Eco Mama's Guide To Living Green

JUST LABEL IT! Video Message to FDA

2012-01-27T08:03:00.000-08:00

Consumer based organization, JUST LABEL IT, releases new video by FOOD, INC. Filmaker, Robert Kenner as part of their Just Label It campaign to get some regulation from the FDA enforcing the labeling of GMO foods. “Labels Matter captures my conviction that consumers have the right to know what is in their food,” says Kenner. This is such a pressing matter, and already over a half a million consumers have asked for labeling. You can view the video HERE and also sign a petition to the FDA. Who doesn't want to know what's in their food, especially when it's genetically modified?!

Still Using Mainstream Fabric Softeners?

2012-01-24T08:37:00.000-08:00

Here is a laundry list for you, some of the many toxic chemicals in fabric softeners and laundry sheets:

A-TERPINEOL: Causes respiratory issues, edema, and damages the central nervous system.
BENZYL ACETATE: Linked to pancreatic cancer, causes respiratory problems.
BENZYL ALCOHOL: Damages upper respiratory tract.
CAMPHOR: Damages central nervous system.
CHLOROFORM: Carcinogen and neurotoxin.
ETHANOL: Damages central nervous system, listed by EPA as Hazardous Waste.
ETHYL ACETATE: Also on EPA's list as Hazardous Waste list, narcotic.
LINALOOL: Damages central nervous system, narcotic.
LIMONENE: Carcinogen.
PENTANE: Causes respiratory damage.
PHALATE: Common in fragrance and scented products, phalates are linked to various cancers, birth defects, and reduced sperm count.

Does that sound like a fresh summer breeze to you? I don't know why this is legal, especially since the Environmental Protection Agency recognizes most of it as hazmat. Children are particularly vulnerable to this chemical exposure and if you are using these products, they and you are getting it pumped into your bloodstream via skin and lungs constantly. Health issues involving the central nervous system include MS, ADHD, Parkinson's Disease, SIDS, Stroke, Alzheimer's, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, and many many more.

I remember once cutting short a visit to friends of mine because I couldn't sleep on their sheets. I never told them the real reason why I had to leave because I didn't want to hurt their feelings, but I left with a raging migraine and it's interesting to note that one of them is a physician. For those of us who do not use chemical fragrance, we can smell it the same way a non smoker smells smoke. It gets on our clothes if we hug someone who's used it, it can trigger asthma attacks, migraines, nausea, and more. It's just as bad if you are exposed to it via someone's dryer duct. The EPA has called it air pollution!

Fragrances are masking the smells of harsh chemicals and they are marketing that as fresh and clean. Whether the smell bothers you or not, you are being exposed to some bad stuff that damages your health. Isn't it counter intuitive to wash your clothes in dangerous chemicals in an effort to get them clean and fresh?

So. What would be a good alternative? If you want bottled fabric softener, you can get non toxic varieties at your local co-op and stores like Whole Foods, and even delivered right to your door via Amazon. I love their subscribe and save programs which are convenient and save me money. I also really love soap nuts which naturally soften clothes while they wash. If you want your laundry to have a scent, lavender and other essential oils are ideal and there are many recipes online for making your own non toxic fabric softeners.

Image Credit: Photochiel

Organic Fair Trade Valentines

2012-01-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

"Iguana tell you something..." Need some cute and cheeky Valentine's for the kiddos? Check out these organic Fair Trade Valentine sets from Equal Exchange. Each one comes with chocolates and Valentine cards and includes a bookmark explaining where Fairly Traded chocolate comes from. This is a limited edition set, so sign up HERE to be the first to know when they become available.

Giveaway: Eco Strip

2012-01-17T10:19:00.000-08:00

The Eco Strip Power Strip:
The Eco Strip is a power strip that allows you to conserve energy and save money by putting an end to Vampire energy drainage. You just plug your computer into the powerstrip, plug the usb cable into the port on your computer, plug in your peripheral electronics such as printers, scanners, etc. When it's time to power down, the Eco Strip cuts off power to those devices, no more fumbling around on the floor amidst a tangle of cords. This is said to save you up to $150 per year, in addition to reducing your carbon footprint and doubling as a surge protector.

In their words:
"For some the motivation to adopt changes like this is their concern about doing the right thing for the environment, while others may be focused on the money they save. Even if you're primarily interested in saving money, EcoStrip is still a great option. "EcoStrip has created a revolutionary product that I am recommending to all of my green real estate investor clients," said Jim Simcoe, President of Simcoe Consulting. "This ingenious product saves money and energy while delivering optimal performance.
This is the kind of low-hanging fruit most green teams dream of, just plug it in and it goes. If only getting people to recycle was that easy."
The Giveaway:
To enter for your own ECO STRIP, head over to Greenwala and just leave a comment.
Please note: Greenwala Master Contest Rules apply.

Anamalz: Must Have Eco Toys

2012-01-16T04:45:00.000-08:00

When my son was little, I was a huge fan of Holtztiger--cute wooden non toxic animals from Germany. I'm still a fan and I've saved them for my son to hopefully pass down to his children. Back then, Anamalz didn't exist, or he'd have a box of those to pass down as well. If you have kids, you have to see these adorable little animals.

Anamalz are non toxic wooden toys made from sustainable maple. These are super cute and I think will appeal to children for a little longer because they are posable and more interesting to older kids. The soft velvety fabric is great for little ones who might be teething. Each animal is hand panted with nontoxic water based paint. They come in four categories--Farm, Wild, Australian and Prehistoric. The dinosaurs are so cute! Anamalz has an interactive website for kids with anamalz--they can enter their password and enjoy animations, play games, and get environmental preservation tips. Find them HERE.

Enlightened

2012-01-13T07:57:00.000-08:00

Have you seen Enlightened? I caught it on HBO over the weekend and while I was happy to find a show that is not about doctors, lawyers, and cops and forensics (which seems to be the majority of entertainment options these days), I'm not sure if I like Enlightened or not. Laura Dern is always wonderful to watch, she's such a good actor. I also really like Luke Wilson who plays her drug addicted ex-husband. Actually, all the performances in this show are well done. But the characters--not that likable.

In fact the protagonist is at times so annoying, if it weren't for Dern's sensitive portrayal, I don't know if I would have continued to watch. She plays a corporate exec who has a breakdown and heads off for a retreat to get better. She comes back refreshed and focused on healing herself and everyone around her. It makes for some humor, but it's black humor--this stuff is dark, almost depressing. I like black comedy, but this often veers too far into drama territory for me. Enlightened seems to really be taking jabs at environmentalists by playing on the outdated stereotype that environmentalists are hippies and newagers.

There is a particularly annoying episode where she is visited by a friend from the treatment center played by Robin Wright. Her character also tries to fix everyone around her and makes a mockery of healthy living. These women are portrayed as irrational and self centered, even their focus on helping others comes off as self serving and manic.

While I do appreciate flawed layered characters, I am weary of this cliche of the healthy food eating environmentalist as whackadoo. I was really hoping for a more "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore" situation as opposed to the perpetuation of that old stereotype. There is a scene where Dern's character is giving a presentation to the corporate heads, attempting to educate them on what is happening behind the scenes, informing them that their company is responsible for toxic waste and that their products contain carcinogens, she's trying to rally and come up with solutions. She's doing this, by the way, against a backdrop of a bee mural (colony collapse disorder?) in a room and building where the decor is deceptively green with photographs of nature and all the appearances of being safe and clean.

I realize they are also taking a jab at corporate corruption, but the execs come off as reasonable and sane while the lead is potentially on the verge of another breakdown. Which, while maybe that's accurate, it sure isn't inspiring. This show is up for an Emmy and is returning for another season. You can't help but root for someone with such good intentions as this protagonist, but I really hope she returns with more self awareness and potency.

Jazz up your Salads with the Rosle Grater

2012-01-12T02:38:00.000-08:00

Want to add some variety to your salads? Add some grated vegetables. The colors and textures turn a plain salad into a rainbow of flavor and sensations. My six year old son may not be in the mood for a salad, but if I show him a bowl full of bright green lettuce, orange shredded carrot, ruby red shredded beets and some sunflower seeds, that gets his attention! Sometimes pulling out a box grater and then having to clean it up seems like too much work. But a simple grater like this new Coarse Grater from Rosle fits the bill for fast and easy salad prep.

You can find cheaper graters, but they are not such a pleasure to use and will need to be replaced from time to time. The Rosle will probably never need to be replaced. It's made of quality 18/10 stainless steel and is dishwasher safe. I love that you can prop it right over a bowl and grate your veggies right in, or, because of the rubber foot, it remains stable on a cutting board. You could also use this grater for fruit, cheese, and chocolate. Find it HERE.

Kate Bush: 50 Words for SNOW

2012-01-05T07:40:00.000-08:00

Kate Bush is one of my favorite musical artists ever and I've been waiting with for her latest effort, 50 WORDS FOR SNOW. We haven't heard from Bush since 2005's Ariel and many of us have been eager to see what she would do next. Just in time for the season, 50 Words does not disappoint, in fact, I haven't been this excited about new music in a long time.

Available on iTunes, be sure to purchase the whole album as one of the best songs (Misty) is not available separately and it's layered and lush and brilliant.

With songs about the mythical snow monster, aka Yeti, a love affair with a snowman, and the wonderment of snow, Bush is up to her usual magic and I can't get enough, highly recommended.

The One Resolution I Wish Everyone Would Make

2012-01-02T12:28:00.000-08:00

I say it every year, the one resolution I wish everyone would make is to go organic. This is a step that doesn't just enhance your own life, but changes the quality of life for your community and your planet. Harsh farming has damaged our soil which is much more valuable than gold. Our crops suffer and the folks working the farms are exposed to carcinogens and pay the price. Pesticides are linked to cancer and more maladies than I can count.

Outlawed in other companies, GMOs are gaining ground and the only way to know you are not getting frankenfood is to look for that organic seal. GMOs are implicated in health issues, further soil erosion, and some think waning of our bee populations.

Organic food can cost more, but not always, especially if you buy seasonally. Organic farms are not subsidized and farming is more labor intensive and involved. I have the highest respect for organic farmers and think they should be at the very top of our social status stratosphere, way above doctors and lawyers. They are creating what will go in our bodies and create us--literally! We have not been recognizing or paying the actual cost of quality food. Factor in health care costs in the long term, organic food is cheap.

If I had to move to an efficiency apartment to afford organic food, I would, that's how important it is to me. Food without the poison--seriously. It never ceases to amaze me this is still a choice. For those living in areas where organic food is hard or impossible to find, consider growing it or forming a community co-op. We are what we eat, on a cellular level, is there anything more important for your heath than to make sure that food is pure?

Holiday Excess? Try Coconut Water

2012-01-01T02:57:00.000-08:00

Have you been indulging during the holidays? Well who hasn't!? Whether it's salty foods or alcohol, coconut water can help. Coconut water is full of potassium and electrolytes and is perfect for dehydration. Too much caffiene, cocktails and salty snacks can take a toll and this is a great natural way to soothe and repair.

Though you can't beat the taste right out of the coconut, some of us don't have access to fresh coconuts. I'm leery of the Thai coconuts you find at the store as I've heard formaldehyde is sometimes used as a preservative. There are several brands out so we have the luxury of coconut water without having to track down the whole coconut. My favorite brand is ONE coconut water and they recently became certified organic. I buy it by the case on Amazon using their subscribe and save program. You can get it flavored with fruit juice, but I love it plain and find it deeply satisfying. It's wonderful to have when kids are sick as it is so hydrating and a little goes a long way. You can find it locally and online and I recommend keeping a liter or two on hand.

3 Eco Friendly Calendar Options for 2012

2011-12-30T12:28:00.000-08:00

Need a calendar for 2012? I use electronic calendars, but I still rely more on that paper calendar on the fridge. My son and I love to set goals and then circle the dates for the days we acheived our goal. For instance, every day I have a green juice, I highlight the date with a green highlighter. For days we meditate, we circle that with a blue highlighter, and so forth. It's fun to see all the green circles at the end of the month and gives you a sense of accomplishment. It's nice to track your progress and it's fun to have a goal. It could be anything, reading, running, doing a good deed, whatever you want to work on.

Check out this ENVIROMENTAL ART Calendar from Amber Lotus. All of the Amber Lotus calendars are made from recycled paper and soy ink and they have a strong overall environmental policy (read here). Environmental Art features archives from greenmuseum.org, a non profit online gallery of environmental art. Some are community based eco art installations which make a statement by incorporating objects from a clean-up, and some are more fleeting nature sculpture meant to be absorbed back into the environment.

WANDERLUST is another great option which features gorgeous photographs of Mother Nature and quotes from adventurers who embraced walking and the wild, like John Muir and Walt Whitman. It's lovely inspiration to get out there and enjoy mother nature on foot and makes a beautiful presentation on the wall or fridge.

For Children, I love this LITTLE CRITTERS Calendar featuring artwork by Kate Endle. These sweet images are perfect for little ones--my son loves having his own calendar and is fascinated by the passage of time. He loves to anticipate holidays and special events and having a calendar puts it all into perspective for him. Find this and many other eco friendly options HERE on the Amber Lotus website.

Just in Time: THE TIPSY VEGAN

2011-12-29T09:15:00.000-08:00

Need some ideas for your New Year's party? The Tipsy Vegan is filled with recipes for those who want to crank up the festivities food-wise. They're not drink recipes, they're food recipes, food with booze. It's campy and is packed with colorful photos and illustrations making it fun to read and perfect for a hostess gift. It would be fabulous for non vegans, and what an introduction to the genre! The slightly naughty will love this.

I have not had a chance to try any recipes yet (see recipe below to try one yourself), and truth be told, I would likely omit the booze, but I am excited to try the Spicy Sesame Noodles and there are a couple of salads calling my name. The Baked and Loaded Acorn Squash sounds great for New Years Eve, doesn't it? I love that this book puts an end to the idea that vegans are austere boring people and spices it up with some great humor and mischief. Find it Here.

Baked & Loaded Acorn Squash

Sweeten your winter suppers with this loaded squash that can’t help but warm you up from stem to stern when partnered with pears, granny smiths, nutmeg, cinnamon, and apple brandy.

4 acorn squash, halved, seeds and strings scooped out

3 tablespoons vegan margarine or extra-virgin olive oil

8 pears, peeled, cored, and diced

8 granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced

1/4 cup Calvados brandy (apple brandy) or apple liqueur

Juice of 1 lemon

1 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg

4 teaspoons cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the halved squash on a sheet pan, skin side down. If necessary, cut a slice from the rounded side to make the squash level. Place 1 teaspoon (or so) of the margarine in each half, cover with foil, and bake until squash has softened, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven.

Meanwhile, combine the diced pears and apples, and drizzle with the Calvados and lemon juice to prevent browning. Add nutmeg and cinnamon and stir until well mixed. Spoon the mixture into squash halves, dividing evenly. Cover with foil and return to the oven. Bake until fruit is warmed through, about 15 minutes. Uncover and bake watchfully until slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Yield: 8 SERVINGS

Image Credit: Amy Beadle Roth

EL NATURALISTA BOOTS

2011-12-28T03:03:00.000-08:00

Got some Christmas money burning a hole in your pocket? Or perhaps you need some rockin cool boots for New Years? You have to check out El Naturalista . They are a Spanish shoe company that uses recycled and eco friendly materials and operates under a beautiful philosophy of respect for Mother Nature, world cultures, and life. They are very artful in their methods and their designs are refreshing and colorful. And most of all, from my experience, they are super comfortable.

These Iggradasil Boots were inspired from Nordic legend. Each line by El Naturalista is taken from global mythologies, folklore and art. The Iggradasil line harkens back to the Tree of Life. Apparently in Finnish lore, the gods once planted a giant ash tree whose roots encompassed the world. How they got these cool boots out of that story I can't tell you, but I love it.

