celebrating earth day with the littles

Earth Day is April 22nd, 2014.  What does that mean, you ask?  Well, unofficially it was always a day I tried to at least plant a tree, or attend an expo, most often than not though I ended up just using less water or electricity.  This earth is our temporary home, and I believe we do have a responsibility to keep it clean, and help provide a good future for our children, and their children. 

Officially, Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which events are held worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year.

I've put together a list of some things we can do to help give back, that helps not only our Earth, but those around us as well.  And of course, I threw in some yummy Earth Day inspired treats!  I would love to hear what you do for Earth day, or what you plan to do this year.  Comment and inspire others to make a difference. 

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I officially want to make these Lit Paper Mache Globes over at Housing A Forest. 

Go on a nature walk.  If you have littles, have them help you identify the different plant species along the way.  Maybe you'll even learn something in the process. Amazon sells this adorable Nature Walk Kit that your little one can use to collect finding from the day.  

Connect to the earth and our Creator.  Take the day to lounge in the sunshine, feel the breeze, walk barefoot in the cool grass and just thank God for all the beauty He has created and pray on how He would like you to give back. 

Recycle!  If your neighborhood doesn't recycle, you can gather all of your recycling once a week and take it to a recycling center or recycling bin.

Bag it up.  For the week of April 21st, commit to ONLY using reusable shopping bags when you go shopping.  If you do it for a week or two, it will become an easier habit to remember. 

Friendly Muffins.  Make awesome DYE-FREE, GLUTEN-FREE & Top 8 Allergen-Free Earth Day muffins using blackberries and spinach to color them! Click here for the recipe. 

Serve an Earth Friendly Meal.  Serve organic veggies and food that is in season. To prepare the meal grow your own ingredients, visit a farm to pick it yourself, or visit a farmer's market.  Move your dinner table outside to dine under the stars and invite friends over  to enjoy your fresh, non-processed meal.  Decorate your table with flowers from your own yard, and use cloth napkins and placemats. 

Turn It Off.  Remember when you leave a room to always turn off your lights, fans and electronics! 

And yes, these "Sweet Seedlings" dessert.... 

Visit PureElla for these amazingly beautiful little treats.