Holiday

You are currently browsing the archive for the Holiday category.

Get Ready for the Greenest Holiday Ever!

November 29, 2009 in Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | No comments

No matter what winter holidays you celebrate it’s easy to green them up. Before we kick off the 2009 winter holiday season this December I thought we’d look back at some of the best green home holiday tips from last year. Then stay tuned for brand new holiday tips over the next couple of weeks.

greenest holiday ever

GREEN HOLIDAY BASICS

TREATS & GIFTS!

SPICE UP YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

PLAN AHEAD

Also as you start thinking about the new year consider a Ban on Paper Calendars.

Greener and Less Expensive Christmas Gifts Under the Tree

November 28, 2009 in Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | 1 comment

According to the Seattle Times, “A fifth of U.S. consumers plan to buy more environmentally safe gifts this holiday season.” That’s about as many green shoppers as last year, although Seattle locals were a little more green with about 24% of consumers noting that eco-friendly gifts are on their list this year AND astoundingly 55% of Seattle respondents say they’ll pay more for greener gifts.

Luckily, although most people think green gifts cost more, they don’t have to. You can find greener holiday gifts for about the same price, sometimes even less than conventional gifts. Since December is right around the corner, below are some green gift ideas to get you started. None will break the bank but all will please the eco-conscious folks on your list.

Are greener gifts on your list this holiday season?

Be a savvy organic food shopper

November 20, 2009 in Food & Drink, Holiday, Organics by Jennifer | No comments

Organic foods are a big part of keeping it green. Organics keep pesticides out of our air, water and soil, and more importantly keep harmful chemicals out of your body and your family’s body. However, not all organics are the same, keep check on the following tips to get the most bang for your organic buck.

buy the best organic food

Look for the USDA seal. The USDA organic seal is not foolproof, but right now it’s the best guarantee you’ve got that your food is actually organic. The Certified Organic label is regulated by the USDA and all foods wearing this label must be grown without chemicals, synthetic fertilizers, hormones, and other genetically altered baddies. If a food item says stuff like “natural”, “from nature”, “chemical free” or anything else, it could be sure, but right now those labels technically mean nothing. Why shop for possible fake organics? Learn more about food labels.

Look for the code. Those little stickers affixed to fruits and veggies do actually mean something. At my store the conventional pears do sometimes roll into the organic bin, so if you want real organics look for the sticker. Real organics have a little sticker that carry a five digit code that starts with the number nine.

Look for essentials. You can buy organic cookies, cakes, chips, and other prepackaged foods, but since organic is more costly, why not spend the money on foods closer to the earth. Whole fruits and veggies, bread, milk, and so fourth vs. all the little extras.

Look for the big bads. There are some foods that are safer than others in conventional form. Personally, I think that as much organic as you can afford is a good idea, because organics are about more than personal health. It’s also about chemicals and pesticides in the atmosphere – it’s about keeping growers healthy – and it’s about showing the government that you do want your dollars going toward organics. BUT if you have to make a choice you should know that some organic foods are far more important than others.

If you’re looking for tips about how to save money on organic food for the holidays check out the Celebrate Green podcast on exploring organics for the holidays – I was a guest on the Celebrate Green radio show, and that’s just what we talked about.

Ten easy ways to green Christmas

November 19, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Christmas is one of those holidays that’s actually pretty darn easy to green up. Simple choices can lead to a green Christmas and a more meaningful holiday celebration. Following are some ideas…

green your christmas

1. Green your Christmas tree: There are so many choices when it comes to the tree that it can seem hard not simple, but it all comes down to a few bits of info…

  • Reusable plastic tree = not so green.
  • Cut trees from a conventional farm = ok, but still not too green.
  • Cut tree from an organic farm = greener.
  • A living tree = green!
  • Alternatives like a wreath, small tree, plant, or other recyclable option = green.

To get an in-depth look read the most eco-friendly Christmas tree.

2. Green your lights: No matter where you like to place holiday lights, LEDS save you energy and look beautiful as well.

3. Green your wrap: Reuse last year’s Christmas wrap; use the comics; use a reusable container; use wrap made with recycled paper.

4. Green your greetings: Don’t send cards this year, call your loved ones instead or send an e-card. Make cards with recycled craft supplies. IF you really want to send a paper card, send one made of tree-free paper, plantable paper, or choose from the many recycled Christmas card options available.

5. Green your holiday baking: Use organic ingredients and eco-safe bake ware. No time to bake? Find the most Amazing Organic Holiday Cookies.

6. Green your shopping: Don’t shop like mad. Make a small list of meaningful gifts you’d like to get and stick to it. OR make crafty homemade holiday gifts. You can also give many gifts that actually give back.

7. Green the toys: If you’ve got kids, Christmas toys are likely on your list. Make sure you get safe, lead-free, non-toxic toys this year.

8. Green your Christmas stocking: This year use an eco-friendly Christmas stocking AND stuff it with safe fun green treats.

9. Green your holiday supplies: Plan on using goods for the holidays that are made with recycled materials or that can easily be recycled. You’d be surprised at how many options there are for a nice recyclable holiday season.

