Organic with an Asterisk*

As a Mom I try to do the best for my child.  I have a pretty large organically grown garden in the backyard that produces most of our veggies.  For the items we don't or can't produce ourselves I buy Organic.

It seems like the best thing to do.  If something is marked "Organic", even "USDA Certified Organic" than you assume that is would be free from harmful chemicals, pesticides and genetically modified products.  Isn't that what makes it "Certified Organic"?

For alot of it, yes.  But when you discover that the DHA that is being put into "Organic" products is genetically modified and has no business being in there, well that  just pisses me off!

I mean really?  What happens when the supposed "safe guard" isn't really safe.

Here is what was written about the GMO DHA and how it made it into Organic products:

The Organic Consumers Association explains:

In 2009, a front page Washington Post article,“Integrity of Federal ‘Organic’ Label Questioned.”explained how Martek Biosciences’ synthetic DHA and ARA ended up in organic infant formula. In 2006, National Organic Program staff told Martek that its synthetic DHA and ARA couldn’t be used in organic because they were synthetic and not on the National List. But, Martek’s lawyer, J. Friedman, was able to get their decision reversed by NOP director Barbara Robinson, with just a call and an email. He told the Washington Post, “I called Robinson up, I wrote an e-mail. It was a simple matter.”…

The National Organic Program attempted to remedy this situation by requiring Martek to formally ask permission to use its DHA and AHA in organic. The petition came before National Organic Standards board, and surprisingly, the NOSB voted to continue to allow Life’sDHA and Life’sARA in organic.

The NOP and NOSB ignored evidence that Martek’s products should never have even been considered for use in organic in the first place. According to patents uncovered by the Cornucopia Institute, all of Martek’s DHA and ARA products are produced through genetic engineering, processed with volatile synthetic solvents and microencapsulated, three things that are expressly banned from USDA Organic.

You can protect your baby by making your own baby food or looking for food that does not contain DHA and ARA. DHA and ARA are important omega fatty acids found in breast milk, so long term breastfeeding insures your child gets them. The Cornucopia Institute explains how the chemical version cannot replace mother’s milk:

What is troublesome, however, is that some infant for- mulas contain DHA- and ARA-containing oils that are novel foods—extracted from laboratory-grown fermented algae and fungus and processed utilizing a toxic chemical, hexane. These algal and fungal oils provide DHA and ARA in forms that are structurally different from those naturally found in human milk…

These oils are produced by Martek Biosciences Corpora- tion and appear to be added to infant formula primarily as a marketing tool designed to convince parents that formula is now “as close as ever to breast milk.” Substantiating this the- sis is a Martek investment promotion from 1996, which reads as follows: “Even if [the DHA/ARA blend] has no benefit, we think it would be widely incorporated into formulas, as a market- ing tool and to allow companies to promote their formula as ‘closest to human milk [emphasis added].”1

So basically an email and a phone call was able to take away the safety net that "Organic" is supposed to give to parents trying to do the right thing.  


The worst part is that it is in baby formula's and baby food.  Earth's Best is supposed to be Organic.  


Here is a list of the Life's DHA products from their own website.  Try to avoid them is possible.


http://www.lifesdha.com/Products-Containing-lifesDHA-/Partner-Products/tabid/683/Default.aspx


If they are going to put something that is GMO in organic food than I think that they should have to mark it as so.  Organic* (this product contains a GMO).  They should have to put it out there so every consumer of organic foods knows what they are actually getting.  


People assume that if it is USDA Certified Organic that is completely safe.  Think again!  


I am so happy with my decision to breastfeed and make my own baby food, but what about the women who can't?  Why is it that now what you thought was the safest avenue to take isn't as safe as you thought.  


Where do you turn when "Organic" isn't enough to keep the garbage out of our food?  


Till next blog.......

Do You Know What's In A Candy Cane???

My husband came up with an idea for me to make Candy Cane ice cream.   Yes I do make homemade ice cream, and what I discovered in trying to make it shocked me.

Do you know what is in a Candy Cane?  I didn't until recently.  We went to the store and picked up a box of regular candy canes.  One the way home I decided to flip the box over and read the ingredients.  Corn syrup (which is now all genetically modified) and Red (dye) 40. Last time I checked not only is dye terrible for anyone, especially kids, but didn't they link red dye 40 to cancer??  WOW!  Then I researched further when I got home and discovered that the ingredient that makes the white so bright in a candy cane is Titanium Dioxide!  WHAT!?

Let's just say that the box of candy canes did not stay in my house and NO I did not make ice cream out of them.

You know me though, of course I found organic ones.  There are 2 brands that are very popular.  Pure Fun Organic Candy Canes  www.purefun.ca/products_candyCanes and Tru Sweets  www.trusweets.com.  Pure Fun are made with organic evaporated cane juice, organic brown rice, organic fruit juice and natural peppermint oil.  Tru Sweets are made with organic ingredients, corn syrup free, no artificial colors or flavors.  Both are certified organic by the USDA.

Oh, and I love the disclaimer:

DISCLAIMER: Due to the organic ingredients of these candy canes, the colors will NOT be bright white and red. They are muted colors. Titanium dioxide is required to make bright white.




They are a little bit more that the other candy canes, but so worth it.

Now I can make my homemade Candy Cane ice cream with all organic ingredients!!

Happy Holidays!

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Favorite New Item! Stainless Steel Toddler Dish Set

 I have found yet another new favorite item!

Untangled Living Anyware Stainless Steel Dish Set for Children

The set is made of high quality food grade stainless steel.  They are free of plastics, BPA, PVC, Phthalates, Lead and other harmful toxins.  Durable and dishwasher safe.

The 5 piece set includes plate, bowl, cup, fork and spoon.

They are so adorable also.  They come with either a butterfly or gecko design on them.

You can find them at www.untangledliving.com, or I also found them on Amazon.com.

What a great set for you child and toxic free!!!

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Favorite New Item! Stainless Steel Toddler Cups

I am always on the lookout for non-toxic, non-plastic items for my daughter.  In my recent quest to get her some toddler cups I have found something I love!!

The are kids stainless steel drinking cups.  Non-toxic, BPA free and durable!!  They are also inexpensive.

