I think everyone finds it challenging to be truly environmental during the holiday season.  We light fires, cut down trees, wrap presents in paper and go shopping.  I have started making gifts for my friends – this year, flavored olive oil in a reusable bottle.  My family still gets whatever they want – although I’m always more inclined to buy useful things.  But the season is over, the trees and boxes have been put on the curb and taken away.  I wanted to make new year’s resolutions this year, but the ones I could think of were the classics – save money, exercise more, keep a journal.  And they’re all unlikely to stick for more than a couple of months.  So I heard several people suggest that resolutions aren’t the way to go.  One person suggested trying to think of a word that you want to describe your life for this year and use that word as inspiration whenever you need it.  One person suggested thinking of small things that you can do often that added up could make a difference – for instance, take the stairs instead of the elevator.  I think that’s how I feel about working to become more environmental.  Maybe this year is the year to bring bags or recycle paper bags when grocery shopping.  Since I think it’s important, periodically I’m going to keep suggesting small ways to make a difference.  I’m going to keep reading (mangroves is the next topic) and trying to keep up with everything that’s going on.