Eco-Diva

Hey EcoDiva's...What's Your Message?

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 04:19:00 +0000

As the cold months of Autumn and Winter descend upon us, it's the perfect time to grab a warm cozy sweatshirt and bundle up with your honey bunny. For the sake of the environment and for your health, make sure the one you choose is organic. Make it even better with your own personal message. Here is a great little company called Cafe' Press Bingo Fashion which lets you design your own t-shirt, sweatshirt, and much more. They even carry organic options for babies and pets.

You can choose from some of the pre-made designs above, or create your very own. Check out the entire organic section & choose your favorite...I bet you can guess what mine will say.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Students Are EcoDivas Too!!

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:21:00 +0000

The EcoDiva blog has been listed as one of 100 Great Blogs for Green Students. I am thrilled to hear about all of the amazing programs around the country that have sprouted up at Universities focusing on green business, infrastructure, environmental sciences etc. The next generation is poised to save the human race and I am excited to be part of the future green movement.

I am honored to be part of this wonderful list of blogs and writers who share my passion for green in their own niche - this includes News, Fashion, Activism, Food and Diet, Design and Green Living (as well as others).

Enjoy the list, and make sure to pass along #49 (yours truly) with your friends:

100 Great Green Blog For Students

{Image Credit: WallyG}
Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Happy Hallow"green" To All You EcoDivas

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 03:53:00 +0000

Happy Green Halloween everyone. I hope your journey into the magical world of dress-up and imagination was as silly, fun and joyful as mine was. Here are some of my favorite images from my EcoDiva camera that I have snapped this past month - filled with harvest, warm cider, and LOTS of pumpkins, I couldn't ask for a better harvest season to share with my own little pumpkin, Mr. EcoDiva and my amazing friends...both on and off the inter-web ;).

I look forward to sharing my journey with you into the next snowflake filled dazzling winter glow. And I look forward to hearing from and learning from you as well. Cheers~!
xoxo
The EcoDiva ;)

What are your favorite images? E-mail me at theEcoDiva@gmail.com and I will share them in a future guest photos post.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

{Giveaway} Becoming a Raw Diva With Kristen Suzanne

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:06:00 +0000

The Raw Deal
Over the last year, I have become borderline obsessed (maybe not so borderline) with learning all about the amazing benefits of the raw food lifestyle. Much MUCH more than just a diet, the raw food lifestyle is a way of looking at food, your health and the world of nutrition that completely take everything you know about eating, and turns it upside down...then right side up again. Confused?? I was too.

When I first heard about the raw food lifestyle, my first response was "what about my hot bowl of soup? my roasted veggies? my GOD!! what will I do without the HEAT??" And truthfully, I still feel that way. What I've learned about going raw is that it is not an "all or nothing" adventure. There are no rules about it how you "must" do it, and like with any major dietary change, it's important that you learn about it before jumping into it 100%.

Over the last several months, I've introduced you to some of my favorite raw chefs and resources - Ani Phyo, The Boutenkos, Sarma Belngailis and Purely Delicious Magazine. If you are ready to learn more about this incredible way of eating, which I am addicted to, here is your chance to jump in feet first.

The Raw Diva
Thanks to Kristen Suzanne, Raw Food Chef, author and spokesperson, I have three incredible books to give away to my fabulous readers. The first giveaway begins with this post. Here is a bit about Suzanne from her bio:
"Kristen Suzanne is an accomplished Raw food chef and former competitive bodybuilder. Through radio, television, books, classes, and her blog and email newsletter, Chef Kristen Suzanne helps people live life to the fullest with the healthiest cuisine in the world."

The Raw Book
The first book ready for your hot little hands is titled Kristen's Raw - The Easy Way to Get Started & Succeed at the Raw Food Vegan Diet & Lifestyle.

"Unlike Raw recipe books, this one-of-a-kind Raw Lifestyle guide provides expert advice and super easy tips and tricks for changing your habits and succeeding with the world's healthiest diet. You'll learn what to expect physically, what to expect emotionally, how to get started, how to handle cravings, how to order in restaurants, how to travel, how to handle questions from friends and co-workers, and how to deal with family members or introduce them to the Raw food lifestyle. In this friendly, funny, candid, and sometimes shockingly irreverent volume, Chef Kristen becomes your best friend, Raw food guide, and mentor, helping to ensure your success in what promises to be one of the most physically and mentally rewarding journeys of your life."

To Enter Simply do the following:

1 - Leave a comment about why you want to learn about raw foods AND

2 - Tell me what Kristen's very cool career was in her 20's

Extra Entries {let me know which you did by leaving a comment}:

* Share this giveaway on Twitter and follow @theEcoDiva
{you can tweet daily, just remember to leave a comment each time you tweet.}

* Share this giveaway on Facebook

* Add theEcoDiva to your blogroll.

* Follow this blog

* Email a friend about RAW {Giveaway}

One Winner will be chosen by Random.org and announced November 15th, 2009.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Not Your Everyday Organic Cotton Bag...by GreenOne Ventures

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 03:02:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of meeting GreenOne Venture s founder, the passionate and lovely diva Melissa Blythe. Here is a bit about Melissa in her own words:

"My journey to Green[One] began at a very early age growing up in Rural Ontario. More out of necessity than a moralistic or environmental concern, my parents were green before green was cool.

I believe it’s the small choices we make every day that make the biggest difference to our health, our families, and ultimately our planet. Choosing conscious products (organic, local, fair trade, live food) is a critical part of the path, although I think the most profound impact we can have on our environment is to start from within: live out our dreams and passions, BE our unique expression, and BE a positive force in the world.

Being an avid traveler, and having lived in numerous places in Canada and in the UK, I was inspired to design bags with a style and functionality that works no matter where in the world we are. There is a moderness and simplicity to European style that I love, along with the utilitarian considerations in design. I wanted to combine these elements to create bags that would express individual style and allow us to carry out our busy lives with ease and simplicity.

I think it’s very exciting that GreenOne bags were born out of a necessity for a stylish alternative to plastic bags, and have ended up being one of the coolest, most functional and accessible carry-all’s on the planet!"

