tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74723417761977115302024-03-13T13:59:50.333-07:00The Refined HippieThe official blog of Treetie
ShopTreetie.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-8374029632410732922014-01-07T19:57:00.000-08:002014-01-07T20:14:56.405-08:00Made in CharlestonHere is a lineup of some of my favorite local Charleston products. Over the years, Charleston has attracted an array of creative entrepreneurs who promote an environmentally and socially conscious lifestyle. I love living in a city that makes it so easy to source fun, innovative, high quality goods from right around the block. The following products are a perfect complement to a healthy, well-balanced, high vibe way of life.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">1. <a href="http://www.affordabike.com/" target="_blank">Affordabike'</a>s budget friendly beach cruisers are custom made to your color and style preferences.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">2. <a href="http://shop.eatsweeteeth.com/" target="_blank">Sweeteeth</a>'s locally made chocolates come in exciting flavors like peanut butter- chipotle and port wine- caramel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">3.<a href="http://www.deepsteep.com/" target="_blank"> Deep Steep</a> natural beauty products offer something you can feel safe about slathering on your body. My personal favorite is the lavender-chamomile bubble bath & body wash.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">4. <a href="http://www.rewinedcandles.com/" target="_blank">Rewined</a>'s candles made using recycled wine glasses and natural premium soy wax- the chardonnay is delicious!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">5. These colorful cosmetic bags from <a href="http://www.proudmary.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Proud Mary</a> are actually made in Guatemala in an effort to bring economic independence to impoverished communities around the globe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">6. <a href="http://www.jackrudycocktailco.com/" target="_blank">Jack Rudy Cocktail Co</a>'s small batch tonic doesn't just taste good but also makes a visually pleasing addition to your bar cart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">7. Sweetgrass baskets (found at Charleston's City Market) are my favorite way to store & display local produce.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8. <a href="http://www.grawnola.com/" target="_blank">Graw</a> bars are gluten free, raw, vegan, and delicious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">9. For those warm porch-sitting nights, a <a href="http://www.fireflyvodka.com/" target="_blank">Firefly</a> sweet tea vodka with lemonade does a soul good. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-69143166988250861052013-05-01T19:35:00.000-07:002013-05-01T19:35:03.362-07:007 Spring Recipes for Eating Seasonally<div style="text-align: left;">
It's finally that time of year when fresh, local vegetables are mature and waiting to be devoured- and some of the best ones at that. I have a love affair with root vegetables like beets and carrots, and we all know how much our bodies thank us when we fill up on leafy greens like kale, spinach, and swiss chard. My CSA bag has been imploding with more vegetables than I know what to do with, so I have been in the process of compiling a list of recipes that'll put them to use. I have found that the hardest obstacle to overcome when it comes to eating healthy is planning ahead, so coming up with weekly meal plans and recipes makes it much easier to stay healthy. I suggest allocating one or two days each week to prepping food. Roast your vegetables while a casserole or these <a href="http://the-refined-hippie.blogspot.com/2013/04/csa-series-mini-frittatas.html" target="_blank">mini frittatas</a> bake; dice ingredients to go in a salad as a pot of soup or stew simmers on the stovetop. It definitely takes a little bit of practice, but once you find your groove food prep will seem so much easier!</div>
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Here is a list of what is fresh and in season for the Spring.</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Asparagus</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Spinach</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Kale</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Carrots</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Beets</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Broccoli</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Lettuce (various varieties)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Onions</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Rutabaga</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Peas</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Strawberries</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Turnips</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Parsnips</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Brussel Sprouts</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Cabbage</li>
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And here are some delicious seasonal recipes that'll be sure to get you excited about your next trip to the farmers market.<br />
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1. Chilled Carrot Ginger Soup via <a href="http://blog.freepeople.com/2012/07/guest-post-chilled-carrot-ginger-coconut-soup-vegan-glutenfree/" target="_blank">Free People Blog</a><br />
2. Kale Chips via <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2010/03/baked-kale-chips/" target="_blank">Smitten Kitchen</a><br />
3. Asparagus Soup via <a href="http://cookeatpaleo.com/asparagus-soup-recipe/" target="_blank">Cook Eat Paleo</a><br />
4. Beet & Brown Rice Salad via <a href="http://www.wholeliving.com/133416/beet-and-brown-rice-salad-goat-cheese?czone=eat-well/seasonal-foods/winter&center=136760&gallery=136125&slide=133417" target="_blank">Whole Living</a><br />
5. Green Smoothie via <a href="http://simplegreensmoothies.com/" target="_blank">Simple Green Smoothies</a><br />
6. Strawberry, Arugula & Asparagus Salad via <a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/blog/post/15338295731/springtime-asparagus-strawberry-arugula-salad" target="_blank">The Back Burner</a><br />
