Mark your calendars and get ready. This April 22nd is going to be a very special occasion. It will mark the fortieth anniversary of Earth Day. Though protecting and nurturing our planet is important every day, on this particular day, try to set aside some time to do something really special to celebrate the amazing world in which we live. Planting trees has become an Earth Day ritual, and that’s great. The earth definitely needs more trees. But maybe you live in an apartment or don’t have a yard big enough to support a tree? Then try planting something smaller and just as true-to-nature. Visit your local garden center for a packet of wildflower seeds. You can find a vacant lot, a ditch or a bare bit of earth that looks like it could use some love and sprinkle them on it. Of course, if the soil is rocky or poor, you might need to loosen it up and maybe strew a bit of compost on it, but that’s not too hard. Worried you might be violating some sort of law? Well, I’d hate to be the cop who arrested someone for planting wildflower seeds on Earth day, but I guess you could ask permission first.

 One great idea that’s bound to be hit is planting your seed where everyone can enjoy them.  Check around and you’re bound to find a highway median on a nearby four-lane that has already been “adopted” by a group for litter control. Join forces with them. While they control litter, you can plant wildflowers. Working together, you can clean and beautify that space at the same time. What a great way to tell the earth that you care! So, set aside some time and give the idea some thought. Then, on April 22nd, get out there and show the world that you’re proud to be part of the global Earth Day Celebration!