What are you doing to save the planet?

I used to think that people who wanted to save the planet were a bit off their rockers. They were optimists and pessimists all in one. They thought they could save the world and they also thought the world was coming to an end. These so called 'green' people were more of what I thought a hippy to be. I just thought that it was bit much for me.

Then, one miraculous day I had a child. I, like every other new parent, wanted to give my child the world. How on earth do I attempt that? I would sit and think of all the things I did as a child -- playing in the marsh at the end of my street as a child, exploring the neighborhood for all the creatures I could find, collecting snakes and tadpoles in buckets to watch them... then letting them go, getting down on my hands and knees and enjoying nature and enjoying what the earth had to offer. I don't remember getting a barbie for christmas or a bike for whatever birthday. In order to give my children the world, I have to save the world. I have to make sure that the same mother nature is still around for my kids to explore and I have to make sure that my grandkids have the same opportunites... and their children and grandchildren. It may not affect them today or tomorrow, but all things take planning and preparation.

This is what we are doing with our planet. Instead of fields of green, we're seeing this...

I don't know about you, but that shouldn't be the future of our planet. A lot of people are selfish and have the attitude that they won't see the ramifications of their actions, so why care? My answer is simple.... You have been blessed with a wonderful life. You have happiness in children or work or whatever your passion may be. You are able to do so without worry because our planet is ok... for now. Wouldn't you love for your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and on and on to be able to experience life and happiness as well? If you wish the best for your children, then why not your great-grandchildren's children?

There are so many ways that you can help. You can switch to energy star appliances, recycle more than you dispose, purchase organic items, switch to high efficiency light bulbs, use cloth diapers, instead of plastic bags at the grocery store you can bring your own from home or use paper. There are simple, everyday things that you can do as well! Turn down your thermostat a couple degrees in winter and up a couple degrees in the summer! Turn off lights and unnecessary electronics when not in use. Dispose of your used batteries at appropriate facilities. Use your recycle bin more than your garbage can. Turn the temperature down on your water heater. Instead of using paper towels, use a kitchen towel to clean. Grow your own garden and eat what you grow. There are so many ways you can help.

Personally, my husband still thinks I go overboard. He doesn't initiate any of my ventures, but he does go along with them. He has found that many of the things we've changed have actually made our lives easier. We spend less money and we feel healthier.

Please help save our planet! We want to see THIS!

Look for a cloth diaper blog soon to come! :)