Monday, June 6, 2011

Out of the mouths - and minds - of babes

My friend, Doug, and his grandson Jaden were out following a turtle around their yard this weekend.

"You know, grandpa, I'm not just an ordinary boy," Jaden said.

"You're not?" Doug, answered, as they knelt down to peer inside the shell of the hiding turtle.

"No, grandpa, I'm a nature boy."

It made my heart skip a little beat when I heard that story. Doug and Jaden are always out wandering around the yard or building bird houses or exploring the crawling critters in their gardens and it's interactions like that which give me hope for a future generation that cares about the planet.

Then, today, I read this article about 9-year old Mason Perez in Reno, Nevada who came up with an idea to help home owners and businesses save money and water. The idea?: turning down the pressure on the water intake valve on kitchen and bathroom sinks, especially in public bathrooms. I mean, how many times have you been in a public bathroom and tried to wash your hands and been just flooded with water? Makes as little sense as the motion sensor faucets that keep running long after you've finished washing your hands.

Yeah, the kids are all right. And if we keep encouraging them, I think the planet might just be all right, too.

Artistic Rain Barrels up for Auction

During our recent Rain Barrel survey, several people said that they think rain barrels are ugly. But Fairfax County, Virginia is hoping to change that opinion with their Artistic Rain Barrel Program.

Throughout April and May, 25 rain barrels decorated by local artists have been on display throughout Northern Virginia at local libraries, schools, community centers and businesses.

These one-of-a-kind works of art were created as a fun way to educate the community on the benefits of using rain barrels to improve water quality.

On Saturday, June 11, 5 - 7 p.m., these works of art will be auctioned at Green Spring Gardens with proceeds going to support the regional rain barrel program.

You can see photos of all of the decorated rain barrels here, as well as read artist biographies. Pick your favorite and then place a bid at the Rain Barrel Auction

Please RSVP for the silent auction event to Taylor Beach. Please include the number of people who will attend.

Directions to Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22312.

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