Day 12: Let Your Heart Be Light
The day we have been anticipating for the past month and a half has finally arrived, and I hope that you and yours are cozy and well-fed, enjoying some holiday cheer and relaxing.
My final thought about Greening up your holdiay season is to remember that less is always more. If you keep this mantra in the back of your mind, it will become easier and easier to follow. There are many approaches to celebrating the holidays without over-indulging. Eat less, use less, buy less.
You will feel healthier, more relaxed, and hopefully happier as you share the season with people you love, and prepare for the new year.
December 25, 2012
December 24, 2012
Sharing Christmas
Day 11: It's Such a Wonderful Time
If you have a need for something specific around the holidays, it is not always necessary to buy a brand new one for yourself. Especially items that are not practical for regular use. Ask a friend or neighbor who might have what you are looking for, and chances are pretty good they will be happy to lend it to you!
For example, if you are entertaining and need a coffee pot larger than what you have, ask a friend who might be attending if you could use thiers - it's likely they will not need it that night anyway. If you need an air mattress for guests crashing in your spare room, ask somebody you know will be traveling for the holidays if they have any solutions you could borrow.
In the same light, if you know of somebody in need of an item you have that you could live without for a few days, offer it to them. There is so much STUFF in this world, it's not possible that we will all use everything we have. To simplify your holiday celebrations, stay open to sharing - both giving and receiving.
If you have a need for something specific around the holidays, it is not always necessary to buy a brand new one for yourself. Especially items that are not practical for regular use. Ask a friend or neighbor who might have what you are looking for, and chances are pretty good they will be happy to lend it to you!
For example, if you are entertaining and need a coffee pot larger than what you have, ask a friend who might be attending if you could use thiers - it's likely they will not need it that night anyway. If you need an air mattress for guests crashing in your spare room, ask somebody you know will be traveling for the holidays if they have any solutions you could borrow.
In the same light, if you know of somebody in need of an item you have that you could live without for a few days, offer it to them. There is so much STUFF in this world, it's not possible that we will all use everything we have. To simplify your holiday celebrations, stay open to sharing - both giving and receiving.
December 23, 2012
For Santa's Clientele
Day 10: Making Sure that Everyone has Toys on Christmas Day
As you shop for gifts for your family, friends and colleagues, keep in mind where gifts you purchase come from, and all of the resources involved in creating the product and presenting it to your receiver. These days there are eco-friendly categories of every product. If you can, take the extra time to explore options to buy something locally, and save the carbon involved in transporting something across the country, or even overseas. Consider the packaging involved, and avoid cellophane and plastic wrap wherever you can. Make it a point to support Fair Trade vendors who apply and promote sustainable practices.
Throughout this process, you should also consider what the receiver will truly do with your gift. Will they really use it? Explore experiential gifts, like tickets to a show or event, edible gifts, or packages that will allow them to enjoy something routine more than usual, like a luxurious collection of shower and bath treats. Get creative with the joy you spread, and people will appreciate your extra thoughtfulness!
As you shop for gifts for your family, friends and colleagues, keep in mind where gifts you purchase come from, and all of the resources involved in creating the product and presenting it to your receiver. These days there are eco-friendly categories of every product. If you can, take the extra time to explore options to buy something locally, and save the carbon involved in transporting something across the country, or even overseas. Consider the packaging involved, and avoid cellophane and plastic wrap wherever you can. Make it a point to support Fair Trade vendors who apply and promote sustainable practices.
Throughout this process, you should also consider what the receiver will truly do with your gift. Will they really use it? Explore experiential gifts, like tickets to a show or event, edible gifts, or packages that will allow them to enjoy something routine more than usual, like a luxurious collection of shower and bath treats. Get creative with the joy you spread, and people will appreciate your extra thoughtfulness!
December 22, 2012
What Christmas Means to Me
Day 9: All These Things & More
Tired of the obligation to spend money on stuff that other people might or might not enjoy or appreciate? Instead of continuing to expand your carbon footprint, think about ditching the consumer-driven commercial expectations placed on Christmas, and focus on making time to enjoy traditional relationship-focused holiday celebrations.
Host a dinner party or cocktail mixer for family friends, and provide valuable time to catch up and reconnect. Set up a holiday-themed game night for your family with intangible prizes, like being able to select the menu for Christmas breakfast or getting to open their stocking first. Do something traditional to get into the spirit, like caroling door-to-door in your neighborhood or reading classic Christmas stories out loud.
Another concept that is becoming more and more popular is to host events that support a cause, like a food-drive or a local charity. In addition to raising awareness within your community, it provides friends and family with the opportunity to contribute to something truly meaningful as they share your celebration.
The season is about rekindling relationships with people who matter the most to us, and sharing our blessings with less fortunate. Making time for people to share that can be just as fulfilling as watching them open a new game or set of pajamas.
