Eco-Prep

Faith is Knowing.

2010-05-05T14:06:00.001-04:00

I am a Louisianian. That may not mean much to you. To you, it may just be another way I identify myself, like having dark hair or being of a certain height. But for me, and for everyone else classified as a Louisianian, it means a lot more. It means we cheer relentlessly for a professional football team that had a losing streak a mile wide until we finally won a Superbowl. It means we don’t know what in the world to do when it snows. It means we eat crawfish and pralines, drink Community coffee and Abita beer, and put Tony Chachere’s on just about everything. (And for the record, we just call it “Tony’s”.) But most importantly, it means we understand rebuilding. We have to...we do it just about every year. When you live in a hurricane path, that’s just a risk you take. Louisianians are a resilient people.

I am also a Nashvillian. This week marks the anniversary of my move to Nashville. I spent 3 years in Philadelphia and never felt as at home as I do here in Nashville. As I sat in traffic yesterday on I-40 after dropping my mom off at the airport, I started thinking about the similarities between Baton Rouge and Nashville and why these two places have always felt like home to me.

Over the past several days, I have watched my new home become so much like my original home. As my mom and I sat glued to the tv on Saturday watching the weather forecasts, it started to sink in. This storm was serious. We had seen it so many times in our own hometown that we could reasonably predict what would happen. On Sunday, our greatest fears for the city became a reality. But we never imagined what would follow in the next several days. Home after home filled up with water, the city’s historic buildings were bathed in dirty floodwater and the tourist hubs began to disappear as the water crept up farther and farther. And still, the story barely made the national news. It was an all-too-familiar situation.

In late August of 2008, Hurricane Gustav ripped through Baton Rouge, destroying homes and businesses and cars and lives. Like Nashville in the wake of the flood, the media graciously donated fifteen minutes to the “sad situation” in Baton Rouge and it was just as quickly brushed aside in favor of other news. But for 8 days, the city sat without power. The trees that once lined the beautiful streets of the capital city still lined the streets, but in a much sadder and more chaotic fashion. Debris was strewn about, cars were crushed and homes were roofless.

And yet, no one knew. Just a few years before, Hurricane Katrina had garnered more than her share of airtime. But she was different...she came with an abundance of crime and hate and anger and blame. Little (but equally as devastating) brother Gustav packed no such punch. In the aftermath of Gustav, neighbors pulled together to help each other out and clean up their streets. Church groups went from neighborhood to neighborhood offering to pick up debris and clean yards and driveways. Mayor Kip Holden was relentless in his pursuit to restore our city to its place and encouraged residents to lend a hand wherever they could, whether it was with their time or their money. In just a matter of a few months, no trace of a hurricane was left.

In the days since the flooding, I have seen Nashville pull together in that same exact manner. Just as Baton Rouge clung to the motto “We are BR”, Nashville is living up to “We are Nashville,” and with such radiance! This part, too, is familiar. Neighbors are helping neighbors, church groups are sending out volunteers in droves and Mayor Karl Dean is leading the charge to restore his city. There is very little crime resulting from the flood and no one is whining. People are just doing the only thing they know to do, supporting one another. Perhaps that’s why the national media is only just now picking up the story the way they should.

People helping themselves doesn’t garner big ratings. Communities pulling together to accomplish more in a day than major agencies accomplish in weeks doesn’t sell. Picking up the pieces and moving on doesn’t make the front page. But cities that repair themselves and hold their heads high come back. And they come back better than ever.

In his inaugural speech in 2007, Mayor Dean said "Nashville needs to be a city for families." Well, Mayor Dean, Nashville is a city for families, but its also a city of families. This isn’t just a city, it is a community. It is a family.

My heart aches for the people facing loss and devastation. But I am also filled with a sense of immense hope that we will all pull through this because of the faith this city has in God, in itself and in its people. My favorite quote is quite possibly more relevant now than ever before.

“When you come to the end of all the light you know and are forced to step off into the darkness, faith is knowing that one of two things will happen: Either there will be something solid for you to stand on or you will be given wings and taught to fly.”

Faith is knowing we will recover. So go ahead Nashville, spread your wings. Fly.

Size Matters.

2010-03-13T17:39:00.004-05:00

Recently, I've started expanding my "green thinking" to include not only WHAT I live with, but HOW I live with what I have. I have become enamored with the entire "Not So Big House" collection of books by Sarah Susanka.

I love the way Sarah looks at living spaces and the books are a great read. They also look fabulous on my coffee table and in my bookshelf. The collection covers everything from interior design to remodeling to outdoor living spaces. There is even a book called "The Not So Big Life" which has been added to my reading list. If you are interested in making your own life-footprint smaller, take a look at the NSB and see site for yourself here.

The Hiatus is Over...and this Tunic is FABULOUS!

2010-02-08T15:26:00.006-05:00

Well hello again! First and foremost, I must apologize for the extended hiatus. What was originally intended to be a three- or four-day break from blogging turned into a lengthy vacation. I realized that I had lost a bit of the passion I once had for blogging and I needed to focus on some other things in my life. For the past month or so, I have debated coming back to the blog because I used to love it so but I didn't want to have to take another long break. After much contemplation, I realized that there are so many great eco-preppy products out there that the preppy blogging community deserves to know about, and I am honored to be able to share them all with you!!!

Things in our corner of the world are going really well. We are all adjusted to our new home in Nashville and the city has been wonderful! Work is great and things just keep getting better and better. Additionally, I am tweeting these days...a lot. It has become a fun little break for me a few times each day and I love the challenge of communicating in 140 characters or less. If the spirit so moves you, feel free to follow me! My name is ajdelaune.

As my first post back, I want to share with you this adorable tunic from Mountains of the Moon. The Edie Dress is perfect for spring and comes in black and cream, as well as maroon and black.

The dress is on sale right now for $48 and you can get it here.

Mountains of the Moon also has their Coco dress on sale right now. The dress is reminiscent of a Roman Holiday Audrey Hepburn and I have fallen madly in love with it!

You can pick up this classic little number here.

And so, with that, I am back. The posts may not be as frequent as they once were, but they will be regular, I can assure you. Here's hoping you all have a most fabulous day!!!!

Black is the New Green

2009-07-19T17:47:00.003-04:00

We all know that green is the new black. Everyone from eco-friendly celebs to green leaders have told us so. Even tshirts are telling us so! But has black also become the new green?

After browsing in Whole Body the other day, I came across Giovanni's D-tox system. I was initially skeptic of the organic coal-colored products but had a change of heart after reading the ingredients (activated charcoal, volcanic ash and super-antioxidants acai and gojo berry). The system is terrific and leaves my skin looking and feeling fantastic!

Get it here.

The House the Mouse Built Goes Eco.

2009-07-19T17:38:00.003-04:00

Disney is undeniably one of the primary sources of inspiration for the 'tween set and the house that the Mouse built, with it's cute and wholesome shows and movies, has its own set of trendsetters. From fashion to music to causes, the channel's teen stars are definitely making waves. Recently, Disney unveiled its Friends for Change campaign. Spots air with regularity during and between shows and feature the It-girls and It-guys of the teen scene. The idea behind the campaign is the theory that a mass can always do more than just one person. Never have truer words been spoken! Going green is not just for the grownups anymore!

Check out this spot featuring Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus.

De-stressing the Eco Way

2009-07-13T19:36:00.005-04:00

Let's face it, stress happens. It happens to all of us, no matter how calm we are or how we try to avoid it. My favorite way to de-stress is to have a healthy dinner with a glass of wine, take a nice bubble bath, and fall into a super comfortable bed for a solid 8-hour slumber. Since the green movement has steadily spread to all corners, just about anything you could possibly want is now available in "green".

After a particularly stressful day, I love to prepare a quick dinner (or cheat and pick something up) from the organic section of my local grocer or the farmer's market. A glass of organic wine finishes the meal. If you can't find organic wine locally, order yourself a bottle or two from The Organic Wine Company. Check to make sure that your state allows alcohol shipments before you order, though.

The Green Glass Company has a wonderful array of eco-friendly glassware. From tumblers to goblets, they've got it all! I'm a big fan of the clear goblets!!!

