Thursday, December 31, 2009

R.E.D.U.C.E. Reuse. Recycle.


As the resolutions become daily rituals of a new year and a fresh start I have been thinking of more ways to reduce, reuse and recycle. As each day passes I have become increasingly aware of my affect on the earth. While I was cleaning out my closet in a last ditch effort to organize and give to the goodwill I noticed how many pairs of jeans I have.
Let's face it most women's comfort zone rests in denim threads. Jeans have always been, and continue to be my favorite. Especially the worn in pair that seem to mold to me like they were designed exclusively for my body. They're comfortable and can be worn with just about anything. However most of them, I am a little ashamed to say, are not environmentally friendly. There is no way I'm giving my lovely hip hugging denim to good will. So as I gather the bags on the way to be reused I wonder...Where in the world can I find recycled or environmentally friendly denim jeans? After just a little research I stumbled upon
http://www.reusejeans.com/. "Step into a smaller carbon footprint one leg at a time." That is the first thing I saw and there is no arguing with that! These fabulous finds are made from sustainable 80% recycled premiere quality denim. In an effort to help lesson the effects that the fashion and textile industry have on the environment R.E.U.S.E. jeans have discovered a way to take one of the most popular items in anyone's closet and make it coincide with eco-fashion. A belief in a greener lifestyle doens't have to stop at the closet door. So, a new item is added to the green resolution list, R.E.U.S.E. jeans! I can still have my favorite denim and feel confident about my green lifestyle choices "one leg at a time."

Friday, December 18, 2009

Green Your Holiday





The holidays have arrived. The mailbox is filled with glittery greeting cards. The gifts have been purchased and wrapped. Now, it is time for the little details that make holiday get togethers something to remember. And, if you are like me then ambiance is a big deal. Lighting, music, centerpieces,candles and of course your outfit, all play a huge role in creating the perfect environment for catching up with old friends and staying close with relatives. This year make your holiday event environmentally friendly. Use organic items from the backyard like pinecones, herbs and fruit to decorate. If you live in wintry conditions you can order a guilt-free flower centerpiece from organic bouquet.com. Switch to energy efficient LED light bulbs to save on electric. For some extra ambiance use soy or beeswax candles opposed to traditional candles that emit toxic soot into your home and lungs. I know the pile up of dirty dishes is something everyone dreads. As an alternative visit http://www.worldcentric.org/ for compostable plates, cups, napkins and utensils. Most importantly, the outfit. Show how important green living is with the clothes on your back. Jonano has some beautiful and ethical dresses that are sure to spice up your night. And remember recycle, recycle, recycle...Happy Holidays!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Treat Your Body Right

The holiday shopping, the deadlines, the family get togethers with all the hors d'oeuvers filled with things that any other time of the year you would turn your nose up to, all add up to one thing, STRESS! Well, it's inevitable your body takes a hard hit this time of year. So, treat yourself to an aromatherapy Aveda massage. As soon as you are taken into the warm room you instantly feel the tension running out of your neck. All Aveda products are derived from nature and smell fantastic. With essential oils like frankincense for the spirit and lavender for a calming affect, you almost forget where you are. Relaxation soon seeps into the space where the stress used to be and you walk out feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the world...or take a nap. Your body deserves a little mini-vacation. Trust me, it is worth every second! If you are in the Pittsburgh area check out Van Salon and Spa. Otherwise, check www.aveda.com for a spa near you.