7. Warm Spring Salad via <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2013/04/15/warm-spring-salad/" target="_blank">Oh She Glows</a><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">One of the best ways to sneak in your daily leafy greens is to throw them into a smoothie. I like to start with 1 cup almond milk then add in 1 cup frozen fruit, 1 scoop protein mix, and a handful of greens. The website SimpleGreenSmoothies.com has a plethora of smoothie recipes and also discusses the benefits of adding juices and green smoothies to your daily routine.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-19725303769255756132013-04-16T12:22:00.001-07:002013-04-16T12:22:04.140-07:00TREETIE GOES GLOBAL<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdifYmcQCis/UW2jjUu31NI/AAAAAAAAAk8/XJJUqIJNckQ/s1600/International+Shipping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdifYmcQCis/UW2jjUu31NI/AAAAAAAAAk8/XJJUqIJNckQ/s640/International+Shipping.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am super excited to announce that Treetie is now offering international shipping, so all you green loving fashionistas can shop your little hearts out. A $35 flat rate international shipping cost will apply to all destinations outside of the United States. Be aware that shipping times may vary, and orders may or may not be subject to additional duties and taxes upon arrival, which are the buyer's responsibility.<br />
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That being said, happy shopping to everyone abroad and please contact me at nichole@shoptreetie.com with any questions you have regarding international shipping!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-38928676678628972902013-04-12T07:18:00.000-07:002013-04-12T07:18:13.475-07:00You're Never Too Old For a Treehouse<br />
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My fantasy of having a treehouse is one that I will never outgrow, especially with 'treehouse porn' like this floating around the web. One day...</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-42939865348031061482013-04-11T08:00:00.002-07:002013-04-11T08:00:29.015-07:00CSA Series: Mini Frittatas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm always on the lookout for meals that are easy to prepare, convenient when on-the-go, and nutritious, and these little 'tatas tick off all the above criteria. I wanted to use up the greens I received in my CSA bag last week and this was the perfect way to make use of them. You can really add in whatever mix-ins you'd like, but I think a mixture of greens and crumbled cheese is the best combination. </div>
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Ingredients</div>
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7 eggs</div>
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1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt</div>
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1/4 cup non-dairy milk</div>
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2 cups fresh greens or vegetables (I used kale and swiss chard)</div>
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1/4 cup crumbled cheese</div>
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1-2 Tbsp olive oil</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat olive oil in a saute pan then add your greens and cook until wilted. Meanwhile whisk together your eggs, then add in non-dairy milk and yogurt. Add your cheese of choice, then mix in your vegetables or greens. Spray a muffin tin pan, then scoop the mixture into the individual holes. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the centers are firm. This should make about 10 mini-frittatas.</div>
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Again, a great way to use up an abundance of fresh produce. These can be easily stored and even frozen, then popped into the microwave when ready to eat!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-90584765523144122922013-04-08T13:40:00.002-07:002013-04-08T13:40:50.772-07:00Green Fashion Collaboration: Treetie + VintageousWhat happens when two business-minded, juice-drinking, yoga-practicing fashionistas come across each other at an entrepreneurial-focused conference in Los Angeles? Besides bonding over bellinis, they join forces to create the ultimate green fashion power duo.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTJD9GH9Fwk/UWMmMv7OSYI/AAAAAAAAAis/5wn3UawV8_Y/s1600/treetievintageous.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTJD9GH9Fwk/UWMmMv7OSYI/AAAAAAAAAis/5wn3UawV8_Y/s400/treetievintageous.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8rvgwJiokWY/UWMmBLATZ8I/AAAAAAAAAik/hZRs-7OtCkM/s1600/nikkijen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8rvgwJiokWY/UWMmBLATZ8I/AAAAAAAAAik/hZRs-7OtCkM/s400/nikkijen.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Treetie and Vintageious are like the yin-yang of eco fashion. While Treetie offers fresh new movements in sustainable apparel, Vintageous gives consumers the ability to connect with past decades in fashion. Where Treetie is the innovator, Vintageous is the preserver. WHen you buy 'eco fashion,' you demand higher standards from apparel manufacturers, and when you buy vintage you prevent beautiful clothing from ending up in landfills. Environmental consciousness and aesthetic appeal are values upon which both of our brands are built. Yes we both love fashion and yes we both dress to impress, but neither of us believe that this should come at the expense of the environment. This dogma is one that both of us are eager and excited to help spread to all fashion-loving women out there.<br />
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To celebrate this new union, Treetie and Vintageous will be hosting a contest for the chance to win a $50 gift certificate to both online shops. All you need to do is sign up for our e-newsletter and share this post via Facebook or Twitter. Once we get to 100 new subscribers we will pick two lucky winners.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-15807215315933831222013-04-07T23:10:00.000-07:002013-04-07T23:10:01.543-07:00CSA Series: Spring Root Vegetable SoupThis past week I received my first share of produce from the local CSA that I joined. CSA's are a great way to support your local farmers and economy while ensuring you get the most out of your fruits and veggies. Local produce is much nutrient-rich than the produce you buy at the grocery store which has traveled for days to reach you. <br />
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Here's what was in my first week's bag:<br />
-cabbage<br />
-kale<br />
-swiss chard<br />
-asparagus<br />
-turnips<br />
-carrots<br />
-rutabaga<br />
-spinach<br />
-onions <br />
-strawberries<br />
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To make use of my root vegetables I whipped up a large pot of root vegetable soup. The best thing about this soup is that you can throw in whatever happens to be growing at any given time. This week meant turnips, carrots, and rutabaga, and I threw in some fresh rosemary and thyme leaves from my patio to make it extra savory.<br />
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Spring Root Vegetable Soup</h3>
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<br /><i>Ingredients</i></h4>
