Cut down your own Christmas tree this year. Not only will you be getting the entire family out for some fresh air and exercise – you will also be supporting a local farmer vs. buying trees that have been shipped in from all over the country. We literally have dozens of tree farms in and around the Santa Cruz Mountains, just a short drive away from most of us. Many of them have picnic areas so you can enjoy a home-made brunch in the trees!
Support a local school by letting them pick up and recycle your trees after the holidays, most will do so for a small donation.
Being an avid gardener, born and raised in Indiana, I feel incredible blessed to live in sunny California & be able to grow my own food all year-round! I write a monthly garden column for the San Jose Mercury News & am constantly striving for tips & ideas on how to live a little more gently in regards to ourselves, our planet & each other – basically sustainability we can live with! As a 
