I know, you're all expecting a blog about the history of Earth Day and its deeper meaning. Sorry to disappoint. I'm not going there this year. Maybe next year.

Today we're going to talk about something a little different, courtesy of my friend, Meg, who you can find over at Meg's Single Step. She recently put up an awesome post about the 3/50 Project, and in light of the pseudo-holiday, I thought this was a great time for me to blatantly poach from her blog.

The 3/50 project is  a community approach to improving the economy. With these hard times, the people who are hit the hardest are the small independent stores, rather than the giant retailers. Let's face it folks, Wal-Mart ain't going anywhere, but your neighborhood shops might be. The project simply asks retail shoppers to spend $50 a month at any three of their favorite independent shops. To be clear: that is $50 TOTAL, not each. How you break it up is completely your own doing. So, maybe instead of hitting Hallmark to buy birthday cards, you get your stash at a local craft store. Another idea? Well, I know my dad always gets his beer at an independent liquor store, no MGM superstore for him. How about picking up some fresh fruits and veggies at the farmer's market this summer, rather than at the chain grocers?

There are lots of easy ways that people can participate to help save small stores. I am just about putting it on your radar so that it is something you think of when you're out retailing. Be sure and read the link to the 3/50 Project, they give some great facts about how much better you'll be spending your money by supporting independents.

Save the economy-seems like a good concept for Earth Day, hmm? And now my work here is done, my good deed for the day is complete.

36 days.