Did you know many exotic flowers sold at the supermarket or by florists come from far-away places like China and South America? Stems that come from far away are flown in on gas-guzzling planes. If you think flowers that have more frequent flier miles than you is crazy, think local instead. To find locally grown flowers -- which are also often less expensive -- use the website localharvest.org to find nearby growers. Just type in your zip code, and a list of local farmers, farms and retail stores will pop up.

Don't confuse the words "sell-by" and "use-by" on food packaging to mean expiration dates. These are simply recommended by the manufacturers or growers of perishable food to suggest when certain foods have passed their peak quality and should no longer be sold. The reality is most food -- other than baby food -- can be consumed at least one full week after the printed sell-by or use-by date on the packaging. The key thing is to use common sense: If the food looks spoiled or inedible, toss it (or compost it if it's compostable).

Camping is on the rise and gaining popularity with families and people who want to enjoy the great outdoors. But think renting instead of buying when you need camping equipment. Instead of buying brand-new, many outdoor sporting goods stores will rent all of the necessary equipment you need -- from tents to coolers to backpacks -- at a fraction of the cost of buying. The other option is to use your social media network to ask friends, family and neighbors. And don't forget: Leave nothing behind when you camp to keep the wilderness pristine and beautiful.