Brand of the Free

Early Onset of Spring Fever

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:07:00 +0000

It's official - Spring Fever has hit me in a big way. Here in Northern Virginia, the temperature actually reached 40 degrees today, and when I ventured outside for lunch, the bright sun warmed my spirit. Never mind the piles of dirty snow and the iced over trees and puddles, my sights are set on spring! I am SO looking forward to the bright vibrant colors that will burst through the grayish drab. I'll bet you can identify.

With all these thoughts of spring, I need to share the 2011 Crystal Couture experience with you. Brand of the Free (BOTF) has been participating in this amazing Crystal City event all week (February 1-5). It's been a phenomenal time - great music, great people, cash bar, body painting, and lots of fresh new fashions on the runway. Don't miss out on the last night of partying. Saturday night will wrap up the event, and will be a night to remember!

Push through the dullness of a "blah" winter, and experience the sights, sounds and energy of Crystal Couture. If you're in the area, stop by to see us. Joe and I would love to meet you. Don't miss BOTF on the runway!

Check out the Crystal City website for more info and some fun photos.

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special promotions!

So Much to be Thankful For

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 17:23:00 +0000

Just wanted to take a moment to wish you a wonderful, warm, joy filled Thanksgiving!

The awesome aroma of Thanksgiving is all around us, as we gather together to celebrate family, friends, and all the blessings we have been showered with.

A few of the things we are especially thankful for:

Our most wonderful family, and welcoming our future daughter in law to our mix : - )

All of our friends, and those of you who we are getting to know

A warm home filled with love, which is a special blessing from God

The last lingering colors of Fall

The Christmas music that is already playing...

Lots of comfort food made with love

and the pumpkin pie that we broke into this morning cuz we just couldn't wait!!!!!

Enjoy this special time and don't waste a moment of it!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Cick here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special discounts/giveaways!

The Tee's in the Mail

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 18:22:00 +0000

Congratulations to Kevin T of San Francisco! His name was randomly selected to receive a "New Growth" T-Shirt in our latest giveaway.

Thank you all for your support. It's fun meeting more and more of you, hearing your interpretations of our BOTF designs. Very cool!

Be sure to check our Facebook page for future giveaways and promotions!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special discounts/giveaways!

"New Growth" Organic Tee Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 17:00:00 +0000

It's T-Shirt giveaway time again! Brand of the Free (BOTF) is giving away a "New Growth" organic tee! Here is your chance to win this cool, cozy tee - for yourself or maybe to give as a gift to a friend!

You can enter up to three times. It's easy, just follow the steps below:*

1. Sign up for our email list at
http://www.brandofthefree.net/ If you are already on our email/newsletter list, you are automatically entered!

2. Post a comment on this blog, letting us know your fav BOTF designs, or why choosing American made, organic apparel is important to you.

3. Post a comment on our BOTF Facebook Page on the T-Shirt Giveaway Post.

*Enter by midnight of October 31st to be eligible. The winner will be announced on Monday, November 1st.

Good luck!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info and special discounts/giveaways

Good People Make the Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:45:00 +0000

We're truly enjoying our experience at the Reston Farmer's Market at Lake Anne. The warm community atmosphere, the tranquility of the lake, the array of wonderful produce, meats, bread, dairy and all the vendors offering so many beautiful, unique products make this market extraordinary!

As always, it's the people that make the difference. We've met many interesting people as they shop the market, and made some new friends with "locals" that frequent the market regularly. We've also developed friendships with many of the vendors.

One vendor who really shines is Pat Greer of PL Greer Designs. I love to hear Pat speak of her craft...she is gifted, inspiring, and very humble. Most of her jewelry designs are one of a kind, and she handcrafts each piece to perfection. Pat's artisan jewelry has a unique ethnic flair, using sterling silver, copper and brass.

If you're drawn to jewelry that makes a statement, whether it be bold or subtle, make sure to stop by PL Greer Designs on Saturdays 8am-1pm at The Reston Farmer's Market at Lake Anne, or take a moment to browse Pat's website.

http://www.plgreer.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways.

