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Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.

To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?

  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Land + Forests Personal Waste Audit
    What are the results of your waste audit and what did you learn? How can you reduce your waste going forward?

    Mary Gerken's avatar
    Mary Gerken 4/30/2024 7:48 AM
    Plastic is my main source of waste although I've lowered it substantially. It was a GREAT exercise and I plan to continue to do again to see how I'm progressing. It means less times to the trash can! I also have noticed that when I take steps, others notice even if I don't say anything. I am a difference and You too make a difference.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Freshwater + Oceans Low Water Gardening
    What are the most prominent water concerns in your area? Examples include drought, flooding, pollution, access, security, and privatization.

    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft's avatar
    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft 4/30/2024 7:44 AM
    Storm water can be reduced by using rain barrels to collect roof top runoff and then use the water for our property gardens.

  • Mary Gerken's avatar
    Mary Gerken 4/30/2024 7:43 AM
    Well! Sometimes it takes a bit to remember to bring a reusable water bottle or bag, BUT I've GOT it now! It's a strange concept to some because they think - I can recycle that BUT the best to not to use in the 1st place. I have again enjoy the EcoChallenge this April and tomorrow is a new month and the play and work continues!

  • Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft's avatar
    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft 4/30/2024 7:40 AM
    Our EarthCare team requested a rain barrel to collect rain water from our building's rooftop. We plan to use the water for our gardens. I called our utility company and reviewed our building's water and storm water usage, and learned last summer our water usage increased from 3,000 gallons/quarter to 12,000 gallons. Therefore we are hoping to improve our impact on storm water runnoff by using rainbarrels.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Land + Forests Zero Waste Day
    What was hard about having a Zero Waste Day? What did you learn about yourself and your habits?

    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft's avatar
    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft 4/30/2024 7:34 AM
    I have a lot to learn about what plastic wrappings are recyclable. On June 11th, our Unity of Appleton Church will be hosting a tour at our local recyclying center to learn more.

  • Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft's avatar
    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft 4/30/2024 7:32 AM
    Eco gifts i.e. composting garbage bags, stainless steel straws, reusable water containers, laundry soap sheets, were provided to all members, after Sunday's service, which reviewed this past month's accomplished EcoChallenge activities.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Climate + Air Online Energy Audit
    Where did you do an energy audit (work, home, school, other) and what did you learn?

    Mary Gerken's avatar
    Mary Gerken 4/30/2024 7:23 AM
    Did an energy audit at home and learned that there are easy, inexpensive ways to save energy. In some ways it's by using mindfulness that I become aware of where I'm using the energy. The websites through "Learn More" where a great resource.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Land + Forests Zero Waste Day
    What was hard about having a Zero Waste Day? What did you learn about yourself and your habits?

    Mary Gerken's avatar
    Mary Gerken 4/30/2024 7:18 AM
    This is it, the last day of the challenge and although other days I've gotten close, I haven't been able to do a Zero Waste Day! Today is the day! I compost most "waste", it's the plastic I can't get around! I was excited to find a shipping store that takes boxes and packing materials. I don't have lots but I neighbor gets a few from Amazon so took his too! Felt good. Of course, it was only one stop of a few to combine tasks.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Land + Forests Mindful Eating
    What actions did I take during my meal to be more mindful? OR how can mindful eating be helpful to Mother Earth?

    Mary Gerken's avatar
    Mary Gerken 4/30/2024 7:05 AM
    When I am eating mindfully, I am fully immersed with the food that I am taking into my body. I am thankful and then more aware of what "went into" the meal. I will not waste, I will be grateful and therefore honor that which gave to me. I am a vegan, one, of many reasons is becoming mindful when eating.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Land + Forests 30 for 30 in Nature
    What have you noticed about how it feels to spend consistent time outside?

    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft's avatar
    Linda Nett-Duesterhoeft 4/25/2024 7:27 AM
    I discovered new nature trails outside of Madison, and grounded myself by walking barefoot, as well as practicing Tai Chi in barefeet. Also enjoyed identifying new birds I have never noticed before.