the ecosaurus blog

Wishing for Peace on Earth

2011-12-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

If wild bears can coexist with dogs, why can't humans coexist with humans? After all, aren't we considered to be intelligent beings? Be kind and feel the love. Peace.

Where are the bees?

2011-11-15T18:48:00.001-07:00

Where are the bees? We need bees for pollination; without pollination there can’t be crops; without crops there can’t be food; honey gives them strength, so we need bees for honey because we need strong bees; we like honey on our tea, we like honey on our cereal, we like honey on our toast, and we like honey on our sore throats; we use honey to suppress our coughs, to treat infections and diabetic ulcers; some of us like to cover our apples with honey to bring us a sweet new year; and some of us give honey to monks on Madhu Purnima; we need honey to make mead, baklava, and globuli; a few of us believe bears are the ones who know where honey lies; many of us use honey to moisturize: our chapped lips, our skin, our cuticles, and our hair; we say honey, honey bun, and hon to endear our loved ones; when we get hurt, some of us use honey to prevent the dressing from sticking to our wounds; a few of us make a living moving honeybees to pollinate crops; and because of it, some bees suffer from migratory stress, when they bounce in trucks with fluctuating temperatures, on the way to distant crops; bees need to feed on a variety of crops; our farms used to be diversified; now most of our farms only provide many miles of a single crop; consequently a few of us are feeding bees unnatural diets with sugar, water, and soy-based feeds; though, some bees were found to treat soy-based feeds as debris; external parasites weaken bees and spread viruses, so some of us treat our hives with chemicals and miticides; most of us treat our crops with pesticides and fungicides; a few of us knew sprayed pesticides affected bees, so we moved our hives away from our farms during spraying season, and invented what we call systemic pesticides; unlike their sprayed version, systemic pesticides remain within the plant throughout its life, and are expressed in the leaves and nectar of our blooming plants; our new pesticides weaken the bees’ immune systems, affect the bees’ digestive systems, impair the bees’ abilities to navigate, and harm the bees’ brains; if lost or separated from their colonies, bees cannot survive; when bees pollinate our pesticide-rich crops, we don’t know what they bring back to their hives, or what they feed their young; some bees are dying, others are getting weak, and most are getting disoriented – millions have mysteriously disappeared; we can’t prove our pesticides are killing all the bees, but we know that most bees collapse several months after being exposed to our chemicals; we know bee colonies have lost a large numbers of workers, but not many dead workers have been found. Where are the bees?
– Juliana Swenson

All of us need to work together to save the bees. If you want to know more about what's happening to the bees watch the movie Vanishing of the Bees, and visit their website for information of how you can help.

The grass isn't always greener... In fact, it isn't green at all...

2011-08-12T15:21:00.001-07:00

They say the grass is always greener, but - as you probably already know - grass isn't green at all. In fact, this guy goes so far as to say lawns are evil. We love this video, the facts it shares, and the way it makes us appreciate our drought-tolerant rocky yards all the more. If you've been looking for a little inspiration to render your yard more sustainable, this little movie could do the trick!

Saving Valentina

2011-07-14T20:30:00.002-07:00

Michael Fishbach narrates his encounter with a humpback whale entangled in a fishing net. The joy of freedom expressed by the whale when she's finally free is the best part of the movie! Gershon Cohen and he have founded The Great Whale Conservancy to help and protect whales. Visit their website www.eii.org/gwc/ and join them in helping to save these magnificent beings. Reducing the amount of fish we consume each year will also help save all marine life from our fishing nets.

Many Hands Blankies

2011-03-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

Loving these blakies from funquilts.com. Blankies are made in small batches by an enthusiastic workforce of developmentally disabled adults in Chicago. Your purchase provides meaningful work for many hands. Each blankie is $75. Checkout pictures and video below.

Have you heard of Vanicream?

2011-03-16T13:36:00.001-07:00

Vanicream is a line of skin and hair products that is formulated without dyes, lanolin, fragrance, masking fragrance, parabens and formaldehyde. It was recommended by my allergist after I found out I have sensitive skin. Vanicream products are great, inexpensive and available at pharmacies and Target stores. ~JS.

Organics on the runway!

2011-02-14T18:03:00.000-07:00

We're loving John Patrick's Organic Fall 2011 collection! More on Vogue.com

Papier mache animal heads

2011-02-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie helps save animals, one bust at a time. Stop the hunting and go get yourself one of these pretty paper creatures!

Merry Christmas to all!

2010-12-23T19:53:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas, Feliz Natal, Feliz Navidad, Buon Natale, Frohe Weihnachten, Joyeux Noël...

Eco-friendly yarn

2010-12-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Eco knitters rejoice! Michaels is carrying eco-friendly yarn, and for a store that's not specialized in earth-friendly products they actually have a pretty good selection.

Effortless Thanksgiving Table Setting

2010-11-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

Just spotted this cool idea on Country Living. It's stylish and inexpensive. You can get the craft paper and crayons or markers at any local craft store if you don't already have them. Please recycle the paper when you're done or save it for another occasion.

Marni's Charitable Totes

2010-11-09T17:06:00.001-07:00

We heart these cute bags, just spotted on vogue.com. They reuse scraps of old prints from Marni's collection and the proceeds help fight world hunger.

Available at Marni stores November 10.

The perfect bike for small spaces

2010-11-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

Think Blue stands for ecological and sustainable mobility. But that is not necessarily a car as Wolfsburg demonstrated at the Auto China 2010 in Beijing. (read more on VW's "Think Blue")

One product, many uses: 2. Transform a tea tin

2010-10-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

Note: This post is part of a series on atypical uses for Ecosaurus recycled cards and gift wrap. The series is intended to inspire and demonstrate how one Ecosaurus purchase not only goes a long way with our green start-up, but goes a long way with customers in terms of possible uses. Find the original series intro here.

Fall is here, which means hot bevvies are back in the sipping saddle. Consequently, households and office spaces have begun turning out empty tea and coffee tins like nobody's business. We see this as an opportunity to reduce, reuse and recycle creatively with the holiday gift-giving season in mind. Of course, we have a specific idea to share to share with you today.

A little more than a year ago, we did a post where we talked about handmade gifts and showcased these images. Today, we revisit these photos, designating them the before and after shots for our second post on alternative uses for Ecosaurus recycled gift wrap.

Project supplies:
Old tea tin
Remnant of wrapping paper
Scissors
Tape, rubber cement or spray-on adhesive

Making it happen:
Leave original paper label on tea tin as it provides a nice grip for Ecosaurus gift wrap. Measure the tin, and cut a piece of gift wrap to size. Ecosaurus-brand recycled paper is luxuriously thick, which means you won't need to adhere a blank sheet of paper to the tin's label before tacking on wrapping paper. (However, it may be necessary to do so with other gift wrap or paper you have around the house.) Make sure the piece of paper hugs the tin to size. Next, we recommend a spray adhesive or rubber cement, as Elmer's glue - unless applied very carefully, evenly and lightly - tends to render paper lumpy. In any case, be judicious but ample with your selected adhesive to ensure the wrapping paper will stick yet remain free and clear of adhesive-induced blemishes. Once dry, fill the can with whatever suits your fancy. If it's going to hold a gift, consider stocking it with nuts, candy, homemade trail mix or granola, tea, coffee or mini cookies. If you plan to use it at home, there's the option of storing office supplies, hair accessories or coins in a stylish way. ~A.F.

One Product, Many Uses: 1. Reuse gift wrap to dress up a drab drawer

2010-10-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

Use remnants of wrapping paper to dress up drab drawers and cabinets around the house. Here, a slice of Square Pegs/Round Holes recycled gift wrap by Ecosaurus is used to line a kitchen drawer.

At home, cabinets and drawers provide a streamlined artifice for storing a hodge podge of homeowner necessities. People love these storage spaces because they offer hiding places for everything while giving the appearance of beauty and order regardless of what lies beneath. The world's super-organized types further up the ante of beauty and order - thoughtfully arranging the items inside those cabinets and drawers in often awe-inspiring ways. But for less organized types, there's still a quick and easy way to enhance the interior look of drawers and cabinets without having to become the methodical person you are not. The way? A pretty liner. And instead of going to the store to buy one, we suggest using a remnant of handsome gift wrap you have around the house.

Project supplies:

Remnant of wrapping paper

Scissors

Tape or Elmer's adhesive puddy

Making it happen:
I am in and out of one particular kitchen drawer every day. While the drawer was designated for a few random items (kitchen essentials, keys, a couple markers for making lists), the drawer's setup was no sight for sore eyes. As part of an ongoing fall cleaning initiative, I emptied the thing, wiped it out and tacked down a remnant of Ecosaurus recycled wrapping paper. Now, not only is the drawer free and clear of a few items that didn't belong, it's pretty in there. The attached photo is proof in the pudding (even though I've since added two sets of keys and a pair of purple scissors.)

Note: This post is part of a series on atypical uses for Ecosaurus recycled cards and gift wrap. The series is intended to inspire and demonstrate how one Ecosaurus purchase not only goes a long way with our green start-up, but goes a long way with customers in terms of possible uses. Original series intro here.

Curitiba "The Ecological Capital of Brazil"

2010-10-23T14:39:00.000-07:00

My sister lives in Curitiba, capital and largest-city of the Brazilian state of Paraná. Curitiba is considered to be the ecological capital of Brazil, with a network of 28 parks and wooded areas. The city has 200 kilometers of bike paths and residents have planted 1.5 million trees along city streets.

Capybaras, Capivaras in Portuguese

Curitiba has succeeded in introducing a Green Exchange employment program that benefits the environment and socially deprived groups. Low-income families, living in shantytowns, can exchange their garbage bags for bus tickets and food. Children can exchange reusable waste with school articles, chocolate, toys and tickets to entertainment events. The project helps reduce household waste in the streets as well as in sensitive areas such as rivers and parks.

My sister lives in a high-riser, but that doesn’t stop her from having a compost station and a small winter garden. Her kids know all about composting and recycling. Everywhere you go in Curitiba there's something to remind you of things you can do to take care of the environment. ~JS

Ingredientes for Composting

Compost Station

HAPPY FALL...AND HOLIDAYS! Ecosaurus has launched its year-end sale!

2010-10-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

Ecosaurus is proud to announce the launch of its year-end holiday sale, offering shoppers more than 40 percent savings on purchases of recycled gift wrap, greetings and note cards! Our specials for 2010 include discounted pricing on eco-friendly cards ($7 per box, reg. $12) and green wrapping paper ($4 per roll, reg. $7).

Our goal? To make shopping green and buying local both fun and affordable during these economic times. Our recycled paper goods - which are also 100 percent recyclable, including their packaging - are great for dressing up gifts any time of year. A touch of ribbon renders any gift seasonally specific, as shown in these two photos. Plus, the cards themselves are great for sending or giving as gifts to paper-lovers. To peruse our eco-friendly collection to see what floats your paper boat, please visit www.shopecosaurus.com. PS. Please tell a friend.

Mark your calendars! Local First Arizona's Fall Festival is around the bend

2010-10-12T21:14:00.000-07:00

Cooler weather has arrived, which means it's almost time for Local First Arizona's Certified Local Fall Festival.

A celebration of Arizona-based businesses, the Certified Local Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, Nov. 13 at The Duck and Decanter on 16th and Camelback in Phoenix. The all-ages all-day event - which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - features a mix of free food, live music, kid-friendly fun, as well as a showcase of goods and services offered by local companies.

Ecosaurus is excited to be participating in the festival for the second consecutive year, and our booth is set to feature great deals on green note cards and recycled gift wrap. Consider this event THE time to stock up on eco-friendly cards and wrapping paper for the 2010 holiday season. We look forward to seeing you there!

One Product, Many Uses: Intro to an Eco-Friendly Blog Series

2010-09-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

In light of a tough economy, the appeal of homemade handicrafts and the increasingly mainstream nature of green living, we are devoting a series of blog posts to the different ways you can use Ecosaurus recycled cards and gift wrap. The goal? To show you how to stretch your dollar by brainstorming multiple purposes for every purchase you make. This creative skill comes in handy when you're shopping Ecosaurus - and whenever you're considering acquiring something new or recycling something old. If you have ideas to share, send us an e-mail. We'd love to hear from you and share your ideas with our friends on Facebook! ~ Amanda & Juliana

To be inspired or not to be inspired - there's no question!

2010-09-05T21:18:00.001-07:00

Inspiration is for everyone, and its sources come in many shapes and colors. Even icky situations can be inspiring, as they can motivate people to move in the opposite directions (say, away from the neighbor lady who tells you the world is so bad you shouldn't have children) or to offer a helping hand, a leg up or an encouraging word (asking glass-half-empty neighbor lady about the highlight of her week). This Inspire card is part of the Interactive Boxed Set (shown) made by Ecosaurus. As you might guess, it's dedicated to inspiration.
Here's a little story, inspired by our desire to inspire you to buy this card - and its set - to inspire others. Warning: This is a shameless plug.
1. You are inspired to support the USPS and keep in better touch with friends through snail-mail. So you decide to stock up on note cards.
2. You look out the window only to realize how beautiful the planet is. You then look across the room to see a piece of paper peeking out of your recycle bin. Suddenly, you are inspired to seek out eco-friendly cards. You mosey over to your computer - which is set on "energy-savings" mode - to shop online and save time, gas and resources.
3. You stumble across a company called Ecosaurus. Its green ways, leafy dino logo and contemporary card offerings inspire you to make a purchase, specifically the Interactive Boxed Set.
4. Your cards arrive, and immediately you are inspired to send a letter. You peruse your card options, select the Inspire card and opt to send it to a friend who has - yup, you got it - inspired you.
5. You consider your friend's inspiring qualities, circling the applicable descriptors lining the card. Next, you are inspired to fill in the blank that allows you to further customize the card for the aforementioned inspiring friend.
6. Because you have to go to the post office anyway, you are inspired to write two more cards to friends who need to take time to celebrate and to breathe. Fortunately, you already have the cards handy and can hop to it. ~ A.F. + J.S.