Like so many of my fellow greenies, I have eco-sins that go against my passion for living a green life. Among them is my love of the bath. The area around my bathtub looks like an apothecary with all of the products I use, but I try to negate a bit of my impact on the earth by using organic products. Check out The Daily Green's article on green bath scrubs.

Anna Sova makes an incredibly comfortable and still affordable set of organic cotton sheets.

The Bella Pura sheets are available in 4 colors and come in queen and king sizes.

Nothing combats stress like a good night's sleep! So next time you're stressed, feed your body well, take some time for yourself and sleep it off!

Squirrels, Recycling and The Farm Chicks

2009-07-08T18:35:00.003-04:00

Everyone's favorite tiny calico kitty, Miss Harper, has a new best friend. His name is Earl and he is a medium-sized squirrel who has taken to visiting our porch daily. Initially, Earl's visits began when I started putting sunflower seeds in the new birdfeeder and he happily ate all of the seeds the birds dropped or knocked out of the feeder. Now, he comes back for the seeds and for his new friend. They spend half-hours at a time just staring at one another. It might just be the cutest thing I've ever seen! Pictures to come soon, if I can remember to leave the camera in the living room.

In other news, I have been doing some recycling research lately. Adjusting to being eco-friendly in a new city is as much a challenge as adjusting to the city itself. Each city has its own recycling guidelines and Nashville's rules definitely take some getting used to, but I'm certainly working on it!

Lastly, I wanted to point you in the direction of one of my favorite blogs. I've been a longtime fan of The Farm Chicks (especially their fabulous ideas for fun little outdoor gatherings) and their blog is equally as fabulous. The ladies are big supporters of family owned businesses and buying local, which is inherently eco-friendly because it saves on transportation of goods from point A to point B (which is often across the country). Check them out soon!

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T14:08:00.001-04:00

Happy 4th of July! I wish you all a wonderful and safe holiday!

So Fresh!

2009-07-02T01:25:00.003-04:00

Leisure reading time is rare these days, but I like to take Sunday afternoons to sit out on the porch with a tall glass of sweet tea and a stack of magazines. The pile generally consists of the usual...Garden and Gun, Southern Living, Architectural Digest, you know the routine. This Sunday, there will be a new gem in the pack. Today, as I was headed to a tiny restaurant tucked inside one of our bookshoppes, I stumbled (quite literally) across Fresh Home magazine.

The cover was so enticing that I picked it up and couldn't put it down. Cover to cover, the periodical is loaded with terrific advice and how-to's and even includes a section on conserving energy! If your local bookseller carries the mag, pick up a copy for yourself.

The Green Project

2009-06-30T17:40:00.003-04:00

No matter where I live, Louisiana will always be home. I remember spending many weekends of my youth in New Orleans eating in the French Quarter, hanging out on Magazine Street and seeing the sights and sounds of the city. My favorite part of New Orleans has always been the architecture. Not surprisingly, I find myself mixing pieces of Louisiana architectural salvage into my own home. The Green Project has just made that easier and even more eco-friendly!

From their website:

The Green Project operates a warehouse store that resells high-quality, salvaged building materials at low cost to the community. The store is dedicated to helping the environment by reducing the amount of usable materials placed in landfills or disposed of improperly. You may bring reusable building materials to our warehouse store, or we can pick them up for a small fee.

The Green Project also supports others who salvage or deconstruct damaged or collapsed buildings by hand, in a way that saves between 45 and 70 percent of the materials. This preserves New Orleans' unique architectural history and benefits New Orleans' residents by returning their ruined building materials to use elsewhere in the city.

Next time you're in the market for building materials, consider shopping somewhere like The Green Project or Habitat's ReStore.

Recession-proofing Your Vacation

2009-06-24T23:49:00.005-04:00

This past weekend, my younger brother and sister came for a visit and we had an absolute blast! They were truly a delight to host and I can't wait for them to come visit again! I took them to see many of the traditional Nashville tourists spots plus a few off-the-beaten-path hidden gems.

With little sister outside of the Opry House. She is the tall blonde. I am the less tall (my preferred term) brunette. Poor RPD had to play photographer for much of the trip so he is not in the photo.

Are you still thinking about summer vacation ideas that are easy on the wallet and on the environment? The National Park Service is offering free entry into national parks across the country during the weekends of July 18/19 and August 15/16. Take some time and explore some of nature's greatest creations!

Take a look here.

A Classic Goes Organic

2009-06-20T23:53:00.004-04:00

I am back from all that has been crazy in life! I think I've recovered from working during CMA Fest. I spent most of my time running here and there with the artists I was working with and found myself with limited time to check email and no time to sit and blog. But now, I am back to a more routine schedule and will be posting more frequently.

It's offically hot enough to officially be summer weather and a long-time summer favorite has gone organic. The classic boat tote comes in a new eco-friendly organic cotton but still has the same timeless style we all know and love! The tote is a steal at $15.00

Get it here.

Hiatus.

2009-06-17T23:26:00.002-04:00

I have not fallen off the face of the planet as my lengthy absence would lead you to believe. I've been working like a crazy woman for a few weeks prepping and then working through CMA Fest here in Nashville. The festival, which was tons of fun, wrapped on Sunday and my fabulous siblings flew in last night for a weeklong visit. I am delighted to have them here, but because of their visit, my hiatus will be extended a while longer. I have fantastic things to tell you about upon my return and I look forward to blogging again soon. Hope you are all well!

In Praise of Billy Reid

2009-06-05T22:10:00.004-04:00

In a world full of green ideas and suggestions, it's becoming increasingly more difficult to tell what is realistic and what is greenwashing. Through all of the waves of eco-information, one thing holds true...buying quality IS buying green. If you buy quality (whether or not it's made of eco materials), you cut down on your need to purchase in the future which cuts down on resources used which cuts down on emissions which...well, you get the picture.

Billy Reid is quality. I finally got the chance to mosey on over to the Nashville store in the Hill Center and I was blown away. Immediately, I was greeted by friendly smiling faces and an aesthetic that made me want to take up residence in the store. Comfortable seating works seamlessly among the racks of classic clothing. In fact, it's almost enough to make you forget you're in a clothing store and instead make you feel like you're at a gathering in a classically styled home with friends. Drinks are served in real glassware with a vintage napkin and store patrons are invited to sit and chat for a while. Each piece in the Billy Reid collection is well thought out and built to withstand the changing tides of fashion. The pieces are certainly worth the investment!

If I had known then what I know now, a six-year-old me would have said, "When I grow up, I want to live in a Billy Reid store."

99 Cents Can Change the World

2009-05-31T21:26:00.005-04:00

For 99 cents, you can buy something at the dollar store...almost.

You can get something off of the dollar menu at McDonald's...almost.

You can buy a glass of lemonade from your neighborhood lemonade stand...if the kids in your neighborhood aren't trying to raise money to buy the newest video game.

99 cents doesn't buy much anymore, but it does buy a step towards a cure for breast cancer.

So many of us have been affected by breast cancer in one way or another. Whether it's you, your mom, your sister, your friend, your cousin, or maybe even one of the men in your life, chances are you have been touched by this disease. Of personal note, my grandmother is a breast cancer survivor so this cause is among those that I support fervently.

If you've got 99 cents and an interest in helping the cause, please download the song Pink Warrior by Candy Coburn. The song was co-written by a friend of mine and 100% of the artist and producer proceeds from the song go to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. It's available at Amazon and itunes.

Get it here on Amazon.
Get it here on itunes.

Welcoming the Heat

2009-05-31T16:53:00.003-04:00

After seemingly endless days of rain in Nashville, the weather is finally turning brighter and the past couple of days have been absolutely beautiful. I don't know about you, but weather like this makes me giddy for outdoor gatherings. Whip up some lemonade, throw some goodies on the grill and chill the ice cream for dessert...it's time to break out the shorts and flipflops! If you're going to have an outdoor shindig, you might as well use cute tableware. Amy Butler's eco-friendly table goods are just the ticket!

You can view the pieces here.

Amy's collection also includes some great 100% organic bedding. EcoSalon's article on the adorable pieces is here.

Now go enjoy the weather!!!

What I Love About...