Tired of the obligation to spend money on stuff that other people might or might not enjoy or appreciate? Instead of continuing to expand your carbon footprint, think about ditching the consumer-driven commercial expectations placed on Christmas, and focus on making time to enjoy traditional relationship-focused holiday celebrations.
Host a dinner party or cocktail mixer for family friends, and provide valuable time to catch up and reconnect. Set up a holiday-themed game night for your family with intangible prizes, like being able to select the menu for Christmas breakfast or getting to open their stocking first. Do something traditional to get into the spirit, like caroling door-to-door in your neighborhood or reading classic Christmas stories out loud.
Another concept that is becoming more and more popular is to host events that support a cause, like a food-drive or a local charity. In addition to raising awareness within your community, it provides friends and family with the opportunity to contribute to something truly meaningful as they share your celebration.
The season is about rekindling relationships with people who matter the most to us, and sharing our blessings with less fortunate. Making time for people to share that can be just as fulfilling as watching them open a new game or set of pajamas.
December 21, 2012
Filled With Your Favorite Things
Day 8: Sending a Little Christmas
Exchanging gifts with friends and family across the country means that there are lots of packages being shipped and delivered each day. In this internet age, shopping online has many advantages over shopping in a brick-and-mortar retail environment. You can make online purchases 24 hours a day, and you save all the time spent driving to, parking and browsing in a store. Not to mention the benefits of avoiding the crowds out and about during December. Shopping online also allows you to quickly compare items, and select the best product for your needs at the best price.
However, shopping online only increases the amount of packages - and packaging - used to deliver purchases and gifts. If you are buying a gift to give to somebody, consider having the item shipped directly to them instead of adding the shipment to your house first. Any retail organization worth its salt will have optional gift wrapping and messaging available for you to take advantage of, and save yourself additional time and money.
When you open packages at home, don't discard the paper, bubble wrap, and insulation used to pad and protect your products. Save it for the next box you put together to ship out. Throughout the year I am constantly searching for a good box to use and appropriate packing material when I need to send something. This season provides a cache of cardboard boxes to save and access as needed, instead of recycling everything now and purchasing more materials throughout the year.
There are lots of ways to re-use packaging materials to save resources.
However, shopping online only increases the amount of packages - and packaging - used to deliver purchases and gifts. If you are buying a gift to give to somebody, consider having the item shipped directly to them instead of adding the shipment to your house first. Any retail organization worth its salt will have optional gift wrapping and messaging available for you to take advantage of, and save yourself additional time and money.
When you open packages at home, don't discard the paper, bubble wrap, and insulation used to pad and protect your products. Save it for the next box you put together to ship out. Throughout the year I am constantly searching for a good box to use and appropriate packing material when I need to send something. This season provides a cache of cardboard boxes to save and access as needed, instead of recycling everything now and purchasing more materials throughout the year.
There are lots of ways to re-use packaging materials to save resources.
December 20, 2012
A Beacon in the Night
Day 7: Harvest Your Light
Taking the dog out this morning, I noticed that several of my neighbors still had their decorations lit up. Some had the inside of their windows lit, and some braved the HOA and strung lights on the eaves of their unit. Lovely to share with the neighborhood, but why were they still on at 5:45 am? Surely not just for me and Bosco, shivering in the pre-dawn.
Save energy by using timers for any lights and displays that need to be plugged in. They are fairly inexpensive and common in most stores that carry lights and decorations. Leaving them on all night can be festive, but pick a block of time between sundown(4:30ish this time of year) and midnight that you will consistently enjoy the lights. Our timers turn on about 20 minutes before the sun sets, and go off between 11pm and midnight.
If you host an event, or have family in town the few days around the holidays, adjust as you wish. But on the second Wednesday in December, nobody should be enjoying your front yard at 3am.
Taking the dog out this morning, I noticed that several of my neighbors still had their decorations lit up. Some had the inside of their windows lit, and some braved the HOA and strung lights on the eaves of their unit. Lovely to share with the neighborhood, but why were they still on at 5:45 am? Surely not just for me and Bosco, shivering in the pre-dawn.
Save energy by using timers for any lights and displays that need to be plugged in. They are fairly inexpensive and common in most stores that carry lights and decorations. Leaving them on all night can be festive, but pick a block of time between sundown(4:30ish this time of year) and midnight that you will consistently enjoy the lights. Our timers turn on about 20 minutes before the sun sets, and go off between 11pm and midnight.
If you host an event, or have family in town the few days around the holidays, adjust as you wish. But on the second Wednesday in December, nobody should be enjoying your front yard at 3am.
