Thanks for joining me On The Green! If you watched my green segment this morning, thank you for viewing and I hope you can find some more valuable green info here on my blog.
Today kicked off Good Morning Northwest's Televised version of On The Green. Gail Everett with the City of Richland will join me twice a month to discuss new green ideas and ways to incorporate them (simply) into your lifestyle.
Thanks to Gail, the City of Richland has a FANTASTIC environmental education web page where you can find all of the following information and much much much more.
That website is: http://www.ci.richland.wa.us/RICHLAND/enviro/index.cfm?PageNum=1
Lets recap some good recycling information.
Starting with the basics. You don't have to have a bunch of fancy bins, or collectors to recycle. Cardboard boxes, paper bags, plastic bins, just about anything works. I uses paper grocery bags at work to separate my recyclables.If you don't have recycling/garbage service to your house, there are several drop boxes around the Tri Cities where you can drop off your recycling.
What are the drop boxes? Maybe you have seen BIG HUGE GREEN bins in empty parking lots or on street corners. They look like big garbage dumpsters, but they are strictly for recycling. (yay!)
What can you drop off? This info has been provided by the City of Richland.
♦ Scrap Paper: Includes phone books, white, colored, copy, fax and computer paper, junk mail, cards, envelopes, file folders, egg cartons, tin can labels, paper bags and pressboard (cereal, cracker and shoe boxes, paper core tubes, etc.).
♦ Glass Jars and Bottles: Rinse and separate clear and colored glass.
Labels do not have to be removed. Please no light bulbs, Pyrex,
drinking glasses or window glass. Please rinse to remove any food residue.
♦ Tin and Aluminum: Rinse and flatten if possible. Rinse aluminum
foil and pie tins. Breath mint and gum tins are recyclable as well as lids from cans and jars. No scrap metal.
♦ Cardboard: Only flattened corrugated cardboard and brown paper bags.
No packaging material (bubble wrap, peanuts or preformed Styrofoam).
♦ Plastics: Rinse and flatten plastic bottles marked with
a #1 or 2 on the bottom. These are typically beverage containers (milk, pop, water). Labels do not have to be removed. Rings and lids are acceptable, but no Styrofoam.
♦ Newspapers, Magazines, Catalogs: Place loosely in bin.
No junk mail or scrap paper in this bin (see above).
Where are some of these drop box locations? Here are the locations in Richland.
More in the other areas to come.
In South Richland, near ACE Hardware, 103 Keene; corner of Queensgate and Keene; Wal-Mark Parking Lot, 2801 Duportail; 1300 block of Lee Blvd. (west of Fran Rish Stadium); 1300 block of Jadwin (behind Texaco Station); 7-Eleven on George Washington Way in North Richland; Battelle complex, 7th and ‘W’ Avenue, and at the Horn Rapids Landfill, 3120 Twin Bridges Road.
While most of us know you can recycle the basic cardboard, glass, aluminum.... here are a few other items you can recycle... some may surprise you!
INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE CITY OF RICHLAND
♦Batteries, Household Type: Used C, D, AA, AAA can be taken to the Benton County Moderate Risk Waste Facility, (3102 Twin Bridges Road) at the Horn Rapids Landfill. This is a non-regulated waste and although discouraged, can be placed in the trash. There is also a container at city hall.
♦Batteries, Rechargeable: Used rechargeable batteries (those found in portable phones, cell phones, lab top computers, hand tools, pagers, 2-way radios) can be placed in the container located in Richland City Hall, or taken to the Moderate Risk Waste Facility at the landfill. The battery terminals should be taped with duct or electricians tape, or placed separately in a plastic bag.
♦Batteries, Small Equipment or Vehicle Type: Take to the Benton County Moderate Risk Waste Facility or contact a local business and inquire about their return or recycle policy.
♦Computer Disks (CDs): Beside recycling, unneeded CDs are great for a variety of craft projects (www.make-stuff.com/recycling/cd.html.)
• DVDS, CDS AND JEWEL CASES. You can trade CDs at www.zunafish.com. Wanna let it go and not worry about it ending up in a landfill? Send those discs to www.greendisk.com for recycling.
• America Online accepts unwanted AOL CDs only, see www.NoMoreAOLCDs.com or mail to America Online, Attn: Mail Room, 22000 AOL Way, Dulles, VA, 20166.
• GreenDisk accepts CDs for recycling. There is a 30-cent charge per pound to cover labor costs ($6.95 minimum). Mail to: GreenDisk, 2200 Burlington, Columbia, MO, 65202. For more information on GreenDisk’s computer and accessory recycling program, visit www.greendisk.com/
♦Cell Phones: There are several ways to sell, donate or recycle unneeded cell phones.
• Bring them to the Benton County Moderate Risk Waste Facility, who donates them to the local Domestic Violence Services. You may call them directly at 582-9841.
• Drop them off at participating schools in our area - call your favorite school to see if they are collecting for fundraising events.
• Sell them to companies like: www.cellforcash.com or www.oldcellphone.com
• Link to www.donateaphone.com or send the phone, charger and accessories to:
Call to Protect, 2555 Bishop Circle West, Dexter MI 48130-1563
Computers: Contact the manufacturer listed on your equipment to see what take-back programs they offer. A home page is a good place to start looking. For businesses with more than one to recycle, contact the Moderate Risk Waste Facility (942-7387) for a list of recyclers.
RECA Foundation in Kennewick (543-2910) is accepting Pentium II and higher computers for community redistribution to low income households. Columbia Basin College may accept them too. Call 547-0511 x2397.
Dell computers will also accept computers for free or for a small pick up charge. Visit www.dell4me.com/recycling for information.
♦Foam Packing Peanuts: Save and reuse for mailing or take to a local mailing service for reuse (call first). Most mailing centers will accept it back from the public (depends on current stockpile). The Mailing Center in Richland will also give it away, (free) if available. Another idea for reuse is to place a layer of Styrofoam peanuts in the bottom of a pot before adding soil. It aids draining and makes the pot lighter.
The Mailing Center, 302 Torbett Street, Richland WA (509) 943-0693
♦Greeting Cards: Unwanted greeting cards (any occasion) can be recycled in scrap paper recycling containers or given to the Richland Seniors Association that creatively refurbishes the cards and resells them for a fraction of the cost. Drop off cards and take a peek at their new selection.
Richland Community Center - Senior Coordinator, 500 Amon Park Drive, (509) 942-7529
Laser Jet Cartridges: Empty printer cartridges can be recycled by sending them to the manufacturer using the prepaid sticker that accompanies new printer cartridges, or pick up a free mailing envelope at City Hall, Public Library, the Moderate Risk Waste Facility, local office supply stores or the Post Office. The following schools also collect and recycle them as a fundraising drive:
• Christ the King School, 1122 Long St., Richland, 946-6158
• Hanford High School, 450 Hanford St., Richland, 371-2600
• Jason Lee Elementary, 1702 Van Giesen St., Richland, 942-2555
• Jefferson Elementary School, 1525 Hunt St., Richland, 967-6250
• Liberty Christian School, 2200 Williams Blvd., Richland, 946-0602
• Marcus Whitman Elementary, 1704 Gray St., Richland, 967-6300
• River's Edge Alternative School, 975 Gillespie St., Richland, 942-295
• Wiley Elementary, 2820 S. Highland Blvd, West Richland, 967-4141
• Vista Elementary School, 1701 N. Young St., Kennewick, 734-3590
• Kiwanis Clubs, visit your favorite club or see www.kiwanis.org
♦Pallets: Request the vendor to pick them up during the next delivery, recycle at the landfill, or contact a local pallet business. Tri-City Pallets, 545-6424; Cascade Pallets, 546-2638; Pallet Services Inc., 543-3637.
♦Plastic Shopping Bags: Collection containers for plastic bags, produce bags, newspaper sleeves and dry cleaning bags are in place in the entrance of major grocery stores in Richland.
