10 Ways Minnesotans Celebrate Earth Day

Today is EARTH DAY. I feel like EARTH DAY deserves to be in all capital letters.

Since the latest study shows that our poor earth's climate change is 99.99 % due to humans, I think we all owe her just a little bit of our undivided attention.

So...how do we celebrate mother earth and let her know we really do appreciate her? Here are 10 ways us Minnesotans can celebrate our planet.

1. KEEP THE CAR/TRUCK IN THE GARAGE

It might be raining...but you could still take the bus, grab an umbrella and raincoat and go for a walk...or take a rain check and ride your bike. Keeping in mind...on nice clear days, it might be a great way for you to save money, save gas, and get some quality time outside.

2. SHOP FOR REPURPOSED ITEMS

We have several great places locally where you can shop for repurposed furniture, and other items to decorate your home or yard. Or...be crafty yourself, and recycle and reuse items in your home.

3. HIKE OUR LOCAL TRAILS

Make a plan to go hiking or walking a beautiful trail in central Minnesota. You have so many in Minnesota to choose from, it's a great time to get outside before the bugs take over.

4. BRING YOUR OWN GROCERY BAGS

Do you purchase your own reusable grocery bags?  Now is a good time to start. Or; if you have grocery bags at your house, you can bring them in and reuse them. Smart YOU!

5.PLANT YOUR OWN HERBS AND VEGGIES

This can be an indoor or outdoor activity, but why not plant your own herb garden? Eat fresh organic food that you make at home. You can do it. There are lots of do it yourself classes in the area, as well as online to help you get started.

6. USE EARTH FRIENDLY CLEANING PRODUCTS

There has been a push for such a long time to use cleaning products that are safe for our planet, yet sometimes we forget the damage we can be contributing to not only our planet, but our kids, pets, and other family members as well. Find Eco friendly products this year, and start making the switch to a healthier home.

7. TURN OFF THE LIGHTS

I'm still trying to convince my kids that we don't need lights on when we're not there. Also, setting the thermostat so the heat or air doesn't turn on unless we really need it.

8. OPEN THE WINDOWS

I love to sleep with the windows open. Right now, there's no bugs to pop in so it's a perfect time to get a nice fresh breeze through the house; and keep your house at the perfect temperature without having to use electricity or gas.

9. SHOP AT YOUR LOCAL FARMERS MARKET

Buy local fresh produce from your neighbors that are growing it.

10. INVEST IN REUSABLE COFFEE CUPS OR MUGS

I carry a reusable water bottle with me wherever I go...and sometimes I fill it with coffee. I have lots and lots of reusable mugs. Maybe that defeats the purpose? I also rarely use paper plates.