Autumnrainbow's TreeHugger TreeLover Blog

$6 for $26 worth of sweets at online deal site !

2010-11-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

The site is http://www.jasmere.com/r/7777b14a?l and use code SF42A79BF9 to get $5 off. This is a great deal ! The current deal for tasty sweets is down to $11 (and could go lower because the more people buy it the lower it goes) so it is only $6 for the $26 voucher when you use this code.

Code is valid until 12-1-10

Please sign up through my link so I will get credit !

Thanks !

Candida Diet / What I've been eating lately

2010-05-10T18:13:00.000-07:00

I made the almond butter blondies from The Spunky Coconut Cookbook (I see the brownies on her blog, but the blondies may be cookbook only (www.thespunkycoconut.com) . I made them with carob chips due to my chocolate allergy.

This weekend I also made a vegan veggie whip with carrots, turnips, onions, vegan vegetable spread and almond milk. It was delicious.

Tonight I am making "fake" tuna salad with chickpeas, onions, and celery (and seasonings and LOTS of veganaise ) for lunches for the weak.

Cooked tilapia (fish is the only meat I eat) and celery fries in the oven for dinner. Not a fan of the celery fries. They were suggested as a french fry substitute on www.wholeapproach.com, but they are not working out for me. There are some great recipes on there though, celery is just not my favorite.

Sometimes I make some flourless almond butter cookies with a recipe from the www.wholeapproach.com forums. They are really good. Basically just some egg (or substitute) almond butter, bit of water, stevia and vanilla and you are good to go. Bake quickly. They are a bit crumbly and dry, but I usually dip them in almond milk when I have them. Very filling !

I am also doing protein smoothies with Rainbow Light's vanilla protein energizer (sweetened only with stevia), sometimes some maca powder from www.nudefood.com , and coconut or almond milk for the base. Very good and so healthy !

I also made an AMAZING coconut milk curry with cauliflower and zucchini. I used a whole can of coconut milk, making it very RICH, but also very good. Maybe next time a half of a can will do, but it was good that way.

I also make a chia seed pudding with chia seeds from www.nudefood.com . It is soo easy ! Mix two or three tablespoons chia seed with a cup of milk (almond, rice, soy or cow - your choice) , a bit of stevia (or other sweetener) and some vanilla and cinnamon. Stir it after an hour or two and let it set overnight. So good and healthy ! Love it ! Raw amazement !

Just wanted to share some of my wacky diet. I am coping better than I was and enjoying learning new recipes ! Sure they are for candida, but everyone could benefit because they are sugar free and just sooo healthy !

Best Deals of the Week On Garden Girl Skincare Products

2009-08-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

This week if you sign up for email on www.gardengirlskincare.com you will get 10 percent off, plus free shipping. This is a great time to try Garden Girl Skincare ! Please use LindseyC as your consultant when you check out.

I wanted to highlight some of my favorite products and the best deals on the site.

You save 20 percent on your choice of four face care products in the Kit + Kaboodle deluxe kit.
http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14_20&products_id=207

Pick a cleanser, exfoliater, toner and moisturizer. Use the coupon code to save even more and get free shipping.

The Double Duty eyecream is a great choice for treatment, whether in the kit or by itself http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_5&products_id=192 . It brightens, rejuvenates and fights dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles. It is an all in one product for your eyes. What a great idea ! This product does what you would need three or four other products to do. It is generously sized and will last four to six months before needing to be replaced. Considering all of the features, it is a great deal.

I also recommend the You're Fresh Herbal Face Cleanser as part of the set or individually. It retails for only $25 and you save twenty percent when it is purchased as part of the set.

It is super concentrated. Only two squirts will clean your entire face. It will also last four to six months, making it a very good deal. I have had cheap $10 bottles of cleansers that were gone in a month. That is not a deal ! It has tea tree oil and lavender, with antibacterial properties as well as aloe to moisturize while cleansing.

As far as moisturizer , there are options for dry/sensitive or all skin types, as well as on specifically targeted to brighten. http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=6 These are a great deal. Each jar will last nearly three months, and an ecofriendly refill can be purchased at a discount price when you run out. This makes it an even better deal in the longrun ! Awesome !

Another product I want to mention is the microdermabrasion scrub. It retails for $38.00 and lasts four to six months. It is much more affordable than most microdermabrasions which retail for around $50-$75. http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_4&products_id=184

This is a great product, because it removes the dead skin cells which clog pores and cause imperfections. It will leave your face brighter, clearer and decrease lines and wrinkles. I saw immediate results the first time I used it and if you use it weekly the results will be apparent.

Garden Girl's products are thoroughly tested for effectiveness and use premium ingredients at an affordable cost. If compared to high end cosmetics, they are a much better deal and better for your skin. Without parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals or pthalates, they are safer and more effective than traditional skincare lines. They also have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Kristin, the founder, has assured me that they rarely get returns and that everyone gives glowing reviews of the products. This is a small company that you can put your trust in. Please message me for more information or product info and reference me as your consultant when you shop online at www.gardengirlskincare.com

2009-07-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

I will meet you in the DFW area to deliver if you want to place an order this week! Just email me at LindseyC@gardengirlskincare.com

I am making an order next week and trying to gather some orders up.

Also, if you wish to order online, yo ucan sign up on the website for coupon codes. You will recieve discounts every week. This week the discount is twenty five percent off cleansers, which is great. The herbal face cleanser You're Fresh Herbal Face Cleanser [fresh] - $8.00 : Paraben Free Skincare Natural Skin Care Products Paraben Free Products, by Garden Girl Skincare is $25 so after the discount it would be $18.75 plus tax and shipping for you.