3 lb root vegetables, chopped and cut into 1 inch chunks<br />
1 onion, green & white parts, chopped<br />
3 celery stalks, chopped<br />
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped<br />
fresh rosemary<br />
fresh thyme<br />
2 Tbsp butter<br />
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock<br />
4 cups water salt and pepper, to taste<br />
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<i>Directions</i></h4>
1. Heat butter in a large stock pot. Add onion and celery and saute until tender. Add in garlic, thyme, and rosemary and cook for 1-2 minutes more. <i> </i><br />
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2. Add in root vegetables, stock, and water. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 30-40 more minutes. When all vegetables are soft, remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the mixture. You may work in batches with a traditional blender to puree the soup.<br />
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3. Add any additional seasonings you prefer, and enjoy!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-15044936500924696512013-04-01T18:28:00.000-07:002013-04-01T18:28:06.463-07:00Cheers to a Happy, Healthy April <img class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/736x/38/0a/65/380a65567e668fa0c2970a9eeb3dc56a.jpg" style="height: 598px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 553px;" /><br />
April has arrived!<br />
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I may be partially biased but I believe April to be, hands down, the best month of the year. Not only is it the month of both my birthday and Earth Day, the weather down here in South Carolina is absolutely perfect this month- not too hot, no longer cold, hello skirts and sundresses.<br />
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Bikini season is just around the corner and now is the best time to start working on getting those abs peeking through the "winter layer" and those arms nice and toned. I did a fair share of indulging this past weekend (Easter mimosas and bloody mary's, Reese's eggs, oh yeah and an improptu viewing of the Chippendales) so I'm taking today to get myself back in gear. This week I will receive my first share of produce from the local CSA I signed up for, so I will be posting weekly recipes using fresh, seasonal produce. I have also been slacking a bit in the fitness department, so I've come up with a list of goals for this month.<br />
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April Fitness Plan<br />
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Weight training 3-4 times per week<br />
Running/ cardio 3 times per week<br />
Yoga 1-2 times per week<br />
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I usually find it a lot easier to clean up my diet in the Spring when there's an abundance of fresh veggies, and running outside is so much more appealing when it's not so cold that I spend the whole time blowing snot rockets (classy, I know). So hopefully with a consistent exercise routine and cleaner eating I'll be in bathing suit shape in no time. Happy, healthy April everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-20027781059322929792013-03-29T02:51:00.001-07:002013-03-29T02:51:22.174-07:00Pale Is Pretty: Tips for Embracing Fair Skin<br />
If you're anything like me, you have probably struggled between what the media touts as "beautiful" when it comes to complexion- bronzed, tan, sun-kissed, call it what you may- and what is healthy for you and your skin in the long run. My heritage is mainly German and Scandinavian (Norwegian), so sun-kissed is not a term best used to describe our complexion. I have been inside tanning beds, stood awkwardly naked for professional spray tans, and had chemicals spewed in my face during machine sunless tans, all in an effort to achieve that perfect "glow." And this is all despite the awareness of the harm that I was inflicting upon myself. Thankfully as I get older I also grow smarter, and I no longer subject myself to this nonsense. <br />
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We all know that tanning beds cause an array of health issues ranging from skin spots to melanoma, but now the word is out that spray tans are not necessarily any safer. Spray tans contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that has been shown to "cause genetic mutations" on cells in a lab. So why are we still doing this to ourselves? The only way to break this self-destructive habit of trying to achieve a look that is simply not natural is to learn to embrace what we were born with. For some of us that means accepting that <b>pale is pretty</b>.<br />
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I am enamored by celebrities and other women out there who <b>own their paleness</b> and prove that it is just as <b>beautiful</b>. Kirsten Dunst is one that I find does this extremely well (shout out to a fellow Dunst!) Below are some photographs that I hope will help prove to you all that pale is indeed pretty.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ljKWewhXmV4/UVVg81VAJ8I/AAAAAAAAAgE/_HG57dmZzZY/s1600/pale+is+pretty+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6xJHPQH_z4/UVVVqmNt_BI/AAAAAAAAAfw/BsBlDN5GZ6k/s1600/pale+is+pretty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6xJHPQH_z4/UVVVqmNt_BI/AAAAAAAAAfw/BsBlDN5GZ6k/s640/pale+is+pretty.jpg" width="568" /></a></div>
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Another reason to love your fair skin is that we rock bold makeup trends like no other. Recently I have been into the deep plum lip color like Ilia's Ink Pot paired with a neutral blush or bronzer such as Tarte's amazonian clay blush in Exposed.<br />
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These eco beauty finds work great for porcelain and ivory skin tones:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ljKWewhXmV4/UVVg81VAJ8I/AAAAAAAAAgE/_HG57dmZzZY/s1600/pale+is+pretty+2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="636" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ljKWewhXmV4/UVVg81VAJ8I/AAAAAAAAAgE/_HG57dmZzZY/s640/pale+is+pretty+2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Dollface // Exposed // Peaceful</div>
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Ilia Organic Lipstick in Inkpot // Wild Child // Neon Angel</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-3855933586148486702013-03-28T10:41:00.002-07:002013-03-28T10:41:26.910-07:00Healthy Chicken Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C4gsBj6rO2I/UVR-wo0MViI/AAAAAAAAAfg/d9JFb38ZQFk/s1600/healthy+chicken+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C4gsBj6rO2I/UVR-wo0MViI/AAAAAAAAAfg/d9JFb38ZQFk/s640/healthy+chicken+salad.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What I love most about experimenting in the kitchen is creating new recipes from not-so-healthy classics and discovering that they end up not just healthier, but even better tasting. This recipe is a healthy spin on the classic Waldorf salad which can be enjoyed entirely guilt-free. In place of mayo I used all natural almond butter for my healthy fats, with a touch of honey for some added sweetness. This recipe is super easy to make and can be enjoyed all week long for a quick, easy meal. For a low cal, high-protein lunch that will keep you satiated throughout the afternoon, wrap 1 cup of this chicken salad up in a romaine lettuce leaf. <br />
