footprints

Today I want to talk about feet, but mostly footprints.

I'm realizing lately the importance of quality footwear. I'm not usually a person who talks about ((shoes.)) But, good shoes can really change your outlook about being outside. They can give you comfort, confidence, and energy or they can make you sad and hurty and want to go back home. I paid a little extra last fall when I replaced my running shoes, and it still feels like walking on air every time I use them. I got great boots for my trip to Europe and New York, and I could trek around the cities the entire day without feeling too casual or uncomfortable. Today I bought hiking boots (well, a birthday gift from my mom), and I think they predict a successful summer as an avid hiker in this beautiful city. The sun shone all day, and everything was as green and bright as Emerald City and every hard surfaced reflected light. It felt clean. I still hold by my theory that living somewhere with bad weather part of the year inspires you appreciate the good even more.

And now to footprints. I've been thinking a lot about my carbon footprint. I have been making great strides into being, in my opinion, a better human being. Not that I judge people that eat big hamburgers or gorge on cheese (well, that's not true), but I do think the things I do to eliminate the unnecessary suffering of other living creatures make me better. Which is why I do them. Plus, it makes me feel better health wise and doesn't hurt the wallet and is great for my bod. :) Win win! I'm still not perfect, of course, but I'm trying.

My next steps: WALK EVERYWHERE! I can get to so many things by foot. I don't have much need for my car, so saving the environment AND gas money are huge pluses. The bus system is decent here so that, combined with using my feet = lowering my carbon footprint even more! It disgusts me that the lowest I've ever been footprint wise is still insanely higher than the rest of the WORLD'S average!

Another challenge I have for myself is to go one whole day a week without the use of ANY electronics. No computer, no phone, no ipod, no stereo. Maybe no lights, either. I love using candles at night anyway. Why does that sound so scary and impossible! That sickens me. I feel a little bit like a hypocrite and an addict at the same time. I'm going to make myself do it, though, and see if it makes me realize anything about myself or society.

Today's blog was pretty inspirational--this guy is a little eXtreme, but I think he has some really great ideas on how to make your life the exact life you want.

http://crazysexylife.com/2010/how-i-transformed-my-life/