lu-n-am

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T05:36:00.005-05:00

To you and yours,

We are so entirely grateful to have readers. Thank you readers, thank you! Have a wonderful, joyous Thanksgiving (and don't fall asleep too early after eating all that turkey!)

<3
Lu & Am

Green Product: Feline Pine

2009-11-12T10:26:00.006-05:00

I always seem to be trying out some new green/organic/sustainable/herbal product every week. This week, I've decided to review Feline Pine (I've recently gotten a kitteh!)

I purchased the Feline Pine Clumping litter (there's also a nugget, non-clumping version). So far this product works really well. The pine scent works wonderfully to neutralize any kitty poop or pee odor. There's only one small problem: it spreads over the floor like crazy. As soon as kitty gets out of her box - splash! Kitty litter all over the floor! Oh well, it's not a huge problem, I just have to clean up often. But I don't think I'll be getting this particular litter next kitty litter purchase!

~Am~

Green product: Zand's

2009-11-04T22:40:00.008-05:00

I always seem to be trying out some new green/organic/sustainable/herbal product every week. This week, I've decided to review Zand's Lozenges (the beau & I have been sick a lot lately).

I love, love, love these lozenges. They are sweetened with brown rice syrup only and made of lots of yummy, healthy herbs and spices. We try to buy these whenever we're having a case of the sore throat. Zand's also makes lots of other herbal concoctions to help the ailing body. Try them out. I love that they're made with brown rice syrup instead of high fructose corn syrup, which isn't good for the body at all.

~Am~

Inspirational Green Blogger

2009-10-26T06:25:00.001-04:00

There are so many people out there that love the same things as we, Lu-n-Am, do. And I am loving reading fellow green-living pursuer Pure Green Design's blog. She writes about daily musings, beautiful, sustainable design, DIY projects, living a eco-friendly life, and opening and running her own eco living store, called Sustain. I think she just may be my inspiration/guide to opening my own eco-friendly store. If she can open her own store at the age of 27 then can't I do it, too, in 2 1/2 years? :)

<3

DIY Wall Art

2009-10-25T14:42:00.007-04:00

Hello Lu n' Am,

It's been a long time since I've visited you for a new post. I'm not even going to start with the excuses, lets just get to the post.

Martha Stewart of France has done it again.
Latest Project: Paint Samples on String inspired by boutique in downtown Knoxville:

-Cut little squares of colors (paint samples are perfect for this)
-Sew them onto a string,
-Hang them on from your ceiling or make a whole row of them.

Am and I have one of these fabulous decoration pieces hanging in our homes. I have zero sewing skills, but mom said this takes very little skills just patience, and the results are lovely!

and now I have a headboard for my bed. :)
Thanks mom!

Detail:
-Lu

Congrats to Lu & Mitch!

2009-10-11T12:03:00.004-04:00

A huge congratulations goes out to Lu & her beau, excuse me - fiance!

The little Lu has gotten engaged to her boyfriend Mitchell Trueblood! So let's all give lots of cheers to the sweet couple!

Congrats! I love you two!
~Am~

WNCA

2009-10-07T06:25:00.005-04:00

This week's featured Green Organization is the Western North Carolina Alliance (WNCA). I was invited by a friend who volunteers there to go to a "food & presentation" event presented by the alliance last week, and I found the presentation to be very informative and the food delicious.

WNCA is a grassroots environmental organization that "empowers citizens to be advocates for livable communities and the natural environment of Western North Carolina." Their three main goals are "leading citizen advocacy on growth management; involving citizens in public lands protection; and protecting the region’s water supply."

~Am~

Preserve Toothbrush

2009-10-05T06:19:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure if we've posted this before, but I was so excited about this purchase so I had to write about it! I just bought two Preserve Toothbrushes at Greenlife. If you haven't heard of them before, these toothbrushes are 100% made from recycled #5 plastics. One hundred percent! Exciting and awesome, no? Yes! Check them out, they really don't cost any more than regular name brand toothbrushes.

~Am~

Holiday Season

2009-09-30T16:00:00.001-04:00

I've already started thinking about the holidays. I know, I'm nuts, right? Well the early bird catches the worm, and I'm hoping to eat lots of worms this winter (don't ask me where I got that from).

Of course handmade cards

Maybe some handmade wallets?

Or some ipod covers?

And I'm sure I can find somebody w/enough style in the kitchen to want a handmade apron

Get set, get ready, craft! Good luck on a crafty holiday season!
~Am~

The Littlest Birds

2009-09-12T05:59:00.001-04:00

(Source.)

This is the home of my latest job. And I love it. Such cuteness all around. Let me give a small tour of the lovely place.

Name: The Littlest Birds
Owners: Sonja & Allison
What: An organic and natural baby boutique.
Sells: Organic and locally-made clothing; baby carriers and slings; safe baby bottles & such; natural baby shoes; safe, lead and bpa-free baby toys; consignment clothing & such; natural cloth diapers; and lots more!

Some great brands they carry:
Simple Shoes
Livie & Luca
Ergobaby
Maya Wraps
Under The Nile
RolyPoly
Grimms Toys
Plans Toys
Born Free
Bum Genius
Happy Heiny

~Am~

I got a green job!

2009-08-31T13:27:00.006-04:00

(Source)

Ok, I'm so super excited ya'll! I got another part time job, but this time it's so awesome and so what I want to do! It's working at a cute boutique called The Littlest Birds. This place sells natural and organic baby clothes and other baby items.

Exciting, right? Oh, it's in the oh-so-cute neighborhood of West Asheville! And it's ran by two super-awesome and super sweet ladies.

Plus, me & the beau found a new apt. and it's ours! Oh, what sweet bliss! :)
~Am~

An Etsy Green Guide

2009-08-24T06:45:00.000-04:00

We're feeling a little Etsy crazy around here lately. Therefore, we present to you a green gift guide, courtesy of Etsy:

Olivia Newton John Coasters

Gardening Apron

Envelopes

Coffee Cup Sleeve

~Am~

Need a green writer?

2009-08-12T16:56:00.002-04:00

(Guess which one is in need of a job more!)

Well if you do need a green writer then hire me to do it! Even if you don't need a writer specifically on green topics, I can still write for you. I've had beaucoup and beaucoup (lots and lots) of experience. Have an idea but don't know how to go about writing about it? Ask me! I can totally help you work out your writing dilemmas! I've been a writer for many years and an editor for nearly as long. So please, won't you take me on?

~Am~

King Corn!

2009-08-10T17:07:00.003-04:00

I watched this documentary (thought it would appropriately themed since I am off to Iowa for a week) found it to be very informative and entertaining, I highly recommend it. We really are what we eat. and we eat a lot of corn, and I'm not talking natural corn on the cob.
Check it out:
-Lu

Green Angels in Charleston

2009-08-05T07:38:00.001-04:00

Suffice it to say, our trip to Charleston wasn't the most eco-friendly trip. There was lots of driving and the campsite had limited recycling facilities. And there was lots of DEET used in the prevention of mosquitoes (but, OMG, it was so necessary - I got "et" up by those horrible little vamps).But, ya'll, we camped. Camped. No electricity involved. People don't really ever camp anymore, apparently. There weren't very many people located in the camping area of the park. But there were plenty of RVs.
We did our best and we had a heck of a good time. Many campfire adventures ensued every evening after the sun set.
~Am~

Lu-n-Am Bonding Time!

2009-07-30T10:54:00.005-04:00

(Source.)

Lu and yours truly (Am) are only minutes away from leaving for Charleston! We haven't had a trip together in a hella long time and so we're both super-excited to get away for awhile and relax. We're going with both of our loved ones and another friend. That makes a total of five and we're car-pooling all the way to the beach (four hours away for me!). It will be a very comfy trip! ;)

We'll be back in four days with pics and stories to tell!

~Am~

Recycle your water filters

2009-07-19T05:17:00.003-04:00

I was installing a Brita filter in our water filter the other day (it was waaay overdue, but those things can be so expensive!) and the beau asked what to with the old one. I said, I guess just throw it away. But he had a brilliant idea that showed my prowess has been rubbing off on him: why not recycle it?

So I did a little research and found this. So there are locations you can drop them off it to recycle, mostly the drop-off centers are located in Whole Foods stores. And there are none near me and if there are none near you, then this is what you can do: mail it off to a recycle center! So that's what I'm going to do, it'll probably cost me about a dollar or so to mail, but I think it's way worth it so it can be properly recycled! Don't you?

~Am~

Evan Healy

2009-07-17T05:30:00.006-04:00

(Source.)

This is my new absolute favorite facial care line: EvanHealy.

I've always had trouble with acne. I had it terribly in my teens and now in my twenties I've had to battle with with because of the birth control pills I take. What I had been using had been working until two or three months ago when I started a new brand of pills and my face or my acne cream couldn't fight any longer and gave in miserably.

Yet on driving to my favorite grocery store, Greenlife, I decided that I would go forward and see what Greenlife's beauty department had in the line of acne medicine. I was in luck. Greenlife carries only organic and natural food and products and this includes their beauty products. After scanning over the products and finding what seemed to be the perfect choice for my problems (the EvanHealy line), I balked at its price. It was $30!!! Granted, what I found was a kit and had five products in it, but I just hoped that I didn't have to spend this too often.

Encouraged by my beau, I asked one of the staff near the beauty counter and asked her for advice. She immediately pointed to the EvanHealy "Blemish" line. I told her my problem with the price and she pointed out a few others which she said had worked ok for her but that she had recently been using this EvanHealy line and it was working really well for her and that all the ingrediants in the line were recognizable and safe.

So I bought it. And I love it! The "Blemish" kit was supposed to last me 7-10 days but it's lasted me much longer. Here's what came in the kit:
-Tea Tree Gel Cleanser: This is a really light and refreshing lather, specially for blemished skin.
-Rosehip Treatment Facial Oil-Blue: This is for sensitive, irritated or oily skin. I mix it with the hydrosol. It has a nice light scent, as well.
-Orange Blossom Facial Tonic Hydrosol: This has a light, sweet smell and I mix it with the oil and rub on my face. It's made for all skin types.
-Blemish Treatment Roll-On: I use this handy roll-on to remedy specific acne areas. It's simple, I only wish it would dry quicker. It takes a while.
-Green Tea Clay: I haven't used this but I think I should. I've heard so many good things about clay and I'm excited to give it a try. It's to be used once a week.

