Friday, December 30, 2016

Final thoughts as we bid adieu to 2016

Circumstantially, 2016 was the year from hell. Seriously. Between my husband and I, we lost 20  people, many of whom were good friends or family members. We attended 13 funerals, several of them requiring trips out of town. Plus, in June, my husband suffered another heart attack, albeit minor. The emotional toll was daunting. Work-wise, my writing, editing, and voice-over business was not as busy as in prior years, particularly during the last several months of the year. As a result, when offered a full-time position running a home companionship company, I accepted, creating a brand new stress on us as a couple. I believe it was a good decision, but change is stressful and I have not worked a full-time job outside of the home since 1982. Yeah. Big change.

As I look back over the year, my first reaction well might be, "2016 sucked." But that's not a proper evaluation. Instead, I look back and feel peace.

How? you may be wondering.

This picture says it all. Above all else, 2016 proved to me once again that God is faithful. He does not control the circumstances around us. He is not a puppeteer, after all. But what He does is offer a peace that passes all understanding. A peace that dwells deep within our hearts and when we push aside all the crap, the garbage, the grief, and all the disappointments, it shines through and brings us joy. Yes, joy

That, my friends, is the message of 2016 for me. It wasn't about what I've lost. It was about what I gained through Christ, who dwells within me. As we enter a new year, my prayer is that I will be a faithful servant and shine His light wherever I go, regardless of the circumstances. Will I fail at times? Undoubtedly. But He'll be there to pick me up and renew the spark within me until it shines brightly once again.

May you rest in His peace as the year comes to a close and may His blessings be upon us all in 2017.

Hana

Friday, December 23, 2016

From darkness to light, PTSD to joy

I'm sitting at my desk in my new office preparing to head out for the holiday weekend. I have to admit it -- I'm tired. This month has been a whirlwind of activities and emotions and my mind and body are fighting me at this point. And as of right now, I've not wrapped a single present.

This past Saturday, we had some things happen that triggered a bit of the PTSD that still lingers from my husband's death in 1989 when there was a chemical explosion/flash fire where he worked. Since then, I struggle with fireworks and anything that resembles an explosion. 


On Saturday night, around 9:00, I was in my kitchen when I heard an explosion. We lost power immediately. Then, as I looked out the back window, a second explosion. Then from the front of the house, two more. The house shook. Light bulbs exploded. Fear gripped me. I was terrified. Power lines were coming down and transformers were on fire. Bill and I didn't know what would happen next. I grabbed a flashlight and went up to my office where I turned off my power strips, wondering if I was too late to save my equipment. Bill turned off everything else, just in case we had a power surge if the power was restored. We didn't have to worry about that, however, because the neighborhood remained dark and cold throughout the night. For hours, firefighters trudged up and down our steps, checking everything to ensure our house wasn't at risk for catching on fire.

The next morning, I went to my daughter's for the day, curling iron and makeup in tow. Bill remained at the house hoping something would be resolved. The electric company gave us varying reports, which included the need for everyone to have their houses checked by electricians before they would turn the power back on. Bill called someone from the Yellow Pages who offered 24/7 one-hour emergency service. He said he might be able to send someone out, but it would be tough since it was a Sunday. Umm... what does 24/7 mean exactly? Then he proceeded to say the cost for the service call would be between $500 and $1,000 and went on to explain what would be needed (new breaker box, new lines, etc. -- this without seeing what was wrong, just based on the information my husband provided). The total cost would be around $5,000. Bill called me. He was sick. 

I proceeded to put our dilemma on Facebook and one of our friends from church contacted me and asked what he could do. I said, "Unless you can restore our electricity, not much." Shortly thereafter, Bill received a phone call from him, informing him that an electrician was on his way. End result of everything, power was back on that night and the cost to us was zero. 

In the meantime, some of our neighbors did not fare as well and were without power for a few days. Our main breaker blew, which saved much of our equipment. We lost some Christmas lights, a television, some light bulbs, and our garage door opener. We were lucky. Others lost computers, printers, tankless hot water heaters, and more. For us, it was mostly an inconvenience.