Wow ! I estimate it is a six month supply, because it only takes three squirts to cleanse your face. A small amount is the perfect amount, because it is concentrated.

That is going to be just over $3 a month for paraben, pthalate and sulfate free cleanser. That is a really good deal ! I know a lot of natural cleansers you will spend much more for less product. This is just a great deal on cleanser !

If you shop online please put Lindsey Coddington as your consultant.

Organizer BusyBodyFamily Planner Giveaway Sweet !

2009-07-22T18:20:00.001-07:00

http://sweeps4bloggers.blogspot.com/2009/07/busybody.html

Cool Jams Pajamas Giveaway Check it out !

2009-07-22T18:16:00.000-07:00

http://sweeps4bloggers.blogspot.com/2009/07/cool-jams.html

Free U.S. Shipping In My etsy shop - Vintage Jewelry Cheap !

2009-07-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

FREE SHIPPING IN U.S. ON 17 items in my etsy shop. Very inexpensive PIF items for most. Low Prices. Free gift with two item purchase and extra Free Gifts with $20 purchase. Tell your friends. I need to clear out, my item listings are coming up and I do not have the time or money to relist right now. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5598830&order=price_asc&section_id=&page=2

Thai Kitchen Lemongrass and Chili Stir Fry Rice Noodles

2009-07-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

These are very awesome ! I highly recommend them for a quick dinner. They are not only vegan, but also gluten free.

The package recommends stir frying the noodles with chicken, tofu, or beef. I used tofu. I got the firm kind, but I think the extra firm would have worked best. I just used it, because it was what I had on hand. It turned out great. The tofu crumbled a bit, but the taste was fabulous.

The only difference I made to the package instructions was to cook the tofu in chili powder, instead of just in the oil. I think this made it a bit spicier, but it was so good !

A wok is best for stir frying, of course. You can typically find one for a relatively low price at walmart, target or your local department store.

I got mine at whole foods for around $2.39 I believe after a $1 coupon found on the package. Without the couple they would be over $3, but still not bad for a two person meal. Add in a package of tofu for under $2 and a couple of fresh veggies and it is a great inexpensive, healthy and quick meal.

When purchased on amazon.com, they come to $2.55 a box for a pack of twelve boxes... not bad !

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GZSE6Q

If you just want a box to try and don't live near a store than carries them try http://www.naturalgrocers.com/lemongrass_amp_chili_noodles_by_thai_kitchen_5_3_oz_item_150647-p-10508.html They are only $2.70.

http://www.thaikitchen.com/storelocations.html There are store locations nationwide and in Mexico.

Link to Pthalate Free Companies

2009-07-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.thinkbeforeyoupink.org/Pages/PhthalateFree.html

I checked the paraben and pthalate free lists. The pthalate free list seems more comprehensive, because everything in contains seems to be also on the paraben free list. Although the paraben free list contains brands that may not be completely pthalate free.

So , when shopping for natural products, this is the list I would use as a source.

Garden Girl Skincare Sets

2009-07-21T07:23:00.001-07:00

Another Garden Girl Update: Remember to use Lindsey Coddington as your consultant, in the consultant box when you check out.

Garden Girl Offers Three Levels of Customizable Skincare Sets to Save you Money !

1. Nitty Gritty Face Committee 10 % Savings !
http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=229:c34df06c0496cdefaa0687ada3963f7b

Starts at $73 and includes one accessory of your choice, toner, cleanser and moisturizer.

2. Face it 15 % Savings !

http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=206:3a3a7f08ecf40d6465762b2b2eeba56d

Starts at $98 and includes cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and exfoliant

3. Kit + Kaboodle 20 % Savings !

http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=207:2d9d7020971319ff737c4fbaa5ff78e0

Starts at $117 and includes cleanser, toner, moisturizer, exfoliant and a choice of eye cream or antiaging serum

Review of Garden Girl Microdermabrasion and Explanation of Use

2009-07-16T07:49:00.000-07:00

The Starting Over microdermabrasian from Garden Girl Skincare rivals any I have seen, in terms of price and quality. The natural ingredients distinguish it from others and make it a great choice ! If you are currently using another microdermabrasion, consider switching. Or if you are new to concept, consider adding it to your skincare routine.

http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_4&products_id=184 Remember to put Lindsey Coddington as your consultant if you order online. You can always contact me with questions at LindseyC@gardengirlskincare.com

This product is great for all skin types, except for sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin and want to take advantage of its fabulous exfoliation properties, then just use it with water. This is what I do. If your skin is not sensitive you can use it on a dry face, but I think it is a bit harsh typically.

Here is my procedure for use.

1. Cleanse with Garden Girl's You're Fresh Herbal Face Cleanser.
2. Leaving a little water on skin, pat dry.
3. Take a dime size amount of microdermabrasion cream and spread over the face. If you need more you can always add it, but don't overdo it. Most garden Girl products are highly concentrated, it only takes a little.
4. Use your fingers to scrub your face with the cream. Work in a circular and upward motion. Remember when using any type of moisturizer you want to work it in , using an upward motion as well. This is like giving yourself a mini face lift.
5. Rinse off
6. Spray or dab on Even StepHen toner with a cotton pad or reusable cloth pad.
7. Moisturize with Nature Nurture or No Worries Skincream from Garden Girl . No worries is for sensitive skin and Nature Nurture is for all skin types, besides sensitive.

