Dr. Bronner's Certified Fair Trade Bar Soaps

Having been a fan of the economical and all-natural Dr. Bronner's pure castile soaps for household cleaning and personal care, I finally tried their peppermint bar soap. Verdict? The rich, organic peppermint oils made my skin tingly and clean-feeling. And it didn't dry out my skin at all (easy to do in my chilly house in winter). A superb, organic, and earth-friendly moisturizing soap that smells and feels amazing? Definitely worth the added expense (the soap sells for around $4 a bar).

Dr. Bronner's Peppermint bar soap info

And, while on the subject of Dr. Bronner's soaps...anyone have any other ideas on possible uses for the liquid soap? I use it as a hand/body cleaner (1/4 Bronner's, 3/4 water in one of those foamy liquid soap dispensers), an occasional shampoo (dilute! dilute!), facial scrub (dilute!), and foot soak (dilute! in large bucket). Anyone have any other experiences (good or bad)?

Dr. Bronner's website

Green laundry products

One thing we all do, and do LOTS, over the course of our lives, is laundry. That's a lot of water, and a lot of chemicals, we use and re-use. It stands to reason, that this is one easy way to reclaim respect for the world around us, and a way to conserve our precious natural resources.

Most people think nothing about it. We've always bought Tide, Gain, whatever is on sale, and as long as it SMELLED good and cleaned those ketchup or grass stains reasonably well, it could be trusted, right? Think again. Most major brands don't list ingredients. Sure, it's a "trade secret", perhaps. That, and they don't want you to know what nasty chemicals are soaking into your skin every day. Nor what dangerous pollutants are being sent into our water supplies. Toxic, carcinogenic, you name it, it's often there. For more information on the actual ingredients in most laundry detergents, check this:

Laundry detergent ingredients info

If you're like me, it's enough to make you consider some healthier, more natural alternatives. There are already a steadily-growing number of brands marketing more "eco-conscious" products. I see Seventh Generation and Method products in mainstream stores, but they do seem quite pricey to my single-homeowner micro-budget. I also see Purex and Arm & Hammer nestling in on the "natural" bandwagon, and they are more affordable. The Purex (green bottle) is fine, and supposedly free of many of the petrochemicals of the bigger brands, but doesn't seem to do as well with the cleaning. I like Arm & Hammer's Essentials (also in the green bottle), which is touted as using "100% natural surfactants", no petroleum-derived ingredients, etc. The "mountain rain" scent is appealing to me, it uses real baking soda (one of the natural miracle household cleaners) and I feel like I'm helping, in whatever small way, to prevent nonrenewable petroleum products and harmful chemicals from leaching into our environment.

Anybody have anything pro or con to say about Arm & Hammer Essentials or any other "natural"-oriented brands?

Trader Joe's veggie Corn Dogs

I wouldn't necessarily post a review of a singular food item here, but seeing as how this blog is predominantly "surfed" due to it's Morningstar Farms discontinued corn dog content, this is particularly pertinent.

We (Lady Moon-shake and I) finally tried Trader Joe's meatless corn dogs (after a 3-hour drive to Indianapolis -- for family reasons, not just to pick up corn dogs), and we agree that these are not as tasty as Morningstar's sadly-defunct variety. The corn-breading isn't as tasty and the veggie soy-dog inside sort of blends in with the breading, making for a blander, less flavorful experience. And the texture seems a bit more mushy and less crispy than the aforementioned national brand's were (past tense). Appearance-wise, they look and cook as well as Morningstar's, but they just aren't quite there, yet.

Since I can't have what I want, I would certainly purchase these again, as the choices in my area for non-meat corn dogs are, well, nonexistent.

Perhaps some other competing company like Boca or Garden Burger will decide to create a meatless corn dog...I would certainly applaud them (and give them some support). Until then, I hope that Trader Joe's can open a store closer to me than Indy or Nashville! The place rules (natural foods at great prices)!

Trader Joe's site

Are you part of the paper problem?

