Going Green

We are making a concerted effort to go green in our home. It's a slow process, mostly because of the adjustment to our budget, but we definitely feel good about it. Here's a list of some of the things we're doing:

• We now use energy efficient light bulbs in every place we can in our home - these last 10 times longer than the other type, and use 2/3's of the energy.

• We support local business.

• We buy organic food products. This has not been a complete transition yet, mostly because the stores near us don't have enough options yet. We are buying only organic milk, yogurt and eggs. We buy our meat from a local butcher shop, and the meat comes from local resources. We buy organic produce as often as available. Always on our greens, apples, oranges, mangoes.

• We've expanded our garden. It's a completely organic garden. This year we'll be growing Tomatoes, Zucchini, Red Peppers, Green Beans, Parsley, Basil, Cilantro (possibly a few other herbs, tbd once I get through my herb book!).

• Plans are in the works to make our home more energy efficient. Big plans for the tax return this year. We are getting glass block windows in our basement (finally), and blowing insulation into our eavespace. If money allows, we'll be insulating our basement ceiling as well. Eventually, i'd like to purchase energy efficient storm doors. Our front door is particularly old, but it's beautiful and adds to the character of the house. A new storm door will help us keep it.

• We purchased an energy efficient refrigerator in December. We have vowed to research our energy efficient options on all of our purchases. It was particularly important with a purchase this big. I am researching sustainable flooring options for our kitchen (particularly interested in bamboo and cork) as well.

• I am starting compost bins in our yard (and i am VERY excited about this).

• I have purchased compostable and biodegradable (ethanol free!) waste bags.

It's really all been quite simple to do. I just wish everyone would consider making some effort for a greener lifestyle. It would make a world of difference.