Use Whatcha Got

We here at MaxxSilly are proud to be participating in Blog Action Day 2009. This years theme is climate change and since it is October 15 and it is snowing outside my window I'm going to say something ain't right. Seriously. Snow on October 15. No need.

We do lots in our home to be green. We're just starting out, but we have made some huge strides in the past couple of months. Our biggest thing is using what we have in new ways. Re-purposing is the way to go. Everyone is doing it - movies, fashion and music. Everything old is new again - just slightly Botoxed.

Here are some of the things we do:
RE-purpose. I went through a phase where I collected vintage teapots from yard sales and flea markets. Then I realized I am not the Queen of England. So I re-purposed them as plant holders and flower pots. Put a few rocks on the bottom (Rocks are free. Crazy right?). Add some dirt and plant your stuff. Pretty planters for $0 and you save on having to drive to the store and buy something.

Get the kids involved. Our dining room wall art came courtesy of our artist-in-residence. I gave our little Pollock some white paper and crayons and let her go nuts. We worked on it for a few days and everyone who visits loves it. You never know, if she hits it big we could already own a masterpiece. We call it her drool period.

Craft it. Ever watch those shows where they redecorate someones house for $5 and they magically turn a paper clip into a credenza? Well, it's easier than it looks. Got an old picture frame? Head over to the craft store and drop 50 cents (money, not the rapper) on some acrylic paint. Grab a household sponge and go nuts. This is fun for kids because this paint is easily washable . You have a brand new frame.

What have you guys re-purposed? Was it a great thrift find? Some drapes into dresses? Let's hear what you got!

Now, where is my shovel?