After looking at my blog stats for this year, I’ve decided we need to make 2024 the year of more fun at work. Find out why in week 46 of The Sunday Spark. Also this week: reasons to buy local Christmas trees, sustainable tire options, and low-waste gift wrap.
November 2023 roundup – Great reads and goals update
Along with my monthly goals update, my November roundup has terrific posts on the functions and risks of protein, how to have an eco-friendly Christmas, the power of connection, the state of America, AI-enhanced blogging, and love.
The Sunday Spark – Thoughts on 2023’s Person of the Year
In week 45 of The Sunday Spark, my thoughts on Taylor Swift as 2023’s Person of the Year. Plus: a look at AI’s water consumption, nerdy tree facts, calcium content of plant-based milk, and sustainable hostess gifts.
Throwback Thursday – Frugal tips to save money this Christmas
With just over two weeks to go until Christmas, you’re probably making a list and, thanks to the high cost of living, checking it more than twice. If you’re looking for ways to save money this Christmas, you’re in the right place.
Spending time in nature – Just what the doctor ordered!
Is spending time in nature just what the doctor ordered? This month’s lead post in the Climate Change Collective is from Alison at A Sustainably Simple Life who tells the story of her experience disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with nature. As I read Alison’s story, I recalled a program I heard about recently where doctors prescribe spending time in nature for their patients
The Sunday Spark – What to do with a lucky windfall?
What would you do with a lucky windfall close to Christmas? Would you give it to charity, use it to buy Christmas gifts, or treat yourself? Find out what I did in week 44 of The Sunday Spark.
Also this week: a look at carbon capture, 3D printing, the climate impact of the rich, and sustainable stocking stuffers.
Roundup of ways to simplify your Christmas celebrations
One of my favourite lines in the movie Christmas Vacation is, “I don’t know what to say except it’s Christmas and we’re all in misery.” If you’re feeling a bit like Ellen Griswold as Christmas approaches, you’re in the right place! Today’s post is a roundup of ideas to help you get back to basics and simplify your Christmas celebrations.
The Sunday Spark – We Will Meet Again, a poem
In week 43 of The Sunday Spark, a poem about the loss of a faraway relative. Plus, the difference between essential oils and fragrance oils, ice cream innovation, Thriftmas, and recycled gift exchanges.
Throwback Thursday – Say NO to Black Friday
Tomorrow is Black Friday, but did you know it’s also Buy Nothing Day?
Today’s Throwback Thursday post is from 2021. It looks at alternatives to Black Friday shopping for those who want so simplify life and tame the out-of-control consumption that’s harming our health and our planet.
Just say “Hi” on World Hello Day
Today is World Hello Day—a day that encourages us to take the time to exchange a smile, wave and simple hello with 10 people we meet throughout the day. The goal of the day is to demonstrate the importance of simple communication in preserving peace.