They are from Kids-Cups.com.  www.hic-cups.com/cups

Our Stainless steel cups are safe, sanitary, unbreakable, and dishwasher safe. These cups are light, strong, and most important, non-toxic and BPA free. They are safe and affordable. What’s your child's health worth to you?  How about less than $5 each!

Just when I thought I would never find a toddler cup since I do not use any type of plastic, I found these.  They are so easy for a child to use and safe for them to use as well!!  Hurray!!!

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Buying a Christmas Tree From a Local Tree Farm

This year when we started thinking about getting our Christmas Tree we decided to see if there was a local farm we could buy from.  Not only is the tree fresher than the ones that are shipped in from other states, but giving money to a local business is better for the community.

If you are in the Tampa area I highly recommend Ergle Family Christmas Tree Farm. www.ergletrees.com.

This place was incredible.  As we arrived we were greeted right as we entered by a very nice lady making wreaths.  She was making them with the tree clippings and had a machine that clamped the trimmings into the wire rack.  She allowed my 2 year old daughter to help her make our beautiful wreath.  She picked out the bow, pine cones and accessories.   It makes our wreath very special since my daughter was the one to put it together.

We then went inside to pick out our tree.  They have trees that are already cut and sitting in a stand of water to keep them fresh, or you can take a saw and head out to the trees on the farm and pick your own and chop it down.

We found a beautiful 11ft. tree.  The price was much less than what we would have paid at a "big name store" for a tree that size and it is the freshest tree we've ever had.  They put the tree into a tree shaker, which I had never seen, and the put it through the machine that wraps in with the webbing for the car ride home.

They were all so helpful and courteous.

They also have a little train for the kids to ride around on.  There was also a little petting zoo area with goats.

It was such an amazing experience.  It was such a blast for my daughter and made it really feel like Christmas!  We have found a new place that we will be going to for our Christmas trees from here on.

If your not in the Tampa area, search in your area for a local tree farm.  Anytime you can keep money in your local community is great, but you may also have a great experience you never expected!

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The Organic Birthday Cake & Cupcakes

For my daughter's second birthday I wanted her cake to be organic and have icing that was not made with dyes that could harm her.

Finding a bakery makes a cake like that where I live was not possible.  I honestly couldn't believe that something like that wasn't available.  Am I the only one who wants this for my child??  I realized if this is what I wanted I would have to make it myself.

My daughter told me that she wanted a pink cake and purple cupcakes.  Yes, I have a very opinionated 2 year old!  The cake and cupcake part was easy enough.  I just used all organic ingredients. The icing, was another story.

Using regular icing was not an option since they use synthetic dyes that are just not safe.


Synthetic dyes have been linked to a wide variety of health concerns including behavioral problems, hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and even cancers. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), an organization that advocates for nutrition and food safety, is calling for a ban on these synthetic dyes.   


My search brought me to India Tree Natural Decorating Colors.  They are sold at Whole Foods or go to indiatree.com to find a store in your area.

I bought the  3 pack of colors that come in Red, Yellow and Blue.  They are made from vegetable juice and contain no corn syrup or synthetic dyes.

I went on their website to get help on mixing the colors to make the pink and purple I needed.  It was like a science experiment to get the right colors, but in the end they were perfect.

The cake and cupcakes came out great!!  My daughter was thrilled.  It made me very happy to know that all the ingredients in the cake and cupcakes were organic and that the coloring was safe.

It was a great (Organic) birthday!!!

Till Next blog........

The Difficulties of Being The Green Mommy Of A Birthday Girl

My daughter's birthday is in a few days.  (I am still in denial that she will be 2!)  Being a Green Mom can be difficult for people trying to get her a gift.  Sometimes I feel like it might be easier on people if I just told them not to get her anything.  I see and hear their confusion of what they can actually get her.

I have certain things I do not want my child's toys to be.  I don't want them to be plastic, painted with toxic paints, or stuffed animals that are treated with chemicals to make them flame resistant.

Is that so hard?  YES!  It seems as though everything in the stores is something I don't want my daughter to have.  Oh wait, almost all of it is.  It would be so much easier if the people in charge of regulating what is safe for kids would actually do just that.

For those in the same boat as I am trying to find safe items, I have found some things that work.  I love Melissa and Doug products.  They are wooden and they use non-toxic paints.  They also have an amazing customer service.  TreeHaus is another brand of wooden items that I recently found.  They are BPA and Phthalates free.  One of the items that I LOVE that we got my daughter for her birthday is the Discovery Kids Cardboard House.  It is made of recycled paper and comes with a complete house design on the outside to be colored in. For stuffed animals miYim Organic stuffed animals are my favorite.

I know that as my daughter grows older and starts to understand what's available out there I will have to explain to her why we don't have what other kids have.  Thankfully her favorite thing in the world are her books and I hope that never changes!

It is difficult, but keeping the chemicals out of my daughter's life is so worth the hassle!

Till next blog.............

I Saved How Much On Diapers???!!!

Recently my almost 2 year old decided she wanted to start using the potty.  Well, after the potty books and videos I provided, she decided she wanted to use the potty.

We went to the store and bought the potty, actually two.  One was the Baby Bjorn potty seat.  It is PVC and BPA free plastic and the design is great.  The other was the actual potty seat that is a part of the big toilet seat in her bathroom.  It has the magnet that pulls her little seat into the lid for big people to use the bathroom.

She had made an effort a few months back to potty train but had changed her mind.  I heard that this is very common and to just back off and they will eventually do it.  

Well now came the time when she had an interest again.  Hurray!  Let's go.

At first I would just keep her naked throughout the day.  That was a piece of advise that for sure worked well.  But at some point my child has to have clothing on to be able to leave the house!

We went to the store in a very grandiose way.  It was the biggest thing ever, let's go pick out big girl underpants!  Her eyes were beaming and she was so proud.  After they were washed she sat there and looked at them all trying to pick out which would be her first pair to wear.

There is something very powerful about the big girl underpants.  They are too important not to do it right.  She has been dry in them and very proud to be so.  She knows that accidents will happen and that we always leave the house with an extra pair, so far so good though.

