3 R's

Reuse, reduce and recycle.
Now, everyone knows that I love to shop; however, in the last few years, I've made a concerted effort to really think before I buy something. I mean, I took a look in my closet and realized just how many clothing items I have, so I've been bringing things to homeless shelters, food pantries and other charities. These are things I don't wear and, I think we all know that 'rule'-If you haven't worn it in 1 year, when ARE you going to wear it? Answer-never. (Well, for the most part anyway.) It feels good to give things that I know someone else can use and I certainly don't need that much. And, frankly, it's kind of embarrassing thinking of having bought things I don't need!
I try and think what will really add to my wardrobe, be long lasting and flatter my shape. I think every woman struggles with that, you know?
So I guess that goes under-reduce and, possibly recycle (when donating the clothes).
I also bought some reusable grocery bags. I try and buy organic whenever I can and I know it's healthier and better for our local economy. After all, I own a small business and, for the most part, local farms are small, family businesses! The store I go to most often is a bit of a ride, but they have the best organic meat and produce!
However, I even see the reusable bags in all the supermarkets in my neighborhood and I'm sure there are some at the store where you shop-so pick a few up and feel good about reusing, instead of killing another 'plastic tree' with all those plastic bags! And, buying local produce and meat actually reduces the gas used by those big trucks to bring everything here from far away! Another way to reduce!
Under reuse I think we can talk about water bottles. I mean, we own a Fitness Center and we do sell bottled water; however, many people point out those are plastic. True- and we would recycle if we had *any* space in which to do so but, sadly, we do not. Many of our clients bring in their own water bottles and reuse them, which is great! We basically have the water for sale for those who forget theirs or new folks who don't know they should bring any.
If you're reusing a water bottle, just remember to clean it thoroughly and often. Germs can grow in there and you certainly don't want to miss out on your workouts by being sick!
Try and think of little ways you can use the 3R's in your own life and you might end up with more space in your closet, a good feeling about those grocery bags and even a cute water bottle to carry around on your travels!