In the United States, we are very accustomed to purchasing our paper products (toilet tissue, paper towels, facial tissue, napkins) from the major players, with little regard for environmental impact. But deforestation is a growing concern around the world (as is the need to maintain our old-growth forests, which are very important storehouses for dangerous greenhouse gases) Here in the states, we are blessed/cursed with the plushest, heaviest tee-pee and tissues of anywhere in the world. But this need for 'thicker' and 'softer', and even whiter (chlorine bleach is used, which leaches into waterways), tissues, may not be the sustainable answer.

I've looked around for recycled content, chlorine-bleach-free paper and tissues, and have come up with only the visionary Marcal Small Steps brand (a decent product at a decent price, and with a great message/outlook, but only available in limited outlets, at this point), and Whole Foods Market's own brand, which is similarly natural and also made from 100% recycled content. Seventh Generation seems a bit too pricey, but other regional brands are popping up.

I've recently read that paper giant Kimberly Clark has unleashed their "Scott Naturals" line, which is a step in the right direction, too (if only after intense public pressure from Greenpeace). I've yet to see these products, but it's safe to say that I will be on the lookout.

And it seems that CVS is taking stock in this growing need for environmentally-conscious paper products,. with their own "CVS Earth Essentials" line. Now, if only major industry players like Kleenex and Puffs, as well as the big retailers like Walmart or Target would use their considerable clout with their own brands...time will tell.

Here are some links for more information:

NRDC's comparisons and a superb free pdf brochure

Greenpeace's tissue guide (with a nice free brochure and iPhone app, even!)

NRDC's take on the paper industry

Kimberly Clark's new sustainable line

Marcal Small Steps site


Q & A about recycled content toilet paper

Tom's Of Maine toothpastes and gels

I've been a fan of Tom's Of Maine for some years now, and have enjoyed most of their personal care products, from deodorants to mouthwash to dental floss to many varieties/flavors of toothpaste. For my money, the toothpaste is unusually good, and the presence of cavity-crushing xylitol (a natural sugar alcohol/sweetener that actually kills the harmful bacteria that cause plaque, which leads o cavities) makes it all worthwhile. Imagine - a toothpaste that (A) tastes good, (B) uses only naturally-sourced products, (C) is environmentally-conscious, and (D) actually reduces the presence of elements that CAUSE cavities. In fact, right now I'm enjoying their cinnamon & clove gel, and my dentist visits have never been better! I don't see any reason to pick up conventional toothpastes anytime soon. I've even found Tom's products at mainstream retailers like Target and Big Lots, and sometimes their products can be found with coupons or on sale for reasonable prices.

Tom's Of Maine website

Invasive Species Awareness

This is a major environmental issue that has only really come to prominence in recent years. This telling video is both entertaining and educational. Thanks to Defenders Of Wildlife for producing it.

Is this the box from the last Morningstar Farms corn dogs I will ever enjoy?

Okay, so this blog's most popular content, above all others, and by a long-shot, is the continuing saga of Morningstar Farms Corn Dogs and Veggie Dogs, which mysteriously disappeared earlier this year from store shelves nationwide. I was one who was disturbed enough to contact the Kellogg Corporation (who own Morningstar Farms) and inquire about the future of this amazing vegetarian food, especially as I've been a steady purchaser for years. My response was like the one on this official page:

Veggie Dogs page

However, I'm now seeing some conflicting media coverage, supposedly from Morningstar Farms, that refers to these products as "Discontinued", with little chance or hope of seeing it re-introduced, as originally inferred. Well, look at this official page for further clarification:

Discontinued

A shame. I know of no other products out there in this class that are as satisfying or delicious. To all you Morningstar veggie and corn dog fans...please write to them and express yourselves:

Contact page

Edison endorses natural, renewable energy!

"I'd put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don't have to wait till oil and coal run out before we tackle that."

--Thomas Alva Edison

Recycling old/worn CDs/CDRs/DVDs/DVDRs?