This microdermabrasion is effective at clearing pores and removing impurities. It will reduce lines and wrinkles and it makes your face so bright and fresh ! I love it !

Garden Girl 2 oz Jar $38.00 (Refill $28.00) = Two Jars for an average of $33 each , $16.50an ounce. Remember the initial is higher, but with each refill you purchase your per ounce cost is decreasing.

Thinking about content, most microdermabrasions will contain parabens or other harsh preservatives, to keep the contents safe from bacteria. Garden girl only uses safe paraben-free prerservative in minimal amounts. Therefore, the product is safe for use in terms of prohibiting bacterial growth and in terms of ingredients. Many products it is almost impossible to even find a list of the ingredients, unless you have the product in your hand (and even then it can be hard !)

Check out Garden Girl's ingredient glossary. http://www.2dogsdesign.com/gardengirl/ingredients.pdf

It explains what every ingredient is and does ! What a great resource ! Why do other companies not provide this item? Maybe it is because they do not want you to think about what is in their products !

Even companies that seem natural like Origins may contain parabens, pthalates, sulfates or petrochemicals. Origins is under Estee Lauder and they have refused to sign the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Why would a company refuse unless they had something unsafe in their products?

I hope that this provides a good explanation of the Starting Over Microdermabrasion and why it is an awesome consumer decision on your part ! Enjoy !

Garden Girl Skincare Free Shipping This Week

2009-07-12T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hello !

Time for another Garden Girl Product update !

Go to www.gardengirlskincare.com and sign up for email, to get all kinds of special offers ! This week the offer is free shipping ! Sign up for details !

Remember to put Lindsey Coddington as your consultant when you check out !

Wondering what to order ? First time ordering ? Test out the skincare basics with the skincare trial size set ! http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_19&products_id=208

Or trust my word that you are going to love it, and go for the whole kit ! You save twenty percent with the Kit + Kaboodle Set http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_19&products_id=207 .

Get a choice of cleanser, an exfoliater (starting over microdermabrasion or fruit acid gel , even StepHen Toner, your choice of moisturizer , and a choice of two eye creams or an antiaging serum.

What a great way to really get it all ! Everything had a money back guarantee , so feel free to try everything with no worries ! Don't forget to check out the bath and body products and baby section as well. Garden Girl offers great kits in these sections as well. They make perfect gifts !

My New Favorite Washcloths !

2009-07-05T19:50:00.001-07:00

These washcloths are awesome ! They are so soft, so wonderful and so inexpensive ! Support handmade and get some now ! You will love them ! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26931486

Garden Girl : Skincare Product Review

2009-06-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

I want to start with a review of three of the Garden Girl Skincare products. Remember, If you shop through the site , please put Lindsey Coddington as your consultant name !

Ideally, I would like you to let me know before you shop, so that I can check back and see how you liked it. For hosting a party in the DFW area you can recieve a hostess gift and additional discounts.

http://www.gardengirlskincare.com/facecare.html

1. You're Fresh Herbal Face Wash - This face wash is the basic wash, great for all skin types. It contains aloe, tea tree oil, lavender and vitamin e. Also has witch hazel, so great for problem skin. Awesome product ! This is basically like having an aromatherapy session while you are washing your face. The scent is pleasant, but not overpowering. I love it ! It makes me want to wash my face in the middle of the day, just to experience the amazing scent and clean feeling. So fresh !

2. Even Ste(pH)en Hydrating Toner - Contains DMAE for skin-firming and is pH balanced. Also has witch hazel and a slew of other awesome natural ingredients. When combined with the cleanser, the effect is wonderful. Your skin will feel smooth and clean, without feeling dried out. These products are gentle, yet effective. You can spray it on and wipe off with a cotton pad or apply to the pad itself.

I reccomend LoveCrochet's facial "scrubbies". You can get a lot of ten for $4.99 plus shipping and they are so soft and wonderful. Much softer than some others I have tried. When used with the Even Ste(pH)en hydrating Toner, the effect is fabulous !

3. Nature vs. Nurture Face Cream - Contains organic jojoba , shea butter, hyaluronic acid, aloe butter, vitamins E and C and green tea extract. The vitamins and green tea antioxidants fight aging naturally and a multi-fruit complex repairs damage to skin. Includes orange, apple, lemon and sugar cane extracts.

This face cream smells like a cupcake to me and looks like icing. It is amazing, how something so natural can smell so divine. It is moisturizing and I swear it makes my skin glow. Using this three step system is a treat for the senses ! The smells and feel of the products is amazing.

I have tried many natural and organic products, but I am not disappointed in these at all. I worried when I got my kit, that the products would not live up to my expectations (which I must say are a bit high), but they absolutely have ! I am thrilled to be selling products that I love, from a company whose philosophy matches with my own !

The eco-friendly refill is available at a reduced price for the nature vs. nurture and the no worries face cream, as well as microdermabrasion and the Cookies + Cream Masque. This makes refills a great deal and it is so great for the environment. I wish more companies would follow this lead. Garden Girl is truly a revolutionary company in terms of safety and environmentally friendly practices, which is why I chose them !

Garden Girl Natural Skincare Products - Fabulous and Safe !

2009-06-27T14:11:00.000-07:00

I am now a consultant of Garden Girl Skincare ! You can order online at Garden Girl - natural paraben-free, sulfate-free & petroleum free skin care . Please put Lindsey Coddington (me !) as your consultant in the consultant box when you checkout.

I will be posting reviews of products on my blog. So keep that in mind if you are clueless on what to order.