2009-05-26T00:39:00.006-04:00

One of Nashville's hidden gems found its way into my life last night. A friend wanted to meet up for drinks and suggested The Greenhouse. Always one for embracing new adventures, I agreed and off we went. It was love at first sight, pure and simple.

The picket fence that sets out the front boundary of the bar is reminiscent of one you might find at the beach where you spent your childhood summers. After you enter the gate, you step into a whole 'nother world. The greenery is lush and the picnic tables and wrought iron patio furniture plentiful. The feeling you get is one of remoteness and freedom, so it's quite easy to forget that you're still in the city. The bar is housed inside an actual greenhouse. The cherry on top came after I ordered a mojito (one of the bar's specialty drinks) and the bartender said, "It'll be just a sec, I have to go pick the mint." Now, that's my kind of place!

The Farmers' Market

2009-05-19T20:00:00.003-04:00

If you're looking for a way to green your meals, both literally and figuratively, visit your local farmers' market. Buying food locally saves your food from being trucked across the state or across the country and it also guarantees that you know exactly where your food comes from and how it got there. I had lunch at the Nashville Farmers' Market yesterday and I had such a great time exploring all of the restaurants and merchants' booths filled with colorful produce and plants. I grabbed a shrimp po-boy from Nooley's (formerly of Baton Rouge) and a snowball at Fleur de Lis Flavors. Nothing like a taste of home in my new city!!! If you're looking for something to do this weekend or a great way to bring some local flavor into your meals, hop on over to your neighborhood farmers' market!

Sunday's Finest

2009-05-17T22:02:00.003-04:00

Whether it's Sunday morning in church, Tuesday evening at dinner, a Friday night date or Saturday brunch, every one of us has a need for attire that can only be categorized as "Sunday's Finest" and, much to my delight, more and more designers are getting in on the eco game. Take for example, this adorable dress from Kate:

This organic cotton frock would be precious alone or paired with a cardigan for so many different occasions. And guys, don't think the designers have forgotten about you! Luxury tie designer and Harvard student Baruch Shemtov will soon be launching a line of organic neckties in lots of fun colors and patterns!

Views from the Road...

2009-05-16T12:18:00.005-04:00

Here are a few pics from our recent road trip from Philly to Nashville. It is a beautiful stretch of country and I loved seeing every inch of it!

Pack a Lunch

2009-05-15T12:35:00.003-04:00

Do you remember your favorite lunchbox when you were little? I had a few different lunch containers, but my favorite was admittedly my bright orange New Kids on the Block lunchbox with matching thermos.

Packing a lunch for work or school is a great way to conserve resources. Buy locally at your neighborhood farmer's market and pack it in a cute and functional lunch tote, like one of these from VivaTerra:

They last longer than plasticware and save bunches of plastic and paper bags from the landfill. Make lunch fun again with a fancy lunchbox!

Images of My Youth: Part 1

2009-05-15T11:26:00.003-04:00

I've recently developed a renewed affinity for the images of my youth, so I've decided to post some of them here one by one. No links. No detailed explanation. Be your own detective and find out what they are if you don't already know. So here goes...

The Making of the Boat & Tote

2009-05-14T20:38:00.003-04:00

This is quite possibly the greatest bag in the world!

If you've ever wondered how the Bean Boat & Tote was made, be sure to check out a cool video of the making of the bags over at All Plaidout. View the post here.

Moving, Mom and Mother's Day

2009-05-14T19:20:00.005-04:00

It's been exactly one week since we left Philadelphia and already Nashville feels like home. I have to take a minute to be mushy and gushy and talk about how this would not have been possible without my mom. She flew up to Philly on Wednesday night and drove down with me on Thursday. 13 hours in the car seemed to fly by because we had so much fun! She stayed through the weekend to help set up everything in the new place and she made the transition such an easy one for all involved. So Mom, if you're reading this, thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I was super excited to see that the new place has low flow toilets and an energy conscious washer and dryer. On Saturday, I changed all the lightbulbs to CFLs and picked up a few plants for the entryway and the porch. The new place is getting eco-fied one step at a time!

Sunday afternoon, Mom and I headed to Mother's Day brunch at the Loews Vanderbilt. If you ever get the chance to have Sunday brunch in their restaurant, I highly recommend it. The food and the service are both A++!

Finally, in other news, if you have a prayer list or even if you don't, please keep my cousin's precious little angel in your thoughts. Emma Kate will be having heart surgery soon in Boston. Read more here.

Don't Walk in the Attic: A Cautionary Tale

2009-05-13T01:40:00.002-04:00

When I was small, every major rule was accompanied by a cautionary story that proved why the rule was not to be broken. I can remember going up to the attic with my dad and being allowed to play in the part of the attic that had been converted into usable space. Though the fluffy pink insulation was tempting, I knew never to walk on it. Why, you ask? Well, because if you walk on the insulation, you might just fall through the ceiling. The story went like this: When we moved from Memphis back to Baton Rouge, before you were born, the movers came to pack us and one of them was packing boxes in the attic and walked on the insulation. Before I knew it, there were two legs dangling through the ceiling right above my head! I don't know who was more startled, me or the man stuck in the ceiling!" My mom still loves telling that story. Much to her satisfaction, I never walked on the insulation for fear that my own two legs would be found hovering above someone in the den.

Fast forward 27 years. When the movers arrived to pack up the Philadelphia apartment to prepare for the trip down to Nashville, I was shocked to open the door and find the legendary Coco, the very same man who had fallen through my parents' ceiling when he was barely in his twenties. Coco and Charles, who was also present at the great ceiling fall-through and had to pull his coworker from the sheetrock or whatever it is that ceilings are made of, were almost as startled to see me as I was to meet them. The guys were terrific and in less than a day, the entire place was carefully packed and ready to be loaded. On Friday, when they arrived in Nashville, they were reunited with my mom who had come to help me drive down and set up the new place.

I'm not sure what gears of the world were turning to make such a thing happen, but I'm sure glad it worked out that way! I cannot say enough good things about Armstrong Relocation. Kevin, Tami, Charles and Coco went above and beyond to make my move as painless and easy as possible and I am so glad I used them. If you need movers, I give my wholehearted recommendation.

And just in case you're wondering, Coco didn't fall through the ceiling this time.

Checking In

2009-05-11T22:48:00.002-04:00

Hello from Nashville!!! I will post more on the move soon and tell you about the exciting events of the past few days, but I am finally getting the chance to turn in before 2 am so I am taking full advantage of it. I hope you are all well and look forward to getting back to a regular blogging schedule soon!

A Fond Farewell to the City of Brotherly Love

2009-05-04T19:07:00.008-04:00

Most of you know that I am a southern girl born and bred, but for the last 3 years, I have called Philadelphia home.

As of Thursday, I will no longer be a resident of the City of Brotherly Love. It has been a pleasure living here and I have created memories that will last a lifetime. I am sad to be leaving the friends that I've made in my time here and the colleagues with whom I've enjoyed working, but I am so excited to be starting a new chapter of my life. In just a couple of days, I will be resting my head in Music City USA. Those of you who are long-time readers probably recall that Nashville has a special place in my heart and I'm so glad to be able to be there on a more permanent basis. This move has been a long time in the making and now that it's finally here, I'm almost overwhelmed with emotion. Excitement, sadness, glee, nervousness, elation, exhaustion and as many other emotions as you can fit into one person...I'm feeling them all! I will be away from internet access for a few days, but can't wait to report on the move soon! Until then, I wish you all the best!

Happy Derby Day!!!

2009-05-02T14:30:00.003-04:00

In honor of Kentucky Derby 135, today's post is a link to Derby blogger Caroline Smith's post, "Green is the New Black" and you can check it out here.

Now grab yourself a mint julep, dahlin', and go enjoy the most exciting two minutes in sports!!!

Loomstate Comes to Target

2009-04-30T18:12:00.003-04:00

Perennial eco-favorite Loomstate has just made its products more affordable and more accessible. The Loomstate for Target collection is available here and at Target stores nationwide.

Thanks to LB for such a fabulous discovery!!!