10. Green your Christmas mindset: The biggest challenge surrounding getting green for Christmas is simply wrapping your mind around a new way to celebrate. Read I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas and/or Celebrate Green for ideas about how you can celebrate in a fun way while keeping it green and meaningful.

How are you greening your Christmas this year?

Eco-Friendly Christmas Stockings

November 11, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | 4 comments

It’s never too soon to start thinking about a green Christmas. Once fall hits Christmas can sneak up on you quickly and the more prepared you are the less stressful the holidays will be. Also, if you need special gear, like stockings, it’s good to have a chance to look around. It’s not easy to just walk into any store and find eco-friendly stocking options.

Following are some great choices for eco-friendly Christmas stockings:

Use what you’ve got: If you’ve been using the same old stockings for years, that’s actually a very nice tradition. You don’t need to buy new each year. I used the same stocking from the time I was born until my teens – my mom made it. Using family stockings is one of the best ways to keep it green.

Make your own: It’s easy to find a free stocking pattern online. Then simply use an eco-friendly fabric like organic cotton, felt, or bamboo to make it. See more cute DIY stocking ideas.

Buy one: If you’re buying an eco-friendly stocking it can pay to check out local crafty Fair Trade or eco shops. If you can’t find one locally there are some good options online.

eco-friendly holiday stockings

  1. ChunkiChilli Christmas stockings hand-knitted and hand embroidered in pure merino wool. MANY pretty styles to choose from.
  2. Adorable Recycled Sweater Personalized Christmas Stockings!
  3. Beautiful wool felt stockings hand made in Hungary by a womens’ cooperative that uses traditional appliqué techniques from Hable Construction – so many cool colors and designs to choose from too.
  4. Eco-friendly felt stockings from rikrak – lots of color and design choices.
  5. Amenity holiday stockings made with 55% hemp 45% certified organic cotton, and printed with non-toxic, water-based dyes.

Organic Thanksgiving Beverages

November 9, 2009 in Food & Drink, Holiday, Organics by Jennifer | No comments

When planning your green Thanksgiving menu, don’t forget about the drinks! It’s easy to keep it green nowadays because there’s a wide array of yummy organic beverages, perfectly suited to Thanksgiving. Here are some ideas.

Organic wine: Many companies offer great organic wines nowadays, and for less money then you might think. Some choices include…

Organic sparkles: Santa Cruz Organics TeaZer sparking teas – I LOVE these sparkling teas and so does my eight year old. They’re made with organic juice and Fair Trade tea and are a fun switch from the typical sparkling cider.

Organic apple: Organic apple juice or organic apple cider is a must have. Adults can even make their own organic hard cider.

Organic fizz: If you must have soda on Thanksgiving, make it organic soda.

Organic beer: Your best bet for organic brew is local. Read Green America’s guide to greener brew.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Menu

November 9, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | 2 comments

We recently looked at why you should go vegetarian more often – meat = bad eco-footprint. Thanksgiving is actually a really easy meal to go vegetarian with and that means a super green Thanksgiving. Families tend to serve more veggie dishes on Thanksgiving already so losing the turkey is the big challenge. But you can do it. If you’re considering a vegetarian or even vegan Thanksgiving below are some helpful links…

Is this your idea of a veggie Thanksgiving? Think again!

Is this your idea of a veggie Thanksgiving? Think again!

Extras:

Organic Halloween Treats!

October 13, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Today, with Halloween fast approaching, I figured we’d take a look at some nice organic treats. Some you can make, and some you can easily purchase. All of them super yummy – even kid approved.

Beautiful fall colored organic cookies from the all organic Beautiful Sweets! Yum.

What appears to be a very cool Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe from Earthbound Farms. Oddly they didn’t list all organic ingredients, but you can mix that up :)

Make homemade Halloween Popcorn Balls! Just be sure to use organic ingredients.

Organic Trick or Treat Candy Mix

55% Dark Chocolate Bites – Organic & Fair-Trade

Organic Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe – totally awesome!

Halloween Pumpkin Smoothie… This is a cool (no pun intended) recipe that I’ve had forever. I found it at  Fitness Magazine and mixed it up some to make an organic version.

  • 1 cup organic canned pumpkin
  • 1 cup organic milk (you can use soy, or another milk as well, it works fine)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/3 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2/3 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup ice
  • Whipped cream, cinnamon, or shaved Fair Trade chocolate for toppings (optional)

To make:

Blend everything except the ice until smooth. Add ice. Blend more, until thick and creamy. Garnish with your choice of toppings.

Eco-dinner party place cards and invitations

October 12, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

With the holidays coming up fast you may be planning a dinner party or two. Two considerations for larger events include invitations and place cards. The good news is that you can go green with both.

Twisted Limb Paperworks is a carbon-neutral production art studio and your one-stop-shop for all your green paper needs if you’re throwing down. You can pick up some awesome round handmade recycled paper (see above) with invitation printed on vellum overlay (or 100% recycled cardstock if you prefer) and attached with a hole punch and brad. A 100% recycled reply postcard and matching 5 ½ inch square envelope are included, available in frost or sand.