Gazelle: Beautiful creature, nimble recycling service

2010-08-04T09:11:00.000-07:00

It may be true that nothing runs like a Deere, but I would chance to argue that nothing recycles like a Gazelle. I read about Gazelle.com in a magazine a few months ago, but I just got around to visiting and making use of it. My post-supper mission: Test out the site as a means of recycling my 2003 iPod mini (R.I.P., January 2009) and my Motorola Razor phone (so old that I cannot remember when we met, only when we broke up so I could start going out with my iPhone).

My mood at the outset of this endeavor was one of gladness, knowing already that Gazelle would not only send me a box in which to ship my goods-gone-bad, but it would cover the costs of shipping them. Turns out, that's nothing. What's really something is how simple and streamlined the whole process is - and the fact you can make money along the way.

A search/listings setup makes it easy to identify the exact products you're ditching. (There are pictures to help, too, in case you need a visual.) The site then asks you to rate the functionality and condition of your gadgets in order to assess and assign value. Whether they are or aren't worth a dime, you still get to recycle the unwanted goods in a nearly hassle-free fashion.

What's cooler than that cool - and no, "ice cold" isn't the answer this time - is how Gazelle ends your transaction by letting you know that one of your items could be deemed of value upon arrival and inspection, and if so, Gazelle asks you how you would like to be compensated. In addition to offering standard options (PayPal, Amazon.com, etc.), it lets you donate your dollars and cents to charity and goes on to give you gads of non-profits from which to choose.

Recycling your unwanted electronics at Gazelle.com is an eco-friendly and effortless chore, and it can also be a money-making or charitable endeavor. It's fair to say Ecosaurus has a crush on Gazelle effective immediately. ~ A.F.

You Can Get With This...

2010-08-03T21:06:00.009-07:00

For the last month or so, my sister and I haven't been able to get enough of that Kia Soul hamster commercial. You know the one. If one of us is in another room when it comes across the TV screen, we yell to the other to hurry in to sing along and mimic the dance moves. (Suddenly overcome by the urge to do the same? Go here.)
Loving this commercial so much and watching it so frequently means that, at least lately, my mind is limited to just one song ("The Choice Is Yours") and one image (hamsters in hoodies). Suffice it to say, I end up rapping and swaying in the break room, by the copier and through the halls, which has led to conversations during which others reveal their great affection for this very piece of advertising genius. Today, I achieved a whole new level of delight when my friend Beth told me her husband Dave, a frequent wearer of old school hoodies, not only digs the commercial but actually rented a Soul while out of town the other weekend. (Insert hamster squeaks here.)

But back to the point. The Kia hamsters have brought the Black Sheep and hoodies back into my music and wardrobe rotations respectively. I realized, too, that I could really use another hoodie come fall. And what do you know - a little research revealed I could get with this eco option, or I could get with that.

: Maya Button-Up Hoodie by A.D.O. Clothing

THIS: Made by A.D.O. Clothing, this all-natural herb-infused hoodie is made from 100% organic cotton. Other features: engraved wood buttons and a drawstring for a relaxed fit. Available in navy or wine. Hand wash. About $48 + shipping.

THAT: For those who like to ride big snowy hills and those who want to look urban hip while keeping warm during winter, Volcom's Green Thumb Organic Zip Hoodie is 100% organic cotton and decked out with low-impact screens inks and embroidery. $50 + shipping. Other options for guys and dolls can be found here. Doo. Dah. Dippity. ~A.F.

Consumers prefer eco-friendly hotels

2010-07-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

Travelers give thumbs up to green stays
Not only are green hotels better for the environment, but travelers overwhelmingly prefer them. According to Travelocity, eco-friendly hotels get higher consumer reviews than their non-green counterparts. The company allows consumers to rate its hotels on a scale of one to five smiley faces. When the company studied the reviews for green hotels, an interesting trend emerged. Consumers gave 83 percent of non-green hotels three smiley faces or more, but they gave 94 percent of green hotels three smiley faces or more. “This data confirms something we’ve long suspected,” says Alison Presley, manager of Travelocity’s Travel for Good® program. “Our eco-friendly hotels care deeply about the entire experience they provide and that attention to detail translates into an awesome stay overall.”
(TravelMole, July 17)

BIG BANG BIG BOOM

2010-07-20T17:13:00.001-07:00

Amazing street art animation about life evolution on earth. A little long, but worth seeing till the end.
BIG BANG BIG BOOM - the new wall-painted animation by BLU from blu on Vimeo.

Buy now, save big: 2-for-1 sale on Ecosaurus recycled gift wrap

2010-07-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

ECOSAURUSCELEBRATES JOLLY HOLIDAY SALE IN JULY WITH “BUY ONE, GET ONE” DEAL ON RECYCLED GIFT WRAP

The holidays are always around the corner, which iswhy Ecosaurus, LLC is holding its Christmas sale a little earlier this year -in July! The online paperie is offering a “buy one, get one free” deal onrecycled/recyclable gift wrap from July 1 to July 31. When consumers buy oneroll of eco wrapping paper ($7), they will get a second roll of the samepattern free. This offer is limited to purchases made at www.shopecosaurus.com.

“While winter is far from the minds of some, theholidays are already on the minds of many. For all the eco-conscious plannersout there, this is a great opportunity to pick up our high-quality recycledgift wrap at an unbeatable price,” said Juliana Swenson, co-founder ofEcosaurus.

Ecosaurus recycled and recyclable gift-wrapcollection features green-and-white color schemes and six timeless designs.Available by the roll, Ecosaurus wrapping paper is printed with vegetable-basedinks on paper that is 100 percent recycled, 50 percent post-consumer waste,processed chlorine-free, FSC Certified and Green-e Certified. Rolls of giftwrap feature two 24x36-inch sheets of luxuriously thick eco-friendly wrappingpaper. (No torn corners here!)

“Our eco-friendly gift wrap features fresh, moderndesigns that can be made seasonal or occasion-specific with the touch ofribbon. This means people who buy now can hold onto it till December or use thewrapping paper right away,” Swenson said. “The best part, however, is that nomatter when people use it, our gift wrap can always be placed in the recyclebin, a rarity in the world of wrapping paper.”

Ecosaurusalso designs and sells boxes of green note cards. Six card designs coordinatewith the available gift-wrap patterns. Like the wrapping paper, all Ecosaurusnote cards are recycled and recyclable. Cards are printed with vegetable-basedinks on paper that is 100 percent recycled, 100 percent post-consumer waste, processedchlorine-free, FSC Certified and Green-e Certified. Each box of recycled cardsfeatures 9 cards and 9 white envelopes ($12 per box). The cards, envelopes andpackaging are all recyclable; the box can also be repurposed for storage andgift-giving.

Summer Veggie Dish: Quick, Tasty and Low-Cal

2010-06-25T11:37:00.021-07:00

Fresh vegetables are tastiest when in season - plus, it makes good dollars and sense to plan your meals when crops are most copious at the market. The following seasonal recipe marries wonderful flavors for a delightfully light and healthy side dish. We recommend doubling the quantities (it's that good), and perhaps tossing in a little yellow summer squash for added color.

SUMMER VEGETABLE BAKE

starring one fruit, the tomato

Prep: About 5 minutes

Cook: About 25 minutes

Ingredients:

3 small zucchini

8 cherry tomatoes

1 small eggplant

1 garlic glove

3 Tbls. extra virgin olive oil

3/4 C bread crumbs

3 Tbls. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

2 Tbls. chopped basil (optional)

3 oz. fresh mozzarella (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat often to 400F. Cut all veggies into one-inch slices. Mince garlic. Place zucchini, tomatoes and eggplant in a bowl. Add oil, salt and pepper and toss to coat the veggies in the oil. Arrange in an oiled casserole dish that allows veggies to rest in a single layer across the pan. If desired, tuck slices of mozzarella between vegetables. Bake, basting a time or two with oil and juices, until veggies are golden (approx. 20 minutes). Meanwhile, mix bread crumbs, garlic, parsley and basil in a small bowl. Remove veggies from the oven, spoon bread-crumb mix over the veggies to soak up the juices, and put dish back into the oven for another 5 minutes (or until golden). Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with bread.

Recipe from Mary Gwynn's "30-Minute Vegetarian Recipes"

To learn more about the health benefits of a few ingredients, visit these links:

Tomato: vitamin C, K and much more

Summer squash: hydrating and bearer of carotene, potassium and more

Garlic: known to lower cholesterol, fight illness, infection and more

The Lazy Environmentalist

2010-06-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

In the Sundance Channel original series THE LAZY ENVIRONMENTALIST, entrepreneur and author Josh Dorfman meets with environmental skeptics — experts in fields as diverse as food, architecture and business — to prove that there are innovative, cost-effective, ecologically sound alternatives that also meet high professional standards.

Checkout their website for more episodes: http://www.sundancechannel.com/lazy/

Summer offers windows for snail mail, crafts

2010-06-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

While spending time outside tops most people's summertime activity lists - sometimes you have to stay in due to rain showers or limit your time under the harsh eye of the sun. Beyond knocking out cleaning, organizing and other productive tasks that line to-do lists, there remains time for creative and low-cost endeavors that are fun but often productive in their own right. One example? Designing snail-mail correspondence with paper scraps and old-school glue. To let her boyfriend back in Ames, Iowa, know she was thinking of him during her time in Phoenix, my sister put together this lovely little paper gem. The card's simplicity seduces, and its design and color palette communicate a sense of place. No doubt it'll brighten up that Iowa mailbox...

Sip and "C": O.J.-based power drinks for summer

2010-06-18T10:17:00.003-07:00

Summer's here, and there's no reason why staying healthy and hydrated shouldn't be fun. Beat heat-induced sluggishness with these fresh and fruity power drinks. All three have an orange juice base, which means they are rich in vitamin C, fiber, folate, vitamin B1 (thiamin), potassium, vitamin A and calcium. According to WebMD, regular shots of O.J. can help fight cholesterol and control blood pressure - and who doesn't want that? So head to the kitchen, throw one of these babies together, pour it into a wine glass and drink to your health!

Açai Ya!
1/2 C Sambazon organic Açaí (available at Costco)
1/2 C of orange juice

Health benefits:
This particular brand of Açaí juice is rich in antioxidants, healthy omegas, fiber and protein. "Some studies show that Açaí fruit pulp has a very high antioxidant capacity with even more antioxidant content than cranberry, raspberry, blackberry, strawberry or blueberry. Studies are ongoing, though, and the jury is still out." –WebMD

Just Beet It
1/4 C red beet juice
1/4 C carrot juice
1/2 C orange juice

If you don't have a juicer, simply use a blender and then strain the juice using a thin cloth. Be sure to wash, peel and chop vegetables before blending.

Health benefits:
Red beets have high levels of carotenoid, are an excellent source of folic acid and magnese, and are loaded with antioxidants. "Researchers believe the red pigment (called betacyanin) in beets could protect against development of cancerous cells and might play a role in reducing the inflammation associated with heart disease." –WebMD

Carrots are the richest vegetable source of vitamin A, with high levels of vitamin K and vitamin C. "The latest research on carrots shows these sweet, crunchy veggies may help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. They're also a top cholesterol-fighting food, thanks to ample amounts of soluble fiber — the kind found in oats." –WebMD

Taken for Pomegranate
1/2 C pomegranate juice
1/2 C orange juice

Health Benefits:
"Pomegranate juice is anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants. It contains some of the same polyphenols found in tea, as well as isoflavones found in soy, plus ellagic acid found in berries, which is believed to play a role in cancer cell death." –Dr. Weil

"A recent study by UCLA researcher Allan Pantuck, MD, and colleagues found that drinking only eight ounces of pomegranate juice a day had a significant effect on levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which is widely used as a gauge of prostate health. High PSA levels are a red flag for prostate cancer." –Harry Fisch, MD on www.doctoroz.com

"Eating pomegranates or drinking pomegranate juice may help prevent and slow the growth of some types of breast cancer. A new study shows a group of phytochemicals called ellagitannins found in abundance in pomegranates inhibited the growth of estrogen-responsive breast cancer in laboratory tests." –WebMD

it's time to thredUP

2010-06-09T15:26:00.001-07:00

The average American family spends more than $1,000 each year on children's clothing. thredUP kids allows you to exchange boxes of kids clothing in bulk, rather than single shirt swaps. This is designed to make life easier, faster and more affordable for moms and dads. Check out their website for more info: http://www.thredup.com/

There is also an interesting case study about thredUP on Fast Company: http://bit.ly/aF9bcX

Sentimental Sundays: Ansel Adams reminds us that art, beauty surround us

2010-05-30T12:50:00.004-07:00

Yesterday we, the Ecosaurus contingent, visited the Phoenix Art Museum to lay eyes on the Ansel Adams exhibit. The display has held court since January, and the clock is running out for Valley denizens who wish to sneak a peek - only a week remains before the photos step down and journey back to Tucson.

The exhibit is wonderfully and thoughtfully displayed, grouped by early works, the Southwest, National Parks and architecture - with brief exposure to the color pictures commissioned by Arizona Highways and Kodak ("Wheat Fields" being a stunner), as well as a collection of glass-enclosed artifacts such as light meters, cameras, journals, photography workshop itineraries and more. The exhibit included flat-screen TVs, too, rolling clips of interviews done with Adams at the piano and behind the steering wheel. His words, tough to discern at times due to the recording quality of decades gone by, were poignant and poetic.