I have used cloth diapers on her since the beginning.  I read articles on the environmental impact, 6000 diapers in a landfill that do not fully compose, and knew I didn't want that.  Really didn't seem like my convenience was worth that.  Also the array of chemicals that are in disposable diapers that are just not safe for your baby.  To this day my daughter has not had a diaper rash!  I was also told that it was much easier to potty train a child in cloth diapers since they feel the wet.  There is no wicking away the moisture from their skin.  From what I have experienced it seems to be true.

So now I wanted to see what the saving would be on the cost of my cloth diapers vs the disposables.

I was told by someone that they spent an average of $70 a month on the disposables.  It would have cost me $1680 for the last 24 months for disposables at that price.   I have 14 Bum Genius adjustable diapers.  I only got 14 because the idea of letting more than that sit grossed me out.  They were $36 for 2 on the website I bought them on, so my investment was $252.  I have also purchased 2 packs of my eco-friendly disposable diapers, Natures Babycare, in the last 24 months.  (Nobody wants you washing diapers at there house when you travel!) The cost was $39 for 108 diapers each time.  So the total for my diapers for the last 24 months is $330.
So I have saved $1350 on diapers in the last 24 months!

Hurray!

I have saved money, been kind to the environment, and kept the chemicals away from my child that I did not want touching her and possibly harming her.  It's a win, win.

I have had alot of people ask me if it was gross to use cloth diapers.  Really, no.  You have to change them and deal with it anyway.  I do recommend getting the Bum Genius sprayer for the toilet.  That will help tremendously!

Till next blog....

BPA Free Canned Foods

I have such a limited amount of canned foods in my house.  I try to buy everything I can in glass jars and bottles.  The cans used to store foods have linings that contain BPA.  If you think about the shelf life of a canned item, do you really want that food to be sitting in a BPA lined can for that long before you eat it?

For those of who don't know what BPA is here is an idea:

Bisphenol A is considered an endocrine disruptor because it mimics estrogen, a natural hormone, and may fool the body by stimulating reactions that are unnecessary and potentially harmful.

Scientists have linked bisphenol A (BPA) to a higher incidence of heart disease, diabetes and liver abnormalities in adults as well as brain and hormone development problems in fetuses and young children. Other tests have shown that bisphenol A can promote human breast cancer cell growth, decrease sperm counts in rats, and cause erectile dysfunction and other sexual problems in men.

Bisphenol A is considered an endocrine disruptor because it mimics estrogen, a natural hormone, and may fool the body by stimulating reactions that are unnecessary and potentially harmful.

Scientists have linked bisphenol A (BPA) to a higher incidence of heart disease, diabetes and liver abnormalities in adults as well as brain and hormone development problems in fetuses and young children. Other tests have shown that bisphenol A can promote human breast cancer cell growth, decrease sperm counts in rats, and cause erectile dysfunction and other sexual problems in men.

Doesn't sound like something you really want in your food, does it?  

The companies actually could all do their canning without BPA but it would costs about 2.2 cents more to do so.  I say do it and let me pay that 2.2 cents more per item.  I would much rather pay more to be safe than to worry about my family ingesting BPA, but unfortunately the companies don't see it that way.

I have searched and emailed companies of products that are not sold in glass jars or bottles and have come up with some products that are canned without BPA.  

Eden Organics.  They have actually been using BPA free cans since 1999!

Vital Choice cans it's MSC certified salmon as well as tuna, sardines and mackerel with BPA free liners.

Oregon's Choice uses BPA cans for their Albacore and will in the next two years move all their canned fish to BPA free.

Wild Planet uses BPA free packaging for its Skipjack Tuna and its Albacore Tuna products.  They also choose smaller fish in order to make its "Lower in Mercury" claim.

Native Forest and Native Factor brands canned goods are in BPA free cans.

Muir Glen stated that they are in the process of finding a BPA free alternative for their canned tomatoes. 

There it is.  The list is short.  Hopefully companies will jump on board and find a BPA free way of canning their products.  I know for me it is a deal breaker.  I don't want BPA.

Till Next Blog....

Hurray for Vinegar and Baking Soda!

I was going out to the garden when I noticed an algae type mold or something on the metal of the screened patio.  It has been there and I kept forgetting to clean it, and honestly wasn't sure what to clean it with. 

Since I clean the entire house with vinegar and baking soda I thought I would give it a shot and see if it would clean this.  I sprinkled the baking soda on the metal and sprayed the vinegar on top.  I let it bubble up for a couple minutes, got my microfiber cloth and went to work.

I was blown away!

It cleaned the green mess away, with ease.  The metal on the screen looks brand new!  My husband even came outside and couldn't believe how good it cleaned.  

I have been using vinegar and baking soda for a while now to clean the house since I do not want any chemicals near me or my family.  I am thrilled to see that it works for things more difficult to clean!  I am going to try it on everything!!

Hurray for vinegar and baking soda!

Oh and did I mention how inexpensive they are?

Till next blog........

Buying From a Local Organic Farm

For the last year I have been buying our meats from a local Farm. I was told by a friend of mine about it and was completely interested.  I buy all organic food for my family and the idea of buying organic meats from a local farm where I could actually know exactly where my food comes from and who was growing it was something I had to check out.

 All of the animals on the farm are grassfed, never administered antibiotics or hormones.  There is not a need for them since the animals are not eating things they are not supposed to.  The cows eat grass, not grains.  The chickens follow the cows in movable coops.  The animals aren't living in stalls, force fed, standing in filth.  They are roaming around as they were intended.

We actually get to see our food walking around and growing every time we go.  For the last couple of months we were able to see the progression of our Thanksgiving turkey growing when we would go to pick up our orders.  We just recently picked up our beautiful 15lb turkey and I knew the bird we were taking home was free of any of the chemicals I do not want my family eating.

There are similar farms and ranches all over.  If you search online in your area or ask around at your local farmers market you will find one.  Not only are you getting healthy food for your family, but you are supporting a local, small business.

Give it a shot.  On top of the great food we get, my daughter loves visiting the farm and seeing the animals!

Till next blog......

Grocery Store Frustration!