Read the rest of this entry »

Green 4th of July Planning Guide

June 26, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

If you celebrate 4th of July, and you’re here at this blog, there’s a good chance you’d like your celebration to be green. The 4th is a tough one because the mainstay of this holiday, fireworks, have yet to be made eco-friendly, at least not to the general public. Some movies and major events do use a more eco-friendly firework method, but that’s not going to help you at home.

If you want to tackle the firework issue, talk to city officials about shortening the display, which cuts down on some of the air pollution created. You can also skip the home fireworks. Sparklers, poppers, and other home fireworks are not only NOT made green, but come in loads of packaging. You’re better off not lighting any at home.

Fireworks aside, you can green up the holiday in other ways. Here’s how…

Green your barbecue. We’ve already seen many tips about this here before. Read up on the topic at the following posts:

Use eco-friendly bug spray to ward off nighttime critters. In the early evening, while you’re sitting there watching the fireworks, bugs can attack. Be prepared with some safer, non-toxic bug repellent.

Green your drinks. Water in reusable bottles, real cups at picnics, organic juices, and even organic beer are all ways to drink a little greener on the 4th.

Clean up! The 4th of July creates a trash situation unlike any other. The day after the holiday volunteer to help clean up the community. Pick up wrappers, junk, and water bottles (that the less eco-savvy people left behind), and make sure your community looks like it did before the 4th arrived.

Throw a green summer picnic

June 19, 2009 in Holiday, Outdoor Living by Jennifer | 2 comments

With the 4th of July coming up, and summer already in full swing, you may be thinking picnic! There are some easy steps you can take to green any picnic event.

Start with some green grilling:

  • Make sure you’re grilling as green as you can on an eco-friendly barbecue.
  • Grill veggies over meat (I know crazy) but vegetarian dishes are far more eco-friendly. At the very least cut out half the meat. Grilled corn, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and more are just as tasty, better for the earth, and better for your health.
  • Put that fire out. It’s really not earth-friendly to burn down the forest, or even your backyard.

Pack an eco-friendly picnic basket. Make sure you pack non-disposable dishes, cloth napkins, and real silverware. If you must go with disposables at least snag some biodegradable disposable dishes.

Carpool to the picnic area if a lot of folks are going.

Take eco-friendly picnic activities along for the kiddos (and you). You can grab an earth-friendly Frisbee or a kid friendly outdoor eco-toy.

Block the sun with eco friendly sunglasses, non-toxic safe bug spray and healthy natural sunscreen.

Don’t feed the animals – it can cause more problems than you think.

If there’s a lake take along some eco-friendly swimwear.

If you need to mark the picnic spot, say for a family reunion picnic, don’t use balloons which can be set free and harm animals out in nature. Use paper streamers or brightly colored cloth. Be sure to take these items with you when you leave.

Are you planing a green picnic soon? Are you doing anything else (besides what’s noted above) to keep it green.

Last Minute Green Father’s Day Gifts

June 17, 2009 in Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | 1 comment

If you’ve got a green papa, and no gift for Father’s Day yet, you’re behind schedule. You’ve still got a few days to round something cool up though (although that means if you order online – order today!). Here are some green gifts that any green dad will enjoy…

Hemp Gardening Apron – for an organic gardening dad, made with sustainable hemp this apron is guy friendly, durable, and full of pockets.

Green Home Improvement: 65 Projects That Will Cut Utility Bills, Protect Your Health & Help the the Environment by Daniel D. Chiras or The Carbon-Free Home: 36 Remodeling Projects to Help Kick the Fossil -Fuel Habit by Stephen & Rebekah Hren – both will help a green dad to make smart home improvement decisions and both offer project ideas.

Black & Decker Thermal Leak Detector – awesome gift for an energy conscious dad who also likes to play detective. This handy detector helps to reduce energy costs by finding energy leaks in your home. You can instantly identify problem areas around drafty windows and doors, and uncover hidden leaks and insulation “soft spots” around electrical outlets, recessed lights, and along floor molding.

Give dad the gift of organic brew – your dad can learn to make his own homemade organic beer with the help of Seven Bridges Cooperative, a full on organic brewing company with everything you need to home brew organic beer. If your dad is new on the scene, the Starter Kits for Beginners are a good place to start.

MORE IDEAS!

If you want to look outside the home and go with a gift that’s less handy and more fun check out the HIP FATHER’S DAY GREEN GIFT GUIDE, grab something green and cool for his car, or take a look at Ten Random Green Father’s Day Gifts.

6 Tips to Green your Mother’s Day

May 5, 2009 in Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | No comments

I usually don’t sway from house related green speak here, but with Mother’s Day in just five days (yes, that’s the 10th folks) I thought we should take a look at some eco Mother’s Day tips. Your mother is in your house from time to time, so we’ll pretend this is home related!

