November: Go Green Ideas

I have had the book, Eco-Friendly Families by Helen Coronato for awhile now. I pick it up periodically and relook at it. The book is brilliant. It has simple ways to move toward a greener life style that involve the entire family. Activities are for any age from toddler to teen to grandma and grandpa.

One section of the book suggest 4 eco-friendly ideas for each of the months. The book is also filled to the brim with tons of 5 minute makeovers. Below you will find and edited version of the ideas for November:

1. Have your children create an natural centerpiece for you table to be used through out the month or specifically for Thanksgiving.Have the children collect rocks, twigs, acorns, etc. and arrange them in the bottom of an aluminum baking tin. The tin can be reused or... You can have your children collect various items every season to update your table centerpiece.
2. Recycle a "special plate" from a garage sale, family member, etc. Select a family member to be the "guest of honor" for the evening meal. During the meal, the guest of honor may share about things happening in his/her life. Also, each family member must state something amazing, kind, or thoughtful about this person. The guest of honor will select a new family member to take their place for the next night's dinner. Continue until all members of your family have shared in the fun. Consider doing this once a month or so to let you family know how important they are and to share about life happenings. In today's busy world, we often forget to tell the ones we love how much they mean to us. We assume they know. Children and adults both need to be reminded every now and then.
3. When out and about "TAKE FIVE". 1. Slow down and smile. 2. Remember to use your manners and model good etiquette. 3. Pack your purse or travel bag the night before an excursion. 4. Make a to-do-list and mark your top three priorities. 5. Park in a central location and walk to and from various stores or sites.
4. Take a homemade simmer in place if using candles and store bought air fresheners. Start with a base of water and fresh citrus fruit. Add other ingredients from there. Consider cinnamon sticks, cloves, apple cider, essential oils, etc.