Happy Earth Day!

I am by no means an Earth-worshiper: I'd have to say that I lean more toward its creator. That being said, Earth Day is a great day for everyone to celebrate the wonderful world that we're in.

If nothing else, it is a reminder to be thankful for our environment, and to possibly think about a few ways to keep it around. Kids are never (well, almost never) too young to involve in this sort of thing. In fact, I think that it's pretty essential to instill an appreciation of nature in them while they are young. So, this Earth Day or any day, try one or two of these tips and feel a little greener:

1. Take backpacks, tote bags, etc. to the grocery store. When the teenager bagging your veggies asks, "Paper or plastic?" just tell them that you've brought your own bags. Repeat as often as possible. Some stores (Whole Foods, Safeway, Price Chopper, Hannaford, etc.) will even give you a rebate (3-5 cents) for each bag you bring & use.

2. Take a 1-liter bottle and fill part way with rocks, sand, or other heavy material. Top it off with water and put it in your toilet's water tank. It will save you if you're paying for water, and it reduces the waste. (Do be sure you've still got 3 gal of water in the tank & Don't try this if you've already got a low-flow toilet. Just pat yourself on the back instead.)

3. Replace old light bulbs with Energy Star ones!

4. Turn off your lights: always when leaving a room, and often even when you are in it. It's surprising how rarely you actually need them. Same goes for computers and other appliances.

5. If you aren't already, start recycling! Every bit of trash that doesn't end up in a landfill is progress. Kids can help set up a mini home recycling center, and sort bottles, cans, paper, etc. to help keep things organized.

6. Take a walk- anywhere- and pick up all the litter you find along the way. (Gloves- reusable, of course- might be a good idea)

7. Use Tupperware, or other reusable containers to pack snacks & lunches instead of baggies and other disposable options.

8. Turn the thermostat down when its cold and up when its hot- humans managed to survive a really long time without climate control! Let's use it wisely.

9. Walk or ride bikes instead of driving. Kids will especially enjoy this adventure, and it not only helps the environment, but it'll help your health too.

10. Fill in the blank:_____________________! Find a way you can help, and go do it.