The certified 100% organic cotton bags from GreenOne Ventures are beautifully crafted, roomy and truly beautiful. I LOVE the side pockets just perfect for my favorite bottle of organic wine. The handles are thick and sturdy, as well as long enough to carry sling over my shoulder. Check out the beautifully designed organic cotton bags and t-shirts today.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Greet Winter Winds...In EcoDiva "Swap It" Style

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 04:10:00 +0000

As I opened my door this beautiful Autumn morning, I could feel the blustery winds of the Pacific Northwest blowing past me. This is my fourth winter in this region and I am starting to truly get the hang of finding the balance between staying true to my inner EcoDiva while being comfy enough to run after my (cuter-than-the-average bear) toddler. The key is.....drum-roll......accessories!!!

As divas who realize the impact of buying more STUFF, we can't simply go out and buy a new wardrobe each season, even if is it from a consignment shop or thrift store. One of the best way to a new seasonal look is to switch out a few key accessories with your diva buddies. I'll bet you 10 dark chocolate bars that you have at least one buddy who has a scarf that you covet, and that buddy might just love yours as well. Go ahead and set up a seasonal swap:

Step 1 - Invite your best buds

Step 2 - Tell each diva to bring 2-3 winter accessories - gloves, scarves, hats, even coats...etc.

Step 3 - Pop open a bottle of organic wine, and let the swapping begin

And ladies, let's all please be civil. If there are a few highly coveted pieces, you can do what I tell my toddler to do..."you can take turns". Where a piece for one month, then swap again. I bet you'll get into it and discover other categories of items you would like to swap out each season.

{Images Courtesy of smittenkittenorig}

Have your own ideas for Greeting Winter in EcoDiva style?
Have you been swapping with your diva friends?
I'd love to hear about it in the new "diva thoughts" section below.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Are You A West Coast Green Blogger?

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 19:06:00 +0000

If you or someone you know writes about environmental issues and lives in Los Angeles (or just likes to travel) join EcoStiletto at Environment Furniture, located at 8126 Beverly Boulevard, on November 6th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., where Green Works Natural Cleaning Products presents the first-ever Green Blogger Convention.

From 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. you’ll meet and greet other green bloggers, writers and editors, while you sip organic Cafe de Olla and nibble piping hot churros from the Border Grill Truck and enjoy first-come, first-served sustainable beauty treatments from Steam Salon, mini-makeovers from Terra Firma Cosmetics and polish changes by Sheswai Lacquer. Thirsty? Water is provided by NIKA, which donates all proceeds to communities in need.

Fabulous EcoDiva Panel

From 10 a.m. to 11:30 discuss the past, present and future of green blogging with a panel that includes:

Kim Barnouin, co-author of New York Times Bestseller Skinny Bitch and founder of HealthyBitchDaily.com.
Starre Vartan, environmental journalist, editor and publisher of Eco-Chick.com and author of the site’s companion book, “The Eco Chick Guide to Life: How to Be Fabulously Green,” who also writes for the Huffington Post, The Daily Green and Greenopia.
Jen Boulden, co-founder of IdealBite.com.
Jane Buckingham, trend forecaster and president of Trendera.com, founder of CA’s The Intelligence Group, author and host of “The Modern Girl’s Guide to Life” books and series on the Style Network.
“Green LA Girl” Siel Ju, contributing editor to BlogHer.com, blogger for MNN.com and Lime.com, and former editor of the Los Angeles Times’ environmental blog, Emerald City.
Lauren Selman, founder & producer of Reel Green Media & “Sustainable Sirens;” associate producer of EcoDivas” TV.
Rachel Lincoln Sarnoff, founder & editor of EcoStiletto.com.

From 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. take in a Vegan Fashion Show featuring sustainable designs from ecoSkin, Doie, Deborah Lindquist, Stewart + Brown and Wasteland.

Space is limited; here’s the link to register: http://www.ecostiletto.com/index.php?/site/green_blogger/

{Product Review} Organic Essence Shea Cream

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 02:58:00 +0000

Submitted by the fabulous Eco Mama

It's that time of year where you really start looking around for lotion. At least I do. But a decent body cream, that's truly organic and free of toxic chemicals is not an easy thing to find. Organic Essence is a super eco friendly company (their biodegradable packaging is unheard of) that makes the most luxurious body products that really are good for you and the earth. Their Vanilla Orange Shea Butter Cream completely fits the bill with its comforting smell and yummy texture.

Shea Butter comes from the African Karite Nut and is known for its healing properties. Organic Essence Shea butter (the key ingredient in the cream) is hand made by a group of women in Ghana who literally crack open the nuts, cook them, and grind them into a paste in a centuries old process. Traditionally the paste is formed into balls and carried in hand made baskets.

Organic Essence Shea butter is ethically sourced and supports 600 women in Ghana with fair trade wages. If a fraction of body care companies were this responsible and green, it would have a huge impact on the earth and its inhabitants. Organic Essence is setting a wonderful example and by supporting them we can encourage other companies to follow suit.

It is just a little spendy for my budget (though ridiculously cheap when you consider what goes into it), so I've been wondering how I'm going to continue my habit. I recently spotted it on LuckyVitamin.com at a pretty big discount, so I will be using this all winter long. A little goes a long way, so even if you pay full price, I think it's still a great value. Their lip balm is also fantastic, so check that out too.

Enjoy!

Weekend Etsy Find - Handmade Halloween Costumes

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 02:34:00 +0000

Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays. Not so much for the candy (I could take it or leave it - I'm more of a dark chocolate diva), but for the chance to transform into something oh so completely different from my daily life. Here is a brief rundown of some of my past outfits:

7yrs old - the mom from the Adam's Family - my mom handmade the black floor length gown with extra long sleeves, my black hair, plus some white face powder and blood red lips...I looked FABULOUS and totally SCARY.

8yrs old - same as above - I know, not very original but very loyal and thought my idea was brilliant.

9yrs through 11 yrs - Cindy Lauper - think orange hair, striped tights, lots of bracelets...and gum popping as I alternated between "girls just wanna have fun" and "time after time"

12yrs old - not sure exactly what I was but my mom handmade a silver jumpsuit and most of my classmates though I was a female martian...still as I look back, I'm not sure what I was thinking on this one.