If you're a big music geek like me, and you happen to use a lot of CDRs/DVDRs, you may wonder how much environmental damage you're doing by using/trashing them. I certainly do.
Or alternately, if you work at a business where large numbers of CD or DVD discs (instructional, training videos, etc.) are often thrown in the garbage, you may be able to help to keep these out of landfills. This site, which I noticed linked from respected underground/experimental music site Brainwashed, is one possible solution: CD Recycling Center

Check it out and see if you may be able to help.

FREE green product coupons!

Is there a natural foods, green living, or health & wellness store near you? If so, you would do well to have a look at this site, which offers a variety of free coupons towards some good things -- money saved is, well, money put towards something else! I've used many of their coupons, and have absolutely no regrets. Visit their website here and sign up for your free coupons...or pick up the new coupon book FREE at your local natural foods store...

Mambo Sprouts website

Arm & Hammer Essentials natural deodorant

Ah, "greenwashing". This is a pretty new-ish term to describe advertising or product labeling that, in some way, misleads the public into believing that it's all "environmentally-friendly". Sometimes, products are really, truly eco-conscious, and others make no bones about being "dangerous" or hazardous. Nowadays, as the greening of America gets deeper and more mainstream, some manufacturers are making misleading claims or packaging. I recently found that my Arm & Hammer "Essentials Natural Deodorant", which the front packaging claims to be "Natural protection, aluminum-free, paraben-free". Yup, check. No problem there. But listed in the ingredients is the potentially-harmful antibacterial agent Triclosan (present in many hand (and body) washing products). Not that it's something that really matters a whole lot, but it DOES contribute to the algaefication of our natural bodies of water, and can potentially usher in new, super-viruses that are resistant to our antibodies. So, in effect, as much as I love Arm & Hammer baking soda (and many of their products), this deodorant isn't all it's cracked up to be. It does seem relatively effective in keeping my odors at bay, for what it's worth.

The Age Of Stupid trailer

News of this film just came in. And another upside? Thom Yorke of Radiohead has apparently contributed a theme song of some sort. I guess it didn't make the proposed March 2009 release date, though?

Morningstar Farms Corn Dogs follow-up

It's been noted that on the Morningstar Farms website, there are now absolutely no mention at all of the Veggie/Corn Dogs...as if they don't exist and are being re-written out of existence!

Clarification arrived today, as a rep for the company responded to my inquiry as follows:

"We are experiencing a temporary out of stock situation with all of our veggie dog varieties due to supply issues with our co-manufacturer which has delayed production. We apologize that you won't be able to enjoy one of your favorite products for the near future. As of this time, we do not have a specific start ship date for the veggie dogs to return to your local stores.

We appreciate your purchase of our products and hope to have this product available again soon for you to enjoy.

Thank you and your friends for your loyalty!"



So, I look forward to finding these on shelves again in the future. In the meantime, if you haven't tried Morningstar's new Maple-flavored veggie sausage patties, they are delicious.

Cheekwood Art & Gardens, Nashville, TN

If you're looking for a fascinating attraction, and you're near Nashville, Tennessee, there's a really fun place to see some amazing botanical gardens, on beautiful grounds. It's called Cheekwood Art & Gardens, and in the middle of an affluent part of Nashville, you can see this and snap some superb photos. Visit the Cheekwood Mansion, too, which is an old plantation house with spectacular architecture (but don't take any photos inside! Hah!). If you're into enjoying a little bit of nature, as I am, this is a wonderful day-trip get-a-way, with plenty of space for little hikes in a romantic, flowery setting. And the wildlife? Birdwatchers, this is a must. I saw several species I'd never seen before. Delightful, and recommended!



Cheekwood website

Fresh seafood choices

As a consumer and enjoyer of good seafood (despite my vegetarian-leaning intentions), I am quite concerned about the oceans, and the growing problem with overfishing. Some popular species of fish are really in danger, as production/overharvesting continues to increase to keep up with demand. It would truly be a sad day if we had no more salmon for my delicious salmon patties, for example. Not to mention the damage to delicate ecosystems that would result from the loss of even a single species in a specific region. Think about the bears and other animals that rely on fish for their sustenance.