Today I ran to my local grocery store to grab a few things.  One of the things I needed was liquid hand soap.  I thought it would be simple to find at least one that didn't have any fragrance and wasn't anti-bacterial.  Surely there would be one that didn't have dangerous chemicals.  WRONG!  I stood there in the aisle searching but everything had some fruit or woodsy scent and every one was anti-bacterial.  I even went to the small section of the store that  had organic products and while they were less toxic they all contained fragrance!

Is it possible that all the people in the world need fragrance to cover up their scent and the scent of their house?  I was so completely blown away that there was not ONE unscented soap anywhere.  Do people not understand that most all fragrances in products are dangerous and should not be used.   Do they not understand that anti-bacterial products contain Triclosan which is an endocrine disruptor and has toxic hormonal effects.  Especially if you are using them with warm water which opens your pores and welcomes all those chemicals right into your system.

I guess I will be making the trip to my Whole Foods tomorrow  to get my unscented, non anti-bacterial soap that cleans my family's hands just fine without any harmful chemicals.

Thanks for letting my rant!

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Inexpensive Reusable Snack Holder

Having a toddler means you cannot leave the house without snacks and a sippy.  Since I am anti-plastic it also means reusable snack bags.

If you have reusable snack bags you know they are expensive.  While they are well worth it to not have plastic carrying your child's food, if you loose one it can become costly to replace.

I was at my local craft store the other day finding something for my daughter when I saw these little cotton canvas bags in the craft aisle.  They have drawstring closures and are the perfect size to pack snacks.    At $.60 each I had to give it a shot.

I washed them when I got home and they didn't fall apart.  I put my daughter's organic cheddar bunnies in one and grapes in the other for a car ride and she was able to open them "all by herself".

Reusable, inexpensive and easy to use.  I am going back for more and may get some non-toxic paints and decorate it!

Till next blog.........

My Wish for One Day, "Green Clean Day"

As I cleaned my house today I had a thought, what if everyone took just one day and cleaned their house using non-toxic products.  What if everyone took a day off from all the chemicals that pollute our water and air supply.  If they just used vinegar, baking soda and water to clean.  Boiled lemons with cloves for air freshener instead of a chemical spray.

If I could afford a national campaign to encourage people to do this I would do it.  It would be amazing to see the impact that just one "Green Clean Day" would have on our environment.  My wish is to see people realize that you don't have to use toxic chemicals to get your house clean or make it smell good.

It is a dream for that to happen I know, but maybe if someone reading this tried it one time it might make a difference.

I think of the current impact all these chemicals have right now and then I look at my almost 2 year old and think, "My God, what will happen in her time with all of these chemicals in the system".

Till next blog....

Another Secret Shared, My Bread

I've already let one secret out so I may as well share another, my homemade bread.  I love making bread and it is really so easy to make.  It is so great when I see we are running low on bread in our house I just pop another loaf in the oven and there you go.  No running to the store for bread. Another great thing is that I KNOW what's in my bread.  I KNOW every ingredient and that there aren't any preservatives in my bread.

I like to do my bread loafs French Bread style.  You can do them in a loaf pan if you want that shape and style, I just love the french bread style.

You will need:

1 1/4 Cup room temperature water
3 1/3 Cups Bread Flour, I like King Arthur unbleached
2 Tablespoons sugar, Organic of course
1 1/2 Teaspoons salt
2 1/2 Teaspoons yeast, not quick rise

(Sometimes I add a handful of a dried spice mixture like thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary to give it an Italian taste)

I mix all the ingredients in my Kitchen Aid mixer until the dough is nice and moist.  I then put it into a bowl that I grease with oil.  Cover and let it sit till it rises.  Take the dough out and put it on a floured surface and "punch out" the air.  I work it and then put it on a greased baking sheet, shape it into a french bread loaf, and cover it and let it rise again.  (If you are using a loaf pan just put it in the loaf pan and cover) Preheat oven to 400*.  Before putting it in the oven make 3 to 4 cuts along the top of the bread, for french bread style.  Bake for about 12 minutes or so depending on your oven.  Once it has a pretty tan color to it, it's ready.  Take it out and let it cool on a rack.

That's It!!  That's all it takes to make amazing fresh baked bread.  Easy huh?  Not to mention the money you will save.  The best part is knowing exactly what is in the food your eating, well and the reaction your family will have to how great the bread is.

One other tip, put a celery stalk in with the bread when you store it and that will keep it fresh for days.  No need to refrigerate.

ENJOY!!!

Till next blog........

OK, I Am Sharing My Secret

I haven't seen the bread aisle of a grocery store in well over a year.  I bake my own bread, make my own pizza dough, rolls, but the one item that everyone wants the recipe for are my bagels.

I have decided that I would share the recipe.  It will shock the people I have made them for who thought it was so difficult, but I really feel the time has come to share.

This recipe is for my cinnamon raisin bagels, but if you omit the cinnamon and raisins you have plain bagels that you can add any ingredient you love on/in your bagels.

Ingredients:

2 Teaspoons yeast
1 Tablespoon brown sugar (I use organic)
1 1/2 cups room temp water
1 Tablespoon salt
4 Cups bread flour  (I use King Arthur unbleached)
2 Teaspoons baking soda
About 1/2 cup cornmeal & flour
About 2 tablespoons cinnamon
About a cup of raisins (I use organic)


Mix the yeast with the brown sugar and warm water in a large bowl.  I use my KitchenAid mixer and use the mixing attachment.  Stir in the salt and then add the flour one cup at a time to let it hydrate.  For the cinnamon raisin bagels I add one cup of flour and then add the cinnamon and raisins before adding the rest of the flour.  I then put on the dough hook and let it go for about 5 minutes.  Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 2 hours.

Turn the dough out onto a flour dusted cutting board.  Cut a 4 oz portion and mold into a ball.  I use my half cup stainless measuring cup to cut and measure it.  Let the dough balls rest for about 5 minutes.  Pierce the ball with your fingers and rotate them until you get the right size hole and bagel shape.  Put the bagel on a cormeal-flour dusted tray.  Cover them and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat the oven to 425 to 450, depending on how hot your oven is.  Dust a new baking sheet with the cornmeal -flour mixture.

Fill a large pot 3/4 full and bring water to a boil, add baking soda.  Drop bagels in batches into the water.  Boil one side for 2 minutes, turn the bagels and boil on the second side for 2 more minutes.  The should firm and puff up.  Remove from water and drain on a rack for a couple minutes.