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Also, feel free to make tweaks of your own to suit your preferences. Because I used almond butter in place of mayo, I decided to leave out the chopped nuts that are typically in a Waldorf salad. But hey, if you're feeling nutty you go right ahead and throw some pecans in there! (or almonds, or whatever else is hanging out in your pantry). You could also use apples in place of pears- whatever is in season is your best bet.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-63840008313177504212013-03-25T15:04:00.001-07:002013-03-25T15:04:07.062-07:00Spring '13 Eco Footwear Finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Rhru4QPT4/UVC8v3ejzqI/AAAAAAAAAfI/sp-kxomCkuE/s1600/Spring+Footwear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Rhru4QPT4/UVC8v3ejzqI/AAAAAAAAAfI/sp-kxomCkuE/s1600/Spring+Footwear.jpg" /> </a></div>
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1. <a href="http://www.myjuliebees.com/shoes/atlanta-coral-leather-ballet-flat" target="_blank">Atlanta Coral Leather Ballet Flat</a> by Julie Bee's // 2. Beaded Leather Sandals by <a href="http://www.olsenhaus.com/collections" target="_blank">Olsen Haus</a> // 3. <a href="http://www.coclico.com/megumi/dp/5198" target="_blank">Megumi Wedges</a> by Coclico // 4. <a href="http://www.neuaurashoes.com/amina-orange/" target="_blank">Amina ballet flats</a> by Neuaura // 5. <a href="http://cridecoeur.myshopify.com/products/emerson-ankle-cuff-platform-sandal-peach" target="_blank">Emerson Ankle Cuff Sandals</a> by Cri De Coeur</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-4618536996703678172013-03-22T06:28:00.000-07:002013-03-22T06:28:20.692-07:00Friday Giveaway: Parakeet Water Bottle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I am offering everyone a chance to win this charming BPA-free water bottle with "three little birds," so you can step into Spring in style! It's almost time to pack away those winter boots and break out the sandals. Take these charming little birds on your bike rides around town or on a run to stay hydrated.</div>
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All you have to do is log on and "like" us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/shoptreetie" target="_blank">Facebook </a>then share the link with all of your friends. A winner will be chosen at the end of the night.</div>
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Happy Friday and happy first week of Spring everyone!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-19601176201111580222013-03-19T10:41:00.000-07:002013-03-19T11:09:51.521-07:00Book Review: The Honest Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/HwSwRkxspuM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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On my flight home from Los Angeles this past weekend I was looking for some new reading material when I remembered Jessica Alba's newly released book The Honest Life. I've always thought Jessica Alba to be incredibly beautiful and talented young woman, but in learning how dedicated she is to green living my admiration for her has grown exponentially.<br />
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What I really loved about this book is that it leaves room for flaw, with no judgement and no patronizing. We are all doing our best to create a greener, more ethical environment around us but a lot of times life gets in the way and we end up making not-so-great choices. This book isn't about being perfect. Rather, it's about the small steps we take in our day-to-day lives that over time add up to something big. It's about better educating ourselves on what types of products we're allowing into our homes, our family's lives, and our own bodies. Jessica has done an extensive amount of research on the harmful ingredients that make up much of everyday consumer products, and offers safe alternatives. Which makes our lives a whole lot easier- now all I need to do is whip out my Nook and refer to Jessica's helpful notes when I'm struggling between two different "natural" cleaning products (FYI- something that's labeled "natural" on its packaging isn't necessarily safe or environmentally friendly).<br />
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I highly recommend that anyone who's trying to lead a greener lifestyle pick up a copy of this book (or better yet, download a copy to your e-reader. Save a tree!). It's like the Green Living Bible for the fashion-conscious or simply for anyone who wants to make improvements in their daily life without drastically revamping their entire world. It's just like when you're starting a new diet to try and lose weight. You don't just go cold-turkey and completely eliminate entire food groups in hopes of a quick fix; you make gradual improvements and adjustments every day until you find a good, sustainable balance. I feel that green living is very much the same. If we try and do too much at once, eventually we get discouraged, give up, and go back to our old way of living. This all-or-nothing mentality rarely works in any new endeavor, and I really do discourage you from taking this approach.<br />
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In The Honest Life, Jessica Alba discusses several different topics including fashion, beauty, food, cleaning products, and for those mothers & mothers-to-be out there, how to create a safe environment for your little one. No matter where you're at in life, I assure you there is much to be taken out of this book. Now that I have it conveniently stored in my e-reader, I know that I will be referring back to it time and again.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-71971369353329557972013-03-15T13:44:00.000-07:002013-03-15T13:44:29.265-07:00The Cost of Ethical Fashion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8NMBtHk-MUE/UUOHqzu5PUI/AAAAAAAAAeI/0UG7fibbVUc/s1600/LookBookImage15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8NMBtHk-MUE/UUOHqzu5PUI/AAAAAAAAAeI/0UG7fibbVUc/s640/LookBookImage15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The higher-than-average prices associated with most ethical fashion brands raises a lot of questions and concerns when customers are shopping around. "But I can get a top that looks just like this from Forever 21 or Urban Outfitters for one third of the cost, so why would I spend more on this one?" If this is a question you find yourself asking, you're not alone. I admit, it's tempting to go to a fast fashion store where you know you can walk out with five new items of clothing rather than spend it all on one item elsewhere. What we all need to realize, though, is that these fast fashion retailers must cut corners in order to be able to charge the prices that they do, and a lot of the time this comes at the cost of company ethics and social responsibility. </div>