One of my favorite things about using this line is the way I smell after I use it. I feel so refreshed. All the scents refresh me and my face's skin. If you want to make an investment in an amazing, effective, refreshing, and safe skin care line then go for EvanHealy. I think I'm going to try the clay mask right now!

~Am~

10 things...

2009-07-16T05:11:00.001-04:00

...you can do right now to help the environment:

(From here.)

1. Drink water instead of soft drinks.
2. Drink filtered tap water instead of drinking from water bottles.
3. Use a BPA-free container or glass container to carry your water.
4. Use your bike instead of your car to run errands.
5. Recycle your plastics, paper, cardboard and aluminum.
6. Print documents on both sides of paper.
7. Use old blank pieces of paper to take notes and write messages.
8. Bring and use your own coffee mug at the coffee shop.
9. Avoid plastic bags: use tote or canvas bags when shopping.
10. Eat some locally-grown organic vegetables instead of the ones from the grocery store.

~Am~

Website of the Week

2009-07-07T14:31:00.008-04:00

Hello Lu n' Am readers,

We have just received an e-mail from a representative of Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awarness Center, an organization recognized as the web's leading organization for relevant and authoritative information regarding asbestos and health complications associated with asbestos exposure.

The MAA Center regards high environmental and green presence as a critical part of their movement and promotes the use of sustainable green products, awareness of past buildings and preventative steps in avoiding asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.

Be sure to check out their website as well as their blog in order to gain further knowledge on these important environmental and health issues.

Also, we are hopeful and excited about the possibility of a guest post from the public outreach assistant of the MAA Center, and we are very honored to be able to relay such valuable information to our readers.

Please be sure to check out these links:

- http://www.maacenter.org/

- http://www.maacenter.org/blog/

Hope you guys have a wonderful week and that your fourth of July celebration was a fantabulous one!

-Lucie

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T05:00:00.003-04:00

(Source.)

Happy Independence Day!
Love,
Lu, Am & Kimberly

VegWare

2009-07-03T06:00:00.001-04:00

In preparation for you 4th of July festivities, I wanted to let you know about about a company that makes compostable and biodegrable tableware and cutlery, known as Vegware. It

-Is made from natural starch and fibers.
-Will not melt in hot liquids like some biodegrable products & can withstand high temperatures.

There are other neat facts about the Vegware line of products that you can find out about by going to their website. And tomorrow, when you're hanging out with your friends and family, celebrating the country and eating and drinking the day and night away, if you're using disposable items, think about using compostable and biodegradable items, like Vegware.

~Am~

Roof Gardens = Genius

2009-07-01T18:11:00.006-04:00

Some of the perks according to this article (Toiture Truchon):
- Enhances building's appearance
- Adds space for tenant use and recreation
- One answer to the Urban Heat Island problem
- Stormwater management - retain 50%-90% of a typical rain fall on the roof

- Improves building's energy efficiency
- Processes airborne toxins and re-oxygenates the air
- Creates therapeutic and peaceful environments
- Total assembly warranted, from the deck up

I thought this video was interesting, there is tons of information on green roofs out there.

Links and Articles to check out:

-" Green Roofs are All the Rage"
-GreenRoofs.com"
-Chicago Green Roofs

-Lu

EcoSmart, update

2009-06-22T06:04:00.001-04:00

Here's another update, peeps. This time it's on a product called EcoSmart, which we originally received to try out back in January (read that post here). EcoSmart is a bug spray that is reported to be made of natural ingredients and to effectively kill pesky bugs, like ants, spiders or roaches.

I didn't think I would have to use it, we have never had much a bug problem. But lo and behold this spring has been different. Many spiders and ants and have tried invading our hole-infested apartment so far and after having many philosophical discussions with myself my eek-factor won out and I started spraying the invaders.

The product claims you know it's working when you smell it's fresh spray. I have to say, it smells quite good - very fresh and invigorating. It killed the invaders very quickly and the smelled lingered for quite some time. It was also a very easy cleanup afterward with just a swipe of a wet cloth.

So do I recommend EcoSmart? Yes. If you are in need a natural, clean-smelling, easy and effective bug spray then go for EcoSmart.

~Am~

Fresh Wave, update

2009-06-20T06:02:00.001-04:00

(Pic via flickr.)

After three months of using Fresh Wave products in my home (click here to see our first post about the products), I thought it pertinent to give our readers an update on how they worked for me.

Spray: We keep the spray right by the toilet, which is the perfect area to keep clean and fresh smelling. Whenever there's a stink, we sprayed a couple times and voila, a pine-scented bathroom.
Soy Candle: I usually light this candle every evening after supper to kill any smells that may come from the after-meal cleanup or from the trash can. Works great, smells great - my only complaint is that the smoke makes the candle container particularly black.
Crystal Gel: I'm not so sure about this one...it was supposed to contain and prevent smells in the area placed. I've had this gel in our moldy, dank bathroom ever since I received the product, and I have to say - the place is still pretty moldy and dank smelling.

So two pluses and one minus for Fresh Wave. I'd recommend their spray and soy candle but remain unsure about their crystal gel.

~Am~

RIP herbs.

2009-06-19T18:27:00.005-04:00

Sadly, my herbs that I was so excited about (read previous post) have been taken over by these things.and when I say taken over...i mean freaking taken over.

Dear Armadillium Vulgare leader,

I know you that you think you're real cool because you are the only crustaceans who live on land and perform valuable jobs for our environment... But you have super grossed me out and murdered my herbs. I don't like you.

Sincererly, Lucie

P.S. I am grossed out and will let you live there in peace, until I find someone brave enough to evict you from my cool reusable biodegradable pots.

ugh.
first attempt at growing my own herb garden----> FAIL

Mistake: I placed the pots on the ground outside on my wee patio too close to soil and foliage where these little guys hangout.

Solio

2009-06-18T06:00:00.001-04:00

I received a Solio solar charger just a few weeks ago...and I was so excited - it was like it was Christmas all over again! I had first discovered these solar charges months ago, but I a little while ago I got the opportunity to get one - for free! And so I jumped for it!

Name: Solio
Function: To charge your electronics via the sun! After the device has spent some time hanging out in the sun, all you have to do is plug it in to your electronic device (cell phone, MP3 player, GPS, PDA, digital camera or portable game system) and it watch it charge! It's quite small and very light weight, so it's something you can take anywhere you go, making it oh-so-super-handy. (P.S. it's so cool even the president uses it!) Despite me receiving this for free, I think it would be worth the investment to save the energy you normally use charging the seemingly neverending stash of tiny electionics.

~Am~

Juice Beauty

2009-06-17T10:41:00.006-04:00

We've previously posted about the dangers of most beauty products that are out there. Juice beauty is a line of skin care products made from organic solutions. I stumbled upon some of their products at ROSS (yes, ROSS is a wonderful place to find unique skin care products for super super cheap)

So far I've really enjoyed their 3 step solution (The cleanser, antioxidant serum, and moisturizer) . They also have an interesting blog not only related to their beauty line but to ways of living a greener life and having a greener future.

Links to Check Out:
-Juice Beauty Blog
-Juice Beauty;s Official Website
-http://www.juiceorganics.com/ (Juice Organics is a line of products from Juice Beauty, but much more affordable and still free of harsh paraben preservatives, synthetic fragrances, petroleum derivatives, artificial dyes, harsh sulfates, and phthalates or toluene. contains 100% vegetarian ingredients)

-Lu

Connect2Earth

2009-06-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

After a month-long hiatus (sorry!) lu-n-am is back. And now we'll be back with a vengeance [the latest in our movie series ;)]

Today's post is about a website that I had heard about a couple of months ago but have just now gotten up the energy to look more in to.

The website: Connect2Earth
What it's about: An online community made for greenies just like you and me. It's a place where everyone can come together to discuss important environmental issues and how we are going about solving these issues. Along with the community space for for having these important conversations, the website also hold contests for members to participate in that are connected with important world environmental events.

So go check them out. I have an account there now and so far - so cool. :)
~Am~

Making a difference on vacation

2009-05-12T10:43:00.008-04:00

(Via flickr.)

I will be going, in a few short days, to the beach with a couple of friends. While there, I'm going to do my darnedest to be as eco-friendly as possible. Here are some things that I'm going to do to reduce my waste on the trip:

-Use personal water bottle instead of purchasing water bottles
-Use personal coffee cup instead of using the horrible non-recycle to-go cups
-Bring tote bags for shopping instead of using plastic store bags
-Use container from home for left overs instead of styrofoam containers
-Pick up trash that isn't mine on the beaches I visit

~Am~

Celebrate the Earth!

2009-04-22T06:14:00.002-04:00

Hey guys and gals! It's Earth Day! So go outside, play in the sun, jump in a lake, plant a tree, smile with the sun! Go celebrate this wonderful planet we're living on and show it some love!

(From we heart it.)

~Lots of Love~
Lu, Am & Kimberly

Earth Day!

2009-04-21T06:00:00.004-04:00

Oh yes - it's our day! The day we wait for every year: Earth Day! Ok, it's not today - but tomorrow and we're excited!

(From we heart it.)

Here in Asheville, NC we consider ourselves to be pretty Earth and eco friendly, and we have a joyous time on Earth Day. We have celebrations before, on, and after Earth Day.

To see what goes down in the A-Ville for Earth Day, look below:
-MountainXpress
-Other celebrations

What does your city do for this glorious day? We'd love to know!

~Am

Wow, guys

2009-04-19T00:21:00.005-04:00

Sorry. We haven't posted since the 2nd of April. We're truly sorry. We've been slacking. We've been tired. We've been...well we've been living our lives.

(From we_heart_it.)

Lu's been...finishing up her semester. This isn't her last one, but almost. She'll be graduating in December.

Am's been...trying to establish a writing career via various freelancing sites and doing some writing for whoever will take her.

All the while, we've been trying to stay green. It's pretty successful most of the time. We try to do our best.