Place the bagels on a prepared baking sheet.  Put in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, rotate the tray 90 degrees and cook another 5 minutes or until the bagels are tan.  Remove and let cool on a baking rack for 30 minutes.

There it is. NO preservatives, NO food coloring, and I get to use organic ingredients.  I feel great knowing exactly what goes in them.  The best part my family and friends love them!

Once you make them you will be shocked how easy it is and how much more delicious they are.

Enjoy!!!!

Till Next Blog.......

Changing Batteries to Rechargable

A few years ago I was completely clueless about batteries.  I would just change them and toss the old batteries into the trash.  Then I read how dangerous that is for the environment.


Batteries are made from a number of different materials.  These materials include acid, lead, nickel, lithium, cadmium, alkaline, mercury and nickel.  When batteries are not properly disposed of the casing can disintegrate and the toxic chemicals within can leach into the surrounding environment.  It can contaminate the soil and water.  Since around 180,000 tons of batteries are being discarded in the trash in the US every year that ALOT of toxins making it's way into our soil and water supply.

I started taking our used batteries to the recycling drop-off.  They have one at our local library, maybe yours too.  But then I thought, why am I not using rechargeable batteries?

Yes they are initially more expensive, but think of how much it costs to constantly replace the batteries in your home.  It actually ends up costing way less in the long run to use the rechargeable.

We now use the rechargeable batteries and have the charger.  They are awesome.  When they run low I throw them in the charger and a little while later they are good to go.  No need to go to the store to have to buy more batteries and I don't have to take them to be recycled.  I know that the rechargeable batteries eventually die too, but at least we have so much less to be recycled.

With the holidays coming up it is something to think about.  How many batteries will you have to buy?  Why not make them something better for the environment and eventually your wallet.

Till next blog................

Decorating My Daughter's Room

When I had my daughter it was right after baseball season and my husband and I were still looking for a house.  Since we were in NY for season I didn't get the chance to "nest" and make a nursery while pregnant.  When we finally found a house it was time to create a room for my daughter but I wanted it to be as non-toxic as possible.

The first thing was choosing paint.  I knew I wanted  to use no VOC paint.  VOC's can be very dangerous, especially in a baby's room.

Volatile Organic Compounds in Your Home

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Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a large group of carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature. While most people can smell high levels of some VOCs, other VOCs have no odor. Odor does not indicate the level of risk from inhalation of this group of chemicals. There are thousands of different VOCs produced and used in our daily lives. Some common examples include:

• Acetone
• Benzene
• Ethylene glycol
• Formaldehyde
• Methylene chloride
• Perchloroethylene
• Toluene
• Xylene
• 1,3-butadiene

  What are the health effects of VOC exposure?

  The risk of health effects from inhaling any chemical depends on how much is in the air, how long and how often a person breathes it in. Scientists look at short-term (acute) exposures as hours to days or long-term (chronic) exposures as years to even lifetime.
  Breathing low levels of VOCs for long periods of time may increase some people’s risk of health problems. Several studies suggest that exposure to VOCs may make symptoms worse in people who have asthma or are particularly sensitive to chemicals. These are much different exposures than occupational exposures to VOCs.
  VOCs refer to a group of chemicals. Each chemical has its own toxicity and potential for causing different health effects. Common symptoms of exposure to VOCs include:

  Short-Term (Acute) to high levels of VOCs

  • Eye, nose and throat irritation
  • Headaches
  • Nausea / Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Worsening of asthma symptoms

  Long-Term (Chronic) to high levels of VOCs

  Increased risk of:
• Cancer
• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Central Nervous System damage
• 
  
• I found a fantastic no-VOC paint. The Benjamin Moore Natura line.  They color match any color and the paint is SAFE.  
• 
  

• Natura Interior Waterborne Eggshell (513) is a premium-quality, zero-VOC paint that provides a durable, washable and fade-resistant finish. Natura Interior Waterborne Eggshell (513) is ideally suited for residential applications. Unlike conventional zero-VOC paints, Natura remains zero-VOC even after tinting, which means it remains virtually odorless regardless of color.

  Features Virtually odorless Zero VOC's regardless of color Quick return to service 100% Acrylic Provides a durable, Washable film Spatter-resistant unlimited color selection one hour recoat for quick return to service Self priming on most surfaces Carries the Green Promise designation.

  Even when we started to paint the room there was No Odor!  It was amazing!  The color went on beautifully. Next was choosing the carpet.  I did alot of research and I was so pleased to discover that there is an Eco-friendly carpet!  The Smart Strand by Mowhawk. Who Knew?? We decided on the berber, which is the softest berber I have ever felt.  There are several colors to choose from.  It was available at our local Home Depot.   We are thrilled with it. SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer contains ingredients made from corn sugar. 37 percent of the carpet fiber comes from renewably sourced ingredients that replace petroleum – a limited resource. Every seven yards of SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer saves the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline. By choosing Eco-smart technology, you are choosing to reduce your environmental impact. Now that’s smart. SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer reduces our environmental footprint but what about the durability, texture and stain resistance of this product? SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer offers environmental benefits with no compromises. With unbeatable built-in stain protection for all the “oops” moments, time-tested durability, incredible softness and eco-smart technology, SmartStrand® lets you focus on other things besides your carpet. Making up your baby's room is so much more than cute wall decals and colors.  The paint, carpet and all should be as non-toxic as you can possibly make it.  Hope this gave you some options. Till next blog.....

A New Use For Olive Oil

I was in the kitchen with my daughter making salsa the other day as my husband was doing yardwork. He was coming in and out of the sliding glass door and it had this horrible squeaking sound that was driving me crazy.  My fix for that problem used to be to grab some WD-40 and be done with it but since I have become very anti-chemical, especially when my daughter is around, I had to find a different solution.

As I was standing at my counter I saw my container of olive oil and I thought, "why not?".  I always have a large supply of olive oil in the house so I gave it a shot.  I oiled down the track and the catch. Tada, the squeak was completely gone.  The door hasn't made a noise since and it actually runs smoother than it EVER has before.

