Why not BYO? (Bring Your Own!)

Over the last few days I have been experimenting with a new concept: bringing my own mug. I must confess, I am ADDICTED to coffee and tea shops. I love their music, their relaxing environment full of intellectuals and people on the go, and most of all (of course) I LOVE drinks! I've never been into alcoholic drinks, so teas and coffees are how I indulge my seemingly-inate desire as a human to constantly be drinking something. As a result, I have probably used and thrown out 2-3 cardboard cups every day for the past 6 years or so. THAT IS A LOT OF TRASH!

So recently, I was inspired by those around me to bring my own mug. Several weeks ago after volunteering for the first Pancakes for Pride event, I was given a free "decorate your own mug" in my volunteer gift pack. So Sunday night I sat at my kitchen table and "made my own mug." Now not only do I get to save the environment one little bit at a time, but I get to show off all the amazing stickers I have been given over the past several months =) My mug is now not only a statement expressing that I don't want to waste paper cups, but it also serves as a mini-billboard for the rights of living things!

Of course, bringing your own mug isn't ALWAYS fun and games... you'll have to carry the mug around with you and clean it regularly. There is nothing like opening an old, uncleaned mug and finding that a small smelly rainforest has started to grow inside it. I'll admit, I also sort of hate carrying things around if I don't have to. But the benefits of bringing your own mug FAR outway the negatives. For those of you that are still in doubt, just give it a try! And here are some tips on making bringing your own mug easier:

*Opt for a mug that has a SUPER leak-proof, no-spill top.

*Get a mug that suits your personality! Express yourself through your mug!

*Shoot for a product that is stainless steel. Plastic mugs can drop and break; plus they don't keep your drink NEARLY as warm/cool.

*Always know how much liquid your mug holds. Then when you are ordering, you can let the barrista know what size beverage your mug fits.

And finally, here are a few "mugshots" for you!