What have you been doing?
~Am

On/Off

2009-04-02T17:51:00.003-04:00

Earth Hour 2009

This is so awesome, check out this link and click on the picture to watch the before and and during Earth Hour throughout the world.

http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2009/03/earth_hour_2009.html

-lu

DIY creative living.

2009-04-02T16:55:00.007-04:00

So I wrote about this in my other blog, but I thought I would share with Lu n' Am readers... because we're all about some creative ideas and projects.

Make your own holiday banners, birthday banners, welcome home, happy _____ day banner....

or even better make a banner for a special someone today and surprise them..just because you love them.

These are very easy to make and take very little time. I made one for my mom for her birthday just this week.

1.Just find the letters that you want...the internet or magazines are a good place to look. I used Google image search and typed: letter H or Letter A, whatever letter or symbol you need...and tons of letter images came up. searching for extra little images or cliparts that have to do with your theme is also a good idea. (for example I printed a picture of a cupcake and balloons)

2.Print them out, cut them out.

3.Glue them on sturdier paper (i used colored note cards)

4.Tape them on a string or ribbon.

and Voila! you have yourself a very cute and personalized banner. and of course don't forget to reuse them for the next occasion. ;)

-Lu

P.S. My herbs are growing! :)

Testing my Green Thumb

2009-03-25T18:44:00.007-04:00

I am very excited because I have just planted for the very first time, little lavender seedlings, chives, parsley, and sweet basil. I am new at this, and also super impatient & excited to see the first hints of a live plant growing in my apt. (-I will be devastated if they never grow :(
I will be making cute little labels for each pot, and probably be naming them (I know...strange). Our little money tree is Edward, he is strong and healthy despite his recent battle with plant cancer (rotting trunk)... I think we were overfeeding him.

If this works out, I am hoping to start a mini garden on my very wee patio.

The am also very excited about the cute natural fiber pots I stumbled upon. The brand is called Ecomaxx and these cute and colorful little pots are made from natural plant fiber materials (bamboo fiber, rice straw, wheat straw, and corn stalk) meaning they are 100% biodegradable.
They were also 0.99$...and cheap is always a plus.
Lucie= excited

A breather

2009-03-23T06:15:00.002-04:00

(Source.)

I'd like to not say this but I've got to take a short break from here. It should be just a week. I've got to get my life a bit more organized. Have to find me a job - or some source of income. So bye for now, but not for forever in the least.

~Am~

Be a Green Irene

2009-03-20T06:06:00.007-04:00

Here's an interesting concept that I stumbled upon the other day: being a green consultant. Not that the idea of being a green consultant is absurd (I actually consider myself somewhat of a green consultant), but that there's a program called Be a Green Irene, which teaches people how to be a green consultant.

"The Opportunity To Be An Eco-Consultant in Your Community We invite you to learn about our intriguing new opportunity in the BOOMING new Green Economy. Our Eco-Consultants are independent business women and men who work from their own home or office and are distributors of our Eco-consulting services and an array of green products."

"The amount of information about going green is overwhelming and often conflicting. As a local Green Irene Eco-Consultant, supported by the resources of Green Irene LLC, you can become the knowledgeable green friend your friends have been wishing for. You will have all the tools and information necessary to move your clients toward a healthier, greener life."

What do you think about this? It seems legit but...I don't know. I think I like the concept of it though. What are your thoughts?
~Am~

Making soy candles

2009-03-19T06:10:00.003-04:00

(Source.)

I really, really love candles. And something I've tried to use more of, because of the health effects for one and all, are soy candles.

Some facts about soy candles vs. paraffin candles (via this site):
-Paraffin wax is made of petro (foreign oil dependence!).
-But soy wax is American made and made of soy!
-Paraffin wax has many carcinogenic (cancer causing) compounds.

In this vane, I've been reading up, mainly on this site, on how to make soy candles. It seems fairly easy. I plan on getting the supplies this week and trying it out. I don't need much: soy wax flakes, containers/candle molds, essential oil, wicks and....? That's all folks.

If you're interested in buying soy candles yourself, there are plenty of places that sale them these days. But my favorite place to drool over candles is Etsy.

~Am~

My little projects

2009-03-18T06:16:00.005-04:00

I've had lots of time my hands lately. I've been unemployed for a while now. And while the I've been looking for well over four months now, it's in the last two months that the job hunt has become particularly hard and fatiguing, but that's a whole other post to be written. Since I've had beaucoups of time to play around with (I also usually get up at 6:30 in the morning 5 days of the week - because of my student teacher bf), I've been dabbling in some arts and crafts projects.

(The address book I made.)

Last week, I felt super-house-wifey and repaired a pair of the bf's work pants. In a fury one night, I made a tiny journal for him (wallet-sized) so he could always be able to write down his thoughts and ideas. This little frenzy turned into a full out project the next day. I made an address book!

I plan on making me more. They make me excited about writing stuff down. Of course, I like writing on anything - really.

~Am~

Finding New Uses for Old Things

2009-03-17T06:15:00.010-04:00

In my own home, I am always trying to find more ways to be more organized - to live in a way that's cute and stylish as well as easy and no-fuss. So that's why I get super-excited when I think of new ways to use things.

For instance, this week I decided to use some used glasses in my bathroom. I used a pretty grenadine bottle and a conveniently small (and quaint) Maille mustard bottle to hold razors. I already use various small plates and bowls to hold our shower products (our bathroom is very prone to mold - we basically live in a basement). This week I added a lid of a rice container (it's big, round and pretty purple color) to one of the plates to separate the soap from the shaving cream can. I used a tea bottle to put our toothbrushes in and to keep them off the often gross sink.

So the next time you're in search of a new item for your home (either for practical or purely aesthetic purposes) look around your recycling and see if anything in there suits your tastes!
~Am~

The Green Parent

2009-03-16T06:35:00.002-04:00

As I was reading up on our guest writer Kimberly's blog, Tree Huggin' Mummy, I discovered another green mommy blog - The Green Parent.

After losing many minutes being wrapped up in "ways to green your Disney trip," I surfed around her blog to find out many other interesting tidbits about being a green mom and making sure your family is living green and healthy.

Here's a little bit more info about the blog and the blog's author, Jenn Savedge, that I think is a good little read:

"Jenn Savedge is a full-time mom, environmentalist, and author who researches and writes about the two topics that are closest to her heart: children and the environment. As a former park ranger for the National Park Service, Jenn traveled the U.S., learning about the environment in some this country’s most breath-taking wild places. She currently resides with her husband and daughters in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

'“In The Green Parent, author Jenn Savedge guides us through how to live green and pass that love and respect for the earth on to our children, whether its working with our kids’ school to ensure anti-idling, planning an eco-family vacation or finding an earth-friendly (and scalp-friendly!) way of dealing with head lice. Savedge writes with an infectious optimism that motivates us to change our waysand change the world in the process.”'

This is a great site. I'm not a parent yet, but I spend countless hours reading green mommy blogs, daydreaming about the day I can raise my own green kiddie.

~Am~

Pangea Organics

2009-03-15T06:12:00.001-04:00

Omg. I love this place. Discovered just the other day at Nest Organics (I couldn't help taking some the free samples they had), Pangea Organics carries organic soap and body care products.

Pangea Organics, with the slogan "Ecocentral Bodycare," makes natural herbal-based skin care products. They use only the best and safest products and they make sure you know what they are using by listing all their ingredients on every product.

Another neat, earth-friendly thing they do is have all of their products packaged in boxes that are plantable. The boxes are made of 100% post-consumer paper and organic seeds, such as sweet basil and amaranth. All you have to do is peel off the label, soak the box in water for a minute or so, and then plant it. Next thing you know - you have basil and amaranth sprouting!

C'est super-cool! ;) Check them out!
~Am~

Did I ever tell you about...?

2009-03-12T06:43:00.001-04:00

...the fabulous purse and cards I received for my birthday from Lu and La Martha Stewart de France?

Miss Lu made me a quirky card & it came with a chai tea wrapped in sparkly packaging.

Mrs. Martha made a gorgeous purse. Not a tote bag this time, a real, fancy, purtty purse. And a card, of course.

The three of us have been sending cards to one another lately. And I have to admit, my cards are the least creative of them all. Here's a valentine's card from Lu and her beau to me and my beau:

Cute, right? And they were handmade!
~Am~

Nest Organics

2009-03-09T06:15:00.005-04:00

I was walking around downtown the other day and decided to step into this store I'd seen many times, but had bypassed because of lack of interest. But that day - it sparked my interest. And I'm glad I went in! I now wish I had visited Nest Organics a lot sooner!

Nest Organics "is committed to the process of moving our culture toward conscious lifestyle practices by providing modern goods that blend function, style and sustainability. [We] believe the basic foundation of sustainable business is making conscious purchasing decisions that consider personal, environmental, and cultural impacts."

Hallelujah, sister! Preach the good, green word! ;) Check them out!
~Am~

The American Chestnut Foundation

2009-03-08T06:39:00.003-04:00

On Tuesday I had a job interview with a great organization, the American Chestnut Foundation (TACF).

The interview went really well and I really enjoyed talking with the President & CEO, Bryan, and the Communications Director, Meghan Jordan. They've just recently moved their headquarters to Asheville and many of their staff members are still in Vermont.

TACF's goal "is to restore the American chestnut tree to its native range within the woodlands of the eastern United States, using a scientific research and breeding program developed by its founders." They are a wonderful organization, doing great things for our environment and bringing awareness to important environmental issues.

Check them out!
~Am~

Fresh Wave

2009-03-07T05:52:00.001-05:00

We've been asked to try out another green product! This time it's Fresh Wave.

On opening the box, the smell of pine and lime filled the room. It smelled very nice, but this is only a first impression...so we'll see how it goes for us. We received a spray, soy candle and crystal gel.

(Eli!)