The thing I remember most about each Halloween was that I was totally original and that my mom handmade my costume each year. It didn't take all that much time or effort, but it was burned into my memory. As you think about creating memories this year, think about skipping the store bought synthetic junk and creating an original idea Halloween get-up. If you don't have time to cut and sew yourself, check out some of these creative Etsy finds to get spooky, sexy or silly for Halloween:

This first Etsy find is a fabulous little accessory that will instantly transform you into a Halloween Diva. You can easily wear this one to the office to turn up the celebration. The Etsy artist NevaPlume uses vintage jewelry to adorn each original handmade piece. Check out her entire collection here. She even created sweet feather pieces for the little divas in your life.

Skip the toxic plastic masks and go for one Reimagined Musing's original up-cycled masks whose creations are made from nearly all recycled, up cycled or salvaged materials. She even " specializes in fine junk mail creations!"

I simply had to include this tutu in my list. Mostly because, well, tutus are fabulous, flirty and fun. And why should five year old girls have all the fun? This little number is made by hand by Etsy artisan Zachary Dickory Dock and even comes with an antennae. And yes, she makes tutus for sweet babes as well.

Whether you are dressing up or simply handing out tricks & treats to local kiddo goblins, please take time to green your Halloween.

If you are thinking about alternatives for filling those pumpkins with sugary treats, check out my fabulous sister-in-law and her incredible mom Lynn's site GreenHalloween.org. You'll find great ideas on everything from tricks & treats to celebration ideas.

{Top Image Courtesy of MyDearDelilah on Flickr.com}

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

FRESH - The Ultimate Live-Food Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 22:19:00 +0000

Guest post submitted by the amazing Eco Mama. I was so excited to read this post. I discovered the Boutenkos several years ago with their amazing book Green Smoothie Revolution. It literally changed the way I cooked (or didn't), ate and fed my family. Here is the another wonderful recipe book complete that promises to be another winner. Can't wait to try this one.

You better have some free time when you pick up this book, because it's hard to put it down. Just like their mother, Victoria Boutenko, Sergei and Valya have a way with words. Both talk about their journey to raw foods, and tell the story of how they were able to reverse life threatening medical problem and go on to thrive. They discuss challenges like how to eat raw while traveling, how to get children interested, and maintain a healthy diet in a world where that's not always so easy.

The Boutenkos are so far ahead of their time in nutritional wisdom, but draw from the oldest and most simple, instinctive knowledge. Once they point to it, it's as plain as day and you wonder, how did we ever get so far away from this?

The first quarter of the book is full of insight and information. The rest is comprised of recipes that are accessible and loosely written as to encourage experimentation. At one point they talk about how odd it is that we even need recipes with measurements to consume raw foods. How is it we are the only species who don't know instinctively how and what to eat?

This book is thought provoking and filled with great ideas for yummy food. There are some beautiful photos, but not that many. Normally I like my cookbooks to have a photo accompanying each recipe, but this book is so rich that it didn't bother me. Maybe the Boutenkos will one day do a hardcover traditional photo laden (un)cookbook? I look forward to more from this knowledgeable, inspiring family!

{Product Review & Coupon Code} HollyBeth's Natural Luxury

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 03:36:00 +0000

Who Is HollyBeth
From HollyBeth.net: As a little girl – during long walks in the woods with her Grandmother – HollyBeth began a lifelong affair with the natural world.

She learned that flowers, trees and herbs had names – and uses. She discovered that ordinary looking plants could be made into scented soaps, aromatic teas and flavorful salads.

All the products on these pages start – and end – with simple, easy-to-pronounce natural ingredients. Just as her grandmother would have made them.

Some Of The Products I Reviewed

Rose & Geranium Face Moisturizer - $30 This moisturizer is made from 98.7% organic ingredients. The consistency is really beautiful, thick and creamy. I am normally not a big fan of anything that smells like roses (except for actual roses), but this product leaves behind such a soft and airy smell that I found myself smelling my hands several times after applying the moisturizer. I love the Vitamin E for it's natural positive effects on skin.

Ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil (organic sweet almond oil), Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Water, Beeswax, Tocopherol (organic vitamin E), Pelargonium Graveolens Oil (organic rose geranium oil), Rosa damascene (rose essential oil), Pelargonium Graveolens, (organic geranium oil), Sodium Borate (borax), Lecithin (organic lecithin), Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Dehydroxanthan Gum.

Citrus Body Cream $22 - I really enjoyed this velvety smooth cream on my feet, knees and elbows as a soothing way to end each day. The rich cream is not laden with heavy smells, but leaves behind a hint of citrus. It reminded me of spending time in a beautiful spa after a heavenly massage treatment. This is an easy luxury spa product (which is one of the places you will find this wonderful line of products).

Ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (organic sweet almond) Oil, Water, Beeswax, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (organic bergamot essential oil), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (organic orange oil), citrus medica limonum (organic lemon) peel oil, Litsea Cubeba (organic litsea Oil), Melaleuca Alternifolia (tea tree) Leaf Oil, Sodium Borate (borax), Lecithin (organic lecithin), Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Dehydroxanthan Gum.
Eye Cream - $30 - With 99% Organic Ingredients, this was one of my favorite products. I am very choosy about the eye cream I use. I find most eye creams on the market to be too heavy and sticky to use on a daily basis. This eye cream was luxurious and rich, as described, yet I never felt as if it clogged my pores.

Ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (organic sweet almond) oil, water, beeswax, Tocopherol (organic vitamin E), sodium borate (borax), Lecithin (organic lecithin), citric acid, potassium sorbate, Dehydroxanthan Gum.

What I Love

Most products made with at least 95%Certified Organic ingredients
Short list of easy to read ingredients
All glass jars and aluminum lids are recyclable
Beautiful recyclable packaging - which is SFI certified (sustainable forest initiative)
Made in USA
Use local & organic suppliers who practice Fair Trade

What's Missing

No fillers and No chemical preservatives -(this means the product should be used within 18 months after opening)
Never tested on animals

Wanna Try? Coupon Code For You

HollyBeth and her PR diva, Laura have graciously offered theEcoDiva readers a 15% off coupon code valid through the end of November 2009. Look for the details below.

