Free Gift Tags

Though most cards now are photo cards, each year we do get some beautiful Christmas cards. After the season has come and gone, I hate to throw them away. One, because they aren't recyclable and two, because they're gorgeous. The cards from last year have found new life this year as photo tags.

By cutting off the side with the writing, punching a hole in the decorative side and adding a ribbon (from last year of course), a gift tag has been born. Just add your message to the back.

You can do the same thing with old file folders being tossed at work. Corporate discards are the best-FREE and oh so plentiful. A pair of crazy scissors gives these a decorative edge. Use your imagination, put your kids to work drawing, and save yourself the time and money buying gift tags.


An Easy go Green!

Cards also make great ornaments. Follow the instructions above and hang it on the tree!

Eco Friendly Photos

"ooo", "aahhhh", "Oh my gosh, look how big they are!" It's that season when we're about to be bombarded with an array of photos from everyone from our relatives to the co-worker we just met once in a sales meeting. What to do with all those photos once we've oohed and ahhed? Nothing my friend. Unfortunately photo paper cannot be recycled and must be relocated to the trash bin. Curses! Our family hadn't sent photos out it years and though I wanted to keep the friends and family up to date with our ever growing kids, I did not want to add to the Earth's environmental demise.

Alas an option. My solution? I printed small snapshot sized photos on our printer. Six printed on each sheet so for the 80 some odd cards we've sent so far, that's only 14 sheets of paper. They're color photos so obviously ink was used but because the photos are smaller in size (3x4) they didn't require a lot. The photos are still large enough for even Granny to see who we are.

Best of all, they are completely recyclable! This, combined with eco-friendly cards and we're sending green holiday wishes from coast to coast.

Christmas Tree Skirt

Martha Stewart I am not, but I can sew a straight line...or semi-straight. Fortunately that's all I needed for this project. A friend in the interior design industry had a bunch of old upholstery fabric samples she was getting rid of. They were gorgeous but small.

What to do with them??? Then it hit me! We'd been using an old bed sheet as a tree skirt all these years.

I started sewing these pieces together until I had a long strip, enough to go around the tree. How long is that? When it's getting irritating to manage around the sewing machine. Then after making three of these long sections, I sewed those together. Remember, put them face to face while sewing. I forgot the first time and had to undo all my stitching and start over-NOT fun. Finally, with some encouragement from Katey next door it was done and ready to adorn the bottom of our tree.

An Advanced Easy Go Green

Eco Friendly Christmas Cards

You can imagine my thrill to find these Christmas cards made of 50% sugar cane and 50% recycled paper! And I quote the package, "NO new trees were used in the making of these cards". Of course they can be recycled and in addition, were made right here in the USA keeping petroleum use for shipping at a minimum. Thank you Hallmark for providing an environmentally responsible option for sending holiday wishes.
If you don't see environmentally friendly cards at your favorite store, ask and let it be known the demand for responsible products is growing quickly.

For those of you who've already mailed your cards, keep an eye out for after Christmas sales. I'll let you in on secret; I bought these cards last January in packs of 12 for $1.00!!! It's always easier to be green if you save some green.

To see environmentally friendly options for the cards you receive this year.

Healthy Holiday Eating

As we head into the holidays, visions of chocolate things dance in my head!

With the office holiday party in the works, relatives heading into town, and the season of feasting about to begin, here are some tips to help you make healthier choices. Come New Year’s, you’ll thank me.

Read Labels-As The Everyday Organic, the very first lesson I teach my clients is to read labels. When you grocery shop, take a few seconds to turn the package over and read what’s in it. Are the ingredients hard to pronounce? How long is the list? The more confusing, the less likely you'd want to be putting that in your body. Avoid foods with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. When it comes to poultry and dairy products, opt for hormone and antibiotic free. As far as beef, ideally, cows are supposed to eat grass. If you can purchase grass fed beef, you’re doing your body a favor. It has less fat and more omega fatty acids than grain fed beef. Well worth the money when healthy eating is concerned.

Better Choices do make a difference- Our foods today are riddled with artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners. However, when at the mercy of someone else’s hosting, you can’t always make a perfect choice and you certainly won’t want to appear rude. Here’s the time you need to remember that better choices do make a difference. Try to pass on the casseroles and dips and instead opt for the simplest foods possible. Do your best to choose “clean” simple foods. This will help you leave that bloated “I ate to much” feeling behind.

BYO (and they think their generation invented the text lingo)-You never know what Aunt Sally might be serving this year and who knows what will show up at the neighborhood New Year’s Party. Save yourself the frustration and bring a dish you know you’ll love and be able to enjoy confidently. How about some chocolate chip muffins with flax seed? They’re actually good for you. On the appetizer side, fresh spinach leaves blended in a food processor with avocadoes and some lime juice makes a fabulously healthy chip or veggie dip. The spinach helps stretch the avocado and adds a bright green hue for the holidays. Crock Pot Chicken Wings are always a crowd favorite and good for game day too.

Drink Water-We’ve heard it before; water helps flush excess fat and toxins out of our body. So in the rush, rush of all the holiday errands and gift wrapping, don’t forget to tote that water bottle with you.

Crock Pot Chicken Wings

Crock-pot chicken wings
(from The Gluten Free Gourmet)

3 lb drumettes
Salt and pepper
½ tsp minced garlic
2 TB ketchup
2TB olive oil
½ C soy sauce
1 C honey

Put drumettes in crock pot and season with salt and pepper. Mix all other ingredients in bowl and pour over chicken. Cook 6-8 hours on low, stir at least once. (Jen’s note: Makes a great sauce to pour over rice!)

