Finally today the sun in shining! Every Iowan rejoices as we see a small glimpse of what warmer weather brings and the overwhelming feeling that love is in the air. Well, I guess Hallmark, jewelry stores and chocolate shops are the ones reminding us that love is in the air but hey is love really a bad thing? If there was more love in the world wouldn’t there be less hate? So, if people had more love for recycling wouldn’t there be less waste? (Yes, Hallmark, I’m available for writing cards.)

With each approaching holiday, celebrated here in the States, always gives me a feeling of uneasiness. I mean who doesn’t like an excuse to dress up, eat good food and have great conversation? If you want to throw in a gift of flowers, chocolate or even a lovely message in a card, please be my guest (we all love gifts at RMI!). However, all of this creates copious amounts of waste and can damage the environment in the process if you don’t choose wisely. No matter how you view the holiday or what you do to celebrate don’t forget to send a little love to Mother Earth in the process.

There are many amazing local restaurants that support your local farmer no matter where you live (Fresh Cafe, Proof, New World Cafe, Cafe di Scala, Gramercy Tap and Gusto to name a few in DSM), fair trade/organic chocolate is available at many stores (Gateway Market, Campbell’s Nutrition and New City Market are some options) along with SO MANY amazing local stores with gifts galore that can swoon over your valentine and not hurt the environment in the process (the entire East Village, Valley Junction and Beaverdale areas not to forget the Roosevelt Shops, The Museum Shop in the Art Center, and massage deals at places like Complete Wellness). As you can see the list can go on and on and on.

As I remind myself that RecycleMe Iowa was born to fight for adequate recycling programs, to ReThink about what we do with our waste and provide individuals with an opportunity to support a valued recycling service no matter what apartment building, small business or event you are connected to. With our love for recycling we are helping create a happier, healthier world, allowing people the opportunity to make a difference every day.

However you choose to share your love this holiday, don’t forget that you have the choice to be a part of the solution and not the problem.