December 19, 2012
Absolutely Impossible to Resist
Day 6: Some Disappear to Who Knows Where
Bake treats from scratch, instead of purchasing mass-produced preservative-laden snacks. In addition to the traditional tins of cookies and fudge, put together breakfast baskets with jams, muffin mix, and teas and coffees. Make up mason jars of home made hot chocolate mix. Share goodies that your loved ones will truly enjoy! These items seem much more thoughtful and personal than the boxes stacked near the checkout line at the grocery store.
This also provides an opportunity to get creative with the containers you use to share them with friends and family. Avoid packaging that will be thrown away, and use tins that can be re-used, or gift seal-able containers that the receiver can use year-round.
Bake treats from scratch, instead of purchasing mass-produced preservative-laden snacks. In addition to the traditional tins of cookies and fudge, put together breakfast baskets with jams, muffin mix, and teas and coffees. Make up mason jars of home made hot chocolate mix. Share goodies that your loved ones will truly enjoy! These items seem much more thoughtful and personal than the boxes stacked near the checkout line at the grocery store.
This also provides an opportunity to get creative with the containers you use to share them with friends and family. Avoid packaging that will be thrown away, and use tins that can be re-used, or gift seal-able containers that the receiver can use year-round.
December 18, 2012
In A New Old Fashioned Way
Day 5: Later We'll Have Some Pumpkin Pie
Instead of using plastic or Styrofoam during holiday cocktail parties and dinner gatherings, use real dishes, glassware, napkins and utensils. Yes, it adds to the cleanup effort, but think about how many resources go into that one use for each disposable item. Purchasing holiday-themed products also adds up, so you will also be saving money.
For kids and anybody you don't trust with your wine glasses, use paper-based plates and napkins, and corn-based cups and utensils that can be composted. These have become common enough in my corners of the world that it's not difficult to find, if you know what you are looking for. This also goes if you are serving 16, but only have service for 10 or 12 - the more the merrier, as you pass around coffee and pie!
Instead of using plastic or Styrofoam during holiday cocktail parties and dinner gatherings, use real dishes, glassware, napkins and utensils. Yes, it adds to the cleanup effort, but think about how many resources go into that one use for each disposable item. Purchasing holiday-themed products also adds up, so you will also be saving money.
For kids and anybody you don't trust with your wine glasses, use paper-based plates and napkins, and corn-based cups and utensils that can be composted. These have become common enough in my corners of the world that it's not difficult to find, if you know what you are looking for. This also goes if you are serving 16, but only have service for 10 or 12 - the more the merrier, as you pass around coffee and pie!
December 17, 2012
Brown Paper Packages
Day 4: Tied Up With String
In the US, 4 million tons of waste is generated each holiday season from gift wrapping materials that are used once and then discarded. 4 million tons!! Don't get me wrong, I love the colorful ribbons and festive paper, and the sight of a lit Christmas tree loaded with gifts is one of the most festive parts of the season. However, it is one of the most wasteful aspects of the holiday season. Here are a few ways you can reduce the amount of materials that get thrown away on December 26th.
Gift Bags: Holiday gift bags reduce the waste of wrapping a box with paper. However, this generally includes replacing the tissue paper inside the bag, and depending on the gifts inside sometimes the bags look worn out after only a few uses.
Make your own gift bags: Inspired by a quilter friend of my mom's, I started making re-usable bags out of holiday fabric. They are simple designs with draw-strings, made in various sizes to accommodate all shapes of boxes and gifts. They take significant time and energy to design and sew, but seeing them recycled among family gift exchanges is very satisfying. The holiday fabrics available are just as festive and bright as most wrapping papers, including some that incorporate foil and glitter. And using real ribbons to tie them adds to the textures beneath the tree. (I also cheat and wait until the week after Christmas to buy up holiday fabric patterns on super-sale, which makes them much more affordable!)
Furoshiki: The traditional Japanese style of wrapping a gift, enclosing it in colorful material and tying the corners together artfully.
Recycled Paper: Purchase rolls of recycled paper that can be composted or burned when its purpose has been served. Barring aggressive rips, save scraps that can be trimmed and saved inside a roll for smaller gifts next year.
Wrap a box: Find a box that has a separate lid, and wrap them each individually. This way the receiver can remove the lid and open the gift without taking the paper off, and the box can be used for another gift.
In the US, 4 million tons of waste is generated each holiday season from gift wrapping materials that are used once and then discarded. 4 million tons!! Don't get me wrong, I love the colorful ribbons and festive paper, and the sight of a lit Christmas tree loaded with gifts is one of the most festive parts of the season. However, it is one of the most wasteful aspects of the holiday season. Here are a few ways you can reduce the amount of materials that get thrown away on December 26th.
Gift Bags: Holiday gift bags reduce the waste of wrapping a box with paper. However, this generally includes replacing the tissue paper inside the bag, and depending on the gifts inside sometimes the bags look worn out after only a few uses.