Tee Shirt a Month Giveaway for a Year

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 17:29:00 +0000

Congratulations to Catherine from Washington, DC! She was randomly selected to receive a BOTF tee shirt each month for 13 months. We are so excited to ship out her first shirt...DC Delicious!

Catherine - hope you enjoy your first tee and all that follow!

A special thanks to all of you - your response has been heartwarming. So many of you share our commitment to the support of American made products and a more eco-conscious mindset. Please continue to contact us with your thoughts and feedback.

Be sure to keep your eyes open for future giveaways!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info and special discounts/giveaways.

All Your Favorite BOTF Tees

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:58:00 +0000

Summer is going by so quickly! We've been in a whirlwind lately, displaying at Artscape in Baltimore, Saturday and Thursday nights at Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne, and Sundays at the West End Farmers Market at Cameron Station. There are more great locations on the calendar and we'll make sure to let you know as they get closer.

We're excited about the growth that Brand of the Free is experiencing. Because of your support, whether it be through a purchase or spreading the word, BOTF tees are popping up all over! It's cool to meet new people who are thrilled to find us because they recognize our designs. Those of you who are able to come out to the markets - we enjoy getting to know you more each time we visit, and appreciate your support and input/feedback BIG TIME!

We want to thank all of you very much for your support!

One of the ways we thought of to say "thank you" is to give away a years worth of BOTF tees. When you sign up for our newsletter, you will be automatically entered. (if you are currently on our newsletter email list, you are already entered!) The lucky winner will receive a BOTF tee a month, for 13 months. Yes....now THAT'S the way to get all those designs you've been wanting!

If you're not signed up for our newsletter yet, you have until midnight on July 31st to be eligible for the giveaway. Good luck and enjoy the rest of the Summer!

You can sign up on our Facebook Page or enter your email address on the left side of our BOTF website http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways

Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:35:00 +0000

We found a wonderful farmers market, and could not wait to share it with you!

The Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne is an amazing experience. The atmosphere oozes warm community, and the music is wonderful. Not to mention the vendor/artisan market is located right at the lake...it can't get much better than that!

Remember to bring your market bags - I promise you will fill them up! The aroma of kettle corn will entice your senses, and you will find wonderful breads, baked goods, fresh prepared foods, meats, cheeses, produce, honey, fresh flowers and plants and so much more.

You will love the variety of the artisan vendors. So many quality items, including bath and body products, handmade knit shawls, handcrafted and vintage jewelry, vintage linens, baskets, organic baby clothes, tees, apparel...the list goes on and on.

If you are in the area, make sure to stop by the Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne on Saturdays, 8am-12 noon. (the vendors side is open an hour or two longer)

We will have our Brand of the Free display set up on Saturdays. Be sure to stop by and visit! ("like" us on our Facebook Page for updates on upcoming events)

http://www.restonfarmersmarket.com/ Info, vendors, directions, hours

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways

Sometimes it's as Simple as a Glass Jar

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:34:00 +0000

You never know what may spark your brain to connect with an idea. This is really a small idea...probably one that you already do. But for me it was an "enlightenment". And it involves glass jars. Lots of them.

I was reading through "50 Things you can Reuse" and #26 jumped out at me. "Reuse old glass containers" jarred me a little. You see, I am in dire need of storage containers, and I'm trying to stay away from the plastic ones. I made up my mind to look for some American made glass containers, but just haven't gotten around to it yet. But, wait, I already have lots of glass jars in my pantry, in the frig, and on my counter! In the past, when we used up the contents of the jars, we always threw the glass in the recycler container. Wouldn't it make more sense to reuse the jars? Since I buy lots of natural, organic foods from farmer's markets, I have many interesting styles, shapes, and sizes.

You would think I just won the lottery or something - I'm so excited about this! The reusing possibilities are endless. I'll just name a few of my ideas ...a really cute fresh flower vase for yourself or a gift, storage for rice, flour, sugar, cereal, etc. (make sure the jars are food safe, with airtight lids), mixing jar and storage for homemade salad dressings, mason jar beverage glasses (so cute), candy jar, reusable water container, picnic/lunch food and condiment containers, hardware (nails, screws, washers,etc) or office odds and ends such as paper clips, pens/pencils, personal items such as cotton balls, cotton swabs.

