Reflections

Around two or so years ago, I made a decision to start living more green. You hear so much about it, its the "thing" to do nowadays. I didn't base my decision on this. I did it for my family, and because in a lot of ways, it is cheaper. I didn't go all hardcore with it, I made small changes. I just wanted to make my home healthier by reducing our chemical use and growing some of our own food.

Things that worked:

I reduced our use of paper towels by using washcloths, I didn't eliminate them completely, but we don't go through them as fast now.

I use LOTS of white vinegar. I use it for almost everything, even as laundry softener, I haven't bought a cleaning chemical other than carpet cleaner (once-darn cat!) for almost two years now. My husband still sneaks in cleaning wipes, and uses them, but I always wipe away the residue if he uses them in the kitchen. I just don't want it on surfaces that food touches.

I make my own laundry detergent, and it has saved me tons of $$$! I can make 5 gallons at a time for less than $2.


Things that didn't:

I made my own shampoo. seemed ok at first, but not great, and seemed to dry out my hair. I now use a sulfate free brand and am happy.

I tried collecting recyclables, but there is no pickup and no where to take them that is close, so they are sitting in my garage.

I tried to make my own dishwasher detergent. I hated it. I cleaned ok, but left a horrible film on everything. I compromised and get the eco brands now.


Work in progress:

My vermicomposting (worm bin) I've lost some worms, but they seem to be chomping along. I just have to wait for results, and I recently moves it to the kitchen, so it will be easier for me to remember to use it.

My garden, I've had container gardens and a small raised bed since we've lived here, but I am trying to expand. I've had mixed results with the containers, same plant in the same pot too many times, they dry out REALLY quick in the heat... anyway, I am trying to make more raised beds.

My chickens, I would list them under things that worked, but they are still a work in progress. I LOVE them and will post more about them later.


Things I would like to try:

A real compost bin. I have a pile of stuff in the hold next to the driveway, but never turn it, or use it. I would like to make a real compost bin or pile.

I want to grow my own potatoes.

I want to try to raise some quail. For fun, at first. I think having tiny eggs would be fun for the kids, and if I do well, I could get a few more to raise for meat.


What have you tried? Did it work? or are you still working on it? What would you like to try?