Be a winner

Alright, I promised a contest so you’re getting a contest. Earlier this year I was a lucky winner in one of the drawings on Allie’s Answers in which I received a copy of the book Green Chic. In the spirit of the book and of Allie herself, I decided that I would pass it along through a contest on this blog.

That was forever ago.

I’ve sort of been waiting for Courtney to read it before I recycle it to one of you, but, let’s be honest, my inherent laziness probably would have kept me from getting this done before now anyway. Maybe if I finally designate it for assignment, though, she’ll give it a skim. It is, after all, a book geared for the environmentally conscious woman, or at least women who are considering becoming environmentally conscious. In pointing this out, I don’t mean to scare off any guys from entering this little contest, because the big picture of the book, and most of the details, are applicable and relatable to anyone. Dudes just might want to skip the sections on pedicures and tampons. I didn’t because I like to consider myself well-rounded.

Anyway, here’s the contest: Just leave a comment telling me what you’ve been doing this summer to reduce your impact on this finite little planet of ours. It doesn’t matter if it’s something I’ve already mentioned here or a repeat of another person’s comment. It can even be something that you’ve been meaning to start doing but haven’t gotten around to yet. I just want to see your ideas, no matter how small. I’ll put the names of the people who share on little pieces of paper, draw one at random, and the lucky winner will receive a lovely little green book in the mail. If you don’t want the book I want your comments anyway, so just tell me you don’t want the book. You’re chances of winning are really good, too, now that I’ve chased off my formerly robust readership with my apathy of late.

Just a couple caveats: The winner has to pass the book on to someone else. Also, I’ll be needing your mailing address when I pick the winner, so there goes anonymity (But seriously, I’m barely motivated enough to hold this contest, let alone put on my hockey mask and hunt you down.) Courtney and Allie are not eligible to win, but I still want to hear from them.

To get things started, here are a few things I’ve been doing recently that, in my mind, make me a better person (and that’s the whole point, right?)

-We keep the thermostat pegged at about 80 or 81 degrees. It’s summertime. It’s supposed to be warm. You get used to it. I feel bad about using the AC at all, but we’ve got to keep the fish tank cool. It’s all about the fish, I swear.

-When it’s 80 degrees inside, a cold shower feels really nice. The water in our pipes right now is around 77 degrees, and that feels pretty good. By not using the hot water, I’m not using any extra energy to heat the water up. It’s better for your hair and skin anyway, and I’m all about looking my radiant best.

-While in the shower, there’s no need to run the water when you’re not using it. I know in shampoo and soap commercials those weirdos stand directly under the spray while lathering up, but I know I’m not alone in my tendency to step out from under the water while soaping up. Otherwise what’s the point? So while you’re loofa-ing or whatever you do to get off the filth, turn off the water until you’re ready to rinse. And don’t repeat. It’s not necessary.

-And while we’re talking showers, just don’t take one if you don’t need one. I only bother if I’ve been sweating profusely or I’m just seriously overdue. If you’re not dirty then you’re already clean, right?

So what the hell have you guys been up to?