It's known going into the gallery that Adams is impressive - he's a cultural icon, to say the least. But his greatness is further revealed by what is relayed by the captions, the summaries, the videos and close inspection of the select photographs and transparencies. In addition to his abilities to endure weather and seize last-minute opportunities, envision the finished shot before snapping it, and to relay texture, mood and feeling through adept dark-room techniques, Adams's expressed desire to show Americans what the wilderness has to offer is telling of his character. He wanted others to enjoy his medium of choice, but more so he wanted people- all people regardless of age, class or culture - to enjoy what he captured through that medium: nature, the world. He strived through photography to inspire people to connect deeply with their surroundings, to realize the beauty in their day-to-day lives as well as all which lies beyond home in the depths of our National Parks.

The emotions evoked by the exhibit are many, with awe overwhelming at times. Beyond the postcards and the book we acquired in the gift shop, we left with the reminder that, when viewed through the proper lens, life is art - and beauty surrounds us. ~ A.F.

America's got talent, but Nature's got more

2010-05-05T13:18:00.007-07:00

Did you know there is a World Tulip Summit? I didn't. By contrast, I have long been aware of the Tulip Time Festival held every May in Pella, Iowa. The tulip, by the by, is one of the sure signs of spring, so you can imagine how excited Midwestern people get about this plant's arrival and festival after a long, brow-beating winter. Accordingly, the Hawkeye State's flower festival is a powerful one, pulling in so many bloomin' souls from near and far that school buses and charter buses become about as hot as something, anything, Steve Jobs might bring to the marketplace. In fact, when I was in junior high, we had to schedule some of our end-of-year field trips with Tulip Time in mind. (This was extremely annoying to 14-year-olds who didn't give a rip about flowers.)

Though I wasn't aware of the international tulip gathering till today (thank you, pop-up ad on article about feng shui), I realize it's not surprising that tulips give rise to a world summit and an annual pilgrimage of Iowa's greener thumbs. Nature captivates and affects us in ways different from and to degrees much greater than the countless engineered creations that dominate our lives. (Landscape vs. lifescape?) While I truly appreciate and enjoy structures, architecture and the elements that adorn walls and occupy the spaces between them, I occasionally grow tired of these things. However, what lies outside of those walls in nature seldom bores and always fascinates. Now, and always really, the earth influences and inspires. Such is true for people and businesses, including our own Ecosaurus, perhaps especially during wildflower season.

Right now, the Arizona desert is in bloom. The shapes and colors of plants and cactuses are so stunning that you almost can't help feeling better, brighter and more beautiful for just gazing upon them. These eye-arresting ensembles worshipping the sky - and the good weather that nourishes them - have lured travelers to our state over the last weeks, and they're pulling residents out of their lifescapes into the landscapes of parks, preserves and neighborhoods like mine. I guess that's the nature of nature.

In closing, here are three ways to enjoy spring in the Valley:

1) Kick off your day at Chloe's Corner at Kierland Commons. The little patio - or a table just inside the open door - is the perfect perch for savoring a $.50 cup of coffee and whatever menu selection you make. Suggestions include the mushroom-spinach omelet; the yogurt, granola and berries mix; and/or a side of cranberry-walnut wheat toast.

2) Zip over to the Desert Botanical Gardens. Morning, afternoon and evening, this place offers plenty of earthy eye candy with a calming and/or romantic effect. Plus, its central location makes it easy to get to and home from. www.dbg.org

3) Pursue patio drinking or dining. There are countless great patios around town, including the one at Taggia at FireSky Resort and Spa. This destination is a client of mine and while I may be biased, my surveyed friends and colleagues agree that the outdoor dining area - which faces lush plantings and overlooks pools and fountains - is a delight day or night. The coastal Italian fare is fantastic, too. Not in the mood for Italian? Head to El Encanto in Cave Creek for amazing Mexican and a memorable sunset. ~A.F.

Sentimental Sundays: A bottle of nostalgia with a side of BBQ

2010-05-02T09:32:00.003-07:00

Happiness has many causes. Archer Farms coconut macaroon coffee from Target. Conan O'Brien stand-up comedy. A long stroll in the sunshine with my dog. Dinner with friends. A Sunday sermon seemingly written just for me.

Or even more simply, a bottle of pop that's the color of antifreeze.

A couple weeks ago on a Friday night, I visited Big Daddy's BBQ in Scottsdale, just off Shea and the 101 in the Pima Crossing shopping center. I am a PR professional, and our firm has been handling the restaurant's grand-opening festivities. In addition to serving crazy-good smoked BBQ meats - which are lacking in Greater Phoenix and, come to find out, as popular as air itself - this new concept comes from a good, reputable family: Big Daddy's "big daddy" is Mastro's of steakhouse fame.

My dining experience was part of an invitation-only free-for-all prior to the actual opening (April 26). The crowd's ordering, eating and carousing was designed to the get staff up to speed, and you can bet the place was smokin' on many levels.

The setting itself is a gift to both Midwesterners and Southerners who want a taste of home without having to make the drive or board a plane. As you walk into the restaurant, you get the odd feeling you're going outside - even when you're many paces from the patio. This "odd" feeling, turns out, is a good thing. Interior visual fixins include white clapboard siding, black trim, black screen doors that slap shut, stainless-steel-topped tables, wooden chairs and spacious picnic tables crowned with red umbrellas. The design is charming yet clean, and along the lines of clean, metal buckets with rolls of paper towels populate every table.

The menu, in addition to being every kind of meaty, features sides to suit various down-home tastes. The deliciousness factor is high, while the pricing is commensurate with quality and portion size. Meanwhile, the bar offers people exactly what they'd want; and most around me wanted beer and took their complimentary cold ones in hefty frosty mugs. Meanwhile, the knight of my night was a bottle of blue cream soda.

I grew up in Iowa, and my grandparents owned - and still own - a bowling alley called 30 Lanes. My dad's car-repair shop sits across the parking lot behind it. Suffice it to say, I had plenty of reasons to be in the neighborhood. On special occasions at the alley or when my dad brought home a case of bottled pop, I was given permission to indulge in a fizzy liquid fix - and my no. 1 choice was a bottle of Nesbitt's blue creme soda.

Though Big Daddy's appropriately serves Dad's blue cream soda vs. Nesbitt's blue creme soda, the smell of that pop and the taste of it washing over my lips was like getting into Doc Brown's DeLorean and traveling back to 1985. In just a sip, I was a kid again - carefree, sugar-filled and focused on the moment. Now that's one helluva drink.

You can bet I'll be going back for another, with a side of BBQ, of course.

Love for giant pandas and a lesson in a happy marriage

2010-04-28T07:33:00.000-07:00

I’ve been married for 21 years, and my husband James is still as crazy about me as he was when we met, despite the fact that I’m 60 pounds heavier and aging. Why? My theory is this: Consciously or not, I play hard to get; and I travel to Brazil, sans husband, once every year for a period of three weeks. In addition, I always give James plenty of room to be himself because I, too, value my freedom and don’t want him around all the time. As a result, I've come to believe that going separate ways when romance is not in the air is the best way to revive a marriage or relationship. Giant pandas seem to agree with this theory. Watch and learn, and remember to take a vacation from your mate once in a while. ~J.S. PS. Take note! The commercial preceding this video happens to be really creative - a neat way to introduce eco-friendly snack packaging by Sun Chips.

Get your survey on

2010-04-17T17:05:00.002-07:00

What are the things birthdays are made of? Pointy party hats, confetti, streamers, presents, cake and, of course, birthday cards. We at Ecosaurus are in the process of adding birthday cards to our collection of recycled greetings. But first, we have a few questions for you. Please click here to take our survey.

Mail Matters: A Red-Letter Rant from CBS's Andy Rooney

2010-04-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

Last month, "60 Minutes" repeated an October 2009 Andy Rooney segment featuring the USPS. Given our love of snail mail and appreciation for the letter carriers who deliver magical correspondence to mailboxes everywhere (and especially in light of our business), we believe that clip is worth repeating here as well.

Giving a knit about the planet

2010-04-10T09:00:00.002-07:00

Scottsdale's Jessica Knits is a wonderful little shop filled with beautiful yarns. Its inventory features some truly lovely naturally-dyed hemp and bamboo products that are the handiwork of fair trade communities in South America and around the world.

I love to knit and keep quite a bit of yarn around the house, some of which I like to repurpose for other projects such as gift-wrapping. Planet-friendly yarn is one possible guilt-free alternative to standard ribbons, whose manufacturing practices can be toxic. (We do advocate using and reusing any ribbons, however, that are already in circulation!) Accordingly, for a little Ecosaurus photo shoot, we decided to pair a red fair trade yarn with our recycled/recyclable gift wrap, using an old button to bind the ends together in a fun way (shown).
For yarn-lovers yearning to do more than expand their knitting supplies for the sakes of scarves and gifts, Jessica Knits also offers classes for all levels of knitting and crochet. Learn more here. Finally, the following Treehugger article offers additional insight into earth-lovin' yarns. ~J. S. + A.F.

Telling fear to take a hike

2010-04-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

It's Friday, and the weekend awaits! Having fun is no doubt a top priority over the coming days, while feeling scared isn't. Here's a closer look at the sources of our fears and how we can defeat them. No cape, magic wand or lightsaber required.

Green cards, coffee brown...

2010-04-06T21:53:00.001-07:00

Today Ecosaurus-brand cards and gift wrap became available at Old Town Scottsdale's Sola Coffee Bar. Don't know it? Consider this your intro.

Sola is a newish, lesser-known and already much-loved caffeine outpost located among the legions of shops lining Fifth Avenue. More important than its extraordinary setting, which features an uber-friendly staff and a retro-salvage mix of fixtures and furnishings, Sola offers the best jolts of java in the city. And we're not just saying that. Our addiction to this place began long before our products were in place.

At the recommendation of the barista, first-timers to Sola often fall for the agave latte, and some love it so much they cannot bear to consider another menu item, ever. Meanwhile, others explore the sipping space, making moves on the shop's marvelous mocha, another genre of latte, or the Cadillac of caffeine vessels - the cappuccino.

For Sola guests who believe every coffee requires a sidekick (read: snacky-poo), a variety of available pastries will whittle away at your willpower and woo their way onto your plate. There will be no regrets.

Beyond the tasty drinks and treats, artwork plays a starring role here, gracing the walls with beauty you can take home should a piece grab your attention and appeal to your pocketbook.

Finally, as mentioned at the outset of this blog, there are now Ecosaurus note cards and gift wrap available for purchase. (Thank you, Sola team, for welcoming us to your venue!) For a price more than coffee but less than artwork, you can take our fresh recycled/recyclable goods with you to use as gifts or for gift-giving purposes. Alternately, you can put them to use pronto by catching up on snail-mail correspondence as you sit and leisurely sip your Sola beverage of choice. Regardless, you will win - as will two small local businesses. www.solacoffeebar.com, www.shopecosaurus.com

The color purple, c'est cool!

2010-04-05T23:17:00.000-07:00

Recently I've been thinking about how people buy stuff that makes them feel cool. Sometimes they buy things on trend. Other times, they spend against the grain, positioning themselves opposite of what is cool in an effort to be cooler than cool by being counter cool. Yet in the end, what we perceive as cool or counter cool seems to have the truest meaning for the individuals doing the perceiving.

The subjectivity of cool is why in any given decade there are people who frost their tips, wear high-tops, clasp a ponytail with a scrunchy, opt for velcro straps over shoelaces, insist on pleats, pull on members-only jackets, go tanorexic, wear applique tops outside of sanctioned "ugly sweater parties," stay inside the fashion lines with classics like J. Crew or L.L. Bean or embrace any and all newfangled notions shown in Vogue and G.Q.

Sometimes the appeal or repulsion of a particular product or style has to do with birth date or ZIP code. Sometimes it has to do with brand identity, clever marketing, media placements, cost, need and want. Sometimes it has everything to do with color; and like the concept of cool, color is subjective depending on the cones inhabiting the eyes of the beholder.

Last week, I was casually prowling for some new heels because I'd noticed that my youngest pair, which dates back to 2007, had begun looking a bit road-weary. While I was scanning displays, my mind was on black. But my feet never got the message, and I walked away from the store with a bag of grape-colored wedges (shown). Though they weren't a shade I'd usually go for, I went all in for these girlie bubblegum kicks. Plus, they were on super sale, very comfortable and movement-friendly - a match made in Macy's.

Not everyone will see these wedges as I do, but I love them and consider them cool. Are these shoes really cool? Cooler than cool? Counter cool? I don't know. The one thing I do know: I'm the only one who has to walk in them.

Sentimental Sundays: The experience takes the cake

2010-04-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

During the last few years, I've had to plan a fair amount of events for work. No matter how much care I take to ensure that everything falls into place, something always falls out of line. I tend to sweat the small stuff, yet things almost always work out better than fine - due in part to the fact the attendees have no idea what is supposed to be happening (I don't tell them), so they enjoy whatever unfolds and walk away with happy memories of the experience.

Over time, I've learned that the details matter most to the hosts - and the experience matters most to the guests. I acknowledge that the experience is the sum of the details (which is why I overanalyze them), but I have come to believe that all - hosts and guests alike - tend to remember events more in the vein of impressionist paintings rather than photographs - a bit on the blurry side and very lovely.

The recent wedding of dear friends seems to underscore such a theory. During the course of Mark and Andrea's big day, the couple found themselves a tad stressed when their dreamed-about and well-planned reception program temporarily fell victim to forces of the universe. For the newlyweds, such unforeseen happenings were about as appealing as a toe poking through a favorite sock.

