The day is almost over and I have STILL not posted for Blog Action Day. I meant for this post to be way better than it is - I intended to put some real time and thought into it, but some real life circumstances have come up this past weekend that prevent me from doing that. If I get a chance, I will post about that tomorrow.

But today is Blog Action Day, and that means that bloggers around the world are all blogging about the environment. I’ve got a few tips/thoughts/links to share.

There’s a GREAT list of ways to get started over on Blog Action Day website, so make sure that you check out the 50 Quick, Painless Ways You Can Help the Environment Today.

Some simple things that I’ve done to help are reducing the amount of paper I use when printing by using the amazing software GreenPrint, making the switch to compact fluorescent lightbulbs in my apartment (now available at Wal-Mart, Costco, and the grocery store - this one is too easy), and getting rid of all that junk mail (which wastes paper, ink, gas for the trucks, and energy) by utilizing GreenDimes. You can read more about my posts regarding green living here on my blog.

I’ve also got some great green links on the sidebar. One in particular that I want to point out is TreeHugger - this is an AMAZING resource, and contains great information and links to get you really started on a greener lifestyle.

It’s awesome to do something like install solar panels, buy an energy efficient car, or offset your carbon emissions. But in all honesty, we can’t all afford to do those things (though it is important to note that these things are becoming more affordable every day - it’s quite remarkable actually). But all the little things add up. By each little contribution you make, not matter how insignificant or easy it may seem, it will help.

What ways have you found to help our environment - I’m always on the lookout for great green tips and resources!

“On October 15th, bloggers around the web will unite to put a single important issue on everyone’s mind - the environment. Every blogger will post about the environment in their own way and relating to their own topic. Our aim is to get everyone talking towards a better future.”

I’m going to be joining in with Blog Action Day - green living is something that I’m currently working on, so this is right up my alley! Join us and let all our voices be heard!

Environmentalists concerned with species reaching extinction are finding trouble with gaining support for those critters not popular or cute. Won’t someone save the ayeaye? Read article.

Seriously kids, that’s not computer generated! That animal actually exists!

Image found at Treehugger.com

Thirteen Things I Have Gained from Blogging

1. In honor of the retirement of the Thursday Thirteen, I figured this was an appropriate theme. And number one on my list is the confidence I have gained from the Thursday Thirteen! My blog wasn’t read by many before the T13, and when the first set of management changes happened, Leanne trusted me enough to be one of the new co-hostesses of the T13! This brought me new readers, thus boosting my confidence. My posts are VERY different now than they were pre-13, and so most of the things I have gained from blogging came out of the T13!!

2. Friendships! I have met so many amazing people through blogging, and that is soooo the stereotypical answer, but it is very true.

3. A new outlet for writing! I used to write creatively alllllll the time, but once I got into college I was writing so much for my classes that I didn’t want to write anymore. Blogging brought me a way to write and enjoy it again, and it’s even renewed my desire to write creatively!

4. My 101 in 1001 has given me a visible platform to write down goals that I’ve been wanting to achieve, and an audience to keep me accountable.

5. The Works-for-Me Wednesday meme has given me so many fantastic tips that I have used in my everyday life!

6. Through blogging I found FlyLady, which is a life altering event! ‘Nuff said!

7. Also through blogging I found Bookcrossing.com, which has revolutionized my thoughts on books and has jumpstarted my pleasure reading, which also stagnated with all my college reading!

8. As I have discussed before, I was very environmentally-conscious when I was younger. Blogging brought that back!

9. As someone who is committed to breast health awareness, blogging has been a great platform for sharing what I know and connecting with women on something that may save their lives!

10. An outlet, of course! When I get excited or worked up about something, online is on of the first places that I go!

11. Blogging has also led me into the world of personal finance management. It’s made me aware as I am leaving college on the importance of saving, budgeting, and investing, something that I will be thankful for for the rest of my life!

12. Blogging on my personal blog has led me to create another blog, Reading Red Letters, my faith blog. This has been a great way to connect with other Christians online, and has led me to many great online blogs and resources that have aided me in my walk.

13. And, in case there was any doubt . . . BLOGGING IS FUN!!!!!!!!!

Thanks so much for a great couple of years with the T13!!! I have so much enjoyed getting to know people, and I hope to stay in touch with you as we continue blogging!!!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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