The heel gives you height while adding extra cush, they are not boots you want to take off. They are utilitarian while still being sexy. These are not clunky boots, and would be great with skirts and dresses and those who like a more feminine boot. But they're not too feminine--they're really just right.

The outsole has an interesting texture and it's made from recycled industrial waste. El Naturalista uses what they call a Frog Shock System to absorb impact and it works. I like the contrast created by this flecked material and the body of the boot.

The leather is treated with river rocks and in an ecologically conscious manner. If you look closely, you will see variations in the grain from this natural process. These boots zip on the side and also have laces in the back so you can customize your fit.

If you need them for a New Year's party, you can find them on Zappos (currently on Sale I might add) and get them in plenty of time. Have a look HERE.

Solay Fair Trade Himalaya Salt Lamp

2011-12-27T04:40:00.000-08:00

Salt therapy has been used for centuries (think salt baths, neti pots, etc) but the Salt Lamp has to be the most beautiful way to utilize the healing benefits of salt. Salt lamps radiate a warm negative ionizing glow that is said to be great for congestion, allergies, and cleaning the air. In person, the lamp is very calming and creates a cozy ambiance. The simple base goes with different decor and kind of disappears so that the focus is on the beautiful variations in the Himalaya salt rock. It comes with the cord to plug in and a light bulb. The on/off switch is quality, and located on the cord which is nice if you have it on your nightstand, you can just reach over and flip it on or off without a big reach.

The obvious place for one of these is the bedroom, but I think it would be wonderful in the workplace to keep energy levels up and to enhance the atmosphere, and reduce pollution from electro magnetic frequencies from computers, wifi and whatnot. They are said to enhance concentration and to aid in meditation. I think it would also make a very cool night light in a child's bedroom. If you have a big enough bathroom with counter space, I think it would be so soothing to look at while soaking in a bath (and doesn't that sound nice right about now).

You can find your own salt lamp right here on the Greenwala Marketplace. They come in three sizes, one being an aromatherapy lamp, to suit your needs. And be sure to enter the giveaway HERE.

Icebreaker

2011-12-26T10:02:00.000-08:00

Looking for some wool clothing to keep you warm this winter? Icebreaker offers some modern styles that will keep you cozy. I love their Realfleece. It's a natural alternative to the synthetic fleeces out there and it breathes, regulates body temperature and does not retain odor, it's perfect for travel and outdoor activities.

Sophisticated styles and a great ethical policy set Icebreaker apart from your average wool clothing. For starters, they have a wonderful environmental and animal welfare policy. The animals are well fed, free range, and there is no muelsing. You can trace the origins of each garment with the BAA Code.

Check out this elegant Igloo Hood. It's sleek with clean flattering lines, the neckline is especially pretty. It's very tailored and I find it runs small so consider sizing up with this. It's soft, no itch like you find with some wools, and it's very warm. The long length lets it function as a jacket, and paired with gloves and a hat will see you through some cold weather while allowing you to remain mobile. It's a nice, versatile year round piece.

For kids, I like the Camper Hoody. It's well made to withstand some heavy duty play. This is something that will easily be passed down from kid to kid and the design is classic, it won't be going out of style.

Find these and other toasty Icebreaker clothes HERE on their website. They offer free shipping and free returns so you can get your sizing right. Once you try it, you are likely to want more. Hint: I found some crazy good Icebreaker deals on Amazon.

Acorn Fuzzy Tex Slippers

2011-12-23T14:43:00.000-08:00

Need a last minute comfort gift? How about just some straight up comfort? For You. These fun fuzzy slipper socks from Acorn feel like heaven on tired feet, and they are warm. There's memory foam padding on the inside for extra luxury and rubber soles so you can run out to the mailbox if you need to. I love the gray, but they come in other colors and patterns as well. These and some hot tea spell bliss to me and I think they are a wonderful gift, and a great last minute gift even online thanks to Zappos. Find them on the Acorn site, Sundance (who has been offering promos), and Zappos (who can get them to you over night).

21 Drops: Great Alternative to Perfume

2011-12-22T12:50:00.000-08:00

If you are tempted to buy perfume for the holidays, remember that perfume contains carcinogens and irritants that can harm the wearer and people around them. Personally, I despise the stuff and get an immediate migraine from being around it. When someone goes to hug you and they are wearing perfume or cologne, you're stuck with that smell all day, and for people like me, we have to go and get a shower to escape the smell. I could go on and on about how much I hate perfume, the chemical stuff. And the more I talk openly about this, the more I realize I am not alone.

But I do like fragrance that comes from plants and flowers. Essential oils are a different story. They can be soothing, invigorating, and detoxifying. They can create a mood, and they can lift a weary spirit. 21 Drops has some interesting formulas and fabulous packaging that would be great for gifts. It's very modern, I love the colors and the the number graphics on the bottles.

The 21st Century Survival Kit provides aromatherapeutic support for life in our fast paced world which includes oils to Uplift, to help you Sleep and De-Stress. It probably wouldn't be too hard to think of someone who could use this. They use organic and wildcrafted essential oils, find them Here.

Holiday Gifts for the Outdoorsy Types

2011-12-21T09:45:00.000-08:00

Sea To Summit has some wonderful picks for the stocking. Wouldn't it be fabulous to put a Kitchen Sink in someone's stocking? With this portable sink, you can adhere to Leave No Trace principles (you don't want to be washing dishes in mountain streams) and also make things easier on yourself. Plus it's super cool looking and would make a great gift.

Also from Sea to Summit and perfect for the Stocking is their camp cutlery. I love the Alpha Set. It's light weight, also very cool looking charcoal gray aluminum, and also comes with a caribiner to hold it together and clip it to other gear. The holes on the end of each utensil double as hex wrenches--pretty brilliant. I also like the long spoon for eating out of unusual containers or stirring something hot in a pot.

Trekking poles are something you just might not think to buy for yourself, but wouldn't it be fun to find them peeking out of your stocking on Christmas morning? These Mountainsmith RHYOLITE Trekking Poles are a really pretty cobalt blue combining great design with practical need. They are adjustable, which makes them very versatile, and they come with removable baskets.

The grips are comfortable, the poles are lightweight aluminum and they are very good looking (the photo does not do them justice at all), and would make a great and unexpected gift.

Another unexpected gift would be the Steripen Adventurer Opti. This will purify water whether you are in the woods or in a hotel in a country whose water your body hasn't adapted to yet. It's also great for emergency preparedness, it's just one of those things that you might not think to have, and you might not use it every day, but when you do need it--it's a lifesaver. You just place the stem into a glass or water bottle (preferably filtered, if you are getting it out of a stream) and the ultraviolet light sterilizes the water. It's very straightforward and uses no chemicals. It takes batteries and they even offer a solar charger--how cool is that?

Finally, Black Diamond Lanterns. They're the best and I consider myself a bit of an expert on this topic having lived in places where power goes out quite a bit and thus developing a habit of hoarding light sources. The small ones are compact and so useful with the little clips on the top. My favorite thing is that they dim, which not only conserves batteries, but also makes for a nicer atmosphere. A lot of those LED lights are blinding and abrasive, but not Black Diamond's. I love the small ones (Orbit and Apollo) but sometimes you need a little more light. Check out their newest lantern, the Titan. This is the big daddy of the series and a super nice lantern. Though someone like me would love getting this as a gift, I think it would be great for the elusive male gift. If you need a man-gift, be sure to have a look at this because if anything, it's going to tap into his inner adventurer and I've never met a man who didn't like that.

* You can find the above locally or on Amazon with overnight or two day shipping.

Stocking Stuffers for the Foodie

2011-12-20T09:40:00.000-08:00

Eat Your Greens Organic Tea Towel: How cute is this functional reminder? It's art for the kitchen and perfect for those of us who can't live without our daily greens. I think this would be fabulous in a frame on the wall.

The first time I tried the Smoked Olive's Sonoma Blend, I got very excited because I love that smoky flavor and don't often get a chance to enjoy it. This is wonderful for vegans and vegetarians looking to change it up and also would be fabulous for raw foodists as the smoking process does not damage the integrity of the raw oil, I am told.

The Microplane Artisan Series 4 Piece Grater Set comes in different colors and would be great in the stockings of anyone who loves to spend time in the kitchen. They come in varying blades, each for a specific purpose. Each grater sports a cover picturing what the grater is meant to be used for such as citrus, ginger, and vegetables. Graters are a kitchen necessity and though they do come in white, the bright colors feel festive and energetic and I love the idea of color coding.

Angell Bars are Organic, fair trade, and offer gluten free and vegan options. And they're yummy too. The blue one pictured above is made with white chocolate and coconut and it's called Snow, how perfect for stockings.

WATERFI: Listen to Music while Swimming Laps

2011-12-19T08:27:00.000-08:00

Did you know you can swim laps and listen to music at the same time? How cool is this? And why didn't I know about this sooner?! WATERFI offers a waterproof iPod that allows you to listen to your favorite music while swimming your heart out. This is huge for those of us that love to swim laps, but get a little bored at times or need that extra push. Think of how fast your work out will go by with the Waterfi. You could also listen to college lectures (how I would have loved this while I was in school), motivational stuff, podcasts, Spanish lessons...you could accomplish two things at once.

It's very straightforward and easy to use. It's tiny, not cumbersome at all and it works. The device is an iPod Shuffle that Waterfi has sealed with a waterproof coating. This is one of the coolest things I've come across in a long time. You just strap it on to your goggles with the included velcro strap, plug in the waterproof headphones and go. There's a 2G memory which holds about 500 songs and it lasts up to 15 hours before it needs a recharge. You just plug it into your computer for charging.

Swimming is a wonderful form of exercise, I find it to be as good for my mind as it is for my body. People who run get to enjoy music, and I think you really get a better quality workout when you have the benefit of songs you love. You go faster and push yourself harder. That swimmers now get this benefit is fantastic. Though it would be nice for people who run in the rain or live in rainy climate, I think it's even more appropriate for swimming because when you're outside running, it's a good idea to be able to hear your surroundings. But in the pool, you're in contained environment and you don't have to worry about cars and whatnot. It's a perfect match.

This would be great for Holiday gifts (and is available on Amazon with overnight shipping), it would be super cute in a stocking for anyone who does water sports, snow sports, or traveling. It comes in a gift worthy clear acrylic box and makes a fabulous presentation. Wouldn't this also be perfect for New Year's Resolutions? You can get it with or without headphones, but you will need waterproof headphones for the water. I would suggest the Swim System but you can check out all your options HERE on their website.

Darn Tough Socks for Stockings

2011-12-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

There is something amusing to me about putting socks in a Christmas stocking, but it's very practical, everyone needs socks. Darn Tough Socks are not just any socks, however, and they make a fabulous gift. Not only are they very good looking and come in many different weights, designs, and colors, but they are very well made. So well made that the company guarantees them for life. Seriously, have you ever heard of such a thing? Talk about sustainable. My socks are expensive, and I'm almost never caught without slippers because I can't stand to walk on the floor in bare socks for fear of wearing them out. So there are those moments when I'm tipy toeing to my slippers or shoes so as to try to keep as the socks off the floor. With Darn Tough, I don't have to be quite so neurotic, uh, careful. I confess to tipy-toeing a couple of times, but only because the socks are so beautiful, whether they're guaranteed or not, I still want them to last as long as possible.

This time of year, I like knee socks. They're great under boots and when I'm not wearing boots, they give me the extra warmth I need. My favorite ones are the cushioned ski socks which are padded and super comfy. They stay up too which is important. Wool socks rule--they regulate your temperature, don't get soggy when you sweat and don't hold unpleasant odors.

I am completely sold on Darn Tough, they are made in the US and they are made to last, concepts I wish other companies would catch on to. They have a huge variety on their website, everything from plain and simple to feminine, to stripey and fun. They come in all sizes, so there's something for everyone in the family. Find them HERE.

EMILE HENRY Eco Friendly PIZZA STONE

2011-12-15T17:27:00.000-08:00

Need a super easy meal for those bustling pre-holiday nights? Pizza is fast and easy and fairly nutritious, providing you pile on the veggies. You can make it vegan, you can make it organic, and you can even make it gluten free. And you can make it Fast. Emile Henry's Flame Top Pizza Stone makes pizza easy and delicious, and it does it with that fabulous eco friendly French clay.

The pizza stones I've tried in the past (two of them) were just not functional. Little bits of food and oil would remain on the stone, baked in, only to smoke and create a bad burning smell the next time I tried to use it. I couldn't cut my pizza on the stone, so I had to then transfer it to another surface, and the traditional stones stain and are near impossible to get really clean.

What I love about this pizza stone is that I don't have to worry about any chemicals leaching into my food. Ergonomic handles make it easy to get in and out of the oven (others don't have handles at all) as well as add to the cool design. I can cut the pizza right on the stone which saves having to wash another surface like a cutting board or serving dish. And it's washable by hand or dishwasher and won't absorb soap-taste like other stones. It's super easy to clean and takes just a minute or two even with stuff baked on.

Trader Joes has pre-made pizza dough for $1.29 that couldn't be easier. Pair it with vegan cheese (or organic cheese which TJ's also has cheap) and load it up with veggies. Children love to make their own pizza and sprinkle their favorite toppings all over the pie. It really makes veggies more appealing to them in this context and you'd be surprised how easy it is to get them to eat vegetables this way.

It's also great for frozen pizzas (there are several great vegan, vegetarian, organic and gluten free options now), the stone helps make the crust bake optimally, and it keeps your oven clean. It makes a lovely presentation on the table, elevating the frozen pizza to a nice looking dinner. Pair with a salad and you've got a fabulous kid friendly meal.

You can use the stone for baking bread, but I have not tried this. I think you could also use it as a serving platter for appetizers and whatnot. The pizza stone comes in a gift worthy box, making it a great pick for holiday gifts as well and comes in several colors. Find it HERE.

LEAVENWORTH: Bavarian Christmas Extravaganza

2011-12-14T11:42:00.000-08:00

Nestled in the cascade mountains, the Bavarian themed town of Leavenworth, Washington, makes for a fabulous family getaway, particularly around Christmas. Leavenworth has an interesting history. Officially founded in the late 1800's, the town began to thrive when the Great Northern Railway built a route through Stevens Pass. It became a bustling town with a prosperous sawmill. However, the railroad company eventually rerouted and pulled out. After a sharp decline in revenue following the loss of the railroad and logging industries, the folks of Leavenworth decided to reinvent the town for tourism to boost the economy. So they hired German architects and remolded the village to resemble Bavaria. Over 20 percent of Leavenworth's population are German, which says a lot for how they managed to get the vibe right.

If you love Christmas, Germany is The Place To Be in December. Actually, almost anywhere in Europe, but particularly Germany as they really do it up for the holidays, and they do it beautifully. Having lived in Germany, I was very curious to visit Leavenworth and see if it felt familiar, and while I didn't exactly feel like I was in Germany, it definitely brought back some fond memories of Bavaria and I was thrilled to show my son. It was close--some cobblestone and a few Smart cars and Fiats just might have done it for me. Much of the architecture seemed accurate and there were even smells that transported me. The Munchen Haus smells like Germany and offers a couple of vegetarian options. We enjoyed a hot pretzel with mustard outside in their courtyard heated with lamps and fire.

This year, the city greened their celebrations by converting to LED lights and they did a beautiful job decorating. The village is very winter wonderland magical and ideal for children, particularly with sightings of both the German Father Christmas and Santa. It's also very romantic and hundreds of people get married and engaged in Leavenworth every year.

For families, Leavenworth is a great destination with something for everyone. There are places to sled with varying degrees of difficulty. For instance right on the main street there is a small hill for kids to play, perfect for little ones. For more of a challenge, there is a spot with pulleys to help you up the hill for tubing as well as cross country skiing and moderate downhill skiing. Snow shoeing is also popular and accessible.