Prescription Eye Glasses: Used prescription eyeglasses can be donated to non-profit organizations like the Lions Club or Kiwanis Club for humanitarian needs. Containers are set up in various optometrists’ office, Safeway, Costco and the Richland Community Center.
Albertson’s
1320 Lee Boulevard
Albertson’s
130 W. Gage Boulevard
Fred Meyer
101 Wellsian Way
Safeway
1803 George Washington Way
Wal-Mart
2801 Duportail
WinCo
101 Columbia Point Drive
♦Propane Tanks: Propane tanks can be recycled, free of charge, by taking them to the Moderate Risk Waste Facility. Amerigas Propane located at 204 N. Fruitland Street in Kennewick, (582-8888) or Oxarc,716 S. Oregon Avenue in Pasco, (547-2494) will accept them for a charge if over 5 gallons.
♦Tires: Horn Rapids Landfill & Northwest Tire Recycling, 967-3952 will accept them.
Wood: Wood waste, including pallets and yard debris, can be taken to the Horn Rapids Landfill. The wood is chipped and available to the public for free. For more information, contact 942-7498.
♦Free Advertising for Inexpensive Items: There are two options for giving away or selling unneeded items at no cost. The Tri-City Herald’s “Freebies” column, printed on Mondays and Tuesdays, is available for items $50 or less. Pick up a form at 333 Canal Drive in Kennewick. Log onto www.2good2toss.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Friday, October 24, 2008
Talk about pets...baby
Lets talk about PETS baby....
If you've ever watched Good Morning Northwest or talked to me in person, you know I am an animal nut. I love animals. Unless you count bugs... anyway I love vinegar and I love pets so lets put the two and two together!
Taking care of any kind of animal can be very expensive even if you just stick to the basics. But what pet owner does that? Pets are part of the family, so why wouldn't you want to give your special animal friend the best? The problem is, all those little extras for your pet can add up. That's why I suggest grabbing some vinegar for $1 at the dollar store and give your pet the treatment it deserves... hey they don't know how much it all costs!
Lets start out with the doggies.
Boost your dogs confidence by giving them a glamorous, shiny coat. Mix up one cup vinegar with one quart water in a spray bottle. Spray your pets fur and rub it in. This can also work on horses! NOT the best idea to use on a cat. Cats don't really like vinegar.
Give your dog the help they need and keep those floppy ears from itching! Clean your dogs ears regularly and wipe them out with a washcloth or q-tips soaked in vinegar. This should keep Fido from scratching away.
P.U.!!!!!!!! Did fluffy get skunked?!?! You're pet may have gotten sprayed by a skunk, rolled around in a dead skunk...they might have done something... the point is YOU DON'T CARE WHAT THEY DID.... THEY JUST STINK!!!! Please get rid of that foul smell! Mix a 50-50 solution of vinegar and water and wipe down the animal. I suggest an overall vinegar/water bath. Rinse your pet with water and repeat if needed. I recommend holding your breath!
Here fishy fishy fishy! Cleaning aquariums can be a tedious process. Make it easy by removing mineral deposits and water lines by wiping down the empty take with vinegar. Make sure to rinse it out well. If some marks are difficult to get out. Give the aquarium a good over night soak.
Unless you keep flies for pets, you probably don't want them around. Keep those pesky flies away from your animals by spritzing a mixture of vinegar and water around outdoors where your pets play.
Sticking with bugs, lets kill fleas! Fleas are NO fun for your animal and they are more frustrating once they start hopping on your leg and biting you. Kill those fleas without harsh chemicals in your house. Just add a LITTLE vinegar (teaspoonish) to your pet's drinking water. The fleas will chomp in and get a taste of their own medicine. HAHAH!
You love your furry friend... but you may not love the smell they leave behind... say on your carpet! To get rid of that funk.... clean the area and cover it with baking soda. Vacuum it up the next day, then wash the spot again with some vinegar.
If cat litter stinky-ness, pour 1/2 inch of vinegar into empty box and swish it around- let is sit for about 20minutes. Rinse it out and stink should be gone!
If you want to keep your kitty away from sitting places, out of a special area, or scratching stuff.Spray area you want to protect with a vinegar water solution. CATS DO NOT like the smell of vinegar so they will stay away.
Keep fido and kitty looking good and staying out of trouble by using vinegar!
Have a great day!
If you've ever watched Good Morning Northwest or talked to me in person, you know I am an animal nut. I love animals. Unless you count bugs... anyway I love vinegar and I love pets so lets put the two and two together!
Taking care of any kind of animal can be very expensive even if you just stick to the basics. But what pet owner does that? Pets are part of the family, so why wouldn't you want to give your special animal friend the best? The problem is, all those little extras for your pet can add up. That's why I suggest grabbing some vinegar for $1 at the dollar store and give your pet the treatment it deserves... hey they don't know how much it all costs!
Lets start out with the doggies.
Boost your dogs confidence by giving them a glamorous, shiny coat. Mix up one cup vinegar with one quart water in a spray bottle. Spray your pets fur and rub it in. This can also work on horses! NOT the best idea to use on a cat. Cats don't really like vinegar.
Give your dog the help they need and keep those floppy ears from itching! Clean your dogs ears regularly and wipe them out with a washcloth or q-tips soaked in vinegar. This should keep Fido from scratching away.
P.U.!!!!!!!! Did fluffy get skunked?!?! You're pet may have gotten sprayed by a skunk, rolled around in a dead skunk...they might have done something... the point is YOU DON'T CARE WHAT THEY DID.... THEY JUST STINK!!!! Please get rid of that foul smell! Mix a 50-50 solution of vinegar and water and wipe down the animal. I suggest an overall vinegar/water bath. Rinse your pet with water and repeat if needed. I recommend holding your breath!
Here fishy fishy fishy! Cleaning aquariums can be a tedious process. Make it easy by removing mineral deposits and water lines by wiping down the empty take with vinegar. Make sure to rinse it out well. If some marks are difficult to get out. Give the aquarium a good over night soak.
Unless you keep flies for pets, you probably don't want them around. Keep those pesky flies away from your animals by spritzing a mixture of vinegar and water around outdoors where your pets play.
Sticking with bugs, lets kill fleas! Fleas are NO fun for your animal and they are more frustrating once they start hopping on your leg and biting you. Kill those fleas without harsh chemicals in your house. Just add a LITTLE vinegar (teaspoonish) to your pet's drinking water. The fleas will chomp in and get a taste of their own medicine. HAHAH!
You love your furry friend... but you may not love the smell they leave behind... say on your carpet! To get rid of that funk.... clean the area and cover it with baking soda. Vacuum it up the next day, then wash the spot again with some vinegar.
If cat litter stinky-ness, pour 1/2 inch of vinegar into empty box and swish it around- let is sit for about 20minutes. Rinse it out and stink should be gone!
If you want to keep your kitty away from sitting places, out of a special area, or scratching stuff.Spray area you want to protect with a vinegar water solution. CATS DO NOT like the smell of vinegar so they will stay away.
Keep fido and kitty looking good and staying out of trouble by using vinegar!
Have a great day!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
HEALTH AND BEAUTY Vini‑Series- Part 2
Part 2. Beauty is Vin Deep
Here we go. Beauty is only "Vin" deep. Get it... like skin deep?? Only with
vinegar! If you haven't noticed I am spell bound by the miracle of vinegar.
Here are some helpful hints to stay looking fresh and feeling fabulous.
*disclaimer: I have researched uses of vinegar as well as testing some of
the theories. Remember: just because something works for me or a friend
doesn't mean its going to work for you. Just use your head folks*
Beauty can be described in many ways, but in order to look great on the
outside we must feel great on the inside. Staying pretty means staying
healthy and Apple Cider Vinegar (AVC) can do both.
Yes it can taste really horribly disgustingly awful, but no pain NO GAIN!
Just a spoon full of sugar, oh, I mean, vinegar helps the medicine go down!
AVC can help with acne, allergies, the flu, sore throat, allergies,
cholesterol, blood pressure, acid reflux, and food poisoning. In
researching, I've concluded it is a good idea to buy organic AVC, and you
can get it for about $4.
