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There are a couple things I'll mention before I close:
I was able to continue using cloth diapers until Alison was around 20 months. We'd switched to mostly BumGenius and all of a sudden, they started leaking regularly. It might have been her size at the time or possibly something I screwed up with a wash, but I decided to abandon the cloth diapers since they were creating more clothes to wash and I didn't think their benefits were outweighing the drawbacks at that point.
We switched to the generic Target brand of disposables, but I continued to keep an eye out for greener alternatives that worked. Luckily, a couple months later, Alison started to hate diaper change time and showed signs of being ready for potty-training. Over Labor Day weekend last year, I decided to try the Three-Day Potty Training Method. All I did was read this article, try it, and it worked like a charm. I plan to use cloth diapers again when my second arrives.
I also want to thank everyone who sent me their excess children's and maternity clothing! That was just about the best deal ever - for my wallet and the planet. I can't wait to return the favor when we're officially done having babies. If you're still looking for cheap consignment, it might be fun to try Thred Up, which is like a giant mommy exchange, but all online.
Finally, our favorite family activity as of late has been hiking. Every weekend we go to a local park, pack a lunch, and enjoy a couple hours in the sun. Notice that I'm writing this in the winter; we still go every weekend and Alison loves it. I really think that we'll have a true uphill battle in protecting the environment if kids don't understand nature's value and the best way to do so is to spend a TON of time outside. Many outdoor activities are free or cheap. So, get out there and enjoy our wonderful planet!
I'll be posting more adventures on my personal blog: amberswaves.blogspot.com. Hope you'll join me there!
Lake Accotink Park - January 2013