If you would like to go on a sleigh ride, there are several options. Icicle Outfitters offers sleigh rides, complete with hot chocolate, apple cider and real cowboy coffee in a tent with a wood burning stove. Horse drawn sleighs glide along a majestic backdrop featuring the Sleeping Lady--an image you can see hidden in the mountain silhouette. Rides are inexpensive and in case you are wondering, the horses don't mind. They swap them out so they don't get fatigued and these are powerful animals who for centuries have been bred to plow fields and haul heavy loads. There are even farmers in Leavenworth who still use these magnificent creatures to plow their crops in lieu of machinery. Icicle Outfitters also offers guided trips, camping, hiking and fishing trips.

Leavenworth has a natural foods store, dining options offering vegetarian fare, and a Farmers' Market with organic produce. Leavenworth is actually the number one exporter of organic pairs in the US.

Lodging options are plentiful. We stayed at the Icicle Village Resort and found it to be luxurious and accommodating. I strongly recommend splurging on a suite. You might spend a little more, but you get a lot more and it really enhances the experience. There is a microwave and fridge, so you can bring some of your own healthy food and snacks--particularly nice when you have growing children that never seem to stop eating, and it's wonderful for those of us with special dietary needs.

The room was so inviting and comfortable neither one of us was in a big hurry to leave. We sleep on a Tempurpedic at home, with soft bamboo sheets and fancy pillows and we are very spoiled. When I go to a hotel, it's unusual for me to find the bed super comfortable and the pillows--forget it, I usually bring a travel pillow to supplement. This hotel nailed it with a plush mattress, soft bedding and perfect pillows, I slept great which is rare for me in a hotel. It was clean and quiet and very nice. The room also came with a iPod docking station/speaker so we were able to listen to Christmas music without having to bring along travel speakers.

Our room had a fireplace and a whirlpool bathtub which, for my six year old, was like having a little swimming pool in the room. Speaking of swimming, there is a pool on the grounds that is heated and enclosed in a big bubble. It was fun to be able to go for a swim even though it was freezing cold outside.

Breakfast is included and is set up as a buffet in the hotel's restaurant, JJ Hill. The menu, I was happy to see, includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, and a train circles the room while you eat, which is fun for the kids. They had it decorated festively and portions were generous. The Icicle Inn has its own movie theatre on the grounds and we went to see Happy Feet Two on a full size screen in a very clean cozy theatre. To get to the movie, you walk through an arcade, which is not my cup of tea, but great for some, it's another thing to do for kids which is nice for weary parents. There are enough activities on-site that you could stay right on the premises and still have plenty to do. Views from the inn are beautiful and our room had a balcony and a big window so we could really enjoy the mountain atmosphere. The hotel is in a good location, about a 10 minute walk from downtown.

We were there on the night of the Lighting of the Christmas Tree and the city had a special tent set up for hot apple cider and glowine. It was very festive and if you weren't in the mood for Christmas, you would be after this. The main street has some interesting little shops to check out. There is a Nutcracker Museum in a shop filled with nutcrackers and several places to find Christmas tree ornaments, many imported from Germany. There's a crazy hat shop with everything from Viking hats to kitty cat hats, to hats covered with eyeballs. There are bakeries, one of which is an authentic Bavarian bakery that was closed while we were there (which may have been a good thing after all). Shopping is plentiful, but when I'm in a new place there are two things I really love to do: eat and explore.

My favorite restaurant from my brief sampling was South, a Latin place. The atmosphere is rustic with exposed brick walls, lots of color, and Mexican fixtures. They have vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options and the food is delicious. I want to go back in the Summer just so I can eat outside in the courtyard. The Good Mood Food Cafe is another great choice and offers fresh juices, salads, wraps, and other healthy satisfying meals. It's kid friendly, with a little play table and chairs, and they aim to use organic, local and natural foods. There were more yummy food options in town than I had time to try, but there's always next time. I'd definitely like to visit again.

If you need a winter getaway that will satisfy the whole family and get you in the holiday spirit, or if you'd like a little taste of Germany without the overseas travel, check out Leavenworth. There are festivals all winter to keep you in wonderland mode. Find out more on the Leavenworth website HERE.

Toys for Budding Eco Engineers

2011-12-13T08:55:00.000-08:00

Would Santa like to leave toys that not only green but so fun the educational value escapes the child? You bet! Check out these fabulous blocks from Citiblocs. They come in different colors (I like the warm colors for this time of year) and are open ended fun leading to hours of quiet--that's right, quiet--fun. My six year old loves to play with these and I'm amazed at how calming and creative they are. The blocks are made from certified renewable pine and they are completely free of any toxins, so if they end up in any mouths, kids or canine, they should be okay.

The more technical oriented and older children will love science based kits from Thames and Kosmos. I'm especially intrigued by their Alternative Energy and Environmental Science projects. Check out this Renewable Energy Science Kit focused on wind energy. This is so cool, think of how toys like this could potentially have an impact on the future. I also like this Remote Control Machines kit which is so much more interesting than a plain RC car. Shaping young minds to create eco friendly transportation and renewable energy is very exciting and I think these would also be fabulous in the classroom.

For stockings, Think-A-Lot makes a holiday edition of their clever Think-ets, an open ended story telling game featuring little trinkets. There are numerous ways to play this game and their size makes them wonderful for travel. Not for little ones due to choking hazard, older kids get a kick out of using their imagination in tandem with being able to touch the little objects such as a Christmas tree, a snowman and a polar bear among others. My six year old loves to scatter them on the table and make up stories using the pieces for the story line. Think-ets encourage creativity, logic and reason along with good old fashioned fun.

Enjoy the Cold Outdoors in The North Face

2011-12-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

What do you wear when the weather is super cold, but also wet? If you live in a rainy climate, it's a little bit tricky. If you leave the house in a down coat and get caught in a downpour, you get soggy. But there are solutions that will keep you warm and dry. Check out this Brooklyn Jacket from the North Face.

It's a waterproof shell with down on the inside, so the water doesn't get near the down and it stays very warm. The faux fur trim on the hood is removable and you can throw the whole coat into the wash when you need to clean it (sans detachable fur). There are plenty of pockets for tickets, lip balm, id, money, etc., and the hand pockets are soft and cozy. This coat has features that keep wind and rain out, like the cuffs, belt and zip/button down combo keeping well sealed against cold. The fit is very snug, I recommend sizing up.

North Face makes another coat very similar to this called the Arctic Parka. For those preferring a belt-less look, this one hits a little longer for added warmth. Both coats have that durable HyVent 2L waterproof fabric that breathes while sealing out water and wind, in addition to ultra warm goose down on the inside of the coat.

I learned while taking the bus, or rather freezing at bus stops, that a good coat is a big deal. When I wasn't driving, in the winter, I began to think of my coat (and footwear) as my car and with that came a lot of freedom. It makes all the difference in the world to keep warm, opening up various options like taking the bus and walking and playing outside. Because of my proper cold weather clothing, I was comfortable taking the bus and dragged out getting a car a good extra year or two, not to mention being able to hang out in the cold and snow with my son as long as he wanted to. Buy quality and you only have to buy it once. Find these coat and other cold weather options HERE on the North Face website.

Allsop Eco Friendly Solar String Lights

2011-12-09T07:28:00.000-08:00

Are you going to decorate your yard for the holidays this year? Check out these fabulous Aurora Solar Lights from Allsop. Probably the most eco friendly lights I've ever seen, the beautiful globes are made from hand blown glass. Not plastic! Each one is unique and casts a magical glow.

The lights are attached to a clear wire and they give a generous space between the lights and the solar panel so you have many options as to how you want to configure them. You just place the lights where you want them, stake down the solar panel (or secure it it in a tree or whatnot) so that the panel can get light, make sure they're turned ON and voila! When the sun goes down, you have festive lights.

They come in different colors and they also come with copper hooks so you can really get that placement the way you want it. They are so much prettier than the new plastid LED lights, don't you think? I think they are perfect for the holidays, and they'd also make a fabulous gift under the tree. Find them HERE.

NEMO Asashi Tent: Big on Design, Big on Function

2011-12-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

"Design like you give a damn," it says in the Nemo Catalog. Music to my ears. All your stuff should be as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. There should be no ugly stuff, period, even your rugged gear should look good to you. I always say, just spend the money and get the quality thing that you love, that way you'll take great care of it and have it forever and it's way better than having to go through several mediocre things when you could have had the one good thing all along. In the end it saves you time and money and it's better for the earth. I think Nemo is one such brand that combines high quality and good looks to create things you hang on to forever.

Nemo is an exciting new company to me, though they've been around since 2002. I love their philosophy to protect the people and places that make adventure possible. Nemo allows their employees an off-day each month for community service as part of their Green Re-thinking program. They have heart and they have brains for great design--it's not an accident that their tents are bad ass and beautiful. Look at this gorgeous Nemo Four Person Asashi Tent. It looks like a work of art, but one touch and you can feel the quality materials, and it's loaded with little details that make it function like a dream.

The fly doubles as a beach shelter when paired with the optional footprint. I always recommend a footprint when they are available because they help to keep your tent in good shape. It's also very convenient to have a footprint--when you're done with your camping trip, you can just fold up your tent, nice and clean and worry about the footprint when you get home to hose it off. For the inside of the tent, Nemo offers the optional Pawprint which lines the inside of your tent for added comfort.

This tent has light diffusers--this is something I've never seen before. You put your head lamps in the four corners and it makes for some nice lighting. Small flashlights work too. There are four stash pockets (one for each person) and they all have integrated drink holders. There's a vestibule with a built in window to store gear. If you need extra storage room, there is an optional Garage.

I set this tent up myself in under ten minutes without looking at any directions. It's very straight forward and simple with features that make it all come together seamlessly, like the Jake's Feet corner anchor system which locks the poles into place, and the fly fastens with adjustable clips to get it nice and tight. It couldn't have been easier.

The carry bag is the nicest I've ever seen with a tent, with pockets and zippers for each thing. It even has a little diagram of constellations on the inside--how cool is that? Seriously, it's romantic. The care that went into this and that artful touch, you just don't find it every day. Tom Freidman (Hot, Flat and Crowded) was saying recently that in the old days, people put their stamp on things they made, their seal. They put so much thought into what they did they were proud to put their name on it, they took pride. Nemo seems to be doing this, in a modern sense, that's what I thought when I saw the constellation patch. He also said that only the companies who do take great care will move forward in our evolving world. I hope he's right because I'd really like to see more of this.

The Asashi is spacious and very comfortable. My six year old can stand up in this tent with plenty of room, and though, at 5'5, I can't stand completely, I find it roomy and easy to maneuver in. I like to size up with tents, so this is great for one to four people. Why not? If you're car camping, you can afford that extra luxury. This tent is too heavy for backpacking, though I'd love to see what Nemo has in store for that type of camping. This tent would make a super awesome gift for the holidays. Find it HERE.

Recycled Christmas Tree Ornaments

2011-12-05T20:30:00.000-08:00

Need some ideas for decorating your Christmas tree? Check out Crate and Barrel's options for recycled ornaments. I love these little bicycles made from recycled paper.

Or, if you like sparkle, these glittery stars are also made from recycled paper. They come in two sizes and they're so cute, almost nostalgic.

And finally, made from recycled tin, there's a star, a heart, and a tree to choose from. you can see the odd word peeking out and each one is unique.

Veggie Dyed Kork-Ease Ankle Boots

2011-12-01T04:05:00.000-08:00

Need some snappy boots for holiday events? Check out these fabulous MARLO booties from Kork-Ease. These boots have wonderful crossover appeal ranging from dressy to casual, from a whisper of cowgirl to metropolitan sophistication. Have you ever looked longingly at those fashionable cute ankle booties wishing you could wear them knowing full well you wouldn't last an hour in them? Being the boot freak that I am, I've been lusting after this style for the last couple of years but wouldn't dare attempt most of them due to the heels. I'm a firm believer that you can be feminine and sexy without killing yourself in high heels. And for me, heels are just not practical at all, I need my footwear to function.

I've been curious about Kork-Ease for a long time, I love the fusion of modern with retro chic. When I saw the MARLO Platform Ankle Boot, I thought, finally, an accessible ankle boot with a heel! These fit the bill in a big way. They are modern and fun, and most importantly, they are super comfortable. The side zip makes them easy to get on and off, the platform makes them manageable to walk in and provides height, and I just love their elegant simplicity which makes them classic. The Marlo works with dressier outfits to something more casual like jeans or leggings. The colors are natural and derived from vegetable tanning which utilizes plant tannins like bark and wood. Untreated eco friendly biodegradable Vachetta leather from Tuscany, Italy, develops a rich patina over time, giving each shoe its own unique look. They've got a lot of character and I can see them getting even more beautiful with time.

They run true to size, I take an 8.5 and unlike most boots in my closet, I did not have to size up with these, they fit perfectly and offer some arch support. If you are like me, you want as much cushion as you can get, so I put some gel insoles in and it made them feel just right. You can find these fabulous boots on the Kork-Ease website, Zappos, and Sundance. The different sites offer various colors, so be sure to check out your options.

Eco Friendly Emile Henry's New Risotto Pot

2011-11-30T11:20:00.000-08:00

Have you tried Emile Henry cookware yet? It's eco friendly, made from French Burgundy clay and absolutely no toxic materials. You dont' have to worry about leaching and it's literally from the earth. They have recently introduced the new RISOTTO pot and I think it's perfect for all that winter squash you (we) have around the kitchen this time of year.

Look at the gorgeous lines on this pot. It reminds me of Asian one-pot-meal type cookware, or a Mongolian hot pot. I've used it this way, it makes a fabulous presentation, and just seems perfect for a rich spicy Asian inspired soup. The ceramic holds heat, so you can serve from this pot and place it on a trivet to look beautiful on the table where it's handy for second helpings.

Of course it works flawlessly for making risotto, the depth made specifically for all that stirring. Butternut squash or pumpkin risotto is particularly decadent this time of year, and healthy, and can easily be made vegan. The little nubs on the inside of the lid help to circulate flavor and promote even cooking and self basting. Flame top cookware may be used on pretty much any surface, is dishwasher safe and is super easy to clean by hand. Emile Henry stands behind their product and offers a generous ten year warranty. Find the Risotto pot HERE.

Ibex Pez Long Sweater

2011-11-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

Need a sweater that will keep you cozy warm this winter? Check out the Pez Long Sweater from Ibex. It's super warm and versatile, functioning as a sweater and as a coat. That extra length envelops you in soft eco friendly wool that breathes and keeps you comfortable. I like Ibex for its environmental policy and attention to animal welfare ensuring that their sheep are well cared for and not mulesed.

It's machine washable, so you can play hard in this without worrying about wrecking it, it's durable and made for the active. Wool is ideal for active people and travelers as it doesn't retain odor and it regulates body temperature. It looks great with jeans, leggings and boots, and over a dress. With a hat, gloves, and scarf, you can change up the look by adding different colors, and wear it for a coat in moderate cold. It's nice enough to wear out to dinner, but rugged enough to wear on a camping trip. Find it HERE.

Organic Crown Maple Syrup for the Holidays

2011-11-28T04:52:00.000-08:00

Remember the days when a bottle of liquor was an apt holiday gift? Times have changed. People are more interested than ever in being healthy and if you are reading this, chances are you're one of those people and you're friends probably are too. That doesn't mean a little decadence is not in order from time to time. What can you give for holiday gifts this year that will knock their socks off and still remain true to their healthy sensibilities?

Check out this elegant bottle of Organic Crown Maple Syrup. It's handsome and dignified and would be a smashing holiday gift. If you are staying with relatives over the holidays, this would make a lovely offering, perhaps along with preparing a nice organic blueberry pancake breakfast. I think the bottle has a masculine presentation making it ideal for the men in your life from fathers to co- workers to sweethearts. Think hostess gifts, teacher gifts, friends...I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't be thrilled to get this.