I went around the house and found all the doors and drawers with little squeaks and put a little olive oil on them as well.  It's unbelievable how well it works!  No chemicals, and it's something you probably have in your house right now!

Give it a shot.

Till next blog.......

The Big Girl Bed Mattress

A few weeks ago my 21 month old started sticking her legs through the crib rails and getting them stuck.  It's amazing how well olive oil works for a stuck knee!  So, it was time to make the change from the crib to her big girl bed.  NOT an easy decision.  Having her in the safety and well, let's face it the lockdown of that crib was great!

When I had purchased the crib mattress and sheets it was all organic and actually pretty easy to find.  I assumed it would be that way with her mattress now, but I was so wrong.

I was in the market for a twin mattress for her toddler bed, so I went to the local mattress store to see what organic options there were.  NONE.  Not one.  How is it possible that they do not carry any organic mattresses in a mattress store??  Really?

Ah the internet.  I went online to start the search.  It was a nightmare.  I found 2 places in my area that sell organic mattresses........if I wanted to spend a mortgage payment to get one.  I was blown away.  I just was looking for a TWIN mattress.

After a ton of searching and reading reviews I found the mattress.  It is from a company called Naturepedic.  www.naturepedic.com  They specialize in organic baby and children's mattresses.  They are certified organic.  The mattresses are organic cotton fabric and filling.  Non-toxic fire protection.  Waterproof surface.

I went with the Organic Cotton Ultra Twin Mattress.  It was $599.  Way less than the $2300 - $3000 I was quoted with the other mattresses.  Oh, and I ordered it from Babyage.com and received free shipping!  YES!

The mattress is wonderful.  Even taking it out of the packing it didn't have any "odor" making me feel better right away.  I paired that with the organic sheets and my little one got in her big girl bed the first night and said, "it's comfy Mommy".  She has been sleeping wonderfully on her new mattress.

I feel great knowing that she has a big girl mattress that is safe for her to sleep on and it wasn't highway robbery to get it.

AH...now if I could just get past the fear of her being able to get out of her bed in the night!

Till next blog............

Anti-paper (Almost)!!

I had an "AHA" moment one day while I was cleaning the mirrors in my bathroom with my vinegar/water mixture.  Why am I using paper towels for this???  This is such a waste, there has to be a better way.

I had started using Marcal Small Steps recycled paper products in my house, which I love, but do I really need to be wasting paper to clean mirrors and surfaces in my house?  Do we really need to be using paper napkins for dinner?  The answer is a resounding NO!

For cleaning I discovered microfiber cloths.  They could be the best thing ever!  I use them for cleaning everything!  Mirrors, counters, shower tiles, any and all surfaces in my house.  They seriously clean so much better than paper towels.  The mirrors in my house clean so much better and easier since I started using them and there is no waste.  I Put them in with the wash and they are ready for the next project.  They are amazing for dusting too, without using any cleaner.

I actually went into my local Big-Lots and saw them one day.  Since they were $1.00 each I thought, "Why Not?".  Even if I hated them it cost me a couple bucks.  Well, I ended up going back and buying about 10 more.

It also hit me one night as I was putting dinner on the table and getting the paper napkins that this was also a waste.  I remember my Mom used to say that we used the cloth napkins for company or for special occasions but paper for regular meals .  Well that's garbage, sorry Mom.  Why not use them every meal?  Why on earth do we need to waste paper?  Even if I am using recycled paper products.  The answer is we don't have to.  I went out and bought some cotton napkins and that is what we now use.  I throw them into the wash and there you go.  To me it feels a little bit fancier each meal, since I grew up thinking that, but I also feel like an idiot for wasting so much that really didn't need to be.

I still buy paper towels, but the three pack of Marcal I buy now lasts for months.  I use it basically to pat down meats and seafood before cooking, which you really don't want to use a anything else for.  

It's funny, once again I find myself feeling like I am living in my grandmother's shoes.  Back then they used to use old cloths and shirts because money was so tight you really had to, now I do it to be better to the environment and stop being so wasteful.  In the end, oddly enough, it does end up saving me money as well.  Go Figure!

Till next blog......

Favorite New Shaving Products

This is just a quick blog to share my favorite new shaving products.  The first is Kiss My Face Moisture Shave.  This wonderful shave cream contains no Parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates or phthalates.  It also has no artificial colors, preservatives or fragrance.  I LOVE this shave cream.

The other is a new razor I found.  It is actually a disposable, which I would normally not recommend.  It is called Bioshave.  The handle of the razor is made of a plant-based biodegradable material.  The packing is made from post-recycled cardboard, even the printing ink is vegetable based.  How great is that!  A biodegradable razor.

I used these two items together and got the best shave I have ever had.

Till next blog....

The Garden!

As I was covering our garden tonight to protect it from the Malathion that the city sprays for mosquitos (we are on a call list since we have an organic garden and do not want any chemicals effecting it) , I thought what a perfect night to blog about it.

Since my daughter started to eat food I have feed her only organic.  I do not want her to consume hormones, pesticides or anything else that is not suppose to be in our food.  I feed our family this way exclusively, but it all started with my daughter.

Being responsible for shaping the way my daughter eats and making sure those items are clean and healthy is Huge!  It comes with a much higher grocery bill.  It also means driving 30 minutes each way to the only Whole Foods in town to find all the organic and hormone free products to feed us.

My husband and I came up with an idea,  why not dedicate some of our yard to start an organic garden?

We went online and did a ton of research.  We found the best way to do the beds, bought a ton of organic seeds and got the beds ready for the experiment.

I've always grown my own herbs and tomatoes, but this was so much more.  We weren't really sure what we were getting ourselves into but thought, why not?  If it fails we just continue the way we are.  But if it works we will be able to feed our family healthy things from our backyard.

The worst part of the garden in the beginning is the waiting.   Did we just dig up half the yard and make these beds for nothing?  Will anything sprout?

They did!  Oh boy did they.  It seemed like everything started all at once and we were thrilled. We planted everything that we eat and because it was that perfect time in Florida, the cold spells are gone but the insane heat hasn't hit yet. It all grew.  Then the heat hit and we realized that some of the things we planted, like peas and lettuce, are our winter crops.  We are learning!