The main reason I am out of reusable plastic containers is that I love to send food home with people after entertaining. I usually don't get them back. So, you know I'll be filling those jars up with leftovers for friends and family, and I am sure they will reuse them even more. Yes!!!

Got more ideas? We're always listening!

Check out this site for some great "reusing" ideas http://www.squidoo.com/reuse-everythng

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here for BOTF Facebook Page

Why Organic Farming?

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Tue, 11 May 2010 18:06:00 +0000

Do you understand the difference between "organic" and "traditional" farming methods? And what about genetically modified (GM) foods?

If you're like me, you have lots of questions. Since we started offering 100% organic cotton tees, many people ask "what" and "why". They want to know what does organic actually mean, and why is it important to choose organic whenever possible.

In a nutshell, organic farming is the phrase used to describe the process of growing plants without the use of traditional chemicals like pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified (GM) organisms. For me the choice is an easy one - I want the least amount of chemicals in my food and on my body as possible.

With all of the chemicals and additives in our day to day lives, it's just about impossible to be 100% natural. However, I am a big believer that daily decisions will ripple out to make a positive impact on our health and the health of our country, and planet. We may not be able to make the optimal choice every time, but knowing the impact of our choices will allow us to be more responsible - making informed decisions. It makes me sad when people choose food and products for their families as though they are wearing blindfolds.

Many of the questions I had were answered at Patrick Frink's Organic Gardening site. You will find simple, easy to read information on what makes organic farming more beneficial than traditional farming. You will also learn about genetically modified foods, and some simple, quick tips for going green. Very interesting, indeed!

http://www.patrick-frink.net/methods/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here for BOTF Facebook Page

Supporting Eachother for a Better World

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Wed, 05 May 2010 15:49:00 +0000

This morning, while I was enjoying my shower, a memory popped into my head. Not just any memory...but one of the most embarrassing moments of my life. It got me thinking....

Let me take you back a few years (well maybe more than a few!). My husband, Joe, was playing in a rock band, and I went out for the night to see him. I was very pregnant - probably 8 months. Needless to say, my belly was huge. Being a band member's wife, I was very aware that curious eyes would be on me, and I was not feeling especially attractive. The night went well until IT happened. After the last song of the night, I started to walk toward Joe, who was backstage. Somehow I tripped, and managed to slide across the dance floor on my pregnant belly. I mean, you could have spun me like a top! I don't remember anyone helping me - I pulled myself up, kept my head up high, and marched back to my husband, who after making sure I was ok, just laughed the whole thing off.

Now, looking back, I see that one of my biggest fears happened that night. I made a public fool of myself. But guess what - my world didn't fall apart. Time didn't stand still. Life went on. I fell, but pulled myself up, and became a stronger person in the process.

The reason I wanted to share this with you, is because of a trend I have been seeing lately. We've all been guilty of it at times. I'm seeing alot of finger pointing, finding fault because a person or company isn't "green enough", or maybe embarking on a mission or involved with a group or charity we don't understand.

When a person (or company) makes the decision to make changes or to actually DO something to try to help a situation, each small step is so meaningful. If they are on the wrong track and fall, instead of standing back and watching, criticizing, or laughing, we should take the opportunity to offer a hand to eachother. Each step that's taken to move forward, no matter how small, will work toward the greater good.

I know so many of you are trying hard to make a difference in the world. Making changes and taking action aren't easy. But know, even when you fall and all eyes are on you, you can pick yourself up and continue on. Even if it is only you. Stand tall and keep you head held high. The world will be better for it!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here for BOTF Facebook Page Conversation, fun, info and special offers

Soap Making With a Passion

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 17:16:00 +0000

Handmade, natural soap is definitely high on my list of favorite things. I love the way it makes me feel when I see an array of beautiful soaps, take in the fragrances, and finally make my selection so I can take some home to experience the sheer creaminess of the lather. Not many people fully understand my attraction to soap, but that changed one Sunday afternoon at the Bethesda Central Farm Market.

As my husband and I were walking through the market, Mystic Water Soap lured me over with a beautiful display. As I was touching and smelling all the soaps, the owner and soap maker, Michelle Burns, introduced herself. She was very friendly and helpful, and her passion for handmade, quality soaps shone through as she shared some information about her soaps, and also a little of her personal experiences.