Crown Maple Syrup comes from sustainably farmed trees in the Hudson River Valley. Crown Maple uses a unique reverse osmosis process to craft their syrup making it more pure than other syrups out there. You can read more about their crafting process here. When you think of what goes into producing a bottle of maple syrup, it's amazing it's a cheap as it is. You can also find recipes and purchase this delicious artisan syrup HERE.

Thanksgiving: 3 Reasons to Hold the Turkey

2011-11-23T04:37:00.000-08:00

Are you going vegetarian or vegan this Thanksgiving? A fabulous delicious thanksgiving feast is completely doable without the turkey, I enjoy one every year. More and more, people are rethinking the need for turkey on the table and switching to vegetarian options. There are many reasons for this, but the top three are probably the desire to have a cruelty free meal, to be healthier, and to make less impact environmentally.

Ethics: Every year over 300 million turkeys are killed for Thanksgiving. This is after they have endured a torturous life in outrageously cruel conditions in factory farms. They are kept in tiny cages crammed with other birds, they're shot full of antibiotics (which the consumer later ingests), they're beaks and toes are cut off, and on it goes until they are loaded on a conveyor belt, their throats are slit and then they are dipped into boiling water to remove their feathers often while they are still alive. Not very appetizing.

Health: Turkey meat is not healthy! It's high in saturated fat and cholesterol which is implicated in various diseases such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. During processing, fecal matter routinely spills into the cavities of the birds via eviscerating equipment which leads to Salmonella and Campylobacter.

Environment: There are over 7000 turkey farms in the US. Much of the billions of pounds of manure generated by these factory farms ends up in our water supply. Grain consumed by turkeys could go to the millions of people starving in the world. As stated by the UN, factory farming is responsible for more co2 emissions than all forms of transport combined. So globally, it's not a wise use of resources.

And as a final note, I think vegan and vegetarian food is more delicious and would choose it regardless of any other reason. It's not a sacrifice, and additionally, it's often cheaper and faster, and it's more nutritious. For more information, check out PETA's guide to Vegan Holidays, there are tabs detailing the points above as well, if you would like more information on that. Also, a quick google search will yield hundreds of free vegetarian and vegan recipes appropriate for Thanksgiving.

Two Vegan Pumpkin Pie Ideas for Your Thanksgiving Menu

2011-11-22T09:39:00.000-08:00

Need some ideas for Thanksgiving pies? A little twist on pumpkin perhaps? Even if you're not vegan, you might want to consider making these pies for Thanksgiving. For the last few years, I've been making the vegan cheesecake pie from Fat Free Vegan (it's not fat free, but who cares). It's so good, I might make it again this year.

But I'm also excited to try the vegan cheesecake recipe from the new Vegan Pie In the Sky cookbook. Though I'll be making it for the first time next week, I have no reservations recommending this as all other recipes I've tried from these authors have been great. Check out the blog post on Post Punk Kitchen which shares the recipe and the gorgeous photo at the top of this post.

ISIS Alpenglow Coat: For That In-Between Weather

2011-11-21T11:55:00.000-08:00

Too cold for a rain shell but too warm for your heavy winter coat? Isis has come out with that elusive in-between coat that rea. If you are looking for that coat to fill the gap between your down coats and those light weight rain slickers, check out the Isis Alpenglow Coat.

This coat is butter soft and does not make that swishy rain coat sound, it feels pretty luxurious on. A cute bubbly pattern is stitched into the fabric and it has a two way zipper which is handy in the car or any time you're sitting down. There's a stitched belt panel in the back which creates a slimming feminine line in the back and the side panels and the way the zippers are placed are also quite flattering. Two security pockets, one on the inside and one on the chest are great for tickets, id's and money.

It's machine washable and low maintenance and because it's not bulky, it would be great for travel. I haven't tried it in really cold weather yet, but it's perfect for 50 degree weather and up. I'm sure you could go much lower than that. It's done great in the rain, and though I wish the hood were more rounded and less pointy, but it's functional and works great in a downpour. It's nice enough that you can wear it with skirts and dresses, and casual enough to look great with jeans. ISIS is a clothing company focused on active women. I love that they make quality (read: buy it once) feminine clothes for women who like to get outside, or even more important, to inspire us to get out there. Check out the versatile Alpenglow coat HERE.

Just in Time for the Holidays: VEGAN PIE IN THE SKY

2011-11-14T09:08:00.000-08:00

Vegan cookbook authors Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero are so smart to release their cookbooks at this time of year filling vegan kitchens everywhere with that badly needed holiday inspiration. Look at the new marvel, VEGAN PIE IN THE SKY, just in time for Thanksgiving! I'm so excited!

I've been juicing and doing the Natalia Rose thing, thereby avoiding the baked goods. But on Thanksgiving and Christmas, I'm going to eat whatever I want, and one look inside this book, there are several things I want. Really WANT. I have a standard vegan pumpkin pie recipe I use every year, but this year, it's going to be the Pumpkin Cheesecake and the Voluptuous Pumpkin Pie. And maybe the Sweet Potato Hand Pies....so much to choose from, my son will be jumping for joy. There is a gorgeous Frangipane Tart that would be so lovely for Christmas (fill in your own December holiday) and New Years. Holy Cow, the photos! Do not look at this book on an empty stomach. And prepare to salivate.

Because I've been behaving myself, I have not tested a single recipe yet. But I can vouch for these authors, having all their books and finding their recipes straight forward and reliable. The layout is ideal, it's very much like Vegan Cupcakes Take over the World (and the subsequent Cookie book--both necessities for the vegan kitchen). I love their sense of design, their books are pleasing and fun to look at, they always make me laugh, and this latest effort is right on par, you just can't look at this and not be inspired. I can't wait to taste my first bite of pie. Get your copy HERE.

Eagle Creek Eco Friendly ORV Trunk Luggage

2011-11-07T06:40:00.000-08:00

Traveling this winter? Whether you are heading out for the holidays or for winter activities, Eagle Creek's ORV is a great pick. Winter travel is bulkier, you have sweaters, coats, boots and generally more stuff. This bag can hold it all, and some gear too.

The ORV is part of the Eagle Creek e-series luggage which uses recycled and post consumer materials. It comes in three sizes, up to a 30 inch tall bag, which is very large. That means it can hold long gear like snow shows, trekking poles, and the like. There is a compartment which is separate from the main compartment, so you can put dirty clothes or damp gear in there and still keep the rest of your stuff clean.

The mesh divider in the middle is collapsable if you need the space for large gear, and I like the organizational bonus of the divider. You can put heavier stuff on the bottom and lighter items in the top section. Eagle Creek's packing cubes would come in handy for smaller things like socks and underwear.

Two zippered pockets on the front make for quick access to things like tickets, maps, and anything you need to have handy. The wheels are big and great for more rough terrain like unpaved road and snowy walkways, and the pull handle is comfortable and pops up and back down easily. There are grab handles all over this bag, making it easy to load and unload in a variety of positions. Zipper pulls are big chunky loops, the zippers glide smoothly, and external zippers are lockable.

All four corners of the bag are reinforced to withstand the rigors of bag belts and baggage handlers and other precarious positions a bag made for adventure might wind up in. Eagle Creek offers a No Matter What Warranty which means they will fix or replace your bag any time anywhere.

This bag comes in different colors and sizes to meet your needs, I think it would be awesome to have a set, or color code for family members. If you need adventure luggage, be sure to check out the ORV Trunk collection. Find it HERE.

THE GREATER GOOD: Free Through Nov. 5

2011-11-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

The Greater Good, an award winning documentary film exploring vaccines is available online for free through November 5. In conjunction with Dr. Mercola's Vaccine Awareness Week from October 20 through November 5, this film will be available as well as numerous articles and videos participating in this crucial discussion taking place this week on Mercola.com.

Interviews with Barbara Loe Fisher, president of the National Vaccine Information Center, as well as over a dozen other experts on the subject will be featured. It's hoped this will open some eyes on the dangers of vaccination and encourage some rational dialogue on this multi-layered topic.

"THE GREATER GOOD is a character-driven documentary that explores the cultural intersections where parenting meets modern medicine and individual rights collide with politics. The film offers parents, doctors and policy makers a safe space to speak openly, actively listen and to learn from one another. Mixing verité footage, intimate interviews, 1950s-era government-produced movies and up-to-date TV news reporting, THE GREATER GOOD weaves together the stories of families whose lives have been forever changed by vaccination."

To view this MUST SEE film, go HERE.

Horny Toad Eco Friendly Fall Fashion

2011-11-03T08:39:00.000-07:00

I just discovered Horny Toad about a year ago, and they quickly became one of my top favorite clothing companies. I love the versatile styles, the earthy rich colors, and the comfort factor of every single thing I've tried. Their clothes are made with eco friendly fibers, and a lot of their stuff is made with organic cotton which I'm always on the prowl for. I love knowing that what is against my skin doesn't contain pesticides, and cotton is one of those heavily sprayed crops. It's not easy to find affordable fashionable organic clothing! If you are not familiar, you must check them out and treat yourself--but I can almost guarantee you will get hooked (which is not a bad thing).

Check out the fabulous IMPROV JACKET. The color is a lush mud-like brown. It uber soft and dresses up or down--a lot of Horny Toad is great in this way, which makes it awesome for travel. The buttons give it a feminine touch and the collar creates a flattering line. The seams are in all the right places, making for a flattering fit. This jacket is great for casual and also fine for the office. It's destined to be one of my favorite wardrobe pieces, I love it.

My other HT pick for this season is the OBLIQUE V DRESS. The idea behind this dress is that it has all the lines and look of a wrap dress, without the risk of coming open, or having too much cleavage exposure, making it great for work or more casual situations. I love it with boots, tights and even over jeans. For a dressier look, wear it with heels. Perfect for holiday parties and way beyond. Like most other Horny Toad pieces, there are several great color options, making you want more than one.

I have found some great deals on HT to fuel my addiction on sites like Rock Creek, REI, and 6pm. And fyi: Horny Toad has a really fun blog, check it out if you want to smile.

Wet Noses Organic Vegan Pumpkin Dog Treats

2011-10-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

How about some healthy Halloween treats for your dog? WET NOSES has some fabulous dog treats that are not only certified organic, but made with extra healthy ingredients like pumpkin which is known for being packed with antioxidants. These are wheat free, soy free, corn free and vegan--woohoo!! Not only that, but the packaging is wonderful and the actual treats are adorable, stamped with paw prints. I don't know about your dog, but ours knows when festivities are going on and she wants to participate too. Find these awesome pumpkin treats HERE.

DANDIES Gluten Free Vegan Marshmallows

2011-10-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

Hot chocolate season is here and some people like it with marshmallows. What's a vegetarian to do? Check out these DANDIES vegan marshmallows--vegan and yummy. Do you know what's in conventional marshmallows? Bones and hooves. Sound good? Traditional marshmallows contain gelatin and that's what gelatin is made of--organs, skin, and bones from animals. And they don't taste that great anyway.

But these vegan marshmallows are pretty good and my six year old loves them. I feel okay popping some in his hot chocolate and for him it's a big treat. They're small, minis, so not that great for roasting over a fire--maybe they'll come out with bigger ones some day. You can still make smores in the oven with these and you can make rice crisp treats too. Why would anyone want to eat the gross kind when you can have these? They would be wonderful to have on hand for Halloween, hot chocolate is extra great after trick or treating. And if you are lucky enough to live in a climate where it snows, there's nothing like a hot cup of cocoa after snow play. Stock up on a few packs for the winter pantry HERE.

Sircuit Skin: PUMPKIN Enzyme Peel Youth Accelerator

2011-10-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

How about a treat just for you this Halloween? One that has no calories and makes you look great? Sircuit Skin makes a fabulous pumpkin enzyme peel that will make you feel refreshed for the holidays. Seriously, how can you resist a pumpkin mask this time of year?

The Youth Accelerator uses pumpkin wine enzymes to exfoliate, clean, and nourish skin, leaving it glowing and fresh feeling. It smells wonderful and I love it for the season and beyond. Find it HERE.

Brad's Raw Kale Chips: VAMPIRE KILLER

2011-10-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

Have you tried Brad's Raw Leafy Kale Chips yet? Be prepared to get hooked. I've been eating them non stop for days and can't get enough. Out of the three flavors I've tried, Vampire Killer, Nasty Hot, and Naked, my preference is the Naked which is the perfect blend of savory crunch. I make kale chips all the time at home and they never taste like this. Not even close, I don't know how they do it, but they are super delicious and addictive. What a great snack for kids! They have that junk food like satisfaction factor without all those empty calories, and they don't leave you feeling yucky after eating a whole box (which we have done!). Because they are cooked below 115 degrees, they are also packed with precious vitamins and enzymes.

The Garlicy VAMPIRE KILLER Raw Leafy Kale chips are so perfect for Halloween week, don't you think? Great for parties and snacks. They're a healthy alternative to all that junk out there and put your average chip to shame in terms of flavor. Seriously, I'd rather have this than any chip I can think of. Ingredients are wholesome and pure and include cashews, red peppers, lemon, and sunflower seeds. There's just one thing---they're not organic! Come on Brad!!! Make them organic, please? I will be buying them by the case as soon as I see that organic seal. People who are willing to pay extra for healthy food have the expectation that it will be organic. Apart from this important oversight, they are perfect. Especially fabulous for vegans and vegetarians who don't have as many snacky options as omnivores, but I can't imagine anyone not liking these, even folks who aren't big on the green stuff. These would be of my favorite raw finds ever, if they were organic. Check them out HERE.

Ibex Carrie Sweater for Fall

2011-10-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

Need a new sweater for the season? Look at this yummy orange Ibex Carrie Hoody perfect for Autumn. Wool is wonderful for regulating temperature and keeping you toasty warm and it's a natural and sustainable fiber. Ibex has an accreditation program ensuring animal welfare, environmental and social sustainability. About 70% of Ibex clothing is made right here in the US and most of it is organic.

The Carrie Hoody sweater looks fabulous with jeans and boots and also over dresses. That deep orange is so appropriate for this time of year, though I love this color year round, it's especially pleasing with the matching trees. It has flattering lines, cozy pockets and a hood if you need it. I love wool, but there is only a small handful I can feel good about. Though Ibex is new to me, I'm feeling great about them so far. Find the Carrie Hoody HERE.

Juicer Love: OMEGA VERT

2011-10-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

Meet my new favorite juicer: the OMEGA VERT. Why do I love it so much? Because it does everything--including juice wheatgrass. I've used several different brands, and this is the easiest, most versatile juicer I've had yet. I'll try to contain my excitement long enough to tell you why.

First off, it's good looking. This is important because you must leave it out on the counter, if you don't, you won't use it. It comes in either white or a sliver-black combo, so it will match your appliances. And, it has a small footprint and is short enough to fit under your cabinets.

Next, it's quiet. I've been using a Breville Elite and though it is beautiful, it's LOUD. There have been many times I haven't juiced just because I couldn't bear to hear that noise. I can hold a telephone conversation while juicing with the Omega, something I could never do with the Breville.

And while we are comparing, the Breville is nice because it allows you to pretty much drop in whole fruits and vegetables due to the large feed chute. But with the Omega, I can still load whole carrots, celery stalks, and kale leaves. I do have to cut up apples, but I just do it while the juicer is processing the other stuff, it's no big deal at all and really doesn't take much time at all--believe me, if it did, I'd really be put off.

It's so pleasing to use this juicer, the whole process is enjoyable, almost meditative. The Breville, by contrast, is not pleasurable to use, it's almost violent the way it processes and as I said before, very very loud. Whatever speed I might gain is not worth it, and when you factor in clean up time, I'm not sure it's any faster in the end as the Breville takes longer to clean. I still like the Breville, but I bet it stays in the cabinet now.