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I'm going to get a little 'Economics 101' on you, so I apologize in advance since taking Econ once is more than enough. Fast fashion and mass producers of apparel benefit from what we all know as 'economies of scale.' They are producing single items of clothing in quantities in the thousands and more. But in order to pull this off, they must outsource to countries with workers who are willing (and desperate) to work for next-to-nothing wages, using materials that were created in ways that are not environmentally sustainable. I can promise you that if a shirt is costing you $20 or less, the workers involved in making that shirt were not earning $8 an hour. Another thing to take into account is the fuel and energy required to create these mass amounts of clothing and then have them shipped halfway across the world and redistributed throughout the United States. </div>
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The beautiful thing about this industry is that us consumers ultimately hold all the power. If we continue to choose to buy dirt-cheap mass-produced clothing, then manufacturers are going to keep making them. But if we choose to invest a little bit more money into something that we know was made with some love, compassion, and a sense of responsibility (even if it means we can only afford a few new items each season as opposed to fifteen), then the fashion industry will be forced to respond. </div>
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I'm not asking anyone to go out and spend $150 on a shirtdress instead of paying rent this month. We all know what prices we are realistically able to pay, and if ethically-made fashion just does not fit into your budget then that's for you to decide and for no one to judge. All I want to do is urge consumers to think on a slightly deeper level about how their lifestyle and purchase decision impact other people and the environment. I am always on the lookout for more affordable options in terms of eco-friendly, organic, fair-trade fashion brands, and I am honored to be able to offer brands like Groceries Apparel and Reco Denim which are a little easier on the wallet. However, you will never see anything on shoptreetie.com unless I am assured that it was made without damaging the planet or exploiting others for their labor.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-33893551756483694562013-03-13T20:54:00.002-07:002013-03-13T20:54:48.790-07:00The Refined Hippie Is Back In Action
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First off I would like to take the time to apologize for my
shameful eight-month hiatus from the blogging world. To anyone who feels
personally offended by it (I’m guessing I haven’t deeply upset anyone with my
internet absence), I am sincerely sorry.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Eight months ago I packed up my car and moved down south to
the charming old Southern city of Charleston, SC. I launched an online boutique
called <a href="http://shoptreetie.com/">ShopTreetie.com</a> where I sell eco friendly women’s fashion apparel and
accessories. In October I participated in a local fashion show to help get the
name of my business out in the community. I am now also working as a cocktail
server at a beautiful 5 star resort while working on growing and expanding my
online business. These past few months I have experienced first-hand the
insufficiency of merely 24 hours in one day, hence my anti-commitment to social
media. It may not be an excuse, but it’s all I’ve got.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just last week I received a call from a marketing company revealing
to me that I was chosen as a semi-finalist for a contest I entered a couple
months back. The contest is called Scion Motivate, sponsored and organized by
Toyota’s child company Scion, which is geared towards a younger audience. Fifty
young entrepreneurs were selected as semi-finalists to be flown out to Los
Angeles for a week of business related workshops, as well as the chance to win
a brand new car and $10,000 to help grow our businesses.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So here I am, just one week after receiving that call,
sitting in a beautiful beach-front resort in Santa Monica, California, excited
and anxious to see what the next few days bring.<o:p></o:p></div>
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While a brand new car and an extra $10,000 in my business’
bank account would be fabulous, I will at the bare minimum benefit from a
resurged sense of motivation and determination to make Treetie a success,
expert advice and priceless mentoring from the best of the best, and a reminder
to dedicate more time to some of my hobbies that have been pushed to the
backburner these past few months, like writing, cooking, and photography. Okay,
I’m definitely not complaining about a free trip to Los Angeles and four days
on the beach either. I look forward to meeting and befriending other
like-minded, hard-working, passionate souls that will be in attendance, and to
networking with individuals who have the power to help make my business dreams
come true. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I promise you will be hearing more from me from here on out,
and I look forward to updating you all on this mini-adventure, and to hopefully
post pictures of my new fuel-friendly Scion xD that I hypothetically win.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Peace out ya'll.</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-91151544815747820802012-08-19T18:58:00.001-07:002012-08-19T19:03:26.807-07:00Keurig Takes Over the World... and All the Landfills<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru8zVoWt6ys/UDGWS-V3cdI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/zI72_aWpT84/s1600/U75bB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru8zVoWt6ys/UDGWS-V3cdI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/zI72_aWpT84/s640/U75bB.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There is one recent American consumer-based fad in particular that sufficiently demonstrates just how lazy we have all become. Let me introduce you to the Keurig, although I highly doubt you need introduction. Have our personal and professional lives really become that urgent that taking an extra five minutes to brew a pot of regular, old-fashioned coffee is out of the question? To me, coffee is more than just a means of kicking my body in gear for the day. It's a ritual. I cherish taking those first thirty-or-so minutes of my day to sip on a mug of freshly brewed coffee and savor a hearty breakfast. It's the one part of the day that I happily allow to transpire in slow motion. Do we honestly need our lives to happen at fast-forward like speeds for every waking second?</div>