Then came the bugs.  How do we control the bugs that are eating our plants?  We aren't using pesticides so now what.  Our research brought us to a ton of information on what natural things to use to fight off bugs and what plants and flowers to plant in or around the beds to keep certain bugs and critters away.  Amazing!!  There is a planting strategy!  You would also be amazed at what garlic, cooking oil and dish soap can do to ward off bugs!  Imagine, things that won't harm the environment and hurt my child that can ward off bugs?  Without Pesticides?  What a novel idea!

We now have a beautiful 60' x 6' garden filled with squash, zucchini, green beans, carrots, watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, tomato, potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, all kinds of peppers, blueberries and tons of basil, sage, rosemary, dill and parsley.  We also have a Meyer lemon, mango and grapefruit tree.  There is a avocado and clementine tree started also!

The garden is work but it is also so rewarding.  The produce we grow tastes so much sweeter and fresher than anything I buy, but the best part is seeing my daughter grab something right out of the garden and eat it.  I have the peace of mind of knowing exactly what went into and on it and it saves our family money at the same time.

I still make my weekly drive to Whole Foods, but the list is alot shorter when I go!

Till next blog......

My Kitchen Overhaul

Standing in my kitchen one day I had a moment, maybe a little breakdown.  I realized that there was too much plastic in it!!  I was using entirely too many plastic products to cook, handle and store my families food.

I had just switched my daughter's BPA free bowls to stainless steel ones and I use stainless steel salad forks and little coffee spoons for her but what about the rest?

I have come to realize that plastic, even BPA free isn't exactly safe, let alone to be around the food my family eats.  Looking around my kitchen I see spatulas, mixing bowls, dish drainer, tupperware and so much more all PLASTIC.  While they have taken the BPA out of children's items I don't recall seeing these items marked BPA free, they are just full blown plastic.  Since I am now of the mindset of no plastic this was horrifying!

I am a foodie so my kitchen is gadget central!  I am sure that the many gadgets I have as well as the "as seen on tv" items I also have aren't exactly made of the safest materials.

So started the purge.  Out with the plastic, in with the glass and stainless steel.

My pretty mixing bowl sets of lightweight plastic, replaced by glass.  The lovely Williams Sonoma spatulas, replaced by wooden ones like my Mom had.  The strainers set that used to fix nice and neatly together, replaced by a stainless steel set.  Etc. Etc.  All replaced with either glass or stainless steel.  I even realized that the holder for my kitchen sponge was plastic, replaced by stainless.

The funny part is that the stainless and glass items are actually less expensive than the plastic items I was replacing.  Thankfully!!

Then there is the cookware.  Not so inexpensive to replace, but something you really have to think about if you are using non-stick pans.

Non-stick cookware contains many chemicals, one of which is Perflurooctanoic Acid or PFOA.  This is a chemical that when the pan is heated up can leach into the food you are cooking.  Especially if the pan has scratches where the teflon coating is coming loose.  The companies that make the chemicals and pans of course say they are safe and cannot enter the food, however a recent study showed that 95% of american men, women and children have the chemical in their bloodstreams.

Some of the listed effects from the chemical is cancer in the liver, pancreas, testicles and mammary glands.  There is also increased miscarriage, thyroid problems and it is attributed to low birth weight in newborns.  Yes, if you use it to cook while pregnant it can leach into your fetus. Nice huh?

Your best bet is to get a couple pots and pans, baking pans too,  that are not non stick and use olive oil or butter.

Think about this.  If you were to marinate something in tupperware, cook it in a non-stick pan using a plastic spatula, that's alot of chemicals going into to ONE meal.  If you do that everyday, for all meals, what is going into you and your families bodies?

Do it yourself.  Go into your kitchen, open the cabinets and drawers and take inventory of how many plastic and non-stick items you have.

Till next blog......

Where did you get that Sippy?

I cannot tell you how many times I hear the question, "Where did you get that sippy?".  I am constantly being stopped and asked when someone sees my daughter holding her sippy.   The grocery store, restaurants, even at the screener at the airport asked!

I used to buy all the BPA free sippy cups thinking I was doing something right for my daughter.  I then read an article that said that even BPA free isn't entirely safe.  The other chemicals that make up the plastic have the ability to leach into the liquids and harm my child.  Seriously!

As a Mom I am trying to do the best I can by my child and just when I think I am, it's just not enough!  How are you supposed to know when the information out there is half truths?  It seriously is like they are out to get my child!  Well, if you are like me you look alot further to find a solution.

I found THE sippy cup.  It is the Pura Kiki.

The bottle is stainless steel.  Not breakable.  They are 100% BPA-free. 100% phthalate-free, 100% lead-free and 100% PVC free.

The paint on the outside of the bottle, if you chose the colored ones, is non-toxic and free of lead, phthalates, PVC and BPA.

They can go from a baby bottle to a sippy cup because the nipple is inter-changable.  There are also 2 different sizes to suit a baby or toddler.  It can be used with the Pura medical grade silicone nipples, which I personally use, or it is compatible with Avent, Thinkbaby, Born Free, or Dr. Brown's nipples.  If I  had to do it all over again I would have used these from baby bottle on.

In my opinion this is the perfect sippy!  NO PLASTIC.  There is not one part of this bottle that I am concerned about being toxic for my daughter.

They are a little more pricey than the other sippy's, but really does that matter when it comes to your child's safety?

I have a few of them and clean them often.  I don't really let fluid sit in any of the stainless steel bottles we have in our house. I think it's great that the same stainless steel bottles we have for our own use is now also our child's.

Check them out for yourself at www.purastainless.com.  Just beware, you will soon be answering the question, "Where did you get that sippy?".

Cleaning Products

I read a heartbreaking interview with John Travolta after his son Jett passed away.  In it he talked about how he believed that his obsession with cleaning and how using so many cleaning products around his son when he was a baby may have caused his seizure disorder.  That really impacted me.  Could cleaning products really harm my baby?  You never see that on all those commercials.  Well, the answer is yes it's possible.

If you start to think about all the chemicals in cleaning products and how delicate a young baby's system is, the two just don't mix.