With that in mind, it is possible to find eco-conscious seafood for your consumption. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) labels their approved products, so there is a choice.

I am especially fond of the inexpensive single-serve salmon portions from Ocean Market, available sometimes in my local Schnuck's groceries for a buck! $1! Makes a superb sandwich (on whole grain bread, of course).

For more info, check this site:

Marine Stewardship Council, with a list of products and availability

Morningstar Farms Corn Dogs

I have been a big fan of these vegetarian corn dogs for years now. They are delicious, and virtually indistinguishable from those corn dogs you enjoyed as a kid, though minus all the weird meat products. In recent weeks, I've noticed all of my major retailers running out of them, and not restocking. The absolute worst-case scenario crossed my mind. What IF they were discontinued? I tried other groceries and health-food stores in a neighboring town, to no avail. Was I going to have to savor the last box I had in my freezer, as there would be no more? Ever?

Thankfully, a visit to Morningstar's website clarified that the corn dogs were out of stock temporarily due to 'supply issues'. Whew! I hope they are back soon.

Natural products at...Big Lots?

Sometimes, it seems that eating/drinking/living "green" in the United States is only for the well-to-do. After all, buying organic produce is often substantially more expensive than purchasing conventional fruits and vegetables. That sucks. And a lot of other "natural" products are also pricier than their normal, chemically-toxic relatives. And, if you are like me and don't live in a very environmentally-friendly (read: big coal area) state, you may have no access to stuff like Whole Foods.
But there is an option, sometimes overlooked. Big Lots.

Yes, that remainder/discount store chain can be a nice source for organic products and natural-living items, sometimes at deeply-discounted prices. I've found all kinds of superb teas there -- Honest Teas for 70 cents (rather than the $1.49-$1.99 range), bottled yerba mate, Annie's organic macaroni & cheese, Blue Diamond crackers, Arm & Hammer Natural deodorant, Seapoint Farms edamame, Tom's Of Maine toothpaste/mouthwash, and more.

It takes an ardent hunter of values these days, and this can be a way to get by "going green" while "saving green". Bad pun.

Green Mountain Gringo chips and salsa

My lady and I are massive fans of tortilla chips and salsa. We have become quite the consumers of chips and salsa, at restaurants and at home. And guess what? These are maybe my favorite tortilla chips around, outside of restaurants. Green Mountain Gringo isn't sold widely, shamefully, as I have only found them in health-food shops (Whole Foods) and specialty stores so far, but these all-natural chips and salsas are top-notch. And the price? I've got a bag of chips for as low as $2.00US! That's substantially less than the major Frito-Lay brands.

I wish I could send you a sample taste, but you'll just have to trust me, and check out the Green Mountain Gringo website for more info. You can even order online, if you don't want to go out searching far and wide! Yum!

Green Mountain Gringo

The Great Garbage patch.

if this doesn't convince you to watch your plastic litter, I don't know what can. We're all a bit responsible for this, but can we make it better? Recycling is the logical first step, and buying products that recycle/support recycling is another good place to start.

Make your own yogurt!

A superb article, and I"m sure quite useable, if you are so inclined. Yogurt isn't some mysterious item you can only buy in groceries...as ARTHUR MAGAZINE columnist and natural-living correspondent Nance Klehm describes in her 'how-to' article, found here:
Human-incubated yogurt

Food, Inc. teaser...

Here's a film that likely won't play near me (Midwestern corn belt), but mark my words-- I will see this on video at some point.
Definitely worth your support. I just wonder what corporate interests will want some of this discredited! Hah!

The Paper Dilemma

Okay, so we all have to use toilet paper, and most of us are pretty well accustomed to using facial tissue (a.k.a. 'kleenex'), and likewise there's always a paper towel handy when you need to clean up that spilled drink. But do most of us think about the trees we are using, and the forests we are destroying whenever we wipe/blow/scrub? With billions of us humans all over the globe, that's a LOT of paper, and paper comes from trees, right? It's said that we, as Americans, use some 700 pounds of paper per year. That's a lot of trees.

