Tonight we all celebrate the beginning of a fresh New Year.  2008 was a year of many changes for me.  Some, at the time, I was not so crazy about, but now I can see the good and/or importance and even the beauty in each one.  I am thankful for that ability.

     I used to make resolutions, but for the last few years, at the beginning of each year, I have instead chosen a key word to live by.  This past year, my word was focus, the year before that, it was simplify.  This year, my word is believe. 

     On New Year's Eve, my husband and I always celebrate with our very favorite foods.  We cook, grill, bake and then savor every bite.  I must admit to having my fill of sweets, but I am going to make one more sugared up dessert for tonight.

Lemon Bars

First, mix together with a fork and pat in an ungreased 8X8 pan. Bake 350 for 15 min:
1/2 cup melted butter (not margarine)
1 cup flour
1/4 cup organic sugar

Next, mix together and pour over hot crust and bake 20 more minutes:
2 free-range eggs
1 cup organic sugar
2 tbsp flour
the juice of 1 organic lemon squeezed well

Cool and sprinkle with 10X sugar if you like.

     I hope that your own resolutions, traditions or special word will help to guide you through a most magnificent 2009. 

     Best wishes to all and Happy New Year!

     I personally think that most people are aware of environmental issues (many studies, including my own thesis research seems to support this), but they may not know the extent of the damage of ecological issues, how exactly to live green, or think it is really expensive or time consuming to be eco-friendly.  Some green technologies and products are initially more expensive than conventional products, but usually they tend to be cheaper and better for you and the Earth in the long run.  Trying to live green on a budget may take a little more creativity and planning, but it is entirely possible and easy to do, once you get started!  At times, living green can actually be easier on a budget, since most people watching their budget usually tend to consume less (over-consumption is one of the biggest environmental problems, and simply consuming less is one of the most eco-friendly things you can do!).  Here are some quick eco living tips for the most common necessities (general, food, cosmetics, soaps, and clothing), which are great green practices for all people, whether they are on a budget or not!

General Green Tips:

Consume less

     This eco tip can’t be overemphasized.  Even if you don’t know what steps to take to live more eco-friendly, if you consume less, you are already well on the way to living green J.

     What is one of the most talked about topics by women besides their hair? Yes, you guessed it - losing weight. This is my experience anyway. Being in a service business (hairstylist and reflexologist) I come into contact with a lot of women and this is two of the most talked about topics I hear about. Whether I am at work, or at a mall or anywhere, these are the topics I hear talked about most.

     This is going to be short and to the point. Most people who talk about losing weight say they are going to lose it for this event or that event. Have you ever heard the following statements or even said something similar yourself?:

'My high school reunion is coming up in a couple months so I am going to work really hard and lose these 10 pounds I have been wanting to lose.' OR 'Summer is coming, so I am going to start working out now so I can look good in my bathing suit.' OR 'I have a wedding to go to in a couple months so I am putting myself on a strict diet so I look good for it.'