I do know that the spray had a bad effect on Lu's doggie, Eli. After spraying the mist in the room, poor Eli had an allergic reaction. He's alright now but hopefully none of the other products will have him drooling all over the place like the mist. We'll let you know how the rest of these products work as we track their effects.
~Am~

On the [Makeup] Hunt

2009-03-06T05:56:00.002-05:00

I recently finished my favorite powder (MAC - hottt). But I decided long ago that whenever I finished my old makeup/beauty products, the next I'd try would be the healthier and safer green ones. So now I'm on the makeup hunt. I want something of the same caliber as MAC (and the same price range) but made up of healthier ingredients.In my hunt, I went over to the Nature of Beauty to look around at some green beauty goods. The ingredient list(s) are impressive and the price range is acceptable for me. The only caveat I found was their lack pictures (of the different powder colors). I don't want to get a powder that is meant for a fair-faced gal when I am an olive-skinned chica. Ya get me?

So I'm in need of a green makeup line that has good and accurate pics of their makeup so I know exactly what I'm getting. Any ideas?
~Am~

Burt's Bees expands to clothes!

2009-03-05T06:36:00.001-05:00

Burt's Bees is one of those companies that many of us "greenies" already know. They make tons of awesome healthy beauty products (they are also made in North Carolina - representin' ;)).

But now our beloved Burt is moving on to kids' clothing. And so far, [s]he is doing one darn good job. Here's a little sampling...
So super-cute right? I love how the bee theme continues on to tot's clothing. So if you've got a little green one, or if you just love to drool over your future little one's future wardrobe (guilty!), then head over to Happy Green Bee clothing.

~Am~

that project from way back when..

2009-03-04T07:03:00.008-05:00

Remember a long, long time ago (oh, let's say right around we first started this blog...) when I professed the greatness of DIY and crafty projects & and how they are innately part of living green? And how I'd be working on projects regularly and be sharing them with you?

You remember that? No? Good...because we are now introducing crafty wednesday! (;])

With over 2 years worth of collecting beer bottle caps, I decided with the beau to decorate our wonderfully antique treasure chest (used as a coffee table in our living room) with the collection. Once we finally got started the project flew by. The only thing(s) stopping us from completing it is some more super-glue & a pane of hard, heavy glass.

(Mostly) Beer Cap Table

We all know that there are tons of things you can do with beer caps (or any caps for that matter)...like necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry. But this is what we decided to do...add some color (and flavor?) to an antique piece. What have you done with bottle caps?

More pics to come when we've, finally, finished it.

~Am~

a green potluck

2009-02-27T06:47:00.004-05:00

So yesterday was my 24th my bday and, boy, was it ever a blast! We'd tried to make it as green as possible. Our efforts included:

-Organic Chips & Dip from our fav. grocery store Greenlife
-Handmade Pizzas made from organic flour
-No use of plastic plates/cups or flatware (we happen to have a surplus of the glass & silver kind, respectively).
-Carpooling of guests.
-Local beer for the drinking from the awesome microbrewery Highland Brewing Co.

It was a last minute event, so I think we did pretty well doing our best to be environmentally aware in the party plans. What other green activities do you do when planning a party?

(A sampling of my handmade pizzas.)

To read more about the joyous activities from last night, check out the Roller Girl post, here.
~Am~

Design Glut

2009-02-25T09:47:00.005-05:00

The site of the day, today, is Design Glut. Discovered through one of Etsy's "How-To's," Design Glut is an awesome website that "make[s] culturally relevant products. Products are everything from jewelry to housewares to websites to essays." They also write great articles "about how creative firms get started. We answer questions you've always had about the design world."

I adore their website and products. Some of their products are kinda strange at first glace, but with a closer look, you can find them to be poignant and witty. Check them out to find out more about design and how you can your designs out to more people.You may be asking why this relevant to green living. Simply put, they support crafty living and, to us, crafty living = green living. :)
~Am~

Seven Star Events

2009-02-24T09:45:00.006-05:00

Need to throw a huge, huge, huge event but want it to be green and safer for the earth? Then call on Seven Star Events. Based in Asheville, Seven Star Events has "provided turn-key green event services for festivals, trade and consumer expositions, conferences, concerts, and mobile tours."

I actually met the VP of Business Development, Joseph B. Malki, in 2007 when I applied for a job with them. Everyone was super nice, and I loved the house they were stationed in. Plus, I adored the line of shoes by the door - it reminded a lot of college for some reason.

They also have internships, which help students learn the ropes in event planning in a sustainable and environmentally-healthy way. I am super interested in them because of all of these factors and I'd really love to get an internship with them. I want to work for a company that is passionate and caring about our Earth and I think they are a pretty good choice, don't you?

To find out more info about Seven Star Events, check them out here.
~Am~

movie rentals

2009-02-23T06:11:00.008-05:00

Here's a debate that takes into consideration a variety of factors: where to rent movies. Such factors to take into consideration are, of course, money, environmental impact, convenience and economic impact (not the same thing as money).

(Source.)

The places I frequent to rent movies are:

Redbox
Rosebud Video
Ingles
UNCA library
Public library

Other places I could rent movies from:

Blockbuster
Other chain movie stores
Other local/non-chain stores
Netflix

Or I could just watch movies online via a variety of movie-watching sites (for free and not-free)...like Netflix, Itunes, YouTube and SurfTheChannel.

What do you think is the most eco-friendly & affordable place to rent movies? Your local rental place or an online site? What's the best thing to do when you're aching for a good cinematic experience?
~Am~

Green Decorating Continued

2009-02-17T15:03:00.013-05:00

So last week I wrote a post about the fabric panels I made using two vintage patterned hand towels I found at a thrift store. Turns out I had two of them left and I asked my mom to make me a pillow with them. My mom, as we have mentioned before, is seriously a Martha Stewart.

And so now I have a matching pillow for the price of only 4 dollars (2 hand towels) and the pillow was already owned just not covered by such loveliness.

Merci Maman! :)
( I really need to learn how to sew)

And why is this worthy of sharing on Lu n' Am? because it only cost me four dollars, the help of a talented mother, and it is entirely made of reused materials.

decorating really doesn't have to be expensive or consisting of "new" everything...

and speaking of green decorating...this new blog is very worthy of a visit.
- Pure Green Design
("Pure Green is a blog dedicated to delivering green style to anyone, anywhere...")
do check it out!

-Lu

Be green, be mine

2009-02-14T15:46:00.005-05:00

The Aid Agency has got it right. A smart valentine.

Happy Valentines Day!

~Lu~

a "green guide"

2009-02-12T06:27:00.000-05:00

I just adore reading National Geographic normally. They have wonderful pictures and great articles about really interesting topics. But lately I've been obsessed with reading their "Green Guides."

(Source found here.)

Right now I'm reading their Winter 09 guide and it's filled lots of facts and tidbits about going green. My favorite section though is their "One Green Year" article that extends for eight pages. This articles goes into pretty good detail about how you can "go green" by taking steps daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. It is an excellent article with ideas and suggestions for lists to keep track of your carbon footprint and your progress throughout the year.

I also really enjoy the advertisements in the magazine. All of them are related to being green, organic and natural. I don't really encouragement consumerism, but I enjoy seeing what my alternatives are as opposed to McDonald's and Wal-Mart ads.

~Am~

Au Naturel

2009-02-11T07:14:00.005-05:00

I received the last of my holiday gifts a few days ago and I was super happy to find some natural beauty and home products! One of my friends got me some lotion, soy candles, lip balm and organic mint chocolate from a local store called Au Natural. She also gave me the store's business card so I could look up more info about them.

So I checked them out...although not all of their stuff is completely natural, they have a fair amount of products to choose from that are more "healthy" and natural. All of their products are handmade by local crafters and they are located in a cute little part of West Asheville. My favorite things, by far, are the soy candles. They come in tons and tons of different scents and they are huge! Awesome, right?!

~Am~

Green Decorating

2009-02-09T21:43:00.010-05:00

I have recently moved into a new apt, and lately I have been on a constant hunt for creative ways to decorate my new home. Mitchell and I have a very wee budget (the poor college student kind), and according to certain Decor magazines, furniture & living stores decorating tastefully is NOT cheap. Thankfully, that is not at all the truth. With all of the resources out there, I am absolutely convinced that one does not need tons of moolah and NEW decor/furniture to make a space fabulous.

This is where fellow bloggers come in. The internet is full of creative people who are willing to share that creativity with us. They practically do all the work, they come up with a project, take pictures, give suggestions, write patterns, give us printable projects or step by step directions for us to DIY.

So here is my latest little project. I have to admit I am quite proud of this one, because when it comes to anything that has to do with fabric...I am absolutely clueless. But once again, someone else pretty much did all the work by giving me step by step directions :)

Fabric Panels/Canvas

This project was so simple to make and not expensive at all. Most of you have probably seen these before.
I had previously bought several 3 dollar canvas frames at Big Lots (woot woot, I love Big Lots), and so I thought they would be the perfect size for this project. I bought the fabric at a vintage/thrift store in Knoxvegas.

Fabric= A set of 4 hand towels for the price of six meager dollars. (My mom is making a pillow cover with the other two towels). and then I looked up how to make fabric panels online...and stumbled upon this source. (<--- so click on that link for better directions than I would probably give you ;) I'm pretty sure we've mentioned How About Orange before :)

When it comes to decorating, I am a strong believer that buying new isn't always the best option. There are already so many used but unique materials that can be salvaged out there. And there are plenty of creative people around us to tell us how to salvage them.

Happy Tuesday!

-Lu

charity:water

2009-02-07T10:14:00.018-05:00

Here at Lu-n-Am, we have the wonderful opportunity to discover and support many new causes - whether it's supporting a new up and coming artist or supporting an environmental project. Our latest and greatest new find is charity:water. An international charity and cause, charity:water:

"is a non profit organization bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in developing nations. We give 100% of the money raised to direct project costs, funding sustainable clean water solutions in areas of greatest need. Just $20 can give one person in a developing nation clean water for 20 years."

In supporting and fund raising efforts, the twitter community is holding an international festival - termed a twestival. In cities all over the world twestivals are coming together to raise money for safe drinking water. Like the cities Paris, Tel Aviv and San Fransisco (and many others!), Asheville is holding a twestival.

The twestival in Asheville will be held at the Windows on the Park on Feburary 12 from 6-11pm. And all it takes is a $10 donation to get in. There will also be yummy food and beer from local businesses to dig into while there.