Although the complete skincare set is a great deal and I can tell you it will be worth the money.

If you are in the DFW area please contact me about hosting a party ! Hostesses get 25 percent off, a hostess gift and $25 free product for every $150 in sales ! It is a really good oppourtunity if you are interested in the products !

The nature nurture skin cream smells like a cupcake to me. It is sooo wonderful. These products are concentrated, they have a shelf life of four to six months and they will last that long ! I think you will be pleasantly surprised with everything you order !These products are safe for you , containing no parabens, pthalates, petrochemicals or sulfates. They are also great for sensitive skin ! Message me if you have any questions , I would be happy to help !

R.W. Knudsen Organic Blueberry Nectar and Treating Urinary Infections

2009-06-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh, this juice is wonderful ! http://www.knudsenjuices.com/products/organic_juices/organic_blueberry_nectar

I have to say it is the most wonderful juice I have ever tasted. Better news !! Blueberry is great for your bladder and urinary tract. http://www.blueberry.org/health.htm

This site has great info on all the wonderful thing blueberries can do for your health. They are a super food and sooo good for you. In my opinion, blueberry juice tastes better than cranberry juice and is a super great alternative for those of us that suffer from recurrent urinary infections.

For the past year I have been taking a vitamin D supplement, combined with cranberry pills and I have reduced my occurence to none. I thought recently I was coming down with a urinary infection, but I discovered it was actually a yeast infection...much easier to treat ! If I was coming down with a urinary infection, I have dispelled it with natural treatment.

I spent several days taking extra doses of probiotic (Reuteri and Rhamonosus are actually the best for urinary issues- I have this one, which has both plus Acidophilus. http://www.iherb.com/Nature-s-Way-Primadophilus-Reuteri-Superior-Probiotic-90-Vcaps/4674?utm_source=g&utm_medium=x&at=0

Keep refrigerated for best results ! In addition to the probiotics, I upped my vitamin D and cranberry pill and I drank some cran-aid tea one night when I was filling particuarly bad. http://www.4allvitamins.com/product_info.php/products_id/847 . Besides Cranberry, this tea contains uva ursi which is an herb used to treat urinary infection. Please read the warning on the box, uva ursi is not meant to be taken every day, only for a few days in extreme situations or when you think an infection is occuring.

The vitamin shoppe carries both of these products in stores. For vitamin D I use an inexpensive supplement from CVS. I even got it free with extra bucks. I take vitamin shoppe cranberry pills or the life fitness chewables are yummy !

Stay healthy and happy with blueberry juice and probiotics !

Natural Skincare Line and Etsy Clearance !

2009-06-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

I am about to start selling a natural skincare line and will be posting reviews here. Check back soon for updates !

In further news, I am looking for a middle school or intermediate science teaching position in the DFW area, wish me luck and please send positive thoughts my way. I know that my spiritual path will lead me to a place of happiness and fulfilllment, despite my troubles along the way !

If you are interested in vintage jewelry, I am trying to clear out my etsy shop to make room. Buy three get free shipping, is still in play. Free gifts are still going on. Please help me clear out and get some cute stuff ! All proceeds are benefiting my wedding in October.

On that note, suggestions for inexpensive vegetarian food for the wedding are appreciated.

Thanks for reading ! Have a wonderous day!

Predisposed as of late...

2009-06-23T21:37:00.001-07:00

Predisposed of late, but please check back soon for blog updates!

All Three Item Purchases Ship for Free in my Etsy Shop

2009-06-10T08:33:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5598830 This is part of the Etsy Yart Sale. Get these deals while they last, yowser prices are low, with free shipping you cannot go wrong ! This is the time to buy and help me clear out so that I can add fun new items soon !

I have to brag on this etsy seller.

2009-06-07T09:02:00.003-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=cart_raf_img_1&listing_id=24364700

Country life naturals makes the cutest snack bags and lunch bags. This linen combo set includes a lunch bag and a napkin. It is so cute ! The price is awesome too ! I would love to try one, if I hadn't spent $25 on a Vera Bradley lunch bag just two months ago. Maybe for my next lunch bag purchase.

If I get a job as a teacher I will be needing an extra, since I will be taking my lunch every single day ! Reminder, this would be a super nice gift for your teacher friends or co-workers that bring their lunch. Also cute for children. Maybe I could get my son one for kindergarden. I wonder if she could put spiderman on it lol !

I have to brag on this etsy seller.

2009-06-07T09:02:00.001-07:00

Run to Lush Another Great Deal !! Haircare !

2009-06-07T08:56:00.001-07:00

They are having another great deal to encourage you to try out a lot of products. 7 hair products for $15.

1. Choose from trichomania or the blonde shampoo.
2. Get a deep conditioning treatment in a small bottle http://www.lushusa.com/shop/products/hair/hair-treatments/hsuan-wen-hua
3. Choose a solid shampoo bar mini
4. Get a small bar of jungle conditioner http://www.lushusa.com/shop/products/hair/conditioners/jungle
5. Get a Big or Curly Wurly small tub of liquid shampoo
6. Get a Veganese or American Cream conditioner in a small bottle
7. Your choice of one of three hair gels. I got the Goth Juice for medium hold.

This is an awesome deal ! Deep treatment, two conditioners, three shampoos and a gel for $15. Yowser ! Yes they are small sizes, but lush is concentrated, these will last for at least a month, but probably a lot longer. I had a tiny sample tub of big that I know lasted at least a week, same deal for the american cream conditioner. This is my first time to try their shampoo bars and solids, but I have a feeling they will last a long time. Just keep them to dry so they do not disentegrate.

