On April 22nd, we will celebrate Earth Day. This is an important event and one we should all participate in. To this end, plant a tree in your yard in observance of this important day.

Earth Day was founded by Mr. John McConnell on March 21, 1970.

“When the Vernal Equinox dawned on me, I immediately knew it was right. The Earth tremor that shook our California dwelling at that moment seemed an omen of confirmation. What could be more appropriate than the first moment of spring, when day and night are equal around the world and hearts and minds can join together with thoughts of harmony and Earth’s rejuvenation. Just as a single prayer can be significant, how much more so when hundreds, thousands, millions of people throughout the world join in peaceful thoughts and prayers to nurture neighbor and nature. And so it came to pass we initiated the celebration of Earth Day on March 21, 1970.”

“Earth Day was firmly established for all time on a sound basis as an annual event to deepen reverence and care for life on our planet.” Mr. John McConnell

What better way to observe Earth Day, than to plant a tree in your yard. Mr. McConnell
wrote so eloquently about the importance of this day; it behooves everyone to follow his dream of nature and nurture.

Determine what type of tree you are going to plant and where. Choose a sapling, but do not soak it prior to planting. You don’t have to remove the burlap that encases the sapling, but do remove the ties. Open the burlap sapling and clip the roots which circle the outer part of the root ball. Dig a hole two to five times wider than the root ball. In the bottom and center of the hole, leave a planting base of undisturbed soil. Put the root ball on undisturbed soil flush to two inches over the top of the hole. Hold the tree while backfilling with dirt and soil. Remove grass and weeds within six inches of tree material. With excess soil, build a small boarder around the hole to add water down to the roots; then water and mulch.

We’re still seeking a house, and cannot plant a tree in our apartment obviously. Other options include donating to groups like Tree Fund, and volunteering something even more precious than dollars, your time! Help clean up your local dog park, street, or playground. Just an hour of your time can make a huge difference, not just on Earth Day, but everyday.

A few suggestions of things you can do for Earth Day, and every day;
* Recycle as much as you can.
* If age appropriate, have your kids walk or bike ride to school.
* When not at home, keep lights off.
* Make posters with your child and display them at school or at home.
* Ensure you are preserving water by checking leaky faucets.
* Conserve water by not leaving water on when brushing teeth.
* Limit time in the shower.
* Wash car less often.
* Replace filter in air conditioner often.
* When shopping at grocery store, use recyclable bags.
* Volunteer to help clean up your local park
* Teach kids how to grow plants and herbs
* Build a birdhouse in your backyard

These simple actions help the environment and set a good example for future generations to help take care of the earth by reducing waste and pollution. Every little bit helps, no matter how small it may seem at first.

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