I’ve always been someone to look for a way to reuse, not spend money if I don’t have to, and living as sustainably as I can over the long term. It’s certainly easier on the earth, and my pocketbook as well, so what could be so bad about it? Well, if you listen to my kids, you’ll hear plenty of complaining. They feel burdened by turning off the lights when they leave a room…(GASP)! Imagine having to flick a switch as you leave a room? Well, I have news for them. I’m putting thought into even more ways to be sustainable …., I know I’m in for it, but I think they’ll thank me at some point. Some of my thoughts in this regard follow.
Skip Traditional Christmas
Who said you have to run yourself ragged shopping, sending out cards, and spending money you really don’t have? There’s really no good reason you can’t celebrate the Christmas season without all of those stress enducing things, and still be filled with the love, peace, and REAL meaning of what we’re celebrating. I’m thinking about switching things up and enjoying baking, my family, football, a nice church service and final dinner. With this I’ll call it a Christmas. Wouldn’t that be a trip? Wow…I know I’ll be hearing about all kinds of reasons I’m insane for this. What do you think, should I be so bold?
Eat Less Grocery Store Meat/Hunt Wild Game
You can save quite a bit on your grocery bill by eating less or no meat at all. I’ve become more involved in eating meat from craving it since beginning to weight lift, but I can do less of it. We all can. You can provide complete proteins from good food combining with grains and beans and save a ton in the check out line. Another great way to make the most of food resources is to fish and hunt wild game. I have begun fishing since having the boys and am thrilled to be using the fish for food while enjoying the outdoors with my family. You can always hunt for deer and other 4 legged creatures as well, provided your trained with your hunting gear.
Visit a Farm
Especially if you have kids, be sure to visit a farm. It helps them develop a sense of appreciation to see first hand just what it takes to get their food from the farm to their plates, and perhaps will inspire them to grow up to be gardeners. I know a few private farmers that are willing to do tours. You’d probably be able to come up with at least a few in your own community without too much trouble.
Switch Printer to Double Sided
This is a great idea for my house. All eight of my kids need to print this or that for college, high school, middle school and elementary school. I go through a ton of paper and ink. At least doing this would save me some paper.
How much whining will I hear? Time will tell.
Source: My personal thoughts