Christmas Cookie Recipe

JEN’S HEALTHY CHRISTMAS COOKIES

1 C Butter (organic if possible)
2 C Evaporated Cane Juice (or Natural Sugar-unbleached)
2 Eggs (organic)
1 tsp vanilla
2 C Wheat Flour
1 C Oatmeal
½ C Ground Flax Seed (can buy it ground or grind it in a small coffee grinder)
1 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp Baking Powder
½ tsp Salt
¾ C Dried Cranberries
¾ C Pistachios
2 C (or 12 ounce bag) Chocolate Chips

Cream butter and natural sugar til paste (will be grainy). Beat in eggs and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients through salt and stir into creamed mixture. Add Cranberries, Pistachios, and Chocolate Chips. Use spoon and put on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 350 for ~12-15 minutes. Makes ~ 3 dozen cookies.

Answers To Energy Test

Today employees at multiple Nokia Siemens Network's locations are testing their energy I.Q. See how you faired with yesterday's quiz.

1. Cleaning the removable screen on your dryer can reduce your energy use?

True. When the screen on the dryer isn’t cleaned regularly, in addition to a fire hazard, it puts unnecessary stress on the dryer. It then has to work harder and longer to dry your clothes.

2. Something as small as electrical outlets can be sources of air leaks in your home?

True. Foam plates can be purchased at any home improvement store and placed behind the plastic outlet plates to reduce any air leaks that may come from empty outlets. And you know those plastic protectors we used when our kids were little? They can protect more than little fingers. Those will help as well. Small as these leaks may be, they’re an easy quick fix.

3. Should tinted film added to home windows be applied to the outside or the inside of the windows?

Outside. This is very important because if applied to the inside of the window, it reflects the sun’s heat back onto the glass and the temperature can exceed that which the window can tolerate. When applied to the outside of the window, the sun’s heat is radiated immediately back outdoors where it belongs.

4. Which refrigerator is more energy efficient; a top freezer model or a side by side model?

According to the U.S. Dept of Energy’s guide, top freezer models are more energy efficient.

5. Is it possible to get rebates from your utility company for home improvements you make that increase your home’s energy efficiency?

Yes. Check with your local utility company for rebates available in your area. Some companies will rebate money for things as simple as changing the air filter in your Heating and Cooling system.

6. How can ceiling fans help in the winter to conserve energy use?

Ceiling fans are not just for producing cool breezes in those hot summer months. They can be used year around to ensure air circulation throughout your home. In the winter, those fans move the warm air that gets caught at the ceiling back down to where we can feel it. This is especially important for homes with high or vaulted ceilings where hot air gets trap in the winter causing your utility bills to soar while you’re just trying to maintain a comfortable temperature.

If you don’t like the feel of a breeze, change the direction your fan moves. Most ceiling fans have a switch on the side making this a simple step. Changing the direction of the fan to counter clockwise will push the air up to the ceiling but with enough force that it bounces off and back down the walls. However either direction will increase air circulation and makes cents (sorry, I had to).

7. Dirt on the inside of the insulation around your duct work indicates what?

A leak. The insulation is now acting as a filter which is why there is dirt on it. The concern here though is the air you’ve spent money to condition (either cool or heat) is now escaping before you ever feel it.

8. When considering insulation, what does the R value mean?

The R value measures the insulation’s ability to resist heat transfer. This resistance will keep you cool in the summer and cozy in the winter.

9. Ideally you’d like your attic to be so well sealed that if up there in the daytime with the light off, you’d see no visible sunlight streaming in.

False. Attics require proper ventilation to prevent heat build up. Ideally you DO want to see sunlight streaming in through the vents. That means they are clean and clear and able to do perform their best.

10. It is recommended that your furnace be set at ____˚ in the winter and your air conditioner set at ____° in the summer.

68˚ in winter/ 78° in summer
For each degree you set the thermostat higher in the winter and lower in the summer, you can expect to see a 3% increase in your energy costs. Therefore the opposite is true and because our heat is now set at 67, I can expect to see a 3% DECREASE in our energy costs. I like that side of the equation better.

11. The Georgia Governor’s Challenge requires all state agencies and departments to reduce their energy consumption at least 15% by which year?

2020 using 2007 as the baseline year.

12. There is an 80% chance your home is not insulated well if it was built before which year?

1980. The U.S. Dept. of Energy estimates that only 20% of houses built before 1980 are well insulated. Insulation creates a more uniform temperature through your home reducing your energy costs and making you and your budget more comfortable.

13. What does the average U.S. family spend a year on utilities?

$1900, according to the U.S. Dept of Energy. Most of this is spent on heating and cooling our homes. Next in line is our love of hot water and after that it’s our lights, computers, refrigerators, and all things that plug in.

14. Leaky duct work is responsible for up to 60% of lost air. This results in higher energy bills and also potentially dangerous levels of what?

Carbon Monoxide. Every home should have a CO detector to warn homeowners if it reaches potentially dangerous levels. Hire a qualified professional for duct repairs.

15. Condensation in between the glass on double paned windows indicates the seal is broken. Will this result in energy loss?

Yes. Once the seal in the window has broken down, it has lost its insulating value. Consult a glass company or licensed contractor to correct this.

We’d like to thank the following resources for their professional input:

U.S. Dept of Energy
Amie Webster, H.I.P Group 770-500-6834 HIPgroupInc@gmail.com
Sidney Avesian Construction 770-993-7370

Test Your Energy I.Q.

1. Cleaning the removable screen on your dryer can reduce your energy use?
True or False

2. Something as small as electrical outlets can be sources of air leaks in your home?
True or False

3. Should tinted film added to home windows be applied to the outside or the inside of the windows?

4. Which refrigerator is more energy efficient; a top freezer model or a side by side model?

5. Is it possible to get rebates from your utility company for home improvements you make that increase your home’s energy efficiency?

6. How can ceiling fans help in the winter to conserve energy use?

7. Dirt on the inside of the insulation around your duct work indicates what?

8. When considering insulation, what does the R value mean?

9. Ideally you’d like your attic to be so well sealed that if up there in the daytime with the light off, you’d see no visible sunlight streaming in.
True or False

10. It is recommended that your furnace be set at ____˚ in the winter and your air conditioner set at ____° in the summer.