Two video shoots are also being held today at Pritchard Park with people pledging money to charity:water. All you have to do is show up with a little moolah ($5) & pledge to donate the money! The shoots will be held at 11:30am and 3pm today and will be broadcasted on youtube to spread the word.

The closest twestival in the area is being held in Charlotte, so if you're dying to attend and you're in the area or if your city isn't holding a twestival of their own, come check out the twestival in Asheville! Also check out the ipledge that's happening today and make your donation to charity: water!
~Am~

new green blogger find

2009-02-04T09:06:00.001-05:00

It's always great to find more young bloggers that are passionate about helping the earth and doing what they can to be sustainable and responsible citizens. The green-blog of the day is Green Grounded. Written by a seemingly lovely lady of the name Ashley Sue, this blog is about making a difference, however big or small it is.

(Miss Ashley Sue in the flesh.)

I discovered miss Ashley Sue through twitter and Sensible Kitty. Some other sweet facts is that she also lives in Asheville and is a twenty-something. I think this calls for a meeting of the green minds, I do say. Check her out, she has many interesting insights about living sustainably that you are bound to find interesting, as well.
~Am~

preserve products

2009-02-01T16:48:00.004-05:00

Today Lu 'n Am would like to highlight a line of products who takes the philosophy "reduce, reuse and recycle" to the next level.

Preserve products philosophy is "nothing wasted nothing gained". The line of products which includes personal care items (toothbrushes and razors), kitchenware (cutting boards, colanders) and tableware (cutlery and plates) are all made with 100% recycled materials. The company's goal is to keep its products out of the landfill.

Preserve has a partnership with Stonyfield Farm to reuse their yogurt containers in their products. Reusing the plastic results in less resources (water, energy, oil, etc.) being used to produce their products. Less green house gases are also emitted in the environment.

Not only does Preserve use recycled plastic, they encourage their customers to recycle once they need to replace the item. I have purchased preserve toothbrushes for our whole family. Once they were worn, I was able to send them back to Preserve in a postage pre-paid envelope. They have a similar program with their razors. Talk about closing the loop - no waste!

Preserve products:

* are not tested on animals

* are made in the United States, working with US manufacturers

* do not contain toxic chemicals such as BPA

* uses clean energy and energy reduction measures at their office headquarters

* support local non-profit organizations

Next time you shop for personal care items, consider a purchase from Preserve. The website has a handy dandy shop search feature so you can find the nearest store that carries this eco-friendly line.

Cheers, Kimberly

natural spray?

2009-01-30T07:48:00.002-05:00

Exciting news everyone! Lu-n-Am has been offered to try some natural products - for free! We recently received an email from a company call EcoSmart. EcoSmart sells organic pesticide, insecticides and bug repellents. They offered to let us try their products if we would write just a short little review about the products. We've looked at their website and they seem to be true to their word (we don't accept greenwashing here!).

So we are going to give some of their products a try. Once we've seen the results with our eyes, we will give you an update and a decision as to whether or not we think you should give the products a try. The first product we are trying is EcoSmart's Ant and Roach spray. I, shudder, despise roaches, so I hope this stuff works!
~Am~

"Are you sure?"

2009-01-27T22:57:00.012-05:00

I am always amazed at the reactions I get when I ask for no plastic bags at different grocery stores here in the area.

I almost always get these responses...

-"Are you sure?"
-"Really?"
-or (the "why are you not taking my plastic bags" look)

(Photo-from Joe Harrison)
These responses just remind me that there are way too many people out there that are just completely out of the loop when it comes to recognizing and acting upon important environmental issues.

I am really thinking that maybe I should start handing out little information cards to these people with some facts that would inform them on the effects of these "convenient" plastic bags ...and maybe this would encourage them to make a change too~

besides, it is way more stylish to walk out with multiple cute & unique totes/reusable bags...and just as convenient once you kick in the habit of bringing those bags with you & always leaving some in the car for backup.

(Flip & Tumble Bags)

Here are some facts I could include on these cards:

-Plastic bags aren’t biodegradable. They actually go through a process called photodegradation—breaking down into smaller and smaller toxic particles that contaminate both soil and water, and end up entering the food chain when animals accidentally ingest them.
-Plastic bags also pose a serious danger to birds and marine mammals that often mistake them for food. Thousands die each year after swallowing or choking on discarded plastic bags.
- Finally, producing plastic bags requires millions of gallons of petroleum that could be used for transportation or heating.
(environment-about.com)

There are plenty more sad facts out there, but I think even just one of those is enough for people to change their "convenient ways" and start bringing in their own reusable bags. Most stores sell reusable bags for a dollar (unfortunately, i've heard of people buying these and then throwing them away...???? ) people are confused...
There are tons and tons of cute bags out there on the net & in stores that make a perfect plastic bag replacement.

My mom has made me the most adorable bags using the exact same pattern as the plastic bags that are out there now (so you can fit as many goods and even more for it is super strong) Am and Kimberly own one as well. :)

(I will be working on those little information cards, if you have any suggestions please share! :)

-Lu

wonderful link: http://www.reusablebags.com/

swishing

2009-01-23T10:25:00.000-05:00

During a discussion with my eco-minded friend who lives in England, she shared with me a trend that is all the rage in the UK amongst those who are living a sustainable lifestyle - swishing.

Courtesy of swishing.org

Swishing is the ultimate in reducing, reusing and recycling. Essentially swishing is a gathering of girlfriends in an upbeat, party-like atmosphere with the purpose of clothes swapping. Attendees arrive with one good quality item of their clothing or an accessory they no longer want/wear and leave with a new item from the pool of items brought by their friends. It's a win-win! You end up with a new piece to add to your wardrobe, without having to spend anything, and you have managed to put your old clothes to good use!

The website swishing.org has great information on upcoming swishing events - unfortunately, it seems the parties listed are exclusive to the United Kingdom. I couldn't find swishing in the US but I did find a great resource here in the US that takes swishing even one step further! Swap O Rama by Wendy Tremayne organizes events throughout the US. (I was surprised to see that an event had taken place right here in Knoxville!) Not only does a swap o rama encourage an exchange of clothing, these events have sewing machines and DIY stations where you can revamp your newly acquired item. A fashion show concludes the event!

In 2009, I challenge Lu, Am, myself and all of our readers to host an event! The possibilities are endless - wedding themed swishes, children's clothing swishes, etc! It's easier than you think. Swishing.org gives details on how to host an event including an invitation template. You may contact Wendy Tremayne via email to solicit her expertise in hosting a Swap O Rama event.

If you have participated in an event like this or are planning on accepting our challenge, please let us hear from you! We'd love to post pictures!

Cheers, Kimberly

Eco-Art of the Week

2009-01-22T09:56:00.007-05:00

I was reading the wonderful blog of peas & carrots, and I viewed this video there concerning environmental issues that plague our planet. I think this is brilliant.

Circular Painting from Fly on the Wall on Vimeo.

The Circular Painting made by Fly on the Wall
(Bryan Devlin,Luis Tolosana,Warren Lewis,Ree Treweek,Daniel Ting Chong,Mike Morocco,Toyah Moon Humphreys,Paul Ressel, and Josh Ginsburg)

The Making Of...

Circular Painting Making Of from Fly on the Wall on Vimeo.

-Lu

Eco-Friendly Products of the Week

2009-01-20T13:47:00.006-05:00

I apologize that I have been so behind on updating Lu n' Am (as you can see I am also behind in my laundry, Eli enjoys it though)., but I am glad Am and Kimberly are doing a better job than me. :) Hopefully, now that I am all settled in my new apartment with Mitchell & Eli...I will be posting more often.

Well, our apartment is finally coming together. Over Christmas I got lots of lovely gifts that have been very useful here at our wee home. Mitchell and I particularly enjoy these....(Well we don't really...enjoy...them...but we have to)

Biodegradable Poop Bags!

I believe my mom got us these from Target, but there are lots of options for biodegradable poop bags out there. We live in an apartment and little Eli no longer gets to roam free and duke & the owners be worry free. Our duty is to clean up after our puppy son and so It is silly to have to use plastic bags that are not biodegradable, especially considering these are used multiple times...daily. Anyways, these are great for pet owners who have this duty.

Another environmentally friendly useful product here at our apartment is the ECOVER all-purpose cleaner.
Straight from their website-

effective cleaning with the power of nature
safe for all washable surfaces
fresh fragrance from plant based ingredients
no chemical residue

plant based ingredients
quick and complete biodegradability
(OECD-test 301F, full product)
minimum impact on aquatic life
(OECD-test 201 & 202, full product)
no animal testing

Packaging Materials are 100% recyclable.

It smells deliciously fresh, does the job, and is all natural. I really recommend this cleaner.
Check out the link above for more of their products, their website is great, if only more companies followed their footsteps.

I will be posting more soon! I must do laundry.

-Lu

crafster, whoa!

2009-01-18T10:49:00.002-05:00

Are you ever in need of some eco-friendly crafting inspiration? I just found this jaw-dropping, super-useful crafting website. It's called Craftster. And yes, my friends, you will become an addict, just like all of the members who currently visit its site.

(Handmade bows.)

They have a whole slew of projects and tutorials. They also have contests going on all the time. In addition, pictures accompany all the posts and ideas, which make the readings superb! Some of my favorite ideas I've seen are:

-Gift Bows
-Bookmarks
-Cards

Check it out! There are loads and loads of ideas waiting to be discovered!
~Am~

guilty pleasure

2009-01-16T17:51:00.015-05:00

Back in the ole days when I had loads of time on my hand (and no children - hence, a correlation?!?), I used to indulge in celebrity gossip magazines. I know, it's a bit voyeuristic and I just hate the paparazzi and how they stalk celebrities but we all need a bit of escapism now and then.

Green celebrity - Leonardo DiCaprio

Nowadays, I have less and less time to devote to such mindless pleasures. Besides, printed magazines are so passe' and not friendly to the earth. So imagine my delight when I came across the site ecorazzi.com ! Ecorazzi is a site dedicated to the "latest in green gossip". At Ecorazzi visitors can learn where their favourite celebrities stand on issues such as animal rights, vegetarianism, as well as environmental and human rights. The site doles out kudos as well as criticism on the stars in the world of film, television, and music. Entertaining and educational!