Make your own gift bags: Inspired by a quilter friend of my mom's, I started making re-usable bags out of holiday fabric. They are simple designs with draw-strings, made in various sizes to accommodate all shapes of boxes and gifts. They take significant time and energy to design and sew, but seeing them recycled among family gift exchanges is very satisfying. The holiday fabrics available are just as festive and bright as most wrapping papers, including some that incorporate foil and glitter. And using real ribbons to tie them adds to the textures beneath the tree. (I also cheat and wait until the week after Christmas to buy up holiday fabric patterns on super-sale, which makes them much more affordable!)
Furoshiki: The traditional Japanese style of wrapping a gift, enclosing it in colorful material and tying the corners together artfully.
Recycled Paper: Purchase rolls of recycled paper that can be composted or burned when its purpose has been served. Barring aggressive rips, save scraps that can be trimmed and saved inside a roll for smaller gifts next year.
Wrap a box: Find a box that has a separate lid, and wrap them each individually. This way the receiver can remove the lid and open the gift without taking the paper off, and the box can be used for another gift.
December 16, 2012
'Tis the Season to be Jolly
Last night we participated in a performance by VOCO at the Chautauqua Community House. It was a delightful gust of winter songs celebrating the beauty that comes out of the dark cold nights and the warmth that is created by gathering with good friends and family. The last set was included adorning the stage and brick fireplace with fresh evergreen branches collected from the area, and it created a beautiful and serene homage to the season. I realized that sometimes the most simple additions can have the biggest impact.
Day 3: Deck the Halls
As you break out the holiday decorations, add new ones to your collection, and perhaps gift new decorations to others, keep in mind where they come from and how they were made. Avoid the cheaply-manufactured decorations that are often imported from overseas, and make your own. This presents the opportunity for some family craft time, which is especially fun with kids in the house, and also creates uniquely festive decorations for your home. You don't need kids around to help with this, though. Here are some examples of personalized decorations we have around our house this time of year:
Garlands. One of the most basic design elements, these can be strung pretty much anywhere. Trees, banisters, windows, mantles, doorways...anywhere in your house that could use some character. We have strung popcorn using a needle and thread, which gets hung outside as a snack for the birds at the end of the season. We have used paper bits to make colorful chains, some of which have included seasonal messages, religious verses, and song lyrics.
Bring the outdoors in. Branches, berries, pine cones, stones, and nuts can be used to add seasonal color. Make centerpieces out of branches nestled around candles. Fill clear vases or jars with nuts and berries to flavor a mantelpiece display. Use pine cones to add texture to your fireplace. Get creative with what you have access to in your yard, it's a much cheaper alternative to going to Walmart!
Re-purpose old decorations. Have old or maybe damaged ornaments that you don't want to hang on your tree this year? Fill a bowl with them to brighten your coffee table.
Snowflakes. Snow is a neutral motif that can carry through any celebration of this season. Select paper ranging from regular copy paper to fine glittered tissue paper, and cut out geometric patterns. These can be hung on a tree, in windows, mirrors - on any surface in the house that could support them. And like the real things, each one is completely unique!
Recycle last year's cards. We hang cards we receive each year in the living room to cherish the greetings. This year Americans will send 1.9 billion greeting cards during the month of December. This is tons(literally) of materials that will share sentimental messages and be discarded or stashed away for the next 11 months. If you have a pile of cards you have received in previous years, or if you collect cards you receive this year, you can use these bright and cheerful pieces to make colorful decorations. Ornaments, gift tags, and any craft that calls for colorful paper will easily brighten up a room.
No matter what your decorations incorporate, I hope that your home is merry and bright this time of year!
Day 3: Deck the Halls
As you break out the holiday decorations, add new ones to your collection, and perhaps gift new decorations to others, keep in mind where they come from and how they were made. Avoid the cheaply-manufactured decorations that are often imported from overseas, and make your own. This presents the opportunity for some family craft time, which is especially fun with kids in the house, and also creates uniquely festive decorations for your home. You don't need kids around to help with this, though. Here are some examples of personalized decorations we have around our house this time of year:
Garlands. One of the most basic design elements, these can be strung pretty much anywhere. Trees, banisters, windows, mantles, doorways...anywhere in your house that could use some character. We have strung popcorn using a needle and thread, which gets hung outside as a snack for the birds at the end of the season. We have used paper bits to make colorful chains, some of which have included seasonal messages, religious verses, and song lyrics.
Bring the outdoors in. Branches, berries, pine cones, stones, and nuts can be used to add seasonal color. Make centerpieces out of branches nestled around candles. Fill clear vases or jars with nuts and berries to flavor a mantelpiece display. Use pine cones to add texture to your fireplace. Get creative with what you have access to in your yard, it's a much cheaper alternative to going to Walmart!
Re-purpose old decorations. Have old or maybe damaged ornaments that you don't want to hang on your tree this year? Fill a bowl with them to brighten your coffee table.