As they quietly mourned to each other the AWOL nature of one small piece of the program (which they later shared with some of us), we the guests were busy enjoying the occasion that Mark and Andrea had so thoughtfully brought to life:

* The reception hall in downtown Delray - an "old school yet so cool" gymnasium that was in mint condition and rendered magical by strands of white lights and floating paper lanterns. * An amazing spread of food. * A tasty multi-layer-lemon cake decorated with citrus and topped with hikers bearing the likeness of the newlyweds. * The friendly and gregarious guest list comprising friends and family from far-flung places. * Numerous heartfelt toasts to the much-adored couple. * The afterglow of the preceding wedding in a sculpture garden, starring the elegant bride and beaming groom. * And most important, the love of the pair that had led to this day.

Weddings, receptions and other gatherings - including the event called life - are made up of details and experiences that leave room for unforeseen error and unexpected beauty. They are a bit on the blurry side and very lovely, and the hope is for people enjoy whatever unfolds and walk away with happy memories. Such was the case with Mark and Andrea's wedding, at least for me and other guests, but mostly, I hope so for them.

Sentimental Sundays: Crazy for Crazy Heart

2010-03-14T14:24:00.002-07:00

"I knew what the risks were with you, and I took them," said Jean to Bad.

This weekend, I finally got around to seeing "Crazy Heart." The movie is neither uplifting nor depressing, surprising nor boring. It is, however, real and true, which is why the film - and the performances of its cast members - has resonated so deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Like its Southwest backdrop and country soundtrack, the beauty of "Crazy Heart" may not appeal to everyone. But those who show up to see it can't help but identify with any number of characters. Live to be a certain age, and you've no doubt:

- taken emotional risks hoping the exception would trump the rule
- cared deeply for someone with destructive habits
- been enamored by a performer
- felt a sense of regret about the past
- been refused pardon
- had a friend who accepted you as you are,
without losing sight of your potential
- wondered if it was possible to turn it all around
- realized what was once right has become all wrong
- fallen on your face and asked for someone to help you up
- forgiven yourself and forged ahead

This movie reminds us that logic in love isn't always sustainable, redemption is always possible and risk is the route we must travel in life. Indeed, this ain't no place for the weary kind. ~ A.F.

It's Friday, so why not take your bulldog snowboarding?

2010-03-11T22:36:00.003-07:00

Spring fever? If you're considering hitting the slopes, don't even think about leaving Spot at home. Instead, take him along for the ride. Here's a look at a trio of bulldogs that learn how to get in touch with their inner snow bunny. (This post is predicated on Ecosaurus co-founder Juliana's love of bulldogs. Her English pooch, Sophie, dwells in the land of sunshine but would surely welcome the occasion to ride hills. Woof!)

Where the rain goes

2010-03-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

Every time it rains in my community, the water runs through my street and falls in a drainage area. This area is a big hole that looks like a desert garden throughout most of the year, but when it’s full it looks like a small pond. I think it’s very clever, although it becomes a haven for mosquitoes in the monsoon season.

According to The Flood Control District of Maricopa County, Arizona’s desert environment “is conducive to flash flooding, due to unique soil and topography characteristics, winter and summer rainy seasons, and a widespread network of natural riverbeds, washes and channels.”

The other problem is that large urban areas are covered in concrete and asphalt, leaving no space for ground water absorption. Old communities run the risk of becoming flooded and new communities need to be built in compliance with 100-year floodplain analyses and regulations.

For example: “The lowest floor of the building must be elevated to the Regulatory Flood Elevation, which is one (1) foot above the floodway elevation or one (1) foot above the Base Flood Elevation, whichever is higher.” For more info go to http://www.fcd.maricopa.gov/Floodplain/faq.aspx

Hiring a geologist to look at your land before building and getting county information for your area before buying an old home is a good idea. Having this information at hand will help you decide if you do need to purchase flood insurance and what type of policy necessary to protect you from possible flood damage. Here's to a flood-free home sweet home. ~ J.S.

Sentimental Sundays: A soapbox on sweet-smellin' soaps!

2010-03-07T13:31:00.001-07:00

It may sound silly to say, but we're crazy for soap. Head over heels for it. In fact, one of us even lives in fear that gel and liquid soap will someday replace the tried-and-true bar. But as women who like being clean and smelling good, we both appreciate soap in its many forms ~ especially those soaps that are organic, local and sweetly scented.

A few months ago, we attended a green retailer event in front of Lola Coffee in downtown Phoenix. Next to our Ecosaurus booth sat Tracy Perkins, owner of Strawberry Hedgehog. Tracy was selling her delicious handmade soaps, and the aroma emanating from her booth was so wonderful we were tempted to buy several bars despite the fact we were there to sell, not shop.

In addition to wooing our olfactory systems and wallets, Tracy's goods piqued our interest because they are planet- and people-friendly. Strawberry Hedgehog soaps are made with certified organic plant-based oils and pure vegetable-based glycerin, they're gentle on the skin, and they leave no scum on the tub. (And that point of fact matters because few folks get stoked about a soap that cleans the body but dirties the tub, sink or shower.)

We encourage all to support Tracy's soap company, and we especially recommend trying her pure lavender and eucalyptus lime scents. Also, as superfans of soap, we suggest visiting Anthropologie, Sunflower Market and Whole Foods for bars that are natural, big and/or beautiful. And in the realm of the liquid stuff, our primary philosophy involves sticking with just that Philosophy, which is also based in Phoenix. ~J.S. & A.F.

Sentimental Sundays: Revisiting "Punch-Drunk Love" is sweet, sobering and strange

2010-02-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

"If you like pina coladas, and getting caught in the rain, if you're not into yoga, if you have half a brain..."

If you accept the fact that love doesn't always look how you'd expect.

One movie that drives home the point that love, like people, isn't cookie-cutter is Paul Thomas Anderson's "Punch-Drunk Love." Here are three out-of-the-ordinary ways that Barry, the main character played by Adam Sandler, awkwardly expresses affection for his love interest, Lena, played by Emily Watson.

1) "I'm lookin' at your face and I just wanna smash it... You're so pretty."
2) "At that restaurant, I beat up the bathroom... I'm sorry."
3) "Lena. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry I left you at the hospital. I called a phone-sex line... I called a phone-sex line before I met you, and four blond brothers came after me and they hurt you, and I'm sorry. Then I had to leave again because I wanted to make sure you never got hurt again. And I have a lot of puddings, and in six to eight weeks it can be redeemed. So if you could just give me that much time, I think I can get enough mileage to go with you wherever you go if you have to travel for your work. Because I don't ever want to be anywhere without you. So could you just let me redeem the mileage?"

In addition to showcasing lines that are awkwardly sincere, the "Punch-Drunk Love" script leaves room for a swallowable dose of comedy and romance (likely proportional to amounts found in real-life relationships). Take for example this quote from Barry, which is a precursor to a butt-kicking he gives the "mattress man": "I have a love in my life. It makes me stronger than anything you can imagine."

One of the many lessons we seem to learn and relearn in love and in life is that we must allow each day, each experience to take shape its own way. Regardless of love's look, sounds or shape, it remains real - and, in the movie "Punk-Drunk Love," love's reality is sweet, sobering and strange.

Kitchen Couture: Feast your eyes on delicious designer aprons

2010-02-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered what to give your favorite foodie who seems to have every tool of the gourmet trade?Consider these hand-made aprons from Pamwares (shown), as previously featured on the Bliss blog. Other delicious outlets for kitchen couture include: Anthropologie or Fancy Boutique.

Irresistible + random: How K-9’s Find Suspects

2010-02-25T10:49:00.006-07:00

Must-share motivation: Though the blockbuster voiceover makes this video feel like a satire, it's fo' shizzle serious - and pretty dang cool. If you have three minutes to spare for this clip, you’ll learn at least two important things: 1) when it comes to tracking crime, a dog’s nose knows; and 2) Chino, the snoop doggy-dogg, rules. ~ Ecosaurus

Forget dry wall. Some use PET bottles and mud.

2010-02-24T22:13:00.000-07:00

I have recently received an email from Brazil with these pictures of a house being constructed with PET bottles and mud. I searched all over the web for a source, but only came across other Brazilians asking the same question.

PET packaging is used for soft drinks and soda bottles among other things and it’s a big polluter of land and the sea. I’m not sure about the environmental impact of these new constructions, but I admire the creativity. ~J.S.

Consumer Reports Cars Blog: How to stop a runaway car: Five steps that can save your life

2010-02-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

Consumer Reports Cars Blog: How to stop a runaway car: Five steps that can save your life

Sentimental Sundays: Get Carried Away

2010-02-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

"If human love does not carry a man beyond himself it is not love. If love is always discreet, always wise, always sensible and calculating, never carried beyond itself, it is not love at all. It may be affection, it may be warmth of feeling, but it has not the true nature of love in it." ~ Oswald Chambers, Feb. 21 entry, "My Utmost for His Highest"

"Get Carried Away" is a phrase that makes me think of two things: a George Strait song and advertising for the "Sex and the City" movies. Today's devotional puts it in the context of love, and love touches every aspect of our lives. This is nothing new but a nice refresher.

Humans are always getting carried away by love - love of something, anything - including sports, snail mail, money, career, food, salsa on chips, sweets, technology and much more. We will spend significant chunks of time and money to be carried away or witness others being so, which explains our sacrificing sleep to see Olympic greatness in a half-pipe or opening our wallets to watch ho-hum films like "Valentine's Day," whose plot is carried along by the motion of getting carried away.

Whatever we love sweeps us up and dictates our direction in our daily routines (from our morning coffee to whether or not we make time to hit the gym). It also offers a nod to what we consider most meaningful in life (e.g., seeing the world, putting talents to use, serving others and seeking the company of our nearest and dearest).

While we act vs. think when we get carried away, it's worth occasionally reflecting on what carries us away and why. For me today it's coffee, church and cake - because it's a chilly rainy morning, a chilly rainy Sunday morning, and a chilly rainy Sunday morning on which I celebrate 34 years. And now, for another and unnecessary pre-church cup of coffee... and later, a heaping helping of cake. ~ A.F.

Designs You'll Want to Go to Bed With

2010-02-20T07:47:00.006-07:00

When I bought my house six years ago, I couldn’t find any contemporary bedding designs in Phoenix. It didn’t occur to me then to go online and purchase something from a store far away, and I was left feeling very frustrated. Today, homeowners no longer have to feel that frustration thanks to The DwellStudio® for Target® bedding collection - it is a designer's dream come true! (If only they were made with bamboo or organic cotton instead of regular cotton, but life can’t be perfect, right?) Visit the site to shop for these and more cool comforters - as well as sweet shower curtains and sheets. ~J.S.

Moisturizing in the Desert: Say no to snake skin!

2010-02-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

Arizona is not the best place for my skin. In fact, I don't think the desert is a ,place for humans in general. But I landed here after the Northridge earthquake in 2004, and I have learned to like it.

Body and facial moisturizers designed for the general public are not always efficient against the desert’s dry air. Before I decided to go green, I’ve tried big brands like Lancome and drugstore brands such as Nivea and Neutrogena. But when I passed the age of 30, it seemed like my skin was getting dry faster than usual. I could see it dying, and I needed to find products that kept my skin moisturized without injecting it with chemicals.

Lucky for me, Dr. Andrew Weil, who happens to be an Arizona native, has come up with a line of facial treatments for Origins. I’ve been a fan of Dr. Weil’s integrative medicine for a long time, even read some of his books, so I decided to try his products. I can honestly tell you that they are the best I’ve ever used.

Rhodiola: The creams are thick and luxurious. They leave my skin looking healthy and smooth, without any excess oil. The smell took a little time to get used to. Unlike the perfume-y chemicals added to most products, Dr. Weil's products are plant-based and smell more like medicine. However, the smell vanishes after the product gets absorbed into the skin, so no one will notice it but you.

In the morning I apply the Plantidote™ Mega-Mushroom Face Serum, followed by the Plantidote™ Mega-Mushroom Face Cream, and the Plantidote™ Mega-Mushroom Eye Serum, followed by Origins Youthtopia™ Firming eye cream (Dr. Weil doesn’t have an eye cream yet). At night I apply the same serums and eye cream from above, but change the facial cream to the Night Health™offered by Dr. Weil.

When removing makeup, I use the Plantidote™ Mega-Mushroom Eye Makeup Remover Pads with Therapeutic Benefits. I figured that what’s good for my eyes is good for my face. These pads are very gentle and soothing; however, if you use a lot of makeup you might find them too soft and should try his Plantidote™ Mega-Mushroom Face Cleanser. I use mineral-based makeup, which is very light and easy to remove.

For my body, I use The Way of the Bath™ Matcha Tea Body Lotion, it feels like I just came home from the spa. In fact, if you really want to pamper yourself try The Way of the Bath™ Matcha Tea Body Soak and The Way of the Bath™ Matcha Tea Body Scrub. I absolutely love them, and they smell wonderful.

For more information go to www.origins.com. If you try out these products, I would love to hear what you think! ~J.S.

Sentimental Sundays: My Funny Valentine

2010-02-14T23:30:00.002-07:00

LAUGHTER! This Valentine's Day, I celebrate laughter. Accordingly, this blog serves as the declaration of my love of laughter.

What baking soda and baking powder are to baked goods, humor is to friendships and relationships alike: the essential ingredient that adds volume and levity. Yes, a gut-splitting giggle offers reprieve during life's tougher times and tense moments, which explains why we are so partial to those with whom we can laugh. Furthermore, it isn't shocking that so many of us seek pals and mates who share our tastes, catch our eye, make our hearts go pitter-patter AND tickle our funny bone.