A Tale of a LBD

2009-04-29T17:08:00.006-04:00

Twelve years ago, when I was in high school, I was a bridesmaid in the winter wedding of my cousin. The dress was a fabulous black floor-length number with a short black jacket atop it. The ensemble was lovely, but I had no idea what I would do with it post-wedding. It was so fantastic that, even though I had nowhere to wear it, it sat in the back of my closet for four years. Then, when I joined a sorority in college, I needed a black shift dress for preference round. Enter the bridesmaids dress. Our family tailor is amazing and with a few snips and trims, the fabulous floor-length evening gown had become a knee-skimming shift. In the last eight years, it has been worn with cardigans of all colors and sans cardigan as well. But always, I repeat always, with pearls (Wouldn't want to let Mama down, now would we?). The dress has seen parties, funerals, dinners, benefits and, most recently, a memorial service. I was honored by a request to do a reading at the service and I accepted, but immediately became riddled with nerves. When the big day rolled around, the dress that had been through so much with me was suddenly calming. So thanks to the dress, and almost an hour of pre-service rehearsal with V who made sure I could get through it without falling apart, I did. And so did the dress.

But there is an eco-spin to all of this. Instead of buying something new, look into your closet and see what can be modified to meet your needs. You never know...your new little black shift dress may be disguised as a formal gown.

A Most Fabulous Blog

2009-04-25T21:57:00.004-04:00

Haskell Harris, Associate Editor of Garden and Gun magazine, publishes a fabulous blog called Belle Decor. Recently, Ms. Harris posted about a friend of hers in New Orleans who has his own carpentry business. Matthew Thompson does a wonderful job of taking ordinary run of the mill pieces and turning them into decor statements. Take for example this reclaimed set of stadium seats:

Aren't those just fantastic???

The Silver Lining

2009-04-23T18:30:00.005-04:00

As I've gotten older, I've come to the realization that some days things just don't go my way. Yesterday was one of those days. My cell phone quit working (due to no fault of my own) and my computer died (possibly partly my fault, but maybe not). I had to purchase a new version of each. Then, on my 6 block walk home, the bottom fell out. The sky began to rain drops so hard that they hurt. And, of course, I had no umbrella. Once I got home and changed my soaking wet clothes and shoes, I sent my mom a text that said, "Today is not my day."

Fast forward to this afternoon. As I was listening to a presentation on the intricacies of family law (not my specialty, but interesting no less), a number I didn't recognize flashed on my new cellphone screen. And then it happened again. And again. Finally, the caller left a voicemail, which I checked at the conclusion of the presentation. What I heard made my day, not because of the misfortune conveyed in the beginning of the message, but because of the silver lining that came at the end.

Here's the message:
"Hi, it's mom. I dropped my cell phone in the toilet again. [she paused here as a buildup to the highlight of the message] But I didn't flush it this time!!!"

As of this evening, we each have a new phone and neither of us plans to drop it in the toilet. At least not today.

The Vatican Goes Eco

2009-04-20T22:48:00.003-04:00

The Vatican is going solar in a big way. The smallest country in the world recently announced that it intends to spend 660 million dollars to create what will effectively be Europe’s largest solar power plant. This massive 100 megawatt photovoltaic installation will provide enough energy to make the Vatican the first solar powered nation state in the world!

View the whole article here.

EcoManor

2009-04-14T23:56:00.003-04:00

When most people think eco-house, they think boxy and minimal. If you're like most people, prepare to have all of your eco-house expectations shattered. Meet the EcoManor.

The home of Laura and Rutherford Seydel is a beautiful showplace that's green from top to bottom. The EcoManor website even gives great links to the household and decor products that they used that are eco-friendly. Among the fabulously appointed rooms is a pink and green girl's bedroom. Talk about putting the green in pink and green!

Where Does the Other Sock Go?

2009-04-12T04:51:00.005-04:00

The construction of the Pyramids, the Bermuda Triangle, the disappearance of Amelia Earhart. These are indeed some of the world's greatest mysteries. But the mystery that trumps all of these is the missing sock. You know the one. You put pairs of socks into the dryer and when they're done, mysteriously, you're left with a single sock from one or more pairs that you put in. Instead of trashing the spare sock (if it's cute), consider making a plant cozy out of it. Just cut it down to size, put the sock around and over the edge of a cup, and voila!

What I Love About...

2009-04-11T07:13:00.004-04:00

If you're ever down in little old Baton Rouge, you simply must try Bistro Byronz. The precious little Government Street restaurant is the reincarnation (after a 20 year hiatus) of the legendary Byronz. You can view the menus here.

The decor is welcoming and it's the perfect place to meet friends for brunch or lunch or dinner or drinks. Try the Mint Julep Mojito. It's fabulous!

Eco-llegiate

2009-04-09T21:08:00.005-04:00

University-branded apparel has now entered the green scene!

School House is the brainchild of Rachel Weeks, a graduate of Duke University who wanted to bring ethically-sourced collegiate apparel to the world. She's already introduced Duke apparel and garb branded with other schools' logos is following quickly. As if fun new apparel designed wasn't enough, the factory workers who produce School House earn 2-3 times more than what factory workers down the road earn. Being planet-friendly isn't always about being organic or chemical free. Basic care and concern for our fellow man is also eco-friendly!

Check out the School House blog here.

If You're Crafty and You Know It, Clap Your Hands!

2009-04-07T20:58:00.005-04:00

For those of you residing in the NYC area, check out Purl Patchwork's book signing and workshop with green crafting author Betz White.

From Purl's blog:

Purl Patchwork is pleased and honored to host a workshop and book signing with artist and designer Betz White, author of Sewing Green, one of our favorite new craft books out this spring! Join us at Purl Patchwork (you can find a map to the shop here) on Saturday, April 18, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm for a special workshop taught by Betz.

Special thanks to Heather for the heads up on this fantastic book and event! Check out her blog here and her Etsy shoppe here.

10 Best Coastal Eco-Resorts

2009-04-05T21:11:00.002-04:00

Coastal Living just posted their 10 best coastal eco-resorts. Have a look here.

When Tourism Goes Eco

2009-04-05T20:48:00.004-04:00

Sometimes, when work is bogging me down and I have to look like I am doing something productive, I go on a mental vacation. I love to look at tourism websites and I was so excited when I checked Islamorada's site today and found that they're making strides towards being greener. Check this out:

"Five Sixes Taxi recently debuted 10 environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles as the first step in converting its entire fleet. Five Sixes is the first taxi company in Florida to roll out hybrids. The cab company's officials project that the new fuel-efficient vehicles will get about 38 miles per gallon in the city, compared to their previous vehicles' 12 to 13 miles per gallon, reducing their emissions factor by 80 percent. Future plans include replacing its other 13 sedans with hybrids, and replace its 23 seven-passenger Maxi Taxis when a suitable hybrid van becomes available."

And yes, they're pink! It would be great if more vacation destinations would make strides towards being eco-friendly. You can read the whole article here.

The Boat Shoe Goes Eco

2009-04-02T14:37:00.004-04:00

Finally, someone has created an eco-friendly boat shoe! Timberland's new Earthkeepers Classic 2-Eye Boat Shoe stands firmly on a recycled rubber sole. The boat shoe comes in two classic colors and claim to keep your feet comfy out on the water (or bopping around town) all day. Sadly, the shoe is currently only available for men but hopefully a version for women is in the works!
Earthkeepers boat shoes...Good for the planet, good for your sole.

Tag, You're It!

2009-03-30T14:30:00.004-04:00

Meg at Pink to Green has tagged me with this cute little questionnaire.

The rules:
1. Respond and rework. Answer the questions on your blog, replace one question you dislike with a question of your own invention; add a question of your own.
2. Tag eight other un-tagged people.