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North American consumers go through roughly 2.5 million Keurig singles daily... <i>daily!</i> And almost 2 billion cups have been brewed since the company first started doing business in 1998. You can listen to them boast and brag about these statistics<a href="http://www.keurig.com/in-the-news/2010/~/media/Files/News%20And%20Media%20PDFs/keurig_CoProfile.ashx" target="_blank"> right here</a> in their corporate profile. Also adding to the carbon footprint left by Keurig are the production and shipping processes that are required to deliver the machines and single coffee cups to households around the nation. </div>
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In comparison, old-fashioned ground coffee can be composted, along with those paper coffee filters. Coffee beans make an excellent addition to compost for acid-loving plants like hydrangeas, blueberries, and azaleas. By reverting back to old fashion brewed coffee, you're not only saving on grocery bills but preventing thousands of those plastic-squandering Keurig cups from making homes out of landfills.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-50435074078051693022012-08-18T21:02:00.003-07:002012-08-18T21:02:52.460-07:00Spicy Black Bean Burgers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cCNoMHUZ9ls/UDBiH6GkbqI/AAAAAAAAAcw/QjMo-RkwO2w/s1600/blackbeanburgers+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cCNoMHUZ9ls/UDBiH6GkbqI/AAAAAAAAAcw/QjMo-RkwO2w/s1600/blackbeanburgers+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love a good homemade veggie patty. It allows me to use my creativity in the kitchen, and I also love being able to throw in whatever I happen to have on hand. Which in this week's case happens to be spicy peppers. I've got jalapeños and chili peppers dropping by the dozen in the garden, and I decided they would make a great addition to a black bean burger. These patties are hearty, healthy, and have a nice kick to 'em.<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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-1 cup dried black beans<br />
-1 cup chopped onions<br />
-1 cup chopped peppers<br />
-1 cup bread crumbs<br />
-1 egg<br />
-3 cloves garlic<br />
-1 Tbsp ground cumin<br />
-1 Tbsp chili powder<br />
-olive oil, for frying<br />
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Directions:<br />
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1. Cook the black beans according to the package. They will make about 3 cups cooked black beans.<br />
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2. Mash the cooked black beans and mix together in a bowl with the chopped onions and peppers. Add the spices. Whisk the egg, then add to the dry mixture.<br />
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3. Form 6 individual flat, round patties.<br />
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4. Heat a lightly oiled pan or skillet over med-high heat. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until slightly browned.<br />
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Enjoy in a pita pocket with spinach and guacamole, atop a bed of lettuce, or whichever other way floats your boat. You can also add a crumbly cheese like feta or goat cheese to the recipe to give it a little extra oomph. Leftovers can also be frozen for later enjoyment, so don't be afraid to make a big batch of them.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-33389804484705610822012-08-17T07:43:00.000-07:002012-08-17T07:43:20.069-07:00Summer Love List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMo6H5N4ZoM/UC1p0IAYRxI/AAAAAAAAAcE/7Ilq2DxADDQ/s1600/hippe+hankerings1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMo6H5N4ZoM/UC1p0IAYRxI/AAAAAAAAAcE/7Ilq2DxADDQ/s1600/hippe+hankerings1.jpg" /></a></div>
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(one) soy based 'mimosa' <a href="http://www.kobocandles.com/pages/store_detailpage.php?id=32" target="_blank">candle</a> by KOBA (two) wood-framed shades by <a href="http://www.shwoodshop.com/" target="_blank">Shwood</a> (three) marigold yellow <a href="http://www.loomstate.org/blank-vneck-tee-marigold-yellow.html" target="_blank">organic tee</a> by Loomstate (four) driftwood <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/driftwood-side-table/s438106" target="_blank">side table</a> by Crate & Barrel (five) a fun<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/84864774199070263/" target="_blank"> DIY</a> idea I found on pinterest (six) I finished this light, summer read in less than a day & a half... needless to say it's worth reading ;)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-17897195200437351602012-08-11T13:43:00.001-07:002012-08-11T13:43:52.369-07:00Des Artistes- a collaboration between art and sustainable fashionThe brand Des Artistes presents a fusion of art and eco-consciousness by collaborating with contemporary artistes to create unique and interesting graphic tees. Des Artistes uses organic and sustainable fabrics with "low-impact water-based" inks, and donates to a different charitable organization each season. The company operates out of Munich, Germany but is sold in Anthropologie stores in the United States.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rDF0zDU-bnc/UCbDurrK94I/AAAAAAAAAbk/j8Jm8ZiVLXE/s1600/des+artistes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rDF0zDU-bnc/UCbDurrK94I/AAAAAAAAAbk/j8Jm8ZiVLXE/s1600/des+artistes.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1. Read My Mind by Kasia Jackowska // 2. Hanging Man by Ai Weiwei // 3. Miss Thang by Franco Mondini-Ruiz // </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4. Blank Canvas tee</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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Check 'em out: <a href="http://www.desartistes.org/">www.desartistes.org</a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-11760522420042578732012-08-10T11:55:00.000-07:002012-08-10T11:55:16.832-07:00Green Tip of the Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TLbQbap-FRk/UCProjhBl9I/AAAAAAAAAX0/V18UVkhADGI/s1600/Green+Tips+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TLbQbap-FRk/UCProjhBl9I/AAAAAAAAAX0/V18UVkhADGI/s1600/Green+Tips+2.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's no secret that we Americans consume far more sugar than is needed or healthy. I make no strides to hide my unrelenting sweet tooth, but I try my best to keep it under control and to choose the more sustainable options when choosing sweeteners. Sugar production is responsible for more loss in biodiversity than any other crop, and America and Europe are the two biggest culprits for excessive sugar production. Sugar farms use harmful amounts of pesticides and are accountable for the resulting polluted wastewater.<br />