It turns out, however, that the funny bone isn't always calling the shots. Research suggests that humor is subjective and situational, and laughter is a survival mechanism for social creatures. It isn't about the joke being funny; rather, the joke is on us, the company we keep and our circumstances, so says this NYT write-up.

In light of and in spite of scientific studies, I am assigning even more gravity to that old adage, "those who laugh last." By consequence, I assume that those who don't laugh languish. And because I love laughing so much (cue that scene from Mary Poppins), I seek out every opportunity to do so - ever for the sake of volume and levity, but now also for survival.

The sources of a good guffaw are many, and I would like to propose four ways you can get your giggle on with friends, family or special someones.

1. Watch "Guess Who." This movie , starring Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher, is a perhaps unexpectedly entertaining remake of the much-revered "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner." In addition to inducing smiles and hoots, "Guess Who" makes me miss the late Mr. Mac and want to be friends with Kutcher, whom I already dug because he grew up in Iowa, married Demi, created "Punk'd" and is currently hatching plans to become a social media mogul.

2. Check out Brian Regan. In the car, around the house or on Comedy Central, this clean comedian will split your sides open with his quirky and creative observational stand-up that somehow taps into your childhood and grown-up experiences. Chuckles by Bri are available on iTunes.

3. Play Rock Band. You say you don't want to do it, but deep down you know you really want to. No matter how tone deaf your ear or lackluster your stage presence, you're going to love this - and you're going to wish you really were a rock star. Yes, they're all going to laugh at you. But you're going to laugh at them, too. And it's going to be great.

4. Just dance. These two words are eponymous with one of the many Lady Gaga tunes that gets overplayed on the radio. But I have to agree that "just dance, gonna be OK, da da doo-doo mmm, just dance" is a pretty good mantra. Dancing is good for the soul. Though not everyone looks good while dancing, shaking it is for everyone because it's fun, fun is for everyone, and fun puts smiles on faces and tee-hee's in tummies. If the club isn't for you, be a private dancer at a house party or expand your portfolio of moves with a Zumba class at the gym. Another option? Head to a cowboy bar to seize opportunities for slow-dancing, which leads to whispers, smiles, spins, dips, and before you know it, a long laugh.

Sentimental Sundays: You can call me Tweety, Squishy or Cupcake...

2010-02-07T10:43:00.000-07:00

In my bookshelf I keep a binder of articles I love, and a couple of them are about, well, love. One of those write-ups that remains available fee-free online is a column written by John Derbyshire on Feb. 20, 2004. In his piece, Derbyshire, a self-proclaimed pessimist, reveals that even he has a little schmoopy space in his heart.

The catalyst for such a confession was the annual "Book of Love," which is published by the New York Post as a 16-page pullout center section every February 14. The section is devoted to missives, in small-ad form, from love birds, or aspiring honey bears, to the objects of their affection. (You can check out last year's version here or simply wait one week to check out the 2010 edition.)

Derbyshire's article highlights some of 2004's most touching and funniest Valentine's Day tributes, mixing in his own thoughtful and entertaining commentary about how outpourings of love spur some hope for humanity. This article can be used to help bring down blood pressure after any of the following and then some:
* running late to yoga class because of commuter traffic and pesky red lights;
* seeing or even hearing the name of a certain former Alaska governor;
* or whatever else might be a bee in your bonnet.

Taking five minutes to read this will remind you that love is for everyone - the sweetest thing to remember Feb. 14 and the whole year through.

"Pink is my fav-o-rite crayon" ~ Aerosmith

2010-02-01T23:21:00.002-07:00

Through my blue eyes, I see February as pink - a month en rose. Valentine's Day is partly to blame. But so is my birthday, which lands seven days later. Because pink was my favorite color as a girl, I wanted to eat pink things and often requested a cherry chip birthday cake with blush-tinted buttercream frosting.

With that, on this first day of February, I thought it'd be fun to highlight a few fun pink products with recycled and/or planet-friendly content. Here they are - they're pink, they're girlie and they're great for gift-giving.

Oh, la la! Fashioned from a recycled Scrabble square by Etsy artist VanityDesign, this sweeting Eiffel Tower pendant is pretty in pink and very tempting at a purchase price of just $6.95. C'est magnifique!

Appropriately Stuffy: This 80 to 90 percent post-consumer recycled tissue paper, which comes from Sweet Organic via World of Good on eBay, is a femme and earth-friendly (or at least earth-friendlier) alternative to regular tissue paper. This pinky paper with chocolate dots is also stuffy - a quality not so desirable in friends but certainly ideal when it comes to packing presents. Stock up with a pack of four sizable sheets for just $2.

Skulls and spice and everything nice...

...that's what little girls' hair doodads are made of, or at least this one is. An old bottle cap finds new purpose when it's filled with a pic of a love-struck skull and affixed to polka-dot ribbon the hue of watermelon-flavored Hubba Bubba chewing gum. This doohickey serves as the perfect hair accessory for young ladies with sass and style. Pick up this piece of "boom, boom, hair pow!" from Bittersweetboo at ShopHandmade.com for just $4.

Your body, your billboard:Recycleatee.com offers designer organic t-shirts at wallet-friendly prices (in the 'hood of $20). Not only that, but these oh-so-soft summery tops are PVC-free, phthalate-free and printed with eco-friendly inks. Better still? They're made in the U.S.A. While there was much to fancy at Recyclatee, we at Ecosaurus fell for this design by Andrew Harbott - "don't talk trash" - set against a pale pink background. ~ A.F.

Sentimental Sundays: What's love got to do, got to do with it?

2010-01-31T22:14:00.002-07:00

Valentine's Day is around the corner. I know a lot of folks are put off by this fete - a k a Singles Awareness Day (SAD), this Hallmark holiday, this day when displays of affection are obligatory. Even though I'm a lone wolf right now, I, and probably every kid under the age of 10, enjoy this holiday.

When we were young, Valentine's Day was all about lovin' up on our families, our friends and fellow classmates. At my elementary school, we would festoon old shoeboxes in pink, red and white paper, cutout hearts, ribbons, paper doilies and whatever other eye-candy we could cut out and affix to the things with glue sticks and tape. Upon completing our decorative odyssey, we would cut slits in the top of the boxes so fellow classmates could slip their missives inside. Adding to this red-letter day at St. Paul's the Apostle School were lil' boxes of chalky heart candies and fancy cupcakes or cookies made by "room mothers."

In junior high and high school, Valentine's Day became a sticky mess, kind of like when chewing gum gets stuck in someone’s hair. Absent from both of these academic scenarios were the big-pimpin' shoeboxes that guaranteed a heaping helping of love for all students. Elementary inclusiveness evaporated, and adolescent exclusivity and natural selection took over (i.e., pretty much everyone "liking" the same two super-cute boys or girls who suffered from high self-esteem). Love became less about families, more about friends and most about someone special. The latter was tricky to navigate and often handled clumsily through candy grams and carnations peddled by our student council. And receiving either a cherry sucker or affordable flower from someone you considered “not-so special” was worse than receiving nothing at all. All told, the day intended for fun and loving became about fear and loathing.

But thankfully, junior high and high school don't last forever. As grown-ups, we have the freedom to define Valentine's Day in our own ways and create traditions for ourselves, our children - just as we do with many other holidays. I have long chosen and will continue to choose to devote this February holiday to big love and kid things such as fancy-pants shoeboxes and pink-frosted sweets. What do you choose? Let Ecosaurus know, and feel free to share your sweet ideas and lovely photos of your Valentine's Day cards, cupcakes and more on our Facebook page. ~ A. F.

Breathe. Celebrate. Inspire. And put recycled magic in someone's mailbox.

2010-01-25T21:49:00.000-07:00

You know how sometimes you want to write a letter, but you're having trouble finding the words to get started? Well, with the newly introduced Ecosaurus Interactive Boxed Set, you won't have that problem. This box of recycled greeting cards offers punchy, on-point messages for a myriad of occasions - all you have to do is circle the words or check the boxes that apply (a la Mad Libs). Plus, these cards offer plenty of white space inside for senders who need to spill their guts, offer updates or accommodate extremely large, loopy penmanship. So start your year off "write," order a box today, and use one of these missives to put a little magic in someone's mailbox. www.shopecosaurus.com.

Sentimental Sunday: A Weekly Series Devoted to Outpourings of Affection

2010-01-24T21:15:00.001-07:00

Love makes the world go round, and it plays a starring role in two things we at Ecosaurus care about: 1) snail mail (love, if you think about it, is behind almost every card or letter ever sent to friends, family and luvahs); and 2) sustainability (our love of our home, i.e., planet earth, causes us to consider our resources).

So, with that in mind, we're pleased to launch a blog series founded on love. We're calling it "Sentimental Sundays: A Weekly Series Devoted to Outpourings of Affection." In it, we will be highlighting and recycling lovely sentiments from various mediums, some of which will have relevance to what you might say or write to your near and dear ones.

Entry 1: In this, our first entry, we give a shout out to the film "Napoleon Dynamite." Among the love lessons in this film? Sometimes words aren't enough. Sometimes you have to get creative. You may be wondering...

Keep in mind, if you decide you are going to build someone a cake, do include a card and remember - there are no guarantees that he or she will accept your invitation to the dance. Even so, cakes are fantastic and, regardless of whether someone likes you back, without a doubt he/she will "take the cake."

Speaking of taking, here are some other creative takeaways on relationships from this cult classic. You may wish to consider these expressions as cues for your imminent Valentine's Day missives.

Another way to say "your body = rockin'": "You could be drinking whole [milk] if you wanted to." (Napoleon to Deb)

Another way to say "I like you": "I caught you a delicious bass." (Napoleon to Deb.)

How deep is your love? Here's one way to express the depths of your affection: Write/say/sing "I love (insert whatever you are obsessed with, be it technology or something else)," and then say, "but not as much as you, you see." (Kip to LaFawnduh, following the credits)

The Art of Searches Leads to the Art of Letter Writing, Manliness

2010-01-13T19:41:00.002-07:00

A couple weeks ago, conflicting reports about National Card and Letter Writing Month led me to Google to find out whether the designated time frame for such a campaign was the month of January, as specified in one consumer magazine, or the month of April, as previously noted. Turns out, it is tougher to find a right answer than one would think. But after poking around I've decided to put my eggs in the baskets of the USPS and answers.com, opting for the stretch of time from April 1 through Mother's Day. An exciting time for stamp collectors and snail-mail mavens. And exciting stuff for Ecosaurus.

Speaking of exciting, the aforementioned searching led me to a wonderful site called "The Art of Manliness" and its April 16, 2009 entry entitled "The Art of Letter Writing." This is a beautiful step-by-step account on how to properly pen a missive to a far-flung friend or lover. Rather than attempting to outdo bloggers Brett and Kate McKay with a rewrite (pretty much impossible), I will simply link to their feature here. Lovely and manly, like the rest of the killer content on their site, this article is the perfect primer for April 2010's National Card and Letter Writing Month, as well as for Valentine's Day, which is just around the bend...

Famous painters visiting Rio

2009-12-29T13:31:00.002-07:00

If famous painters went to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this is what their paintings would probably look like:

These paintings are by Lielzo Azambuja, an old friend. There are many more on his site, take a look: http://lielzoazambuja.com/galleries/classicos_visitam_o_rio

~ J.S.

Sir Henry Cole: Commissioner of the first Christmas card

2009-12-24T12:14:00.000-07:00

History buffs and senders of seasonal salutations will enjoy the tale of the first Christmas card as written by Mental Floss's Matt Soniak. One takeaway tidbit: More than 2 billion Christmas cards are sent every year.

All for relaxation, and relaxation for all: Volume IV

2009-12-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

Last weekend's Zenergy Yoga boutique event featured a mix of extraordinary earth-minded businesses owned by women of the Valley of the Sun. This is our fourth blog devoted to one of these special companies, and it features Tiffany Buntin's Relax Pack.

In 2003, Relax Pack founder Tiffany Buntin was a newlywed of a year and a half who suddenly and inexplicably became overcome with pain and fatigue. In the ensuring months and years, Tiffany devoted countless hours and tens of thousands of dollars to seeking a diagnosis and some relief from what has since been dubbed fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. (You can read her entire story here.)

While she hasn't found the cause or the cure, Tiffany has found several ways to cope - one of which is heat. Over the years, she purchased heat packs from various Web sites and vendors, only to find that some of them included chemicals that were toxic and irritating to her body. Because she was unable to find natural options, she decided to start a business making organic packs with the goal of not only helping herself, but helping others like her who just want a little respite - if only 10 minutes - from their pain during the day. Her packs are 100 percent organic, using fabric, flax and herbs from certified organic vendors. The mix of herbs inside the packs are blends recommended by expert aromatherapists to maximize the potential for relaxation, relief and healing. Visit Tiffany's site, www.relaxpack.com, to learn more about her products and how they might help you or someone you love.

All for funk, and funk for all: Volume III

2009-12-11T23:08:00.002-07:00

Last weekend's Zenergy Yoga boutique event featured a mix of extraordinary earth-minded businesses owned by women of the Valley of the Sun. This is our third blog on one of these special companies, and this evening we are featuring Funky Buddha Company: Treasures that get your smile on.

Who doesn't want treasures that get your smile on? Exactly. Funky Buddha is the creation of Jenny Kirgis, a global corporate professional by day and funky moonlighting maven by night and weekend. Her business - which is online and mobile, roving around the city and state to various markets - features recycled, organic and fair trade gems from around the world. Whether you're seeking a gift for someone you know, a goodie for yourself or even sweet-smelling soap for your shower shelf, this is a great place to go for one-of-kind worldly wares as well as high-quality yoga supplies. Among our favorite offerings? The Peace Messenger Bag and the Downward-Facing Dog Yoga Rug. Visit the site now to feel the funk for yourself.

