Did I fall off the grid?
My PG&E bill was $13.72 for the month of April. I thought there must be a mistake. I knew I was conserving but that was a little extreme. Upon closer examination I saw that there was a California Climate Credit.
Yippee I thought - I love getting money back for conservation. My joy was short lived when I discovered that the credit results from industries paying for their pollution. We consumers will continue to receive these credits in April and October. I would gladly give up the credit for less pollution.
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Water - It's a terrible thing to waste
If you live in California then you know about the drought. Even if you didn't watch the news you could simply see it by looking out your window or watching the fires burn so early in the year. Because of the drought I do my very best to conserve water, now more than ever. But I admit that I am frustrated. Although I am saving water (using less than ever) I can't save any money by doing it.
My town requires that we pay for water in 1000 gallon increments and that first 1000 gallon level is a little pricy. I often use well under the 1000 gallons but get no price break for that. This tiered system puts conservationists at a real disadvantage and in my mind does nothing to encourage others to use less. The previous town I lived in charged for each gallon used. Folks were way more conscious of their use and could save money by reducing their use. This won't stop me from conserving but I may become more of an activist in trying to change the system.
Even though the reports are dire, you can do something to help. Several new sites are dedicated to helping us SAVE.OUR.WATER
You can calculate your home water usage, inside and outside
Conservation -
a variety of resources for reducing and saving water as well as a source of other helpful sites
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Eco - DIY
I love the look of slate but would never tackle the installation of it myself, particularly given the nature of stone and its proclivities. But there is a "new slate" in town and it is a snap to install. This slate is called "Slate-ish" and it hails from Nebraska, my state of origin.
Slate-ish looks a lot like slate but is made from recycled materials so you can feel good about using this material in your home. Another great advantage is that it is a light weight material compared to real slate tiles. Lots of interesting patterns and ways to use this awesome material. Check out this New slate.
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The invasion has begun
I was assaulted by a mosquito in early April. That is just too darn early for me. If you are like me, you don't care for the commercial mosquito repellants. Here is a bug spray This natural spray uses essential oils and non-GMO glycerin to ward off the pests. Smell great and repel bugs - Win.Win. Recipe is Here
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Stay cool and! safe
Marie L. Brown, LEED AP ID + C
Eco-Chic Design 
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