Learn more about HollyBeth's products at HollyBeth.net and visit her fun and informative blog for an inside scoop on Holly Beth, an uber-talented Diva of organic beauty.

EcoDiva Reviewed Product Line: HollyBeth's Natural Luxury

15% Off Coupon Code: EcoDiva15

Expiration Date: November 30th 2009

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Help the EcoDiva Become the Next Green Girl!!!

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 03:53:00 +0000

Voting is NOW OPEN!!!

Please take a moment and go HERE to vote-please make sure to choose the full FIVE stars...as this is a rating system. You don't need to complete ANY personal info...simply vote and tell a few friends...THANK YOU!!!

I'll keep you posted on the results. The Top Ten Finalists will be notified on October 17th...crossing my fingers!!!

****************

Here's my essay and a little about my passion and journey in spreading the work about the importance of choosing organic and reading labels. I hope you'll vote for me this week at ProjectGreenSearch.com:

Since the age of 15 I have been on an amazing journey of discovery and learning about the world we live in and my impact on resources. My family came to the Unites States when I was 5 years old. The one running theme since I can remember has been that the US is a place of endless resources and power. It was easy to buy into this with everything that I saw around me as a child.

Growing up in NYC, the number of people, cars and stuff being consumed each day never ceased to amaze me. I always wondered ‘where does all this stuff come from, and would it just keep coming endlessly?’

Now, as the mother of a small child, who has traveled from Russia to NY, to
California, and now landing in the Pacific North West, I can see that the
resources will not just keep coming. That it is up to each of us to care of our own little circle of influence and to try each day to take steps in the right direction.

Today, my daily fuel and my passion is to empower other women to make informed choices in their daily lives from mascara to bedding.

Recently my family has lost a dear friend to ovarian cancer. Another cousin is battling breast cancer. My own mother has now been diagnosed with skin cancer.

Each of these women works with products that are riddled with toxic chemicals that have yet to be banned by the FDA. Two of these women have been in the the beauty industry for over 20 years. The very industry that promises to make us beautiful and more youthful, is slowly making us sick.

My mission is to show women another way. This is what I write about each day on my blog. This is what I talk about with the women in my life. I am living proof that you can be sexy, stylish and choose eco-friendly and non-toxic options for yourself and your family. I don’t need to scream it to the world from a soap-box – but I would love the chance to show how I walk my path, peacefully, and try to set an example each day with each choice I make.

I am not perfect, but I am ready to share my journey and get you moving towards green & gorgeous to become the EcoDiva in your own life.

I would be honored to have the opportunity to become the Green Model and represent this amazing move towards a healthy more sustainable future in beauty and fashion.

Thank you!

Signing off...EcoDiva

{Product Review} Simple Shoes = Cozy Luxury

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 04:53:00 +0000

Eco-Friendly LAYabout Slippers

Submitted by my the fabulous EcoMama of Eco Mama's Guide To Living Green

Slipper weather is here! Time to slip on something warm to keep those tootsies toasty. I have just discovered the cutest slippers ever and they're eco-friendly to boot. Simple Shoes LAYabout slippers are so cool you'll want to wear them everywhere. They're charcoal gray with burgundy accents and buttons made of coconut (they come in other colors too). Organic fleece cotton lining and the over the ankle bootie style makes them warm and comfy. The picture is cute, but they're even better looking in person and are flattering on the foot. Sustainable, adorable, and comfortable is the ultimate slipper trifecta--these slippers and a hot cup of tea and you're all set.

Simple Shoes are an environmentally responsible company down to their eco-friendly boxes. Using recycled materials like paper and soda bottles, water based (not petroleum based) glues, and natural latex foot-beds, they take great care to make sure their shoes are made with sustainable materials.

They're my new favorite shoe company, I wish I'd known about them sooner! You can check them out HERE.

Greet Autumn EcoDiva Style with ChooseSpun

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:16:00 +0000

Ethical luxury can mean something different to each person. For some, it's the luxury of simplicity and downsizing life in a way that makes room for what is important. For others, its making eco-conscious choices with each purchase and shopping trip. Either way, an EcoDiva knows the affect she (or he) has on the planet, her environment, and the future for each person spinning on this beautiful globe.

One designer who encompasses the EcoDiva philosophy at a price that is accessible to all EcoDivas is Sara Seuma, founder and designer of ChooseSpun.com. Here is a bit about Sara:

"A mother of two little girls, with no fashion design experience, creates an ideal collection.

In early 2007, shortly after the birth of her second daughter, Sara Seumae started on a journey. Her family had already been bitten by the ‘green’ bug and was quickly making changes in their diet and all other aspects of daily life. It only seemed logical to take that next step into organic clothing. But Sara was not ready to make any concessions when it came to her personal style. She also needed to figure out a way to find quality organic clothing that wouldn’t break her family budget.

Sara threw herself into the idea, spending time exploring the organic clothing market beginning in her hometown of Seattle, Washington and expanding across the world. Much to her surprise, she could not believe that what she was looking for was not available. Surely she couldn’t be the only woman out there with this need.

While trying to explain this desire to her parents, her father interrupted her with a story. He began by reminding her that she was born about two years after her parents had married. Not knowing where this was going, Sara listened. He continued by telling her a little known secret. He had in fact started and closed eight different companies in those two years before finally succeeding at the company he owns today. Sara was shocked. He explained that entrepreneurship is in her blood. If she had a need that had yet to be filled, she needed to be the one to fill it. An idea was spun! Her father’s experience and his confidence in her success inspired the creation of SPUN clothing." read more about Sara here.

Check out the entire organic collection that embodies a classic sense and ease of style that will carry you beyond one trendy season. Fall/Winter Collection.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

{Book Review} Going Green and Raw Goes Sexy

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 06:11:00 +0000

Submitted by my the fabulous EcoMama of Eco Mama's Guide To Living Green

Living Raw Food, by Sarma Melngailis, is a collection of recipes from her restaurant, Pure Food and Wine in New York, and boy do I want to have dinner there.

I could hardly put this book down. I read it pretty much cover to cover, savoring the pictures, nutritional facts and little stories preceding each recipe. Sarma's tone is conversational, down to earth and very reassuring for people like me who are just starting out with more complicated raw food dishes.