Lets get started with the skin. With all the age defying, wrinkle reduction,
skin firming products, could a solution to better skin be as simple as
vinegar? Yep.
AVC can make your skin feel softer and smoother thanks to the alpha‑hydroxy
acids. Those acids help dissolve fatty substances in the skin.
It can reduce the swelling of varicose veins as it promotes blood
circulation. If you want to reduce em, AVC can help. Dab AVC on a cotton
ball and then gently apply it on the skin. You can also apply the vinegar
directly with your hands. Downing a tablespoon of vinegar daily also can't
hurt.
Use AVC to lightnen age spots . Make sure to cut the vinegar with water !!
Vinegar is ACID and you must dilute it if you are using it on your face. OW!
Vinegar clears the skin by removing all that fun dirt and oily buildup. To
lighten age spots dab vinegar directly on the spot. Leave on over night.
You can also use it as a toner. Why? AVC can help strengthen your skin and
help kick bacteria where it hurts.
Ok you've got the skin under control... now what about that hair?
The acid in vinegar can wash away soapy‑shampooy residue in your hair,
making it a nice rinse product. Dilute AVC then wash away. Doing this can
help make your hair softer and shinier.
Vinegar can also beat off dandruff. Try it out. Dilute first.
Last but not least‑ I have NOT tried this one, but I figured someone has,
let me know if you do!
Massaging your scalp with apple cider vinegar can stimulate hair growth and
thicken your thinning hair.
Now for the Random Beauty helpers:
Pretty nail polish will last longer when you wipe some white distilled
vinegar on your nails before painting.
White distilled vinegar can serve as an aftershave lotion if store bought
aftershave leaves a rash or itchy skin.
Body freckles (not facial freckles) can be lightened by rubbing
full‑strength vinegar on the freckle.
Say bye bye to bad breath an yellowish teeth. Dunk your toothbrush in some
vinegar and brush your pearly whites once or twice a week to get a refreshed
clean smile.
Stinky toes? Vinegar can help de‑funk your feet! Vinegar is a neutralizer
and can help eliminate that odor. Scrub your piggies well, then soak those
pups in cider vinegar for about 10 minutes and enjoy smoother, better
smelling tootsies.
Hairbrush nasty? Well clean it! Soak your brush in vinegar water solution
for a cleaner look.
During the summer you probably have more problems with sunburns and
bugbites, but they can happen year round. To soothe a sunburn or keep a bit
from itching, spray a mist of vinegar on your ailing area to ease the pain.
Dab a bug bite with clothe or cotton ball soaked in vinegar an say goodbye
to itchin and scratchin!
Have fun staying beautiful!
Here we go. Beauty is only "Vin" deep. Get it... like skin deep?? Only with
vinegar! If you haven't noticed I am spell bound by the miracle of vinegar.
Here are some helpful hints to stay looking fresh and feeling fabulous.
*disclaimer: I have researched uses of vinegar as well as testing some of
the theories. Remember: just because something works for me or a friend
doesn't mean its going to work for you. Just use your head folks*
Beauty can be described in many ways, but in order to look great on the
outside we must feel great on the inside. Staying pretty means staying
healthy and Apple Cider Vinegar (AVC) can do both.
Yes it can taste really horribly disgustingly awful, but no pain NO GAIN!
Just a spoon full of sugar, oh, I mean, vinegar helps the medicine go down!
AVC can help with acne, allergies, the flu, sore throat, allergies,
cholesterol, blood pressure, acid reflux, and food poisoning. In
researching, I've concluded it is a good idea to buy organic AVC, and you
can get it for about $4.
Lets get started with the skin. With all the age defying, wrinkle reduction,
skin firming products, could a solution to better skin be as simple as
vinegar? Yep.
AVC can make your skin feel softer and smoother thanks to the alpha‑hydroxy
acids. Those acids help dissolve fatty substances in the skin.
It can reduce the swelling of varicose veins as it promotes blood
circulation. If you want to reduce em, AVC can help. Dab AVC on a cotton
ball and then gently apply it on the skin. You can also apply the vinegar
directly with your hands. Downing a tablespoon of vinegar daily also can't
hurt.
Use AVC to lightnen age spots . Make sure to cut the vinegar with water !!
Vinegar is ACID and you must dilute it if you are using it on your face. OW!
Vinegar clears the skin by removing all that fun dirt and oily buildup. To
lighten age spots dab vinegar directly on the spot. Leave on over night.
You can also use it as a toner. Why? AVC can help strengthen your skin and
help kick bacteria where it hurts.
Ok you've got the skin under control... now what about that hair?
The acid in vinegar can wash away soapy‑shampooy residue in your hair,
making it a nice rinse product. Dilute AVC then wash away. Doing this can
help make your hair softer and shinier.
Vinegar can also beat off dandruff. Try it out. Dilute first.
Last but not least‑ I have NOT tried this one, but I figured someone has,
let me know if you do!
Massaging your scalp with apple cider vinegar can stimulate hair growth and
thicken your thinning hair.
Now for the Random Beauty helpers:
Pretty nail polish will last longer when you wipe some white distilled
vinegar on your nails before painting.
White distilled vinegar can serve as an aftershave lotion if store bought
aftershave leaves a rash or itchy skin.
Body freckles (not facial freckles) can be lightened by rubbing
full‑strength vinegar on the freckle.
Say bye bye to bad breath an yellowish teeth. Dunk your toothbrush in some
vinegar and brush your pearly whites once or twice a week to get a refreshed
clean smile.
Stinky toes? Vinegar can help de‑funk your feet! Vinegar is a neutralizer
and can help eliminate that odor. Scrub your piggies well, then soak those
pups in cider vinegar for about 10 minutes and enjoy smoother, better
smelling tootsies.
Hairbrush nasty? Well clean it! Soak your brush in vinegar water solution
for a cleaner look.
During the summer you probably have more problems with sunburns and
bugbites, but they can happen year round. To soothe a sunburn or keep a bit
from itching, spray a mist of vinegar on your ailing area to ease the pain.
Dab a bug bite with clothe or cotton ball soaked in vinegar an say goodbye
to itchin and scratchin!
Have fun staying beautiful!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Vini-Series Part One!
Well HELLO-
This is my "Vini-Series" I'll have multiple parts on how VINEGAR is da bomb. this is part one
Title: "Vini-Series" Part One. Hang 'em out to dry.
Vinegar is the best thing ever put on this earth. Yes, this is a bold statement. But if you saw all the uses for vinegar you would probably go into shock. Vinegar can do ANYTHING and it does EVERYTHING. I swear it is pure magic. There are so many uses for this simple liquid that it totally fascinates me. I've decided to break up my vinegar tips into a series. We will call it a
"Vini-Series"
I don't really mind doing laundry like some folks. Its they folding, hanging, putting away that I really do not care for. Laundry can be overwhelming so here are a few simple VINEGAR tips that can take a load off your hands (hehe)
**USE WHITE DISTILLED VINEGAR FOR THE FOLLOWING***
A few of these I haven't tried, so if they don't work, try again, or don't get mad!
1. Problem: OOPS! You forgot to take wet laundry out of the machine and it now it smells worse than before.
Solution: Pour a few cups of vinegar in the machine and wash the clothes in hot or cold water. Re-wash with regular detergent and remember to take them out!
*I have done this and left my clothes in the wash for DAYS P-U!! Vinegar really does the trick.
2. Problem: Your clothes are covered with lint.
Solution: Add just about 1/2 cup vinegar the wash. Viola!
3.Problem: You or a loved one sweats (like all humans) and there is a sweaty smell and/or stain in the underarm region.
Solution: Spray or dab full-strength vinegar in the smelly/stained areas then do laundry as normal.
*I'm always hot, and usually a bit sweaty too. TV studios have many lights that can heat up quick. This little vini-ditty does the trick.