Michelle has always been drawn to traditional handicrafts. She's led a very interesting life, from her early years living with her grandparents on their farm in upstate New York, to San Francisco, where she worked in a restaurant which led to her becoming a professional cook. She traveled the world, and spent most of her adult life living in Italy, where she learned to make soap from local olive oil. Michelle's cooking background influences her soap making - color, appearance, and interplay of scents are very important to her.

If you share my love of wonderful, handmade soaps (or know someone who does) make sure to check out Mystic Water Soap. You will find Natural, Bath, Sea Salt and Specialty soaps. She also offers bath and body products. You can purchase Mystic Water Soap products at markets, festivals, order directly by phone or email, or find them at Smile Herb Shop in College Park, MD.

http://www.mysticwatersoap.com/ Available products, contact and ordering info, festival/market schedule

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here for BOTF Facebook Page Conversation, fun, info and special offers

Hidden Treasure in Bethesda, MD

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:17:00 +0000

If you are like me and my husband, you're always on the lookout for that "gem" of a farmer's market. Well, we found a treasure at the Bethesda Central Farm Market.

What really makes this market special is the quality and uniqueness of each vendor. I don't think I have ever been to a farmer's market that had quite the spirit and selection that we found there. Founders, Mitch Berliner and Ann Brody Cove, were looking for "the place" where they could do their weekly food shopping in one location with high quality farm fresh produce, meats, poultry, cheeses, bread, prepared products, seafood, baked goods, and more, easy free parking, without hassle and frustration. That place did not exist closeby, so they decided to open their own site. Let me tell you - they succeeded in their endeavor!

Walking into the market Sunday morning, we were greeted by Banjer Dan playing some fun music for a gathering of children and their parents. It was a delight talking with him, and he even took out a moment to pose for a picture with me. Such fun! Hmm...maybe I should have asked for a banjo lesson!

It was a pleasure meeting Michelle Burns of "Mystic Water Soap". She definitely has a passion for old fashioned crafts and skills, especially soapmaking. Mystic Water Soap products are wonderful, and Michelle's customers (including me) appreciated the soap samples she sent home with us.

Next, we sauntered over to "Pitango Gelato" and all I can say is YUM! Chris Novashinski offered us samples of their flavors and we loved all of them - especially "Chocolat Noir" and "Mojito" sorbets, which we took home with us. We WILL be back for more!

Being that I love honey, I had to check out the Banner Bee Company. Andrea Langworthy offers a variety of honey, candles, bath products and so much more. She's more than happy to share her knowledge about beekeeping and honey. If you have any questions - just ask away! You'll enjoy talking with her.

By this time, the aroma of grilled sausage enticed us to visit the Meat Crafters booth, where Mitch Berliner tempted us with a few samples of delicious sausages and meats. There was an awesome chicken basil sausage that we will be picking up on Sunday.

It would be impossible to mention all the wonderful products and vendors at the Bethesda Central Farm Market. Do yourself a favor, and check it out!

For more info on the Market: http://www.bethesdacentralfarmmarket.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Spreading the Message

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 19:48:00 +0000

Saturday was beautiful and sunny, and we spent the day meeting fun and interesting people at the Eastern Market in DC. Athough it was a little chilly for my taste, you could just feel the joy of Spring in the air!

So many of you have stopped by our Brand of the Free booth and we enjoy getting to know you and hearing your thoughts. We love your comments and input on our graphic tees, ranging from a chuckle to belly laughs, or either LOVING the design or "just not getting it".

Our goal at Brand of the Free is to provide you with cool tee designs that communicate subtle messages that promote conversation. It is also important to us to offer you the choice to purchase American made, 100% organic cotton - a choice that is eco-friendly and supports the American worker. More and more we are hearing from you that these choices are important to you, too.

One mom that we met just touched my heart. Her daughter was having a slumber party, and she wanted to get some eco-friendly shirts for the girls. She purchased four "New Growth" shirts, each in an individual bag to give out. What a great idea! The girls will have soft, organic cotton tees to remember their sleepover, and they will be wearing a shirt with a positive message. It really made me think about how the message is getting out there - one person at a time, sharing an idea or thought about who they are and what they choose to support.