My Etsy Shop Sale EXTENDED MAJOR CLEARANCE

2009-06-07T08:53:00.000-07:00

LOW PRICES. Most items under $4. Free gift with purchase of two items and other specials do apply to all items ! These prices are so low things are going to disappear fast. I have had $60 in sales this week! Click on the items to the left of this post to get to my shop. Thanks!

MEMORIAL DAY FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE SALE IN MY SHOP

2009-05-22T18:32:00.001-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5598830 Reduced prices LOW LOW LOW and free gift with purchase offers throughout the shop. Get a free gift of your choice with purchase of two items. Also, get a free gift of my choice with $20 purchase. Selected items have other free gifts of varying values included, check specific item listings to see these specials. All sales can be combined.

Fit and Fresh Containers

2009-05-13T18:48:00.000-07:00

These are BPA free and feature removable chill packs. Great for taking your food on the go, fresh and affordable. I have the two cup pack of four containers. It was around $7 at Target, but it less expensive online if you do not count the shipping. If you bought a large amount of containers this might be the way to go. http://www.evitaminstore.com/Smart-Portion-2-Cup-Chill-Container-83165.html Here is the one I have.

This one looks great for storing a lot of small leftovers. http://www.koshervitamins.com/shop/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Item_ID=4212&zmam=83101301&zmas=1&zmac=2&zmap=FF-00226

Amazon carries a lot of their products at great prices. http://www.amazon.com/s.html?ie=UTF8&node=3760931&brand=Fit%20%26%20Fresh

I also have the drink mixer which is great for at home or on the go . Nice for mixing shakes. http://www.amazon.com/Fit-Fresh-Portable-Drink-Mixer/dp/B000FNH01E/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1242265864&sr=1-6 . I also use it for mixing my fresh juices made from my juicer. Sometimes they come out very seperated into layers, so this helps make it a bit more appetizing.

Let's Talk about Soap Nuts

2009-05-13T17:39:00.000-07:00

I ordered some on etsy to try them out. Put them in an old sock or the included muslin bag (Four or five soap nuts for a normal size load, maybe use a couple more if it is really dirty stuff) and run the wash. Clothes come out smelling clean, but not detergent scented. Nice! Four or five soap nuts can be used in about four loads (when they get grey and soggy throw them in the compost pile). All natural and seemed to wash well ! These are the ones I bought and it will wash at least thirty loads! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vt_related_1&listing_id=24628712 I think that is a great deal for $7, rivaling cheap drugstore detergents, which are unatural and toxic . What a shame to waste your money on chemical products, when you could be using something natural and wonderful. Nice !!!

My Etsy Shop

2009-05-13T17:38:00.001-07:00

Prices are Low Low Low. Recently reduced prices on over half the store and lots of new items ! Be sure to stop by and tell all your bargainista friends !!! Brooches starting at thirty cents !!!

Shaving Soap

2009-05-13T17:16:00.000-07:00

I highly recommend purchasing a shaving soap bar. Here is why

1. Saves money !! An average shaving gel costs $2-$4 . Yowser ! These only lasted for me a few weeks usually, especially during the summer. Now I have not been shaving often, but the shave bar I have now was $6 and after about a month I still have at least half of the 1/5 bar I have been using. The other 4/5 is packed away for later. At this rate I would estimate a $6 bar will last for at least four to six months. WOW

2. Good for the Environment ! No packaging waste. Sure you can recycle those cans, but they are probably extremely difficult to recycle and expensive, thus adding to the cost economically and environmentally.

3. All natural, good for you ingredients. Most Gillette and Skintimate Shave Creams rate between a 5 and 10 on the EWG toxicity scale.

4. Not irritating to sensitive skin. When I used regular drugstore shaving cream my legs burned after shaving. So much that I finally had to stop. I switched to Toms of Maine, which is awesome. But I felt bad everytime I threw out of those tubes, what a packaging waste!

So what do I recommend?

I have this one, like I said it is $6 with shipping, all natural and unscented. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23529753 Works great!

I would also reccomend this one. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23769041 from Lil Thunder on etsy. Marketed as an all over soap for men, it is great for women too. I have yet to try it on my skin, but I use it as a shampoo and love it ! Multifunctional, saves space in the shower or on your next trip. Bonus, the size is huge ! What a great deal for $11.50 (including shipping in the U.S.)

Make sure to keep your shave bar dry to prevent bacteria build up! Enjoy!

Hot Deal on Lisa Hoffman Natural Skincare Line

2009-05-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

Here is the code you need LHERASEMS

Lisa Hoffman Skincare - Home

The shipping is $10.95 but it is upgraded to UPS 3 day right now, so it is quick for that price. Nice looking stuff. I havent tried it but I am excited to.

My order was
spa toner $14.95
spa exfoliating cleanser $17.95
spa shower packet $9.95
pick three free samples of your choice
subtotal was $42.95
Minus $35
$7.85
Plus shipping came to $18.80

Very good deal for all that !!! I cannot find info on toxicity for this brand, i think it is quite new, so we will have to see. The ingridient lists I saw were mostly or only natural stuff, so it looks promising. Time to try it out. While you are on the site sign up for the email list and you get a $10 any purchase coupon code. Good for ordering next time if you like the products.

