Have you been thinking about "going green" at home? Perhaps you've been inspired by a friend or colleague who has made the decision. The whole idea can sound overwhelming. Here are a few easy tips to get started. Start by seeing the idea not so much as sacrificing, but making a lifestyle decision that you approach a bit at a time. Saving green is another reason to "go green".
1. Take off your shoes at the door, which cuts down on pollutants and dirt you bring into the house.
2. Use a water filter at the tap for drinking and cooking.
3. Take shorter showers to reduce water use.
4. Install low-flow showerheads.
5.Plant drought-tolerant native plants in your garden.
6. Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few higher in the summer.
7. Change to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).
8. Unplug appliances or use "smart" power strips.
9. Wash clothes in cold water when possible.
10. Use a drying rack or clothesline to save energy.
11. Walk or bike to work or the store when possible.
12. Consider telecommuting or move closer to work.
13. Add one less meatless meal per week to your meal plan.
14. Buy locally raised, organic whenever possible.
15. Consider finding new or gently used secondhand products.
16. Use the local library more often.
17. Share tools from friends and neighbors.
18. Buy in bulk.
19. Wear clothes that don't have to be dry-cleaned and consider more natural fibers like cotton and wool.
20. Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products.
21. Donate and recycle old cell phones, appliances, etc.
22. Make your own non-toxic cleaning aids.
23. Avoid perfume or fragrance products.
Cheryl Larson says that being organized is a way of life for her, not an acquired skill. She is the owner of Cheryl's Organizing Concepts and together with her team of organizers handle all aspects of home and small business organization, including paperwork management and senior move management. She can be reached at: www.CherylsOrganizing.com 
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