4. Problem: Yum, Yum, eating good food.... PLOP. Now you have a not so cute stain.
Solution: When it comes to "red" type stains..ie BBQ sauce, ketchup, spaghetti sauce, even blood (not that you would eat that) rub/spray a vinegar and water solution. For "yellow-ie" stains.. ie mustard, go with vinegar full force.
*Works pretty well
5. Problem: Other kinds of tough stains on some clothing and linens.
Solution: Soak em out, maybe in your bathtub, using equal parts milk and white distilled vinegar.
6. Problem: Too much use for one pair of white socks.
Solution: Get your dirty-looking clean socks looking clean too. Add 1 cup vinegar to a big ol' pot of boiling water, and plop the socks in. Let 'em soak overnight.
7. Problem: Your black clothes look dull from all the washing and left over soap residue.
Solution: Add some vinegar in your final rinse.
8. Problem: Your Iron is nasty.
Solution:
A. Get rid of mineral deposits in steam vents and spray nozzles by filling the water chamber with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Sit it upright and allow it to steam for 5minutes or so. After cooling off, rinse it out and shake it out. Make sure you test it before ironing your best clothes.
B. To remove scorch marks, rub the iron with a vinegar and salt solution. If that doesn’t work, use a cloth soaked vinegar to rub the iron. NOTE: Make sure Iron is off!
9. Problem: You or your kids went to a skating rink, bowling ally, bar, any other smelly-smokey place and now your clothes stink too.
Solution: Remove the stink by steaming your clothes. Fill up a HOT HOT bath tub and pour in some vinegar. Hang up the clothes on the shower rack and close the door. The steam will penetrate the fibers.
10. Problem: Your shoes and boots have water and salt stains.
Solution: Wipe your kicks with a vinegar and water solution.
11. Problem: Your sweaters are limp and lifeless.
Solution: Add 1/2 cup vinegar to the last rinse cycle and fluff up Wool or acrylic sweaters.
12. Problem: You took out the hem of a shirt or pant, now you have visible teeny tiny holes.
Solution: Moisten a cloth with vinegar, place it under the fabric from which the hem you are removing, and iron. Once you take the hem out, shouldn't have any holes left.
*I've never tried this so you might want to research more.
13. Problem: Your bright pink(or other bright color) shirt is dull and listless.
Solution: Add 1/2 cup vinegar to rinse cycle and bright colors blind once again!
14. Problem: Your washing machine is dirty, grimy and has soap scum.
Solution: Run machine wash cycle with no load, but add a 1/2 cup vinegar.
All in all... YOU can get cleaner laundry by simply adding vinegar!
YES it is TRUE! Just adding about 1/4 cup vinegar to your last rinse. Will help kill mold and mildew, prevent yellowing, reduce static, and soften your fabric. WHY you ask? Well, like I said earlier, vinegar is magic. But BESIDES that.... Acid in white distilled vinegar is too mild to harm fabrics. Although, it IS strong enough to dissolve alkalies detergents.
Hope you enjoy washing clothes!
Be sure to come back for more of my Vini-Series!!
This is my "Vini-Series" I'll have multiple parts on how VINEGAR is da bomb. this is part one
Title: "Vini-Series" Part One. Hang 'em out to dry.
Vinegar is the best thing ever put on this earth. Yes, this is a bold statement. But if you saw all the uses for vinegar you would probably go into shock. Vinegar can do ANYTHING and it does EVERYTHING. I swear it is pure magic. There are so many uses for this simple liquid that it totally fascinates me. I've decided to break up my vinegar tips into a series. We will call it a
"Vini-Series"
I don't really mind doing laundry like some folks. Its they folding, hanging, putting away that I really do not care for. Laundry can be overwhelming so here are a few simple VINEGAR tips that can take a load off your hands (hehe)
**USE WHITE DISTILLED VINEGAR FOR THE FOLLOWING***
A few of these I haven't tried, so if they don't work, try again, or don't get mad!
1. Problem: OOPS! You forgot to take wet laundry out of the machine and it now it smells worse than before.
Solution: Pour a few cups of vinegar in the machine and wash the clothes in hot or cold water. Re-wash with regular detergent and remember to take them out!
*I have done this and left my clothes in the wash for DAYS P-U!! Vinegar really does the trick.
2. Problem: Your clothes are covered with lint.
Solution: Add just about 1/2 cup vinegar the wash. Viola!
3.Problem: You or a loved one sweats (like all humans) and there is a sweaty smell and/or stain in the underarm region.
Solution: Spray or dab full-strength vinegar in the smelly/stained areas then do laundry as normal.
*I'm always hot, and usually a bit sweaty too. TV studios have many lights that can heat up quick. This little vini-ditty does the trick.
4. Problem: Yum, Yum, eating good food.... PLOP. Now you have a not so cute stain.
Solution: When it comes to "red" type stains..ie BBQ sauce, ketchup, spaghetti sauce, even blood (not that you would eat that) rub/spray a vinegar and water solution. For "yellow-ie" stains.. ie mustard, go with vinegar full force.
*Works pretty well
5. Problem: Other kinds of tough stains on some clothing and linens.
Solution: Soak em out, maybe in your bathtub, using equal parts milk and white distilled vinegar.
6. Problem: Too much use for one pair of white socks.
Solution: Get your dirty-looking clean socks looking clean too. Add 1 cup vinegar to a big ol' pot of boiling water, and plop the socks in. Let 'em soak overnight.
7. Problem: Your black clothes look dull from all the washing and left over soap residue.
Solution: Add some vinegar in your final rinse.
8. Problem: Your Iron is nasty.
Solution:
A. Get rid of mineral deposits in steam vents and spray nozzles by filling the water chamber with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Sit it upright and allow it to steam for 5minutes or so. After cooling off, rinse it out and shake it out. Make sure you test it before ironing your best clothes.
B. To remove scorch marks, rub the iron with a vinegar and salt solution. If that doesn’t work, use a cloth soaked vinegar to rub the iron. NOTE: Make sure Iron is off!
9. Problem: You or your kids went to a skating rink, bowling ally, bar, any other smelly-smokey place and now your clothes stink too.
Solution: Remove the stink by steaming your clothes. Fill up a HOT HOT bath tub and pour in some vinegar. Hang up the clothes on the shower rack and close the door. The steam will penetrate the fibers.
10. Problem: Your shoes and boots have water and salt stains.
Solution: Wipe your kicks with a vinegar and water solution.
11. Problem: Your sweaters are limp and lifeless.
Solution: Add 1/2 cup vinegar to the last rinse cycle and fluff up Wool or acrylic sweaters.
12. Problem: You took out the hem of a shirt or pant, now you have visible teeny tiny holes.
Solution: Moisten a cloth with vinegar, place it under the fabric from which the hem you are removing, and iron. Once you take the hem out, shouldn't have any holes left.
*I've never tried this so you might want to research more.
13. Problem: Your bright pink(or other bright color) shirt is dull and listless.
Solution: Add 1/2 cup vinegar to rinse cycle and bright colors blind once again!
14. Problem: Your washing machine is dirty, grimy and has soap scum.
Solution: Run machine wash cycle with no load, but add a 1/2 cup vinegar.
All in all... YOU can get cleaner laundry by simply adding vinegar!
YES it is TRUE! Just adding about 1/4 cup vinegar to your last rinse. Will help kill mold and mildew, prevent yellowing, reduce static, and soften your fabric. WHY you ask? Well, like I said earlier, vinegar is magic. But BESIDES that.... Acid in white distilled vinegar is too mild to harm fabrics. Although, it IS strong enough to dissolve alkalies detergents.
Hope you enjoy washing clothes!
Be sure to come back for more of my Vini-Series!!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Dave Matthews Band does it's part to GO GREEN at the Gorge, You can too!
I love music. I could not live with out it. I keep some sort of sound or tune or song on at all times. Music makes my world go round. My Favorite bands are The Beatles and Dave Matthews Band. Besides making incredible music and inspiring many, the Dave Matthews Band (DMB)
is fighting on the front lines for several important issues that face our country and the world.