1. Send your love with organic flowers. Conventional flowers, as we’ve heard time and time again are full of pesticides and are harmful for the growers. You really don’t want to send your love with chemicals – do you? Try a great organic arrangement from Organic Boutique. Four arrangements I’d love (yup, I’m a mama) include the ones shown above…

2. Skip the greeting card: Mother’s Day is the third most popular holiday for sending cards. In fact, about 150 million Mother’s Day cards are sent out each year. That, my friends, is a whole lot of trees. Try a tree-free card, a homemade card made with recycled materials, or a digital greeting card.

3. Try something crazy unique: Recycled Newspaper Roses for Mother’s Day.

4. Try a gift of time: Take your mama to dinner or lunch. Clean her house, plant her a garden, or just make a goal of spending more time with her during the upcoming year. That’s what she really wants anyhow.

5. If you do go with a gift make it eco-friendly: See some great earth-friendly Mother’s Day gifts. Need another great guide – Mother’s Day Green Gift Guide.

6. Look for eco-friendly jewels: Jewelry is one gift that runs rampant during the Mother’s Day season. BUT jewelry is extremely bad for the planet. Jewels and metals are mined which erodes the earth and human lives are sacrificed for diamonds and other jewelry creation. Lame right. Your mama does not want that on her conscious. Luckily, there are plenty of places to score eco-friendly, Fair Trade jewelry.

How are you greening this Mother’s Day?

Eco-friendly Mother’s Day gifts for the home

April 27, 2009 in Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | 2 comments

When it comes to Mother’s Day, some eco-bling is always appreciated, but so are cool home items. Especially if the mama you’re shopping for is trying to create a green and healthy home atmosphere. That said, you should never go too boring with Mother’s Day gifts (NOTE: mamas don’t want an energy efficient blender). Something fun, beautiful, or unique is called for here.

How about…

Shoji Lantern – SO beautiful and made with pressed leaves from the Hong Kong orchid tree, along with handcrafted mulberry paper stretched on frames of recycled pine wood and sustainable acacia wood. These are lovely and glowing, and can be used on a table or as wall sconces.
Read the rest of this entry »

Happy Arbor Day!

April 24, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

I know Earth Day just happened and you may be tired of everyone saying – get out there and plant a tree, but I’m going to say it again because today is Arbor Day. Arbor Day has been around quite a bit longer than Earth Day, having started in 1872, but it doesn’t seem to get as much attention as Earth day, which is sad in my opinion, because it’s always nice to celebrate trees.

The last Friday in April is the U.S. official Arbor Day, but many states hold their own celebration dates and international mixes it up too. Really though, any day is a good day to celebrate Arbor Day, because as we all know, trees rock. Any of the activities below can be done at any old time you choose.

You can plant a tree – always fun and beneficial for the planet and human health too. Or you can try something else.

The Arbor Day Foundation has many great ideas including activities like…

  • Hold an Arbor Day concert.
  • Take a hike in a forest; take a long a good guide book and try to name some trees.
  • Dedicate a forest.
  • Hold a block party where everyone celebrates and plants neighborhood trees.
  • Teach a little one about the benefits of trees.
  • Gather up some great books about trees.
  • Volunteer with a local tree-planting organization.

If you’ve got kids, try an Arbor Day minded craft!

What are you doing for Arbor Day? Have you planted or celebrated any trees lately?

Love the Earth this Valentine’s Day – 15 Easy Green Living Ideas

February 14, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

It’s all good and fine to give organic flowers and Fair Trade chocolates, but if you really want to make an impact, choose some green minded goals this Valentine’s Day and follow through.

Here are 20 EASY green ideas you can commit to that will make the earth happy this Valentine’s Day…

  1. Have sweeter, less toxic dreams by choosing organic beds and bedding.
  2. Create a dedicated home recycling area.
  3. Salt Your Oven
  4. Take a three minute quiz to save water and support a great cause.
  5. Learn to enjoy earthworms.
  6. Quit cleaning with bleach already!
  7. Before you next go shopping ask yourself some green shopping questions.
  8. Choose earth friendly beverages.
  9. Green your toilet paper.
  10. If it’s time for a new phone, recycle your old cell phone.
  11. No yard space? Get a cool Urban Kitchen Compost Bin.
  12. Cancel all that junk mail.
  13. Get your kiddos involved with all of the above green ideas.
  14. Wash Less Laundry.
  15. Boil some cinnamon – ummm, spicy house.

Do you have any green plans this Valentine’s Day?

Green Valentine’s Sweets, Treats, and Eco-Flowers

February 2, 2009 in Holiday, Organics by Jennifer | No comments

Looking for a nice assortment of sweets, treats, and flowers that offer traditional Valentine’s Day flavor, but also allow you to keep your green ethics in tact? You’re in luck because I’ve got a ton of goodies for you…

Ooo la la, organic flowers…

  1. Endless Love Tulips
  2. Lavender Lovers Gift Box
  3. Red and Pink Anemone
  4. Shades of Love Rose Bouquet
  5. Everlasting Love Wreath

Treats! Read the rest of this entry »

Last Minute Eco-Valentine’s Gifts for Green Friends

February 2, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | 1 comment

We’re coming up at the end of shipping dates for Valentine’s Day – so today we better see some gifts. We’ll look at some home-minded items, being that this is a home-minded blog. The first gift idea above are charming Recycled Tin Words – actually say I love you all year round with this pretty mismatched recycled tin wall decor.