She is a professional chef trained at the New York French Culinary Institute and knows what she is doing. Sarma makes a great point that there are difficulties and challenges in conventional cooking, and says raw food preparation is actually no harder than traditional cooking, if not easier in many ways. I felt my intimidation regarding raw cuisine fade away to be quickly replaced by excitement.

Remember a while back I said I wasn't ready to buy a dehydrator? Well, the photos in this book are so enticing I want to make the recipes, and some require a dehydrator. So guess what? I bit the bullet and got one! There are many recipes that don't, but to fully use this book--and you will want to when you see the food--you need one. If you think about it, it's not much different from buying a mixer or some other piece of kitchen equipment.

I should say that I don't have ambitions to become a raw foodist (yet). Right now I probably eat about half raw, because I love the food. I'm also mindful of getting nutrients and just don't feel right if I don't eat green every day. As much as I love the plant kingdom, I want to expand my repertoire. Living Raw Food has really motivated me to take that next step.

There is learning curve, but that's actually part of the adventure. I am completely inspired by this book, I can't wait to dig into the recipes and explore the world of raw food on the next level.

There are plenty of recipes that don't require the dehydrator. Salads, juices, and smoothies for instance. The Cilantro-Pineapple Shake is wonderful. I'm happy to discover creamy smoothie recipes that don't center around bananas. Not that I don't like bananas, but you can get a little burnt out on the kale-banana-fruit combo (my standard). You'll find soups, sauces, appetizers, main dishes, ice cream, cake, cookies, bars, and cocktails featuring sake and biodynamic wine. It's a feast.

After finishing this book, I felt like giving Sarma a big hug and thanking her for inspiring me and giving me that last little push I needed to get started. I went to her website to check out her online store, oneluckyduck.com, and blog. There she generously and humorously talks about her struggles, but what is more apparent to me is what she's been able to accomplish. More power to her.

EcoDiva Goes Raw...Here's How It All Began

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 04:43:00 +0000

My good friend Leah from Eco Mama's Guide to Living Gree n introduced me to Victoria Boutenko's Green For Life several years back and it literally changed my life. Here is the newest book from Victoria and a little about the background of green smoothies, submitted by Eco Mama.

One of my favorite books is GREEN FOR LIFE, by Vicoria Boutenko. This book had a big effect on me, convincing me for the first time in my life to eat kale. I always tried, but never liked it and only ate it dutifully and smothered with earth balance when I did. Green For Life taught me to put leaves of raw kale in my blender with fruit for an ultra nutritious beverage/meal. I got that book two years ago and green smoothies have been a big part of my life ever since and for that I'm grateful to Victoria.

Her latest effort, GREEN SMOOTHIE REVOLUTION, has about 150 recipes for those needing ideas. There are also many stories of how individuals were able to transform their health by the simple addition of green smoothies into their diet. Public health could be completely revolutionized by following Victoria's advice, so I think it's an apt title.

After two years of green smoothies, I feel like I can't live without them. I often joke that if my house were on fire, the first thing I would grab after my son is the blender. You get hooked. My son loves them too, we drink them several times a week, and in the summer, at least once a day. Green smoothies are for everyone, not expensive, and she even tells you which greens you can find through foraging.

There is an interesting back story. Her family had some health issues the medical system failed to cure or even provide manageable care for. So she did a ton of research and her family transitioned to a raw food diet. Their health dramatically improved and then hit a plateau at one point. After doing extensive research on the chimpanzee diet, Victoria realized the missing link was greens. The story is fascinating, illuminating and very exciting. Why wasn't this obvious to all of us all along--it's so simple!

Green Smoothie Revolution stands on its own, but I would highly recommend Green For Life first. You don't have to be a raw foodist or even heading down that path. This is for everyone, and that's the beauty here, it's accessible to all. If you feel like you need to boost your nutrition levels or know anyone who is suffering from ill health or a chronic condition, these books could be potentially life changing. Highly recommended.

Ask The EcoDiva - What Is Greenwashing?

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0000

What is Green Washing? You asked, I answered. Here is a previous post I published for a great Canadian beauty website exactly one year ago today. Let me know what you think about this practice, and how it affects your shopping habits.

The last time I went shopping for my favorite make-up and personal care products, I found it a tad confusing to weed through the claims and the laundry list of ingredients on the box. Well, there is a reason. There are some amazing companies out there that make the process and ingredients in their products pretty darn transparent. With this extraordinary breed of company, I know exactly what I lather on, and ultimately into, my body. As for some other product manufacturers…slapping the word “natural” and a photograph of a butterfly in a meadow on a box does not make that shampoo any less loaded with harmful ingredients.

The term green washing was coined by suburban N.Y. environmentalist Jay Westerveld in 1986, in an essay regarding the hotel industry’s practice of placing green placards in each room, promoting reuse of guest-towels, ostensibly to “save the environment”. Westerveld noted that, in most cases, little or no effort toward waste recycling was being implemented by these institutions, due in part to the lack of cost-cutting affected by such practice. Westerveld opined that the actual objective of this “green campaign” on the part of many hoteliers was, in fact, profit increase. Westerveld referred to this and other seemingly environmentally-conscientious acts with a greater, underlying purpose of profit increase as green washing.

The term is generally used when significantly more money or time has been spent advertising being green (that is, operating with consideration for the environment), rather than spending resources on environmentally sound practices. This is often done simply by changing the name or label of a product, to help the consumer think of nature, for example putting an image of a forest on a bottle of harmful chemicals. Environmentalists often use green washing to describe the actions of energy companies, which are traditionally the largest polluters.

In December 2007, environmental marketing company TerraChoice gained national press coverage for releasing a study called The Six Sins of Green Washing, which found that 99% of 1,018 common consumer products randomly surveyed for the study were guilty of green washing.