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In my opinion, honey is the most sustainable option when it comes to natural sweeteners because it can be purchased locally almost anywhere. Honey produced from clover and wildflowers leave essentially no trace on local ecosystems. Clover is actually beneficial to the environment because it naturally fixes nitrogen in the soil. Although honey is higher in calories than white sugar, it is sweeter so you don't need to use as much of it. It also has added health benefits such as improving immunity, blood sugar control, helping with allergies, and is effective as a cough suppressant.<br />
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Next time you run out of that bag of white sugar sitting in your pantry, stop by your local farmer and pick up a jar of honey and use it to sweeten your tea, stir into your oatmeal, and substitute in the kitchen when making baked goods.<br />
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Other (more) sustainable options:<br />
<br />
1. Coconut palm sugar<br />
2. Brown rice syrup<br />
3. Maple syrup<br />
4. Agave nectar<br />
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Just keep in mind that most of these sweeteners are not produced locally for most of us, so the fuel it requires to have them shipped all around the country leaves a pretty hefty carbon footprint. It's not necessarily the process that makes them less sustainable options than honey, but the need for them to be transported after they have been produced.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-32950337383036730862012-08-08T20:43:00.000-07:002012-08-08T20:43:23.362-07:00Green Tip of the DayReaders, allow me to introduce you to 'Green Tip of the Day.' From now on I will be posting daily tips that will help you lead a more sustainable lifestyle. Green living may seem a daunting lifestyle change when tons of information is shoved down your throat all at once. The reality is, just making small individual changes really do add up. Taking baby steps and making small tweaks to your day-to-day routines will ultimately impact the environment for the better.<div>
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Alas, the first Green Tip of the Day.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7f6lcAHqWL0/UCMtmnA-kfI/AAAAAAAAAXY/1nzwZyMfKKQ/s1600/greentip1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7f6lcAHqWL0/UCMtmnA-kfI/AAAAAAAAAXY/1nzwZyMfKKQ/s1600/greentip1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I thought this tip to be especially appropriate in the midst of these beautiful summer months. </div>
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I understand, you're just trying to do favors for your waistline when you pound out a six mile run on the treadmill at your local gym. However, you're most likely going through gas to transport yourself to the gym and then using up electrical energy on those cardio machines. A treadmill averages 600-700 watts of energy. By taking your cardio to the outdoors for 150 minutes per week, you are saving an annual 110 pounds of carbon emissions... Even more if you factor in the televisions that many cardio machines come equipped with these days.</div>
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Even if it's just once or twice per week, try to run or walk outdoors whenever the weather permits. The Vitamin D fix will boost your mood and you can fight boredom with frequent changes in scenery. The website <a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/?" target="_blank">Map My Run</a> allows you to search for popular running routes in your local neighborhood, as well as track your mileage and calories burnt. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-86415913102208148052012-08-04T07:57:00.000-07:002012-08-04T07:57:14.255-07:00Banana Nut BreadI'm really not much of a baker- cooking is my more thing. A good 70% of my baking attempt are total flops. However, I needed to do something with our overripe bananas that were quickly en route to the garbage can, so yesterday I whipped up a loaf of banana nut bread. This bread (which is really more like cake) is by far the biggest success I've experienced in the world of baked goods. It's perfectly moist and just the right amount of sweet. I used <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/banana-walnut-bread-221526" target="_blank">this recipe</a>, but doubled the amount of chopped walnuts (what can I say?... I like it nutty!) and substituted pure stevia for splenda. <div>
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The best thing about this recipe is that it's not even all that bad for you! The use of plain yogurt and mashed bananas are what make it so moist, and when you use calorie-free stevia extract, it's less than 200 calories per serving. The ultimate non-guilty pleasure.</div>
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I enjoyed a warm piece of bread, fresh out of the oven, topped with some creamed cinnamon honey that we picked up from a local winery on the way back from Walkins Glen on Thursday. My taste buds probably think they died and went to heaven.</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-80845853149055890722012-08-02T19:27:00.000-07:002012-08-02T19:34:56.126-07:00Walkins Glen State ParkI'm counting down the days until I officially relocate my life down to Charleston from upstate New York. I'm beyond psyched, but it's somewhat bittersweet to think that I'm forever leaving behind the place that holds 18+ years of memories for me. I may rag on Rochester for its less-than-ideal climate, but the truth is there is really a lot of beauty that upstate NY has to offer. People travel from all over the world to gawk at the Niagara Falls, wine & dine on the Finger Lakes, and hike the glens and gorges of the area. I love that you can drive ten miles in one direction and find a plethora of fantastic restaurants and boutiques, yet if you drive ten miles in the opposite direction you run into acres of farmland, lakes, and sweet, serene emptiness.<br />
