At the age of two, my eldest son, Caleb, toddled behind me along the shores of the Outer Banks, picking up stray pieces of trash that I pointed out and handing them to me. Two years later, he walked down the beach on his own, hunting for trash as if it were treasure on an Easter morning.
Sadly, he didn’t have to search very hard.
A pair of adults sitting nearby watched him with curious eyes. After he filled his bag, they approached me and asked if they could give Caleb something. I called him over, and they knelt down, handing him a few dollar bills from their pockets. They thanked him for taking care of the Earth—for picking up trash on the beach and making a difference while others simply watched.
He smiled, said a few words, and happily went on his way. I don’t think he grasped the depth of their words at the time, but they lingered with me. An idea began to take root.
Caleb is still the type of kid who gets upset when he sees litter in the parking lot. He loves plunging his hands into the soil of our backyard garden, and he knows where his food comes from. He understands the importance of helping care for the Earth. I’ve taught him—and his younger brother—these values since they were born. It’s a privilege I’ve embraced, but it’s also a calling.
Not everyone has the knowledge, drive, or opportunity to become a good steward of the Earth. But we all need to care. For me, it’s about more than just living sustainably; it’s about raising a generation that will carry those values forward.
That’s why I started Go Green Foothills. We’ve traded the Outer Banks for the foothills of North Carolina, but our connection to nature has never waned. We hike the trails, explore the forests, and still encounter the litter and disconnect that inspired us to act all those years ago.
Now, Go Green Foothills has evolved into a comprehensive green guide, focused on empowering individuals and families to embrace sustainable living while fostering a deep appreciation for our local environment. We’re here to provide practical, actionable resources for anyone looking to live more consciously—whether it’s through composting, gardening, reducing waste, or learning where our food comes from.
While our roots remain in inspiring future generations, we’re expanding to create a greener tomorrow for everyone, regardless of age. From tips for sustainable living to spotlighting local businesses and resources, we’re here to help you live green and live local.
Ready to join us? Explore our blog, find resources, and learn how we can make a difference together.