Etsy Seller Reviews

2009-05-06T15:17:00.001-07:00

I have gotten a lot of nice stuff on etsy lately, so I have to brag a bit on the sellers.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5704078 Cute pendants in a variety of prices, something for everyone's price range. I have to say this owl pendant is so darling , what a sweet present for someone. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19866847 I love my pendant from her shop, you know you need one!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7034989 Earthangel minerals has the best prices on mineral makeup on etsy, nice selection of items! The samples are awesome. I got the small jars of halo and refresh and I love them both, definetly enough in there to last for weeks or even months at the rate I go!!! I also got a foundation which I am loving it. Nice products and nice seller!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5202312 Check out the flutterstix deodarant and soap in the lip balm tubes. Perfect size for taking anywhere and everywhere. Never be without soap or deodarant again. This seller is looking out for us!!! And they are vegan, I sent some to my best friend (vegan) and she is loving them! She refuses to use soap unless it is cruelty free, so with this no worries. She always has her own! They smell wonderful too! Try chai tea, it smells wonderful.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5043041 Check out cjsdesigns for awesomely cheap jewelry. I got eight items for less than $13 . Holy cow! Nice for gift baskets!

Off topic, but if you have a small animal please check out ellencho http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5100530 . This seller made me the cutest cuddle cup and sac for my guinea pigs. Oh how they love it!! Best prices on etsy! The hay in their cage does not stick to her fleecey ones nearly as bad as with the retail ones.

Almost done but one more ! I bought some wonderful divine soap from a local seller. Check out Tootie's Bubbles http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5819729 She makes the cutest gemstone soap and does custom orders. Get the scents and colors you want. She even wraps them up cute in cellophane. Great for gift baskets. I am doing the earrings from cjsdesigns and some of these soaps for mothers day gifts. I got 24 soaps for $15, way more than enough to go around and leave some for me to try. They are so cute and smell so good! I love it!

Beauty Reviews

2009-04-22T12:37:00.001-07:00

Juice Beauty Mineral Light Moisturizer with SPF - Rating of 2 and just fabulous. I love this stuff. I got the mini in a makeup swap and it is surprisingly long lasting. Very small travel size and I have been using it for well over a week. Look for trial kits at beauty sites or stores to try lots of different things. http://www.juicebeauty.com/sunprotection/ Trial sizes are $5

Also tried their cleansing milk http://www.juicebeauty.com/za/JB?PAGE=PRODUCT&CAT=MAIN.CLEANSERS_TONERS&PRODUCT.ID=33 All of their products in the cosmetic database rate from 2-4 , so fairly good for the prices and availability of these products.

Lush sample reviews:

Fresh pharmacy - Okay, not nuts about it or convinced that it cleansed well. Ditto for herbalism facial cleanser, except the smell was even worse.

I like angels on bare skin. The smell takes some getting used to but it seems to cleanse my face well and help with acne breakouts.

Another product I want to reccomend is the Pangea Organics Moisturizer, the one i have is nigerian ginger, sweet lavender and thyme. Rates a 4 at the EWG site. Smells wonderful and moisturizes well. http://www.thegreenlifecostore.com/m8_view_item.html?m8:item=364 I would prefer a lower hazard score for this price, but I got it for free in a swap so I cant complain too much on the price. This site seems to list EWG scores as well, which is a plus!

Another new item to adore is the 100 percent pure toner I got in a swap. Oh my it is wonderful, smells like essential oils and makes my skin glow! http://www.100percentpure.com/facialtreatment_5.html At $15 this is a steal. No score from the EWG on any of these products, but I don't see anything bad in the ingridients list. Fruit, tea, flowers, citric acid and witch hazel and most of it is organic! Almost too good to be true and they have cosmetics too! I am getting a concealer in a swap and I can't wait to try it!

Badger sunscreen just came in from www.drugstore.com Here it is http://www.badgerbalm.com/p-372-spf-30-for-face-body.aspx Smells wonderful and has a rating of 1. Warning, it is a bit greasy like all zinc oxide sunscreens, probably not that great for everyday under makeup, but awesome for all day at the beach.

New items Added to my Shop HUGE SALE

2009-04-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

I am having a huge sale at my esty shop. Free shipping with purchase of four items. Free gift with purchase of $20. Free brooch (selected available) with purchase of two items. Also all jewelry ships for free with purchase of an altar kit and I do combine shipping. Adding new items this weekend so keep checking back!

Great Etsy Finds Washcloths, Cloth Hankies Etc.

2009-03-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5176740 sells great washcloths. Her four packs are inexpensive and they are soft and bigger than expected. Bigger than store washcloths and more durable. I love it!

For bulk cloth hankies (Great if you have a big family or are just starting to buy this stuff) Try http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19485628 You get 10 hankies for $5 plus shipping. Nice deal!

If you have small kids with very runny noses, get a few extra soft hankies from Rocker by baby http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5260109&section_id=5797824 They sell a lot of other cool stuff as well, like extra soft blankies!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=25893 Has the best deal I could find on terry cloth soap savers. This is an awesome way to use up small soap pieces and save lots of money by getting the most from your soap. I love these!

Kelsilove makes the crocheted soap savers and face scrubbies , as well as a multitude of other fun stuff. She also was willing to swap with me, so I sent her a couple of fun vintage brooches for a pile of awesome stuff. I am waiting to recieve it, so I will report back on this with more details. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6699949&order=&section_id=&page=3 Her prices or low as well, very awesome shop!

Claire de lune makes awesome cloth menstrual pads. I have some ordered from other sellers but I have not tried them yet. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5151807

And for custom sized spoon rings try http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=69585 She will even resize it if it comes out wrong. Check the sizing because it is a bit weird due to the thickness of the ring.