Except for that whole PTSD thing for me. I'm edgier and cry easily right now. I'm tense. But I know it will all ease up with time. 

Yesterday, I helped a single dad who was having a heart attack. He was frightened and as we waited for the ambulance, he kept saying, "I'm too young for this." Yes, he is. And it served as another reminder about the brevity and fragility of life. I can only pray he's doing fine now.

As we approach the celebration of the Christ child's birth, let's focus on how that one event changed history. God became man and lived with us. He's not a distant CEO who dwells in a mansion and makes decisions that affect people's lives and families without any concept of what their lives are like. No. He dwelt among us. He felt our pain and our loss and our fears and our temptations. He chose to walk the road with us. The road that ultimately led to the cross where he chose to die for us in order for us to live. Christmas may be the beginning of the story, but it is in no way the end. And for that reason, and that reason alone, I have cause to rejoice. Despite my pain and my loss and my fears and my temptations. I choose joy, even if there are tears running down my cheeks. Joy transcends emotions.

Wishing you the peace that passes all understanding during this holy season. 

Merry Christmas!

Hana

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Taking the sting out of your holiday budget with Groupon

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions, however, are my own.


Image courtesy of George Hodan


It's the holiday season and, as mentioned in yesterday's post, I am so far behind. I need another month or so to get ready. Really, I do.

One of the problems with waiting this long to go Christmas shopping is that it's hard to save money. In the rush, we tend to spend too much, don't we? That's one of the reasons I love Groupon! Groupon coupons truly help us save money at a time when many of us spend way too much.

But it's not just Christmas presents we need at this time of the year. There are other things to consider as well.

One of the things I tend to put off and need to rush around to get is photos to include in my Christmas cards. Others I know wait too long to get their photo cards printed up. That's why the current coupons Groupon is offering for Target Photo are fantastic. Saving money, remember?

And, with all the rushing around and missed hours of sleep, it's super important to keep up with our vitamins and supplements so we don't end up really sick. With the Groupon's for Vitamin Shoppe, we can save money (there's that theme again) on some of the things that are vital for our health. Especially when we're not sleeping or eating well.

At the end of each busy, busy day, or at the end of the busy, busy holiday season, if you're anything like me, you truly appreciate sitting down with a nice glass of wine. Groupon has you covered there, too. At Wine.com, you can order wine for yourself or send a bottle or two to a friend or family member. And right now, there's free shipping, so it's definitely a win-win. Groupon savings and free shipping. The holiday season is looking better and better, don't you think?

Hurry on over to Groupon and take advantage of their countless saving coupons! You'll be glad you did!







Wednesday, December 14, 2016

A note to the Green Grandma community

I've been away from the blog for awhile, disappearing without much of an explanation. For that, I apologize. The thing is, this year has been a struggle. It started off in January with four deaths (family and friends) within a week or so. February started off with the death of my cousin. And the hits kept coming. A few weeks ago, my beloved uncle Gil died. He was #18 of our 2016 deaths. And he was the last of my Mom's brothers and sisters to die. Now they're all gone and that's hit me especially hard. Even now, as I write this, tears are streaming. But it gets worse.


Image courtesy of George Hodan

Two Sunday's ago, we received a phone call from our niece. She called to tell us her brother died suddenly that day. We reeled from the news. After all, he was vibrant and alive just hours before. But then his heart betrayed him and he was gone. Just.like.that.

We traveled to Ohio on Friday for the viewings. There were approximately 650 people at the afternoon visitation and probably just as many in the evening. On Saturday, we buried our nephew, and tried to offer comfort to his wife, four children, and his parents -- my husband's brother and his wife. It was brutal.

On top of all the grief, my life has changed in another way. A couple of weeks ago, I accepted the offer from my daughter, Bethany, and her husband, Tom, to run their company, Dignity Home Care Professionals, here in Pittsburgh. What that means is that I have very little time on my hands these days. Instead of crossing the hall from my bedroom to my office in the morning, I now have to make myself presentable and head into a different office about 5 miles away. I have to clean snow off my car. I have to talk to people (not easy for me in the morning). And, occasionally, I have to act as a caregiver for our elderly clients. I'm busy training and learning the ropes. I'm busy recruiting new clients and caregivers. Plus, I haven't abandoned my writing, editing, and voice-over business, so I'm also coming home and tending to that. Mercifully, I don't have a heavy workload right now for Speechless, but that could change at any time. While I'm not actively pursuing new work, I am trying to keep my regular clients happy.

