My Green Dilemma

You remember the Hip enviromental cause of the 1990's The Amazon Rainforest, right? Check this out, soybeans being grown for the newest enviro-cause BIO-FUEL. The Picture is from this TIME Magazine article.

I know the other day I may have seemed a bit over emo about the whole "green" thing. Now that we know I am preggo...we can just blame it on that, right? Hopefully everyone will give me a break. Let me at least give you a little background, we'll just call it the green dilemma.

It started a few years ago when I was trying to incorporate some "green" living ideas into our lifestyle. I felt it was important to be aware of things that are harmful to the enviroment, and to at least do my part in being a better caretaker of the small plot on the earth's surface that was so graciously given me. This hadn't been as much of a concern in years past, but as I began to find myself, and issues I believe in, this stood out. I think one of the reasons was, so often the "christian" right is NOT known for really caring about the enviroment. I don't think it's that they don't care, they believe there are bigger issues at hand. Okay, fair...however, as a believer, in most of the moral issues out in the world today, christians should focus on relationships and changing hearts. This happens primarily through our example, in everything we do. We as believers should set the example for others in many things, not just in the obvious issues. So I too, being my Hip self (of course), decided I could jump on this band wagon, hey, it's a great cause!

I knew my Grand Caravan took E85, so I started by asking my husband about using E85 in my tank, he said there weren't any nearby stations at the time. There is now one about 50 miles from where we live and 3 public and 2 private stations in our state, I found out here. My Hip Caravan averages about 15-16 mpg on E85 according to this web site. Regular unleaded gets me about 22 mpg on average. E85 is running anywhere from 17%-37% less than unleaded nationwide. In NYC, it's about a 26% spread between the two. If you live in the Big Apple, it really might end up being a slightly better payoff, especially if you are NOT driving the Gas Hog that I drive. However, in our area, the difference isn't that significant, and certainly, not enough to have me driving 50 miles for it. I have always thought the "hybrid" cars are a great idea, and that we should definately put more time and energy (no pun intended) into these vehicles.

The idea of driving a vehicle that would be less wasteful, and more efficient is really appealing to me. Seeing as how my family continues to grow, and my buget does not, I won't be purchasing one of the new Hybrid Escalades anytime soon, or any other vehicle for that matter. So far I think the Hybrid is the best green idea regarding automobiles. There are many websites on the subject, autobloggreen was very informative in particular. My dilemma lies not in the importance of finding better alternatives, because I'm all for that. My dilemma is this: Is the cure worse than the disease? This is the question I've decided to ask myself on any number of "cause" related issues.

The use of ethanol based fuel and the benefits are causing me some trepidation. My own family situation may or may not be impacted, but what about our fellow brothers and sisters around the world? Those in the third world, much less fortunate than you and I. How does this effect them? Is ethanol artifically raising the cost of food around the world? In the light of being more energy conscious, and being a better steward of the world God has so graciously given us, are we really contributing to the betterment of our global community? Or should we pass and say "good try" an move on to other alternatives that aren't so costly (not just financially)? Should we so quickly raise our voice for something where the benefits long term are really completely unknown.

My grandfather says this often: "The devil you know, is better than the devil you don't know." And really that's all I meant to say in the first place. The economic landscape has changed dramatically over the past several years...people blame it on the powers that be, weather, you name it...they blame it. I just think these issues might have something to do with it, on a global scale, not just nationally. Certainly it's something to think about. I found this article from 2006 very intriging in light of our current state of affairs.

Dan Becker of the Sierra Club is quoted as saying, “With ethanol, the devil is in the details. There are ways of making it that are quite clean, but that’s not the way we’re doing it.” Find the complete article here. Also Check out Food vs. Fuel on Wikipedia

On a positive note, I have bought reusable grocery bags. I'm looking into healthier "green" household cleaners, if you know of some that smell good, and actually clean, let me know. I did have an exciting moment at IKEA the other day, and called my friend (the one who told me to do a rewrite). IKEA recycles flouresant light bulbs, batteries, and incandessant bulbs! So, now that I have a place to go to recycle the mercury filled lamps...I might just jump on that band wagon too!
Hip Mama

ANNOUNCEMENT....

Okay, So there you have it!

We are having a Baby!

Pray for Health, Strength and Provision....