The above gift – the Green Box is not very hearts and pink but it is very earth-lovin’ which makes it the perfect Valentine for someone looking to live green. The Green Box comes with:

  • Bamboo Cutting Board
  • The Green Book
  • Reusable Travel Mug
  • Energy Saving Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb
  • Envirosax Reusable Bag
  • Sun and Earth All Natural Liquid Hand Soap
  • Bamboo Box

A great green starter kit.

Or maybe you want something more traditional Valentine… Read the rest of this entry »

Green Valentine’s Day Decor Ideas

January 19, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments


Yesterday we looked at Green Home Ideas for Valentine’s Day today we’re going to see some specifics…

If you’re having a party, if you have kids, or if the thought of fun cupid style decor simply appeals to you, take a look at these green Valentine’s Day decor ideas:

Heart Garland (shown above) – very nice heart garlands made from eco-friendly felt.

Read the rest of this entry »

Green Valentine’s Day Tips – Green Home Ideas for Valentine’s Day

January 19, 2009 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Sweetheart Rose Bouquet from Organic Bouquet

There are so many ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day that are not only fun, but clean and green. Ok, maybe not so clean (melty organic chocolates) but definitely green.

  • Two words: organic flowers! With so many lovely organic flower choices nowadays, it’s seriously a crime to buy conventional. Organic flowers are grown under safer conditions for both humans and the planet, and don’t have icky chemicals. All you want to smell is that lovely rose scent.
  • Make your own Valentine’s Day cards out of recycled materials you have laying around the house. Collage cards are especially cool (and vintage looking) and allow you to use up bits and pieces of stuff. If you must go with new Valentine’s Day cards, choose cards made with recycled and eco-friendly materials.
  • When choosing decor, pick items that are sustainable and recyclable. Such as recycled paper decor or wool decor. Soon, in an upcoming post, I’ll bring in some specific decor ideas (I’ve got some cute ones!).
  • For your party use real dishes and cloth napkins. It’s gentler on the earth than disposables. If you go the disposable route choose recycled or sustainable materials made with soy inks and non-toxic coatings. Two good choices include, Amy Butler tableware or Bambu.
  • Look for organic and fair trade Valentine’s Day goodies. Chocolates, lollies, cupcakes, cookies, punch, wine, and more are all available in nice earth-friendly versions. Later we’ll look at some good specific options.
  • If you’re looking to spread some romance (more than fun) light candles, just make sure they’re organic soy or beeswax.

More Valentine’s Day green tips to come…

Now tell me, how do you plan to spend the big day?

Got Gift Cards? Organics You Can Score at Macy’s

December 26, 2008 in Green Your Home, Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Here’s the problem. Often for the holidays, you get gift cards, and if you’re trying to live green, it can be hard to find eco-friendly products at the shop your gift card is for. Macy’s is one example. I know some folks who got Macy’s gift cards this Christmas. Because Macy’s is not a dedicated “green” shop you might think your chances of scoring a green product are slim to none. Not true.

I rounded up some cool green-minded products from Macy’s to share, and after the jump, I’ve got some tips for grabbing green products at just about any store.
Read the rest of this entry »

Merry Christmas!

December 25, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Wishing everyone a very merry, safe, and relaxing Christmas day! Have fun, get out into nature for a bit, and recycle all your wrap. Just don’t work too hard.

What Are Your Green Goals for 2009?

December 24, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

With New Year’s almost here, it’s likely you’re starting to think about your goals. Do you have some green household goals that you’d like to work on in the upcoming year? If you’re looking for ideas, here are some good ones:

Go green in 2009 by…

Ditching toxic household cleaners and chemical based home air fresheners.

Improving the air quality in your home.

Green your kitchen java for the entire year! Coffee is a great place to start if you’re looking to go green your lifestyle.

Drinking tap water, or at the very least buying a water filter over bottled water.

Starting a compost routine.

Only buying sustainable home furniture and decor.

Giving your baby a fresh green start in life.

Pledging to reduce, reuse, and recycle more at home.

Planting some trees around your house or in your neighborhood.

Taking shorter showers.

Conserving electricity around the house.

Do you have another green home goal? One I didn’t mention? Leave a comment about your green goals for 2009.

Oh, by the way, my green goals are as follows:

1) Recycle all the toilet paper tubes – this was actually my goal last year. I’m great at recycling everything but the tubes still sometimes end up in the bathroom trash vs. the recycling. I’ve improved since last year, but this is an ongoing goal.

2) Cook more. This last year was nuts (seriously) I bought more packaged foods than maybe ever in my entire life. That’s not great eco cooking. It’s much better to buy less packaging, and cook closer to the earth meals.