Not only do I celebrate their music, I believe in many of the same ideals the band strives for, one being saving the Environment. DMB has come up with several promotions to encourage fans and listeners to save earth. Including benefit concerts, cds sales, coordinating massive concert carpooling and now recycling.
If you couldn't score DMB tickets, or didn't want to fork up the dough, volunteering for this recycling program at the Gorge will get you a Free T-shirt and a FREE TICKET to the show!
With hundreds headed to the Gorge Amphitheater over the weekend, recycling might not be a bad idea!
Here is the latest announcement from their webpage:
RECYCLE AT A DMB SHOW, ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FRONT ROW UPGRADE AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE SONGS FROM THE SETLIST!
The Bama Green Project's "So Much to Save" recycling program is going really well thanks to the enthusiastic participation thus far! We've recycled over 15,000 lbs of recycling in just 8 cities!
Please look for the Bama Green, So Much to Save customized recycling stations in the parking lots or at entrances of the venue. Every time you recycle a bottle or can at a So Much to Save location, you'll receive a ballot card with a unique code and a specific website address. Visit the website address after the show, enter your code and you'll be able to vote for your 3 favorite songs from the set list for that show. The winning songs will be included on a live digital album scheduled to be released at the end of the tour. For the participating shows, all recyclers plus the participants in the PickUpPal eco rideshare program will be eligible to win a front row upgrade. Recyclers and PickUpPal participants will be able to visit the IZSTYLE tent at the venue at 7:30 p.m. to determine the winner of the front row upgrade!
RECYCLING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE GORGE AND THE GREEK
MusicMatters, who is coordinating the Bama Green Project's "So Much to Save" Recycling effort, is looking for volunteers for the August 29, 30 & 31 dates at The Gorge Amphitheatre in George, WA and September 5, 6 & 7 at The Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA. If you're interested in helping out with this great initiative and are available beginning in the afternoon of any of those dates, please email Lucy August-Perna at lucy@musicmatters.net. Include a brief blurb (1-2 sentences) about why you'd like to volunteer and what dates you're interested in. If you're selected, someone will contact you with more specific information and confirm your participation. All volunteers will receive a "So Much To Save" t-shirt and free admission to the show!
is fighting on the front lines for several important issues that face our country and the world.
Not only do I celebrate their music, I believe in many of the same ideals the band strives for, one being saving the Environment. DMB has come up with several promotions to encourage fans and listeners to save earth. Including benefit concerts, cds sales, coordinating massive concert carpooling and now recycling.
If you couldn't score DMB tickets, or didn't want to fork up the dough, volunteering for this recycling program at the Gorge will get you a Free T-shirt and a FREE TICKET to the show!
With hundreds headed to the Gorge Amphitheater over the weekend, recycling might not be a bad idea!
Here is the latest announcement from their webpage:
RECYCLE AT A DMB SHOW, ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FRONT ROW UPGRADE AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE SONGS FROM THE SETLIST!
The Bama Green Project's "So Much to Save" recycling program is going really well thanks to the enthusiastic participation thus far! We've recycled over 15,000 lbs of recycling in just 8 cities!
Please look for the Bama Green, So Much to Save customized recycling stations in the parking lots or at entrances of the venue. Every time you recycle a bottle or can at a So Much to Save location, you'll receive a ballot card with a unique code and a specific website address. Visit the website address after the show, enter your code and you'll be able to vote for your 3 favorite songs from the set list for that show. The winning songs will be included on a live digital album scheduled to be released at the end of the tour. For the participating shows, all recyclers plus the participants in the PickUpPal eco rideshare program will be eligible to win a front row upgrade. Recyclers and PickUpPal participants will be able to visit the IZSTYLE tent at the venue at 7:30 p.m. to determine the winner of the front row upgrade!
RECYCLING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE GORGE AND THE GREEK
MusicMatters, who is coordinating the Bama Green Project's "So Much to Save" Recycling effort, is looking for volunteers for the August 29, 30 & 31 dates at The Gorge Amphitheatre in George, WA and September 5, 6 & 7 at The Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA. If you're interested in helping out with this great initiative and are available beginning in the afternoon of any of those dates, please email Lucy August-Perna at lucy@musicmatters.net. Include a brief blurb (1-2 sentences) about why you'd like to volunteer and what dates you're interested in. If you're selected, someone will contact you with more specific information and confirm your participation. All volunteers will receive a "So Much To Save" t-shirt and free admission to the show!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Beat the Bugs
I do not like bugs but bugs love me. They like to enter my home, make me scream and take big bites of my tasty skin. EW!
I squirm and squeal when I'm caught off guard by a big bug. They are gross, but I can't find it in my heart to squish them to death. I've always been sensitive about animals, so after all these years and all the bugs I've seen, if they enter my living quarters, I usually capture them and free them outside.
Yes, I free the bug that caused me so much turmoil and anguish. I do admit to summoning a big strong guy, or whoever is around, to squish the big 'uns. I also admit to committing murder myself, although I try to catch and release but sometimes you have to teach spiders a lesson. GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!
Along with my hatred of bugs, I hate itching. I LOATH bug bites and I have a sincere FEAR of getting West Nile Virus. Mosquito's LOVE my blood. So I think I have good reason to be a bit apprehensive. I seem to get bug bites everywhere from my face to my toes, so you can imagine bug repellent is my friend, I often douse myself in the delightful scent of bug bite freedom.
In my recent efforts to be green, I realized my good friend, OFF, is a chemical queen all wrapped up in a earth-killin' aerosol can. Yikes.
I've searched far and wide (on the internet) for all natural bug repellents. That way you can enjoy mother nature with out getting eaten by her ugly little creatures.
Below are some concoctions and websites where you can go to learn more. Enjoy beating those bugs.
1. Garlic is a good way to scare off vampires, and maybe even a cute date, but it also "bugs" misquotes!
Try mixing one part garlic juice with 5 parts water in a small spray bottle. Shake it up before using then spray lightly on exposed body parts. This will help repel bugs up to 5 - 6 hours. You can also soak strips of cotton cloth in the mix and hang it in places you don't want buggies.
2. The Neem tree from India produces seeds and seed oil that contains sallanin which repels mosquito. Neem oil is natural and is safe to use. You can find Neem oil based products.
3. When you're cooking out and don't want any uninvited buzzing guests, toss some sage or rosemary on the coals. That will help repel mosquitoes.
4. Planting marigolds helps deter pests. Bugs don't like their smell.
5. Rubbing Lavender oil on pulse points can keep the bugs away without keeping friends away too.
6. Plain ol' rubbing alcohol can keep the bigs from biting too. I saw this online from someone who is allergic to mosquito bites. They said once its on, it smells nice (believe it or not) and keeps the bugs away.
7. Want to make your own mix? I found this recipe online.
1/2 ounce citronella oil
1/4 ounce lavender oil
1/8 ounce pennyroyal oil
1/8 ounce tea tree oil
1/8 ounce jojoba oil
**Do not use this blend undiluted on your skin. Follow these instructions for diluting:
To make an insect repellent oil that can be used on your body, add 16 ounces of jojoba or almond oil to the base oil mixture and blend thoroughly. For an insect repellent spray, add 16 ounces of vodka to the base oil mixture, pour into a spray bottle, and shake before using.
A good idea to protect your pretty locks, add base oil to shampoos and liquid soaps.
Two more recipes with essential oils:
Essential Oils: Lemon grass, eucalyptus, castor oil, peppermint, tea tree oil, lavender, cedar, Clove oil and citronella (rose geranium)
SPRAY: Rubbing alcohol (or witch hazel, vodka, or olive oil) mixed with an essential oil with a 10-to-1, alcohol-to-oil ratio. Shake it up before using.
LOTION: 2 ounces distilled water, 2 ounces olive oil, and about 120 drops essential oil. Mix water with a wire whip while drizzling olive oil in. Mix in essential oil.
Here is a website that has lots and lots of great GREEN info:
http://eartheasy.com/live_natpest_control.htm
.
