Celebrate Earth Day: Small Sustainable Outings to Make a Difference

As we celebrate our beautiful planet today, I wanted to share some simple yet meaningful ways we can all connect with nature while treading lightly on the earth. These small sustainable outings don't require extensive planning or resources, but they can make a real difference—both for the environment and for your own wellbeing.

Happy Earth Day! 🌎

Small changes create big impact. Today (and every day), let's remember the little things that help our planet breathe easier:
Planting more trees in our communities and yards
Switching to LED bulbs that use 75% less energy
Having a garden
Saying goodbye to single-use cups and hello to reusables
Bringing your own bags when you shop
Hitting that power button instead of standby mode
Going paperless with digital receipts
Composting food scraps
Choosing products with less packaging waste

Local Park Clean-Up Adventure

Instead of just visiting your neighborhood park, turn it into a purposeful outing by bringing along a reusable bag and gloves to collect litter as you explore. This simple act not only beautifies your local green space but prevents harmful materials from entering waterways and harming wildlife. Make it social by inviting friends to join you, or turn it into a friendly competition to see who can collect the most recyclables!

Farmers Market Expedition

Skip the supermarket this weekend and head to your local farmers market instead. Bring your own reusable bags and containers to stock up on fresh, seasonal produce grown by local farmers. The food travels fewer miles to reach your table (reducing carbon emissions), typically uses fewer pesticides, and supports your local economy. Take time to talk with the vendors—they often have wonderful tips for preparing their products and might share insights about their sustainable farming practices.

Nature Journaling Retreat

Pack a small notebook, pencils, and perhaps some watercolors, and head to a natural area—a park, botanical garden, or even your backyard. Spend a few hours observing and documenting what you see through sketches, notes, or poems. This mindful practice helps develop a deeper connection with nature and cultivates appreciation for the small wonders we often overlook. Plus, it costs nothing and leaves no carbon footprint!

Final Thoughts

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By Jessica Watts September 3, 2025
To the small businesses who showed up with beauty, knowledge and talent- Thank you! It was the best morning. ❤️ @shopshapero @audracedrone @verylovelysoles @myfavoriteyogastrap @ajgsieger 📸: @hudvalleyphoto
By Jessica Watts August 26, 2025
When you think of New York, your mind immediately goes to towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the relentless energy of the city that never sleeps. But I want to challenge that narrow perception entirely. Instead of concrete and steel, picture rolling farmland.
By Jessica Watts August 21, 2025
Photos by Hudson Valley Photo
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