Last Minute Eco-Friendly Christmas Centerpiece

December 23, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

It’s getting down to the holiday wire. Here in Oregon, most of us have lost power at some point over the last week, and almost everyone is stuck at home due to snow and ice. If you’re in this same situation, you can still whip up a nice Christmas centerpiece for your holiday table or mantle.

Here are some ideas for quick, eco-friendly, and beautiful Christmas centerpieces…

If you start today, you can have some beautiful Homemade Recycled Holiday Luminaries ready for Christmas, like the ones shown above – you’ll need some can freeze time, hence the start today goal. These are easy to make and look great. Read the rest of this entry »

Nine Last Minute Green Home Holiday Gifts Ideas

December 17, 2008 in Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | No comments

Everyone loves flowers during the holidays. I really like the Kindness Blooms Holiday Bouquet – Red tulips and Stars of Bethlehem, in a frosted recycled glass vase. Certified as sustainably grown. Plus right now you can save 10% on holiday flowers from $19.99.
Read the rest of this entry »

Three Quick Green Holiday Packing and Wrapping Tips

December 16, 2008 in Holiday, Organic Gardening by Jennifer | No comments

  1. Save all your old newspapers, magazines, and tissue paper, and send them through the shredder to make instant thin packing strips. If you have colorful strips, say from magazines, you can use them in holiday gift bags or baskets even.
  2. Skip gift tags and try simply jotting down who a gift is for on the package itself. You can also write on the gift’s bow or ribbon. Or use old gift tags (save them each year).
  3. Make a gift super reusable by packing it in a nice reusable bag or lunch sack. It’s a two for one gift!

For more green gift wrapping tips visit: Eco-Wrap Your Holiday Gifts

Have A Recycled Holiday Season

December 10, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

The holidays are the perfect time to put reuse to good use. Try the following…

Reuse holiday cards. Cut the fronts off and re-glue them to blank paper (recycled of course). Embellish as you like, and send.

Reuse holiday wrap. Each year save your holiday wrap for the next. You can also save holiday gift tags, bows, tissue paper, and packing materials for mailing gifts.

If you have to buy new wrapping paper, purchase recycled gift wrap.

Use oddball wrap. Wrap a gift in newspaper, old art projects, found vintage or thrift tins, a reusable bag, or an old box.

Use recycled table items for holiday parties and events.

Recycle holiday meal leftovers into your compost bin and turn it into great garden matter.

You can recycle your Christmas tree by buying a live tree, that you can then re-plant (not totally recycling, but you get the idea). You can even go extreme green, and decorate a tree outside instead of buying new.

Purchase recycled gifts and toys. All sorts of gifts can be bought used, and many companies make new items out of recycled goods. See gift ideas (many recycled) from Best Green Home Tips.

What other holiday reuse ideas can you come up with?

Save Money with Great Discount Codes for Green Gifts

December 9, 2008 in Holiday, Save Money by Jennifer | 1 comment

I found some nice discount codes for green gift items this month. I’ve posted them just about everywhere, but then thought, HEY, Best Green Home Tip readers might like these too.

Save on Dwell goodies:

Not all Dwell items are eco-friendly. Many are though, and this is a nice sale. Just check materials before buying if you’re looking for all perfectly green items.

Save on Night Owl Paper Goods items such as, eco-cards, reusable bags, sustainable calendars and more! (see items below code – click on the product image to learn more)

:: Night Owl Paper Goods Owliday Discount :: www.nightowlpapergoods.com

:: Receive 25% off ALL ORDERS now thru Dec. 31st! :: Coupon Code friend08

:: Share with friends! :: Use over & over!

Green Christmas Shopping – 3RLiving Exclusive Discount to Unplugged Living – 3R Living has the coolest green gear, and now, you can score it for less.

Easy, less expensive, green holiday shopping! Gotta love it.

Eco-Holiday Table Setting – Green Dishes for the Holidays

December 8, 2008 in Food & Drink, Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

We’ve been looking lately at setting your holiday table, using green techniques. So far we’ve seen;Set Your Perfect Eco Holiday Table – choosing a table and Linen Choices.

Today, let’s look at some eco-dishes and serving items that go on top of your table…


Clear Glass Wine Decanter and Set of 4 Goblets – lovely recycled glass decanter with 4 recycled goblets.


Oceana Wave Plate – Pearl (set of 4) or Oceana Square Plate – Pewter (set of 4) – great place settings in recycled seaglass. Perfect as a set for formal holiday meals.
Read the rest of this entry »

Tons of Green Holiday Links – Crafts, Food, Gifts, & More!

December 3, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

I pulled together this post I’ve been sharing at my green-minded blogs. And I thought readers here might enjoy it as well. This post is chock full of green holiday goodness – plenty to get your holiday season off to an eco-friendly start:

Green Treats & Recipes

Remember, no matter the treat or recipe, you can always green it up by exchanging organic and natural ingredients for conventional.

50 Cute and Tasty Christmas Cookie Ideas

Cherry Dot Cookies

Organic Holiday Cookies!

Hey It’s Sugar Cookie Day – worth it for the pretty snowy cookie image alone.