I don't feel quite as guilty when I delve in the world of celebrities because after all, I simply *must* know where they stand!

Cheers, Kimberly

refab.

2009-01-14T10:19:00.012-05:00

I was browsing the never-ending blog universe when I found a posting about a wonderful crafter who uses reclaimed fabrics and turns them into new projects. Connie Crawley of Refabulous makes many different cloth projects from these recycled pieces that she finds, usually from thrift stores. She makes pin cushions, tote bags, catnip bags and eco-friendly fabric softener bags - to name a few.

Looking over her goods, I thought it would be the perfect place for Lu to get some goods for her recent move into her new apartment. Or the perfect place for Kimberly to get some catnip bags for her cats. Or the perfect place for me to get some pin cushions and fabric softener bags! Really, it's just the perfect place for the domestically inclined!

Check her out. She has an etsy shop and a blog. Enjoy.
~Am~

green to the last drop

2009-01-09T12:59:00.008-05:00

Here at Lu 'n Am we are always striving to find more eco-friendly products to incorporate into our daily routine. When we find sustainable products, we must share. Hence, the purpose of today's post...

As a "Brit by marriage", I am normally a tea drinker myself. However, I have recently become a coffee drinker. On a recent trip to Atlanta, I came across this great brand of coffee - Counter Culture's Sanctuary.

This particularly line of coffee is "shade grown" which is a more eco-friendly method and is closer to how coffee plants grown in nature. By growing the coffee plants in the shade, production does not depend on pesticides and does not lead to soil erosion like its sun grown counterpart. Sanctuary's founder, Fred Houk, is an avid bird watcher and ardent environmentalist so it is no surprise that his company truly practices what it preaches. Since its beginnings in 1996, the company has donated 10% of its profits to organizations such as the National Fish and Wildlife Federation. The company is not only dedicated to preserving the environment by eliminating clear-cutting production techniques but strives to provide a safe haven for songbirds and indigenous plants and animals.

Unfortunately as of this posting, Sanctuary coffee is not available to purchase online (even through the Counter Culture Coffee site). However, you may find it in organic food chains such as Earth Fare and Whole Foods and even smaller co-ops. I purchased the Organic Colombia Santander and I highly recommend it!

Cheers, Kimberly

reusing your holiday papers

2009-01-08T06:42:00.001-05:00

What does one do when the holidays are over and you are swimming in a sea of wrapping paper, gift bags and cards? Throw them away? Gasp, no! You reuse them!

(Photo via the bluegirlxo.)

I found this fab article on Crafting a Green World about reusing your holiday refuse. One of my favorite ideas is using the old paper to incorporate in sewing projects. Since I received a spiffy sewing machine for Christmas, I'm really excited to give this a try!

Any other ideas from the peanut gallery? Please - share it!

~Am~

the little things

2009-01-07T09:27:00.002-05:00

As our Christmas festivities come to a close, I would like to muse over the little green things that were implemented into my holiday celebration this year. All of these I am very happy about and am so thrilled to have been able to implement them so easily.

Wrapping paper/products-I used some old paper my mother gave me last year to wrap my presents. I then took construction paper and decorated the packages. I also printed super cute tags and stuck those on.

Decorations-I actually created some decorations this year and with a little help from some tuturials I flew right along making cute snow-like flakes, which I hung from my ceiling. These decorations we so simple, even my boyfriend made some with ease and enthusiasm. And of course, when I visited Lu and her lovely mom (La Martha Stewart of France) I saw how the love of handmade decorations had filled their home. There were snowflakes hanging from ceilings, little handmade trees with our names on them and candy cane stands.

(Bag by Lucienne.)

(Tea box by Lucienne, aussi.)

Gifts-Oh man, how I love handmade/homemade gifts, and did I ever hit the handmade jackpot this year! Our very own Martha Stewart of France made me and the beau a beaucoup of gifts! I received a friggin gorgeous bag (one of the many Madame Stewart has been making this season), a jewelry box, and a tea box. All handmade! And from the Lu I got, of course, my favorite thing to get from an artist, a painting! I had raved about this Nancy Drew idea for a painting that she had mentioned and, well, lucky me, I got me a Nancy Drew collaged painting! Score one for the home team.

Next year, or rather this year, I hope to make even more green and sustainable additions to my holiday celebrations.

~Am~

new year's resolutions

2009-01-04T22:28:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone and hello 2009!

(Photo courtesy of Kat says ROARRRR.)

What are your new year's resolutions for this new grand year of 2009? Among the the oh-so-typical goals for us at lu-n-am (losing weight, being healthier, etc.), at the top of our list is being greener and more sustainable - and of course to write more blog posts! Hopefully, as we all start to get into another routine this year we will be able to make lu-n-am posts a daily thing. :)

So here's to the new year! (I promise I'll make my next post more worthwhile than this one!)
~Am~

happy new year (or bonne année)!!!

2009-01-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

Whew! We've made it through 2008!

(Photo courtesy of kaicoooh.)

Thank you for staying with this us this year. We hope you continue with us into 2009 and beyond! Now, go out and boogie!

Love,
Am, Lu & Kimberly

earth friendly family fun!

2008-12-26T10:11:00.003-05:00

We hope everyone is having a very happy Christmas! Whilst we are still enjoying this festive season, I had to take time out to recommend two more great green book finds - i love dirt! and Eco Friendly Families.

The first selection includes 52 activities/suggestions to introduce your children to the beauty of the natural world. I love that this book is divided into the four seasons. The activities are geared toward stimulating such things as 'stewardship and caring toward living things', 'curiosity and exploration', and 'awareness of weather patterns' amongst many other subject areas. Though the book may initially seem a bit simplistic, I love that it gives prompts to parents to get the "environmental juices" flowing. I look forward to diving in with my two girls.

I haven't had a chance to examine Eco Friendly Families very closely yet but I look forward to learning more ways to involve the girls in our ongoing quest to embrace a green lifestyle.

I would love to hear from our readers...do you have any activities which inspire the next generation of greenies?

merry christmas to all!

2008-12-25T00:07:00.006-05:00

Merry Christmas (or Joyeux Noel) everyone!

(Photo courtesy of maudesplace.)

From all of us at Lu-n-Am we hope you are having a merry one (no matter what you are celebrating!) with your loved ones and enjoying your time off. Drink lots of warm drinks, eat lots of good food and give lots of hugs!

Lots of love,
Am, Lu & Kimberly

a green book

2008-12-21T23:55:00.006-05:00

I'm excited to write about this new discovery of mine. It comes via my first present of this holiday season. I received, from one of my best friends, a book called Green Chic, by Christi Matheson.

I've read only about the first 50 pages of this seemingly-short read. And so far it's very concise in its descriptions and details. I like how she talks not only about how to be green (and chic) but also why you should be green and how it actually helps the environment. This is good because it's often hard to find all in one book. Some books talk about how to help the environment, some talk about why you should be green, while other just talk about our environment's problems. This one - covers it all (from what I can tell so far!).

As a recipient of this book, I can recommend it wholeheartedly as a present to anyone this holiday season!
~Am~

tis the holiday season!

2008-12-14T20:13:00.010-05:00

(Martha Wreath Ideas)

It's the holiday and there is no better way of getting in the spirit then by making your own Christmas decorations. Martha Stewart of France and I have been making 3d paper snowflakes like mad crazy! They make a lovely edition to our Christmas decorations (especially since there hasn't been any real snowflakes thus far) and we will be using them next year and the year after that...
( How About Orange... = A wonderful blog full of tutorials and useful resources)

Making your own holiday decorations equals...

1. Quality bonding time with a loved one
2. A unique and personal touch to your home
3. Many Bragging moments when guest come in and say "oh my...these are lovely decorations!"... "oh why thank you...i made them" (shrugs)
4. Saves you from throwing your money towards excess Christmas consumerism
5. An Way of recycling materials, and reusing them next year.
6. Fun!

those are plenty of reasons to get crafty.

if you don't have the time this busy holiday. here is a wonderful secret to getting cheap, environmentally friendly (reused) decorations.....(drum roll)

Thrift stores!!!!!!!! At good thrift stores, and there are plenty out there, they have tons of decorations, some of them are really retro and "different". those are my favorites.

The interweb is full of creative people. Check out these links if you're in the mood for making some decorations.

-How About Orange (New fan of this blog...seriously it's worth the click)
-Martha Stewart (oh Martha, how we love thee, these holiday crafts are oh so nice)
-Craftzine (Instructions on projects are well explained,original ideas)
-Inside A Black Apple
(I definitely wont be buying those little to/from tags anymore, I will make my own, or just print some out on scrapped paper/reusable paper, some of these blogs are giving them to us as gifts! Inside A Black Apple has some really unique printable gift tags, just click on that link, you won't regret this click either)
-Craft Gossip (You'll find everything you hoped and wanted to find here)

Again, I am constantly amazed at all of the talented and creative people that are out there, and I am very thankful that these people are willing to share their creations with us and some of them even willing to share the secret to making these creations. If you have any Holiday decoration ideas or links you are willing to share with Lu-n-Am readers. comment away. It is possible to stay away from all of that excess Christmas commercialism and consumerism and still have a very wonderful Christmas.

-Lu-

aloha!

2008-12-08T11:15:00.005-05:00

Hola, everyone! Just wanted to check in and let you know that we are all still alive. Things have been busy, more than usual if you can believe it, and we've all let the blog be the last priority.

(Photo courtesy of Cherry Blossom Girl. A secret indulgence of ours.)

But don't worry...we've got some things up our sleeves. Just you wait.
~Am~

KAT

2008-11-28T08:07:00.001-05:00

In my last visit to the lovely Lulu (way back in September), I walked many miles around Lu's campus (UT). While there, I noticed not only were that there were tons and tons of students walking to classes (OMG! UT is so big! I went to a college that has 100 times less students!), but that were also tons of students using the bus system.

(Pic from sleepless_aquarius, via Flickr.)

Knoxville's transit system is called KAT (Knoxville Area Transit), and I was impressed to find out that they use alternative fuels in the running of their buses. In further research, I discovered many of their buses are ran on biodiesel.