Snowflakes. Snow is a neutral motif that can carry through any celebration of this season. Select paper ranging from regular copy paper to fine glittered tissue paper, and cut out geometric patterns. These can be hung on a tree, in windows, mirrors - on any surface in the house that could support them. And like the real things, each one is completely unique!
Recycle last year's cards. We hang cards we receive each year in the living room to cherish the greetings. This year Americans will send 1.9 billion greeting cards during the month of December. This is tons(literally) of materials that will share sentimental messages and be discarded or stashed away for the next 11 months. If you have a pile of cards you have received in previous years, or if you collect cards you receive this year, you can use these bright and cheerful pieces to make colorful decorations. Ornaments, gift tags, and any craft that calls for colorful paper will easily brighten up a room.
No matter what your decorations incorporate, I hope that your home is merry and bright this time of year!
December 15, 2012
Keep Shining On
The lights and yard displays that go up this time of the year brighten up the season for me, especially when it snows and the whole world takes on a bit of a glow. That brilliant holiday sparkle can be made by more efficient lights these days, using LED strings.
Day 2: Oh Christmas Lights
Choose LEDs (light-emitting diodes) instead of incandescent bulbs to decorate your home, inside and out. They're a bit more expensive, but last much longer and use 80% to 90% less power than conventional mini bulbs. Saving on energy consumption also means you save on maintenance, with LED strands lasting up to ten times longer than conventional stings. This is also because LEDs do not produce heat, so they won't singe fingers — or the tree. They are safer overall than incandescent bulbs.
LED strands come in a bright white, as well as many color choices, color changing bulbs, and color combinations. Some local organizations have sponsored programs in past years to accept old strings of lights and help you update to LED strings. Take advantage of these opportunities when they are available in your neighborhood. If you invest in new lights to adorn your eaves this year, I recommend spending the additional money on LED strands and we will all save in the long-run.
Day 2: Oh Christmas Lights
Choose LEDs (light-emitting diodes) instead of incandescent bulbs to decorate your home, inside and out. They're a bit more expensive, but last much longer and use 80% to 90% less power than conventional mini bulbs. Saving on energy consumption also means you save on maintenance, with LED strands lasting up to ten times longer than conventional stings. This is also because LEDs do not produce heat, so they won't singe fingers — or the tree. They are safer overall than incandescent bulbs.
LED strands come in a bright white, as well as many color choices, color changing bulbs, and color combinations. Some local organizations have sponsored programs in past years to accept old strings of lights and help you update to LED strings. Take advantage of these opportunities when they are available in your neighborhood. If you invest in new lights to adorn your eaves this year, I recommend spending the additional money on LED strands and we will all save in the long-run.
December 14, 2012
A Symbol of Goodwill and Love
Over the past few years I have integrated several habits into my holiday traditions in attempts to reduce some of the waste and excess that is inherent to celebrations this time of year. I know that traditionally the 12 Days of Christmas begins on Christmas Day and is celebrated through Epiphany, but this year I want to share with you some of the ways that I have tried to make my Christmases a little more Green.
On the first day: O Tannenbaum!
One of the most iconic elements of Christmas for me is a decorated tree that becomes the focal point of the living room. Decorating it has always been a special occasion, for several reasons. First of all, it is something that happens at the beginning of the season, in preparation for all of the celebrating. In addition to kicking off my seasonal decorating blitz(usually accompanied by breaking out the Christmas CD's), it also involves unwrapping the lovely collection of ornaments I have amassed, which includes one Mom helped us pick out every year of our childhood. Each one has a memory associated with it, and hanging them all together creates a splendid, shimmering Christmas tradition.
Most of my life we have picked out a cut tree from a lot, varying in size from trees short enough we could top it ourselves to a gorgeous 14-ft tree Dad had to dangle over the halfwall of the second story to top with the star. I love the fresh pine smell, the character each branch has, and the challenge of evenly spacing the lights and ornaments. However, I am not a fan of the need to vacuum little needles on a daily basis, the water that needs to be constantly maintained, or the sad disposal of the tree at the end of the month.
When we got married and began to alternate Christmases with both families, it meant we would be out of town for several days over Christmas every other year. We decided to use a synthetic tree on the years we wouldn't be celebrating at home. Then we adopted Bosco, which complicated the water issue even further(not to mention my coveted popcorn garlands!), and each time we contemplated buying a fresh tree for the season I have been more and more consumed by a feeling of guilt about cutting down a perfectly good conifer to abide in my home for a month. It seems sacrificial to end all of the years that have been put into that tree just for a short period of indulgent enjoyment. Needless to say, we have been erecting our (pre-lit!)artificial tree for the past several years, which has saved time, money, trees, and quite a bit of mess. It's not quite the same, and is made out of non-renewable petroleum resources, but I know that it's a more sustainable long-term solution for us.