Bacon Nut Stuffing – don’t forget, pork is a high pesticide food item, so buy organic if you make this dish.

Top 10 Turkey Tools

Pumpkin Cheesecake – one of my personal favorite treats.

What Else Is In Your Beer? AND Vegan Beer & Wine – I know beer and wine do not make a meal, but hey, they are treats, and if you have a drink, you may as well get the best.

Homemade Eco-Holiday Crafts

Read the rest of this entry »

Make A Holiday Ice Wreath

December 2, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | 1 comment

Here in Oregon, it’s never too snowy. At least not where I am in Oregon. However, if you live somewhere super chilly, this beautiful ice wreath above is the perfect alternative to store-bought holiday outdoor decor. It’s completely recyclable, made of all natural materials, and so lovely. It would look great hanging on a gate, and a smaller one could even hang on your door.

BEST OF ALL: You will not believe how easy this is to make. Plus it’s way fun for kids.

Learn how to make Festive Ice Wreaths

[Image and tips via Junk Creation]

Deck Your Tree With Shades of Green

November 30, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

The other day we looked at how to choose the most eco-friendly Christmas tree. Today we’re going to start looking at how to deck it out in style (and in green).

Start with LED lights: Read the rest of this entry »

The Greenest Christmas Tree

November 28, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Now that Thanksgiving is officially over, you may be thinking about getting your Christmas tree. But which tree is the best green choice?

Your best bet – a living Christmas tree:

Living Christmas trees are great because you can celebrate with them, then plant them. Need help?

Go organic:

There are Organic Christmas tree farms now, and we all know that pesticide free is the best way to go, if you have the option.

Artificial Christmas trees vs. real Christmas trees…

When it comes to this battle, real trees almost always win. It seems fishy, I know, but cutting down a tree is more eco-friendly than an artificial tree. Why? Artificial trees are usually made from non-renewable plastics; some containing PVC. The toxins and other nasty chemicals used to create artificial trees make them a poor green decision. Also, real trees can be mulched and used in the garden or used for heat where as artificial trees cannot easily be recycled; in some cases, they can’t be recycled at all.

Have a tree-free holiday:

You can celebrate without a tree. There are plenty of ways to bring some pine fresh love into your home sans an entire tree. Consider wreaths made from gathered fallen forest branches, or a tabletop decor item made from swags of tree, pine cones, and berries. Your kids can even use recycled paper to create a fun pretend tree on the wall.

Coming up: I’ll be posting some eco-friendly Christmas tree decorating ideas – stay tuned!

Set Your Perfect Eco Holiday Table: Linen Choices

November 26, 2008 in Green Your Home, Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Hey folks. I took the day off for my birthday, got a little R&R, and now I’m back and raring to go. The other day we started looking at ways to Set Your Perfect Eco Holiday Table. We started with bare basics, a decent earth-friendly table. Today we’ll be looking at what goes right on top of said table.

Linen table items are best because they’re reusable, and of course last longer than paper products. Plus, they just look nicer. Some good linen fabric choices include hemp, organic cotton, and bamboo. Although, I’m more of the mindset that if you use linen over paper, paying extra for organic is cool, because you limit chemicals, but honestly, any linens are better than paper. Here are some good choices for the holidays:

Amenity Cove Organic Placemats via Velocity – I like the cocoa and silver above, but these come in a great gray and espresso color as well.
Read the rest of this entry »

Set Your Perfect Eco Holiday Table: Starting With the Table!

November 23, 2008 in Furniture & Appliances, Holiday by Jennifer | 1 comment

If you’re looking to set your perfect eco-holiday, I’ve got you covered. I’m going to be running a table series covering everything from eco-friendly dishes to cloth napkins, to flowers. Starting with…

The table.

Of course you’ll need a table to dress up. Being that I happen to be heavily addicted to ogling eco-furnishings I see an untold amount of tables. I have lots of favorites. I picked a nice variety to share here. Hopefully you’ll find something to love.

The Lapis: A table I’ve always loved; well, not since birth, so always is inaccurate. However, I have loved it for a good long while. It’s lovely and light, modern and fresh, and simply glows. This piece is finished with an organic milk paint finish. Comes in various colors, but I’m sticking with linen, my fave.

+ Fernwalla

Read the rest of this entry »

Seven Tips for A Greener Holiday Season

November 20, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

Anyone can green up the holiday season. Try these easy seven tips out…

  1. Make homemade eco friendly gifts instead of buying new, overpriced, bad for the environment gifts.
  2. Use LED lighting for all your holiday needs. LED tree lights, LED house lights, and special LED accessory lights.
  3. Use recycled wrapping paper for gifts. You can even make your own with homemade paper, old newspaper, or last year’s wrap. After festivities recycle the wrap again.
  4. Make it an earth friendly year by buying fewer overall gifts. Make time for your family and friends vs. purchasing products for them. I suggest a nature walk. Think it’s too cold? Read, 25 Reasons To Get Outside During Winter for ideas.
  5. Have a tree-free year, or at least learn more about the best Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree options.
  6. Host an Eco-Friendly Winter Party — Save Heat and Save Money!
  7. Green your holiday baking – use organic ingredients and eco-safe bake ware. No time to bake? Find the most Amazing Organic Holiday Cookies.