Subway Art

2009-12-09T10:07:00.002-07:00

I recently came across a PowerPoint presentation with photos of the Stockholm subway system which is said to be the world's longest art exhibit. Its stations have been decorated with sculptures, mosaics, paintings, installations, engravings and reliefs by more than 150 artists. For those of you who haven't seen these images before, here they are.

You can read more about the subway here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stockholm_Metro. And see more photos here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/vargklo/sets/72057594140322750/

Lastly, there are other amazing subway photos from around the world here: http://mic-ro.com/metro/metroart.html ~J.S.

Cool Buy: Scrappy, sustainable and sensational scarves

2009-12-08T21:40:00.000-07:00

Reclaimed T-Shirt Scarves from Uncommon Goods give warmth to your neck and second life to scraps of material collected from apparel factories. Made in the U.S.A. by Green 3, these super-soft, cozy and one-of-a-kind scarves are available online for just $25.

All for Oneness, and Oneness for All: Volume II

2009-12-08T20:06:00.003-07:00

This weekend's Zenergy Yoga boutique event featured a mix of extraordinary earth-minded business owned by women of the Valley of the Sun. This is our second spotlight blog on these special companies, and today we are featuring European Yoga and its founder, Zuzana Kolinkova.

Perhaps a matter of survival of the fittest, yoga is one truly fit tradition that dates back more than 7,000 years - and more than three generations in Zuzana's family. Zuzana learned about the practice at a young age, initially becoming acquainted with asana at her grandmother's studio. Today, Zuzana is a "keeper of the art," helping people around the world to develop and further their practices through in-person teaching as well as her instructional DVD, "The Art of Flow with Zuzana." Her philosophy? Yoga is for everyone and something to be pursued at any age as part of a health and wellness regimen. To learn more about Zuzana and her teaching - or to pick up quality earth-minded spa and yoga goods - visit www.europeanyoga.com.

One for all, all for one: Volume 1

2009-12-07T21:42:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Scottsdale's Zenergy Yoga hosted a small holiday boutique event featuring a handful of local companies that offer earth-friendly goods and services. While it was nice to receive exposure for Ecosaurus through pre-event e-blasts and the couple dozen yogis and yoginis who passed through between classes, the highlight for us was connecting with the other women business owners.

Like anything, businesses are born out of passion, pain, tradition and various life experiences - all with the intention of meeting a need or fulfilling a desire. The women who were selling wares at the boutique event are inspiring souls whose time, talent and companies are geared toward healing, healthful living, connecting with others, and finding balance and beauty in an earth-friendly fashion. This week, our blog posts are devoted to these inspiring peeps, their stories and their businesses.

emagine Green:

This company is the brainchild of many women and mothers who believe in a better way of living, better purchasing options and a better way of doing business. Their hope? Awareness + Action = Impact. emagine Green sells non-toxic cleaning products, handcrafted personal-care products, pure soy candles, urban composting solutions and more - all of which are available online, through in-home parties and in select retail outlets. Our recommendation as a gift to yourself or someone who loves soothing scents: the vanilla or lavender soy candle. Yum. Want to learn more? Contact Meghan Baillargeon!

Green lanterns (and other super colors, too)!

2009-11-26T13:30:00.001-07:00

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to add festive ambience to your home this holiday season, consider creating a handful of pretty lanterns from paper scraps you have around the house (e.g., leftover gift wrap, old magazines, etc.). These lanterns are simple to construct, and yet they make sensational additions to tabletops, mantels, shelves, windows and doorways.

Supplies:
1. Fun and colorful paper
2. Clear tape
3. Scissors
4. Ribbon and ornament hooks (optional)

Instructions:
1. Cut paper to desired lantern height and circumference.
2. Fold paper in half horizontally.
3. Make cuts up from the fold, about two-thirds of the way to the opposite edge.
4. Stand paper on edge to create a tube (the fold will create an expandable midsection), securing closure with tape.
5. Cut slice of matching paper to fashion a handle, securing with tape.

Display options:
1. Arrange lanterns on table, shelf, mantel or windowsill, and place LED tea lights inside them to create a soft, safe glow. (Note: Do NOT use candles. Doing so poses a fire hazard.)
2. Use a lengthy piece of string or ribbon to create a garland, hanging it across a window or doorway. Then use ornament hooks to hang lanterns in a pleasing arrangement.

Homemade gifts back in style ~ good for the budget, soul and sweet tooth

2009-11-22T08:45:00.017-07:00

This holiday season, the office (my day job) has replaced the annual Secret Santa exchange with a homemade gift swap. The house-made booty can be food, crafts or any other good idea that comes to mind - and the item in question must be presented in a recycled shell of some kind (old gift wrap, tins, boxes, bags, etc.). Each week, all gifts will be assembled on a table for a drawing. All of us will pull a number from a hat, match the number to the gift (no swapping), and walk away with the delectable or decorative fruits of a coworker's labor.

While I generally seek out ways to reuse materials around the house in fun fashion (see: the egg-carton wreath, butterfly straws, and most recently "the tea tin turned candy dish," shown in this post), this four-week gift exchange is taking the creativity quotient to a new level for me as well as my colleagues.

And why not you, too? This season, go easy on your budget and spark green-tinted creativity in your soul by brainstorming how you can reduce, reuse and recycle to build remarkable gifts for those who will appreciate them. The process is likely to inspire you. And perhaps that inspiration will trickle into other areas of your life, giving you new eyes with which to admire this old world. A wonderful exercise as we close out 2009 and prepare to embrace 2010.

Go Green Tube - Broadcast Planet Earth - Ecosaurus

2009-11-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Go Green Tube - Broadcast Planet Earth - Ecosaurus

La Vida Local

2009-11-07T22:32:00.005-07:00

CERTIFIED LOCAL.
CERTIFIABLY COOL.

Today, Ecosaurus spent six hours alongside other Arizona-based businesses at the Fifth Annual Certified Local Fall Festival put on by Local First Arizona. The thoughtfully orchestrated event couldn't have happened on a better day, with the sun overhead, a breeze in the air and a happy feeling among the crowds who turned out.
   For Ecosaurus, it was a splendid day - the best we've ever had at a trade show or market, with lots of attendees making purchases and uttering kind words about our recycled note cards and gift wrap. Furthermore, our market experience underscored the value of being part of an organization that pulls for local companies as Local First Arizona does.
   Did you know? When you shop at a locally owned business, 45 cents of every dollar stays in the Grand Canyon State, as opposed to only 13 cents of every dollar spent at a national chain. Get savvy on the local goods and services available to you with this directory of Local First Arizona members, categorized for your convenience. (Note: Other cities and states also boast similar organizations, and Google can help you find them.)
   Local businesses are worth supporting not only because they keep more coin in the community, but because they tend to spur a city's goods and services in diverse and creative ways. Not to mention, they help maintain or raise the bar in terms of quality and/or sustainability.
   Last but not least, local businesses can generate a sense of pride for a town. Because everyone's buy-in and contributions are needed to make success a reality for start-ups, such contributions tend to create a sense of ownership among the patrons as well as the business owners themselves. Another byproduct of all this? Relationships... and that's what it's all about! (Do the hokey pokey...)
   A heartfelt thanks from Ecosaurus to all the people we met at the market today. Certified local. Certifiably cool.

Go loco for local!

2009-11-03T22:13:00.001-07:00

This weekend, Ecosaurus will join dozens of other local companies at the Fifth Annual Certified Local Fall Festival. It's sure to be a sunny and super Saturday in Phoenix, so come out, join in the fun and support your Arizona-based businesses!

Bitten by and smitten with the green bug

2009-10-28T18:43:00.001-07:00

This "green bug" in my title isn't a sustainable one, though this little green bug's appeal has certainly been sustained for years and years. Forty-seven, in fact.

The photo of this Volkswagen Beetle makes me happy. When I look at this picture, many things come to mind. (Though not a thousand words.)

For starters, I remember the home tour on which I saw cute-yet-classy automobile, a pleasant tour I took with friends Lorie and Laurie on an April afternoon. The car's plates make me think of my dad, who was born in 1952. Next, my mind jumps to my father's dislike of German-made cars - he always says they have a certain smell about them. (When I was younger, I thought he was nuts. Nowadays, though, I do sense a distinct scent when riding in my friends' newer and stylish VW's...)

This photo also mixes the past and present in a way that's anachronistic, especially given the sepia tone that masks the car's old-timin' sage coloring and the hues of surrounding objects. Take the old VW with modern-day Arizona plates, the newer Dodge Durango, the 60's-style homes, the tall trees of Tuscany aligned by height like students, the sprinkling of the palms so associated with Phoenix, Palm Springs and the beaches of L.A. Ultimately, I think this photo to be a metaphor for life ~ a mix of space and time. For good or ill, there can be no undoing of the overlap, these connections we experience... and isn't that kind of neat?

I guess such connections - and the fact that this little Beetle showcases human potential for sustaining and caring for something in superlative fashion - offer reason to consider how we live while providing hope that we can figure out how to sustain and care for our common address (the earth). Slug bug! ~ A.F.

"Holiday... Celebrate..."

2009-10-16T00:22:00.002-07:00

Madonna's self-titled album, "Madonna," was the first cassette tape I ever owned. I received it for Christmas in second grade, and boy, was I ever excited. Accordingly, I pretty much remember everything about that nearly-worn-out tape. The iconic album cover (left) -- featuring the soon-to-be material girl with a tightly cropped, disheveled platinum 'do, heavy black eyeliner and chunky bracelets that made you wonder if she really had forearms or wrists -- has been burned into my brain since 1983. The star's look was one every girl emulated in fine detail or broad strokes, depending on what her parents permitted. (I had some black jelly bracelets...) Furthermore, I knew and still know that album by heart. In fact, I am quite confident I could sing along to most or all of the songs, including one of its most celebrated tracks, "Holiday."

"...If we took a holiday

Took some time to celebrate

(Come on, let's celebrate)

Just one day out of life

(Holiday)

It would be, it would be so nice

You can turn this world around

And bring back all of those happy days

Put your troubles down

It's time to celebrate

Let love shine

And we will find

A way to come together

And make things better

We need a holiday..."

What a simple, kicky song. And what a simple, relevant message. OK, I realize that sounds extra cheesy. But bear with me another moment.

Now more than ever, because of or in spite of the recession, we, the people, need a holiday. The tune of this year's November/December/January celebrations may be different than those of 2005, but the soundtrack needn't be any less joyful. Even now, there's joy to be found in togetherness (especially if we took a holiday, took some time to celebrate), there's also hope and awareness (we can turn this world around), and there are plenty of deals to be had to keep it festive (come on, it's time to celebrate).

To add a little pop to your 2009 year-end festivities, Ecosaurus recommends adding Madonna's "Holiday" to your seasonal music mix (not surprising). Furthermore, we suggest you seize the day and the available deals. Because it's time to celebrate, we are offering some great deals on our eco-friendly recycled paper products. Please check them out on our newly updated Web site. "Holiday... Celebrate..." ~ A.F.

Wrap Star: Ecosaurus Recycled Gift Wrap

2009-10-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

Beautifully wrapped gifts make for tempting treats beneath the Christmas tree, but following the present-opening-palooza - these pretty paper shells often make one-way trips to local landfills.

But not all gift wrap is eco-oblivious, and not all wrapping paper deserves a bad wrap. But you have to know what's what.

There are more and more companies branding their paper goods as "100 percent recycled." But it's important to know that there's more to green gift wrap than the recycled content of the paper. For starters, there's the post-consumer-waste composition, the processing, the choice of inks and much more. We encourage you to visit this site to decode the buzzwords and terms that are used to "greenwash" a product and potentially mislead consumers into thinking a purchase option is greener than it is.

We at Ecosaurus are proud that we've gone above and beyond to ensure you a fresh, truly green option in gift wrap. Our recycled gift wrap is made from 100-percent-recycled paper with a 50-percent post-consumer-waste composition. What else? Our paper is Forest Stewardship Council Certified, processed chlorine free, printed with vegetable-based inks and made in the U.S.A. Last but not least, Ecosaurus gift wrap, unlike most wrapping paper, can be placed in the recycle bin when the gift-opening festivities come to a close on Christmas morning (and on other present-perfect occasions).

But the bottom line is you gotta fancy the look of something in order to buy it. So take a look at our collection. We hope you like it. Shop green. Feel good. Ecosaurus.

Sleep tight and sweet dreams!

2009-09-23T08:01:00.014-07:00

Are you often tired? Do people who rest easy make you green with envy? Indeed, it's hard to be earth-friendly (or people-friendly) when you're short on sleep. Here's a list of factors and habits that inhibit shuteye and suggestions on how you can sleep better.

Caffeine: Try not to drink it after 5 p.m.
Stress: Drink chamomile tea or take a hot bath to help you relax before slipping into the sheets. Reading a book to distract your mind from the day’s activities will also help you to relax.
Too much thinking: Write down your ruminations before going to bed, and keep a notebook beside your bed so you can jot down thoughts, ideas or to-do's that wake you up in the night.
Constipation: Load up on fiber to keep things moving.
Inconsistent routines: Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time seven days a week. Doing so will help your body to settle into a sleep-friendly rhythm.
Light: Streetlights and alarm clock lights can disrupt your sleep. If they do, use blackout shades, and position your clock at a distance from your bed.
Sound: Consider ear plugs or sound machines to help block noise or generate sleep-friendly sounds.
Low serotonin: Serotonin regulates sleep, reduces pain and appetite, and generally calms you down and improves your mood. Sugar is said to help serotonin levels rise. If you wake up at night, try eating something sweet or add a tablespoon of sugar to a glass of water. ~ "Food & Mood," Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D. Henry Holt and Company, LLC, 1999.
Dehydration: Some say that lack of sleep causes dehydration and vice versa. Drink water during the day, but try not to drink it too close to bedtime because a full bladder will wake you up.
Hot temperatures: Cool it. Lower temperatures help your body relax and go into sleep mode faster.
Sleep attire: Go buck! When it comes to pajamas, less is more. Sleeping naked is actually ideal because clothes can make you uncomfortable even if you don't notice them while unconscious. Adding blankets instead of clothes will leave your body free to move around, and you’ll be able to toss or cover to control the temperature.
Strong smells: Avoid air fresheners, aromatic candles and potpourri in the bedroom.
Mattresses and pillows: Invest in high-quality ergonomic mattresses and pillows.
Linens: Select soft sweat absorbent choices such as bamboo or high-thread count organic cotton to create an ideal sleep surface.