What is your current obsession? Getting fit and healthy for the summer.
Do you use canvas or plastic bags when you go shopping? Canvas
Do you nap a lot? Not nearly as much as I'd like to.
Who was the last person you hugged? A friend I hadn't seen in a while.
What’s for dinner? An avacado, lettuce and tomato sandwich on whole wheat bread and a gala apple.
What was the last thing you bought? Groceries
What are you listening to right now? Ingram Hill
What is your favorite weather? Warm spring weather (sunny and not too hot)
What’s on your bedside table? A stack of magazines and 2 books (Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes and The Bouviers by John Davis)
Say something to the person/s who tagged you. Meg, you're blog is fantastic and a great place to find all things green!
If you could have a house totally paid for, fully furnished anywhere in the world, where would you want it to be? Hmmmm, good question. Probably either New Orleans or Charleston.
Favorite vacation spot? Anywhere with a minimally crowded beach
Name the things you can’t live without. Family, friends and exercise.
Who is your biggest fashion influence? Probably Audrey Hepburn.
What is your favorite tea flavor? Sweet tea or peach tea...it's a tie.
What is your favorite book? I have a few: To Kill a Mockingbird, Catcher in the Rye, and The Ultimate Gift.
If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go? Charleston.
What did you want to become as a child? A rockstar.
What do you like better, e-mail or telephone calls? E-mail.
What is your favorite sport to play? Squash or cycling (even though you don't really play cycling)
What was your favorite concert you attended? James Taylor
What is your favorite flower? Pansies.

I'll tag others when I return this evening. Until then, I wish you all the best.

Addendum to Eco-Exercise

2009-03-29T16:34:00.004-04:00

I am, admittedly, behind the curve in the online world. In the last few hours, FitSugar has become one of my favorite websites. I was surprised to find that their article about the 7 Things you should have in your gym bag contained a number of eco-friendly suggestions. From a reusable BPA-free water bottle to an organic laundry bag to natural facial towelettes, FitSugar hits the mark with their suggestions. To add a cherry on top, there's even a preppy nod by way of a Vera Bradley mention. Hey, if you're going to store your gym ID somewhere, you might as well store it somewhere cute!

Check out the whole slideshow here.

Eco-Exercise

2009-03-29T13:29:00.005-04:00

Spring is here and it's time to get back outside and get some exercise. Running or walking outdoors is a great eco-friendly way to get your workout mojo going. If outdoor exercise isn't your thing or if there simply aren't enough hours in the day for you to fit in an outdoor workout, consider an eco-friendly indoor workout.

One of my favorite indoor workout tools was originally intended to be a winter substitute, but I've liked it so much that it's taken up permanent residence in the Eco-Prep house. If you're a cyclist, consider an indoor trainer that requires no additional energy other than what is produced by pedaling.

Because I come from a place where temperatures below 40 are highly unusual, I have a difficult time adjusting to winter up here in the north. Cycling or running outdoors during the chilly winters is pretty much out of the question. My indoor trainer has been a saving grace and has kept me on track with my cycling program.

Other great options include rowing machines or self-powered treadmills and elliptical machines.
For more eco-exercise tips, check out these links for GreenYour.com and Dummies.com.

Preppy Icon of the Day

2009-03-26T22:32:00.009-04:00

Today's preppy icon of the day is Tea Leoni. She's got classic style and is never afraid to go with what's tried and true. Check out the anchor necklace below!
This funny girl can hold her own against the A-list of the boys' comedy club and still look super cute doing it!
Tea's classic style even scored her a page in A Privileged Life. So today, we celebrate Tea Leoni as the Preppy Icon of the Day.

Cole Haan Goes Eco

2009-03-26T14:39:00.005-04:00

Since I started writing this blog, my friends have been like birddogs searching for green products. Rarely a day goes by without two or three emails or calls from friends who have found green goodies. Today, my super stylish friend ML found this fabulous Cole Haan tote made of sustainable materials.

The eco-friendly tote is made from natural recycled fabric with vegetable tanned leather and chrome-free leather trim. The tote is created from bionic yarn containing 30-60% fibers made from recycled plastic beverage bottles. Each tote reuses ten bottles worth of recycled plastic bottles. Get it here. Thanks, ML!!!

What Color is Your Ribbon?

2009-03-24T23:53:00.007-04:00

Not too long ago, a good friend of mine wrote and recorded a song called "Colors Say" about how the meaning of various colors changes throughout our lives. As children, pink, green and yellow mean innocent youthful things but as adults, those same colors represent fighting disease, global change and loved ones away at war. The song calls to mind the ribbons of assorted colors representing the gamut of worthy causes. I've worn ribbons in pink, yellow, red, purple and blue but I've recently added a teal ribbon in memory of a friend.

Wearing a colored ribbon isn't just about wearing the ribbon. It's about doing your part to create awareness for causes. If it's a medical cause you're passionate about, please encourage those you know and love to get regular checkups. My grandmother always prescribed an ounce of prevention. You have no idea how far it goes!

For the readers who run and live in the Philadelphia area, the Sandy Sprint (formerly the Teal Ribbon Run) is a great 5K. I will be running it this year and I would love to run with some fellow bloggers!

Channel Your Inner Martha

2009-03-23T17:15:00.004-04:00

EcoSalon has a great article on 10 clever ways to use leftover fabric.
I always have random pieces here and there that are too small to be put to regular use, but now I've got some great ideas on how to employ the scraps! See all ten ideas here.

Organic Madras

2009-03-22T15:39:00.005-04:00

I get really excited when I find old favorites created in eco-friendly fabrics. I just discovered these madras pieces and wanted to pass them along.
The Raquel Skirt:

The Puerto Shorts:

Both pieces are made from 100% organic cotton. The most comfortable fabric just got even more comfy!

Making a Case for Greener Luggage

2009-03-20T01:01:00.005-04:00

Heys Travel Goods has just come out with a new hard side suitcase. Ordinarily, I don't jump for joy over a new piece of luggage entering the market, but this one's a bit different. This hard side suitcase is made of 100% eco-friendly materials!

Heys has this to say about their product:
Why is the Eco Case a good choice?
* The shell is made of 100% recycled material and is 100% recyclable!
* A new blend of ABS gives the ECO CASE an elasticity effect similar to a rubber-band, the
shell won’t crack… ever!
* Heys ‘Better Life’ Warranty - 7 Year Worldwide Warranty
* It is the world’s first Eco-friendly Hard Side Case!

The case comes in 3 sizes and enough colors (including pink!) to make everyone happy. Find out where to get them here.

Sometimes New is Better (Off Ted)

2009-03-19T03:11:00.005-04:00

I don't usually like newness in television. I eschew most new tv shows, primarily on the grounds that every new tv show I like gets canceled. Tonight, I lifted my ban on watching television premieres for Better Off Ted. I've been excited about the show since I started hearing mumbles about it a few months and I think it might just be my new favorite sitcom!

Jay Harrington is great as morally conscious Ted and Portia de Rossi's Veronica is a fantastic combination of Lindsay Bluth and Nell Porter. If you are a fan of dry humor from shows like Arrested Development, you'll probably enjoy Better Off Ted too. After all, sometimes new really is better!

Tender Loving Care(n)

2009-03-17T22:07:00.002-04:00

Have you ever thought that it would be so great to be able to get all of your organic products in one spot? Now you can. In searching for evanhealy moisturizer, I recently discovered Caren. Caren is a great source for all sorts of natural and organic products (skin, hair, etc.) for both guys and gals. In addition to all of the evanhealy products I use, I also picked up some products from the Skin line which is fantastic. It's light and easy on the skin. Even the most sensitive of skin (mine included) will love the products you can get from Caren. They're also really nice too! And, as you know, good customer service goes quite far with me.

Free Shipping from Three Chickadees

2009-03-16T18:06:00.003-04:00

When I travel, there are a few things I always take along. Without fail, my travel bag will contain Evan Healy moisturizer, the most recent issue of Real Simple (unless I've already read it too many times) and my Three Chickadees belt in Fantastical Paisley print. The belt is so versatile, it matches just about everything. If you've not yet seen the Three Chickadees site, head over now and give it a look!

Three Chickadees is offering free shipping through Saturday, March 21. Sign up for their mailing list and you'll get all the promotional codes sent right to your inbox!

What I Love About...

2009-03-16T13:36:00.007-04:00

Today, I'm starting a new set of posts called "What I Love About..." Whenever I discover something I love so much that I simply have to share, I'll post it in a "What I Love About..." post. The inaugural WILA post is What I Love About... Hilton Suites Brentwood. Mom and I met up for the weekend in Nashville and stayed at this fantastic hotel. It's tiny by city standards, standing only 4 floors high but still, its charm and quaintness outweigh its small size. The beds are super comfortable and mom and I agreed that we slept better in those beds than we had in a long time in our own beds. (Perhaps I should order the bedding from Hilton!) The staff is so kind and helpful and I highly recommend this hotel if you're in the area.