In addition to artificial trees, it is becoming a more available option to purchase a living Christmas tree. This means you get to enjoy a live tree(potted, with roots and soil) that you can plant after its stint decorating your house. This option is significantly more expensive and takes some very intentional preparation, but the investment supports a local nursery or farm, and provides a significant contribution to your landscaping after the holidays are over. When we have a yard where we could plant and nurture a live pine tree, I fully intend to pursue this option.
If you do have a cut tree this year, check out your municipal resources for composting or chipping the tree into mulch. Many cities and towns offer a day in January when trees can be collected from your curb for free and used in local landscaping projects. But please consider these alternatives to buying a cheap cut tree from a big-box lot. It will support your environment and add some local Green to your holiday and beyond.
On the first day: O Tannenbaum!
One of the most iconic elements of Christmas for me is a decorated tree that becomes the focal point of the living room. Decorating it has always been a special occasion, for several reasons. First of all, it is something that happens at the beginning of the season, in preparation for all of the celebrating. In addition to kicking off my seasonal decorating blitz(usually accompanied by breaking out the Christmas CD's), it also involves unwrapping the lovely collection of ornaments I have amassed, which includes one Mom helped us pick out every year of our childhood. Each one has a memory associated with it, and hanging them all together creates a splendid, shimmering Christmas tradition.
Most of my life we have picked out a cut tree from a lot, varying in size from trees short enough we could top it ourselves to a gorgeous 14-ft tree Dad had to dangle over the halfwall of the second story to top with the star. I love the fresh pine smell, the character each branch has, and the challenge of evenly spacing the lights and ornaments. However, I am not a fan of the need to vacuum little needles on a daily basis, the water that needs to be constantly maintained, or the sad disposal of the tree at the end of the month.
When we got married and began to alternate Christmases with both families, it meant we would be out of town for several days over Christmas every other year. We decided to use a synthetic tree on the years we wouldn't be celebrating at home. Then we adopted Bosco, which complicated the water issue even further(not to mention my coveted popcorn garlands!), and each time we contemplated buying a fresh tree for the season I have been more and more consumed by a feeling of guilt about cutting down a perfectly good conifer to abide in my home for a month. It seems sacrificial to end all of the years that have been put into that tree just for a short period of indulgent enjoyment. Needless to say, we have been erecting our (pre-lit!)artificial tree for the past several years, which has saved time, money, trees, and quite a bit of mess. It's not quite the same, and is made out of non-renewable petroleum resources, but I know that it's a more sustainable long-term solution for us.
In addition to artificial trees, it is becoming a more available option to purchase a living Christmas tree. This means you get to enjoy a live tree(potted, with roots and soil) that you can plant after its stint decorating your house. This option is significantly more expensive and takes some very intentional preparation, but the investment supports a local nursery or farm, and provides a significant contribution to your landscaping after the holidays are over. When we have a yard where we could plant and nurture a live pine tree, I fully intend to pursue this option.
If you do have a cut tree this year, check out your municipal resources for composting or chipping the tree into mulch. Many cities and towns offer a day in January when trees can be collected from your curb for free and used in local landscaping projects. But please consider these alternatives to buying a cheap cut tree from a big-box lot. It will support your environment and add some local Green to your holiday and beyond.
November 6, 2012
Disappointment Has a Name: Heartbreak
Last week was really, really crummy. Nothing in particular went wrong, but every aspect of my life seemed to present a particularly challenging frustration simultaneously. Work, the house, companions receiving painful health prognoses, and I was fighting a cold which meant that processing everything took extra brain power and energy I didn't really have.
The roller coaster of life just took a rough turn. I know well enough to hang on and let the bad days pass, and wait for the next rush of positive energy to come along. However, these are the times in life when we learn who we can lean on, and I found myself rather alone.
I spent some time on a ride up to Estes Park with a fellow soprano who also had a rough week. We share two friends struggling with cancer, so we were able to process some of that grief together. There are also completely different issues each of us is facing that have made us both question how other people see us and relate to us. We talked a lot about this, and how to stay true to ourselves while being aware of how that affects others around us. It's a hard reality to face when you realize that the way you see yourself and your intentions is not received by people you interact with.
I feel that I have a solid base of support from my family, but from a few individuals who I thought of as friends I got very surprising reactions. I generally have good intentions, but during the times when I am not strong enough or put-together enough to carry through with them, I struggle to meet the expectations others place on me. It's hard to think that when I am not working to be perceived as a positive person who cares about those around me, I appear to not care about anything but myself, and in turn end up battling the world on my own.
Heading into the Thanksgiving holiday I need to focus on letting go of the things that are bringing me down, and try to avoid any behaviors that others see as selfish and mean-spirited.
The roller coaster of life just took a rough turn. I know well enough to hang on and let the bad days pass, and wait for the next rush of positive energy to come along. However, these are the times in life when we learn who we can lean on, and I found myself rather alone.