Sweet dreams!

~J.S.

America's water supply needs an Erin Brockovich

2009-09-13T21:08:00.011-07:00

This weekend a telling and scary story, which is part of an even more telling and scarier series, "Toxic Waters," ran in the New York Times. The piece, along with its accompanying video, detail the dark and deathly tolls toxic water is taking on our nation with a special focus on the highly polluted coal-mining area of Charleston, W.V.

In the area about 15 miles from West Virginia's capitol city, high-speed Internet is a given, but clean water isn't. This is a place where tap water and toothbrushes don't mix, and bath time is a "get in, get clean and get out before your skin develops more sores" affair.

Safe water, easy access to it and wise use of it are characteristics that distinguish developed countries from the undeveloped. We in America have the means to do better when it comes to our water resources, and yet we aren't doing it. Meanwhile, municipalities across the nation are running dry on monies, motivation and manpower to fearlessly police, enforce and fine offending parties. Ultimately, polluting to save a buck is costing our nation dearly. And the major companies within it, and likely our government, will have to pay a pretty penny to make this big boo-boo better.

America's water supply needs an Erin Brockovich. Here's hoping that whoever is tasked with cleaning up water will be able to effect change, restore the purity of our most precious resource, and save the people who are being robbed of their health by water's presently polluted condition. ~A.F.

What the...font?!

2009-09-06T13:50:00.013-07:00

Ikea's recent shift in its catalog font has created great backlash among its customers around the globe, underscoring the fact that fonts are to words what couture is to fashion. here's a look at the Ikea discussion in various cities, as well as a few other texts that show and tell how the clothes of words affect our feelings about the meanings behind them.

New York Times: Outrage Over Shift in Ikea Catalog Fonts

AP.com (Stockholm): More Outrage Over Shift In Ikea Catalog Fonts

TorontoSun: What's in a Font?

Other Written Fonts of Font:

Defining "font" with Wiki

The Atlantic: What's In a Font?

BestPhotoshopTutuorials.com: 40 Tantalizing Examples of Ad Typography

Cards are superheroes

2009-09-05T09:29:00.020-07:00

A card is a little superhero - and its envelope and stamp serve as its tights and cape. Once a card flies to where it needs to go, it can use its superpower strength to save the day, lift a heavy mood, kick up a chuckle or two, relay gratitude and spread love like jam on toast.

We at Ecosaurus are card sharks. I cannot get enough of the things. I delight in the process of selecting a card from my drawer, penning a message, slipping it into an envelope, sealing it, stamping it, placing it in a blue metal box - knowing it'll make the journey across the miles to reach the intended recipient. To me, snail mail is magical.

In times like these - when everything is instantaneous and electronic and money is tight - mail's magical quotient seems to be on the rise. (The following campaign, good thru 9/7, further supports this idea: Hope is in the Cards. Check it out.) The anticipation (for the sender), the lack of expectation (for the recipient) and the potential for inspiration (for all parties) conspire to create a perfect storm for tangible satisfaction. Upon delivery, snail mail becomes touchable joy you can push into your back pocket, post on your fridge or pitch on your kitchen window sill.

Take a second to remember the last time you discovered a real letter amidst the junk mail and bills littering your mailbox... If the corners of your mouth turn up as your mind revisits that moment, then make a card or buy a card (we recommend our fresh, earth-loving note cards, of course); ink out a sentiment; slide the thing into an envelope; stamp it and unleash the superpowers of a card on someone you love or just plain like.

A Love of Trees

2009-09-03T20:04:00.002-07:00

"There is so much humanity in a love of trees, so much nostalgia for our first sense of wonder, so much power in just feeling our own insignificance when we are surrounded by nature... yes, that's it: just thinking about trees and their indifferent majesty and our love for them teaches us how ridiculous we are–vile parasites squirming on the surface of the earth–and at the same time how deserving of life we can be, when we can honor this beauty that owes us nothing." ~ Excerpt from The Elegance of the Hedgehog, page 169, by Muriel Barbery

The Incredible (Tho’ Not Edible) Egg-Carton Wreath

2009-08-30T08:44:00.015-07:00

A recent Dallas Business Journal article reported Michaels craft stores had a $2 million profit in the second quarter. My deduction? When people are counting pennies, they stay home and get crafty.

They also get healthy. I didn’t learn this from reading; I learned it through doing and going to work. My coworkers and I have gone whole hog for wellness this year, committing ourselves to healthy habits and fitness. In our quest to look, feel and be fabulous, we have consumed many, many eggs (and often just egg whites).

Eating lots of eggs not only boosts energy and muscles, it produces a lot of empty, purposeless egg cartons So I got to thinking about different ways I might reuse egg cartons. The possibilities are endless. Today, I give you one: how to create a recycled wreath to dress up doors, walls, cakes and gifts. (Note: Parents can make this a kid-friendly project by preparing a few steps in advance ~ perhaps creating the wreath and allowing the kids to stuff the paper into the various pieces.)

Supplies:

Egg cartons
Scissors
Hot glue gun and glue sticks (or regular Elmer's glue to make this kid-friendly)
An old magazine or sheet of gift wrap (paper must bunch up easily)
Cardboard (to use as a backer for larger wreaths)
Optional: Ribbon and hole punch to create a hook for hanging

Instructions:

1) Cut up the egg carton. Trim the edges of each piece to create uniform shape and height.

2) Line up carton pieces to create a to-scale mock-up of your wreath. If making a larger wreath, find a piece of cardboard to construct a sturdy backer to which you can glue carton pieces.

3) Use hot glue gun (or regular glue) to attach carton pieces to one another or to the cardboard backer in a pleasing arrangement.

4) Cut 2x2-inch squares of old magazine pages, gift wrap or paper scraps. You can go with one color, a melange of hues, text-filled pages or any theme you like. Shoot a dollop of hot glue (or regular glue) into the carton piece, crumple up a square of paper and place it snugly into the carton piece. Repeat to fill all carton pieces.

5) Allow wreath to dry, remove any strands of glue from the wreath.

6) Use wreath as eye candy by hanging it where you can enjoy it!

For step-by-step photos of the recycled-wreath-making process, please visit our Facebook page.

Other ideas using the same techniques:

Make letters (initials) for people you love
Create a peace sign
Construct a picture frame

Keep your greens: 18 tips for saving $ now

2009-08-25T17:49:00.027-07:00

Because money doesn't grow on trees (even though it seemed to in 2005), easy money and mindless acquisitions are no longer. Instead, hard-earned dollars and thoughtful purchases are the way of our world, which means everyone is focused on necessities and saving a buck. Here are 18 ways to consider cutting costs now.

Weigh quality against cost. Buying items that will last many years is a better value than buying cheaper goods that will fall apart and require immediate replacement.
Consider going to beauty schools and institutes of natural aesthetics and massage for your (discounted) pampering needs.
Donate instead of selling. You’ll get more money back from tax deductions than from yard sales.
If you have a cell phone, consider dropping your landline.
Learn to negotiate. Companies don't want to loose their customers and may be willing to cut you a deal to keep your business.
Shop with a budget and a shopping list to avoid impulse purchases.
Borrow books, music and movies from your local library - the selection is likely to be better than you think.
Trim grocery bills by planning a couple of meat-less meals each week.
Learn how to save energy and money at http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index.
Find deals on prescriptions at pillbot.com or pharmacychecker.com.
Compare your insurance rate to other available rates at www.insurance.com.
Shop for used items at www.craigslist.org/about/sites or swap yours at www.freecycle.org.
Negotiate your vacation at priceline.com or cheapcheapcheap.com.
Calculate your budget at www.mint.com, https://www.pearbudget.com and http://www.justthrive.com/
Discover online deals at dealnews.com, www.pricegrabber.com, www.gazaro.com, www.pricespider.com/index/aspx, shopittome.com, promotionalcodes.com www.freeshipping.org
Find grocery store deals at http://www.redplum.com and http://coupons2.smartsource.com/smartsource/index.jsp?Link=5S2ZUA6PWPEPO.
Get discount coupons for restaurants at http://www.restaurant.com/index.asp? and http://www.entertainment.com/discount/home.shtml.
Find out which stations offer the best gas prices at http://www.gasbuddy.com/.

Do a little, do a lot

2009-08-22T20:01:00.006-07:00

Today I was ruffling through a stack of old magazines and came across an April 2007 copy of Real Simple. I tore out some cool pictures for crafty purposes and reread a few articles, one of which focused on earth-friendly living. It was a good refresher, and some of the tips struck me as being worth recycling in a blog. Here are four.

1. Get the lint out

Drying clothes costs the average U.S. household $135/year. If your dryer has a full lint filter, it may require up to 30 percent more energy to get the job done.

2. Pick recycled paper products

If every home purchased just one pack of 100-percent-recycled napkins, it would save one million trees! FYI, check out one U.S. manufacturer whose paper products - including Kleenex and Cottonelle - are heading for greener pastures.

3. Tap that...off

A standard faucet used three gallons of water per minute. So go stream-free when you brush or shave. (Yeah, seems like a no-brainer... but I know people who still don't think to go stream-free at the sink!)

4. Consider your computation device

A laptop uses about half the energy of a desktop. Look for models with Energy Star ratings, which require 70 percent less juice than a non-certified option. ~A.F.

If you're happy and you know it, show your teeth

2009-08-21T16:06:00.002-07:00

It's Friday, and if this smiling horse isn't something to smile about, what is?

The quest for a less oily hair

2009-08-11T11:45:00.009-07:00

If, like me, you're a person whose hair is constantly trying to make "Grease Lightning" its theme song, you have probably noticed how hard it is to find a shampoo that’s specific to oily hair.

I thought I had a solution to offer other "oil heads" when I started working on this blog. But as I was doing my research to flesh out my write-up, I came across Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database and learned that the shampoos I’ve been using are considered moderate hazards not to be recommended. So rather than endorsing a particular product, I've pulled together some tips for people who are trying to cope with oily hair.

1) If you are taking birth-control pills, check with your doctor to make sure they’re not at the root of your problem. I quit taking mine, and my hair and my body feel much healthier now.

2) Make your thyroid a suspect. You'd be surprised at just how many problems the thyroid can cause!

3) Make shampoo a daily 'do.' People always talk about how washing your hair every day is a bad thing - but that's only true if your scalp/hair are normal. Those of us with oily domes do need a daily dose of suds! When showering, I lather my locks once to take the excess dirt, rinse it well, and then lather up again. If you have the time, it's best to let the shampoo sit in your hair for five minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

4) Carefully consider shampoo's chaser. If conditioners are a must, only apply it to ends. Otherwise, consider using a diluted vinegar or lemon juice. Brittanie's Thyme also makes a lavender hair wine that's worth a whirl. (I haven't tried the hair wine myself, but it's listed on the safe-product database.)

6) Limit brushing. Brushing your mane stimulates the glands, creates oil and then pulls it through your hair. So don't brush with abandon, and if you can, switch out your brush for a wide-tooth comb.

I hope these tips come in handy for you as they have for me! If you happen to come across an earth-and-health-friendly shampoo, please let me - and our followers - know by posting a comment. ~ J.S.

A shout out from the suburban to urban!

2009-08-10T17:55:00.003-07:00

HOLLAAAAA! Ecosaurus would like to send a shout-out to Rebecca at Ann Sullivan for giving our paper goods props in the resources portion of the company Web site. It's always nice to have a fresh inbound link, but even nicer still is having customers who purchased our cards ago and loved them enough to give our brand a nod with their Web site six months later. Thank you, Team Ann Sullivan!

But wait - are you wondering "who-the-what" is Ann Sullivan? Ann Sullivan is a Big Apple-based professional organizer, and her site is dedicated to helping folks get their homes, businesses and lives in order in a smart and often eco-friendly way. While the site is still in its infancy, it has the potential to become a great resource on ways decluttering your life, greening your purchases and upping the inspiration ante.

Quick & healthy food fixes on the go

2009-08-09T09:28:00.004-07:00

If you're about green living and the health of our planet, you're likely to be about eating greens and the health of your body. We all know it's much easier to control the content of our meals when eating at home - after all, we're the ones stocking the cupboards. But even the best cooks, most religious lunch-and-snack packers and most calorie-and-energy minded among us will occasionally find ourselves far from the fridge and in need of food now. This article from Health Magazine offers insights on places around town where it's possible to grab, go and refuel without the guilt.

Classic Lines, Timely Deal

2009-08-07T22:43:00.020-07:00

While the classic appeal of Ecosaurus Stripes note cards will endure style shifts and changing seasons, our sale on them won't! Boxes of Stripes recycled cards are now available for just $7 - a savings of $5 per box! Get them here while it's hot out! Offer good through August 31, 2009.

