When I can I buy things in glass instead of plastic. Glass is more easily recycled than most plastics and usually better for the environment. You can also re-use the glass sometimes…

For example, I’m sure you’ve seen these preserves at your grocery store:

[Pic from the Bonne Mamman website.]

In the past I tossed the lids and used the jar as juice glasses. They’re really cute and I’ve never been one to have matching glasses (or dishes or coffee mugs for that matter.)

However, I’ve seen another mama out there bringing her children’s smoothies to the park in these (with the lid). This wouldn’t work for a certain 2 year old I know but it got me thinking about other uses.

Yesterday I made roasted brussel sprouts with a balsamic reduction and cranberries for my husband’s work Thanksgiving lunch. (Recipe coming!!) I gave him the hot reduction in the jar with the lid tightly screwed on. That way he could remove the lid and heat up in the microwave if needed.

I also store salad dressings in these!

Another jar I like is the Trader Joe’s Maple Syrup jar.

[Pic from images.fatsecret.com]

I use them as vases.

Saves me some Rubbermaid containers and provides really cute, original vases!