Use Your Eco Shopping Bags At Target

I was reading today that when you use your reusable shopping bags at Target, you will receive a $.05 credit per bag you use. My local grocery store has this same policy so I am sure it is going to be something that more and more stores will start to offer in an effort to help go green.

I know 5 cents does not sound like too much, but it all your savings will eventually add up!

Stefani

Coupons For Organic And Natural Products

I just love finding coupons that I can actually use. I use to clip coupons years ago and let them go to waste because they were normally for products that I did not need. The internet is a great place to find coupons for products that you actually use! Many mom bloggers even post ways that they save money by using coupons and finding sales.

The website Coupon Mommie has a list on her site of some valuable coupons for organic and natural products that you can print. I though you might enjoy her post if you use any of the products that she mentions.

Enjoy
Stefani

Does Your Kids Have Toxic Toys?

Did you know that toys can be a source of toxicity in your child's bedroom or nursery? Since the U.S. government does not require full testing of chemicals before they are added to toys, that is why lead is found in a significant percentage of the toys currently sold on the market. In addition to lead in toys, many toys also are made from plastic containing PVC, phthalates and BPA.

If you want to make certain that you are buying safe toys for your children, look for toys that are made of solid wood with nontoxic paints. If you prefer to buy plastic or rubber toys, look for the term "PVC free" on toy packages when you are shopping. The more natural toys you buy your child, the better.

If you are looking for stores online to buy toys that are safe for your child, I have compiled a short list below:

I Love My Planet Toys
Earthentree
Hazelnut Kids
Green Toys
Oompa Toys
Peapods Natural Toys

Toys R Us has also come out with a line of natural wood toys that are paint free. These toys include cars, trucks and blocks.

Enjoy
Stefani

Love Chips?

Many people love chips! Most people don't know just how fattening and unhealthy they can be. There are those that know but just don't care.

Anyhow, I recently was given the opportunity to try some chips that are made out of certified organic corn. Their chips are also baked and not fried. I thought I would share with you this company just in case you are looking for more healthy alternative to your traditional chips!

The site is Guiltless Gourmet. They have a variety of chips, dips, desserts, sandwich wraps and more! You can read my full product review here.

Until Next Time
Stefani

How Much Radiation Does Your Cell Phone Give Off?

You have probably wondered at least once if your cell phone is safe? I have wondered this myself throughout the years. I never heard any specifics on why they were not safe, but I did hear negative things about them. When I pump gas, I have seen signs that say don't use your cell phone. I have also been at the hospital where there are signs for no cell phone use.

From what I know now, cell phones give off radiation when you are using them and when they are on your body. This radiation is given off when your phone is sending signals to the carrier. I know that I don't want to give up my cell phone. Different cell phones give off different amounts of radiation. If you are one that uses a cell phone often, it might be a good idea to check the radiation that your phone gives off.

If you want to more, check out "Frequently Asked Questions About Cell Phones".

You can also check the radiation of your cell phone below:

John Masters Organics

If you are looking for an organic body moisturizer, I have found the perfect product. The company John Masters Organics has a product called the "Blood Orange & Vanilla Milk". Not only does this product smell wonderful, it makes your skin nice and soft. I have been using this product for the last few months and LOVE it. It is my favorite thing to put on my skin when I get out of the shower.

Here is some info from their website about this product:

This quickly-absorbing, delicate blend of milk thistle, aloe vera and essential oils of blood orange and vanilla has a beautiful light scent. Safflower oil and sea algae hydrate the skin while aloe vera helps to heal. Rich in nutrients, it replenishes while making the skin soft.

Here are the key ingredients:

• blood orange - helps with collagen formation; detoxifies skin
• bourbon vanilla - promotes sense of well being
• milk thistle - antioxidant
• vegetable glycerin - humectant
• sea algae extract - soothing and nourishing to skin
• aloe vera gel - anti-inflammatory; soothing

This product is Certified Organic by QAI/CCOF.
It contains NO GMOs, parabens, DEAs, MEAs, TEAs, sodium laurel sulfate, artificial color, artificial fragrance or petro-chemicals. It is also made in the USA.

You can find this product by visiting: http://www.johnmasters.com

Fruits And Vegetables To Buy Organic

Here is a list of the fruits and vegetables that you will find at your local supermarket that will most likely contain pesticide residues.

• Apples
• Cantaloupe
• Grapes
  
• Green beans
• Peaches
• Pears
• Potatoes
  
• Raspberries
  
• Spinach
  
• Strawberries
• Sweet bell peppers 
  
• Tomatoes

The list above is based on studies by the Consumers Union and Environmental Working Group. They analyze  the amounts of toxicity of pesticide residue found in conventionally grown food. Try to buy organic for the vegetables and fruits listed above.

You can find organic fruits and vegetables at your local farmers markets. There are some stores that have organic products such as Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Safeway and now even Walmart. You will find a larger selection though by finding a local farmers market near you. You can search for a local farmer through CSA by visiting: http://www.wilson.edu/csasearch/search.asp

If you do not buy organic, wash your non organic produce well. They have products on the market that you can use to wash your produce. One of these products is called Veggie Wash. You can also make your own vegetable and fruit wash by mixing 1/4 cup vinegar and 2 TBS salt into a dish pan with filtered water.

Which Oils Should You Be Cooking With

When cooking, it is often confusing with all the different types of oils available at the grocery market. The generic term of "vegetable oil" actually refers to a blend of a variety of oils. These often include corn and soybean oils. If these oils are not organic, they are going to be most likely genetically modified.

If at all possible, you should try to cook with olive oil. It has no trans fat and can be great for cooking with. You can use it with your salad, for frying, baking as well as grilling. You can also use macadamia nut oil, rice bran oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil or hemp seed oil. While these oils might be a little more expensive, it is well worth the health advantage for your family.