Taylor Heinrich

Some of the days in this challenge seemed to blend together for me and because of that, I missed a couple check-ins.  However, I learned a lot from this experience and thought up new ways to further reduce my impact on the world and the environment.  Things like using less water other times throughout the day such as when brushing teeth, washing hands or cleaning dishes.  Turning off the water when your not directly using it can really go a long way.  I really enjoyed using my own bags and it made me think more about the products I was buying also; how much does this weigh, how many resources did it take to make, package and distribute this product to me? Can this product be recycled completely once I am done with the packaging?  This whole challenge made me realize the more weary individuals are about there impact, the more they will think about their choices.     

On the weekends it is easy to eat less and not worry so much about washing your hair.  To be honest, today is usually the day I hammer out a bunch of homework and just relax.  I think the best way to save water is to wash your hair less.  First of all its actually better for your hair not to wash it every day.  Second, washing your body doesn't take more than a minute or two anyhow, and on the days when you do wash your hair turn the water off when lathering and back on again when rinsing.    

I have really enjoyed using my own bags when going into the store.  It has also been fun searching for foods that don't use animal products like vegan cheeses for example and almond milk.  It has been a bit of a challenge taking 5 minute showers but I have been able to manage it pretty well. 

Today I spent a decent amount of time in the shower.  However, I was able to not consume any animal products today.

So today I put half and half in my coffee like a dork! I forgot to put on my reminder wristband this morning which would have helped. Trying to stay positive though and continue trying to do my best with this challenge    

I screwed up yesterday when it came to eating dairy. I was doing so good! I did better today though, mainly because I didn't do anything for the most part. 

I am getting better with the animal product free diet when it comes to remembering to make animal-free choices. I am wearing a bracelet to remind myself in those decision-making times. Today I got soy milk coffee and tofu with no sour cream from Chipotle. I haven't really noticed. 

For my first day of the EcoChallenge, I felt good about the outcome of the next couple weeks.  I have put a couple reusable bags in my car and am prepared for the next time I go to the store.  Not gonna lie, I didn't shower today so I guess I saved, even more, water then I have set out too.  However, the animal-free diet is really impacting me already, I love meat and dairy products and usually eat them on a regular basis at almost every meal.  That will be my greatest challenge during this time.