11. The Georgia Governor’s Challenge requires all state agencies and departments to reduce their energy consumption at least 15% by which year?

12. There is an 80% chance your home is not insulated well if it was built before which year?

13. What does the average U.S. family spend a year on utilities?

14. Leaky duct work is responsible for up to 60% of lost air. This results in higher energy bills and also potentially dangerous levels of what?

15. Condensation in between the glass on double paned windows indicates the seal is broken. Will this result in energy loss?

Answers to be revealed tomorrow for Atlanta Nokia Siemens Network's Energy Day...

Trader Joe's Beef Recall

On Saturday, October 31 Fairbank Farms, of Ashville, N.Y., issued a recall for more than half a million pounds of fresh ground beef. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, the beef packaged on Sept. 15 and Sept. 16 may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. The products are marked with a sell-by-date from Sept. 19-28. To confirm if you have any beef in question, check the Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Services pdf of the food labels so you can see exactly what the packaging looks like.

Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts have reported illnesses linked to these products. One death in New Hampshire has been associated with eating contaminated beef. The products in question were sold in the following states: Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

“The products have been cleared from store shelves, but families who have frozen ground beef over the past few weeks in Connecticut from Trader Joes, Shaws, BJ’s Warehouse, or Price Chopper should look on the package for the code that would indicate if it’s part of the recalled batch,” Commissioner Farrell said.

For more on this, visit My Fox Maine or The Ridgefield Press.

This is another reminder that cows are meant to eat grass not grain. Even stores known for their organic reputation sell beef that is grain fed. That is what is known as "vegetarian fed". However, that is not the same as grass fed. It will be proudly labeled as such and will cost you more, but it's worth it.

You don't have to give up your love of beef. There are farmers out there with conviction enough to raise cattle the way it was intended regardless of the challenges. Please take time to visit White Oak Farms and hear the story of one such farmer and why he believes grass fed cattle produces healthier beef.

Made in the U.S.

When you think of the environmental impact of the purchases you make, you have to consider their carbon footprint. The shorter the travel distance from manufacturing to consumer, the smaller the footprint. This is the concept behind buying local. For many, defining “local” as the entire U.S. would be a vast improvement to the distance your stuff usually travels.

Remember, just because a product is distributed by an American company or says “assembled in the U.S.” does not mean it was made in the U.S.A.

On a recent shopping trip, I was encouraged by the products we found made right here in America:

Glassware by Anchor Hocking
Drinking glasses, candle holders, bake ware…
We bought measuring cups and glass food storage containers with plastic lids that are BPA free-these are what we use in our lunches instead of plastic containers. They’re also great for storing left-overs. Found ours at Home Goods but are available even at you know where. Yes, Walmart.

Hand Sanitizers and bath products by E.O.-paraben and sodium lauryl sulfate free
Easier on the skin, this is what our kids use at school to help fight germs without harsh chemicals. Find stores nearest you.

Raw food bars by Lara Bar
Yes, even packaged food is imported so read the label and know where it’s coming from.
Check their locator for a store near you.

American Greetings Cards
When you’re flippin’ the card over to check the price (we ALL do it), see where it was made. Easily available at Target.

Home Fragrance by Fitz & Floyd
Made with alcohol and essential oil-simple.
Though I believe this maybe a discontinued product, there are plenty left at Marshalls.

Now read those labels and be an educated and responsible consumer!

Free Groceries at Earth Fare

Now that you're reading labels, I bet you wish you could trade in some of that "food" in your pantry for some cleaner options. Guess what? You can! If you're lucky enough to live near an Earth Fare, they'll take your high fructose corn syrup and trans fat filled salad dressing, peanut butter, pop, and cereal and trade it in for an organic version- FOR FREE! It doesn't matter if they're opened or even mostly gone. That's a deal you can't pass up. Find a store near you and sign up now! They'll send you the detailed coupon (must be present for exchange). Then all you have to do is raid the pantry.

FIGHT GERMS NATURALLY

It’s that time again; cooler weather, cozy sweaters, football games, and …germs. These days kids are bringing home more than homework. Here’s some basic ways to fight germs naturally without all the harsh chemicals.

WASH YOUR HANDS-Okay, nothing new here. When my kids walk in the door from school, I always welcome a peck on the cheek. Beyond that, “DO NOT touch me or anything food related until you WASH YOUR GRUBBY HANDS…sweetheart.”

And for all you little boys who claim you don’t need to wash your hands because you “only went #1”, you flushed didn’t you? Chances are the toilet handle wasn’t disinfected just before you went in or after the last person. Get it? I rest my case. So to my nephews (I will leave the guilty party unidentified), you’re washin’ your hands when you come to Aunt Jen’s, #1 or not.

According to the Mayo Clinic, hand washing is the simplest thing you can do to prevent getting sick.

As far as antibacterial products, there’s controversy over whether they’re more effective than regular soap and if they’re making germs more resistant. I don’t know about all that but what I do know is that conventional antibacterial products and hand sanitizers contain harsh chemicals. So harsh, our youngest is allergic to them. We discovered this when she started school and her hands became so dry and raw. When they were on winter break, her hands cleared up. We finally figured out it was the soap she was using at school. In our home (and now we send it into the classroom as well) we use plain old regular soap and hand sanitizer made from plant essentials.

Reminder: while hand sanitizers are great in a pinch, they are no substitute for a good hand washing.

HAND TOWELS, CHANGE THEM REGULARLY- Ideally hands are germ free when being dried but let’s face it, kids count to 25 pretty fast when suddzing up. Oh, and please remember to turn the water off while scrubbing up-this should be a no-brainer. Put fresh hand towels by the bathroom sink a few times through the week. Cute finger-tip towels can be costly and all that detailing doesn’t hold up well with regular washing. An alternative is to use washcloths for hand towels. Buy a bunch, nicer ones in colors of your decor, roll up the extras and keep them in a pretty bowl by the sink. Fresh towels will be stacked up ready for use, just like in the spas.