Lush Update !

2009-03-30T15:56:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed the cupcake mask better than the seaweed one I have now. As for the other products in the kit, I love love love the vitamin E toner tabs. I saved the water as they suggested and I spritz it on after cleansing. Very refreshing and nice!!!! The celestial face cream was divine, I just used up the last of it. Ultra bland was a good cleanser, but I have not tried most of their cleansers so I dont have much to compare to. I did like it much better than charcoal and it smelled better. The paradise regained day cream lasted longer than the celestial, I still have almost half of the small jar left. I used it every day almost, so this is awesome. I would say most of the products in the kit have a week and a half supply (Both the cleanser pots were gone in about two weeks time). I still have a small spray bottle of toning water (purchased at container store for ninety nine cents ) and a lot of the mask left. If I liked the mask more it might be more empty by now. I think by the time it expires I will still have half a jar left. Overall I think the kit was a good value. If you get this save the black mask containers, because five of these will get you a free mask. A mini skin care pot gets you ten percent off the full size.

Wonderful Tea Company

2009-03-30T15:50:00.000-07:00

I came across http://www.enjoyingtea.com/ while searching for chrysanthemum tea online. This is an awesome site. The floral tea sampler is an awesome deal for $12.98 http://www.enjoyingtea.com/vaflteasa.html It comes with six mini tins of floral tea including the chrystanthemum,. It is an awesome way to pick your favorite. They have some awesome tea pots that filter out the leaves, so you do not need a seperate filter. However, for a less expensive order you can get the small strainers. http://www.enjoyingtea.com/filters-infusers.html Get one for a cup and one for a pot. The chrysanthemum tea is divine and very good for you. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysanthemum_tea You get a free tea canister with $35 purchase and free shipping with $60 purchase. Get fifteen percent off with the coupon code clay. Enjoy!

Sale at my Etsy shop !

2009-03-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am having a big Easter sale at my etsy shop. There is a sale section and also a second item of lesser or equal value is thirty percent off with purchase of the first. Lots of new brooches have been added ! Soon I will be adding necklaces and earrings as well, so please mark my site a favorite and tell your friends ! You can enter my site through the banner at left !

Go To Lush Now!

2009-03-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

Lush is doing a promotion where for $20 you can get two mini jars of moisturizer, two mini jars of their ultra bland cleanser, two toner tablets and a fresh face mask. You can bring the mini jars back for ten percent off a full size item, plus save five of those fresh mask tubs and you can get a free one.

I love love love their masks. The cupcake is divine and now I am doing the seaweed. It is great too !!! Especially for sensitive skin.

With the kit you also get two soft muslin cloths for removing the mask and instructions for your at home facial.

You steam your face with the toner tab and then take off the mask with the rest of your toner tablet water, very very refreshing !!! It is just wonderful. My face was glowing after I put on the moisturizer in celestial. I felt celestial, like a shining star!

I love it!

Baby Bath Options

2009-03-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.nutricity.com/n/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=15716

This site contains the Jason Naturals baby wash and shampoo which for $3 is a great deal. It rates a three on the EWG scale. There are a lot of other commercial brand natural products on this site as well. Personally, I would prefer to buy from coastal creations or somewhere with homemade products if possible, but if money is tight, this is a good place to get a lot of cheap products that are pretty good for you as well.

A better option is http://www.bodysenseshop.com/bo00010003.html which contains a lot of good deals. Unfortunately the prices are a lot higher. Has tons of good products and as I mentioned in a previous post, this stuff is all rated on the site, so it makes shopping for good products easy. I think their max rating is a three, so everything is pretty safe for you. A great site to try out!

http://healing-scents.com/baby_and_child.html Has a baby shampoo as well. Either of these sites have a lot of other good products as well, so a big order would at least make the shipping fees worth your money.

http://www.nurturemybody.com/organic-hair-shampoos-sls-free This is another great higher priced site, with a lot of good products.

Aveeno Baby Wash & Shampoo, Lightly Scented is also a great choice and the plus side is that you should be able to get it at the drugstore. This has a high convinience factor and saves on shipping. Plus its inexpensive. With a rating of two, this is a real bargain.

http://www.coastalclassiccreations.com/ Has a baby shampoo bar for $6.00, rating 1, and a host of other products for babies and new mamas. Additionally, there are tons of other great products here, including a facial scrub I had previously mentioned. This is a great site, for stocking up on a lot of products, as well.

All Natural Dish Soap and Laundry Detergent

2009-03-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

Check out GreenFamilyTree on www.etsy.com They not only carry homemade laundry soap, but also dish soap. I am getting a small sample of each to try, so I will let you know how it works out.

Meanwhile, all is going well on www.makeupalley.com I have done eight swaps so far, meaning I am getting eight packages full of awesome natural makeup and skincare! I am losing track, but I am expecting at least two almost full mineral powder/mineral veils , also a burts bees toner and lip balm, a tube of sunscreen, a frederick fekkai glossing sample (not natural but oh so wonderful, and concentrated , a sample packet will last weeks!) , a juice beauty sample skin care kit, a caudilae cleansing water (one of my favorite favorite brands), an all natural blush, an arbonne body cream and an eyeshadow brush !!!! I've traded possibly $10 worth of stuff I payed for the rest was GWP and freebies from Free After Rebates or Coupons ! After shipping is done, I will have payed maybe max $30 for all of this!! How thrilling is that! I am super lucky , because my fiance even ships everything for me, such a sweetie!

