Welcome back to the GREEN SCENE, where progressive people, places and products aim to enlighten and empower us to live sustainably. Regardless of where our lifestyle is on the green continuum, each one of us can and should take simple steps to improve the state of our local and global environment.

December is the month of Winter Solstice - a time of reflection and rebirth. This time of year darkness seems to capture the day, enveloping it and quieting the earth. The reality is the darkest days we experience are beginning to lengthen, albeit slowly. Change to a green sustainable way of life happens the same way – incrementally. The key to progress is never accepting the status quo – continually asking ourselves what simple step we can make towards a greener more sustainable lifestyle. For some of us it might be buying recycled or products/packaging we can recycle. Others, like me might be considering solar panels for the garage or contacting the Maplewood city council to change the animal code ordinance so residents can raise chickens. Now you know my chicken aspirations, my poultry dreams – which my husband can vouch for since I have asked him to build a solar powered chicken coop. He’s told me “good luck with that”, but I think there is still a chance provided I can inspire him with baked goods.