Six Sins of Green Washing:

Sin of the Hidden Trade-Off: e.g. “Energy-efficient” electronics that contain hazardous materials. 998 products and 57% of all environmental claims committed this Sin.
Sin of No Proof: e.g. Shampoos claiming to be “certified organic,” but with no verifiable certification. 454 products and 26% of environmental claims committed this Sin.
Sin of Vagueness: e.g. Products claiming to be 100% natural when many naturally-occurring substances are hazardous, like arsenic and formaldehyde seen in 196 products or 11% of environmental claims.
Sin of Irrelevance: e.g. Products claiming to be CFC-free, even though CFCs were banned 20 years ago. This Sin was seen in 78 products and 4% of environmental claims.
Sin of Fibbing: e.g. Products falsely claiming to be certified by an internationally recognized environmental standard like EcoLogo, Energy Star or Green Seal. Found in 10 products or less than 1% of environmental claims.
Sin of Lesser of Two Evils: e.g. organic cigarettes or “environmentally friendly” pesticides, this occurred in 17 products or 1% of environmental claims.

The United States government has, in some major ways, dropped the ball when it comes to protecting consumers by regulating the products allowed onto market shelves. It takes about two clicks into the FDA.gov website to discover how much protection we have from toxic chemicals finding their way into our cosmetics—check out these two questions on the FDA Authority Over Cosmetics section of the FDA website.

Does FDA approve cosmetics before they go on the market?
FDA’s legal authority over cosmetics is different from other products regulated by the agency, such as drugs, biologics, and medical devices. Cosmetic products and ingredients are not subject to FDA premarket approval authority, with the exception of color additives. However, FDA may pursue enforcement action against violative products, or against firms or individuals who violate the law.
Who is responsible for substantiating the safety of cosmetics?
Cosmetic firms are responsible for substantiating the safety of their products and ingredients before marketing. Failure to adequately substantiate the safety of a cosmetic product or its ingredients prior to marketing causes the product to be misbranded unless the following warning statement appears conspicuously on the principal display panel of the product’s label:
“Warning: The safety of this product has not been determined.” (21 CFR 740.10)

Okay EcoDivas, this is a huge wake-up call. Right now, there is no eco-fairy-godmother hovering above us to monitor the products that are showing up on the shelves of your favorite store. It’s up to us to get educated on what products are good for us, and which products are slowly making us sick.

. . . . . . .

Related Sites:
Check out The Green Guide’s buying guide to help you weed through the not-so-green products and companies.

TreeHugger is a strong resource for all that is green, for green news, sustainable choices in all facets of life.

Since July 2003, Sustainablog has been providing information on environmental and economic sustainability, green and sustainable business, and environmental politics. The blog regularly features environmental leaders, experts in alternative energy and green technology, and real people trying to lighten their environmental footprints.

Article Resources:
Karliner, Joshua. A Brief History of Greenwash, CorpWatch, March 22, 2001.

The Six Sins Of Greenwashing – Misleading Claims Found In Many Products – From: Paul Schaefer, Environmental News Network – Published December 3, 2007 – To download a copy of the Six Sins of Greenwashing Report, go to www.terrachoice.com and click on the “Six Sins of Greenwashing”.

. . . . . . .

Photo Courtesy of Marshall Flickman

{Giveaway} Ethical Luxury + Hand Sanitizer = Frais

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:16:00 +0000

With this crazy flu season approaching, and my little eco-toddler starting pre-school for the very first time there are a few things I carry with me at all times. Besides a lipstick, my cell phone and a Larabar for my son (peanut butter please) if you look in ANY purse or bag I carry at any time, you will ALWAYS find at least one small container of hand sanitizer.

I was very excited to find a company that combined the luxury of quality that I love with a hand sanitizer that doesn't make mt eyes water or my hands stinky.

What I LOVE About Frais Han Sanitizer:

The Smell is amazing. Made with Ginger, Tangerine, Lemon Myrtle, Niaouli, Orange, Basil, Grapefruit and Cardamom - both my eco-toddler and my eco-dude, LOVE the smell.
Evaporates quickly leaving your hands super soft.
Recyclable
Vegan
Cruelty Free

FIVE Of You Will Win One Of Your Very Own:
FRAIS EVERYDAY™ Flip Lid 1.7 fl. oz. (50ml)

Frais' popular mid-sized luxury hand sanitizer is a must. Frais Everyday is the perfect size for handbags or briefcases, to carry in the car and to share with friends at restaurants or parties. Feel protected everyday with a naturally moisturizing eco-friendly hand sanitizer big enough to take care of you and your friends.

Do One Of the Following and Leave a Comment on which you did:

1. Follow the EcoDiva blog

2. Visit Frais and tell me one benefit of any of the eight essential oils used in Frais Luxury Hand Sanitizer.

3. Don't forget to leave your e-mail address so I can let you know when you win.

{Additional Entries} with a separate comment for each thing that you do.

* Share http://www.frais.com.au/ Twitter and follow @theEcoDiva
{you can tweet daily, just remember to leave a comment each time you tweet.}

* Add theEcoDiva to your blogroll.

* Email a friend about the Frais Luxury {Giveaway}

5 Winners will be chosen via Random.org and announced October 10th.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Oh So Sweet Etsy Find

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 04:40:00 +0000

Each one-of-a-kind piece from this week's Etsy find is handmade created using new and recycled/re-purposed materials.

A bit about the talented designers 'whiteowl' in their own words:

We are two sisters who love vintage and appreciate handmade things. We have collaborated on everything from films to photographs to art and jewelry. Most of our materials are rescued from estate sales, flea markets and even our own Grandmother! It is important to us to try to use re-purposed materials as much as we can but we also love the mix of old and new.

And I am glad they did. These are some of the most original pieces I have seen.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Ingredients To Avoid Courtesy of SukiPure.com

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0000

One of my favorite organic skincare lines which quickly set the bar very high for any skincare line I review, SukiPure is a complete line of skin, body and haircare care products. The list of ingredients used in Suki Pure is completely transparent.
"the suki® philosophy of truth skin deep™ exposes the authentic purpose of our ingredients to our conscientious consumers. i believe in using the purest of ingredients & lead my suki® organic innovation lab™ through every step of the process. from selecting hand-chosen raw materials, to creating the suki® proprietary botanic concentrate™, to blending & pouring products in-house, to choosing environmentally responsible packaging, i have tirelessly tested formulation after formulation to bring 100% natural, results driven products to you."