And, of course, it's Christmastime, the busiest time of the year! I've not shopped, wrapped, or written a single card. And, let's face it, some of this year's cards are going to be tough to write.

Whew. Sound exhausting? It is. So, while I don't mean to neglect you, I just haven't had time to devote to you as I once did. I suspect that will change as I adjust and work my way through the grief of 2016. 

In the meantime, I'll be posting an occasional sponsored post, guest post, or contest. Just to keep things going. 

I'm wishing you peace as you navigate the holiday season. I treasure you and appreciate all your support.



Wednesday, November 30, 2016

On hiatus



Green Grandma is taking a brief hiatus. May your holiday season be bright and merry.


Monday, November 28, 2016

Are you raising charitable kids?

Below is a part of an article I wrote that appeared this month in the Las Vegas ZIPCODE magazine.

Giving Hearts
Raising Charitable Kids

By Hana Haatainen-Caye



It's that time of year when television commercials are screaming for your kids' attention. In turn, your children scream back -- at you -- to buy them every hot toy and accessory on some imaginary Christmas must-have list. What's a parent to do?

It's hard to turn your back on the cries of a child in such desperate "need." Smart advertisers work hard to convince them that life is barely worth living if they don't add this or that to their growing collection of things. As a parent, it's your job to override the wrong messages programmed into your children's brains and reprogram them to listen to their hearts instead; hearts that connect with giving rather than always getting.

The holiday season is the perfect time to start redirecting your children's focus toward charity. If done correctly, you will undoubtedly reshape their hears. Before long, it will be second nature for them to spot a need and want to fill it.

Talk the Talk

Children are innately curious beings. They want to know the hows and whys. Just telling them to do something "because it's the right thing to do" won't accomplish the transformation of their hearts. When taught to obey "because I told you so," kids may well perform as instructed, but that's not the kind of robotic obedience you're looking for, especially when it comes to teaching your children to give.

Six-year-old Laura badly wanted a stuffed rabbit she saw in a store. When her grandma wouldn't let her have it, she sulked. After they left the toy store, they passed a Salvation Army Red Kettle Bell Ringer. Laura asked what the man was doing. Her mother explained, "He's collecting money for people who don't have enough to buy food or toys for Christmas. There are some families who just can't afford to make Christmas special. But when others put money in the kettle, The Salvation Army can buy things for those families so they'll have a good Christmas after all."

Laura thought for a moment and then reached into her pocket and pulled out the five-dollar bill she was going to use to buy something for herself. Walking over to the man ringing the bell, she handed it to him and smiled. Her step was lighter as she skipped back to her mother, and the lesson stayed with her as she continued to give to others in need in the years to follow. All it took was an explanation.

Walk the Walk

Naturally, children want to emulate their parents. If you tell them to be charitable without extending your own hand of giving, all the talking in the world is not going to change their hearts. They need to see you giving as well. That means you don't ignore the Red Kettle Bell Ringers every time you pass them. Make sure your kids see you cheerfully slip some bills or change into the kettles from time to time.

But remember that giving doesn't always require money. Consider volunteering at one of the many local organizations working to brighten the holidays for others. Perhaps you can become a Red Kettle Bell Ringer yourself and inspire your children to give of their time as well.

A Guiding Hand

As your children start to understand the value of giving, they need your guidance to know what they can do. From donating money to buying toys or food to volunteering, fostering this spirit of charity can be a family affair. 

The Salvation Army offers programs and services that change lives. All the donations raised by the Red Kettle Bell Ringers stay in your community. The Red Kettle campaign has been around since 1891 and 82 cents of every dollar raised goes directly to those in need.

