Category: Green Living

Light Switch Dilemma

Q: Doesn’t it use more electricity to turn the lights off and on than to leave them on? A: This is one of those urban myths that seems to persist, despite evidence proving the opposite…Bottom line: No. Turn off the lights whenever you leave the room. Often we get up to go to the bathroom… Continue reading Light Switch Dilemma

Hands and Feet

James 2:16b (English Standard Version): One of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? My son does not like to have his arms constrained. When he was born, somehow the nurses were able to swaddle him and keep… Continue reading Hands and Feet

How to Eco-Entertain Guests

Q. How Can I go green while entertaining? A. It’s really easy, and can be much less expensive, to entertain in an eco-friendly way. Here’s just a few green entertaining ideas for your next get together: Use your own dishes and glasses instead of buying disposable products. Mix and match your patterns to create an… Continue reading How to Eco-Entertain Guests

Basics about Composting

Q: What do I need to know about composting? A: Composting doesn’t need to be complicated. Place a pitcher or covered container by the kitchen sink to collect your food scraps. Then start a compost pile outside. Turn it over every now and then. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it turns into free fertilizer,… Continue reading Basics about Composting

Shopping Consignment

I love consignments. I began shopping at a consignment store a few years ago when needing some clothes for a fancy wedding rehearsal and ceremony. I began doing the majority of my shopping there. Later, I shopped there for environmental reasons–reusing existing clothes consumes far less resources than the production, shipping, and marketing of new… Continue reading Shopping Consignment

Warming up your car

Q: It’s getting very cold outside.  Do I need to warm up my car before driving it?   A: On very rare occasions, like when your car is encased in ice, your car needs to be warmed up. Even when we lived in northern New England, we almost never needed to warm our car. If… Continue reading Warming up your car

Green Gift Giving Ideas

Q:  What are some green gift giving ideas? A:  Green gift giving is a great idea to spread the word of how easy and fun it is to go green. Keep in mind, though, that not all of your recipients might be as “green” as you are and as receptive to eco-friendly products and ideas.… Continue reading Green Gift Giving Ideas

What type of Christmas tree is greener?

Q:  Which kind of Christmas tree is more eco-friendly, a real one or an artificial tree? A:  Many people go “green” during the holidays by adding a Christmas tree to their decor. The most eco-friendly option, however, depends on your personal situation. Real Christmas trees grow for several years before being cut down, helping to reduce… Continue reading What type of Christmas tree is greener?

Getting a new heating and cooling system?

Q: When should I consider replacing the heating and cooling system in my home? A: If your furnace is over 20 years old, it would be a good investment to replace it with a high-efficiency model. New models can be over 90% efficient. Replace your filter every three months.

Showers vs. Baths

Q: Which uses less water and energy: showering or taking a bath? A: In general, baths use three-times more water than showers. If you do take a bath, consider re-using the bath water in your garden or on indoor plants.   If you have little kids, have them bathe together or use the same water… Continue reading Showers vs. Baths

Setting Up a Green Nursery

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. – Acts 4:32 My husband and I met through church (and my parents!) more than a decade ago. Ryan was serving as a youth pastor at my parent’s church,… Continue reading Setting Up a Green Nursery