Meaningful financial investment may not be feasible for me, but I can contribute through time and advocacy. 

Refuse: not using plastic bags when eating produce at the store.
Repurpose: use old materials for art projects (which is super fun and makes for some interesting pieces!)

The only vegetable that I don’t use everything for is peppers (don’t use the steam). Which I have yet to find a use for. If anyone has any suggestions, I would love to hear them!

Otherwise, I cut up and use all of the veggies.

North American culture is one of excess.  We are a disposable nation.  I grew up eating a lot of red meat, which I still love today.  There were a few factors that probably contributed to this, I had terrible food allergies when I was a child, and meat was one of the things I could regularly eat that wouldn't upset them.  That coupled with the fact of living in the Midwest where large hearty "stick to your rib" meals are a staple, led to me eating probably more red meat than I should have.  About 5 years ago I was having terrible stomach problems which led to me changing my diet.  I eat much less red meat and fried foods now.  The health benefits have been amazing, I've never felt better!  Although I still love a good steak, I now eat vegetarian meals probably 2-4 times a week.

I love to have the chance to go on hikes in different parts of the state and United States.  I am looking forward to adding more opportunities to see the Great Outdoors in the USA!

Culture plays a large role in our meat eating habits. As a child, I did not like meat so I did not consume meeting. I was often criticized by my family, peers, teachers, etc. They thought it was behavioral. When I got to college, I started eating meat because I had limited options for food and it was more inexpensive to eat what was available. Now that I have a more adequate income, I am able to eat healthy vegetarian meals that I enjoy (and I don't care who gives me a hard time). 

We replaced our thermostat with a smart thermostat and we are very happy. The temperature in our home is much more consistent and I suspect that energy costs will decrease. 

I have never been a fan of material "stuff". Nate and I have a rule that we make memories versus purchasing items for each other for birthdays, anniversaries, etc. We are celebrating our 10 year anniversary this year and are going to a concert together rather than buying jewelry or other items. 

The Yellow Monkey has a spring open house on Saturday, May 5th! Please attend or shop at the Yellow Monkey to support a female run business that promotes individuals with disabilities in the workplace. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/234306863976741/