You run a little water through the juicer when you're finished, then take it out and rinse. The screen is so much easier to clean than the Breville. It comes with a brush that looks like a big toothbrush and works great. Of all the juicers I've had in the past, this one is the easiest to clean. It looks like a lot of parts in the photo, but they all go together quickly and intuitively. I can make juice and have the juicer cleaned and set up ready for the next use in less than ten minutes.

This juicer can handle wheatgrass--this is Huge. I was thinking I'd eventually have to get a separate wheatgrass juicer because the Breville won't juice it, and that is a deterrent because I don't want all that stuff on my counter. The Omega juicer, in this sense is like two juicers in one. It juices wheatgrass beautifully, and oh how fabulous it is to be able to juice other stuff along with your wheatgrass. With the other wheatgrass juicers I had, they only did the wheatgrass, so if I wanted to add another juice to cut the taste I'd still have to pull out another juicer and clean two at the end. For those of you who haven't had wheatgrass, it can be a little intense by itself, so it's very nice to have the option to add other produce right there in the same batch. A little cucumber and apple mixed in with the wheatgrass and you have a refreshing drink. It also does a better job juicing greens and things like pea shoots (which are delicious). The Omega Vert's juice is more pulpy than the Breville, but that's fine with me, if you don't like pulp, you can strain the juice.

If you need to make your juice ahead of time, you can with the Omega Vert. This is another huge benefit, sometimes you are on the go and need to pre-make your juice and take it out the door with you. With the Breville, or any centrifugal juicer, it's recommended you drink your juice within thirty minutes because it starts oxidizing due to the force at which it's made. The masticating Omega allows the juice to remain intact longer before the enzymes and nutrients begin to break down, they say up to 72 hours, but I don't know that I would push it that far, especially with the ease at which this juices, I feel like I can have juice any time I want and I am not deterred by the effort or mess. Still, it's very nice to be able to make the juice in advance. This means you will drink more juice because this is a major convenience.

Not all masticating juicers are created equal. For instance, many years ago, I had a Champion juicer. and though it did the job, it had an enormous footprint taking up way too much counter space and it was a devil to clean. No comparison to the Omega Vert.

I've used this awesome juicer every single day since I got it a month ago I'm in love. My six year old also loves the Omega Vert and gets a big thrill in feeding fruits and veggies into the chute. This gets him excited about drinking healthy green juices--how cool is that? It's become a ritual. I can't recommend this juicer highly enough. If you are thinking about getting a new juicer, or a wonderful holiday gift for someone else--get it. Don't even think twice. It's a juicer you will use--it will be right there on your counter looking great and calling your name. It will not give you a headache or wake up your sleeping household members, and it will behave itself when it's time to clean it. And if you need more incentive, here it is: it has a 10 year warranty. Find it HERE.

Got the Facts on Milk?

2011-10-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

Still think milk is a healthy drink? Watch GOT THE FACTS ON MILK? and learn why it's a problem with far reaching tendrils With our healthcare system in crisis why are we still consuming something which is implicated in so many diseases? Have we all been brainwashed to think milk is needed for healthy bones? Yes! But it's just the opposite. How has this happened? How are we still operating under outdated bad information?

Got the Facts on Milk explores some of the reasons we got into this way of thinking and how the dairy industry permeates our culture. Heavy hitters like Dr. Campbell of the China Study, Dr. Furhman, and Dr. Barnard speak out on why dairy is Not healthy and contributes to cancer, diabetes, obesity, and a myriad of other serious health issues.

This is very important for people who still think it's a good idea for children to have milk with their lunches. In some states, it's still required. Schools should be banning milk, not requiring it! At any rate, this is a very watchable, award winning documentary that should be in every school and library. Find more HERE.

Gourmet on the Go with GSI's Kitchen 23

2011-10-11T07:39:00.000-07:00

GSI's Kitchen 23 was designed with camping in mind, but I think it's great for travel too. With pretty much everything you need to create healthy gourmet dishes, this 23 piece portable kit is fabulous for car camping and for car travel. It comes in a sleek carry case with a semi-hard shell to keep your supplies organized and protected. You can remove certain items and add your own preferences, and there's room inside for more stuff if you'd like to include extras. I added some Dr. Bronners biodegradable soap and some utensils and additional spices and there is still room for more.

A hearty well prepared meal is such a treat on camping trips. Food tastes so much better outdoors and after a day of adventure, it's even more pleasurable. Figuring out all the stuff you need for food prep can be tedious, as well as trying to keep it all organized. The Kitchen 23 does it for you. You got your silverware, your salt and pepper shaker, condiment containers, grater, whisk (for those blueberry pancakes), cutting board, and more.

I love it for travel because when you are on the road, it can be hard to find healthy food. With this and a knowledge of where the organic foods stores are, and maybe a few other things like a hot plate, you can create healthy meals right in your hotel room. Hint: The holidays are coming and his would make a fabulous gift for the outdoorsy gourmet type. Find it on the GSI Outdoors Website.

Bill Maher PSA

2011-10-05T18:35:00.000-07:00

Environmentalist, animal activist and general bad ass, I mean, political pundit Bill Maher makes a PSA against bullying. The IT GETS BETTER campaign is directed toward gay people, but I think it applies to all of us. If we can't get it together amongst ourselves, how are we going to solve our global issues? It is unacceptable for any child to have to endure this for any reason. The next time you hear someone say it's a normal part of growing up to endure bullying, ask them what would happen if bullying and discrimination happened in the workplace. Adults don't put up with this, why should our children have to?

Blundstone Boots for Fall

2011-10-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

Now I know what all the fuss is about. For years I've been hearing about how wonderful Blundstone boots are, both from men and women. I finally got to wear a pair, and I have to say, I get it. What I like is that they play two roles--a dressy boot and a work boot. They're both. And they are comfortable, something I wasn't sure about since the sole is comparably thinner than what I'm used to. I like a lot of shock absorption and tend to shy away from those thinner soles. But these feel like boots with thick soles. This is due to Blundstone's patented Shock Protection System, and I don't know how they did it, but it works. There's good tread for stability as well.

They look fabulous with a skirts, making for a nice Autumn look. A pair of cute leggings underneath paired with some warm sooks and you have something that will take you right into winter. Jeans, of course look smashing with these and they also really dress up yoga pants.

GIVEAWAY: Saris Bike Rack

2011-09-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

The Bike Rack:
The Saris Solo is a quick and easy way to transport a single bike. Need to drop off your bike at the bike shop? Brink your child's bike to a friend's house for a playdate? This is a minimalist way to handle the transportation of single bikes and when you're done, just pop it into the trunk or closet.
Features:

Low cost, easy installation, convenient size
Ratcheting hold-down straps secure bike
Built with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials.
Carries one bike up to 35 lbs.

The Giveaway:
Head on over to Greenwala and leave a comment for a chance to win.

Advanced Elements Solar Shower

2011-09-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

Ever wish you could take a shower on a camping trip? Well you can, and it's super easy. Check out these Solar Showers from Advanced Elements. They come in many sizes and also in a PVC free version. It's a five gallon bag, so you'd probably need a tree. If you are going to hang this in a privacy shelter, I wouldn't go past the three gallon, they're heavy! Even with the 2.5 gallon bag, it's heavy too and holds more water than it appears to hold, you get a couple of good showers out of that.

These are well made solar showers. The beefy handle at the top makes them easy to maneuver and you just pull down on the shower head to get it to work, simple as can be. It has a large reservoir valve making it easy to fill--this is important, you might be at an awkward spigot and you don't want to be fumbling around spilling water all over yourself. Some of them come with little mesh pockets and mirrors depending on the size you get.

All you do is place the shower in the sun, preferably on a warm rock to help absorb the heat, there are small solar panels on the bags to speed up the process. You can pour hot water from your camp stove into the shower on days the sun didn't warm it up, or you didn't have time to leave it out long enough. I ended up with a cold shower because I put the shower out too late in the day for it to work. I could have put some hot water in there, but somehow the spectacular view mitigated any cold I felt. The kids thought it was very cool and got excited over the tiny shower head, they couldn't believe they were showering outside. We used the Grand Trunk Dunny Shelter with this and it was perfect.

I think these showers are awesome for camping, and also for emergency preparedness. If your plumbing doesn't work, which can happen sometimes during a good hurricane or broken water lines, it's nice to know you can still bathe. I won't go (car) camping again without one. Find them HERE.

Kelty Sleep Eazy Queen Mattress

2011-09-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

For years I have avoided inflatable mattresses because of the PVC. During the holidays last year, I purchased one for company and when I took it out of the box I almost fell over. It was off-gassing so much I put it back in the box, took it back to the store, and that was the end of that.

When I heard of Kelty's new eco friendly Sleep Eazy Queen air mattress, I got very excited because it is PVC free and there is no smell. You can sleep headache free on this one. The chemicals off-gassed from PVC can ignite asthma attacks, migraines, nausea and all sorts of maladies, I'm so glad to see this option.

Beyond that, the design is well thought out. It's lightweight and comes in a small canvas tote bag with extra grab handles. It includes a small rechargeable pump that works like a charm. No batteries necessary--just plug it in at home or in your lighter outlet in the car and voila! Instant bed. You can have a queen size bed up in just a couple of minutes.

This turns your tent into an outdoor hotel room. It would be great to throw in the trunk when visiting friends or pull out of your closet for your own company. Find it HERE.

Detours Boogie Bag: Organization for Cycling Adventures and Beyond

2011-09-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

Traveling to go for a ride? Detours makes the perfect bag for your cycling gear, the Boogie Bag. Organization makes your outings more enjoyable. When everything is easy to get to, you spend your time playing, not scrambing around trying to find your stuff.

This bag holds a ton. It will keep your helmets, bike tools, jackets, shoes, locks, extra clothes, meals, drinks--there's even a separate insulated bag that comes with it to keep your drinks or food cold. They thought of every single thing with this bag, the design is flawless.

This bag is made for cycling, but is perfect for camping as well. And I mean perfect. That rubber bottom makes it extra rugged in the elements, there are a ton of pockets for little lanterns, camp kitchen supplies, etc.

The Boogie is so sturdy you might be tempted to overload it--the bag can take it, but you still have to carry it, so watch out for weight. It's sitting on my floor at the moment with heavy camp kitchen supplies and the Boogie doesn't skip a beat. In addition to the padded adjustable shoulder strap and side straps, there are grab handles on either end, customizing it to the way you like to carry your bag and making it as comfortable and convenient as possible. I love the see-through top compartment for easy access to the stuff you need to get to fast, like maps, flashlights, first aid kit. The abundance of outer and inner pockets and enlarged zipper pulls are fantastic.

I don't climb, but suspect it would be great for that too. For kids that are in some sort of sport, this would be wonderful for parents to keep it all together. At 20 x 15 x 11 inches, it will fit in an overhead bin on planes, so it would work well for air travel too.

Aesthetically, the Boogie is great looking. The burgundy is a rich, deep garnet that is pleasing to the eye and the detailed top stitching almost fools you into thinking it's all looks, but then the bag gets you with its brains. Incredibly well thought out, wonderful bag, I want one in every color to color code my gear.

If you are involved in any activity that requires gear, you need this bag. One of my favorites ever. Find it HERE.

Black Diamond Mini Lanterns

2011-09-15T17:49:00.000-07:00

Need a lantern for inside the tent? Black Diamond has two brilliant small lantern options, the Apollo Lantern and the Orbit Lantern. Both utilize energy efficient long lasting LEDs. Both lanterns are perfect for backpacking, using inside your tent, hammock camping, picnic tables, camp stove, and anywhere you want light. It's not that blinding LED light you might be familiar with, but a diffused, more pleasing light due to the frosted globe. At the same time they are both bright enough to be used for task lighting. They don't take the place of a larger lantern for lighting up the whole camp, but they do what they were designed to do wonderfully.

The foldaway legs allow you to adjust the height and the loops are great for hanging in the tent or a tree branch. The loops are split so you don't need a carabiner to hang them, but you could also turn it upside down and hang it by the legs with a carabiner. I love that you can dim the lantern, adjusting the light output and saving battery power for when you need it most. It's about the size of a soda can, and a little lighter. The legs are super handy, allowing you to place the lantern on uneven surfaces and to help disperse light the way you need it.

Black Diamond offers a rechargeable battery system for both lanterns which comes with international adapters. They can even be rigged for use with solar power, I've read about people taking these on research trips to remote locations and using them daily for months on end this way.

Not long ago, BD sponsored a project to use solar power to recharge lanterns in a small village in Nepal. To reduce the cost and risk of kerosene lighting, Apollo lanterns were given out to locals who then able to power them with solar panels. This was life changing for the people in this village who used their savings to improve their water source.

You can utilize solar power with your own lantern by charging reusable batteries with a portable solar charger. Burn life is up to 60 hours, depending on whether you have the lantern set on low or high.

For backpacking, if you are super mindful of weight, the Apollo's little brother, the Orbit is ideal. It's about half the size of the Apollo and has a 1 watt output as opposed to the Apollos 3 watts. It doesn't have legs like the Apollo, so it's not as stable, but it does have the split loops for hanging. It would work great for a one or two person tent, or for hammock camping. The globe, like the Apollo's globe, slides over the on/off button so it won't switch on accidentally in your pack and eat up all your battery life. They come in different colors, so you could give one to each child if you are camping with kids, it's great for reading in the tent. My son went bananas for these small lanterns, confiscating the Orbit immediately.

Both lanterns would be great for travel or to keep in your emergency kit for power outages and emergencies. Black Diamond has excellent environmental and fair labor programs, they also reach out in support of many environmental organizations--it's a company you can feel good about purchasing your gear from. Find both lanterns HERE on their website.

Keen Silverton Boots for Fall

2011-09-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

Need some fabulous boots for Fall? KEEN's new Silverton Boot is versatile and will take you right into winter. The beefy Trailhead sole is fortified with KEEN WARM technology which uses charcoal bamboo to insulate and create antimicrobial protection. They're waterproof and will get you through a variety of weather, including the earlier, warmer part of Autumn without feeling too hot.

They're tall, but not too tall. On me, they fall a couple of inches below the knee, providing extra warmth and looking great with skirts and dresses. You can walk all day in these, they would be great for travel for that reason. I'm thinking Germany in the late Fall, early Winter, where everyone keeps warm but looks oh so fashionable and you walk everywhere. They're high performance with a blend of high fashion. Wear them with skinny jeans by day, and a cute black dress at night.

Do size up with these. Normally I take an 8.5 in shoes, 9's in Keens and with this boot, I needed a 9.5. They come in black and a yummy java brown. Why do I love KEEN so much? Because I can't seem to wear out their shoes! They last years and years. Even my six year old who is a rough and tumble kid that's very active and hard on his shoes can't seem to wear them out before he grows out of them. That's great value and less waste. KEEN is also heavily involved in environmental initiatives. Great company, great value and great style! Find them HERE.

Planetary Designs Coffee Press: Ideal for Camping

2011-09-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

I use a glass French press at home when I make coffee--not the best thing for camping. So what do you do if you're not fond of that somewhat burnt flavor of cowboy coffee? You get one of these fabulous stainless coffee presses from Planetary Designs, that's what. This little coffee press is perfect for camping. It's sturdy and well constructed with a beefy handle and well stabilized body that is wider at the bottom and won't spill at the picnic table.

Here's what is so awesome about this--the fact that it's only 20 ounces, yet still shaped in the form of a coffee pot really makes it stand out amongst other stainless presses. You can find those anywhere, in fact the same company makes a huge variety of them.

But, if you drink coffee like I do--with soy cream and raw sugar, those are not practical because the grinds stay in the bottom, how do you add your condiments? It can get complicated with having to transfer liquids and it's just a hassle. With this, you pour it right into your cup and proceed the same way you do at home. Also, the size is ideal for one or two people. There is a bigger version of this available, but the 20 oz is just perfect and by the time you drink your coffee everything is still warm, if you need more, you can easily brew another pot.