Please leave a comment, to let us know your thoughts of ways to get the message out.

Maybe you have your own ideas for shirts or events that you would like to discuss. Always feel free to email or call.

What's important to you? It's time to let the world know.

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to become a Facebook Fan

California Fashion Boutique for Swappers

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:47:00 +0000

How many times have you looked at those certain pairs of fashionable shoes, or that "perfect" dress in your closet, that you never seem to wear? You keep telling yourself that you need to sell it or give it away, but it continues to sit in your closet, untouched.

Guess what - now there is a fun and eco-friendly option with a twist. Give + Take is a boutique in Southern California, owned by Dora Copperthite. The twist is, you don't need money when you are shopping in this boutique. All it takes is a $20 monthly membership fee, and you can swap as much as you want. It all works with a point system. When you bring in clothes/accessories to swap, you are awarded points based on current value. You can then use your points to "shop" in the boutique.

What a great idea! Not only is swapping a brilliant idea for your closet and budget, it is an innovative way to reduce/reuse/recycle. How fun to have a boutique available to you, where you can shop for a new outfit by swapping pieces from your own closet!

Kudos to Dora Copperthite and Give + Take for such a genius (or shall I say greenius) idea!

For more info: http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/beauty-fashion/blogs/eco-fashion-boutique-for-swappers#comment-21804

Http://www.giveplustake.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Pass it On

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:02:00 +0000

Today is already the first day of March. Wow, how did THAT happen? Although I still see some wintry snow piles outside my window, the sun is shining bright, and I found a surprise this morning. Tulips are pushing their way out of the ground in my garden. Joy, joy, joy! That got me to thinking about Spring, life, and change.

At Brand of the Free, we strive to support companies that offer American made products, doing our part to help keep American workers earning a fair wage. Each day, we work on becoming better stewards of this great earth that we've been blessed with. It's all about seeking new ways to learn and grow, and then making small changes every day that will lead to commitment and new, positive habits. Sometimes it feels very overwhelming, and a person can't help but wonder if one person matters at all.

Well, I believe that each person's decisions and actions matter in a BIG way, because together we have the power to impact and change our world.

I came across a wonderful website, called Values.com - The Foundation for a Better Life. You may have seen some of their inspirational commercials on tv. Their mission statement is as follows:

The Foundation for a Better Life creates public service campaigns to communicate the values that make a difference in our communities - values such as honesty, caring, optimism, hard work, and helping others. These messages, communicated utilizing television, billboards, radio, internet, etc., model the benefits of a life lived by positive values. The Foundation encourages others to step up to a higher level and then to pass on those positive values they have learned. These seemingly small examples of individuals living values-based lives may not change the world, but collectively they will make a difference. And in the process help make the world a better place for everyone. After all, developing values and then passing them on to others is the Foundation for a Better Life.

What better way to change our world?

Please take some time to learn about The Foundation for a Better Life, and read some wonderful stories written by people just like you. Then feel free to pass it on!

http://www.values.com/

Brand of the Free
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Help Dig the U.S. Out of Financial Crisis

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:26:00 +0000

From talking with so many of the people we meet, it is clear that more and more Americans are deeply concerned about our country's current economic crisis.

Many American companies offering products that are made in the USA are struggling, mostly due to the fact that they can not match the prices of cheap labor/imports. What we are hearing, is that American consumers want to take action by supporting American companies and American workers. But let's face it - sometimes it's extremely difficult to actually find those American made products when out shopping for the things we need.

Wouldn't it be nice if you can go to a site that directs you to American made products in an easy and organized way? Well, we've found such a site!

Dig U.S Out was launched in December of 2009, as a search engine promoting American companies who manufacture 50% or more of their products in the United States. The company was created for one simple reason - to help put Americans back to work. They do not believe in relying on government to dig us out of our financial woes. Instead, Dig U.S. Out believes it is "we the people" who need to rise up to the occasion and act. One simple way we can help is to purchase more products made here in the USA by hardworking Americans, who are earning a fair wage. The site will help you find the American made products you are searching for.

