[] Get some geek toys at Think Geek

[] Lately, I have been running Ubuntu as the operating system on most of my computers. I switched from opensuse, but I also use various versions of Microsoft Windows, FreeBSD, SLAX, CentOS, and others.

Going "green" is like losing weight, it's a lifestyle change and takes commitment.

[] Ed Begley, Jr. wrote a book titled "Living like Ed, A Guide to the Eco-friendly Life" that's inspiring. Look for it at your local library. I'm not a tree hugger, but his strategy is easy to follow...pick the low hanging fruit first, or the easiest and least expensive changes to make towards a sustainable lifestyle. For the past three years I have been using a reel mower (not REAL mower), manual edger, and manual shears and trimmers on about half of my yard. It's more work compared to using gas or electric tools and is why I only do half my yard at this time, but it's also great exercise. (remember, I mentioned losing weight and this is part of it)

[] Rain barrels are an easy way to save money on my water bill. I have several cisterns, ranging from 15 to 275 gallons each, and will expand my rain water collection over time until I reach my goal of providing 100% of my garden and landscaping with collected rain water.

[] The square foot gardening process from Mel Bartholomew, originator and author, makes sense with increased efficiency over standard row gardening. It's easy and saves me money.

[] Ride a bike. I've discovered that I can ride my bike to the local discount department, home improvement, and electronics stores in only ten minutes. The same amount of time it takes to drive and park. So, I may be sweating a little when I get there, profusely if it's hot, but it's great exercise and saves money on gas. I pull a kid cart behind the bike when I get larger items.

[] Convenience, get over it. At least some of it. On my journey towards the goal of living a more sustainable lifestyle I've discovered that some conveniences can be given up without too much pain. And this makes it easier to move onto the next low hanging fruit.

[] For most people green is more than just saving the Earth, it's about the green in their pocket. Do some research before jumping on the green wagon and you'll add to the green in your pocket rather then spend it on some new green fad item. Think renewable: the library, recycling, freecycle, craigslist free items, and sharing the knowledge. Make small changes. It really does get easier.

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