Tomorrow’s the big day that turkeys all over the country arbor – Thanksgiving. But, don’t forget to keep green living in mind, even if you don’t forsake your traditional turkey for a meatless, tofu turkey.
How can you keep Thanksgiving green? There are plenty of ways. First, try to make your dinner out of locally grown foods. Consider purchasing organic products. You may even be able to find an organic free-range turkey. These animals are not kept confined in cages as many are. These turkeys are going to cost more, but it is believed that free-range meat is better because there is less health issues among the animals thus more nutritious for us.
Another way to green up your Thanksgiving is to use those good dishes. If your family is like my family, there will be about 20 people over for dinner. Often times we will use paper plates to keep from cleaning so many dishes later. Yes, we are a lazy family. But, it’s greener to use real dishes and wash them after eating – it reduces waste.
If you are in need of a table decoration, consider a green centerpiece. Gather some apples, pinecones, berries, acorns – anything natural and put it in a vase or basket. Buy some fresh cut flowers from the store or better yet, get some from your own garden.
If the weather is nice in your area (we are finally having a break in the rain here), open up those windows and let some fresh air in rather than using air conditioning. If it is too cold and you have a fireplace, start that up. It will only help add to the holiday spirit.
Most of all, really give thanks for all you have. The country is in a tough economic time and many people won’t even have enough food for Thanksgiving. Consider inviting someone you know won’t have anywhere else to go join you and your family for dinner or better yet, have your whole family go work at the local food bank to help feed others.