Together we can Dig U.S. Out.

For more info on Dig U.S. Out and some great American companies, check out http:/www.digusout.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http:/www.brandofthefree.net/

Elegant and Bold Jewelry Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:21:00 +0000

You know the feeling - you are aimlessly browsing through some accessories and jewelry, and then you spot the designs you just can't resist. Something connects with your spirit and you feel as though the designer knew you when she created the pieces.

That's how I felt when I discovered Andrea D'Ambrosia Designs. Meeting Andrea at Crystal Couture last week was a pleasure. She is bold and fun, and also has a very elegant fashion sense. Her multifaceted personality carries over to her gorgeous one of a kind jewelry designs, many of which incorporate vintage brooches.

I love the fact that Andrea weaves vintage brooches into her collection. What better way is there to recycle a vintage piece than to create a beautiful marriage of the old and new? The result is stunning.

A. D'Ambrosia Designs is located in Alexandria, VA. Did I tell you that I love to shop local?

Check out Andrea's jewelry and accessories: http://www.andreadambrosia.com/
Shop online: http://www.andreadambrosia.etsy.com/
Contact: andreadambrosia@yahoo.com

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Discover “The Slow Cook”

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:30:00 +0000

Wow-I just came across the most interesting website. My quest for information on “real” and nutritious food leads me in so many directions, that sometimes the whole subject could be overwhelming. At the same time, the compulsion forces me to keep digging for as many “nuggets” that I could find. Well, I happened upon a goldmine!

Ed Bruske, of “The Slow Cook” is a former reporter for the Washington Post who believes in “self-reliance, growing food close to home and political freedom for the residents of the District of Columbia”.

He really pulled me in with his Manifesto:

“Enough of food fads! Enough of food porn! Enough of celebrity chefs (except Mario Batali)! It’s time to take back control of the food we eat and the pace of our own lives. Things should grow and cook in their own time. Reject fast food! Reject waiting lists at over-hyped, outrageously expensive restaurants! Reject food out of season! Sit, eat drink. Enjoy good food made by caring hands. Enjoy food eaten slowly, in good company.”

Thanks to Ed Bruske for all of the wonderful information that he has made available on “The Slow Cook”. It will take a while for me to dig through all of the info there, including recommended cooks, links, food writers, movies, recent articles, and archived blogs, and I will enjoy every minute of it!

Check out “Tales from a D.C. School Kitchen”. Eye opening info! http://www.theslowcook.com/2010/01/21/tales-from-a-d-c-school-kitchen-part-three/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://brandofthefree.net/

Bask in the Sunshine of the Eastern Market

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:29:00 +0000

Looks like the sun will be shining on the Eastern Market DC this Saturday! It’s going to be a great day for strolling along, appreciating some long awaited warmth while perusing the produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods that the market has to offer. And who could resist checking out the latest offerings from very unique vendors – a vast array of jewelry, art, photography, hand made knitted hats and scarves, graphic tees, vintage linens and furniture…the list goes on and on.

It’s hard to fully describe the Eastern Market…it’s a warm, cozy combination of aromas, sights, sounds and some of the most interesting people around. We look forward to seeing some of our old friends. For those of you, who have never attended the Eastern Market, plan to come and see what you’ve been missing! We’ll be looking for you!

Eastern Market Info: http://www.easternmarketdc.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Fun Fashion at Crystal Couture 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:09:00 +0000

Brand of the Free is SO looking forward to the 2010 Crystal Couture experience in Crystal City, VA, February 1-6! Last year we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, mingling with fashion designers, artists, fashionistas, models, and all of the interesting and wonderful people we met. We look forward to spending some time with good friends, and meeting many new ones!

Crystal Couture is a trendy, creative event, transforming some available retail space into a nightclub atmosphere. There’s lots of fun to go around, including runway shows, open bar, free snacks, free makeovers, local DJs, dancing, and more!

This year, Bianca Richardson, finalist from America’s Next Top Model will appear, and there will be a t-shirt and design competition, selected by audience vote.

Don’t miss Brand of the Free designs on the runway! It’s going to be a very cool week!

