This started me thinking of ways we can all live a greener and environmentally friendly life in 2011.

1- If you cannot adopt an animal from a rescue then at least make a donation to help them take care of the ones left behind.

2- With the economy finally loosening up a bit, remember all the organizations and charities that have suffered the past few years and give them a bit, even $5 really helps.

3- Make sure to conserve at home, it all starts with us individuals! Turn the water off while soaping the dishes, or brushing your teeth. Check for gaps on doors and windows to keep more heat inside.

4- Help your favorite charities by posting and tweeting about them. If you share with your friends what you care about, maybe they will also.

5- When the weather is bad, ask your neighbors if they need anything. They may be elderly or unable to get out because of snow.

6- Don’t throw trash on the sidewalk leaving a trail behind you, like there’s someone there to pick up after you. There isn’t! And PLEASE pick up after your dog! Between the snow, slush, trash and dog poop it’s a mess out there!

7- Be sure to eat healthy foods. Too much junk food, fattening foods or alcohol without any exercise is a bad thing.

8- Try to recycle as much as you can around the house. Reuse plastics and paper.

9- Unplug what isn’t in use, saving on electricity.

10 – Practice what you preach. (I’m going to do more of all of these!)

Photo from iStockPhoto.com

More than ever, I can’t help but notice the ridiculous ads that come up during the commercial breaks. I totally understand that if it weren’t for these advertisers, CNN or other news channels wouldn’t be on the air, or be able to pay the reporter’s and crew’s salaries and expenses when they travel to places like Haiti and we’ve got to have them, otherwise how would we stay informed. See the reality of it all.

I wonder sometimes what these advertisers are thinking? When I see advertising for luxury cars, luxury vacations, and the pharmaceutical products, most of which we don’t need, how can they put these ads up during times of crisis and think we’ll be interested in what they’re selling?

I must say that when I see an ad where a sports celebrity or company has created a new and timely ad, one where they are saying they will be donating to help the cause, I’m much more likely to respect that company and perhaps buy their product in the future.

Thanks for inventing the mute button. That helps.