Inspiration: A Week in Review

2009-07-12T09:32:00.010-07:00

If your eyes, ears and mind are open, you're likely to be inspired at many turns. Here are a few things that caught my eye, pricked up my ears and tugged at my heart and mind during this past week.

Poster Perfect

Th is great poster, which can be yours in a point-and-click minute on Etsy, made its way into my heart and will soon make its way into my home.

Music Box

Last weekend I saw the movie "Away We Go." While watching this artful Sam Mendes film, away I went falling in love once again with singer/songwriter Alexi Murdoch. Three soundtrack tunes I couldn't resist buying: "All My Days," "Blue Mind" and "Breathe." Also, in the wake of Michael Jackson's memorial, I decided to find out what might be missing from my already lengthy King of Pop iTunes collection. One"essential" song I didn't have was "Keep It in the Closet." Now I have it, and like my other MJ tracks, this one will rock with me at home, in the car and on foot for years to come.

Reading Abuzz

Our book club has its nose in "Little Bee" by Chris Cleave. This beautifully written novel has received wide acclaim from many important audiences, including the reviewer at The New York Times. Once I started wading into this fictitious oeuvre, I was sunk and consequently consecrated every spare moment of several days to its pages. Even though you aren't supposed to judge a book by its looks, I firmly believe that this book's cover - with its mix of nostalgic fonts, swirls and black, white and orange palette - is worthy of the tale that resides within, and it's just plain pretty.

Happy Observation

2009-07-05T17:16:00.022-07:00

Nearly every catalog of childhood memories includes an afternoon or two spent staring at the sky scouting clouds for familiar shapes like trains and tugboats, horses and hounds. In the moment, the experience stokes our imaginations; and in the years to come, the memory of that experience -- often made in the company of siblings and parents -- warms our hearts. A similar sense of whimsical wonder and delight washed over me when I opened an e-mail from my business partner Juliana featuring the artwork of Vladimir Kush.

As I scrolled through Kush's collection, the corners of my mouth curled up and I felt happy. The Russian-born artist's canvases marry childlike perspective and advanced technical skill, and the plain-to-see detail and dimension are counterbalanced nicely by lightness and inspiration. Although the compositions are full-fledged fantasy, they somehow make perfect sense to me: Jesus, the light of the world, depicted as a sunflower in "The Last Supper"; gladiolas as sails in "Arrival of a Ship"; and melon-colored roses as a strawberry-blond coiffure embellished by a daisy in "Daisy Games." Oh, and one of my other favorites: A tree stump serving as a record player and the beak of a bird as the needle in "Music in the Woods."

As adults, we seldom take time to lie on the lawn and comb the sky for everyday objects. But it takes only a moment at your computer to take in Kush's collection for an analogous effect. Warning: Your imagination will be stirred, the corners of your mouth may curl, and happiness is a real possibility. ~ A.F.

Reading as a Rudder

2009-06-28T17:53:00.012-07:00

Like the creation of inspired pavement, an inspired life is something constructed slowly and steadily over time. An inspired life is far from instantaneous; it takes dedication - not so much to a destination but to the direction you want to go (or perhaps the direction in which you're being pulled). Your direction will vary depending on your person and your business.

Good reading is a great rudder for whatever direction your moving, regardless of your speed. A good read for those heading due sustainable? This article on SustainLane.com, which offers 10 ways to weed out bad-for-the-the-planet products and practices. It's a good refresher with some new thoughts mixed in, as well as worthy comments from the Web audience. ~ A.F.

Pavement Inspired

2009-06-26T23:24:00.006-07:00

I received an email containing a Power Point presentation called "Calçada Portuguesa" (Portuguese Pavement) and I was so inspired by it that I decided to share some images with you.

This old paving technique can be found all over Portugal and its colonies, such as Brazil and Macau. Each stone is laid by craftsmen who spend long hours in a prostrated position for very low wages.

The pavements are not the most practical surfaces to walk on. They are uneven and get very slippery when wet. However, their intricate designs are amazing and some are being preserved for history. ~ J.S.

Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ponta Delgada Açores, Portugal

Pavement near Praça do Chiado, Lisboa

The Atlantic Pavillion in Lisbon and the flags of the world

Image of Saint Elizabeth of Portugal, Coimbra

Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Sources and photos from here and here.

ART: Driving My Eyes Up the Wall

2009-06-05T22:01:00.005-07:00

Tonight a friend and I visited a young Phoenix treasure called Tuck Shop. Located on the southeast slice of a rare roundabout on 12th and Oak, the eatery isn't long on the Valley roster (it opened in 2008) but it sure isn't short on attributes - what with a welcoming staff, a compelling menu and an architecturally handsome dining space. The art of Tucsonan Gavin Troy provides a perfect accessory - so perfect it'll distract you from deciding on a mouthwatering starter or selecting a delicious detour wine or ale.

Troy's works on wood and canvas merge color, line and shape in a moving fashion - so much so that I have a hunch I'll be moved to open my wallet for one in the coming weeks. And who am I kidding? Tuck Shop's tasty food is reason enough for a return trip. One must eat, after all, and with eyes that are bigger than my stomach, why not also purchase something my eyes can feast on each and every day? Long live art.

The Art of Junk

2009-06-04T08:58:00.005-07:00

Using trash and a light source, Tim Noble and Sue Webster were able to create sharp delineated silhouettes cast on a wall. The silhouettes of two people are self-portraits of themselves.

Tim and Sue live and work together in Shoreditch, East London. Their work was included in the exhibition Apocalypse: Beauty and Horror in Contemporary Art at the Royal Academy in 2000, as well as the opening show or the Saatchi Gallery in County Hall. ~ J.S.

Beauty and Brain

2009-05-25T08:57:00.007-07:00

Jill Bolte Taylor sheds light on the beautiful power of the brain from the three-fold perspective of a human, brain scientist and stroke victim. For years, Taylor studied the brain from the outside in, seeking to better understand the roots and implications of disorders such as schizophrenia. Then, at the age of 37, Taylor experienced a stroke - during which she had the rare opportunity to study a brain disorder from the inside out. It took her eight years to recover. Check out a portion of her captivating lecture here. Spending time in the right brain and seizing the now, she believes, helps propagate and sustain peace in our communities and our world.

The Sound of (New) Music

2009-05-17T09:17:00.019-07:00

If your eyes are wide and ears are open, you'll find inspiration in places expected and less predictable. Today I'm inspired by the feel-good sound of (new) music.

On Saturday afternoon, Mat Kearney's latest album landed in my mailbox. Glee! Rather than waiting to buy it on iTunes on May 19, I pre-ordered the disc a month ago through his Web site and found myself eagerly anticipating its arrival.

Kearney whet fans' appetites for his new work during his 2007 tour, introducing them a song called "City of Black and White." Since hearing that song in Kearney's encore playlist in Austin, I've listened to that track on YouTube countless times. That song has become the title track of his new album, and I am tickled that I can now fill my living room, car and iPod with that song and the 11 others residing on this disc.

In my view, a quality album gets inside you ~ inspiring you as you walk, work, cook, clean and create. For me, Kearney's new CD, like his previous ones, does this through its faith-filled poetry and graceful melodies. This artist's work resonates with me, both as a fan of good music and a follower of Christ. But even if you don't buy into Jesus, the album is worth buying -- for the inspiration, y'all. ~ A.F.

Water Down Your Consumption

2009-04-23T23:02:00.004-07:00

Water makes up a majority of the body and the earth's surface, and yet as dire as it is to health, this seemingly abundant resource isn't so abundant.

Due to the deluge of green reading that resulted from 2009 Earth Day hoopla, I've been thinking more about how the "reduce, reuse and recycle" mantra applies to water. While it can be trickier to reuse and recycle water, everyone can at least find ways to "water down" their consumption factor.

The first step involves taking a couple moments to find out just how much you are consuming. (Knowing is half the battle, said G.I. Joe.) You can calculate your water footprint by visiting this nifty site: http://www.h2oconserve.org/. This online outpost also offers some helpful hints for repairing the leaks in your day-to-day water routines.

Everyone can make a difference, be it one low-flow flush or one drip-free faucet at a time. Next up for me? A new toilet and shower head. Neither is a sexy investment, but both are safe and worthwhile, especially in this economy. ~ A.F.

(Photo found in National Geographic's photography wallpaper gallery: photography.nationalgeographic.com/photography/photos/patterns-water/rushing-water-photography.html)

Earth Day FEASTival 2009: A small start with big potential

2009-04-19T20:47:00.013-07:00

Yesterday we debuted our goods in Gilbert at Arizona State University's polytechnic campus, putting up a tent for the inaugural Earth Day FEASTival. The well-organized though modestly attended gathering brought together environmentally-sensitive vendors, many of whom were food-related (thus, putting the 'feast' in feastival). The event, though fairly humble, went really well, and showed great promise for the future.

Though we weren't able to sell anything (it was an expo this year, though next year it will be a marketplace), simply attending proved to be a useful endeavor for us, stoking the fire we have for our business. Furthermore, the feedback we received from attendees was encouraging, and our interactions with those who visited our booth provided welcome opportunities for finessing how we communicate who we are and what it is we do.

In addition to those worthy takeaways, we learned about a few other great businesses making their way in their own eco-minded niches. Check 'em out.

Go Go Natural: This online storefront specializes in natural products for moms and wee ones, carrying a myriad of goods such as super-stylish cloth diapers (photo shown) and hooter hiders (tee hee). Check out the sweet, earthy offerings at www.gogonatural.com.

udderdelights: As temperatures soar, I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream cakes, ice cream shakes and ice cream cones. This Gilbert, Ariz. outpost serves up local, fresh and gourmet treats for those seeking to sate their sweet tooth with something summer-appropriate. Learn more at www.udderdelightsaz.com.

Green Safe: This Michigan-based company sells corn-based plastic-like goods such as food/take-out containers and silverware. The products are particularly apropos for restaurants and caterers that require disposable supplies yet desire to lessen their impact. Get the low-down at www.michigangreensafeproducts.com.

the ecosaurus blog

Wishing for Peace on Earth

Where are the bees?

The grass isn't always greener... In fact, it isn't green at all...

Saving Valentina

Many Hands Blankies

Have you heard of Vanicream?

Organics on the runway!

Papier mache animal heads

Merry Christmas to all!

Eco-friendly yarn

Recommended Read: Which is greener: a fake or real Christmas tree?

Effortless Thanksgiving Table Setting

Marni's Charitable Totes

The perfect bike for small spaces

One product, many uses: 2. Transform a tea tin

One Product, Many Uses: 1. Reuse gift wrap to dress up a drab drawer

Curitiba "The Ecological Capital of Brazil"

HAPPY FALL...AND HOLIDAYS! Ecosaurus has launched its year-end sale!

Mark your calendars! Local First Arizona's Fall Festival is around the bend

One Product, Many Uses: Intro to an Eco-Friendly Blog Series

To be inspired or not to be inspired - there's no question!

Gazelle: Beautiful creature, nimble recycling service

You Can Get With This...

Consumers prefer eco-friendly hotels

BIG BANG BIG BOOM

Buy now, save big: 2-for-1 sale on Ecosaurus recycled gift wrap

Summer Veggie Dish: Quick, Tasty and Low-Cal

The Lazy Environmentalist

Summer offers windows for snail mail, crafts

Sip and "C": O.J.-based power drinks for summer

it's time to thredUP

Sentimental Sundays: Ansel Adams reminds us that art, beauty surround us

America's got talent, but Nature's got more

Sentimental Sundays: A bottle of nostalgia with a side of BBQ

Love for giant pandas and a lesson in a happy marriage

Get your survey on

Mail Matters: A Red-Letter Rant from CBS's Andy Rooney

Giving a knit about the planet

Telling fear to take a hike

Green cards, coffee brown...

The color purple, c'est cool!

Sentimental Sundays: The experience takes the cake

Sentimental Sundays: Crazy for Crazy Heart

It's Friday, so why not take your bulldog snowboarding?

Where the rain goes

Sentimental Sundays: A soapbox on sweet-smellin' soaps!

Sentimental Sundays: Revisiting "Punch-Drunk Love" is sweet, sobering and strange

Kitchen Couture: Feast your eyes on delicious designer aprons

Irresistible + random: How K-9’s Find Suspects

Forget dry wall. Some use PET bottles and mud.

Consumer Reports Cars Blog: How to stop a runaway car: Five steps that can save your life

Sentimental Sundays: Get Carried Away

Designs You'll Want to Go to Bed With

Moisturizing in the Desert: Say no to snake skin!

Sentimental Sundays: My Funny Valentine

Sentimental Sundays: You can call me Tweety, Squishy or Cupcake...

"Pink is my fav-o-rite crayon" ~ Aerosmith

Sentimental Sundays: What's love got to do, got to do with it?

Breathe. Celebrate. Inspire. And put recycled magic in someone's mailbox.

Sentimental Sunday: A Weekly Series Devoted to Outpourings of Affection

The Art of Searches Leads to the Art of Letter Writing, Manliness

Famous painters visiting Rio

Sir Henry Cole: Commissioner of the first Christmas card

All for relaxation, and relaxation for all: Volume IV

All for funk, and funk for all: Volume III

Subway Art

Cool Buy: Scrappy, sustainable and sensational scarves

All for Oneness, and Oneness for All: Volume II

One for all, all for one: Volume 1

Green lanterns (and other super colors, too)!

Homemade gifts back in style ~ good for the budget, soul and sweet tooth

Go Green Tube - Broadcast Planet Earth - Ecosaurus

La Vida Local

Go loco for local!

Bitten by and smitten with the green bug

"Holiday... Celebrate..."

Wrap Star: Ecosaurus Recycled Gift Wrap

Sleep tight and sweet dreams!

America's water supply needs an Erin Brockovich