We have created a throw-away society to feed The Economy. We are used to so much abundance, and, granted, it's often cheaper to replace something than to have it fixed. But this habit encourages needless consumption and expenses, more trash, and the making of more (cheap) stuff.

In the fall people go on mum buying sprees, and by Thanksgiving the wilted plants end up on the compost pile. But mums are perennials. They may not come back entirely as vibrantly as the first year, but they don't deserve the trash treatment, you can plant them in your garden. Same thing with poinsettias. They have become such a Christmas industry because people buy them new each year. Lo and behold, the three poinsettias I received as a gift last year are blooming for the second time around, and just in time for Christmas. Spend less and keep enjoying. Here a previous related post, small is beautiful.