WASH YOUR WATER BOTTLES-By now hopefully your family is using stainless steel water bottles and minimizing your plastic consumption. Please break the habit of just filling those bottles back up. They do need to be washed. Each person in the family should have at least two: one for the current day’s use while the previous day's bottle is waiting to be washed. Ours Klean Kanteens get hand washed thoroughly on the outside where hands have been all day. Then the inside rim and the lid. Unless it was filled with something other than water, than water, no need to dump a bunch of soap inside though a bottle brush once in a while on the bottom will ensure you haven’t missed anything.

TOOTHBRUSHES-We do one of two things. Either we include them in a load once a week in the dishwasher or soak the heads in a small glass with hydrogen peroxide for several hours. Peroxide quickly begins to oxidize bacteria making it effective as a disinfectant and antimicrobial agent. If you’re using an electrical toothbrush without a detachable head, you’ll have the skip the dishwasher and stick with peroxide. I know “they” always tell you to throw out a toothbrush after you’ve been sick. Well, toothbrushes are expensive and at least once I’ve been suckered into an $8 musical one so unless the toothbrush was on its way out anyway, it’s getting washed.

LIP BALMS, GLOSSES, AND LINERS-Rule #1, are all you teenage girls listening? NO SHARING…EVER!!! Aside from the obvious, it wouldn’t hurt to take a facial tissue dabbed with some alcohol around the tops of these every once in awhile. A cotton ball will work but will leave cotton stuck on the top.

DOOR KNOBS- Now here’s one you probably haven’t thought of. It’s one of Lindsey’s official jobs every Saturday morning. Armed with a rag and a bottle of vinegar and water (50:50), she cleans each door knob paying extra attention to the door knob of the water closet because, well…no one washes their hands until after they’ve come out of the water closet. By the way, when cleaning toilets, don’t forget to disinfect the handle. Light switches, phone receivers, and computer keyboards are other “high touch” items and could use a wipe down regularly. Computer keys are small and you don’t want liquid getting down in there. Q-tips dabbed in alcohol are great to wipe each key with. Have some dry ones on hand too in case you accidentally over do it

And there you have it. May you have a happy, healthy season.

How to build and eco-friendly wardrobe

This pea coat by Vaute Couture is beautiful, feminine and proceeds support a good cause, The Farm Sanctuary. The shell is 100% recyclable, the liner 100% recycled, and the buttons are made of bamboo. However at over $550, you might think twice.

Another way to build and eco-friendly wardrobe is to think “hand-me-overs”.

My daughter hit the jackpot in her Grandmother’s closet. She found a red pea-coat in need of a new home. It's a little big in the body and I offered to have it altered but she declined. Teens rarely care about a perfect fit. At $15 for a cleaning at the organic dry cleaners, this pea coat is ready for winter and we've saved a whole lot of money. So, go visit a relative or friend and rummage, swap, or steal (just kidding) until you’re each excited about something new to wear with a zero price tag and a zero carbon footprint. An Easy Go Green!

Green Shows at New York's Fashion Week

The Green Shows during New York’s Fashion Week were quite a success. High-end designers use their creative edge and concern for the Earth to combine fabulous eco-friendly fashions fit for Hollywood. Here’s a sneak peek (photos from Tree Hugger).





Gorgeous and Green made of organic cotton, hemp and other natural fibers.





These fashions are beautiful but quite exclusive and not something you’ll see us haulin’ the kids back and forth to soccer in. I’m sure you’ve guessed the price tags are quite exclusive as well.

What’s an eco-fashionista to do?



Let’s head back to our reality for some eco-friendly fashions we can all enjoy…





After searching many a website, it was obvious. The department store that can supply the entire family from Dad to daughter with organic cotton clothing is Nordstrom! Even the shoe department has quite a selection of shoes whose soles are made of 100% recycled rubber. Take a look and I think you’ll be pleased with the selection and the pricing.

Other noteworthy eco-fashions include:

Envirosax Carry all bags as seen in Mommywood!

Keds

Loomstate Organic Clothing

Zoe&Zac Shoes

Patagonia Sports Clothing

Do front load washers save money?

Wonder if a front load washer is will save you money?

Though because of its design you won’t be able to fill it yourself using rain water, it will save you plenty of water. A front load washer uses 13-17 gallons of water per load compared to a whopping 55 gallons used by the average top load.

After the rinse cycle, a front load washing machine spins at 700rpms, extracting water at the same time. This cuts drying time, saving you money on heating.

The proof of course is at the end of the month. My sister’s August electric bill in the steamy Southeast was $30 less. That’s significant and doesn’t even include what they saved on water.

Conclusion: A front load washer will save you money while conserving water and energy. It’s a win-win go green.

If you own a front load washing machine, we’d love to hear from you. Email us your story.

Washing with Rain Water

It’s been raining and raining in Georgia and I’ve put some of that rain water to very good use. Many thanks to my youngest sister for leading the way here. As soon as her rain barrel filled, she decided to do a load wash with the water. Old school-huh?

Her rain barrel has a handy faucet on the bottom making it easy to fill watering cans or, in this case, buckets. Her laundry room is attached to her garage so she didn’t have far to carry them and it was all concrete or tile floor making a splash less of an issue.

The load of wash turned out just fine and since rain water is soft, you only need about ½ the amount of laundry soap.

Though they insist our back gutters are clean, water continues to drip over the edge of them when it rains. Instead of spending my energy arguing, I grabbed 3 buckets and set them under the steady dripping/stream. A rainstorm later, I have 3 buckets of fresh rainwater. Walla!

Now unlike my sister, our washer and dryer are upstairs-carpeted stairs. Carefully I haul buckets up the stairs and pour them in the washer. Three 6-gallon buckets later and the washer isn’t even half full. Geez it takes a lot of water to fill those things.



Did you know the average front load washer uses only 14 gallons of water per load where as a top load washer uses 55 gallons for a full load? WOW!

