Going "Green"

We have been making an effort to go "green" at our house.  We have always recycled but are excited about new ways of helping the environment.  We are planning not to use pesticides on our weeds and plants this year.  It will mean more work in the garden for us (more achy legs) but we will see more butterflies and bees (getting a little worried about those honey makers..) and not have to worry about chemicals on our fruits and veggies.  

    I am also starting to purchase "green" cleaners.  I'm anxious to see how effective they are...  (If you feel like splurging, Lavender Pine cleaner by Caldrea smells AMAZING!)  I clipped an article out of "Life: Beautiful" on cleaning with household items such as baking soda, white vinegar, and lemons.  I am going to try cleaning this way, also, and compare the results.  I love the idea of using a mixture of white vinegar and water to clean- so simple!  And the smell disappears after the mixture dries.:-)

   Don't forget to use the other side of your printer paper.  I can't imagine how much paper has been wasted over the years by people just using one side.  With home schooling I make lots of copies, but I now use the back of the papers that I don't need.  Then, if I can, I shred them and

use them for mailing packages.  Colored paper looks so festive!

   Paper towel rolls, egg cartons, etc. are also great for crafts.  Keep a few on hand for a rainy day!  You can get great craft ideas on the internet!:-)  Have fun using these ideas in your home.  As Martha Stewart would say, "It's a good thing."