Following my comments about joining the children at they lead the way toward change (Earth Day!), I wanted to share some of our thoughts. We have made a list of things we can change or do better, and the boys are definitely the ones holding me and our family accountable. We have embarked on our challenge, and are making changes. We may not halt global warming, or save endangered species this week or next, but it is a start. And the ripples are spreading… I hear them talk to their friends, and educate their guests (sometimes in less than subtle or polite ways). And I know that they are thinking and making connections. They have figured out that carpooling is better for the planet, and suddenly it is cool to get a ride home with someone, rather than disappointing that I didn’t make it to school. They are going to amaze us with their insights, ideas, and new ways of doing everyday things. I can’t wait to see what they come up with!

In the meantime, here is our humble start. Please let us know what else you are working on, and let’s keep building our list and sharing our ideas. Together, the little people CAN save the earth!

1. Separate waste at home into recycling and compost bins and only put what’s left into the trash.
2. Turn off all the lights when you leave a room. Remember to turn off TVs and computers when you are not using them.
3. Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth. 
4. Use a reusable water bottle instead of plastic ones that you throw away.
5. Stop using plastic straws for drinks. Instead bring along reusable ones, or just go without. Ask restaurants not to bring any straws to your table.
6. Use a reusable cup or flask for visits to coffee shops or ask for a mug instead of a paper cup that you throw away.
7. Pick up ten pieces of trash in your neighborhood. Can you do this every time you go to the park?
8. Walk or ride your bike instead of taking a bus or car. Maybe once a week?
9. Take reusable bags to the grocery store.
10. Use both side of a piece of paper before recycling it. Saving paper saves trees and trees help the earth breathe.
11. Use a cloth towel to dry your hands in the kitchen instead of paper towels. Also, you can use cloth napkins at the table instead of paper.
12. Take a shower instead of a bath once a week, or run less water into the bath. Maybe share the water with your brother; bath together or take turns…
13. Don’t flush the toilet more than you need to. Every flush uses lots of water.
14. Don’t let your balloons fly away, or maybe don’t have balloons at your parties. They get into all kinds of places and get eaten by animals…
15. Use reusable sandwich bags instead of plastic baggies that you throw away.
16. Don’t put your produce in plastic bags at the store – they can travel home loose and get put away straight from the shopping bag and you save on more plastic in the trash!
17. Plant trees. They help clean the air, they are homes for many creatures; and they are beautiful to look at and shady to sit under!
18. Go for a hike and spend time in nature.