Reduce, reuse, recycle: lessons learned during summer

I've had a few people asking how things were going on a couple of post items, so I will do a catch-all update:

• Cheap-o-dad has not filled up his gas tank all summer long. He is down to about a 1/16th of a tank, but with clear skies forecast for this week, and Labor Day within tasting distance, I think we can call it good. He's gotten into great shape over the summer, has saved money and gas, and better yet, has inspired some co-workers to walk or bike to work as well
• I'm making those cloth napkins, darnit. Y'all have inspired me. I've given up the idea of natural dyes, and might actually have to eat the beets we got in the CSA box this week. I am going with your standard tie-dye colors, but am pleased that I found a bag full of old, dingy-gray, and very used cotton t-shirts that will gain new life by becoming napkins for my kids' lunches this year. Now I just have to find a time to do this project with my 5-year-old and maintain my sanity as she constantly peppers me with: "can we do the tie-dye now? can we do the tie-dye now? can we do the tie-dye now?"
  
• I rode my bike downtown last weekend to help at a Master Recycler table at the Portland Farmer's Market. I'm now 12.5 hours to the good in my payback for all the wonderful learning from the Master Recycler class. I am pleased to report that the people who stop to chat (quite a few) are very open to the things we've talked about: Green Building last weekend, and Green Cleaners two weeks ago at the Multnomah Days street fair. I also feel like I know what I'm talking about. Life as a Master Recycler is more rewarding and motivating that I could have hoped.