Green Living in NJ

The Holistic Moms Network was excited to be part of GreenFest 2009 here in New Jersey, a state full of irony being both the Garden State and infamous for being, well, less than "green". But thousands of interested attendees joined us at GreenFest to learn about alternative energy, non-toxic products, eco-conscious living, and to share the wisdom of green celebrities including Bill Nye and Ed Begley, Jr.

It was easy to feel a bit intimidated, though, as the event was packed with vendors ready to show you how to install solar panels or geo-thermal heating or to swap out all of your windows for energy-efficient models. But for those of us who are not ready for big steps or who cannot afford them just yet, Ed Begley, Jr. suggested we "pick the fruit within reach" and start with simple things such as changing our lightbulbs to CFLs, installing weather stripping, or replacing old thermostats with energy efficient versions. He urged us to be fiscally responsible and take on what we can afford, knowing that these changes not only help protect the planet but will also save us all some money.

We thank everyone who helped out at the Holistic Moms Network booth as well as those who stopped by to say "hello" and to learn more about us. It was wonderful to meet so many green-thinking parents, kids, and others and to envision how we can work together to make NJ more green!