It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas..... and this year since we had to replace our Christmas lights anyway we decided to go for the latest invention. LED lights. We wanted green ones but there were none to be found so we opted for blue. While most people have heard of LED's ( light emitting Diodes ) by now, you may not be a fan yet . I've heard comments like "the plastic looks cheap" ( true, when they're off, ) but who wants to admire them unlit anyway ? What's really great though is the amount of energy and money they will save ! according to the box, running 600 of the old fashioned outdoor lights ( the big glass ones ) for 6 hours a day, costs about$ 31.30 for a month. running 600 LED ( light emitting Diodes ) lights for 6 hours a day for a month will only cost you about 45 cents ! a savings of $30.85 ! Not only that but because they last such a long time you won't be throwing them out anytime soon, & adding to our landfill waste problems. They won't break like the glass ones either , or burn little fingers as they stay cool to the touch. When the ones one our tree pack it in, we'll be trying out the new indoor mini LED lights too ! Happy December everyone !
Other Ideas for an environmentally friendly Christmas :
- buy a live tree & plant it next spring
- If you get a real tree, compost it or have it chipped instead of throwing it in the landfill, real trees are a renewable resource.
- string your tree with dried cranberries or popcorn, then leave it outside for the birds when Christmas is over. You can even compost the needles when they fall off or use as mulch ( unless you are in a fire interface area)
- recycle last years Christmas cards as this years gift tags.
- reuse bows & ribbons that are in good shape.
- use your talent & creativity...most people LOVE homemade gifts !