Don't let the bugs BUG you!
MollyO
I squirm and squeal when I'm caught off guard by a big bug. They are gross, but I can't find it in my heart to squish them to death. I've always been sensitive about animals, so after all these years and all the bugs I've seen, if they enter my living quarters, I usually capture them and free them outside.
Yes, I free the bug that caused me so much turmoil and anguish. I do admit to summoning a big strong guy, or whoever is around, to squish the big 'uns. I also admit to committing murder myself, although I try to catch and release but sometimes you have to teach spiders a lesson. GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!
Along with my hatred of bugs, I hate itching. I LOATH bug bites and I have a sincere FEAR of getting West Nile Virus. Mosquito's LOVE my blood. So I think I have good reason to be a bit apprehensive. I seem to get bug bites everywhere from my face to my toes, so you can imagine bug repellent is my friend, I often douse myself in the delightful scent of bug bite freedom.
In my recent efforts to be green, I realized my good friend, OFF, is a chemical queen all wrapped up in a earth-killin' aerosol can. Yikes.
I've searched far and wide (on the internet) for all natural bug repellents. That way you can enjoy mother nature with out getting eaten by her ugly little creatures.
Below are some concoctions and websites where you can go to learn more. Enjoy beating those bugs.
1. Garlic is a good way to scare off vampires, and maybe even a cute date, but it also "bugs" misquotes!
Try mixing one part garlic juice with 5 parts water in a small spray bottle. Shake it up before using then spray lightly on exposed body parts. This will help repel bugs up to 5 - 6 hours. You can also soak strips of cotton cloth in the mix and hang it in places you don't want buggies.
2. The Neem tree from India produces seeds and seed oil that contains sallanin which repels mosquito. Neem oil is natural and is safe to use. You can find Neem oil based products.
3. When you're cooking out and don't want any uninvited buzzing guests, toss some sage or rosemary on the coals. That will help repel mosquitoes.
4. Planting marigolds helps deter pests. Bugs don't like their smell.
5. Rubbing Lavender oil on pulse points can keep the bugs away without keeping friends away too.
6. Plain ol' rubbing alcohol can keep the bigs from biting too. I saw this online from someone who is allergic to mosquito bites. They said once its on, it smells nice (believe it or not) and keeps the bugs away.
7. Want to make your own mix? I found this recipe online.
1/2 ounce citronella oil
1/4 ounce lavender oil
1/8 ounce pennyroyal oil
1/8 ounce tea tree oil
1/8 ounce jojoba oil
**Do not use this blend undiluted on your skin. Follow these instructions for diluting:
To make an insect repellent oil that can be used on your body, add 16 ounces of jojoba or almond oil to the base oil mixture and blend thoroughly. For an insect repellent spray, add 16 ounces of vodka to the base oil mixture, pour into a spray bottle, and shake before using.
A good idea to protect your pretty locks, add base oil to shampoos and liquid soaps.
Two more recipes with essential oils:
Essential Oils: Lemon grass, eucalyptus, castor oil, peppermint, tea tree oil, lavender, cedar, Clove oil and citronella (rose geranium)
SPRAY: Rubbing alcohol (or witch hazel, vodka, or olive oil) mixed with an essential oil with a 10-to-1, alcohol-to-oil ratio. Shake it up before using.
LOTION: 2 ounces distilled water, 2 ounces olive oil, and about 120 drops essential oil. Mix water with a wire whip while drizzling olive oil in. Mix in essential oil.
Here is a website that has lots and lots of great GREEN info:
http://eartheasy.com/live_natpest_control.htm
.
Don't let the bugs BUG you!
MollyO
Monday, August 11, 2008
Plastic is sooo last season
Plastic is sooooo out this season! EW... who uses plastic bags anyway?? That was sooo last year and every year before that. Reusable bags are in! Anything goes in the grocery store! Beach bags, back packs, aundry bags, old shopping bags, HECK! I even used a pillow case the other day!
I have been so pleasantly surprised at the GROWING number of shoppers I have seen packing up their REUSABLE bags! GREAT JOB FOLKS! Keep up the good work! As I walk out of the store, I notice more and more people having these reusuable bags. Its fantastic. If you haven't caught onto the trend, COME ON! Not only will you look environmentally AWARE, you will save money! Many stores offer a discount if you bring your own shopping bag in. Some stores even offer a per-bag discount. With gas and food prices obnoxiously high, every penny counts right? If saving money doesn't appeal to you, how about PAYING money to use paper or plastic? In recent weeks Seattle passed a 20-cent tax green fee which will be implemented starting next year on each plastic or paper grocery bag used.
Lets do the math.... If you take home 3-5 bags of groceries(or just grocery bags) per week... that is 12-20 per month. 12-20 X $0.20 = $2.40- $4.00 extra per month. $2.40- $4.00 X 12 months = $28.80- $48.00 PER YEAR just on the actual stinking bags alone!
When Ireland put on a tax in, they saw a 95% decrease in their use. That's big.
Don't get caught up in the frustration of taxes, think of it as a fun way to save money, or create bags with your family and friends. Any ol' bag will do, you can make them on your own or buy them at stores. Several grocery stores sell their own bags now for a low fee, even Target is getting into the swing of things by selling bags made out of recycled Target bags. (fused together) And if you have a trillion plastic bags under your sink, you can make your own bag too!
Check out:
http://etsylabs.blogspot.com/2007/05/long-overdue-fusing-plastic-bag.html
http:www.instructables.com/id/Make-your-own-plastic-tote-bag-from-recycled-plast/
Also try this fun and Chic eco website: http://www.idealbite.com/
Another Helpful website is:
http://www.reusablebags.com/
Green it up!
Molly O
I have been so pleasantly surprised at the GROWING number of shoppers I have seen packing up their REUSABLE bags! GREAT JOB FOLKS! Keep up the good work! As I walk out of the store, I notice more and more people having these reusuable bags. Its fantastic. If you haven't caught onto the trend, COME ON! Not only will you look environmentally AWARE, you will save money! Many stores offer a discount if you bring your own shopping bag in. Some stores even offer a per-bag discount. With gas and food prices obnoxiously high, every penny counts right? If saving money doesn't appeal to you, how about PAYING money to use paper or plastic? In recent weeks Seattle passed a 20-cent tax green fee which will be implemented starting next year on each plastic or paper grocery bag used.
Lets do the math.... If you take home 3-5 bags of groceries(or just grocery bags) per week... that is 12-20 per month. 12-20 X $0.20 = $2.40- $4.00 extra per month. $2.40- $4.00 X 12 months = $28.80- $48.00 PER YEAR just on the actual stinking bags alone!
When Ireland put on a tax in, they saw a 95% decrease in their use. That's big.
Don't get caught up in the frustration of taxes, think of it as a fun way to save money, or create bags with your family and friends. Any ol' bag will do, you can make them on your own or buy them at stores. Several grocery stores sell their own bags now for a low fee, even Target is getting into the swing of things by selling bags made out of recycled Target bags. (fused together) And if you have a trillion plastic bags under your sink, you can make your own bag too!
Check out:
http://etsylabs.blogspot.com/2007/05/long-overdue-fusing-plastic-bag.html
http:www.instructables.com/id/Make-your-own-plastic-tote-bag-from-recycled-plast/
Also try this fun and Chic eco website: http://www.idealbite.com/
Another Helpful website is:
http://www.reusablebags.com/
Green it up!
Molly O
Get a green thumb, and body, and mouth
You can look at Going Green in many ways. While it just may not be feasible to have the GREEN take over your life, some small changes are possible. To those who say, "I'm just one person, my stuff doesn't matter" you are wrong. Every bit counts. So QUIT USING THAT AS AN EXCUSE!!!
Lets start with something easy you can do to help good ol Mama Earth. No matter who you are, man, woman or child, everyone needs to think about PERSONAL HYGIENE. We use all kinds of toxic chemicals and plastic items on our most prized possession, our bodies! Do you really want to drown your skin in products whose ingredients will NEVER decompose?? That just doesn't sound right to me. I mean we are talking about everyday items like shower gel, hand soap and toothpaste!
