It isn't always easy to be green, but it's certainly worth it. Momlogic sat down with Rachelle Carson to talk about her life with eco-obsessed husband Ed Begley, Jr, and their HGTV show, "Living with Ed," which follows their path toward eco-enlightenment.

momlogic: What do you think is the hardest part about being green?

Rachelle Carson: The fantasy of the American Dream has always been about having bigger, better, and more. Happiness came from the things that you acquired. When I was growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, I dreamed of having a home called "Tara" and a husband named Ashley right out of "Gone With the Wind."

I did get the fair-haired gentleman, but his name is Ed. And even if we became ridiculously rich, we wouldn't live in a house bigger than what we need, or consume more than we can use. Years ago, when I dreamed of a life of luxury, my dream did not include my "carbon footprint." In redefining the American Dream for me, life has become more about being environmentally conscious and making choices that benefit the greater good.

Letting go of that fantasy, and realizing that we each must do our part to conserve our natural resources will hopefully leave a richer heritage for our children.

ML: What do you think is the easiest thing about being green?

RC: It's knowing that what I do on a daily basis -- recycling, driving a Prius, conserving energy (solar power, using compact florescent lighting, and using less plastic) -- makes a difference. These are learned habits that I acquired after much practice. For me, they have become natural and easy. It would be difficult for me to return to the way I used to live my life.

ML: How do you cope with Ed's "over the top" green obsession?

RC: When we first got together, I took him so seriously; and then I realized that I couldn't live with someone who timed my showers, wouldn't fly in an airplane, or pump a gallon of gas. After about a decade, he has lightened up a little. He realizes that life requires compromise, and after seeing himself in our show, "Living with Ed," he has begun to see his obsessions with a little more clarity. If I didn't laugh it off, I'd be living in a nuthouse instead of living with Ed.

ML: What is the most rewarding thing about being part of this popular show?

RC: First and foremost, it's great to have the opportunity to show people that there is another way to live their lives. It's a funny show, fun to do, and makes a difference ... I hope.

ML: People recognize you for your star power on the street, but do they also recognize you now for your environmental contributions?

RC: Unfortunately, I'm still pretty anonymous on the street; but as far as environmental contributions, I certainly hope so. My character on the show in "Living with Ed" is the reluctant environmentalist. But I challenge anyone to try living with Ed.

ML: If you could give our readers one green tip they could incorporate into their lives, what would it be?

RC: I think it would be to wake up, get informed, smell the coffee, and become willing to learn some new habits.