Hip Mama

GREEN POLITICS PART 2

Mr. Congressman,

Thank you for your response. I appreciate your desire to find new sources of energy, in addition to expanded drilling and building new refineries. However, what do we do in the transition? Use the resources that we have....rather than relying on foreign oil to sustain us. Why should a foreign country have the right to drill off of Florida shores ( international waters) and not the US? Wouldn't we regulate that much more and have our interests in mind, before they would? I agree that the need for alternative sources of energy are greater than ever. And we have found some solutions...some of which the cure is worse than the disease.

Ethanol in the long term is having a far worse effect on the world than oil is...i.e. an artificial rise in grocery prices due to government subsidies for farmers growing corn for fuel. The amount of corn needed to make one tank of fuel for a car, could feed a family (3rd world) for a year. 3rd world food prices have gone up dramatically, adding to their already difficult existence. The corn grown for fuel is not edible, and is pumped so full of fertilizers in order to grow it the way needed for fuel. Has anyone thought about the long term effect on the soil and it leeching chemicals into the water supply? Farmers are already loading the fruits and vegetable we eat with chemical after chemical to grow more and faster...and what has that done for our citizens? You Democrats tout "environment" but you only pander to those willing to fill the pocket of your respectable trousers. Who is getting all the money for these "carbon credits"? It's all BS and you know it. Did you know that ethanol is too corrosive to be carried by rail? Hello, seems pretty toxic to me. It's not that much better for the air quality, and it gets 1/3 of the miles per gallon than normal oil fuel.

I remember the media used to be all over Cheney & Bush for going to Iraq over oil...well, they would have a point if our oil was cheaper b/c of it, but it's not. And Why the heck not? Why aren't we getting paid back for our contribution in the form of OIL? Now, while we "transition" as you say. What is the old saying? The devil you know is better than the devil you don't know, and we should keep drilling for oil, and refining oil, until we find a way to sustain us with a better alternative, more efficient, cost effective way. This effects everyone, not just our fuel...but our electric bill. I highly support the use of nuclear energy here in the U.S. My electric Bill usually goes up in the summer, but our electric company has raised its cost even more significantly! It's killing us. Do something now...we don't have time to wait for some ridiculous notion of "alternative energy"...Our country is in a crisis and all you can think about is the next election...and what the political pundits are saying. Your party can't get anymore done (like they said they would with a majority) and you have less of an approval rating than bush!...and you all are a waste of our tax money if you can't just come to some agreements with in the two parties...

All of this "green" business is fine and good...but lets be honest, it's a BUSINESS. Even something as simple as choosing a light bulb, comes down to cost margin. Mark my words, sir, that in 20-30 years, we are going to wonder why so many people have mercury poisoning. Why? Well, back in the early 2000's everyone started buying florescent light bulbs instead of incandescent...and very few people knew that the florescent light bulbs have Mercury and need to be disposed of properly, at hazardous waste facility, and the closest one....*drum roll please* Atlanta. The cost of sending those bulbs is so ridiculous, that no one does it. Not to mention that retailers make a significant margin on the "green" bulbs than the regular ones.

So fine, fight for alternative energy! I agree with GREEN! I care deeply about our environment. I believe we can work together with in our political parties. However, not when the cure is worse than the disease.

Thank you again, and I ask that before you make decisions and pat your political self on the back that you do your research before you support something. Did you go to Washington for Power or to serve the People? Do us all a favor and look into these things without the trappings of money, power or what your colleagues would want you to do, but what would be best for us, your constituents.

Sincerely, Hip Mama

So, Take some time and research all of the ins and outs of the"GREEN MOVEMENT"...I am FOR GREEN, don't misunderstand. However, my husband works in the lighting/electrical/energy efficiency field, and my"gusto" against some of this began,when I became more aware and wanted to incorporate some "green living" ideas in our home. My goal is to find out what we can do that is REAL & GREEN and not just a band-aid or propaganda to line yet another pocket... :) Hope y'all will still like me after this. Love to hear some ideas.

Hip Mama

GREEN POLITICS PART 1

So, this might get some of you going...here's a recent letter written me by my local congressman, in response to my request to be part of a bill that will allow drilling for more oil, and creating refineries.

Dear Hip Mama,

Thank you for contacting my office regarding U.S. energy policy reform and offshore drilling along our coastlines. I appreciate hearing from you and I welcome the opportunity to respond.