This press would be wonderful at work, on a trip, anywhere you want to enjoy coffee or loose tea. By making your own coffee, you can insure that it's organic and fair trade. And to store it, Planetary Designs has a patented air tight container called the AirScape that will keep your coffee fresh. Like the French press, the canister is made from high quality 18.8 grade stainless steel. You put your coffee or--get this--brown sugar (or whatever you want to keep fresh) and put the compression lid in which seals out any air, then seal with the clear lid.

The two make a great pair for a camping trip or to keep at the office for that three o'clock fix. The holidays will be here before we know it and finally there is something to store that notorious brown sugar in before it turns into a rock. They come in different sizes and colors so that you can color code your stuff. You can check out Planetary Designs complete line HERE.

Grand Trunk Dunny Privacy Shelter

2011-09-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself on the beach wishing you had a place to change your clothes? Or out on a camping trip wishing for your own private bathroom? Well here is the solution: the Grand Trunk Dunny Quick Set Privacy Shelter. I haven't seen a privacy shelter out there that compares to this. It's HUGE and very well made. Two people could take a shower in there, no problem, they could almost dance the Tango.

This is perfect for camping trips to enable you to avoid public restrooms completely. You can hang your solar shower inside and include a portable toilet as well. You could also use it on the beach for changing clothes--I think it would be fabulous for a beach party or an all day outing with friends and family. When you're ready to go, just pop it back in the bag. It would be great at home for a pool party to keep a bunch of wet guests from traipsing in and out of your house and also provide convenience for them.

Inside the shelter are plenty of pockets for soap, shampoo, toilet paper, etc. There's a place to hang your solar shower and it's sturdy, it's not going to come crashing down on you. The floor is removable if you'd rather have the ground under you, it's your option. Visually, it's perfect. Low profile, good looking charcoal gray is sharp and kind of blends in with the environment. It's also quite light weight, so it's not a burden to toss it in the car along with the rest of your gear.

It's so worth the extra effort to set it up, I thoroughly enjoyed a peaceful solar shower with a gorgeous lake front view through the window of the shelter. The kids used the shelter for changing clothes and bathing suits before and after playing in the lake. There are plenty of great places to hang your towels and the clean dry clothes.

Definitely stake it down as it's very tall and the wind could play havoc with it if it's not secured properly. Included are plenty of stakes and the cords to guy it out, and set up and take down is so ultra fast, you won't mind taking the extra two minutes. It goes right back into it's carry bag easily, which for me is super important as I don't want to be struggling at the end of an adventure. Even though it's super tall, I can set it up and take it down by myself in just a couple of minutes, it couldn't be easier. Highly recommended! Find it HERE.

Hurricane Preparedness with Sanyo Enloop

2011-09-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of preparedness, having lived in hurricane territory for years in the past and being very grateful for my supplies when the storms hit. Hurricane Irene is a great reminder to stock up on supplies for disaster preparedness, no matter where you live.

Batteries are a must have and Sanyo has a wonderful solution to traditional batteries, their eneloop rechargeable batteries. I've always loved the idea of rechargeable batteries, but could never get them to really work. These work. They have a low discharge rate, making them last much longer than the ones you might have tried in the past. And they come pre-charged, so they are great for your disaster kit. They're also great for travel and daily use for all the stuff you have at home requiring batteries. When the energy runs out, you don't throw them away, you just recharge them, saving you money and helping out the environment.

In addition to the batteries, Sanyo's enloop Mobile Booster will charge your devices when they run out of juice, providing up to 240 minutes of power. It's very straight forward, you just plug it in and pre-charge it using an outlet at home or the USB port of your computer, then slip it into your bag for later. When your iPad (or a host of other compatible electronics devices goes dead, just plug in the Mobile Booster and you're up and running again. This means when you have a power outage, you've got back up for watching movies and whatnot, which can be invaluable when you have children and you can fire up your cell phone in an emergency. And how great to have it when you're on the plane or even camping in the woods. Find both must have options HERE.

Marmot Limestone 6 Tent: Best Tent Ever

2011-08-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

Marmot's Limestone 6 is an ideal three season tent that's perfect for families and pure luxury for couples and singles. First off, this tent is gorgeous. The designers made something that not only functions like a dream, but looks like one too. Though it comes in a dark green if you prefer to blend in with your surroundings, I think orange is the ideal color for a tent. It glows from within at night and looks amazing at twilight against a natural backdrop. The orange also serves to give you a cozy energized feeling, perfect for more overcast or rainy weather.

The Limestone is a piece of cake to set up and takes well under ten minutes. Color coded webbing and poles help you assemble the tent quickly and efficiently.   The whole thing is made in such a way that is incredibly manageable despite its size, which is huge. I'm 5'5 and though I can stand up in this tent, I can almost set it up by myself, I need some help with the fly and erecting the poles. If you're car camping in warm weather, why not have a large tent you can stand up and maneuver well in in?

For rainy and stormy weather, the full coverage fly and taped seams make the tent virtually bombproof. A storm during the night isn't going to send everyone fleeing for the car.  Color coded tabs to help you see where the fly clips to the ground sheet help to make set up even easier. The guy attachments are beefy and substantial, but unless you are going to be in some strong winds, I wouldn't bother to guy it out. Nevertheless, it's nice to know they're there when you need them.

There are multiple fly vents for ventilation on hot nights and moisture dissipation. I love that they used reflective material for the guy points and logo to help you spot the tent easily at night. The zipper pulls are not metal and won't jingle around in the wind which can be annoying while you're trying to sleep and the non-snag zippers are easy to operate and good for kids.

Extra large vestibules on either end are great for stowing gear. The vestibules have little windows so you can peek out and see what's going on outside, and there's a door mat to help keep it clean inside. You could fit a smaller camp chair in the vestibules.

This is a major luxury tent for two, but the fact that it has two separate doors makes it really nice for more people. That way you aren't climbing over each other to get in and out.

The floor is heavy duty and can withstand camp furniture like cots and chairs. A Marmot rep told me he wouldn't bother with a footprint with this particular tent because the floor is so ultra durable, however I got one anyway because a) the Limestone is magnificent and I want to take the best possible care of it, b) the footprint allows for easier setup when picking out a spot, you don't have to drag the tent around, you just maneuver the footprint until you find the ideal place, and c) if you are camping in rainy weather, when you go to take down the tent, the bottom will be clean and it will be easy to fold up the footprint and hose that off when you get home.

Even if you are new to camping, a good tent can really make the experience, it's worth the investment to get something of quality, and once you have it you are good to go on many adventures. The Limestone will last through years and years of camping trips. It's good looks and attention to every last detail really make it stand out amongst other tents.   This is also a tent that, even if it rains the whole time (hello Pacific Northwesterners), you'll still have fun. Can't recommend it highly enough, find it HERE.

Back to School with Organic Snack Kits by Semilla

2011-08-30T04:58:00.000-07:00

Need a fabulous lunch kit for school? This Robot Snack Kit by Semilla is organic, reusable, and ridiculously cute. You get a lot of bang for your buck with this--a lunch bag, sandwich wrap, snack bag, napkin, and stainless container.

Great design is so important with stuff like this. The organic wholesome world of real food is in direct competition with flashy corporate frankenfood on lunch tables across the country. If you can make wholesome look cool and interesting, you're several steps ahead. Not just that, but school lunches create a ton of waste. This is a leave-no-trace lunch. Nothing to throw away.

These are wonderful for trips to the park, family outings, any time you want healthy snacks handy (and when wouldn't you?). This way, you can visit the bulk section and stock up and not only save money, but help the environment. All those little plastic snack bags add up, this is a great solution.

You can wash them in the machine, they come in several wonderful designs so you can have a few in rotation or get one for each kid. That's not to say I wouldn't use this myself, I think this is perfect for taking your own healthy food to work or college, why should kids get all the cool stuff? Find them HERE.

Broken Tail and Tiger Conservation

2011-08-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

PBS has been running Broken Tail: A Tiger's Last Journey, a heart breaking documentary which emphasizes tiger conservation. Who isn't mesmerized by Tigers? Two minutes in, you are hooked by the gorgeous cinematography and the story of an affectionate tiger family and one charismatic young tiger in particular, called Broken Tail.

Wildlife filmmaker Colin Stafford-Johnson spent almost two years in Ranthambore National Park, a tiger reserve in India, following the life of these tigers until the tragic end when Broken Tail disappeared. He then retraces the steps made by Broken Tail to where he met his end on a train track over a hundred miles away. This fascinating journey is visually compelling and emotionally charged, you might be in tears by the end. But most of all, you will be much more aware of the desperate need for conservation.

Stafford-Johnson's passion for the cause shines, "Tigers are absolutely on the edge," he says, "they have reached critical numbers...we know this and to allow it to happen on our watch, how could you possibly explain that to people in the future? How could you possibly sit down in a classroom full of kids in fifty years time and explain to them, 'Oh yes, we knew that tigers were on the edge, but oh, we just let them go,' how could you explain that to anyone? You just couldn't."

Tiger populations have decreased by 95% over the last hundred years. India's tiger count has gone from 3,600 to 1,400 in the last eight years alone. Tiger reserves need to be widened and connected, they need more space.

This would be an excellent film for classrooms to help inspire wildlife conservation. You can check your local PBS listings, view this documentary online, or purchase the DVD, but do watch, it's a beautiful film.

vapur bottles

2011-08-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

At first I wasn't sure about Vapur Bottles, because normally I use stainless or glass. But I have been using them like crazy this Summer and here's why: you can freeze them. Being able to freeze them means you keep them ready to go in the freezer, grab on on your way out, and hot Summer weather does not interfere with having a cold beverage in hand.

Not only that, but they are fabulous for packing in a lunch to keep the surrounding food cold and for packing in the cooler for picnics and camping. when it thaws, you still have a cold beverage to drink unlike those frozen blue things you buy to keep your cooler cold. I've even used them to soothe headaches (they fit just right at the base of your neck).

They are great for travel, as you just roll up the bottle and tuck it away to reuse later when you're finished. They come with a removable carabiner to attach to your backpack or to hold the bottle compact after it's rolled up. They take up very little space and their weight is negligible. They're BPA free and perfect for those times when a bulkier bottle won't work. They come in several colors and are available HERE.

Leave No Trace with Cleanwaste

2011-08-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

A lot of our state and national parks are now requiring people to bring in their own bathroom systems so that they will leave no trace. Cleanwaste offers a great solution for this in a super easy brief case style portable environmental toilet called the Go Anywhere. This is great for camping trips, even if you are staying somewhere where there are public restrooms, sometimes you just don't want to utilize them, if you know what I mean.

It's very easy to use, you just open the case, unfold the legs, insert a Wag Bag (basically a biodegradable plastic bag with a powder that treats waste), and you're done. The eco friendly powder used in the bag does not have a fragrance which for people like me is very important, and it does a great job of containing odor and whatnot, it's very discreet.

I can't tell you how many times I've heard people say they don't go camping because of the bathroom issue. This is a great solution. If you have a big enough tent, you can just do your business right there, or you can set up a secondary shelter dedicated to a toilet and maybe even add a solar shower. Cleanwaste makes these as well and you can find the entire system on their site.

Cleanwaste also makes Pee-Wee bags which are even easier and faster to use. This is great for inside the tent in the middle of the night when you don't want to venture out to the woods or a public facility. Both the Wag Bags and Pee Wee bags come with toilet paper and a wipe.

These Cleanwaste systems are ideal for Leave No Trace practices. Beyond camping, they are great for emergency situations when you might not have access to water or facilities. I've personally experienced a hurricane which created those conditions and though we improvised fine at the time, this would have been nice to have. Find them HERE.

Multifunctional Coleman 4 in 1 Packaway Table

2011-08-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

Stuff that serves multiple functions are both space saving and carbon footprint reducing. That's a necessary win-win in my book. Coleman's 4 in 1 Table is perfect for camping and home use--and it has four different configurations, taking the place of several pieces of furniture. On top of that, it folds up for easy storage and takes very up little space. This is perfect for the minimalist who needs their stuff to do several jobs while remaining low profile.

While camping, it's great for food prep, night stands, picnic table, or even coffee tables around the camp fire which is nice for little kids who can't always hold stuff on their laps. You can use it to set up a buffet indoors or out, you can use it as a make shift office, an extra table during the holidays, a craft table for kids, in the bedroom, the bathroom, anywhere you can think of. Because you can adjust the leg height, you have so many options. You can use it as one square table, two separate tables, or one long table, all of set to the height you need.

I wish the table tops were also aluminum like the rest of the table. That would keep them light weight and would probably make them last longer. As it is, the tops are mdf, which some feel is an eco friendly material because it's made from wood that might otherwise go to waste. I'm not a big fan of mdf due to the glues that are often used to hold it together. I'm not sure what was used here, but if the table is outside, it's of less concern to me since it will be out in the open for any off-gassing, also there is absolutely no smell emitting from this table and I am a major stickler for this.

They did put a funky neo-retro looking design on the top of the table, which is fun and looks good, really modern and hip a la CB2. This was so smart, you don't have to cover them up to hide an ugly design or color.

The whole thing is very smart. It's easy to set up and tear down--literally seconds--and it's easy to clean. I highly recommend this versatile table. Find it HERE.

Klean Kanteen Insulated Wide Mouth Bottles

2011-08-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Klean Kanteen just keeps pumping out one good idea after another. I can't imagine why anyone would opt for paper or plastic cups when these are available. The latest? Cool new insulated wide mouth bottles in wonderful colors that will keep your coffee hot and your iced tea cold.

I love the spill proof lid design which lets me slip a finger through the loop while I have my hands full. It's also stainless steel on the inside which keeps your beverage from ever touching any plastic. And when you get to your destination, there is another optional cafe lid which converts your bottle to a to-go style mug with a sip lid. These would be fabulous for travel, camping, hiking, and just heading off to work or school with a comforting hot drink.

The smaller sizes would work for a food container, keeping a soup warm for instance. The stainless won't absorb flavors or odors so you can easily change it up without tasting what was in there before. The wide mouth makes cleaning easy and did I mention how good looking these things are? I've been a fan of Klean Kanteen since they came out and I can't wait to see what they come up with next. Find them HERE.

Bell Fraction Critters Hemet for Your Radster

2011-08-19T07:36:00.000-07:00

Bell is getting colorful and creative with their kids' helmets and I'm loving it. Check out their new Critters Helmet in bright orange. The graphics are edgy, a little post punk, and they combine traditional childhood imagery with sass and the added safety of bright colors. This helmet is easy to spot, which to me is invaluable, I can see my son from pretty far away, and drivers can see him too.

When kids like their helmets, they'll wear them. This helmet can be used for cycling and skating, is made from impact resistant ABS shell with a foam liner. My son has been rough on this and it holds up great, I highly recommend it. Find it HERE.

Radius Garden Tools for Your Organic Garden

2011-08-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Radius Garden Tools combine beautiful design with comfortable ergonomic function. I can't believe the difference they made in my gardening. Weeding is now almost enjoyable! First of all, they're gorgeous. At the same time, they're heavy duty. The weeding tool gets weeds out almost effortlessly, rendering my old tool obsolete.

"Garden more, hurt less," is the message from Radius and they are not kidding. You don't have to work as hard with these. I don't know how they figured it out, but it works. The hand tools take the pressure off my wrists and I can get better leverage. The soft cushy handles combined with the shape really make it possible for me to work in the yard longer and more effectively (you can watch a demo video HERE explaining why the handle is truly ergonomic and how it works). The curve also makes them convenient to prop on the fence and to hang on to when you have an armful of stuff.

I love this Transplanter Shovel which makes the job easier. I have very rocky, almost impossible soil in places and just planted a cherry tree where I thought I'd never be able to dig a hole by myself. It wasn't easy, but between this and the weeding tool, I got the job done. It's hefty and well balanced. All the tools I tried had some weight to them, in a good way.