After adding the soap, I loaded the clothes and set it to regular/ large load on cold of course. It began filling the rest of the way.


Your concern maybe overflowing. The washer automatically stops filling when the water has reached a certain level. With that in mind, you’ll want to put the clothes in before you let the washer continue filing or, in the event you have 55 gallons of water, before you completely fill it.

Worried about dirt in the water? I used the water right after it finished raining. If you wait much longer, I’d suggest just using it for your plants in the event mosquitoes have gotten to it first. Other than that, any other dirt settles to the bottom so when pouring, just stop before the dirt starts flowing in. It’s not hard.

Because most of our clothes are cotton, we don’t put jeans and t-shirts in the dryer to avoid shrinking. This also saves energy and it’s easier on your clothes so they last longer and don’t fade.

As I was hanging the jeans, I noticed they felt very soft. You know how stiff denim gets when it air dries? I wondered if there would be a difference and sure enough they were! Even my kids agreed. The rain water did the trick. Now it's your turn.

For more information on using rain water visit my friend the Rain Catcher.
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Packing Organic School Lunches

School bells have rung and for us busy parents that means about nine months of packing lunches. “UGH”, I can hear you now.

My girlfriend recently emailed frantically asking for help, “HELP! I’m going to the store and I don’t know what to buy”. Ok Lisa, here we go.

When reading magazines or in-store publications on kids’ lunch ideas, I laugh every time they mention hummus or tabbouleh as an option. Hummus? Really? What kid, besides my nephew, eats hummus?

Just because you want to give your kids healthy tote able food doesn’t mean they don’t have to like it. Now, I’ll admit these lunch bags have stared back at me empty many a morning while I’ve asked myself that dreaded question: What to pack for lunch.

Here’s some help from my own busy, kid tested household. First of all start with what your kids like. If they enjoy the standard sandwich, chips, fruit and a treat start there making it natural and as organic as possible. Let’s break it down item by item.

Sandwiches-If the classic PBJ is on the menu, choose all natural peanut butter made with peanuts and salt. Avoid the brands with added sugar and/or hydrogenated oils. Lucky for me, my store brand peanut butter is not only all natural, it’s the cheapest brand on the shelf and yes, it tastes fabulous. If you want organic pb, go for it. The added expense is pretty significant here so I stick with natural myself. You may even experiment with almond butter instead of peanut butter or raw honey instead of jam. If you want jam, again read the labels and watch for added flavors, colors, and sweeteners (including artificial ones). There are some great brands out there sweetened only with fruit juice.

Perhaps a deli sandwich is more to their liking. Our girls love a good turkey and cheese sub. This is the not the place to cut corners. Deli meat from animals not given added hormones or antibiotics and not preserved to last “forever” will cost more, enough to make you reconsider. Don’t. Stick with your guns and cut costs elsewhere. We buy hormone, antibiotic, preservative free deli meat and I have grumbled under my breath more than once when looking at the price but then I look at those little faces and I’m reminded it’s well worth it. Because this meat is not preserved, do not buy a week’s worth. It won’t last. Buy what you will eat in the next two or three days and then pack something else or make another quick trip to the store for more. The cheese we buy is also from cows not treated with hormones. Other than that the sandwich is simple, a little mayo and that’s it. No onions, lettuce or tomato b/c they either make your breath stink or get soggy, none of which are cool in a school cafeteria. Which is why egg salad and tuna fish, though favorites at home, are not welcomed in the lunch bag.

The bread-we go all natural here too. They love the baguettes from the bakery so when doing our traditional Sunday run to the store, we pick up a loaf and use it for sandwiches the first two days of the week. Other than that, we choose loaves off the store shelves. I have tried organic breads from the bakery but they are expensive and dry and to me not worth it. On the bread aisle, I’ve found organic brands comparable in price to the conventional and are even buy one get one free from time to time! That’s when you stock the freezer.

My kids hate the crust. Why argue? I cut the crust off, throw them in a jar in the freezer and use them to make croutons and bread crumbs. Everyone’s happy and no food wasted. Plus I never have to buy croutons or bread crumbs again.

That should cover it on sandwiches.

Besides a sandwich-Egg noodles with butter and peas will work for my kids if their in the mood. In the morning I’ll boil the noodles; they only take about 5 minutes. Drain, toss with butter and throw some frozen peas on top. By the time lunch rolls around the peas are defrosted and though the noodles aren’t piping hot, they are room temperature and still soft and yummy.

Fried rice is a great solution for left over rice. If they’re taking it to school, I’ll omit the egg since it won’t be refrigerated. Once again, I’ll quickly do this in the morning so it’s the right temperature at lunch time. Heat some olive oil, fry the rice a bit, add frozen peas and carrots, toss a couple of times and turn the heat off. Season to taste and pack it up.

Those lunch things. You know the ones; the crackers and cheese are all nicely packed up with a juice and a candy bar along with additives, preservatives and a nice price tag. Make your own. Buy all natural whole grain crackers, maybe even try flax crackers. An organic cheese block can be cut into cute little squares in minutes and the deli will be happy to cut you a thick slice of ham or turkey (all natural of course) so you can make those bite sized pieces just like the big guys. A few homemade cookies will be healthier and much tastier than any packaged goody. Make a few of these and you’ll never buy a vacuum packed cheese and cracker lunch again.

Chips-Go all natural. No need for forty something chemicals in your “cheese” infused flavor injected chips. Potatoes or corn, salt, oil. It doesn’t need to get much more complicated than that.

Fruit-My mom always packed a piece of fresh fruit in our lunches everyday and guess what? I do the same for my kids-thanks Mom! Take it a notch higher by thinking organic and local if possible. When buying produce, remember when you buy seasonal you get the best value. When fruit is in season, the organic version is comparable in price and sometimes the same as their conventional counterparts. If you can’t buy organic, use the dirty dozen and clean 15 lists to help you pick and chose. Aside from the standard apple or orange, how about organic grapes or strawberries, ½ a kiwi, pieces of melon cut bite size? Those are favorites in our household and I’ll share packing ideas in my next blog.