Our dependence on foreign oil has forced us time and again to make poor foreign policy decisions and has made us reliant on unstable, dangerous foreign countries to fuel our economy. The need for alternative sources of energy is greater than ever, which is why I am an outspoken advocate for reducing and eventually eliminating our reliance on foreign oil. We should never have to make another foreign policy decision based on where the next drop of oil is coming from.

On December 6, 2007, Congress passed legislation that makes an historic investment in the development of alternative sources of fuel and will require more energy efficient building codes, vehicles and appliances. The energy conservation measures alone will, overtime, significantly reduce energy costs for homes and businesses, and will have a substantial impact on our demand for foreign oil.

Please know I understand your concern regarding the need for new oil refineries in the U.S. I absolutely support the development of new or expanded oil refineries in the U.S., but not as a single long term solution to our energy needs. This energy reform legislation will make real investments in clean, renewable sources of energy that will address the climate crisis and ensure that we have an abundant supply of energy to last us for generations to come. By transitioning to clean, renewable energy, we will save consumers money, encourage economic growth, and make a smart investment to address the long term energy needs of our country.

Research and development into alternative, renewable sources of fuel, have vastly expanded over the past few decades, and with significant federal investment, we can encourage innovation, create millions of new jobs, and find a viable and cost effective solution to our energy crisis.

Again, thank you for taking the time to contact my office. I sincerely appreciate your input and hope that you will contact me in the future if I can be of further assistance.

So what do you think? Politics probably aren't a very fun subject to share with people that I hope will like me...but this whole thing is getting me worked up....check out my response to his resply.

Stay tuned on Saturday for my humble response.

Roll Call...

I love sharing on my blog! And it gives me more incentive now that I have somewhat of an Audience. Thanks so much! You have been so encouraging! It's a great community out here in the blogosphere! I am glad to be a part of it! It has given me an outlet, in this period of my life that can be an island.

I do have a little routine, and I rotate, so sometimes I won't get to all of them every week. I'll then end up commenting on stuff from a week or two ago. Then I think, oh, that was lame. So if I have done this with you...just remember, I'm the Hip Homeschooling Mommy of 3 children. Most of you, I know are there too!

Give me a shout out if you are reading....commenting, or just lurking. If you have a blog, please let me know you are here and let me add you to my blog roll. And if you like the blog, feel free to return the favor! And BTW I thank you! (for sharing with me)

Have a great weekend.

Hip Mama

Tuesday Tidy Tidbit..

Here's some advice from another mom...I've recently implemented:

(I'd give credit where credit is due, but I just can't remember who)

Have the older kids fold and put away their own clothes. I don't know if I didn't think of it, or just didn't think they were capable, but I was doing it all myself (of course). My oldest can do this, the 5 year old can put away, but is still learning to fold. "Um, Hello, earth to Hip Mama; outsourcing is KEY to your sanity!"

I also implemented the older kids to take turns cleaning the bathroom. If you check out Flylady.com they suggest to "swish & swipe" the bathroom daily. I'm sure it's not the most cost effective or enviromentally friendly way to wipe everything down daily, but we use the store brand cleaning/disinfectant wipes. My older ones are 5 (almost 6) & 7 1/2 and they seem to be able to handle this on their own quite well. We did the bathroom a couple of times together at first and now, as long as they are reminded they just do it on their own, on their day.

Here's what to do: (or teach the appropriate aged)

• Have the child get the wipe (or you give it to them -- I keep a container in each bathroom)
• Clear off the bathroom counter & put everything away
• Use wipe to wipe down counter
• Wipe down top of Toilet Tank
• Wipe down Toilet Lid
• Wipe down Toilet Seat (Top)
• Wipe down Seat (bottom)
• Wipe down the toilet rim
• Wipe down front and any other places where there's been a "miss"
• Throw wipe(s) away If this is done daily I don't see how you would need more than 2 Wipes
• Next empty garbage ( I just have them take it to kitchen trash) & put a new bag on
• Check bath for toilet paper (so no one runs out when they need it) if it needs some soon bring the extra one out and set on top tank.
• Close shower curtain, pick everything up off of floor, straighten towels
• This takes my kids no longer than 10 minutes, maybe less, depending on the kiddo, and if it was done the day before or not.

Now, before you think that not only am I the hippest mommy on the planet, I must have the absolute cleanest, & organized home too! Well, that's where you are D-E-A-D dead wrong...I only do this as a reminder and for accountability.

So Here's *lift glass* to outsourcing!