I am so happy to make this discovery. Especially, since I found it in a place where I did not expect it. I took a vacation from Asheville to Knoxville, and what did I find? Some of Asheville's best values right in the heart of a giant college campus. :)

So the next time you are in Knoxville make sure you use the bus system. You'll be helping out both the city of Knoxville and the planet Earth.
~Am~

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T00:08:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one you!

(Flickr)

We are so thankful for all of you! We are thankful to have met so many wonderful people through the blog world and to see that there are so many people that want to be green with us! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

While all of us here are safely at home with our respective loved ones, we are deep down wishing everyone a lovely, joyful, eco-friendly and happy holiday. And one more...thank you!

~Am, Lu & Kimberly~

green your wedding!

2008-11-26T07:29:00.001-05:00

I have to admit, even though I seem like a girl who doesn't dream of her wedding, I am. My dream wedding used to be extravagant and over-the-top and no doubt expensive. But as I 've grown older, more realistic and my priorities have changed, I now dream of a simple, green, eco-friendly, and of course, fun wedding. In building my dreams with real places, people and things, I've done a little research on how to make a wedding green.

(Photo courtesy of OnceWed on Flickr.)

Greatgreenwedding is probably the one of the most comprehensive green wedding sites. It has information on how to turn every facet of your wedding green. But other than greatgreenwedding, there are many sources to check out, like these...

http://www.aboutmyplanet.com/environment/green-wedding/
http://green-wedding-ideas.blogspot.com/
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-green/weddings/
http://www.grist.org/advice/how/2008/04/29/

Have any advice for making a great, green wedding? Let us know!
~Am~

Blue Sky Beverages

2008-11-25T22:04:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I've been on this really intense Root Beer binge lately. All I want to drink is root beer! I keep on trying different kinds and I don't really think I'm a root beer snob at this point, but I'm definitely digging the latest kind I tried! It's called Blue Sky and it's organic. This equals, my friends, yummy organic sweetness.

"Established in 1980, today Blue Sky Beverage Company provides a variety of all natural beverages including Blue Sky Natural Sodas, "Real Sugar" Sodas, Organic Sodas, Blue Energy energy drinks, and Blue Sport sports drinks. Our beverages are all natural with no preservatives, no artificial colors and only natural flavors. "

Give it a try. I have a six-pack of it in the fridge, right now. :)
~Am~

Email with a Difference

2008-11-21T14:30:00.007-05:00

Today's tip finds us in cyberspace... emailing with a difference!

Care2.com is the "the largest online community of people passionate about making a difference". The site was started back in 1998 by concerned citizen and activist, Randy Paynter. Today Care2.com has over 9 million members, 400 nonprofit partners and hundreds of responsible advertisers contribute to making powerful, positive changes in our world.

The site not only hosts email accounts with groovy addresses like "@animail.net, @peacemail.net, @vegemail.net, and @whalemail.net" but has fabulous sections where you can:

* read news stories from around the world

* click to donate to causes that support the environment, the ocean, the rainforest and children

* send environmental-themed E-cards

* sign a petition on causes ranging from human rights, animal welfare and health policies

* shop for eco-friendly products

* further your healthy and green living lifestyle with recipes and health and wellness tips

* learn how to make a difference each day with the daily action section

* meet other like-minded people in the Care2 community

I have been a member since 2003 and have really enjoyed networking, furthering my knowledge on causes around the world, and earning butterflies ("Butterflies are Care2's way of saying "thank you" for taking the time to make a difference. Members receive butterflies for signing Petitions, creating a petition, clicking on Care2's "Click to Donate" Races, and completing Daily Actions.").

We are all using the internet these days, so why not check email and do some good at the same time by supporting Care2.com?

Company of the Week

2008-11-19T06:27:00.000-05:00

Ship Greener. Ship Direct.

This is made possible by an international shipping company called First Global Xpress (FGX)

I received an e-mail from one of our readers (thank you Corinne! :) informing me about FGX. And sure enough this company is very post worthy.

Their promise to you:
your delivery will...
-arrive 24 hrs sooner
-cost 20% less
- use 30% fewer carbon emissions than the big shipping competitors we use and know.

Sounds like a good deal to me.

How do they do it?

FGX partners with commercial airlines that serve as 3^rd party carriers and transport your package in one direct flight, eliminating extra travel and carbon emissions.
Theres even a carbon calculator on their website, an they have an official FGX ship greener blog.

Corinne had a wonderful experience with them...if you have used First Global Xpress, let us know about your experience with them~ :)

Christmas will be here before we know it...there will be plenty of shipping going on...so you may want to check out their website before using another shipping giant. (New Clients at FGX)
~Lu~

Extra Articles on FGX
-FGX Website
-Daily News
-Yahoo Green

something pretty, something green

2008-11-18T01:08:00.003-05:00

Today's pretty, green site is One Pretty Thing, and, trust me, it's got a lot more than just one pretty thing on it.

One Pretty Thing is packed full of how-to's, pretty pictures and snazzy captions. It's a total inspiration to anyone wanting to craft something new, whether it's just to look at or to use it. This blog is pretty much a compilation of the best crafty and artsy projects our there in this world of ours. It's the best. I spent over an hour just drooling over & dreaming about the the blog's "Daily DIY" section.

I command each & every one you: go to it. :) It's the best. It's pretty. It's green. It's DIY. It's everything we love around here.
~Am~

An eco-friendly Thanksgiving!

2008-11-14T15:04:00.011-05:00

(WeHeartIt)

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. This means lots of good food! But unfortunately lots of trash & waste.

A Few Tips to make this Holiday a little more green for our lovely planet.

1. We all have to go shopping for this holiday. Whether we are going to buy the ingredients to cook up an entire meal, or we are going to buy a pumpkin pie, or a little candle as a gift for our hostess...we're going. So don't forget to bring your reusable shopping bags, can you imagine all the extra plastic bags that are going to be used on Thanksgiving day! don't use them! plastic bags= no good
Facts on the Evils of Plastic Shopping Bags (Green Sangha)

2. There are always leftovers on Thanksgiving. always. avoid buying paper/plastic plates, paper napkins, aluminum foil to wrap those leftovers. Use reusable containers. We save everything at my house, the butter is empty (save the butter container, wash it and reuse it). So when you are cooking up a storm, save all those empty containers and reuse them to store your leftovers! and if you wanna be extra prepared, start saving all those containers now. make it a habit
(Leftovers- Planet Green)
(Eco-Friendly Food Containers-Pristine Planet)

3. Buy and eat locally grown food. support your community...more fresh, (sadly often times more expensive), better for your health, but you gotta support your local economy...especially these days.
(How does eating locally help your environment? About.com)

4. If you can stay home. do it. I am going to Iowa......so.....I am breaking this rule. we all travel on thanksgiving. let's face it. but be smart. ride a bike, carpool....bus......check your tires. etc

5. Invite those who are less fortunate...or simply have no family close by. My family and I didn't celebrate thanksgiving, because...we're French. but we always get invited every year, and we loooove it. We've now adopted this wonderful holiday, and have celebrated thanksgiving at our house many years.

6. Don't be trapped by the ridiculous amount of Thanksgiving commercialism. Decorations... make them, be creative this thanksgiving. Trust me, this will impress your family and guests a lot more.

(Martha always has great ideas.)

also ReduceYourFootprint has a wonderful post on creative ways of decorating for the holiday.
7. i'm about to get sappy on you.... (drum roll)

say thank you and i love you to your family & friends. be thankful for what you have...do it. really.

if you have any tips you wanna share...comment away! and happy thanksgiving!
-Lu-

- Also if you want to feel really good, find your local charities and organizations and see what you can do to make Thanksgiving available for those are are not so fortunate. Donate some blankets, donate a can of green beans, volunteer...

green trash bags!

2008-11-10T12:07:00.002-05:00

What happens with your trash bags after they are thrown out with your other trash? Do they sit and rot? Do they sit there and leach chemicals from the plastic into the ground water? How long do they take to decompose? Do they decompose? To solve all these problems and queries try using recyclable or biodegradable trash bags!

BioBag: makes 100% biodegradable and compostable bags, for your trash can and other items. How do they do this? By making bags that are made out of corn. Yes sir-re, corn!

EcoSafe: has bags that are made of materials that have “controllable lifecycles.” These materials are commodity polyolefin and synthetic plastics. They are, therefore, biodegradable and compostable.

Natural Value: has bag products made of 10-20% post-consumer recycled plastic and are PVC and plasticizer-free. The bag boxes are also made from recycled materials.

Seventh Generation: ahhh, Seventh Generation, our trusted friend....makes trash bags from 55% to 80% recycled plastic.

So give these brands a try and let us know which one works the best overall for you!
~Am~

2008-11-09T21:46:00.004-05:00

Hiya everyone! It's been a long time since I have visited the blogosphere. (I guess having a baby is a good excuse?) Though life is crazy at Chez Kimberly, I had to break my silence to bring up an important topic...As we sashay into the holiday season, it is important to remember our green values as we consider gift giving.

First, we should evaluate do we really need more stuff? Gone are the days when you waited all year to get that special item or toy. Today, adults go out and buy what they want when they want it. Children are "treated" on a regular basis. So do we really need to go over the top during the holidays? What message are we sending to our friends, family and children when we go into debt unnecessarily and indulge to excess? Let's follow "less is more" this year and consider these options:

1) Instead of buying gifts, how about making them? Some of my favourite gifts have been from neighbors and family who have put a lot of thought, time and love into handmade/homemade gifts. Bake a loaf of that delicious banana bread or share some 'friendship tea' in nice tea cup. This year, my 3 year old daughter and I will be making soap to pass along to our loved ones.

2) Consider making a charitable donation or support a good cause on behalf of the gift recipient. Does your mother love animals? How about a donation to the local humane society in her honor? Give to those who truly need. Last year, for my birthday (which is on Christmas Eve), my husband bought water jugs and mosquito nets from Oxfam's Unwrapped.