The hotel is making strides towards being green. Their initiatives include the option of reusing towels and changing bed linens every other day.

Eco Alma Mater

2009-03-11T12:11:00.008-04:00

The coupon from my last post is also accepted at A-List Furniture and Decor and Accents in the Garden.

They have some great eco-friendly college needlepoint pillows that are 100% handmade and dyed with 100% vegetable dye. Sadly, they don't have some schools (including my beloved LSU), but if you cut your tailgating teeth at Alabama, UGA, Tennessee or Auburn, you're in luck!

More Sales on Sails

2009-03-11T11:54:00.005-04:00

The good things in life are always better when they're shared, so I decided I'd share with you the coupon I found in my inbox this morning. Newport Nautical Decor is having a 15% off sale. That's right, 15% off of EVERYTHING in the store. Use coupon code "marchsale" when checking out. The coupon is valid until March 15, 2009. They've got some cute items like this anchor pillow.

Sale on Sailcloth

2009-03-10T22:42:00.004-04:00

VivaTerra just put their sailcloth bags (in messenger and tote styles) on sale! And let's be real, who doesn't love a sale????

Changes are Afoot

2009-03-09T10:46:00.006-04:00

With the changing of the seasons comes other changes as well. I'm beginning to transition my wardrobe from cold-weather clothing to warmer-weather clothing (though family and friends farther south did this weeks ago), I'm starting to run outside again (I refuse to run in the cold because the sinus effects just aren't worth it), I'm getting back on a healthier eating plan, and I'm changing up the blog a bit. Nothing major, just some tweaks here and there. You may have noticed the new background. I think it's much spunkier than the solid background that came before it. I'm also working on a new header which should be up in a week or so. So, in summation, I plan to celebrate the warmth with these changes and perhaps even a little dance!

Branch-ing Out

2009-03-08T10:12:00.007-04:00

Though the organic cotton bar towels I love are no longer available from Branch Handmade, there are some other great things in the fun little Etsy store.

The nautical prints are available on an assortment of clothing and textile items, like this tshirt:

Branch Handmade also has great hand-printed pillowcases in nautical and equestrian designs:

What a great way to add some handmade character to your home or your closet!

Welcome Back Gant!

2009-03-05T19:12:00.006-05:00

I have a love-hate relationship with my mailbox. First of all, it is far too small. Nothing larger than 4 inches wide will fit in the box. Secondly, it is far too deep. Things get lost in the bottom of the box (which opens from the top) causing an assortment of problems. In spite of the trials and tribulations of mail retrieval in my building, I do love getting the mail every day. Today, I successfully pulled all of the mail out of the tiny box without my arm getting stuck. The challenge was certainly worth the reward when I realized that Gant Magazine arrived today! Part catalog, part magazine, Gant Magazine is aesthetically pleasing from beginning to end. Get your own today at the Gant website! If you're the type that looks once and throws magazines and catalogs out, the site offers two planet-friendly options. You can download the magazine to your computer or you can look at it on the website.

Gant, the all-American clothing company (based out of Sweden, oddly enough), was on hiatus for a while, but the classic brand is back and in a big way!

The Spring/Summer collection has plenty of old favorites and some new additions. To boot, Gant is debuting a line of organic bedding! Three cheers for old favorites!!!

Images of Home

2009-03-04T14:11:00.017-05:00

When I got back to the city from my all-too-short trip to visit my family, my neighbor and I had a long discussion about what we missed most about our respective homes. He said he missed the hustle and bustle of New York City and the ability to be just about anywhere in the city in a jiffy via the subway system. Our subway system only runs in two straight lines, so I completely understand his frustration with it. He also said that he missed pizza at 2 am and he even went so far as to suggest that he may even miss his long-gone dorm days at Columbia.

He is enamored with all things southern and has called me his Scarlett O'Hara since we met shortly after I moved here three years ago. As I started my list, I noticed him taking some notes. When I asked what he was doing, he laughed and said he wanted to sample southern culture so he planned to order some of the things I had suggested. Together, we compiled a list of easily accessible Louisiana goodies and I thought I should share some of it with y'all! Click on the links to go directly to the websites.

Perlis crawfish polo:
Note: I wear a small to medium in women's clothing but I can fit into an XL in the youth polo. Save yourself a few bucks!

Zapp's potato chips:
All of the flavors are tasty, but the Voodoo Gumbo is simply to die for!

Pat O'Brien's hurricanes:
You'll have to mix them yourself, but they're still just as tasty!

Anything by Henry Gray:
The solo works of Henry Gray are not to be missed. He's also been playing piano on recordings since 1953 with legends such as Junior Wells, Bo Diddley and Howlin' Wolf. Mr. Gray is as sweet and humble as he is talented. He still plays regularly around Baton Rouge and if you ask nicely, he'll play your favorite song.

Gambino's King Cake:
Every year, Gambino's ships their legendary Mardi Gras king cakes all over the world. I recommend you get one next year!

And the things you can't buy online, but you should definitely experience if you visit Louisiana: Acme Oyster House, Saturday night in Tiger Stadium, Louisiana Art and Science Museum (I worked there in graduate school and it is a great place to visit), Red Stick Farmers Market and Main Street Market, The Chimes, and Circa 1957, just to name a few.

If you happen to be headed to (or through) Baton Rouge, here's 225 Magazine's list of 225 things to do in Baton Rouge. Check it out!

Bamboo Luxury...on Paper

2009-03-04T13:28:00.004-05:00

It seems as though everyone I know is in the process of planning a wedding or getting ready to have a baby. I am elated at the fact that several of my friends have expressed interest in adding eco-friendly touches to their weddings/baby arrivals. Last night as I was searching for eco-friendly wedding and baby announcements, I came across Smock's fabulous bamboo collection.

From their website:

We're proud to be the first print shop in the U.S. to offer printing on a luxury bamboo paper.

What is our bamboo paper like? It's extremely soft, luxuriously thick, and elegantly textured. It's also perfect for letterpress. Essentially, imagine the highest quality cotton paper. Now imagine something even prettier and without the pesticides used in cotton production.

They also have a social stationery collection which is equally as fantastic. If you are in the market for new stationery, Smock is definitely worth a look!

Greener Golf

2009-03-01T20:23:00.004-05:00

Have you ever wondered if landfills possess potential beyond just being collection zones for waste? Landfills can be sources of energy when the methane gas let off by decomposing garbage is captured and used it to generate energy. They can also be reused once the garbage has decomposed. Perhaps the best (and most aesthetically pleasant) use of landfills is the transformation of these blights into golf courses.

Mountain Gate CC, Los Angeles

From Brownfield Golf:

Completed in 1975, the Mountain Gate Country Club is recognized as one of the most successful landfill golf courses in the United States. What was once a Los Angeles County solid waste landfill is now an upscale, private country club surrounded by million dollar homes with exquisite views of golf holes meandering through the canyons below.

The 27-hole golf course was constructed over solid waste deposited in 8 canyons to depths in excess of 200 feet. Over the years, waste has decomposed resulting in settlement of the land surface. Mountain Gate maintenance personnel report settlement has exceeded 70 feet in some areas, necessitating the repair of irrigation and drainage systems and the re-grading of golf course features. Although a nuisance, some club members appreciate the continuous changes of golf course features as an added challenge to their game.

Preppy Icon of the Day

2009-03-01T17:13:00.008-05:00

After having a bit of a movie marathon last night (I returned home completely exhausted from my trip and was fairly incapable of doing anything else), I realized I had yet to use perennial preppy favorite Rob Lowe as a Preppy Icon of the Day. So I now present to you, Rob Lowe as Preppy Icon of the Day.

Rob has done tv and movies, funny and serious, wacky and straightlaced, but ever true to his preppy roots, he always ends up back in a polo.

From his days as a prep school prettyboy in Class and Oxford Blues, to his most recent adventures in politics in The West Wing and Brothers and Sisters, Rob Lowe has certainly inspired his share of viewers to toss on a tie and oxford.