Drinks-When choosing milk, choose organic and watch for added sugar and flavors even in the organic brands. Soy, rice, and almond milk are popular alternatives to dairy but again, read the labels. That chocolate soy milk goes down silky smooth for a reason. It’s delicious, no way around that, but “it’s a treat”. At least that’s what I tell my kids.

Boxes of juice and small water bottles are cute and convenient but do create more waste. How about buying a stainless steel water bottle for everyone in the house and filling it up each day with their drink of choice (preferably filtered water)? Not only will you be cutting waste, you’ll be cutting costs.

Snacks-Our kids are allowed a snack at some point during the school day so I have to pack that too. A Jen’s Healthy Whole Wheat Muffin is their favorite. You’ll never see these coming home uneaten. Yogurt was a favorite until I realized how much sugar was in those things. Good gracious. We’ve had to back off those a bit, but every once in a while, we do it.

Whole food bars are quite popular now and there are some great flavors to choose from. Read the labels and know what you’re buying. Look for simple ingredients like dates, almonds, coconut. If it gets hard to pronounce, you’d have to wonder why. The good bars aren’t cheap, I’ll admit. Some weeks we can do this and some weeks we can’t, but that’s what keeps lunch interesting. When we can, our favorites are Lara Bars and Pure Bliss Bars home grown right here in Atlanta

Homemade nut mix is our ultimate stand bye. We get various unsalted raw nuts and one type of roasted and salted nut. There’s enough salt on those to salt all the raw nuts so we’re good on flavor. Then we get either, yogurt or chocolate covered almonds, pretzels or raisins. Add some raw pumpkin and sunflower seeds and we’re ready to mix.

The girls each have a bowl and make their own. I do monitor the sweet stuff going in but other than that, it’s all theirs. The mix is loaded in empty glass jars and stored in the fridge ready to go for the week.

So there you have it, lunch ideas to keep you munchin’ for a while. Remember, think clean ingredients. The fewer the better and choose organic whenever possible. Keep this in mind and I’m sure all our kids will agree, lunch is the best part of the day!
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"The Dirty Dozen"

If you can’t purchase all organic fruits and vegetables, at least avoid the “dirty dozen”; those fruits and vegetables known to be high in pesticide residue according to The Environmental Working Group.

Closet Recycler Comes Out

About a year and a half ago I was talking to my neighbor about all things green and she pooh poohed it all. "I don't go for all that green and organic stuff", she said.

Your first thought maybe to suspect she wasn't willing to put in the "extra effort" to recycle. Not an excuse this one could use. I have on occasion found Katey on her back patio making yarn from fibers on her spinning wheel. Yes, spinning wheel as in the Sleeping Beauty kind.

That alone is back to nature more than most of us can boast. Talk about a zero carbon foot print... Anyway, she wasn't convinced, at least not yet.

So the other day she comes over asking to use the fax machine. As I'm helping her figure out which way to load the paper, I notice it's printed on both sides. She comments, "oh excuse the two sides, I used recycled paper." You what? What was that?

"Ya well paper's expensive..." Yes it is. Everyone has their price and Katey's is a $2.50 ream of paper. Not bad. What's yours?

Free entrance to Museums with Museums on Us

It's the first weekend of the month and all you Bank Of America customers get your wallets out! That ATM card may not be good for getting much cash out of the box, but it can get you into 100 museums nationwide for FREE. Yes my friend, for FREE! From the de Young Museum in San Francisco, the Metropolitan in NYC, and the Miami Children’s Museum, all you have to do is flash any Bank of America card on the first full weekend of the month and you’re in! Here at home we’re hittin’ the zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Fernbank. While the offer is good for the cardholder only, I’ll be using any buy one get one free coupons I can find for the kids. Ok it’s the first full weekend of the month. Find out what’s in your area!

Slow Food, USA Time For Lunch Eat-In

Want to help change the food served in your child's school? Here's an opportunity to take part in a nationwide movement to get the attention of decision makers to radically improve the food served in our nation's school cafeterias.

This month venues all across America are hosting Eat-Ins or giant potlucks for us southern folk. The goal is to remind us all that real food is within our reach and to let our legislators know that while we understand budgets are tight, the food served to our kids shouldn't be on the chopping block.

The push for real food in schools was started by Slow Food USA, an educational non-profit organization. Learn more about Slow Food, USA, find an Eat-In near you or simply sign the petition. The choice is yours but please choose.

XYLITOL

Our recent article on alternative sweeteners has prompted some comment and questions on the sweetener xylitol. If you haven’t heard of it, you’ve probably ingested it. Xylitol is used in chewing gum, breath mints, toothpaste and mouthwash. It’s also found in products labeled organic and natural. So why didn’t I have it listed as one of my favorite alternatives?

Though mainly on my hunch, I did not take to xylitol with the zeal of most. Products that require any significant processing leave me cautious. Honey is from bees and evaporated cane juice is simply just that. These are simple methods of “processing” I actually understand. There are quite a few steps in making xylitol-a sugar alcohol and it begins to sound quite scientific. According to the site XylitolForYou.com, it was discovered in 1891 by the German chemist Emil Fischer. Hmm, I wonder if the chemist was out in his garden?

In the United States most xylitol is now corn derived, though originally it was made using birch trees. That brings up the issue of genetically modified corn. If that is a concern for you, you’d want to consider what source is used for the making of xylitol. Personally, I am not a fan of any genetically modified crops.

There is now a fast and growing concern regarding dogs being poisoned by xylitol. Obviously their consumption of it is accidental as they don’t normally chew gum however, it's revealed something pretty scary for pet owners. According to The Animal Poison Control Center xylitol rapidly reduces a dog’s blood sugar level and can result in seizures and has been linked to liver failure in some dogs.