A Change of Heart

While getting involved in a local or national organization is invaluable, sometimes the best way to serve others is right in your own neighborhood. Children need to learn that giving can happen anytime and anywhere. Delivering a plate of homemade cookies or a warm tureen of soup to elderly neighbors or taking a poinsettia to someone who was recently widowed can help brighten the holiday season for them. And your children will experience what their parents learned long ago -- that seeing someone's face light up with gratitude is thanks enough. Kids who learn the joy of giving when they're young will grow up to be generous and thoughtful adults who truly embrace a lifestyle where kindness matters. And they'll understand, deep in their hearts, it really is more blessed to give than to receive.


Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Cosatto Supa Dupa Double Stroller Giveaway!

logo


Offering awesome giveaways is just one of the ways I can show you how thankful I am to have you as part of the Green Grandma community. And this one's a doozy. 

Cosatto's coolest stroller is now available in the US - the Supa Dupa (a double folding umbrella stroller)! This is not your average stroller. It boasts features like an iPad holder, a speaker for your iPod and muff to keep you child's feet warm in the colder weather. No feature was overlooked with this stunning, state-of-the-art stroller. 

Check out MamatheFox's full review for more details and information.


cosatto-supa-dupa-giveaway
MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not held responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligation

Nature's Bakery Prize Pack Giveaway! 4 Winners! $532 TRV


Sponsored By: Nature's Bakery

Hosted By: Love, Mrs. Mommy


4 Winners Will Receive A: 

Nature's Bakery Prize Pack Bundle! A $133 RV!


Prize Pack Includes: 

84 bars of Non-GMO Project Verified product! All 8 flavors of our Whole Wheat Fig Bars and 4 flavors for our Double Chocolate Brownies. (In 6 pack boxes)
(1) Nature’s Bakery Big Truck Hat
(1) Nature’s Bakery Camelbak Waterbottle
(1) Nature’s Bakery Lanyard

Total Value: $133 per winner!

A grand total giveaway worth $532!

Open to the US and must be 18+ to enter
Giveaway Dates ~ 11/23 12:01 AM EST through 12/7 11:59 PM EST 

Good luck!



Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy is not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. Love, Mrs. Mommy received nominal monetary compensation to host this giveaway. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winner will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. Winner has 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

It is still a beautiful world


Despite all the tension and trouble in the world, I am really hoping that my American community members can pause and find reasons to be thankful on Thursday. I pray you can set aside differences, rest your minds from turmoil, and enjoy... really enjoy... your family for the day. 

Yes, it is difficult in this current political climate.

Yes, it is difficult as we are bombarded with negativity.

Yes, it is difficult as we continue to see the way the native Americans are being treated by the government.

Yes, it is difficult as we are faced with racism and prejudices of all sorts. 

Yes, it is difficult.

But I, for one, while not "burying my head in the sand" as some would accuse me of, am choosing gratitude. Thankfulness. Joy, even.

I am going to try to do my best to encourage, lift up, and bless those around me -- family, friends, and even strangers. It's all I can do, really, to influence change in this difficult (there's that word again) climate.

Does that mean I'm getting along with everyone and spreading only sunshine? Of course not. There are some, including family members, who I've chosen to walk away from simply because I no longer will tolerate their negativity and drama. Sometimes that's the best thing we can do for our own sake and the sake of remaining family members, especially the children. 

I encourage you to seek the higher ground. To find joy amidst difficulty and sorrow. To be thankful, truly thankful, for the blessings around you. They are bountiful, even if you don't acknowledge them. Be grateful. Be loving. And be well, my friends.




I leave you with the wise and gentle words of Max Ehrmann in his piece, Desiderata:

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.

Take kindly to the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.


* * *

Happy Thanksgiving.



Friday, November 18, 2016

Ridding their stores of toxic chemicals. How do your favorite stores rate?


I mentioned Black Friday and Cyber Monday on yesterday's post and I wanted to follow up with some info I just learned. It's about toxic chemicals and some of your favorite retailers.

Apparently, there are certain popular retailers that, when graded, earn an F when it comes to having safer chemicals policies in place. And there are some that, while not quite earning an A, are at least making an effort to get toxic chemicals out of the products they sell in their stores.

