Let's have a chat...!

From what I can discern, there are a LOT of LVL members. Shoot, I even met one at my son's friends birthday parties! I know you're out there, I can see you lurking, reading the blog and I know you are green! So, let's talk. I have linked all the terms about composting in the following paragraph for those (like me!) that would like to learn more.

I am on the fence about composting, worm bins and the like. I am afraid to build a compost heap outside for fear I will become the Old Country Buffet for the raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, ground hogs and possums I see roaming my neighborhood. The vermicomposting (worm bin) also makes me nervous because I have 4 boys, two dogs, 1 cat and a husband to keep alive. How would I also add 87 worms to the list? And, I would feel terrible if they died. I have also looked into contraptions like Nature's Mill where is nice and convenient under the counter with a neat little pull out drawer for the composted soil. I am just a little apprehensive about the possible smell. I just do not want my kitchen to smell like rotting food. And, it's not an inexpensive item to invest in, just to find out you don't like it!

So, what do you all do? Compost heap? If so, how did you build it, how do you maintain it and do you have a critter control problem? Worm Bin? Can you actually keep them alive and do they really have to stay in your house over the winter? Let's start a discussion. Add your comments to the post and I bet we can all learn something here. I feel guilty as sin every time I throw out a cabbage leaf or avocado pit. There must be something I could be doing just a little better!