I can hear you now, “that’s in a dog, not in a human”. Remember a few years ago when dogs were dying because melamine was in their food? Do you want melamine in your chewing gum? I’m just asking.

Some people will argue “Xylitol is produced in our bodies anyway, of course it’s natural”. Hormones are also produced in our bodies but I still don’t want them added to my food. For more information on health concerns visit Natural News.

Rebecca Wood is the author of The New Whole Foods Encyclopedia and winner of the Julia Child (IACP) Award. I’ll share with you her thoughts on xylitol penned some ten years ago:

“A byproduct of the plywood industry, xylitol is extracted from birch cellulose by an energy-intensive chemical process. This non-caloric sweetener may also be made from other hardwood chips, almond shells, pecan shells, cornstalks, or corncobs. Pound for pound, xylitol costs about ten times as much as white sugar but its sweetening power is far greater.
Xylitol is used in sugarfree gum, candy, and jam. In animal studies, it is linked to cancer, urinary kidney stones n bladder inflammation. Not recommended.”

There’s a reminder to me, if you have a hunch to avoid an ingredient, it’s best to follow it even if you don’t have the information to justify it at the moment. Then do your research and decide if you want to continue avoiding it or introduce it into your personal food chain.

When making choices for my family I choose to stick with the least altered ingredients. I know this information on a zero-calorie sweetener makes it hard when looking for ways to cut calories. There just seems to be no easy way out of my Dad’s advice regarding sweets, “enjoy everything in moderation”.

Yoga for health and cellulite reduction

Saturday morning Sydney and I headed bright-eyed and bushy tailed up to my friend Stephanie’s yoga studio. We were going to start our Saturday with a 10am yoga class. Shoes off, hair pulled back, mats unfolded. We were ready. Susan was our instructor and because this was an open house, she took her time knowing most of us had never experienced a yoga class in our lives.

The hour flew by as we maneuvered different positions, calmed our minds, and pushed our bodies just a little bit more each time. I’d like to tell you I remember it all and have incorporated each and every move into my daily life but that would be a lie. However, what I can tell you is that I’ve been more conscious of how I stand for any length of time-thighs back then pelvis tilted forward. Automatically you stand taller and aren’t slumping adding pressure to your lower back. You feel your abs engage slowly turnin’ that fridge pack into a six pack just by standing still.

Probably one of the most familiar yoga positions is downward facing dog. Seems basic enough right? You start on your hands and knees, wrists under the shoulders and knees lined up under the hips; nice and square. Next turn your toes under and slowly straighten your legs, pushing them back and lifting your tail end up. Keep your knees slightly bent as you straighten out your legs. Remember, do this slowly and hold for several full breaths. Slowly walk your hands to your feet and then slowly come up letting your fingers drag along your legs as you rise; one vertebrae at a time. Once you get to your upper back, round back your shoulders raising your head last. Coming up slowly prevents you from getting dizzy.

A simple basic move I use all the time when stretching before a tennis match. Now here’s what I didn’t know. This one move does wonders for your lymphatic system. In fact it helps to drain the lymph nodes of built up toxins which is crucial for optimal health and even cellulite reduction. Ya, I knew that last one would get your attention.

If the only yoga move you ever do is a down dog every couple of days, you’re doing pretty good. And I thought all I was doing was stretching my hamstrings before a tennis match. I’ve been down doggin’ it all week!

Free Yoga Classes

Stressful week in Atlanta? Then join me tomorrow for a free yoga class. Stillness Yoga in Marietta is having an open house and offering free yoga classes from 10-4.

Yoga increases flexibility, improves the health of joints and ligaments, aids in detoxing, and massages ALL organs of the body. Who doesn’t need that? First timers don’t worry. I haven’t done a full Yoga class either and I’m sure my daughter is in for some laughs but hey, that’s what the weekend’s for. I’ll see you there.

For directions click here.

Obesity in America-where does your State rank?

The obesity rate in the U.S. is sadly and steadily climbing. There’s only one state left that can boast (if you can boast on such a thing) an obesity rate below 20%. You’re right; it’s an “outdoor state”. Colorado! No surprise. Six states including South Carolina and Tennessee weigh in at over 30%. The rest of us rank somewhere in the middle.

Speaking of the "middle", have you read your labels lately? High fructose corn syrup is in everything from fruit juice and yogurt to cereal and cough medicine.

A friend of mine was shocked when I pointed out that the pancake syrup she loves is simply various forms of sugar with coloring. “You know there’s no maple syrup in here at all, don’t you?” Silence. I’ll take that as a “no”. Apparently those maple leaves on the label are just for decoration. Read your labels, know what you buying and for the skinny on alternative and natural sweeteners read Stevia, Honey, Agave Nectar, and More.


For a full list of states and their obesity rates visit cdc.gov.

Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup

You say tomato, I say tomato. Either way, we have a lot of them right now. You’ve had your sandwiches, and your salads and now what? Here’s a solution that can give you a head start for fall.

Watching Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa, make her Cream of Fresh Tomato Soup was glorious but heavy cream? Must I? Determined to create a vegan version that’s still just as good, I headed to the kitchen. My girlfriend had just given me 5 beautiful tomatoes from her garden. Thanks Sherill! Everything else was on hand.

Here is my recreated version that my entire (non-vegan) family and Sherill all love. Be sure to freeze some for those “there’s nothing for dinner” nights.

Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup

3 Tb olive oil
*1 ½ C chopped Vidalia Onion (~2onions)
2 carrots, chopped
1 Tb minced garlic (~3cloves)
5 large tomatoes (vine ripened and organic)
*1 ½ tsp evaporated cane juice
1 Tb organic tomato paste
¼ C chopped fresh basil leaves
*3C filtered water
*2 vegetable bouillon cubes
*1 tsp kosher salt (can use sea salt but start with 1/2tsp)
2tsp freshly ground black pepper
*¾C coconut milk
(* denotes changes from original recipe found on Foodtv.com)

Garnish with croutons or more basil leaves

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions and carrots and sauté for ~10min. until tender. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring to keep garlic from burning. Add the tomatoes, evaporated cane juice, tomato paste, basil, water, vegetable bouillon cubes, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil. Once at a boil, lower the heat and simmer uncovered until the tomatoes are very tender (~ 40 minutes).