I'm sure you're itching to know which ones are which, so here goes, starting with the best:

B



C


C-



D+


D




D-



F





So what should you do? That's up to you, really. I'm not here to tell you where or where not to shop. But I would love it if you would take the time to thank the retailers that are making progress and tell the others they need to get their act together (in nicer words than that!). It's easy to do, really. Just click here to take action today!

Are you surprised by any of these? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Keeping you informed,








Thursday, November 17, 2016

Get a jump on holiday shopping bargains with Groupon

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received product and/or compensation in exchange for stating my personal opinions.


It's the time of year when finding a good deal seems to be on everyone's priority list. I guess that's what makes Black Friday and Cyber Monday so popular. But you don't have to wait until after Thanksgiving to jump on deals. Not when you visit the Groupon website and do some shopping there! 

I love Groupon for a variety of reasons, especially their Health, Beauty & Wellness Groupons. Why? Because that's where you find the deals on massages in your area. Ahhhhh. Massage gift certificates make awesome gifts (hint, hint) and when you buy them at a significant discount, what could be better. You can stick to your budget and still reward your friends, co-workers, and family with gifts that will delight!

But who says you need to reserve your massage Groupons to give as gifts? After all, we busy moms, grandmas, aunts, nannies... you know, we busy women... all need a little pampering, too. Especially during the hectic holiday months. Right? Of course. With all the decorating, shopping, baking, shopping, cooking, shopping, card writing, shopping, party hosting... whew... with all of that, we have to take an hour or two for ourselves and just relax. So go ahead -- treat yourself. You deserve it. And Groupon can make it happen! And make sure you follow Groupon on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with all their great money-saving opportunities!

I think I'll head over there and check out some of the current Groupons myself. 

Happy shopping!






Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Winner's Choice of Chibebe Snuggle Pod Giveaway! $99 RV!


Sponsored By: Chibebe

Hosted By: Love, Mrs. Mommy

Co-Hosted By:


Winner Will Receive:

Their choice of Snuggle Pod and Seat Cover! A $99 RV (beans not included)

Chibebe is the world’s #1 baby beanbag! The Chibebe Snuggle Pod was originally designed to help prevent reflux and flathead symptoms, but that’s not all! These adorable snuggle pods grow with your baby for many years down the road (great for all ages) and come in a variety of stylish, exclusive designs. They not only look amazing, but so is their quality! Chibebe has high standards of safety, so much so that they are laboratory tested to not only meet, but exceed USA and Australian standards! 

Please note that the beans are not included. However they are inexpensive and can be purchased at any number of online and brick-and-mortar locations.


Open To US and must be 18+ to enter

Giveaway Dates ~ 11/16 9:00 AM -- 11/30 11:59 PM EST 

Good luck!



Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy and all participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. Love, Mrs. Mommy received a Chibebe Snuggle Pod at no cost to facilitate the above-mentioned review. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winner will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. Winner has 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.

Monday, November 14, 2016

Recycling. Are you stumped as to what to recycle and where? Maybe this will help.


Tomorrow, November 15th, is America Recycles Day. There are activities planned all across the country to raise awareness and to encourage everyone to step up their game when it comes to recycling.

My husband and I have talked about it and can't find any way to improve the recycling practices already in play in our home. I'm sure many of you feel the same way.

But you'll probably also agree with us when I say that the biggest challenge to recycling is knowing what can be recycled and where to recycle various items.

At AmericaRecyclesDay.org, there is a handy resource to find recycling centers close to home. Just click here and scroll down to see what can be recycled and where. From shoes to toasters to plastic bags, they have the answers for you.

Tomorrow and every day, let's show our family, friends, and neighbors how dedicated we are to protecting our planet by limiting what goes into the landfill. Future generations will thank us for it!

Recycling right alongside you,


Saturday, November 12, 2016

Weekend Quote

Image by Axelle B

"Then join hand in hand,
brave Americans all!
By uniting we stand,
by dividing we fall."

John Dickinson
The Liberty Song 1768



Friday, November 11, 2016

Can You Go Green and Still Use Technology?


Today, I'm happy to feature another great guest blogger.


Electronics are often produced with toxic chemicals and heavy metals. Due to the manufacturing process, many gadgets aren’t exactly eco-friendly. However, living without modern technology isn’t for everyone, and certain career choices make it impossible to avoid using the Internet or having a smartphone on hand.

