Accumulation

The Winter season has arrived in Michigan. It took its time this year, with the first snow not on the ground until December 1st. Which, I suppose, is my excuse as to why I wasn't prepared with snow things for Tucker. Apparently boots, snow-pants, and winter coats don't just arrive on the doorstep with the first flakes.

After one morning of literal kicking and screaming, I cashed in some credit card rewards and ran off to Land's End to order new boots and coat. After plopping down over $74 for a new child-size coat and boots (with 40% off coupon AND free shipping), I came to my senses and went in search of a better way.

Two thrift stores later, I knew I had found it. My thrift store total for...

2 coats

2 pairs of snow-pants

1 pair of boots

= $55.

I am a lucky girl to have several consignment shops in the area. But if your life is lacking in resale, you might want to do a check of your local Good Will and Salvation Army if you haven't in a while. I was in our Salvation Army the other day and could not believe the selection. If these aren't even options, remember there are always online options like Ebay and I Like it Mama.

Happy Winter!

Raising Responsibility

Have you heard the news? Apparently Kidergartners are responsible. At least that's what the handmade book my oldest son, Tucker, brought home from class today said. The book went on to show pictures the kids had drawn of themselves demonstrating their responsibility along with their attempt at writing a sentence about it, followed by the teacher's translation.

It is a truly endearing book. Most kids are responsible for feeding pets. One is responsible for rolling in a ball...not sure what that is but it sounds like it could be fun. Oh, to be the kid who is responsible for playing outside on the playground! Where did those days go? I am sure you are dying by now to know what Tucker is responsible for....



In case you can't read it, Tucker is responsible for picking up the recycling. What this really means is, I ask him to take the art papers he has strewn about the house and place them in the recycling bin...but the point is...RECYCLING!?! My son is responsible for RECYCLING! Can you tell I wish I lived in a more mountainous area so I might have a place to shout this from.

I know the fight for a better planet seems long and overwhelming and we often wonder why we do keep on keeping on. Today I was reminded. This is why we do it. Because kids are listening and watching and the planet is theirs next. It is our job not only to take care of it for them, but teach them how to take care of it themselves.

A Happy Return!

I am back, and boy did I miss all of you!

Now I realize you may be sitting there thinking, "Great, and who are you again." I don't blame you. Here is the brief refresher....

Nearly 2 years ago I started Green Gracious with the goal to share my journey to a more sustainable life with others and support one another along the way.

Almost a year ago, I disconnected in the hopes of slowing down and refocusing. The experiment was a success and I found focus and understanding I have never known.

Now I am feeling drawn back to all of you and this world where we can share, and grow, and create a better place to be together.

I hope to re-explore a place where we can share all of our shades of green, our ideas, our discoveries, and our stories with one another to grow and change and make a difference. I am back, continuing the Green Gracious journey and I hope that you will join me again and invite others along as well.