Green living is something many citizens talk about.  However modifying our personal lifestyles can be another reality.  One of the myths about green living is that it is expensive. Click the previous link and see how one woman found ways to save and go green in Washington, D.C.

First consider the cost of green products. Visit Natural Grocers with a calculator, and make note of green cleaning products. Natural Grocers has 4 NM locations. Some of these products will also be available in Target and Snnflower markets throughout New Mexico.

Green cleaners often are concentrated so that you get more loads or use out of smaller containers. If you have children with astma, allergies, or sensitive skin, these cleaners and soaps may save you lots of money on doctors visits or medications. Once you have done your comparison shopping (remember to include baking soda in large boxes and vinegar,white too), go one step further.

At Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage your produce dollars go farther too. SUnflower Markets may have more 10 for $10 sales, but you often are purchasing smaller amounts for the same dollar. A $2.00 bunch of kale at Natural Grocers may give you 2 1/2 times more food. Add a few sale items, and now you can more healthfully feed your family, save gas with the trip to NG, and be saving money. Wait you are not done yet. If you need supplements, health and beauty items, and great grocery, dairy, and frozen foods, your dollars often go further at Natural Grocers. Hence, one visit a week may save you $50-$100, per visit.  Some people who drive further plan their visits for once or twice a month and stock up. Make sure to shop when hotline sales will save you even more.

In Santa Fe NM, as well as many other NM locations, water rates, and all utilities are increasing. Start planning water catchment systems for the rains. This can be done as easily as having used garbage containers or empty buckets near run off areas.  One elderly neighbor saves her bath water and puts it in barrels to water her plants.  Yes it is work, and she saves much money on her water bill.

People often run water more than necessary. When washing dishes use a basin 1/2 full. Pile clean dishes on the side. Pour dirty water into a bucket for some flowers or bushes.  Fill the basin 1/2 up to rinse the dishes. Avoid running water while doing the dishes.

When taking a shower, time your normal shower. 2-3 X a week reduce the shower time in half.

Keep making more lists of simple ways to save more. Come back for more tips too.

Tips from a two year old . It is winter and people may feel low energy, down, or ill.  These tips remind us there always is more to life!