Earth Day 2009

George Harrison wrote those words in the song Give Me Love in 1973 for his solo album Living in the Material World.

With that in mind, Wednesday, April 22 is Earth Day and Friday, April 24 is Arbor Day. Revel in the beauty of our world by getting outside (weather permitting) and spend some time with our Mother Nature. Below is an Earth Day list of ideas.

Planting

Reuse those leftover egg cartons from Easter. Place some soil in each slot along with your seed of choice and add a little water. Some seeds that sprout quickly and grow easily are green beans and radishes. You could even use grass seed.

Reuse

Many items that would otherwise get tossed in a landfill can be reused. For example, taking old clothing, toys, shoes, etc. to the Lighthouse or Salvation Army is a good way for someone else to enjoy them and it eliminates waste.

Reuse plastic bags at home for small trash cans, cat litter boxes, packing for items to be shipped, in place of tissue paper in gifts, or use as storage for seasonal/holiday items. Contact the Lighthouse, food pantry or any local church to see if they are in need of plastic bags. Wal-Mart has a recycle box for plastic bags. You can also reuse plastic bags in your crafts. Make a pillow and stuff with plastic bags.

You can take old, cracked cds and dvds and create wind chimes. Use fishing string and glue or tape to connect the printed sides of the discs. Use fishing string to hang the discs and small bells.

Reuse old tires as a tire swing, garden decor or take them to be shredded for use under play equipment in your yard.

Recycle

Many people may not know the whereabouts of the Recycling Center in Marshall. It does exist, I promise. The address is 765 W. North, located by the power plant. You can take your plastics, aluminum, paper, tin and even electronics.

Compost

A compost pile makes for great garden soil. Designate an area of your yard for your compost pile. Green leaves, coffee grounds, plant trimmings, fresh grass clippings, raw fruit and vegetable scraps, dried grasses, straw, woodchips, twigs, branches, sawdust, shredded newspaper, corncobs and cornstalks are great for your pile. Your compost should be turned every couple weeks to allow air for decomposition.

If you have any Earth Day traditions with your friends and family, please do tell.

Also, if you know of any other uses for items around your house or places in need of certain objects, please share.

I hope to take lots of pictures of my Earth Day outing and will post a small slideshow.

Love your Mother Earth and enjoy the day!