I spent some time on a ride up to Estes Park with a fellow soprano who also had a rough week. We share two friends struggling with cancer, so we were able to process some of that grief together. There are also completely different issues each of us is facing that have made us both question how other people see us and relate to us. We talked a lot about this, and how to stay true to ourselves while being aware of how that affects others around us. It's a hard reality to face when you realize that the way you see yourself and your intentions is not received by people you interact with.
I feel that I have a solid base of support from my family, but from a few individuals who I thought of as friends I got very surprising reactions. I generally have good intentions, but during the times when I am not strong enough or put-together enough to carry through with them, I struggle to meet the expectations others place on me. It's hard to think that when I am not working to be perceived as a positive person who cares about those around me, I appear to not care about anything but myself, and in turn end up battling the world on my own.
Heading into the Thanksgiving holiday I need to focus on letting go of the things that are bringing me down, and try to avoid any behaviors that others see as selfish and mean-spirited.
October 5, 2012
A Time to Plant and a Time to Harvest
It came earlier this year than it has in a while. Today is one of my favorite days of the year, and simultaneously one of my least favorite. The First Snow!
I like seasons, and I love changing seasons. The past few weeks have been lovely here in Colorado, but I am not lamenting the coming winter cold as much as I could. I love snow, and the magic that comes with the shimmering crystals and cold air. And it is the season for Halloween decorations, which have a much spookier impact on a dark, cold, stormy night.
However, it means consciously pulling the plug on my vegetables and flowers. Acknowledging the end of the colorful fruit and leaves, and laying to rest the plants I have been sustaining every day for the past several months.
When my alarm went off this morning, there was barely light in the sky. Looking out onto the patio, there was a dusting of white on the grill and the fence. I did not need the snooze button! I bundled up and went out to brush off the plants, trying to decide how quickly they needed to be moved into the garage. Today should be in the 40's, but tonight and through the weekend are forecast to be icky and freezing. I decided not to waste any time fretting about it(for once), and bite the bullet. I moved most of my potted plants from the patio around into the garage, except for the flower planters which I snuggled up next to the front door. Hopefully the dose of sunshine every morning will keep them happy for a little while longer.
We still have beautiful ripening cherry tomatoes - the plant is still producing flowers! The peppers are in an odd state of green to red transition, and I have been coaxing the tomatillos so gently all summer that I am not convinced any of the husks really have anything substantial in them. The basil will be laid out to dry this weekend, and the herbs will hunker down for the winter. We will harvest the beets and use the greens in a comforting concoction this weekend, but the okra and chard might have to be sacrificed.
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.
July 17, 2012
Let Us Float Down the River
Last week was one of the most amazing performance experiences I have ever had. Sound Circle was invited to offer two of the shows we have put together over the past four years (since the last GALA Festival in Miami), and we contributed to two other collaborative efforts.
This past year has been a very long and sometimes arduous experience for me, because I had to independently learn repertoire that the group had been performing for years together. But every second of the time and energy expended was more than worth it!
It was a week surrounded by so much love and acceptance and appreciation, that I literally had to re-integrate into the real world when my time there was over and I had to go back to work. One of the evenings we performed to a general admission audience at the Temple Buell Theater in the Denver Performing Arts Complex, and a half hour before the show, the Buell was full. They scrambled to put together a simulcast next door at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, which was full a half hour after the show started! That's definitely the largest audience I have ever performed in front of, and it was exhilarating. Music has always had a huge impact on my heart, and has profoundly influenced the way that I process the world around me. I very much enjoyed experiencing and sharing that with so many people who appreciate the same things, and have their own processes to share.
Our Path of Beauty concert was very well received. Chris' Grand Canyon photographs were projected in hi-def against an enormous screen the entire length of the Buell stage, which was quite a feat to tech, but breathtaking from the balconies. The reactions from the audience were so moving, with one lady apologizing for her lack of articulation because she "Had not yet returned from the amazing place we took her to."
After spending at least three days a week with the group over the past few months, it is going to be weird to not see them until the end of September. I need a break and will definitely enjoy having more free time, but I will look forward to the start of a fresh season in the fall.
January 14, 2012
I Once Was Blind
I have officially joined the ranks of glasses wearers. I have noticed myself squinting at signs and screens and things not-too-far-away that just seemed blury. So, especially in light of my new industry, I decided to get that regular eye exam a couple of months early.
My eyes are healthy, but I have developed a hint of an astigmatism. That means that when I look at things, my vertical and horizontal focal points don't match up quite in the center of my eye, and the farther away something is the wider apart those points get. Hence the difficulty reading signs running through the airport and while driving at night.