So here's to Rob Lowe, today's Preppy Icon of the Day.

Inching Towards Spring

2009-02-28T23:51:00.010-05:00

Spring is by far my favorite season and it is right around the corner! It's time to grab some eco-friendly spring staples. Swing by your local secondhand shoppe, participate in a springtime clothing swap with friends, or pickup some seasonal goodies in planet-friendly fabrics.

For the ladies:

Velvet's Hanazia Dress (note: the dress is not made of velvet, but by a company called Velvet) is the perfect day-to-night dress that will get you from work to evening activities.

Pair it with some Bonannos and an eco-friendly tote and you're ready to go!

And for the gents:

Try on Loomstate's organic cotton chino shorts.

And what says "Welcome to spring" more than a white button up oxford in comfortable hemp and cotton?

Roll up the sleeves, toss on a cap or some sunglasses, and you're ready for a barbecue!

Fresh Off the Presses

2009-02-28T23:29:00.002-05:00

Greetings all! I've just returned from a fun little trip to visit the family, but I wanted to alert you to Josh Dorfmann's new book, The Lazy Environmentalist on a Budget. It's full of fantastic tips to help you green up AND save you a little money.

Happy reading!

Greening by Adopting a Pet? You Bet!

2009-02-17T01:30:00.004-05:00

So sorry for the lack of regular posts, but it's been very busy around our house lately. Don't worry though, it's been a good busy. Soon, life will go back to normal and I'll have more time to post more frequently. As most of the regular readers know, I'm a huge proponent of pet adoption. Harper and Salinger are both adoptees and they make our house a happy place. If you're considering getting a pet, consider adoption. Adopting a pet is green because it employees the basic green tenets of reduce, reuse, recycle (in a very rudimentary sense). By adopting a pet that needs a home, you're cutting down on the number of animals in shelters and therefore cutting down on the resources necessary to sustain these organizations. Petfinder.com has listings for all sorts of pets (from reptiles to barnyard animals and everything in between) from all across the country. So if you're looking for the perfect addition to your preppy plaid couch or a pal to ride along in your Volvo, you're guaranteed to find a forever friend through any of the many adoption services available. And just think, you'll finally have an excuse to buy that Vineyard Vines dog collar you've had your eye on!

Some friends of mine have a great organization set up in Nashville called Camp Chaos 37206. Visit their website here. They do fantastic work and I throw my support behind them 100%! Isn't life happier when you share your love? Get happy, adopt!

Green is the Color of Love

2009-02-14T00:09:00.001-05:00

Photo by Mesut Ilgim

Wondering how to green your Valentine's Day? Check out these tips from Grist.

Meanwhile, Back in Nashville...

2009-02-09T14:01:00.003-05:00

RPD and I met up in Nashville this past weekend and we did the usual rotation...Musician's Hall of Fame, The Country Music Hall of Fame, Pancake Pantry, The Charlie Daniels Museum, The Pie Wagon, Loveless Cafe, Printers Alley, and the all-too-famous "Buy one, get two free" sale at one of the boot shops on Broadway.

But the highlight of our trip was our visit to The Green Wagon , the precious little store I mentioned in a blog post a while back.

We got to browse the store and chat a bit with Jen, the owner. I can't wait to get back and do some more shopping at The Green Wagon!!!

Crying Crocodile Tears

2009-02-03T15:39:00.005-05:00

As I'm sure most of you have already heard, two of my favorite publications are shutting down production. Green 'zine Plenty is closing its doors.

Perhaps even sadder is the end of Domino.

Now I guess I will have to read People when I fly...just like everyone else.

I've Been Tagged

2009-01-29T20:44:00.004-05:00

I've been tagged by Pink Julep, who has a fantastic little blog, so go check it out. Since this has been a fairly hectic week work-wise, my posting abilities have been limited, but I figured since I've never done one of these on my blog, I'd take a little break and fill this one out. I'm not tagging anyone just yet, look for that to come soon.

Step 1: respond and rework—answer the questions on your own blog, replace one question that you dislike with a question of your own invention, add one more question of your own.

Step 2: tag—eight other un-tagged people.

Make a list of things you can see without getting up:
A stack of eco-books (for blog research, of course), a stack of backissues of Domino, two cats, my laptop, the across-the-street neighbor's giant energy sucking television (on which he spends endless hours playing Guitar Hero).

Favorite football team:
LSU Tigers

What are you wearing now?
Jeans and a white button up shirt.

What color is your bedroom?
White, we're not allowed to paint.

What’s the last thing you read/are currently reading?
Currently reading Twyla Tharp's The Creative Habit

What was the last movie you saw?
The Last Waltz.

What’s your current obsession/addiction?
Hmm, my initial inclination is to say "going green" but I would be remiss if I didn't also add discovering new music.

What was the last thing you said aloud?
I asked the cats if they were hungry.

What websites do you always visit when you go online? Treehugger.com, Ecorazzi.com, Planetgreen.com

What was the last thing you bought?
A haircut for myself.

What are you listening to right now?
A friend's newest cd.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?
I'd like to be able to fly. I think that'd be kind of neat.

What is your favorite weather, and why?
Sunny and cool. It's the best weather for walking around in the city.

What time do you usually get up?
9:00 am (I am lucky to work in an industry that doesn't wake up too early)

What is your most challenging goal right now?
Figuring out how to green our upcoming move.

Say something to the person who tagged you:
Thanks so much for the tag, Pink Julep. I look forward to keeping up with your blog.

If you could have a house–totally paid for, fully furnished–anywhere in the world, where would you want it to be?
Nashville

Favorite vacation spot?
Home to Louisiana

What is your favorite children’s book?
Goodnight Moon

Name one thing you just can’t resist no matter how bad it is for you:
Mac and cheese

Favorite hair product?
Burt's Bees avocado pre-shampoo hair treatment

What was the first tape or cd you ever bought yourself?
I don't even remember. Probably something teeny-bopperish.

Skirting the Issue

2009-01-21T13:43:00.004-05:00

For a long while, it seemed as though eco-fashion came in only two varieties: trendy and casual. Now, more and more companies are coming out with classic pieces. Take for instance Sublet's Beylah pencil skirt.

This would be a great piece for work. Pair it with a button up and a pair of classic black heels and you're good to go!

Eco-Golf

2009-01-20T21:01:00.004-05:00

I worry a lot about my own personal impact on the environment. I try to "green" all of my day to day activities like using a Sigg water bottle, taking shorter showers, using biodegradable bath products, recycling, and the like. Even still, I'm left with a great deal of concern about my extracurricular activities. Running and cycling don't pose too much of a problem to the planet, but what about sporting activities that require somewhat disposable equipment? I like to play golf and by "play golf", I mean I like to go to the golf course and swing fervently at the ball (usually missing or sending it into an adjacent patch of trees, thereby losing the ball). Now, I can feel a little better about my because several companies have started making biodegradable golf balls and tees.

If you enjoy golf too, snap up some of these eco-golf goodies. Now, you can look cute in your pink polo and madras shorts AND do less harm to the environment!

Check out Eco Golf and Eco Golf Balls.

Philadelphia Home Show 2009

2009-01-19T00:40:00.007-05:00

I had the pleasure of attending the Philadelphia Home Show today. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of eco-friendly booths in the Convention Center. My favorite booth was Strictly Bamboo which featured 100% bamboo sheets and towels. These were by far the softest sheets and towels I have ever touched in my life! Bamboo is a great sheet/towel option because it's naturally anti-microbial and antibacterial. Good for your body, good for your health!

Another highlight was the Gerhard's Appliances booth where this fun teal Eloctrolux washer and dryer were on display. I spent about 20 minutes playing with all of the neat energy and water saving features!

I also got to check out the Swift Microfiber (a chemical-free cleaning option), Touch of Purple cleaner (an all-natural cleaner/polish that you can use on jewelry, boats, glass, and whole bunch of other things), Solatube (skylight alternative that cuts down on heat from sunlight), EnviroTek green finishing systems (environmentally friendly basement/garage/bonus room finishing), and East Coast Power Savers (a tiny little plug-in that reduces power surges and spikes). There were lots of other green booths and a contest where you can win a $300 gift card just for voting for your favorite green product at the show. The Philadelphia Home Show runs through January 25.