Just seeing them around the yard makes me smile. The bright cheery green and the cool shapes are functional art. It's true I'm a design geek, but I'm sure I am not alone in appreciating their great looks combined with burly strength. The tools come in a variety of sizes, blades, and colors. Find these awesome garden tools HERE.

Thule Modernized RACEWAY Bike Rack

2011-08-16T03:42:00.000-07:00

Thule's new trunk mount bike rack, the RACEWAY, is a huge departure from traditional trunk racks. This is a much more sophisticated version of the older mounts with features previously found only in hitch mounts. Using only four retractable cables (other trunk mounted racks typically use six straps), the rack is very straightforward and its aerodynamic shape gives it a sleek modern look.

Installing the rack is very easy, it comes out of the box ready to use. The Thule exclusive FitDial allows you to customize the rack to your car with predetermined settings. Just find the cooresponding number appropriate for your car, and strap it on, ratcheting the cables tight with the beefy knob on the side.

There are no loose straps to blow around, everything is nice and streamlined. There is a locking cable to keep the bikes secure and there's also a secondary lock to keep the rack from being taken off the vehicle. Thule's No Sway Cage keeps bikes from rubbing up against each other or from touching the car. The arms fold down when not in use and the whole rack folds flat when you need to store it.

The Raceway is a versatile rack designed to fit a wide variety of cars from hatchbacks, to sedans and minivans. The narrow arms of the carrier will fit most frames including odd and child size frames. Remember to get an adapter if you are transporting a women's bike that doesn't have that cross bar since it will need that for leverage. I would not hesitate to use this rack on a very expensive car as the generous rubber padding on either end provide stability as well as protecting the surface from scratches. The Raceway does not rattle around, it's a very sturdy premium rack. It comes in two and three bike versions, and you can find it HERE.

Meal Ideas for Camping

2011-08-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Need some ideas for what to take camping for meal time? Here are some kid friendly ideas ranging from easy to a little more complicated, all are relatively healthy and vegan). Always buy organic and local when possible.

Veggie dogs and veggie burgers--easy, easy, easy!

Oatmeal--perfect for breakfast when it's chilly, just add boiling water and you're done.

Pancakes (bring a mix and cast iron griddle, you can get vegan pancake mix right at the co-op in the bulk section)

Bars for kids--some handy organic bars are great for when you've ventured away from camp and you hear those words, "mama, I'm hungry," even though you ate just an hour ago.

Fruit--bananas are nature's power bars and they come in their own wrappers. I also love watermelon during the summer, it's refreshing and hydrating and how could you go camping without it?

Chia makes a great little raw porridge and is hydrating and energizing and easy to pack. Ideal for backpackers, but super nutritious and wonderful for all.

Organic Corn Chips and Salsa are always nice for those moments when you need something to eat Right Now. Throw in some avocado and you have a mini meal. Add hot black beans and you have a hearty meal that will infuse the camp with that home-cooking fragrance.

Hummus and Tabouleh with Pita Chips. Tabouleh is particularly refreshing in the Summer and when made with quinoa is a nutrition packed dish. I load mine with tons of parsley, mint and cucumber.

Smores. That's the classic camp dessert and I never really liked them. That is until I tried them as an adult, with quality organic dark chocolate and graham crackers (I love the Health Valley organic Amaranth graham crackers) and vegan marshmallows. Still not my favorite thing in the world, but the kids love them and there's something sweet about tradition.

Image Credit: Kirti Poddar

Leatherman JUICE Multitool

2011-08-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

A good multi-tool is a must have on outdoor adventures. Camping and traveling bring out the resourcefulness in us and to have something with you that facilitates this is important. I also love that one small tool can replace a whole drawer full of stuff. If you'd like to scale down or reduce your carbon footprint utilitarian-wise, here you go.

Leatherman is known for their reliable multi tools, but I only recently learned that they have a line that appeals to my design sense--the Juice Leathermans. Bright colors make them easy to find in your bag or in the dark, and they are as attractive as they are useful. Check out this CS4, sort of the middle ground in the Juice series.

This is about the size of a Swiss army knife, but better looking and more versatile. The pliers set it apart from pocket knives and they are easy to use and double as wire cutters. It comes with screwdrivers--both phillips and flat head, scissors, cork screw, awl, can opener, saw, and knife.

The photo doesn't do it justice, the glacier blue is almost metallic and stands out amongst gear. It fits nicely in your hand and the tools are accessible and easy to get back in. It's 5.5 ounces, and around 3 inches in length, so it's a breeze to take along. Leatherman is based in Portland, OR, the tools are US made and the company is involved in community outreach. Find it HERE.

HANGFIRE HOODIE Perfect for Chillin by the Campfire

2011-08-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

First Ascent's Hangfire Hoodie is designed for climbers, with mobility in mind. It's light weight and I think it makes a great Summer hoodie for biking, hiking, evening walks, and cozying up to a campfire. The cut is figure flattering, the zippers are placed in such a way that it creates slimming lines and there are seams which do the same. The sleeves are cut close to your wrists (but not too close) so they wouldn't catch fire while working around a camp building fires or cooking with outdoor stoves.

They call it "textured fleece," but it is not that furry-fleece that we are used to. This is not bulky at all, it's breathable while exerting energy, and it also repels light rain. It would be great as an under-layer in colder temps taking you through fall and into winter. Great all around hoodie, find it HERE.

Camp Kitchen Gear

2011-08-03T15:11:00.000-07:00

Need supplies for your camp kitchen? I just discovered Sea To Summit a few months ago and I'm so impressed with their innovative gear. These X-SETS are a great way to save space and stay organized in the camp kitchen and can be used over and over. The bright colors are fun and enable you to color code, and the collapsible silicone rims on the X-Bowl, Mug, and Plate maximize your space. The bottom of the plate and bowl also function as a cutting board which is a big bonus for backpackers. These would also be great for traveling, slip a bowl into your bag for morning oatmeal or cutting up and serving fruit in your hotel room.

At home I don't use teflon, so why would I use it camping? GSI OUTDOORS makes a great stainless steel option for those of us who prefer to avoid the non-stick. The GLACIER STAINLESS COOKSET is a set you'd buy once and pass down to your kids and grandchildren. It's light weight but made of sturdy 18/8 grade stainless steel. The gripper that comes with it works great and I like the substantial feel of these, I don't feel like they're going to topple over with hot food. They come nested in a handy mesh bag and include two cutting boards.

GSI offers all sorts of supplies for the camp kitchen, whether you are car camping or "gourmet backpacking," as they say. I love that they have an entire line devoted to the concept of gourmet backpacking.

Good food is a great way to treat yourself when backpacking, the food (ie--weight) gets consumed and you don't have to carry it back. And after hard play, a nice culinary reward is always appreciated. To the left is their Crossover Kitchen Kit that contains utensils for more complicated cooking. Find more HERE.

Eco Friendly REVO Thrive Sunglasses

2011-08-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gone looking for your sunglasses only to find that you are wearing them? Well that's what you'll do with these eco friendly REVO Thrive shades. Why? Because they are so comfortable and light weight you forget you're wearing them. I am not kidding.

These are wonderful for activities that require a helmet. I love wearing them while riding my bike because the temples are thin and light and the weight of my helmet doesn't smash them into my head the way it does with some sunglasses. Revo uses technology that creates a high contrast polarization to help with glare and clarity making them ideal for people who spend time on the water.

Revo's Eco Collection utilizes recycled material for the frames and a non petroleum based nylons for construction. They're innovative, comfortable and eco friendly and perfect for the Summer. Find them HERE.

Dyson's New No-Blade Fan

2011-07-30T09:23:00.000-07:00

If you use a fan for Summer cooling, you might have run into the same problem I have--many fans don't come apart to clean and you end up having to throw the whole thing away at a certain point. This is so wasteful. Last year, I bought a new fan by Honeywell that said it was easy to take apart for cleaning, but when I tried to get it apart, after several screws, it still would not detach.

Enter Dyson's new bladless fan. Here is a fan you will never have to throw away because you can't clean it. The air circulates via what they call "air multiplier technology" which is supposed to draw in air and recirculate it amplified smoothly. It's fairly quiet, especially on the low speeds. The fan comes with a remote control, which, true to Dyson's craftiness, magnetically attaches to the fan so you won't lose it when you're not using it.

The fan is very good looking and has a sleek, modern design. The indicator light is a nice cobalt blue and the buttons are all intuitive. It has a very small footprint and takes up very little space. It's not the eyesore some fans are, it looks nice in the room, bordering on functional art.

The only thing I can find that I'm not crazy about is the price tag. For some this won't matter, but others might want to look for it on sale. I fell in love with Dyson a couple of years ago with their cannister vacuum which is still going strong. Both the fan and the vacuum are great for people with allergies. You can easily clean dust off the fan on a regular basis and the vacuums are allergy tested and certified.
If you have children or animals that might get caught in fan blades, this fan has a lot going for it safety wise. You can put your hand right through the hole and all you feel is air. Very innovative. Check out Dyson's new fan selection HERE.

Grand Trunk Beach Shelter: Easy Portable Shade

2011-07-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Love the beach but need some shade? Grand Trunk has a super easy solution for this, the Celio Beach Shelter. This works well at a sandy beach, or a rocky beach, a park, outdoor concert, or anywhere you need portable shade. The Celio comes with stakes to stake it down, and it has sand pouches sewn in to keep it anchored at the beach.

It literally takes just a couple of minutes to set this up, but even more importantly to me, it takes the same amount of time to take it down. It also fits easily back into its storage bag which is great, so often these things are near impossible to get back in the bag. It's well made and will last.

This is ideal for taking little ones to the beach where the sun can be too intense for tender skin. The tent walls offer a sun protection that's rated UPF 50. The bottom is removable so that they can still play in the sand under the shade. I've seen cheaper versions of this, but that's what they are, cheap. They look like they won't make it through a Summer while this is very well made and will easily last you many many seasons.

The poles remain attached with their fold up design so they won't get lost. Everything stays together in the carry bag and weighs 6 pounds. It's great for keeping right in the car ready for action. When you've found your spot, sling it around your shoulder and off you go. Find it Here.

Organic Summer Bedding: Savvy Rest Woolsy Mattress Topper

2011-07-27T09:01:00.000-07:00

Wool for Summer? Yes. Because it's so warm and toasty during Winter, we tend to think of wool as inappropriate for warmer weather, but it's just the opposite.   Wool is ideal for Summer because it wicks away moisture and helps regulate body temperature, it actually helps keep you cool.

Wool is naturally flame and dust mite resistant, and it is hypo-allergenic so it's a great option for people who can't handle down or synthetic materials. And speaking of synthetics, bedding can be fraught with toxic chemicals and carcinogens. Organic wool is free of harmful substances that can disturb sleep and your health.

This Savvy Rest Woolsy Mattress Topper is fabulous.   It's soft and billowy and comforting. I sleep on a very pleasing mattress to begin with--a Tempurpedic (if I had it to do over I'd go with something more eco friendly, but it's incredibly comfortable). I didn't think I could improve much on how soft and cozy my bed is, but the Woolsy made it even more luxurious and plush, it really stepped up the comfort level. I'm also a bit of an insomniac, so anything that helps me sleep is worth its weight in gold.

This topper is not washable, however, so if you want to protect it you have to place something over it. I am currently searching for an appropriate solution to this and will let you know when I find one. I'd hate to have anything happen to this wonderful bedding.

We spend eight hours of our day in bed, that's a third of our lives. We should have the healthiest, most comfortable bedding possible. The Woolsy is made from high quality organic wool and cotton and will likely improve your sleep, it did for me.   Good sleep is critical to rejuvenation and good health and great organic bedding is worth the investment. Find it HERE.

In Their Words: Savvy Rest is the nation's leading organic mattresses and bedding brand, made in Virginia and sold in a growing network of eco-themed stores across the country. Savvy Rest's product line was developed in response to consumers' increasing concerns about indoor air quality and the toxic chemicals used in most conventional mattresses. Savvy Rest Organic Mattresses are made of all-natural latex rubber, certified organic wool and certified organic cotton. The Savvy Rest bedding line includes organic mattress toppers, sheets, mattress pads, and pillows.

Overland Equipment Shasta: Great Summer Sling

2011-07-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Overland Equipment's Shasta bag is a great pick for Summer adventures. Whether you're traveling, hiking, or just tooling around town, this is a nice minimalist comfortable pack. The sling style makes it very easy to get to your stuff while still wearing the bag.

At first I thought this bag would be too big. I liked that it was half of a backpack and wanted it to be compact. Well, it is. After you use it a few times, it breaks in, and feels just right. It can be adjusted to fit your frame, which is great for me since bags are often too long for me.

Small, medium, and large zippered compartments make for just the right amount of organization. The first is ideal for the cellphone and lip balm, the other two are plenty big enough for a lunch, a jacket, magazines, flip flops, other electronics, etc., and there's a loop that you can put a carabiner through for keys. The bag holds a lot of stuff. I love the open water bottle at the top, probably my favorite feature. It will hold a pretty big bottle, making it great for Summer treks around town. The mesh backing wicks away moisture helping to keep you cool. Find it Here.

Tub Trugs: Colorful Multifunction for Your Organic Garden and Beyond

2011-07-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

Tub Trugs are fabulous for the garden. I use them to weed, to transplant, to temporarily hold starts, to water...and to look beautiful out and about. The bright colors are cheerful to see and set a fun tone in the back yard and inside. I love them in the house for laundry, toys, camping gear, car or bicycle washing, arts and crafts, the uses are endless. You can even drill holes in the bottom and use them as planters.

For me, you can't have too much color when it comes to utilitarian items. Color affects mood, and when you're trudging round the garden, it's nice to have that bright color to sort of give you a boost. I'm super tired of the same old boring colors you find--mainly forest green and that horrid beige. These scream life, action, energy! They're eye candy. So they had me at first sight with the color.

But then they sealed the deal with function. They're food grade plastic, are UV and frost protected so they won't break down in the sun or cold, are flexible but super strong, and come in many gorgeous colors. They're so well made, you buy them once, but I recommend a variety of sizes for all the different functions you can think of. They stack nicely and are easy to store when not in use. Find them HERE.

SUMMER CAMPING: Packing Checklist

2011-07-23T08:02:00.000-07:00

I consider car camping to be pretty luxurious, so why not go all the way and indulge in gourmet food and creature comforts? When packing, be sure to keep items together in their respective groups to help with organization and easy set up. Here is my packing list for Summer car camping (it's a loose list, so feel free to add or subtract based on your own needs):

Sleeping:
tent and footprint/tarp
sleeping pads/mattress
sleeping bags
camp pillows
book to read in bed/light to read by
mallet or hammer for stakes (or do what I do and use a rock)
mini dust pan/brush

Eating:
bear proof container or plan to keep food in car to prevent raccoons, bears, etc. from invading your camp
cooler stocked with healthy foods--salads and fresh fruit and veggies are totally doable
reusable plates/utensils/mugs
stove
pots and pans for cooking (I like stainless for non toxicity and durability)
bamboo skewers for veggie kabobs
sticks for roasting vegan marshmallows
extra large water jug(s)
cutting board/knife
kitchen towels (colorful ones that make your camp look festive)
salt and pepper shaker, spices
pet food/bowl

Site Comforts & Camp Necessities:
camera
lanterns
headlamps
flashlights
hammocks
extra blankets
camp chairs
long nose butane lighter
multi-tool
trash bags

Toiletries:
chemical free wipes
towels
biodegradable earth friendly soap
sunscreen, insect repellent (non-deet, non toxic-- badger balm makes good ones)
lip balm
contacts/glasses/cases/solution
first aid kit

Practical Extras:
extra batteries
extra fuel (for stove, torches)
duct tape
clothes line
small shovel
mallet for stakes
extra stakes
reflective guy lines
solar shower
waste bags

Luxuries:
iPad and popcorn for watching a movie after sundown--it's allowed!
solar or battery operated festive string lights
french press/organic coffee
festive tablecloth
board games, playing cards

Summer Travel Part 3: Kids

2011-07-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

While sitting on a train staring out the window for me is meditative bliss, my six year old gets a bit restless. A few strategically packed activities make all the difference in the world. Beyond electronics, like my beloved iPad and iPod which help make waiting times roll by with ease, I think it's important to have non-electronic things to do. Good old fashioned writing activities are still fun and stealthily help prepare your child for school. Peaceable Kingdom makes fabulous Write and Wipe Books perfect for the car or plane. They can be used over and over and traded amongst kids. They come in different themes, the Silly and the Spy are my favorites. They also have various card games, like the piratey Crazy Mates which is great for interaction and making new friends. I love the Peaceable Kingdom graphics so much, I wish they would come out with prints, really fun modern stuff.