I can't wait for my packages to start pouring in ! I should be working on my honors thesis, but I am so tired. I need a snack, too. Maybe some apple carrot whole grain cake with yogurt on top, yummm delicious and healthy. I used the pulp from my juicer to make the cake, so it is half fruit and veggie with some maple syrup and flour added in ! So delightful!

Sites I love for Good Deals

2009-03-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

www.etsy.com You can buy anything handmade here! It is awesome! I get cloth napkins, cloth hankies, soap, perfume, makeup. Its so sweet!

www.makeupalley.com You can trade away makeup you never use for stuff you love! So much fun! I joined, but I am loving it. I already made six swaps!

www.paperbackswap.com The same thing, but for books.

I know there are other swap sites, let me know if you find a good one! !

There is always www.ebay.com but it is way cheaper to do etsy or to swap. The shipping rates at etsy are low and sometimes you can add additonal items to ship for free. And its not an auction site, so there is no crying if you don't win on an item you really wanted. You can have it all!

Facial Scrubs

2009-03-07T09:08:00.001-08:00

You can get Rachel Perry's Peach and Papaya scrub for $15.99 on drugstore.com . It is a gentle and effective scrub for combo/oily or acne prone skin. The sea-kelp herbal scrub is the same price, but the reviews show it to be rougher on the skin, which is why I chose the Peach and papaya . The sea kelp has a toxicity rating of 3, none is listed for the other. The three most worrysome ingredients to me are titanium dioxide, with a range of toxicity ratings dependant upon use; salycilic acid (toxicity 7), and propolyene glycol (toxicity 4). As far as toxicity, the sea kelp would be a safer choice, but may be rough on sensitive skin.

Burts bees peach and willowbark is another good choice, although a bit rough to use too often. I'm not sure of its rating either, but it is paraben and pthalate free with 98.43 percent natural ingredients. $8.79 at drugstore.com, readily available at drugstores, Target and some grocery stores. It is widely available, which saves on shipping costs. Although drugstore.com almost always has a "buy $## worth and get free __" promotion with Burts Bees, so watch for that sale if you are a fan.

Now onto the one's rated zero by the EWG. There are a lot so its going to take some time to shift through. Here are a few to start with.

http://www.bodysenseshop.com/bt00010001.html With $7.50 flat shipping on this site, you would want to buy more than just this to get a good deal.

http://www.coastalclassiccreations.com/scrubs.html This site is overall a great place to buy stuff from multiple catergories. Almost all very low or 0 toxicity. Awesome!

Office Chairs, Green Makeup, and Writing

2009-03-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

I decided today that I needed an office chair. So, after wasting a lot of time looking around online, which I think I had already done about two weeks ago (when I first decided I needed an office chair), I decided to get one at Big Lots. So, last time I saw it in the ad, I think it was on sale for $5 less, but at least they still had it in stock, so that is a plus. Now, I'm looking for a desk on Craig's List. Do I need a new desk? I don't know, but I figured I do. Mine has a broken keyboard tray, which is what orginally sparked the whole "I need new office furniture" phase. I put some gorilla tape on it, but its not really helping. Anyways, my back has been hurting when I type, making it hard to work on my honors thesis, so I thought this would help. The chair seems to be helping a bit, I don't know if I need a new desk or not.

I was at Border's with my fiance and I saw a book on being green and gorgeous. Consequently, there is a website as well www.gorgeouslygreen.com . It is really cool, only I thought it would have more links to specific makeup and skin care sites, like the book did. I was hoping to get off without having to buy the book, since I am a broke college student. I probably can, it will just require some searching.

So, I figured I spent so much time searching for this kind of information, maybe I could gather it in one place, for my benefit as well as anyone else's. It seems that being green is relatively complex, especially if you want to be truly green. Especially if you want to avoid toxic chemicals in your makeup and skin care products and everything else you use on a daily basis. I mean this is a great place to start: http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/index.php?nothanks=1 . The problem is this site does not have a comprehensive list of products and it takes a whole lot of effort to find something you want and then find it online for the best price and vice versa.

I've discovered most products labeled "green" are in fact not. So, what an interesting tid bit that was. So, anyways, I am busy, but I thought it would be cool to post some of my findings here. Since I love makeup and I love the environment and I hate toxins, this is part of my life quest. Looking beautiful and feeling great, while saving the environment and me from toxins and destruction.

Another good site is sprig.com, although a lot of what is on there is not in the price range of your average person. So, since I am on a tight budget, I need to find most of my own information in this field. Here is another cool article along those lines, although since their best option is three items for $60, I hope I can do better than that. http://planetgreen.discovery.com/fashion-beauty/budget-green-makup.html . And one more that might help out http://www.smartfamilytips.com/2009/02/16/budget-green-and-safe-personal-care/

One more thing to mention. Making your own stuff is good as well, as far as beauty products are concerned. I saw a book on this too. Problem is sometimes the supplies to start out are expensive, essential oils etc. You might save money in the long run though and if you make it yourself then you know it is good. I am going to start looking for some recipes online for this as well.

I happen to love Lush's cupcake face mask. The only problem is that it only lasts three weeks and my nearest Lush is an hour away. Be fair warned many of their products are not so safe, according to the EWG. I think the cupcake should be a safer option than a lot of their products, because it is freshly made and contains a small amount of ingredients. The two ingredients that sounded the most un-natural to me are glycerin and talc, which each rate a two as far as toxicity goes. I think $7.95 was a great price for it too, Doesn't hurt that is smells like chocolate yuuummmm