Ho. Ly. Cow. I had no idea how much I couldn't see! It's been less than 2 years since my last exam, but the changes that have developed are pretty dramatic. Dr. Adler fit me with a new prescription, and I can see things I never knew I couldn't see! It's not as dramatic a transformation as some friends I know, who talk about getting glasses when they were younger and realizing that trees have several individual leaves instead of one big connected mass. But now I can read the score on the bottom of the tv screen from all the way in the kitchen - without squinting or wondering what my husband is going on about! Lights outside at night don't have weird halos anymore, they are crystal clear. Also, I can read what's on tap without having to cross the room and stare at the draught labels up close. It's amazing!
In all seriousness, when was the last time you visited your local OD? I am a huge proponent of preventative health care and generally don't mess around with regular check-ups. But to have noticed such a big change in less than two years really surprised me. I highly encourage you to stop procrastinating and schedule an exam!
As a soap box side note, the past six months have taught me that there is a huge difference between the quality of care you receive in a franchised retail outlet and a professional independent ECP's office. I know I am biased because I work with these doctors every day, but please - for the sake of your eye health - DON'T WASTE MONEY AT A LENS CRAFTER'S, PEARLE VISION, OR AN OPTICAL OFFICE IN THE CORNER OF A BIG BOX STORE. Find a local eye doctor who is a part of the community, has quality equipment and a personal interest in making sure your eyes are healthy. They might be a bit more expensive because they have higher overhead costs, but the end result will be a relationship with somebody who cares about the continued support of your vision, and savings long-term because they provide and support quality care and eyewear that is sustainable.
Trust me, it is well worth the investment!
My eyes are healthy, but I have developed a hint of an astigmatism. That means that when I look at things, my vertical and horizontal focal points don't match up quite in the center of my eye, and the farther away something is the wider apart those points get. Hence the difficulty reading signs running through the airport and while driving at night.
Ho. Ly. Cow. I had no idea how much I couldn't see! It's been less than 2 years since my last exam, but the changes that have developed are pretty dramatic. Dr. Adler fit me with a new prescription, and I can see things I never knew I couldn't see! It's not as dramatic a transformation as some friends I know, who talk about getting glasses when they were younger and realizing that trees have several individual leaves instead of one big connected mass. But now I can read the score on the bottom of the tv screen from all the way in the kitchen - without squinting or wondering what my husband is going on about! Lights outside at night don't have weird halos anymore, they are crystal clear. Also, I can read what's on tap without having to cross the room and stare at the draught labels up close. It's amazing!
In all seriousness, when was the last time you visited your local OD? I am a huge proponent of preventative health care and generally don't mess around with regular check-ups. But to have noticed such a big change in less than two years really surprised me. I highly encourage you to stop procrastinating and schedule an exam!
As a soap box side note, the past six months have taught me that there is a huge difference between the quality of care you receive in a franchised retail outlet and a professional independent ECP's office. I know I am biased because I work with these doctors every day, but please - for the sake of your eye health - DON'T WASTE MONEY AT A LENS CRAFTER'S, PEARLE VISION, OR AN OPTICAL OFFICE IN THE CORNER OF A BIG BOX STORE. Find a local eye doctor who is a part of the community, has quality equipment and a personal interest in making sure your eyes are healthy. They might be a bit more expensive because they have higher overhead costs, but the end result will be a relationship with somebody who cares about the continued support of your vision, and savings long-term because they provide and support quality care and eyewear that is sustainable.
Trust me, it is well worth the investment!
January 8, 2012
In the Bleak Midwinter
I love January. I love the holidays, and all of the music and lights and social obligations that go along with them, but there is a meditative calm after the storm that I have developed a deep appreciation for.
I love the freshness of a new calendar, with it's blank pages and it's motivation to stay more organized. I love the vibes in the house after the pretty holiday clutter gets boxed up again and everything gets cleaned off. I love the hearty soups and winter veggies that take over the kitchen, after eating or purging feast leftovers and heavy Christmas sweets.
I love my updated address book and my renewed commitment to try and keep in touch with friends and family after exchanging holiday greetings and catching up at the end of the year. It is also a relief to return to some semblance of a routine that supports healthy habits and clothes that don't fit quite so snugly.
Happy 2012, wherever you may be. I hope it brings you peace, good health, and lots of happy memories!
I love the freshness of a new calendar, with it's blank pages and it's motivation to stay more organized. I love the vibes in the house after the pretty holiday clutter gets boxed up again and everything gets cleaned off. I love the hearty soups and winter veggies that take over the kitchen, after eating or purging feast leftovers and heavy Christmas sweets.
I love my updated address book and my renewed commitment to try and keep in touch with friends and family after exchanging holiday greetings and catching up at the end of the year. It is also a relief to return to some semblance of a routine that supports healthy habits and clothes that don't fit quite so snugly.
Happy 2012, wherever you may be. I hope it brings you peace, good health, and lots of happy memories!
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