The New Dream Blog
In our blog, we feature stories, tips, and commentary from contributors around the world on topics ranging from
consumerism and parenting to how to live a fuller life with less. Enjoy!
Interested in contributing a guest post? Please review our submission guidelines.
Why Give Up Chocolate for Lent When You Can Give Up Plastic?
by Carol Janus | January 28, 2016
It may seem impossible to stop using plastic. But with perseverance and a little creativity, it can be done.
A Year of Buying Nothing New
by Julie Fathy | January 28, 2016
A Denver mom resolves to go debt-free by buying nothing new (aside from a few necessities) for a full year.
Real Celebration: Marcie and Brian's Bed and Breakfast Weekend Wedding Getaway
by Edna Rienzi | January 12, 2016
In the Real Celebrations series, SoKind asks registry users to share a bit about their celebrations. Read about how Marcie and Brian planned a wedding that allowed them to relax and spend quality time with loved ones.
How a Gift Registry Is Being Used to Build Relationships and Strengthen Communities
by Edna Rienzi | January 12, 2016
Who knew that a gift registry could be used to sponsor a refugee family, create support systems for those suffering from illness, and get teachers the supplies they need? Our SoKind users continue to amaze us with the ways in which they're using SoKind to strengthen their communities and build relationships. Read on for inspiration!
How a Gift Registry Is Being Used to Build Relationships and Strengthen Communities
by New Dream | January 7, 2016
Our audience has used SoKind registry in new and creative ways that have surprised and inspired us. Maybe you have a great idea, too?
How I Helped Set Up a Local Permaculture Park: Q&A with Neighborhood Challenge Winner Josh Dolan
by New Dream | January 5, 2016
Learn more about Dolan's effort to establish a Permaculture Park Project in Ithaca, New York.
6 Ways to Resist Kid-Targeted Advertising (and Save the Planet!)
by Edna Rienzi | December 30, 2015
Today’s consumer culture encourages materialistic values. Learn ways to fight back!
Embracing Letting Go: Unintentional and Intentional Simplifying
by Lisa Luken | December 28, 2015
Lisa Lukin realized that her unfulfilling life was only going to change if she intentionally created a new path. Here's her story.
Real Celebration: Toronto Neighbors Rally Together to Sponsor A Syrian Refugee Family
by Edna Rienzi | December 9, 2015
In the Real Celebrations series, SoKind asks registry users to share a bit about their celebrations. Read about how a group of strangers in Toronto are using SoKind to support a refugee family and strengthen their neighborhood community along the way.
Bottled Water-Free Holidays: A First Step in Kicking the Bottled Water Habit
by Anna Awimbo | December 3, 2015
Trying to find a way to wean yourself off the bottle? Why not start with a holiday pledge.
How to Ask for the Gifts You Really Want This Holiday Season
by Edna Rienzi | November 23, 2015
Do you feel overwhelmed with your family's holiday gift-giving traditions? Check out three ideas for a more meaningful celebration. Here's to more fun and less stuff!
How to Ask for the Gifts You Really Want This Holiday Season
by Edna Rienzi | November 19, 2015
Do you get too much "stuff" over the holidays? Here are three ways that New Dreamers have transformed their gift-giving traditions.
Top 6 Ways to Simplify and Enjoy Your Holidays
by Edna Rienzi | November 17, 2015
For a holiday season focused on "more of what matters," check out our six favorite simplifying tips.
Book Recommendation: Vermont Dollars, Vermont Sense
by New Dream | October 28, 2015
This new book presents 28 tools for promoting investing locally, with examples of people and initiatives in Vermont.
6 Ways That Parents Can Push Back Against Harmful School Commercialism
by Edna Rienzi | October 20, 2015
At school, ads can now be found on everything from team uniforms to cafeteria banners to homework folders. Learn some ways to push back.