Those trying to live a green lifestyle wrestle with the question of whether or not technology can fit into their way of life. So, is it possible to go green and still use technology? Here are a few considerations that might be able to answer that question.

Finding Sustainable Electronics


Surprisingly, certain electronics are manufactured in a more eco-friendly manner, and EPEAT has a database of hundreds of gadgets that have a less negative impact on the environment overall. EPEAT’s registry uses medals to rate different electronics, and you can search by manufacturer, type of device and country to find what you’re looking for. At the moment, you can only search for computers and displays, imaging equipment and TVs, but hopefully more categories will become available in the future.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for on EPEAT’s registry, consider contacting the manufacturer of the device you own or are interested in for more information. Another option is checking Energy Star’s website to find which products are certified as being energy efficient. Though Energy Star won’t tell you whether or not specific electronics are manufactured in a more eco-friendly way, they can give you an idea of how much power something consumes relative to similar devices.

Prolonging Device Lifespan

Once you have your devices, it’s important to make them last. Even if they made it on to EPEAT’s registry, you can reduce waste by using them for as long as possible. One way to do this is to use security software and other preventative measures to keep your gadgets in tip-top shape.

If security software can be used (such as on computers, tablets, and smartphones), consider installing an anti-virus and using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service. An anti-virus will detect malware and viruses on your device and assist in removing them whenever possible. A VPN service works to safeguard your privacy and protect against hackers.

Most importantly, the proper software can prevent Internet-enabled devices from crashing due to a cyber-attack. Another way to prolong the lifespan of your device is to update software and operating systems as often as possible. This protects from hackers, too, by patching up vulnerabilities within your software that might make a cyber-attack easier.

Reducing Electricity Usage

Besides using only Energy Star certified products, you can reduce your electricity usage when using your gadgets. Some devices have power-saving modes you can enable, and that will help you keep the battery from draining as quickly. To see if this is a possibility on your device, look through the settings.

Another way you can reduce electricity usage is to remind yourself to turn off or shut down your devices when they’re not in use and unplug them. Consider making it a part of your daily routine so it becomes habit. Using a power strip in your home can make this process easier, as you will simply have to turn the power strip’s switch on and off instead of unplugging chargers and other devices you aren’t using. This is especially important because power is still supplied to your gadgets when they’re plugged in but not in use!

Recycling and Upcycling Old Gadgets


If your device does end up crashing and becoming unusable, you can recycle—or upcycle—it to reduce waste and prevent more potentially harmful chemicals from ending up in the landfills. Though your waste management company who picks up your recyclables every week isn’t likely to pick up any electronics for recycling, you can find an electronic recycle center nearby.

Best Buy is a well-known company that has an electronic recycling drop-off box, but if you don’t have a Best Buy nearby, no need to worry. The Earth911 Recycling site will provide you with a list of places where you can take your gadgets to dispose of them safely. Another option is to offer your items to a repair specialist who might want them for parts.

For example, if you have a computer or appliance that is no longer usable, contact the appropriate repairs specialists to see if they would make use of them in any way. You could also reach out to local artists who like to upcycle old tech—perhaps they can use some of the components in a sculpture.

Using One Device to Go Green

Technology can be a tricky subject when it comes to going green, but so long as you prolong the lifespan of your devices (electronics, in particular) and dispose of them properly, that can be helpful. With a smartphone or tablet, you can literally use one device to complete a variety of tasks and as an alternative to purchasing additional items. For example, a smartphone or tablet can replace a camera or MP3 player entirely. With the use of apps on these sorts of devices, you can forgo buying measuring tools, pedometers, calculators, radios, clocks and more!

Think of how many of the above items end up in the landfills every year. So, in a sense, you can go green and still use technology. It all depends on whether or not you’re using it responsibly and choosing the most sustainable products available.

About the Author: Cassie is a tech writer for Secure Thoughts. When she’s not busy writing, she’s looking for additional ways to reduce her carbon footprint. Most of all, she enjoys sharing tips that can help others go green without completely avoiding modern technology.


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