After researching the matter for a couple of weeks, I decided to make a change in my home . . . a lighting change.

5 minutes on any “green” website will tell you that switching from incandescent light bulbs to fluorescent light bulbs is a VERY smart move. Fluorescent light bulbs use significantly less wattage which means that they use a lot less energy. Less energy usage = fewer resources (which is better for the environment) and smaller costs to you on your monthly power bill. Sounds perfect, eh?

The complaint has always been that the light they provide looks garish, because it is still a fluorescent light. However, after reading on websites that the lighting had improved significantly, I decided to go to the store to look for the squiggly light bulbs.

Imagine my surprise when I happened upon the light bulbs in Harris Teeter. Yes, regular grocery store. And while there were some squiggly light bulbs, I was delighted to discover a bulb that looked just like a regular light bulb. 16 watt bulb that has the appearance of a 60 watt bulb. Cost - $8.50. I bought three and scampered home.

Imagine my delight and wonderment when I turned on my lamps in my room AND COULDN’T TELL THE DIFFERENCE!!!!! I called my roommates into my room, individually, and they couldn’t tell a difference either! These light bulbs create light that looks just like regular light bulbs, and they are supposed to last 6 years!!!!!!!

According to the website, my new Philips Marathon Classic 60 light bulbs:

* Philips Marathon Classic energy savers feature advanced SmartBase Technology™ and ALTO® Lamp Technology to create smaller compact fluorescent light bulbs that are better for the environment
* Use up to 70% less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs, saving you money on your utility bills
* Provide a soft white light ideal for any room in your home
* Last up to 6 years, saving you the hassle of replacing burnt out light bulbs
* Are Energy Star qualified

I’m in absolute awe over here! And I’m going to go back to the store and get more to replace the other light bulbs in the apartment. I mean, seriously, these are amazing. And supposedly Wal-Mart is starting to sell them, so they’re available everywhere.

If helping save our planet isn’t enough of an incentive, think about how much money you could save on your power bill, and PLEASE go out and buy these for your home! Just replacing one light bulb will make a big difference!

Better for the environment, cheaper monthly bills, AND you can’t tell a difference?! Works for me!