To learn more about green holiday tips related to Christmas, check out this book review; Green Christmas.

[top image via Holiday LEDs]

10 Ways To Green Your Thanksgiving

November 16, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

It’s easy to green your Thanksgiving day events and still keep it simple and fun. Try these tips…

  1. Use real dining ware and cloth napkins and tablecloths. While most of us don’t use paper plates at Thanksgiving, some do to save time, or for a Thanksgiving potluck. Using real dishes and cloth napkins plus tablecloths will green up your day in a big way.
  2. Serve organic foods and drinks.If you can’t afford to serve an entirely organic feast, the turkey and dairy good you serve are a good place to start. Poultry and dairy products have both been found to contain plenty of pesticide that you don’t need to serve to your family. Learn which types of foods you should buy organic. Also serve eco-friendly treats with your meal such as organic pies, fair trade coffee, and organic holiday cookies.
  3. Go veggie! Don’t serve meat at all. Vegetarian meals have a much smaller impact on the planet.

    4. Read the rest of this entry »

10 Amazing Organic Holiday Cookies

November 9, 2008 in Food & Drink, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guide by Jennifer | 2 comments

Hey folks! Being that it’s the weekend, I thought we’d look at something low-key and fun. 10 sets of beautiful organic holiday cookies.

You can serve these at a holiday get-together at your home, or give them as the perfectly easy holiday gift (If you an give them up). Either way – go cookies!

Love the Planet Cookie Tin – a recycled, reusable tin houses 24 USDA Organic sugar cookies in lovely colors and shapes.

organic cookies

+ Organic Boutique

See more yummy treats! Read the rest of this entry »

Quick Green Home Tip: Boiling Cinnamon for the Holidays

November 3, 2008 in Holiday, Quick Green Home & Garden Tips by Jennifer | No comments

in the last post, we looked at greener air freshener choices, but I realized I left my favorite off. I always boil whole cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and a dash of nutmeg on the stove. If you want to save energy, simply place all those items in a bowl of boiling water, off of the heat. OR you could use a bid diffuser with a candle.

No matter how you boil it, this combo of basic spices makes your house smell wonderful. You can even add a dash of orange essential oil.

Try it for the holidays.

Happy Green Halloween!

October 31, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | No comments

It’s not the best day to discuss solar power, bamboo flooring, and other home issues, is it? No; I think it’s more a day for recycled spooks, green Halloween treats, and scary eco fun.

Here’s a round-up of some killer green-minded Halloween posts from all over the blogosphere… AND a link to a great Halloween blog contest.

From RiverWired:

From Tree Hugging Family:

From Inhabitots:

From all over the spooky green web…

I hope you, your family, and friends have a happy, safe, and eco-friendly Halloween. To celebrate, why not head over to Simply Thrifty and enter the Little Monsters Costume Contest! You could win a Seagate FreeAgent Go.

One Small Green Step You Can Take – Ban Paper Calendars

October 18, 2008 in Holiday, Home Office by Jennifer | 1 comment

With the new year almost here, it’s a great time to take this small step. Ban those paper calendars forever. Paper calendars are an ultimate eco-baddie, because you always need a new one. Every year you’re replacing paper with new paper. If everyone quit buying paper calendars, imagine how many trees we could save.

Other ideas:

Go digital. Use your pda, computer, cell phone, what have you. All these items have handy calendars – usually included in basic software programs. If not, you can always create your own, using say, Word and the table maker. Or you can buy calendar program, some people like Outlook. I hate Outlook (long story), but you can also try one of these options.

Never Buy A Calendar Again – Unique Perpetual Calendars

If you must own a paper calendar be sure to go recycled. Try one of these:

And for some fun recycling read: Uses For Old Calendars

What sort of calendar will you be buying this year?

Green Halloween Decorations for Your Home

October 2, 2008 in Holiday by Jennifer | 2 comments

Holiday decorating is a tradition for many households. Now that spooky old Halloween is upon us, it’s time to break out the ghosts and pumpkins. Here are some tips for keeping it green this Halloween:

Jack O’ Lantern fun: First of all there’s the question of your pumpkin (or pumpkins as the case may be). There are some good arguments for organic pumpkins, but cost is a factor as well. I actually covered this topic at another blog of mine, so instead of rehashing the issue, I’ll simply link you there: Should you buy an organic pumpkin for Halloween?

Spooky decor: There’s no need to buy brand new Halloween decorations. You can break out last year’s decorations or make plenty of your own with a little imagination and some recycled goods:

You can also recycle plain old paper into great crafts. Last year, my son and I created a collection of gravestones and spooky trees on our living room wall.

Scary lighting:

Some people like to hang lights for Halloween. If your family does this, make sure you snag some energy saving LED light strings. Holiday LEDS has a large selection of Halloween colored lights to choose from.

Have fun and don’t forget to stock up on plenty of Fair Trade Treats for Halloween.