3) After considering the above alternatives, if you still want to purchase physical presents, at least purchase from fair trade sites. Auction site eBay recently partnered with the World of Good Development Organization to establish a green commercial site. World of Good.com is a "one-stop shop for environmentally conscious and socially responsible consumers". Unlike eBay's auction style, the items on World of Good have a price tag that isn't negotiable. Visitors can find items from around the world such as food, home decor, and clothing. I like that you can select a gift from a category such as "People Positive" "Animal Friendly" and "Supports a Cause".

Remember, the best gifts we can give are a clean environment and healthy planet to future generations. I hope that you will consider your impact during the holidays. For more ideas, please visit Buy Nothing at Christmas.

buying green paper products

2008-11-06T16:23:00.009-05:00

While you can avoid the use of paper towels by creating your own cloth towels and rags, one thing you can't get around using is toilet paper.

There's just no way around it - you have to use toilet paper. So what kind of toilet paper should you use?

If you can afford it, go green and go recyclable. Here are some brands that sell non-bleached, post-consumer, and recycled toilet paper:

-Seventh Generation
-Whole Foods Markets' "365 Everyday Value"
-Green Forest

From the reviews I've read, the best value and bang for your buck is Seventh Generation's toilet paper. So give it a try! And if you can find any more post consumer toilet paper brands, let us know!
~Am~

delight!

2008-11-05T19:34:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone! Sorry about this EXTREME lack of posting. Many, many apologies...but on the plus side...Obama is our next president! We are SO happy here at Lu-n-Am. The future is bright and so is the potential for green jobs and the U.S. becoming a sustainable nation!

Three cheers to a green present and future! Hip-hip-hooray! Hip-hip-hooray! Hip-hip-hooray!
~Am~

Skateboard. Stool?

2008-10-19T23:31:00.002-04:00

These are a wee bit pricey, but I just thought the idea was super creative. Recycled skateboards made into stools. genius
http://www.deckstool.com/

Hope everyone had a good weekend!
-Lu

lu's art show!

2008-10-17T20:05:00.001-04:00

Today is the day! And what a day it is. Today is our little Lu's first art show! And we are all so proud of her. That's why we insisted on taking out this time today to write about our lovely Lu and all of her green accomplishments!

(A sampling of Lu's art work from her first show at Gallery 1010 in Knoxville.)

Since we've started the blog, the lovely Lu has:
-Thrown out of her toxic beauty products & replaced them with healthy, safe, green beauty products.
-Made, with the help of La Martha Stewart de France, many handmade journals & notebooks.
-Purchased thrift items and turned them into beautiful pieces of furniture.
-Discovered new ways to turn old things into pretty storage items.
-Left a vacation spot cleaner, greener and healthier than it was before she arrived.
-Created handmade shopping bags to replace the use of nasty plastic bags.
-Found new & exciting ways to use cardboard in our daily lives.

So three big cheers for Lu! Hip-hip-hooray! Hip-hip-hooray! Hip-hip-hooray!
Love you much, Lu!
~Am~

omfg

2008-10-16T01:36:00.013-04:00

Sorry guys, it's been a week. Yes, a whole week since any of us has written an entry. Our profoundest apologies. So let's get on with the business of the day: blogging!

I'm of the belief that to make our world a green and sustainable world we are going to have to make this way of life accessible and affordable to EVERYONE. This is the only way. If everyone can access it and afford it, then everyone can do it and will want to do it.

This brings me to solar power. Right now, solar power is one of the most expensive forms of alternative energy. It literally costs tens of thousands of get the sources and to convert. Yet, I find it to be one of the most promising alternatives. So for solar power, we are going to have to find new and cheaper ways to make this energy source work for everybody.

(A D-I-Y solar power kit.)

This leads me to the discovery of a $600 D-I-Y solar power kit. This little kit will give you enough power to use some objects around your home (for instance, in one week it will give you enough energy to power your laptop for 40 hours.). Don't get me wrong, $600 isn't really cheap to me. Trust me, this post-graduate girl will not be getting one for herself anytime soon. But it's a start. And for many families and small businesses, this kit could make the perfect start! Plus, I'm a firm believer that every little thing counts...and many little things add up to one big thing!
~Am~

The Freecycle Network

2008-10-09T10:27:00.007-04:00

Thanks roomie!
My roommate Lisbeth told me about this wonderful website.

http://www.freecycle.org/

Their Mission= "To build a worldwide gifting movement that reduces waste, saves precious resources & eases the burden on our landfills while enabling our members to benefit from the strength of a larger community."

and what a good one it is.

Gifting being the key word. Everything is free.
I mean this is like a free thrift store online! Oh, thrift stores...how we love thee.
So next time you're thinking of throwing away an apliance, clothing, cds, crafts, frames, books...you name the item (someone out there probably wants/needs it)....you're remodeling your house don't know what to do with the old furniture? Don't throw it away!

Chances are they have one in your community. I looked up several smaller towns in my region and they all had a freecycle network.
This nonprofit movement is genius so be sure to check it out and participate within your community!

-Lu

Figs & Ginger

2008-10-08T18:22:00.001-04:00

I'm sitting in a dark valley and listening to the sound of rain on the roof of my cave. And while this visual is...comforting, disturbing, relaxing...I wanted to talk about a neat little local jewelry shop. I've mentioned it earlier, but I thought I'd elaborate further.

The cute little jewelry shop I speak of is called Figs & Ginger. And if the name wasn't cute enough for you, get a load of their irresistibly charming and whimsical jewelry:

(Super cute, right?)

Figs & Ginger is an "eco-friendly metal-smithing inspired by forests." It's located just a few minutes outside of Asheville and is serious about living and working a green and sustainable life. They use recycled and reclaimed silver and gold in their pieces, are building a passive solar studio, using earth friendly jewelry tools and products, use all eco-friendly paper products, recycle everything, drive mopeds and use green packaging.

I think I'm in love with them. Or at least in love with what they do. And love that they are doing right in my own neighborhood - er - area.
~Am~

responsible traveling

2008-10-06T14:17:00.025-04:00

(Eep! Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica, erupting. I've seen this! And I want to see it again! - Pic from guano.)

I've had a hankering lately to travel, although I'm in no way financially able. So in lieu of my dreamed travels, I wanted to talk about traveling responsibly. By traveling responsibly I mean (definition via Go Green Travel Green):

-Thinking about your impact on the environment (both the physical and social environment) when you travel.
-Doing your part to minimize your impact on the environment – so that tourism in your destination can be maintained in the long run.
-Understanding eco-friendly choices you can make.
-Making eco-friendly choices when they are options.
-Doing your research to be a responsible traveler.
-Saving money by making low-impact choices.

In this day and age it's absolutely vital that you travel responsibly. How far you go and how you get there is, no matter what, going to have an impact on the environment. Traveling by airplane has by far the worst affect on our environment. And the further you travel away from your home the more potential harm you will incur. But there are ways to cut down on this damage.

For instance, "voluntourism tours" are avaiable. These tours are where you volunteer in the area you are seeing so that you can do something good for the community you are visiting. Or, instead of paying someone to do it for you, you could just look into what local organizations are located in the particular area and contact the person in charge to set up some time where you could help them.

For accommodations, you could stay at a local (mom n' pop) hotel or do a home stay with a local family. It's important that you try to support the local businesses and economy and shop at places that has their profits go directly to the area, instead of shopping at big, commercial stores that you can find anywhere else in the U.S.

Here's some more resources you should check out if you are concerned about traveling responsibly on your next vayk!
-Responsible Travel
-Eco-Travel Logue
-And check out Go Green Travel Green's blog. It's super-informative and fun to read!

Happy travels!
~Am~

The Target Post

2008-10-05T21:47:00.014-04:00

Instead of being a diligent student, I was browsing the Target website.And I am very impressed with their eco-friendly section. (although I still think if it has the word recycled, eco-friendly, or green in the description, the prices seem to be magically higher). <---- This makes absolutely no sense to me, if it's recycled and good for the planet shouldn't it be cheaper and more affordable? 2 Eco-Friendly Target finds we all need:
Reusable Batteries: Peeps, we have the resources and technology to make batteries that will last you a long time...this means these babies are environmentally friendly and a source of renewable energy (cutting the production of single use alkaline batteries), more sustainable, and in the end saving you some money. -----> = a good buy For more information and top quality rechargeable batteries this is a great site.(greenbatteries.com)
Water Purification Filter- You can't go wrong with these. Knoxville water isn't so tasty...and who knows what it contains. Water bottles and jugs equals a big no no. So just filter it. It costs some money to replace the filters every few months, but buying plastic water bottles and jugs on a weekly basis quickly surpasses that amount.

Some cute eco-friendly Target finds (I really want but can't afford at this time) :( :
Totes Eco Umbrella- These are made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles!They should sell these in amusement parks, everyone is always scrambling to buy umbrellas and ponchos when they feel a few drops of rain.

I love tea, and this little bamboo box is adorable.
pb Bamboo Travel Eye Mask: I am all about some eye masks. My roommate and I even had a "competition" to see who had the comfiest eye mask. We are hooked. Anyways, I wonder if bamboo fabric is soft and comfy?

I think that is enough procrastination on my part for one day. ;) Anyways, check out the eco-friendly section at target. They have cute things. again, some of these are way way overpriced and often times not really "needed".
but..hey, whats wrong with a little shopping every now and then. *shrugs*

-Lu

peas and carrots

2008-10-01T00:53:00.001-04:00

Found this super-super cute website,called peas and carrots. It's a cute recycled-craft blog. The blogger seems like a particularly young lady, and which leads me to saying that for her age she is such an awesome and amazing crafter. Especially since she's one who uses reused and recycled products in/as her craft pieces.

Some of my favorite pieces of her's are cute earrings and necklaces made from old beer and bottle caps and "fused" plastic pins made from old plastic bags.

(Flower pins made by peas and carrots.)

It's all pure sweetness. She's an inspiration. I, actually, have a butt-ton of bottle caps waiting around for me to turn them into something cute and useful. And peas and carrot s has shown me the way!

(Bottle cap necklaces at the Bel Air Festival for the Arts.)

~Am~

On a side note: My good friend and great blogger Sensiblekitty has recently gotten an internship at the raddest local jewelry-making joint, ever - figs and ginger. I want to wish her congrats and good luck in her new venture - she always finds the sweetest places to work for!