Needless to say, I am all for keeping as many trees, wooded areas, and forests intact. I've seen several eco-conscious brands of paper products around, at natural food stores and such, but they are always uber-ultra-expensive. I am but a humble working-class guy with little income. Can't justify it.

Well, along comes Marcal Small Steps - a line of paper that says it's '100% recycled'. They apparently don't cut down ANY trees to make their paper products, and they haven't for 50 years! Sweet! I found some bath tissue priced at $5.99 for a 12-pack of double-sized rolls at a local farm supply store, and, at that price, I think I like it. Anyone else like this stuff? It's not the fluffiest, softest, etc. around, but does the trick better than some store brands. Here's a link to their website.

Marcal Small Steps

Stores like Meijer and Kroger seem to carry it, as does my local (regional) Rural King. Let me know your thoughts!

Bio-Safe Pest Control?

I have some little ants that are making their Springtime debut in my kitchen -- and they won't go away! I've tried keeping my doorway sealed, and sprayed vinegar on the doorway (as well as baking soda) to discourage them, but there's still an odd few that seem to make it through my 'barricades'. Any ideas? It's not an infestation, but annoying nonetheless.

I'd rather not go the chemical/toxic route, of course.

New Belgium Breweries / Fat Tire Ale = Eco-conscious beer!

It's a great time to be alive...one of the craft beers that first moved me to drinking independent brews has finally made it's way East with distribution in Indiana! Woohoo! No need to road-trip to Schnuck's groceries in St. Louis to fill up the ol' car's trunk!!!

Yes, Fat Tire (from the wonderful "wind-powered and employee-owned" New Belgium Brewery in Colorado) is now here. Weirdly enough, it's being sold in 12pks of cans...and larger-sized bottles, but not the regular 12oz. bottles (at least yet). Ah well, it's all good (beer).

Looks like there's a special 'Hoosier' bottle for us Hoosiers, and I've seen the 1554 Black Ale here now, too. Yum.

New Belgium Brewing website

And a brief promo for New Belgium's 'Follow Your Folly' theme, featuring the inimitable Devendra Banhart...

Dr. Bronner's Magic Pure Castile Soaps!

I have become an ardent supporter and proponent of Bronner's Magic Soaps. It's organic, fair-trade, and so very economical, I've been using the same $9.00 bottle for well over a year! I use it as shampoo (not daily, but usually every couple of days), hand (and body and face) wash (25% Bronner's mixed with water in one of those foam-soap bottles), and more. You can find Bronner's in your local health food stores (Whole Foods, local places) as well as mainstream retailers like Target these days. It comes in several sizes, as well as different scents like Peppermint (my favorite), Tea Tree Oil, Rose, Lavendar, Eucalyptus, and more (even a Baby Mild formula). All the ingredients are natural, with no weird chemicals, so you know it's safe and biodegradable. Check their site at:

Dr. Bronner's website

And check out this interesting expose on Bronner's soaps (I can't embed this particular clip, so a link to the official site that features this video). It details California punk rock drummer Don Bolles (The Germs, etc.) and his experience with Bronner's, as well as exposing some untruths about some of the other so-called 'organic' soap products.

Video clip

A note about this blog

Welcome! I hope this blog can become an open-ended dialogue, where ideas and knowledges can be shared for the mutual benefits of all of us. My aim is to enlighten and encourage green and subsistence living, on a shoestring budget, with as little waste or toxicity as possible. My background? I'm a 30-something single guy (very happily attached to an amazing lady) with an an old house in the midwestern United States that's neither green nor environmentally efficient (at this point), though I do my best on my admittedly meager income. I hope if you're reading this, that you will feel free to chime in with your opinions on products, as well as wisdom, tips, and/or experiences.