Life is complicated. And it’s not just the big things. Things come up and maybe I give them too much thought, but I always learn something in the process.

So, here’s my little dilemma. After eliminating single-use glass or plastic drink bottles from my waste habits, I’ve become hooked on sparkling mineral water. I don’t know how it happened, but that stuff from Italy quenches my thirst like nothing else after a hot bike ride downtown.

Then reality crept in. A glass bottle filled with - water - shipped all the way from Italy - hmmm. Not in my green plan, but, oh so good. A bottle of wine or beer I can find from a local source and after discovering that I loved kombucha, I’ve started brewing my own. But this water? I just can’t come up with a solution to the bottles I am consuming almost daily.

Then yesterday, my friend turned me on to SodaStream.com - a way to turn my tap water into the sparkling stuff. I admit I was easily enthused. It not only solves my waste issue, but saves some bucks, too. I’m holding back for now because afterall, it’s a luxury “gadget” and I always question those. Hmmm. Worth the green? The last gadget I acquired - the electric teapot - has proved to be entirely worthwhile, so…

Does anyone have some advice for me?

Thanks. Tao