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My mother and I drove down to Walkins Glen State Park today for a hike up the gorge and lunch on the water. Walkins Glen holds a special place in my heart for several reasons; I grew up going to the races in Walkins Glen with my Dad back when he raced Formula Continental cars. His car was yellow with polka dots and was always the easiest (and most exciting) one to pick out from the sidelines where we camped out for days. The state park offers one of the most beautiful hikes I've been to, which is what my mom and I decided to occupy ourselves with today on our days off of work.<br />
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After working up a sweat climbing the 800+ stone steps to the top of the glen we walked through town, perused a few of the antique shops, then stopped for lunch on the water. We each enjoyed a delicious salad- mine was topped with chicken, grilled apples, pecans, and almonds. An excellent combination that I will definitely be recreating in my own kitchen soon. </div>
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I look forward to spending my last week home saying goodbye to all of my favorite Rochester-specific restaurants and hot spots. Hope you all enjoy another lovely summer weekend!</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-79993774621030008902012-07-31T19:52:00.000-07:002012-07-31T19:52:25.855-07:00IKEA's Mini Greenhouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
IKEA is now making it even easier for those city-dwellers to exercise their green thumbs... <i>indoors</i>. The new SOCKER mini greenhouse offers the perfect environment for starting seeds and housing established plants, with a mod-chic visual appeal. These little plant dwellings are decorative, functional, and economical... and only $19.99! Triple whammy. Here are some ideas for what you can do with a SOCKER greenhouse.</div>
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{images via <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70186603/" target="_blank">IKEA website</a>}</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7472341776197711530.post-30350008788608336312012-07-28T19:39:00.002-07:002012-07-28T19:39:57.528-07:00Shrimp & Pesto Pizza<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After coming back from four months of studying in Italy, I was forced to wean myself off of a diet that revolved around pizza, pasta, and gelato. This wasn't too difficult a task because, quite honestly, the pizza over here just does not compare. My all-too-tight jeans were also begging for a break from the carb overhaul, and my broke ass couldn't exactly afford to buy new pants. Now, I love pizza with just about every ounce of my soul and being, but I have come to the acceptance that it is something to be savored and enjoyed in moderation.<br />
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Every now and then I like to take a crack at baking a homemade pizza but the crust always seems to be too soggy/ thick/ chewy, etc. I've tried countless different dough recipes, all to no avail. Little did I know, it wasn't (totally) all my fault, it's really just a matter of how the dough is cooked.<br />
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Today while my mother and I were out shopping we picked up a <u>pizza stone</u>, which is said to cook a crust that is comparable to those baked in a wood fired oven. And let me tell you, it really makes a <i>huge</i><b> </b>difference! I finally got the perfect thin, crunchy pizza crust that I've been striving for. So tonight I whipped up a whole-wheat pizza with pesto, cherry tomatoes (fresh from the back deck), roasted shrimp, and creamy goat cheese. For the pizza dough, I used a recipe from Moosewood Classics cookbook, which made enough for two 12-15 inch pizza crusts.<br />
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<b>Pizza Dough</b><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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<li>1 Tbsp active dry yeast</li>
<li>1 tsp sugar</li>
<li>1 1/3 cups warm water (100-120 degrees)</li>
<li>3 cups unbleached white bread flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup whole wheat flour</li>
<li>1 tsp salt</li>
<li>1/2 tsp ground black pepper</li>
<li>1 Tbsp olive oil</li>
<li>1 to 2 cups unbleached white bread flour for kneading</li>
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Stir the yeast and sugar into the warm water and leave for 10-12 minutes until it starts to foam.</div>
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Stir the water mixture in with the flours, salt and pepper, and 2 tsp of the olive oil. If the dough is sticky, add more flour. Knead the dough for about ten minutes. Next, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and set aside in a warm place to allow the dough to rise. It should take about 40-60 minutes for the dough to double in size. This will yield enough for two 12-15 inch pizza crusts. You can freeze leftover dough for later use.</div>
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You're now ready to make some pizza!</div>
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<b>Shrimp & Pesto Pizza</b><br />
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Ingredients<br />
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<li>1 serving of above pizza dough recipe</li>
<li>1/2 cup prepared pesto</li>
<li>6 oz. goat cheese</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups peeled, deveined shrimp</li>
<li>1 cup cherry tomatoes</li>
<li>1 Tbsp olive oil</li>
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1. Place your pizza stone in the oven then turn the oven on to 450 degrees and allow the stone to preheat for 15-20 minutes. This prevents the stone from cracking- you don't want to put it through any drastic changes in temperature.<br />
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2. Meanwhile, roll out the pizza dough until you've reached your desired shape and thickness. For tonight's dinner, I made two long, skinny pizza crusts (morel like a flatbread pizza). Once the stone has heated, place your dough on top and bake in the oven for about ten minutes.<br />
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3. Mix the shrimp and cherry tomatoes in olive oil with a dash of paprika and some garlic powder, then roast in the oven for twenty minutes (you can do this at the same time that you have the dough in the oven).<br />
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3. Take the pizza crust out and top with pesto, goat cheese, and the roasted shrimp and tomatoes. Put back in the oven and allow the cheese to melt, for about 5-7 minutes.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">{my cherry tomato plants that have found a home on our back deck}</span></div>
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Peace, love, and pizza. Now go invest in a pizza stone, my friends.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07948125877503572119noreply@blogger.com0