The List

argireline: where botox injections target specific muscles, argireline targets the entire face. this may actually increase facial sag because the neurotransmitters this drug inhibits are what maintain facial firmness.

alcohol denat. (denatured alcohol): petrochemical by product. can cause systemic eczematous contact dermatitis & chemical sensitivities.

aluminum ingredients: skin irritants, can cause alzheimer’s, lung disease

ammonium ingredients: toxic, carcinogenic

bha & bht: cancer, encourages the breakdown of vitamins such as vitamin d, can cause lipid & cholesterol levels to increase, endocrine disrupter

bismuth oxychloride: a synthetically prepared crystalline powder used in cosmetics as a filler, & to bind other ingredients. the powder has to be forced into the pores, resulting in clogged pores or irritated skin.

bone black (d&c black #3): the fda determined that the color additive used in face powder, eye shadow & mascara safe despite noted low levels of potentially carcinogenic impurities present.

coal tar & lake dyes: look for cade tar or pine tar instead, low-level exposure is linked to cancer, allergic reactions, nausea, fatigue & skin problems

colorants (fd&c & other coal tar dyes): carcinogens, topical irritants, may cause acne & skin irritations, may contain aluminums, have caused tumors in rats, low-level exposure is linked to cancer

cocamidopropyl betaine: contains a significant petroleum component & can cause serious irritation & allergenic response

dea ingredients (all ingredients with dea after the first word): cancer

dimethicone (& other methicone ingredients): cancer suspect. caused tumors & mutation in lab animals

dioxin: powerful hormone disrupting chemical linked to cancer, nervous system disorders, miscarriages & birth deformity. stored in fat cells. contained in sulfates that provide foaming action.

dmae-dimethylaminoethanol: marketed as "face lift in a bottle," however, what it does is temporarily paralyze the small muscles of the face, making it seem like wrinkles are less visible. no long term results of application are yet known

idebenone: a synthetic analogue of coenzyme q10

emulsifying waxes (& the "fatty acids"): linked to the creation of free radicals & prostaglandin inhibitors

formaldehyde: inability to inhibit the growth of acid producing bacteria & it’s implication in cancer

fragrance: highly allergenic. contains large quantities of toxins & chemicals not disclosed. fragrance-free means that fragrance chemicals have been added to the product to mask the natural aromas of the ingredients

glycerin: look for vegetable glycerin. glycerin without the vegetable qualifier usually means petrochemical

glycerol stearate: linked to the creation of free radicals & prostaglandin inhibitors

grapefruit seed extract: synthetic preservatives triclosan, methylparaben & benzethonium chloride are usually added to preserve, however, companies do not have to list this ingredient since it is contained within the extract

hexane: very toxic solvent used to extract essential oils & botanicals

hydroquinone: toxic, irritant, banned in europe, can cause hyper-pigmentation, skin bleacher

imidazalidol urea: strong irritant, releases formaldehyde, toxic laureth family (ingredients with laureth, laurate or lauryl extensions): carcinogenic, skin irritants, may be contaminated with large amounts of toxins in manufacturing process, contains ammonium salts, mutagen, acne producing

matrixyl: is a new polypeptide. it is said that matrixyl is at least as effective against wrinkles as retinol. it is said to work by "relaxing facial tension", similarly to botox. we feel that repeatedly paralyzing the muscles can only sap their inherent strength.

methylisothiazolinone: antimicrobial agent inhibits the development of particular neuron structures that are essential for transmitting signals between cells. damaging to a developing nervous system

octyl stearate: acne producing, contact dermatitis, allergic reactions

paba: may cause formation of nitrosamines, cause photosensitivity (ironic)

parabens: petrochemicals, estrogenic, carcinogenic, allergenic

peg ingredients: carcinogenic, acne promoters, contact dermatitis

petroleum (petrolatum, mineral oils, vaseline): acne producing, may be carcinogenic, causes long term dry skin, respiratory toxin

phenonip: preservative blend of phenoxyethanol, methylparben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, propylparaben & isobutylparaben

phenoxyethanol: synthetic ether alcohol preservative. can cause contactdermatitis.

phthalates (esters of phthalic acid, such as dibutyl phthalate): derived from naphtalene, found in most conventional nail polishes, hair styling products, fragrances, squeezable plastics, soft plastic baby toys, baby wipes, electric isolation, jelly sex toys, cords & earphones of popular mp3 players. dangerous when heated. carcinogenic, endocrine disruptors that put you in higher risk for breast cancer, other hormone-related diseases, birth defects, allergies & testicular abnormalities in babies. not listed on products, hidden in ingredients such as synthetic fragrances & "fragrance free" products

pvp: widely used synthetic polymer, carcinogenic

stearic (acids, als, & others): carcinogens, skin irritants, comedogenic

hydroxymethyl glycinate: releases formaldehyde, a known cancer agent

talc: can contain asbestos, do not use on babies, linked to ovarian cancer, respiratory toxin

tea ingredients (not tea, but rather ingredients with tea in front): severe irritants, can contain ammonium salts, eye irritant, sensitizer, carcinogenic

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Please Help the EcoDiva Become the Next Green Girl!!!

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:24:00 +0000

Am I the next Green Girl??? I hope so, and you can help me spread the message about natural beauty, eco-conscious choices and the benefits of Ethical Luxury for us all.

Voting begins on October 12th...stay tuned.

Here is the amazing list of prizes that go to the winner:

If not yet represented, a contract with a top tier modeling & talent agency to provide representation for work in print, runway, film/video and television.
A professional photography session with fashion photographer Courtney Dailey, complete with organic make-up and sustainable designer clothing.
A 20 piece Eco-Fashion wardrobe.
A natural and organic beauty shopping spree at Future Natural.
Features, articles and covers in publications including Coco Eco Magazine, Organic Spa Magazine, Peppermint Magazine, E The Environmental Magazine, Chenille Magazine, Electrifying Times, Route 66 Pulse, and more tear sheets to build a portfolio.
Guidance and introductions by LOHAS to sustainable beauty, fashion and other companies.
A one year stint as the face of Project Green Search.

Here is my essay for the entry...enjoy!