Hip Mama

A Church Visit

Last week, the girls spent their days at VBS. One of the other home schooling moms that I know told me about it...all she had to say was it was from 9-3 and only $35 bucks...well worth my sanity, oh, I mean free time. It wasn't the church we normally go to, but the girls had a great time, and I could tell they really enjoyed it and learned a lot! Friday came, and they begged us to go to the Friday night service, which was at a great time (7pm-9pm). It gave us just enough time to get everyone together, fed and somewhere on time, which is next to impossible Sunday Mornings.

Sunday mornings usually consist of me pulling my hair out, and screaming at my kids to get in the car, and my rant is pretty much over by the time we drop the kids to each of their Sunday morning destinations at Church. Well, this seemed much more relaxed, I wasn't stressing and feeling bad through the service that I was so horrible to my kids etc...

THE CARTOON BLOG is the not- quite- daily internet column of Dave Walker. Dave writes and draws for the Church Times and is to be the 'Cartoonist in Residence' for the 2008 Lambeth Conference.

Praise and worship was good, I love praise & worship, and really any kind of music, but my husband doesn't really... he is a music lover, and music trivia whiz...and stays up on all the current "hip"music trends (really it just makes me feel old, cuz' I kinda like what I like now). He just doesn't get much out of the praise & worship side of it...anyway, I caught him actually tapping his foot, and hand a couple of times...so major stuff here! It doesn't matter either way to me, I just thought it was interesting.

The pastor and church seemed genuine, you know it's always a little hard to get used to someone elses preaching style. An openness and humble spirit was present, which I liked...and you tell the people had a sense of "community there. It was definately more charismatic than I am personally used to, having grown up in a pretty conservative church environment, that's always interesting. But I've been wanting that a bit more. Not in a "fuzzy-wuzzy" feeling, "ooo Jesus, your so soft and cuddly" way. But in a "God I know you are real, and present, and all powerful and I'm amazed at how evident you are in my life and my journey--I want to express it" kind of way.

Over all, it was enjoyable and good to take part in a new church experience, different from what we are used to. Different is always good...Hip Hub & I have always lived just outside the box anyway...

Hip Mama

P.S. I thought this cartoon was funny...and you all might enjoy it...since you either read/write or lurk the blogosphere.....BTW, as I do want to be Kosher does anyone know the "rules" about putting this stuff or other pictures up? Is giving the photographer and/or artist credit enough

HomeBoy Scraps

*A FEW DAYS AGO I POSTED PICTURES OF THE SCRAP BOOK THING I DID AFTER SOME REFLECTION, I'VE DECIDED TO REMOVE THE IMAGES TEMPORARILY*

BUT PLEASE CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE SCRAPBLOG (LINK BELOW)

These images were created on Scrapblog...check it out, it's a web-based digital scrapbooking program....I am still figuring it out, and while the interface is VERY user friendly, there are a lot of things that you'll have to figure out on your own. You can embed the images/slideshow into your own blog, however...mine never loaded, so I just decided to do it this way. Once you publish the page, you can then download and save it as a JPEG and then up load it to whatever...a lot of steps, but until I figure out photoshop elements, this will have to do.

It was worth I think though, don't you think?

VERY COOL!

Kid Tested, Hip Mama Approved

This is an AWESOME 1st in a series I'm unveiling....Kid Proof Meals...

No, this is no joke...and the blogosphere is full of reviews on this oh-so-amazing product! It's such a comical gimmick, many bloggers wrote it off as a parody--at first. Well, after a trip to Costco yesterday with the Hip Fam, taking in our fill of samples, we ran across this tasty treat. It was not only GENIUS, it is really YUMMY...here's what the kids had to say,

"I don't like it, I love it!" "YEEEEEESSSSSS, Let's
have a pancake party!"

And there you have it, Kid Tested with 3 thumbs up from the Hip Kids. Hip Mama, liked it too! It is organic and yummy. With 10 times less mess and the fact that any Hip Hubby could handle this completely on his own is an additional plus! The biggest draw back is the price. We bought 3 Cans for about 10 bucks. It's not a budget saving item....it's a time saving, convenient parent friendly tool that tastes good...

It's not filled with hydrogenated oil and other crazy stuff, it's organic, easy to use, tasty and virtually mess free....PRICELESS!

HOMESCHOOL COOL TOOL

I am really tired and know I should go to bed at this God-Forsaken hour...but...in my daily search of cool blogs and websites and tools....

