag - a "BAG" of potatoes? come on - the potatoes are already in a bag...good grief! Then there is always that bagger who tries to load 2 or 3 two-liter bottles of soda into a plastic bag! Hello? I cracks me up how people get so immersed in their 'routines' that they don't realize it - I put my groceries on the check out belt - and put my re-usable bags on top...as the food goes down the belt, the checker takes the bags off the top of the food items and sets them in the bagging area...then proceeds to drop my items in a plastic bag! Hello? I then say "oh, I didn't want plastic bags - I brought my own bags...you put them over there". The checker then does one of those "Duh" facial gestures and 'unbags' my items from the plastic bags and then tears them off and throws them away! Again...HELLO PEOPLE!! Think!! Isn't the reason we're using re-usable bags to get away from all the plastic bag waste!

Ok, I will step down off my podium now and just I encourage you to ask yourself ONE more question when you are pondering "Paper or Plastic?" - instead ask yourself "BAG or NO BAG?"... now THAT is the 'real' question!

PORTLAND & VANCOUVER & BOSTON FRIENDS - CHECK THIS OUT!

2008-06-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN SELECT METROPOLITAN AREAS!

WHERE?
Atlanta, BOSTON, Chicago, Philadelphia, PORTLAND, Toronto, VANCOUVER, AND more!

Here's how it works.

You agree to keep your car keys in your junk drawer for just one month, from July 21st through August 15th.

In return, you get a loaded public transit pass, a free 1-year Zipcar membership, some driving time plus more goodies!

During the month, they'll ask that you check in and let them know how your diet's going. You can send them emails, even video clips, to share your thoughts and stories.

They'll post excerpts on their website to help keep everyone motivated! Want to learn more? CLICK HERE

Free Cell Phone/Battery Recycle Bag!

2008-06-24T09:57:00.000-07:00

Free Cell Phone/Battery Recycle Bag!

GoVios Going Green™ is making available, for free, a special Tyvek bag as part of our Recycling Campaign. Please use this bag to recycle your used rechargeable batteries, chargers, and old cell phones by placing them in this pre-paid return bag. GoVios will help protect the environment by keeping toxic waste from entering landfills. You can also send in any type of used batteries you might have rather than throwing them in the trash risking the possibility of future groundwater contamination.

To get a free Tyvek bag to recycle your old cell phones and batteries, please click on the image below to email your name and address, country and postal code.

10% of GoVios retail cell phone plans gross revenue is donated to:

Recycle Old Electronics For Cash

2008-06-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Having trouble getting rid of old electronics? Relax and take a deep breath.

You can trade in your old computers, monitors, digital cameras, MP3 players, game systems, etc. for a Cosco gift card.

The site gives an estimated value for the item and they pay for shipping it to them.

I plugged in a variety of items and while the values weren't great, I've seen worse.

And hey, you actually get a gift card that's useful. By the way, even if your item has no value, they will recycle it for FREE.

RELATED INFORMATION:

Getting rid of those hard-to-recycle electronics just got easier. On June 1st, Best Buy launched a program allowing customers to bring in electronics for free recycling, including televisions, computers and cameras. This expansion to their current recycling program is being tested in select stores in the Baltimore, San Francisco and Minnesota areas. If the test proves successful, Best Buy will expand the program nationally.