Turn off the heat, add the coconut milk and let cool so it’s not piping hot for your next step. Carefully in batches, pour the soup in a blender and blend until smooth. If using a Blend Tec high speed blender, use the whole juice setting and any seeds left, will be no more. Pour blended soup into another pot and continue with blending until you have finished. Gently reheat the soup, garnish with basil and enjoy!
© 2009 The Everyday Organic

Biscuits: Whole Wheat Vegan Style

Inspired by the movie “Julie & Julia”, I decided to pull out one of my cookbooks-“Vegan with a Vengeance” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz. I passed the fist 8 recipes in this book because I don’t like tofu or texturized vegetable protein (whatever that is). We didn’t have any sweet potatoes so that took me to the 9th recipe: “Baking Powder Biscuits”.

Biscuits sounded good for the weekend and I would try mine with whole wheat flour and Earth Balance vegan oil sticks. Oops, I didn’t have any rice or soy milk, so I just used water.

The dough tasted a bit salty but before making a judgment, I’d wait to see how the biscuits turned out. At first I thought I’d never get 12 biscuits out of the dough, but I did. I just kept reincorporating the dough after I’d cut out as many as I could, re-patted it out and cut a few more. No rolling pin necessary-thank goodness b/c I don’t have one. I hate recipes that include “roll the dough out”. It always sticks no matter what. This dough didn’t!!!

12 minutes in the oven….come on, come on…

As soon as I opened the oven door, my heart sank. They didn’t rise. They just looked like tan hockey pucks. Vegan biscuits, who am I kidding. They cooled, we tried them, and I got a “they taste salty”, and “I don’t like them”. As he reached for a glass of water, my husband said, “they’re a bit mealy”. Under normal circumstances I’d reply, “BUCK up people”, but I didn’t like ‘em either.

Back to the drawing board. I was reminded later that day by one of my foodie friends at Whole Foods that baking powder has to be fresh in order to work and when baking without eggs, that’s the only thing you’re relying on to get a rise. Ah Ha! I bought a new can of baking powder and renewed my zeal.

Here we go again and this time, I cut the amount of salt, used whole wheat pastry flour and tried again.

Not bad, in fact they were good and they rose! Add some honey, eat them hot and you got it. Now, I’m not gonna lie to you, these ain’t no Paula Deen biscuits but if you want vegan biscuits or are running short on ingredients, here’s the recipe for you:

Biscuits: Whole Wheat Vegan Style
*2C whole wheat pastry flour
5 tsp fresh baking powder (hint: buy the smaller cans instead of the larger so you’ll use it before it goes bad)
*1/ 2 tsp sea salt
*5 TB Vegetable oil sticks (I used Earth Balance Vegan buttery sticks)
*2/3 C water

* denotes changes from original recipe in Vegan with a Vengeance

Preheat oven to 450˚

Sift dry ingredients in a bowl. Cut the 5 Tb of oil sticks into the dough with a pastry knife or your fingers (easy here b/c if you work the dough too much you’ll get tough biscuits. Just do this enough to incorporate the oil). Add water and gently stir until a soft dough forms. Turn it out onto a well floured surface and softly pat the dough out until it’s about ½ inch thick. Use the rim of a small juice glass or cookie cutter to cut out 12 rounds. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet and bake 12-15 min. Cool slightly but eat them warm. Enjoy!

© 2009 The Everyday Organic

Forsyth Farmers Market

There's something to ponder...


While at the farmers' market, we had the good fortune of meeting the founder and a farmer with SAAFON, The Southeastern African-American Farmers Organic Network. Farmer Monts grows beautiful and delicious fruit organically. He drives from FL to Savannah each weekend to participate in the market. Remember, when you buy organic produce locally, you're supporting small farmers allowing them to continue growing organically without big business regulations and restrictions.


Pictured here is a proud Farmer Monts in the center, his mother seated in front of him, a friend to his left and Ms. Cynthia Hayes, founder of SAAFON to his right. Below are just a few fruits of his labor.

Paris Bakery & Cafe

Eating while your traveling can be such a bore, not to mention how rough it is on your health. Pre-packaged, preserved, plastic wrapped phony food is everywhere. Two years ago my family was lucky enough to find an oasis for our hunger and we've been fans every since.

How does Quiche Florentine with fresh spinach sound? Or how about Crêpes Palermo with Prosciutto, Portobellos, and homemade Bèchamel sauce. Then there's the sandwich named after one of my favorite places, Monaco-delicious white tuna salad with fresh tomato and Swiss. Is your mouth watering? It should be. All these can be served to you daily with a glass of champagne if you choose. Only 9 in the morning? No worries da'ling, you're in Paris! Oh and don't you dare leave without fresh pastries. Eclairs, chocolate mousse, Napoleons...no one does pastries like the Parisians. Owners, Andrea & Didier Martin are delightful and will serve you with grace, charm and good fresh food!

Not traveling to France anytime soon? Fortunately this Parisian cafe is a little closer to home and if you can make it to West Palm Beach, Florida, you're in luck. The Paris Bakery & Cafe is located on Olive Avenue near City Place.

Tell Andrea & Didier we said "Bonjour".

Free veggies for college students

University of Nevada, Reno students are getting their hands dirty. Over the summer they were able to rent a plot of land to grow vegetables. Among the list for pickin' are tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and greens. The EnAct gardens are part of an initiative from The Environmental Action Team to promote sustainability among the students while on campus and wherever they go after. For more info, check out the UNR site.

Think it's too late to plant your own vegetable garden? Not so. Check out these tips on how to get started on a fall vegetable garden.