This by Far is the best tool/resource I have found! It is AWESOME!!!!! I am pretty skeptical of "toolbars" but this is totally worth it...I know it says that it uses google search, I already have that and didn't have to or want to disable it despite their claim.

Here is what they claim:

It's free of spyware or viruses, does not open pop-ups or hijack your searches,allows you to control your privacy features such as cookies and cache from the toolbar and no personal information is required. It has a Google powered search box, includes an email notifier where you can add all of your emails accounts in one convenient place such as Yahoo, Google, personal or business. Plus, it will notify you when one of your accounts receives mail!The Homeschool Toolbar features include:

• Homeschool Resources
• The Latest homeschool & Parenting News
• Web search
• using Google
• Integrated RSS feeds
• Homeschool blogs
• Category
• browsing
• Search highlighter
• Other quick shortcuts
• Weather forecast
• Organizing tools such as a To do list, notepad, calculator,
  conversion
  charts, maps and more
• Radio connected to "Positive &
  Encouraging K-LOVE" , NPR or
  your favorite local radio
  station (this feature is optional and can be
  added or removed as can
  all toolbar features.)
• Lastly, it will NOT slow your computer down!

It is WAY More than I expected! Wow...I give this Toolbar the

Hip Mama Seal of Approval! Check it out! (I figured I could uninstall if I hate it!)

Tuesday's Tidy Tidbit: Morning Routine

If you all can think of a better, cuter, hip-er title, Please HELP! LOL! Go back through my blog and you'll find that I dream of being organized, clean & tidy. In my minds eye I see the idyllic wife and mother with the beautifully decorated pottery barn/ikea (is that weird) modern farmhouse home.....and the epitomy of organization, armed with my Franklin Covey Planner and matching tote (BTW I got it 75% off) able to conquer the home school, soccer, and 4-H club effortlessly, all the while I look amazingly Cool & Hip and put together....and my children are perfectly coiffed as well!

Yeah, Right! LOL...hysterically! Not only is that NOT me...I really don't think I'd want to be all of the above, it sounds like I'd be "putting on ayres..."

No, unfortunately you'll find my SAAWEEETT franklin covey planner mostly empty and then I'm on a roll for a couple of months, then empty, then full for a while, it continues like this throughout the year. My house is the same way too. However, as you know, I feel SO MUCH better when I'm using my planner and (mostly) keeping up with the house.

So here are some things that definately help me stay on top of things for sure...and I'm hoping to keep it going for longer than 3 months this time! Let's see how we do! This is mainly for my own accountability but I hope you follow the series....(I don't promise it every week, but...let's see what happens)

Your Morning Routine

This has to be one of the most important aspects of keeping house and sanity in your life and home! I love Flylady. It's a great website, with amazing clues and insight into keeping a house running like a well oiled machine but it could also leave even the most committed women overwhelmed and even confused. You have come to the right place...and we are going to take it one step at a time....

This week's goal is to work on establishing a morning routine. And 1 very simple night time task that you absolutely MUST do before getting into your bed to go to sleep.

1. Wake Up before your kids do! (This has made a huge difference for me...it's been 2 days LOL!

2. Get Dressed (if this includes shower...etc... do that) and put on Tennis Shoes/Sneakers (for all you flip flop die hards like me....trust me...the sneakers are important, I promise!)

3. Wipe down the Bathroom before leaving it....I use store brand "clorox" type wipes starting with the sink and moving toward the toilet (cleanest to dirtiest). Flylady term: Swish & Swipe.

4. Make Bed...

5. Pray, Read, Spend Time with God...and try to pray with the hubby (if you have one and he's willing) before he leaves for work as often as you can. (What a difference this makes--Wow)

AT NIGHT:

6. Flylady Says: " Shine your Sink" meaning make sure your sink is empty (for me it might be one side, because I couldn't fit everything in the Dishwasher) and wiped dry--don't forget to wipe down the faucet and turn dishwasher on if need be.

Here's how I'll be working on it:

First half of the Week Day 1-3:

Items: #1, 2, 5


Add Day 4 :

Item: #3 & #4

Add Day 5:

Item: #6

I promise you, if you try this and can do it for a week and then 2 weeks, it transforms your life. If you can only do #1, 2, & 3 for this week do that....then each week or so add something new!

Good Luck (to me!)


Hip Mama