I've recently seen multiple "green" products appear and even at a lower cost than in earlier years. There are LOTS AND LOTS of brands/products/items I could talk about here, so lets keep a focus and I will talk about one brand for now that ROCKS in every category.
I need to declare my love for Tom, Tom's of Maine that is. Check out www.tomsofmaine.com Tom's is pretty much a Green Stud. The whole company does everything it can to not only make and create natural care products, but they do it in an energy efficient building, and put it in recyclable packaging. You can be sure that ZERO animal ingredients were used, and NO animal testing was performed if you buy a Tom's of Maine product. When you are all done with the product, you can recycle the container! If your neighborhood doesn't do a certain type of recycling, send the packaging back to Tom's and they will be happy to do it for you.
To prove how amazing this company is here is a direct quote taken from their website
"We do this by creating safe, effective natural products free of artificial dyes, sweeteners, and preservatives; by harvesting, processing, and packaging with respect for our natural resources; by not testing on animals or using animal ingredients; and by donating 10% of our profits and 5% of our employees' paid time to charitable organizations."
WOW.
Some more details on that...
They use wind energy. They use all energy-saving lighting. They recycle aluminum tubes, cardboard, folding cartons, mixed paper, and even challenging items such as shrink wrap.
They also:
* Use vegetable-based inks on all packaging
* Wrap their bar soaps in biodegradable cellulose made from wood fibers
* Created a deodorant stick made of just a single plastic (#5 polypropylene) so that it can be recycled- according to their website, this is "the first of its kind in the industry and a container that is even stronger and more reliable than the old nonrecyclable version!"
Its amazing to find a company that strives to be environmentally friendly and aware in just about every aspect of their business.
One product I enjoy is the toothpaste. You may think it tastes a bit off, but in reality it is just clean and natural! According to their website, sweeteners used in other toothpastes (saccharin) are about 400 times as sweet as sugar. WOAH! Tom's doesn't use But we use artificial preservatives so their toothpaste doesn't taste as sweet. After using it for a few days you don't really notice the difference until you maybe pick up an old tube and start brushing. The difference kicks in then! You can almost feel the sugar scratching on your teeth after brushing with artificially sweetened stuff. BLEAH!
Tom's started small (still family owned) and has grow over the years but still keeps core values. They have multiple products so I encourage you to find them in the drug store visit their website at www.tomsofmaine.com .
Enjoy a greener, healthier lifestyle!
Molly O
Lets start with something easy you can do to help good ol Mama Earth. No matter who you are, man, woman or child, everyone needs to think about PERSONAL HYGIENE. We use all kinds of toxic chemicals and plastic items on our most prized possession, our bodies! Do you really want to drown your skin in products whose ingredients will NEVER decompose?? That just doesn't sound right to me. I mean we are talking about everyday items like shower gel, hand soap and toothpaste!
I've recently seen multiple "green" products appear and even at a lower cost than in earlier years. There are LOTS AND LOTS of brands/products/items I could talk about here, so lets keep a focus and I will talk about one brand for now that ROCKS in every category.
I need to declare my love for Tom, Tom's of Maine that is. Check out www.tomsofmaine.com Tom's is pretty much a Green Stud. The whole company does everything it can to not only make and create natural care products, but they do it in an energy efficient building, and put it in recyclable packaging. You can be sure that ZERO animal ingredients were used, and NO animal testing was performed if you buy a Tom's of Maine product. When you are all done with the product, you can recycle the container! If your neighborhood doesn't do a certain type of recycling, send the packaging back to Tom's and they will be happy to do it for you.
To prove how amazing this company is here is a direct quote taken from their website
"We do this by creating safe, effective natural products free of artificial dyes, sweeteners, and preservatives; by harvesting, processing, and packaging with respect for our natural resources; by not testing on animals or using animal ingredients; and by donating 10% of our profits and 5% of our employees' paid time to charitable organizations."
WOW.
Some more details on that...
They use wind energy. They use all energy-saving lighting. They recycle aluminum tubes, cardboard, folding cartons, mixed paper, and even challenging items such as shrink wrap.
They also:
* Use vegetable-based inks on all packaging
* Wrap their bar soaps in biodegradable cellulose made from wood fibers
* Created a deodorant stick made of just a single plastic (#5 polypropylene) so that it can be recycled- according to their website, this is "the first of its kind in the industry and a container that is even stronger and more reliable than the old nonrecyclable version!"
Its amazing to find a company that strives to be environmentally friendly and aware in just about every aspect of their business.
One product I enjoy is the toothpaste. You may think it tastes a bit off, but in reality it is just clean and natural! According to their website, sweeteners used in other toothpastes (saccharin) are about 400 times as sweet as sugar. WOAH! Tom's doesn't use But we use artificial preservatives so their toothpaste doesn't taste as sweet. After using it for a few days you don't really notice the difference until you maybe pick up an old tube and start brushing. The difference kicks in then! You can almost feel the sugar scratching on your teeth after brushing with artificially sweetened stuff. BLEAH!
Tom's started small (still family owned) and has grow over the years but still keeps core values. They have multiple products so I encourage you to find them in the drug store visit their website at www.tomsofmaine.com .
Enjoy a greener, healthier lifestyle!
Molly O
Thursday, July 10, 2008
BEE GREEN
I love the Pacific Northwest. During the summertime its a little easier to say such things.... but all in all the PNW is my home. That being said, geeze, a big huge deep breath of Washington air can cure just about anything! Except for a bee sting. Yesterday I had a not so enjoyable experience. As I lounged around, pool side, slathered from head to toe in sun block, I was just getting into my new book..... when all of a sudden... WHAM!!!! A shooting pain in my right tri-cep. I yelped and quickly grabbed my arm, just in time to see the culprit buzz away. I was flabbergasted. Did I just get stung by a bee?? I was a bit shocked and confused (rightly so in my newly injured state) because I haven't been stung by a bee in YEARS! I didn't really know what the heck happened but as soon as a white semicircular lump swelled up to the surface of my arm. I rationed that my arm had been the direct target of a sting and fly (hit and run) crime. Much like a drive-by....stinging, that is.
I quickly applied my frosty cold water bottle to the back of my arm and pondered whether or not I should resume reading outside, or make my way indoors where bug life is limited. I packed up and went in.
After a tumultuous day I realized it might be helpful to provide others with bee sting home remedies. Even better if they are all natural...... or GREEN!
Bee Sting Home Remedies-
1. Abstinence from bees and their stingers is always the best option.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar. I tell you vinegar does EVERYTHING. I am obsessed at the WIDE variety of uses for this substance. Anyway mix the two into a paste and apply directly to the sting.
3. Toothpaste can relieve the pain quick and get rid of that itchy feeling.
4. Plantain (Found on learningherbs.com)
Plantain is by one definition on dictionary.com: A plant; mostly small roadside or dooryard weeds with elliptic leaves and small spikes of very small flowers; seeds of some used medicinally.
You can see it popping up in between cracks of your driveway and sidewalks. Below are the directions on how to relieve your pain. I took this directly off learningherbs.com website.
1. Pick a few leaves of plantain from a clean source. Try to gather it away from the side of the road. Also away from places where chemicals are sprayed. HOWEVER, it an emergency, you get it where you can get it.
2. Chew the leaves up real good keeping the plant matter and saliva in the FRONT of your mouth.
3. Spit it out on to your bee or wasp sting site.
4. Hold it on the sting site for a few minutes until you feel relief. Repeat if necessary.
I hope these simple remedies can be of some help to you. Don't let the bees burden your time spent outdoors!
I quickly applied my frosty cold water bottle to the back of my arm and pondered whether or not I should resume reading outside, or make my way indoors where bug life is limited. I packed up and went in.
After a tumultuous day I realized it might be helpful to provide others with bee sting home remedies. Even better if they are all natural...... or GREEN!