My husband is in baseball and when my daughter was 6 months old we had to head to NY for baseball season.  We were going to be living in a hotel for the entire season which meant housekeeping everyday.  Prior to arriving I sent instructions for the hotel: NO CLEANING CHEMICALS, NO FEBREZE to be used in my room at all.  This was not something I would compromise on.  I even offered to clean the room myself.  The hotel agreed that the housekeepers would use vinegar and water only and no Febreze.

The third day we were there I had gone out and when I arrived back at the room the stench of Febreze hit us as we walked into the room and I freaked out!  The house keepers were down the hall and I let them have it.  I was devastated.  The front desk apologized and they aired out my room and it never happened again.  From that point on though there was a sign on our door that read "No Chemicals or Febreze" just in case.

I had read the warnings associated with the chemicals in cleaners and also how bad Febreze and air fresheners in general are.  I really do not need my house to smell like a cool ocean breeze.  I need my child to be healthy.

Prior to having a baby I did the same thing everyone else does, you buy what you see on tv.  You buy this and that to make it quick and easy to clean.  Well quick and easy can also be dangerous and deadly.  Not only do those chemicals linger in the air for your child to breathe, but they also can linger on the surface for your child to ingest.  Think about your little one crawling on the newly wet-jetted floor and then putting their hands in their mouth.  Do you really know if that product is safe??

What about if by chance you child gets ahold of that product and ingests it.  What then?

I started using a couple items from a product line called Baby Ganics.  They are NON-TOXIC and I love them.  For the most part though I reverted back to what my Grandmother did, use vinegar and baking soda.  She used to say that there wasn't anything that vinegar and baking soda couldn't do.  As a kid you are like "Whatever", but after having my daughter is was time to give it a shot.

I use vinegar for everything.  It cleans mirrors beautifully, pour some in the toilet and add some baking soda and man does that clean it, in the shower that same mix seriously cleans tile and hard water spots on shower doors, in the kitchen it is amazing and doesn't scratch surfaces and there is so much more.  If you don't like the smell, which goes away, add a little lemon juice. Don't even get me started on how much I save in products.  I have a gallon jug of vinegar and 13lbs of baking soda in the cabinet right now and I can clean this house for a LONG time.

The best part is that it is truly is safe.  I can clean the house and not be afraid that one of those items is going to potentially harm my daughter.  I might have to put a little "elbow grease" (my Dad used to say as a kid) in it, but really it's not that hard.

I love being able to know that the two ingredients I am using are non-toxic and my daughter can be around me while I use them.

For good ideas on using vinegar go to www.vinegartips.com and for baking soda, armandhammer.com actually has a categorized list of uses.

Till next blog....

Baby's Bath

I remember signing up for the newborn care class at the hospital thinking I would receive important information that would make me feel more capable to take care of my daughter.  I did not expect to feel more afraid.

The one area they discussed that ended up terrifying me was bathing my baby.

I had thought it would be so simple.  Not even close.

You have to make sure the temperature isn't too hot or you could scald your baby, babies are slippery, you can't wash her until her bellybutton fall off, etc etc.  Then to make matters worse there are a million different items out there to use to bathe your child.

First is the baby bath itself.  There are so many different styles it's shocking.  They even have ones with spa-like sprayers.  Did my newborn really need a spa experience?  Fortunately for me I was looking for a BPA Free Non-toxic bath so it really narrowed down the field.

There is a great newborn bath called the Primo Eurobath.  It is BPA, Phthalates and Lead free.  It very simple and easy to use, without all the bells and whistles.  It runs around $25 to $30.

I also purchased an in-between bath seat.  It's ideal for that stage where they are too big for the newborn bath, but not ready for the big bath yet.  Aquababy Bathtub Seat is non-slip and non-toxic.  It is so great because my daughter could sit up in it and loved it.  I also didn't have to worry about her slipping since she was set in the seat.  It is also really easy to clean them.  That was a concern of mine but it was just as simple as the newborn bath.

After you decide on the bath to use it is time to move on to the "gear" you need. 

 I chose to use Little Bamboo washcloths and towels.  They are pesticide free and eco-friendly and organically grown.  I love them!  They are super soft and chemical free.  How great is that against my baby's skin!

When I first started bathing my baby I used just warm water for awhile.  I didn't want to use anything on her new skin and besides the dirty diapers, was she really getting that dirty from sleeping all day?

The baby wash and lotion I chose to use on her is California Baby Super Sensitive.  I read a lot of information about how bad the detergents and chemicals in a lot of "big name" baby washes and lotions are.  Also scent-free is really the way to go.  Babies new skin is so sensitive that you don't want a scent to start a reaction and honestly do you really want to take away from the wonderful smell of your newborn child? YUM Also make sure to keep away from ANYTHING with parabens.  They can potentially harm your child.

I actually started to use the lotion that I purchased for my daughter on myself.  I didn't want her to be exposed through me holding her to chemicals in my lotion so I switched and never went back.  I think it is very important to make sure that when I touch her it is safe for her and myself as well.  If your baby is anything like mine than your shoulder will be used to suck on constantly and you don't want to take a chance.

Bath toys.  My daughter loves them!  We have a set of her "people" as she calls them and also letters and numbers.  Make sure the bath toys are non-toxic.  You will be warming up those items in the bath and you do not want any chemicals leeching into the bath water that your child is soaking in and will for sure drink some of.  I love Boon bath toys and the Munchkin letters and numbers.  They are both non-toxic.  

I really recommend a bath ball filter also.  It hangs from the faucet and filters the water that comes out.  There are a few places that carry them.  Gaiam carries one that is around $60.  Well worth it if you don't have a full house filtration system.  You would be shocked to find out what is lurking in your water.  In my area there was jet fuel found in the water!

Another thing to consider is the shower curtain liner.  The plastic liners contain BPA.  Choose a fabric liner.  I know, never thought about that.  It is also a lot safer.  

My now 19 month old daughter likes to play hide and seek.  She loves to sit on the bathroom floor with the shower curtain covering her and her FACE, plastic would be very bad in that situation!  

There is so much to think about for your baby's bath.  I was blown away.  I thought it was a simple, bathe my child, but it really isn't at all.  Once you get everything in place and your ready though, it is so much fun!  My daughter loved the bath from day one and still runs across the house yelling "bath" trying to take her clothes off on the way when we say the word.

Till next blog....