For plane travel, I love these die cast Airport Play Sets by Daron. You can find pretty much any airline you want and how fun for kids to be able to play with a miniature version? This gets them acquainted with airport functions and eases anxiety. They're made well, and hold up to tough six year old play. I think they're great for boys or girls. If you have more than one child, they can each have their own favorite airline.

To get those imaginations going, Story Cubes do the job in a very fun game-like way. You roll the dice which have several unique graphics, and then make up a story based on the pictures you come up with. My son loves these and so do I. This sort of open ended play is versatile and lends itself to many different situations and players. They're great at restaurants too.

All of the above are very inexpensive and worth their weight in gold when they are needed. I like to gift-wrap stuff like this and pull it out at the right moment just as things start to go South, parents, you know exactly what I mean. A healthy snack and a fun activity can get you a lot of mileage. Happy travels!

OPA COVE pfds for Kids

2011-07-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

If you have a little one that's going to be around water this Summer, you have to see this fabulous PFDs and Swim Assist Vests from OPA COVE.

In and effort to "enhance family life and create products that foster family interaction, children's safety, and fun, ” the folks at Opa Cove have come up with the coolest kids pfds and swim vests I have ever seen. Talk about combining function with brilliant design, these combine safety with great design. Certified by the US Cost Guard, these pfds are something your children will want to wear, maybe something they won't want to take off.

They come in two versions, the swim assist to help children learn to swim and the pfd which is suitable for canoeing, water skiing, kayaking, and wake boarding. Appropriate for ages 2-7, the vests keep kids safe while allowing them the joy of pretending to be a dolphin, clownfish, shark or orca whale.

I'm not sure about the sizing for these, my son measured for the medium, but took a large. They do sell them at REI, so you can try them on first.

ZOKU: Instant Gratification for Summer

2011-07-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

Zoku has turned popsicle making into an art form. Check out these beautiful pops you can make with this thing! What's different about this pop maker? You can have them ready to eat in 10 minutes, amazing. And that instant gratification makes the Zoku especially entertaining to kids. That, and the creativity you can employ to make lovely edible art.

I love that You control the ingredients. That means wholesome organic healthy ingredients. My first go at this was a flop, I'm not sure what I did wrong, but I have been experimenting regularly with great success. I think the trick is to make sure the Zoku has been in the freezer for at least 24 hours and that the ingredients are also cold.

You can pour in some juice--even a green smoothie and in a few minutes, voila! Pops! If you want to get really fancy, Zoku has a special tool kit so that you can include little star shapes (how cute for the Fourth of July) and layers among other things. Find Zoku HERE.

YAKIMA HighLite Hitch Mount Bike Rack

2011-07-14T08:20:00.000-07:00

When I heard about the new Yakima HighLite bike rack, I got very excited because at long last, there was a hitch mount bike rack that would be manageable for me. The HighLite is a departure from the traditional hefty steel mounts, it's aluminum and very light weight, and I can lift it with one hand. It's also extremely simple and easy to install. It will fit both 2 inch hitches and class two 1 1/4 inch hitches.

At first, when I lifted the box, I thought it was heavier than expected. As I opened the box, the inside had a cheeky message for me, "Told you it was light," and sure enough, the main body was light, the part that was adding the weight to the box was the shank, which attaches to the hitch and you don't lift that part again after attaching it. The HighLite body is so light even my six year old lifted it easily with one hand. This is great if you want to take it off and store it for the winter or switch it to a different vehicle. It's a piece of cake to attach and detach.

Getting the bikes on and off was the tricky part for me, having never used this type of mount before, but after doing it once, I had the hang of it. I don't have a ton of upper body strength and I was able to get two bikes on and off the arms by myself just fine. The hardest part for me was maneuvering the rubber straps which are very stiff at first. The arms feature anti-sway cradles to keep bikes from scratching each other and provide stability, and there are straps to help secure your wheels and handlebars and keep everything nice and tight. If your bike is odd shaped or lacks a top bar, you can get the Tubetop adapter which clamps right on.

There are two locks, one at the bottom so that someone can't detach your rack, and an integrated cable lock at the top to secure your bikes, both are simple to use and Yakima includes two keys. The arm folds down when not in use, you just pull the trigger latch at the top and they come right down. The whole rack also tilts by pulling a knob at the bottom so that you can get inside your hatch easily. This works great and the rack is very low profile and out of the way when you need it to be. We have a wagon which is quite long and I wondered if the carrier would make it harder for me to park and whatnot, but it poses no problem at all, I hardly notice it.

The HighLite comes in a two and three bike version and is available in silver or white. I love this rack, it makes me feel empowered and ready for adventure. Yakima really tried to think of everything, you'll even find bottle openers on this carrier to hydrate after an invigorating ride. Find it HERE.

JETBOIL SOL

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Jetboil Sol was designed with extreme conditions in mind. But even if your adventures don't take you into the back country, this is a wonderful thing to have. This little stove is perfect for boiling water for coffee, tea, your morning oatmeal or soup on the fly. It takes about three minutes, so why not use this instead of firing up the big boy. Or, use it right along side the bigger stoves.

It's also a great thing to have in your emergency backpack. I've been two weeks without power after a hurricane, and boy do you miss warm food and drinks. Jetboil is well known to fire right up even in freezing cold weather. I love the ignition button which sets it apart from other compact stoves, you don't need matches, it self starts.

The stove is super light weight at only 10.5 oz. and it's so well designed and self contained it's ideal for backpacking. Even for leisurely day trips on the trails, it's a wonderful thing to take along for a nice meal at a scenic spot. You can take the Jetboil on the plane (without the fuel) which makes it great for back-door style travel. Included is a stabilizing tripod, a pot stabilizer, the heat indicating and insulating cozy, lid with pour spout and strainer--everything you need but the fuel.

Besides the great function, did I mention the super cool looks? The handsome charcoal gray pairs perfectly with the orange, making this as aesthetically pleasing as it is useful. If you're into the outdoors and/or travel, check out the Jetboil Sol. Find it, and watch a demo video HERE.

Mountainsmith Modular Hauler 3 System

2011-07-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Need a great way to stay organized while car camping or traveling? Check out this cool Hauler system from Mountainsmith. These are color coded storage cubes that fit into a larger open case. This has so many uses--car travel, home storage, kid toys and supplies, pretty much anything you can think of.

The individual cases are well made and will hold some weight. The color coding is so smart, you can give one to each child and have them pack their stuff, or you can code your gear. The Haulers come in two, three, and four cube systems to fit your needs. Cube tops are see through laminated mesh with zipper access. The hauler portion is made from heavy duty ballistic nylon while the cubes are constructed of durable rip stop nylon.

A big part of making camping fun and keeping things running smoothly, is staying organized. Things can get stressful if you can't find what you're looking for, especially if you're camping and it's dark. How wonderful to have a place for everything and everything in its place for easy access. Find this fabulous system HERE.

Vertical Bike Storage System from Gear Up

2011-07-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

If you live in a small space, you know it can be tricky to store your bike(s). Even if you live in a big place, it's always nice to be organized. I love the household real estate saving quality of this vertical bike rack from Gear Up.

This is a floor to ceiling rack that uses tension to hold everything up. It has a very small footprint and will keep those bikes up and out of the way while looking great. There is padding on either end of the main structure to protect floors and ceilings. It's perfect for apartment dwellers, and everyone who would prefer not to put holes in the ceiling and will accommodate 7-11 ft. high ceilings.

The body of the rack is heavy duty airplane grade aluminum and works fine indoors or on balconies, carports, garages or basements. If it will be exposed to weather elements, say stored outside on a covered porch, it is recommended that you occasionally apply some WD-40 to the nuts and bolts to extend their life as they are the most vulnerable parts, which the company is happy to replace when and if needed. The arms are carbon steel coated with vinyl--strong but gentle on bikes. The rack is built to last and something you buy once.

Set up is pretty straight-forward. On the box it says it takes minutes, and now that I have done it, yes, I can see it taking minutes, but for the first time you might want to allow a good half hour. Should you run into any problems, Gear Up has an extremely helpful and friendly staff that will walk you through it over the phone.

For odd shaped bikes, there are adapters that you can get that will facilitate mounting the bike. I had this issue with my commuter-cruiser hybrid, but with the adapter bar, it fits fine. You can purchase extras arms to mount additional bikes up to 200lbs, though I think aesthetically, two is really ideal unless they are kids' bikes.

It is a good looking design that would match many different styles, I think it has an industrial modern look and I can see it in a variety of settings. I really like this for use indoors--there's something fun about seeing your bike in the house. Gear Up has many different styles and storage solutions to choose from, find them HERE.

Ellington's Amelia IN-FLIGHT TOTE: Carry On Perfection

2011-07-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

For years I have been on the lookout for the ideal carry on for the plane. Not the luggage carry on, but the "personal item" carry on. Ellington's Amelia In Flight Tote more than fits the bill, I'm so excited to have discovered it!

There's a million pockets, for one thing. Places to put your phone, your ipod, your sunglasses, snacks, wallet and travel documents, umbrella, magazines, pretty much whatever you want. Four of the compartments have magnetic closures (I love those) making it easy to open and close and keeping your stuff secure. There is a hook for your keys and an optional shoulder strap so you can wear it two ways. The hardware is silver which adds to the bag's good looks.

The main compartment zips and there is another zipped compartment inside. I love the bottle holder on the inside--usually you find those on the outside. Moms will appreciate the washable nylon and abundant space for kid stuff. It has the optional opening in the back so you can slide it right over the handle on your wheelie bag.

It makes a perfect in flight tote indeed, but I think it would also be wonderful for other purposes. Commuting to work, for instance, or a train or car trip. Any time you want to take a minimalist approach to what you have with you travel-wise, this is a great way to maximize your minimalism. This tote and a carry on wheelie bag is all you need for a trip lasting two days to two weeks. The classic design and high quality construction will make this a lasting staple. It comes in different colors, but I always opt for black, particularly for air travel.

Broccoli Tree House

2011-06-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

Brock Davis couldn't build a real tree house for his son, so he created this. Fabulous.

Image credit: Brock Davis

ISIS Coconut Carbon Tempest Jacket

2011-06-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

A jacket made with coconut carbon? How cool is this? The ISIS Tempest Jacket utilizes natural technology called Cocona. This is coconut carbon utilizes ground coconut shells to create a more breathable material and reduce chemical materials used in other waterproof fabrics. It spreads moisture over the surface accelerating evaporation and drying. Coconut carbon is a recycled and sustainable material. This is great progress and a win-win for eco friendly technical clothing.

This is a figure flattering jacket. The seams along the sides create slimming lines and the back goes over the bum. There's a stash pocket on the inside, the zipper pulls are chunky and comfortable and the zippers are two way and have taped seams to keep them waterproof. The right pocket of the jacket doubles as a stuff sack making this great for travel or keeping on hand in your bag for unexpected weather.

It comes in some great colors, blue, green, a perfect-for-cycling orange and my favorite, black. Contrasting patterned white is on the inside--I wish it were black as well, but it is a cheery pattern. I do really like the little stars along the inner zipper seam. The hood is adjustable and cinches down and stows when not needed. This is a soft coat. The material is flexible and comfortable which is not always the case with rain jackets. There's even a velvet patch to protect your neck and chin when you have the coat zipped all the way up which is a nice touch. Great attention to details with the Tempest.

I love the little details like the fortune cookie-esqe note that's in the pocket that says "You are a Goddess" (now on my fridge), and the fun little quotes on the tag like, "Journeys are always more interesting than destinations." I'm new to ISIS, but I have to say, my first impression is great. Check out the Tempest Jacket HERE.

Coleman Instant Tent: Doesn't Get Easier

2011-06-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

When Coleman says "instant" tent, they are not kidding. You pull this tent out of the duffel it comes with and open each pole similarly to the way you would an umbrella. In less than a minute I can set this up by myself, it doesn't get easier. Taking it down, which in some ways is even more important to me, is just as simple. The duffel is big enough that there is no struggle getting it back in and the tent comes down with ease. You can watch a demo video HERE showing the process and they are using the bigger version of this tent, the four person is even easier. This makes camping accessible and opens up a world of Summer activities for the family.

It's made with heavy duty material and taped seams so that you don't have to use a rain fly. I would not push this too far however. If you will be camping in windy weather, opt for a dome tent. I'd say the same for heavy rain. It's not appropriate for back packing, but it's great for car camping and for Summer, I think it's ideal, particularly for people new to camping or who might be intimidated by setting up a tent.

It's great for the back yard and even inside the house. Because it's so easy to operate, there's no hesitation if your kids want to play "camp out" on a rainy day. You put it up, they play for a couple of hours, you take it down. It's that easy. My son loves to get cozy in the tent and read books or play with the Ipad. On sunny days, he's an adventurer.

While camping, if it is raining or dark during set up or take down, how helpful to have it happen fast. It's a one piece design that comes with stakes to secure the tent once it's up. There are no parts to lose and everything is pre-attached and stays together. I'd get some heftier tent stakes if you think you will be encountering wind, and I wish the tent had four windows instead of three, it can get stuffy so again, I wouldn't choose this one for prolonged rainy weather camping. It's a four person tent, but I think it's the perfect size for two people and when you are car camping, you can afford such luxuries. The tent also comes in two bigger sizes to accommodate more people. It's a great tent, a good value, and a really great idea for easy Summer fun. Check it out HERE.

BODUM Fyrkat BBQ Grill: Perfect for Summer

2011-06-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Fourth of July and BBQs are synonymous. This year, Bodum combines great design with function in their new FYRKAT BBQ GRILL which is festive and Summery and perfect for seasonal celebrations. It comes in bold bright cheery colors like orange, red and green, which really enhance the atmosphere. The silicone on the handle is a great touch and it's portable. There are clamps on the side so that you may take it with you to the park the beach or the camp ground for BBQ-picnics. It also dresses up the back yard.

It's easy and straightforward to use. Be sure to get the chemical free charcoal briquettes, you can also add extra flavor by using mesquite. Veggie kabobs, grilled portabella mushrooms, and corn on the cob are all great healthy ways to use a grill. For kids, you can do tofu-pups, veggie burgers, and vegan marshmallows. I think this grill would be fabulous for Fourth of July and other Summer festivities. Find it HERE.

Go the F*k to Sleep

2011-06-24T09:18:00.000-07:00

For those of us who go through nightly bedtime drama, Adam Masnbach's Go the F*k to Sleep offers some desperately needed comic relief. Most of us can't be shocked these days, but seeing this made-for-adults childrens' book does initially shock, just a little, and in a delicious way.

The illustrations by Ricardo Cortes are beautiful, and if you didn't read English, you would just think this was a sweet little bedtime book. The innocent graphics make for a mischievously delightful juxtaposition to the prose. Mansbach has been writing for a decade and just happened to make a joke on facebook, it spread like wildfire, and the book was born.

This irreverent jab at bedtime is a great antidote to pastel bunnies and saccharine rhymes, and it's just a welcome chuckle for exhausted parents. Not for those offended by four letter words (and if you are, read this).