For more info: http://www.crystalcity.org/item/fun-fashion-comes-to-crystal-city-update

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

The Dirty Dozen: Top 12 Foods to Eat Organic

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:40:00 +0000

For those of you who know me, you are aware of the thought that goes into most everything I eat. I say "most" because I am not perfect, and my quest for clean, healthful food is sometimes overshadowed by a craving, or maybe making the decision to eat something - usually in a restaurant - that I know is laden with chemicals. The one thing I can share with you, is that I feel wonderful when eating natural, "clean" foods. When I make poor eating decisions, my body suffers for it, and I experience painful and frustrating symptoms. Needless to say, one of my goals in life is to make healthier food decisions, and to share anything I might learn along the way with those who tell me they are tired of "feeling like crap". What we eat is SO relevant to our overall health and the way we feel on a daily basis.

When trying to minimize exposure to toxic chemicals/pesticides, I believe it is always best to choose organic food. However, availablity and cost could limit choices. I've had so many friends ask me "Where do I start?" because it feels so overwhelming to them.

While doing some research, I came across TheDailyGreen and found an article that lists the top 12 foods to eat organic due to pesticide residue, and also 10 foods you don't have to buy organic. It's a good start to help you along your journey of wiser eating habits!

Take a moment to read some good info: The Dirty Dozen: Top 12 Foods to Eat Organic

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Sofas Designed and Built in the USA

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 20:18:00 +0000

When looking for furniture that is made in the USA, the search can be very frustrating, so I feel the need to share my “find” with you! I happened to be checking out the Made in USA Blog, and came across a sofa that was featured. The blogger purchased a sofa some years back from The Sofa Company, and they were so happy with it, they decided to order another one. The sofa looked pretty cool, so I read on…

The Sofa Company was started by three college friends who wanted to make the process of purchasing a sofa more enjoyable. Their motto is “you design it, we build it” and they promised to continue to innovate the selections available. They have showrooms in Pasadena, Santa Monica, Downtown LA, and a factory clearance center in Commerce and tout confidently that they offer the largest selection of styles, sizes, fabrics, legs, and sofa beds in the city. They also offer out of state delivery.

Now for the really cool part…you select the style, fabric, color and accessories to build the sofa of your dreams! You are an integral part of the building process, so you end up with the exact sofa that you want – you do not have to compromise according to what a company might be stocking at the time.

Want to see more? Go to http://www.thesofaco.com/ and check them out!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Vapur Solves Bottled Water Dilemma

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:37:00 +0000

If you have been looking for an American made, reusable, BPA free water bottle, your search is over! Vapur offers you a unique choice, designed to fit virtually anywhere!

Vapur has covered all bases, with a flexible bottle design that stands upright when full, and can be rolled, folded or flattened when empty. You can tuck it in your purse, pocket, backpack, or wherever! Freeze it, to use as an ice pack, and then drink while it thaws. An attached carabiner allows for easy carry, and there is even a writable text area for personalization.

The idea is simple – that clean tap water is the best drinking water for you, your community, and the planet. Vapur is committed to raising awareness of the global water crisis and to empower people to make a difference through their own drinking choices, hopefully eliminating the need for bottled water.

For more info, check them out at http://www.vapur.us/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Welcoming the New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Bernadette) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 17:03:00 +0000

It’s hard to say good bye to 2009 because it was a great year for us - we’ve met such wonderful people! We especially have enjoyed getting to know a lot of you at the Eastern Market in DC. It’s always a pleasure meeting face to face, although we also really appreciate our Facebook, Twitter and online friends!

Today, we would like to say thank you for your friendship and support! BOTF’s mission is to offer thought provoking designs while supporting American workers and businesses. It is also important to us to offer the choice of 100% organic cotton, which is grown in the USA. Through our conversations, you have shared your support for that mission and have also offered many suggestions and input. Please, keep it coming – we are listening!

We are looking forward to 2010 with excitement! New designs will be released and keep your eyes open for BOTF’s 12 shirt giveaway! More info to come!

Enjoy your New Year’s Eve celebrations….whether at home or out partying! Have a Wonderful, Happy and Prosperous New Year!!!!

Sincerely,

Joe and Bernadette Maluso