From muscle tone to precious resources, you can view this old favorite from several different perspectives. In light of the upcoming Climate Conference in Copenhagen, let’s focus on the latter. While I’m no advocate for the global warming crisis – because I believe it’s a bit presumptive of us to make such vast predictions based on the tiny window of time we humans have inhabited this earth – scientific “models” are just that: “models” – I think we can all agree there’s no sense in waste. From frugal consumption to garbage disposal, we should all practice clean living habits, and be good stewards of our environment. I mean, even a dog knows better than to soil his living space, shouldn’t we humans?
Call me a waste-not-want-not kinda gal, but this is a motto I can live by, starting with my morning java. You’re already dispatching your leftover veggie omelette to the compost pile, how about your coffee? Used coffee grounds are in high demand around my garden so once I’ve had my fill, the used grounds are scattered among the blueberries, raspberries, azaleas and gardenias – don’t fight kids, there’s enough for all of you! – and my rose bushes, too (you all can thank me later with a bounty of produce).
stores easily under your cabinet
I even save the old coffee and dilute it with water, to make a spray for insects. I recently read in an organic gardening magazine one woman had good results keeping the white files from her tomato and basil by doing so. Granted, it’s not a scientific fact – remember, I tend to question these things – I figure if it worked for her it can work for me! If it’s easy, the questions become less frequent. And why not pour some around the base of your potatoes, while you’re at it. They love acid, they should love coffee, right?
And don’t forget that newspaper you’re reading. When you’re finished, use it as mulch along your walking rows to keep the weeds at bay. I’d place mine (if I still took my news the un-green way) beneath the hay so I don’t ruin that lovely “welcome to the garden” feeling I get every time I gaze at my neatly lined rows of straw. It’s the little things that please me most. (Big smile, here.) That, and productivity. Don’t forget, there’s a reason I’m saving the earth via my garden: I have mouths to feed and years to enjoy.
But don’t stop there! After school, what water the kids don’t drink, dump the remainder of their thermos into your houseplants – not down the drain. Same goes for juices, etc. I use these in the compost pile, though liquid in the bin does add to the mess factor on the way out — kids are working to fine tune their balancing skills for this amazing feat — another positive side effect.
However you manage it, I’m a believer in wasting nothing. Not because science dictates such, but because it makes sense. Common sense; something we strive for everyday in our household. Without it, momma goes insane!
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