Bee Sting Home Remedies-
1. Abstinence from bees and their stingers is always the best option.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar. I tell you vinegar does EVERYTHING. I am obsessed at the WIDE variety of uses for this substance. Anyway mix the two into a paste and apply directly to the sting.
3. Toothpaste can relieve the pain quick and get rid of that itchy feeling.
4. Plantain (Found on learningherbs.com)
Plantain is by one definition on dictionary.com: A plant; mostly small roadside or dooryard weeds with elliptic leaves and small spikes of very small flowers; seeds of some used medicinally.
You can see it popping up in between cracks of your driveway and sidewalks. Below are the directions on how to relieve your pain. I took this directly off learningherbs.com website.
1. Pick a few leaves of plantain from a clean source. Try to gather it away from the side of the road. Also away from places where chemicals are sprayed. HOWEVER, it an emergency, you get it where you can get it.
2. Chew the leaves up real good keeping the plant matter and saliva in the FRONT of your mouth.
3. Spit it out on to your bee or wasp sting site.
4. Hold it on the sting site for a few minutes until you feel relief. Repeat if necessary.
I hope these simple remedies can be of some help to you. Don't let the bees burden your time spent outdoors!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Cooling Down
After what seemed like the never ending winter, summertime in the Northwest is FINALLY here! (yippee!) If you are like me, then you look forward to warmer temperatures and clear blue skies during the months of July, August, and even September. Growing up in the great PNW I truly believe there is nothing better than a summer day in Washington. A deep breath of fresh air to start the morning, a relaxing boat ride with a hot breeze wisping through your hair, and BBQin barefoot with shorts and a tank top on is what my summer days consist of. Those summer days never seem to end with daylight lasting until 10pm. While a long day enjoying bright sunshine seems dream-like after so many dark days of winter, hot temperatures can take a toll on our body, and our energy bill. We've seen record breaking temperatures across the northwest and cranking up the AC seems like the best quick fix. As temps continue to rise, your carbon emissions and energy consumption can sky rocket as well. I've included some helpful hints on cooling down this summer.... the GREEN WAY! Remember, just like anything, AC in moderation is ok. Why not try out some other methods for cooling down?
Looking for a quick easy fix? Wash your hands! By placing dabs of cool water on your wrist or other pulse points can help lower your body's core temp.
Ceiling fans can be great during the summertime, making a whole room much cooler. Make sure you are cooling things down by checking the fan's rotation direction. You want the fan to blow air down. This is usually indicated by the fan blades moving counter-clockwise if you are standing underneath.
If you aren't sold on the Fan idea... get this. Fans use 90% energy than central air, and they can make room feel up to TEN DEGREES COOLER!
Clothing options can cool you off as well. Wear loose fitting and lighter colored clothing to feel cooler. Linens made from natural fabric, cotton, help pull away moisture from your body cooling you down.
Unplugging appliances doesn't just cut costs, it cools your home down! TVs, computers, VCRs and more give off heat even when they are not in use. By plugging these into a power strip and flipping the switch off, or simply unplugging the appliance, you can reduce the temp of your home.
Turn off the "drying cycle" on your dishwasher!!!! Your dishes can air dry! If you air dry clothes (good bye dryer!) they will actually last longer.
Using the microwave instead of the oven can keep temperatures down.
By using CLF (compact fluorescent lights) you can keep the temperatures down. I use CFLs in my bathroom to help keep the heat down. After a hot shower, blow drying my hair and turning on a straightener, CFLs make a huge difference.
Make sure to keep windows closed at the hottest part of the day. If you open a window, open another one to create a cross breeze. Believe it or not, a breeze of just 1MPH can make you feel up to 4 degrees cooler!
I'll end with one of my favorite tricks for beating the heat while snoozing. Place a cool, damp wash cloth on your forehead and turn out the light. This will help keep you cool, even more so with a fan blowing on your face!
If you have any tips for cooling off and staying green please comment or email me at MollyO@kvewtv.com
Happy cooling!
Looking for a quick easy fix? Wash your hands! By placing dabs of cool water on your wrist or other pulse points can help lower your body's core temp.
Ceiling fans can be great during the summertime, making a whole room much cooler. Make sure you are cooling things down by checking the fan's rotation direction. You want the fan to blow air down. This is usually indicated by the fan blades moving counter-clockwise if you are standing underneath.
If you aren't sold on the Fan idea... get this. Fans use 90% energy than central air, and they can make room feel up to TEN DEGREES COOLER!
Clothing options can cool you off as well. Wear loose fitting and lighter colored clothing to feel cooler. Linens made from natural fabric, cotton, help pull away moisture from your body cooling you down.
Unplugging appliances doesn't just cut costs, it cools your home down! TVs, computers, VCRs and more give off heat even when they are not in use. By plugging these into a power strip and flipping the switch off, or simply unplugging the appliance, you can reduce the temp of your home.
Turn off the "drying cycle" on your dishwasher!!!! Your dishes can air dry! If you air dry clothes (good bye dryer!) they will actually last longer.
Using the microwave instead of the oven can keep temperatures down.
By using CLF (compact fluorescent lights) you can keep the temperatures down. I use CFLs in my bathroom to help keep the heat down. After a hot shower, blow drying my hair and turning on a straightener, CFLs make a huge difference.
Make sure to keep windows closed at the hottest part of the day. If you open a window, open another one to create a cross breeze. Believe it or not, a breeze of just 1MPH can make you feel up to 4 degrees cooler!
I'll end with one of my favorite tricks for beating the heat while snoozing. Place a cool, damp wash cloth on your forehead and turn out the light. This will help keep you cool, even more so with a fan blowing on your face!
If you have any tips for cooling off and staying green please comment or email me at MollyO@kvewtv.com
Happy cooling!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
4th of July Fun!
Hello Friends! With the 4th of July quickly approaching there are TONS of fun things to do heading into the weekend! We might see some breezy to windy conditions by Friday, so if you are planning on celebrating our great nations independence with fireworks, please use extreme caution.
With that said- let's get to the fun stuff! The Tri City Dust Devils were kind enough to allow our Good Morning Northwest viewers and me to wake up in Gesa Stadium this morning. A big thanks to Brent Miller, Monica Ortega, Erik the Peanut Guy and Dusty for showing us a good time and continuing to put forth all of their energy to entertain and please fans.
With ridiculously high gas prices and the struggling economy, one might think attending a sporting event isn't feasible on a budget, but good news...it IS! Tickets for children and seniors start at $4 and adults at $5. There's also quality entertainment throughout the game, making it a fun night out for the family. Not to mention Dusty is one wild Dust Devil! He had me laughing non stop!
We had so much fun playing a little ball, doing the chicken dance, eating sunflower seeds and goofing around with Dusty. With fantastically warm weather and (partly) clear skies, this morning couldn't have been better. I've included a few pictures from our time at Gesa Stadium. Enjoy!
-MOB
Monday, June 30, 2008
Welcome to On The Green With Molly O......
As a person who is continuously following the weather, its obvious things have been a bit wacky in recent times. I realize the importance of helping the environment and choose to live "green" to the best of my ability. Regardless if you believe in Global Warming or not, doing things the green way can save you money, keep you healthy, and provide some family fun!
And so I'd like to welcome you to my blog "On the Green with Molly O" focused on a Green way of living! I will also blog on other activities going on in my life, as well as random thoughts floating through my brain. Make sure to check in for pictures and new fun ways to incorporate Going Green into your life!
Also feel free to email in your own ideas on going green, the weather, or anything else!
Thanks,
Molly O
mollyo@kvewtv.com
And so I'd like to welcome you to my blog "On the Green with Molly O" focused on a Green way of living! I will also blog on other activities going on in my life, as well as random thoughts floating through my brain. Make sure to check in for pictures and new fun ways to incorporate Going Green into your life!
Also feel free to email in your own ideas on going green, the weather, or anything else!
Thanks,
Molly O
mollyo@kvewtv.com
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