Essay:

Since the age of 15 I have been on an amazing journey of discovery and learning about the world we live in and my impact on resources. My family came to the Unites States when I was 5 years old. The one running theme since I can remember has been that the US is a place of endless resources and power. It was easy to buy into this with everything that I saw around me as a child.

Now, as the mother of a small child, who has traveled from Russia to NY, to California, and now landing in the Pacific North West, I can see that the resources will not just keep coming. That it is up to each of us to care of our own little circle of influence and to try each day to take steps in the right direction.

Today, my daily fuel and my passion is to empower other women to make informed choices in their daily lives from mascara to bedding.

Recently my family has lost a dear friend to ovarian cancer. Another cousin is battling breast cancer. My own mother has now been diagnosed with skin cancer.

I am not perfect, but I am ready to share my journey and get you moving towards green & gorgeous to become the EcoDiva in your own life.

I would be honored to have the opportunity to become the Green Model and represent this amazing move towards a healthy more sustainable future in beauty and fashion.

I would be honored to receive your vote.

Happy Anniversary CocoEco Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:19:00 +0000

The first of its kind. A trendsetter and a new way of looking at beauty. A glossy fashion and beauty magazine that lives entirely online, paper-free, and is simply gorgeous. Founded by beautiful, eco-conscious editor Anna Griffin (check out my interview with Anna to learn more about this eco-diva), CocoEcoMag is making history while featuring the most beautiful eco-fashion and organic beauty from around the globe.

So grab your organic coffee or white tea, sit back and enjoy their one year anniversary issue filled with fall beauty and fashion...it's a feast for your eyes...CocoEcoMag.com.

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

Juice Beauty Organic Facial Mask {Product Review}

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Submitted by Guest Blogger EcoMama of EcoMamasGuidetoLivingGreen blog.

When I realized the body products I had been using---products from the natural foods co-op no less-- were full of toxins and carcinogens, I went on the hunt for products that would help my skin without hurting my body in the long term. This is no easy feat, there are not many USDA certified organic body products out there.

Luckily I have been able to find some excellent options. I have been using Juice Beauty for about a month and I do notice a difference. Part of that is that it's the first time in a long time I've taken the time to use skin care. Between being the mother of an extremely active four year old and not being able to find any decent products that I was willing to put on my face, I just stopped. What a luxury it's been to use Juice Beauty!

This mask makes my skin feel clean and soft and invigorated. I think I need a little more time to note whether it actually makes me look younger, but Juice Beauty says their products are clinically proven to reduce the effects of aging. This makes sense since they use antioxidant ingredients which scavenge free radicals--those pesky mutants that make us look older. Also, if you're not rubbing toxic carcinogens all over your skin, it's probably going to look better!

My skin is not tolerant of a lot of products--I don't like the feel of most skin care and generally can't wait to rinse it off. Not the case here. I think the problem before was all the chemicals I was unknowingly putting on my skin. It would feel heavy and stingy and cause rashes. Juice Beauty is gentle yet still feels like it's getting the job done. Kind of like a smoothie for your face.

I recommend Juice Beauty whole-heartedly. Just make sure you pick one that has the USDA seal if that is what you're after, as some of their products are not certified. If you just want to treat yourself with a little perk-up, or give a great birthday present--Juice Beauty Organic Rejuvenating Facial Mask would be an excellent choice.

Environmental Working Group Needs Your Helping Hand

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:37:00 +0000

One of the best resources out there for wading through the heaps and mounds of information on natural versus toxic personal care and beauty products for the entire family is CosmeticsDatabase.com. Created by the Environmental Working Group, this database is a cross-reference of products and ingredients which are rated by their health risk. This includes the latest information on

skin care
hair care
eye care
nail care
baby care
oral care
fragrance

"Skin Deep is a safety guide to cosmetics and personal care products brought to you by researchers at the Environmental Working Group."

Now, they need our help to keep the research into toxic chemicals current and available to you and your family. $5 can make it happen...Visit the Cosmetics Safety Database to help today.

{Image Credit: John-Morgan}
Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva

USDA Organic and Body Products

noreply@blogger.com (The EcoDiva) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 03:10:00 +0000

Submitted by Guest Blogger EcoMama of EcoMamasGuidetoLivingGreen blog.

We know enough to buy organic food. But what about Body Products? Here's the deal: if you wouldn't eat it, you probably don't want to put it on your skin. And if it doesn't have the USDA certification seal, it probably isn't really organic.

There is much abuse going on in the cosmetic and body care industry, using the word "organic" when it's nowhere near organic and should maybe have a warning label. Because of the lack of regulation in this area, a product can say "organic" and not have anything organic in it. As the folks at Terressentials say, without the seal, it's just a word on a bottle.

Your body absorbs as much or more through your skin than it does through your gut. When you rub carcinogens or neurotoxins on your skin, it's in your bloodstream within minutes. Physically these chemicals are affecting us immediately, individually and severely with dire illnesses. Collectively, these chemicals are killing us off as a species. Think I'm exaggerating? Watch the CBC documentary THE DISAPPEARING MALE to see just how serious this problem is. It's quite urgent that we get together and educate ourselves and each other and make some changes.

I've been buying what I thought were organic shampoos, soaps and lotions only to find out they were no where close to organic. Or there might be one organic ingrediant, but on closer inspection, also had carcinogens, like parabens (KISS MY FACE, AVALON ORGANICS to name a couple). It's so maddening! When I realized that my Kiss My Face shower gel had parabens I really felt betrayed. How could they? And how could stores like Whole Foods or the Co-op sell body care with carcinogens?? The farther into the rabbit hole I go, the more shocked and outraged I am.

Companies are using the word "organic" to make a fortune off consumers who think they are getting organic, when they're not. In my book, that is fraud. Legislation is under way as I speak to do something about this, but for the time being, consumers have to be extra vigilant about which products they buy. The OCC is a great place to start with their Coming Clean Campaign. I believe consumer awareness is the way to bring about change fast, look what happened with BPA.

There is a wealth of information on the OCC site, and Terressentials has a great, readable list of ingredients to be aware of. Just remember the next time you are shopping, if you want organic body care, make sure it has the USDA seal on it before you buy.