Going Green for Dummies

2009-01-17T02:07:00.003-05:00

If you're interested in really easy tips for going green (or green building and remodeling), swing by your local Target and pick up pocket-sized copies of these two books from their dollar section:

In the Trenches

2009-01-16T23:45:00.005-05:00

VivaTerra's Organic Cotton Hooded Trench is on sale right now. It comes in two practical colors and the bracelet-length sleeves are adorable! This would be a great right-now coat for the folks living in warmer climates or save-it-for-spring coat for those of us experiencing more frigid temperatures!

Try a B&B for R&R

2009-01-16T17:48:00.005-05:00

Sometimes we all need a break. Take a weekend and hit a bed and breakfast near you, or take a longer vacation to a B&B somewhere you've always wanted to visit. BnBfinder.com has a great listing of eco-friendly bed and breakfasts all across the country. They've also got a list of Green Getaways that they recommend.

When Fashion Becomes Decor

2009-01-14T23:35:00.004-05:00

I've always thought there was a direct correlation between how a person dresses their house and how they dress themselves. Designer Mary McDonald proves my point in this month's Domino Magazine. I love her boldly preppy den!

If you want to put some preppy pop in your own den and you want to do it with eco-panache, consider using low- or no-VOC paints and secondhand or sustainable furnishings.

In Case You Were Wondering...

2009-01-14T13:18:00.004-05:00

If you've been pondering about whatever happened to those adorable dollhouse Bean boots I blogged about, wonder no longer. They have a wonderful home...with my mother. After reading about them on my blog, she just had to have them! When I was really young, she painstakingly made a dollhouse that was a replica of our house. Even the doormat on the front steps was just like ours. The petite Bean boots are happily resting in the dollhouse next to the petite brown leather cowboy boots that were added during the early stages of the dollhouse in honor of my dad. I snuck a peak while I was home and the Bean boots are SO precious! Here's to tiny versions of the things we love!

Free Green! Free Green!

2009-01-13T11:31:00.006-05:00

Are you thinking about building a new house? Or maybe remodeling the old one? For so long, "green" houses have been ultra modern loft-style homes which work for some people, but the prep in all of us longs for a cottage or a bungalow or a Colonial or a Cape Cod style house. Free Green to the rescue! Free Green offers house plans of all varieties for free (that's right, free!) and you can customize any of the plans available on the website to your specifications.

The Comfortable Cape Plan

Check out the Free Green blog to learn about green building and watch the progress of a green house as it is being built here. The Go Green Now section is also great and offers tips on what you can do now to make your life a little bit greener.

Nashville + Going Green = A Really Happy Eco-Prep!

2009-01-12T11:04:00.008-05:00

I love Nashville like I've never loved another city. As I've mentioned a couple of times, I recently spent a couple of months working in Nashville and will be moving back in the not too distant future. It's just such a charming city! But now, it's getting even better! I was so excited when I opened my inbox this morning and found the following information in an email from a friend:

Nashville's First Green General Store to Open in January

Two years ago in Tucson Arizona, Jen Casale found herself driving all over the city (in her 1982 Mercedes station wagon that runs on waste vegetable oil) to shop at different stores to gather eco-friendly products she could use at home. One night after one too many red lights, she realized that a one stop earth friendly shop was desperately needed. Several years of planning later, Jen's vision of a "green" general store evolved into what will soon be The Green Wagon, a cozy yet comprehensive retail collection of environmentally friendly home necessities. Scheduled to open on Friday, January 16, 2009, The Green Wagon is nestled in the heart of historic Sylvan Park in Nashville at 4429 Murphy Road and will be open 7 days a week from 10am – 7pm. Jen Casale is passionate about making "green" shopping easy and practical for customers. The Green Wagon's mission is "To assist communities in reducing our collective carbon footprint by making environmentally friendly products accessible and affordable."

The Green Wagon will house a classic collection of general store merchandise, with everything from cleaning supplies to clothing to shampoo to mattresses. The store will feature a "refilling station" where customers can refill their bottles with certain products at a discounted price, instead of buying new containers. A large portion of the products in The Green Wagon inventory are made locally, therefore reducing the business' and customers' carbon footprint that would normally occur during the shipping process. Since the notion of "green" is relatively new and somewhat undefined, Jen uses a standardized assessment that will evaluate products based on their environmental footprint across the product's lifecycle stages. This standard purchasing process will give The Green Wagon customers peace of mind and allow them the freedom to walk in and feel good about any item they purchase. The Green Wagon hopes that defining its standards of "green" will simplify and enhance the shopping experience for customers.

For more information, click here. Next time you're in Nashville, stop by and pick up some green goodies for yourself!

Denim Therapy

2009-01-11T15:14:00.008-05:00

Let's face it, sometimes you fall in love with a pair of jeans the way you fall in love with a puppy. You love them, you wear them as soon as they come out of the laundry, they become almost part of you. Trust me, I know, it happened to me. I bought a pair of jeans when I was a sophomore in college that still, to this day, hold a special place in my heart. They weren't flashy, they weren't designer, but they were comfortable. Basic bootcut jeans. I wore them frequently with everything from tshirts to polos to oxfords to dressy tops. And then the inevitable happened. They became holey jeans. But not in the cool holey places, not on the knee or by the pockets or anywhere on the leg. They did not become rockstar jeans. They became holey in a region where even the mention would make my grandmother would blush. I was devastated. Something inside me told me to hang on to them so I put them in the back of the drawer, all the while hoping for a miracle to come about, a miracle that would allow jeans to be magically repaired.

Meet the miracle!

Denim Therapy Denim Repair

Here's their process:

We have reunited thousands with their favorite jeans and we know we can help you too. Its simple:

1. sign up for denim therapy (its free!)
2. ship us your jeans
3. we'll give you an estimate
4. we apply therapy (only if you still want us to)
5. you are back in your favorite jeans

The proof is in the pudding. Here's the before:

And the after:

Now you can hang on to your favorite jeans for a while longer!

The Eco-Prep Medicine Cabinet

2009-01-10T11:02:00.005-05:00

Because most of my friends and family know about this blog, I get asked fairly frequently about which products I use. I decided I'd go ahead and share my product choices with everyone. I don't wear much makeup because I have super sensitive skin, so I'll share with you the arsenal of other products that have found a home in my bathroom. (Click on the links below to learn more about each product.)

Jason Tea Tree Shampoo, Kiss My Face Cool Mint Moisture Shave Cream, Weleda Foot Balm, Badger Sore Muscle Rub, Badger Headache Soother, Burt's Bees Radiance Eye Cream, Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer, Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, Evan Healy Blue Chamomile Day Moisturizer, Evan Healy Green Tea Mask, Evan Healy Cleansing Milk, Juice Beauty Hydrating Mist, Alba Tea Tree Deodarant, Recycline Preserve Toothbrush, Tom's of Maine Toothpaste

The Dish on Repurposed Dinnerware

2009-01-09T11:50:00.003-05:00

Sarah Cihat's line of dishware could not be more fab! She's taken the concept of reusing and repurposing to a whole new level...CHIC! The plate below is just one example of her amazing work. Check out the rest of the collection at her website.

Recycling the Tree

2009-01-08T19:10:00.004-05:00

So the holiday season has come and gone and now you're probably left with an ornamentless (and likely brittle) tree. If you're wondering what you can do with it to lessen the impact on the environment, read on.

Plenty Magazine has a terrific article on recycling your Christmas tree. Read it here. Some suggestions include making it into mulch or sending it to your local Christmas tree recycling program. Just make sure you take the lights off first!

The Polo Goes Eco

2009-01-07T13:32:00.003-05:00

Patagonia's Polo Shirt for men is made from organic cotton and garnered outstanding reviews, both from customers and from Evo. The shirt comes in a plethora of colors and prices range from $30 (for discontinued colors) to $55.

So fellas, if one of your resolutions was to go green this year, here's a great way to start!

Getting the Boot

2009-01-06T11:48:00.008-05:00

Fashion traditionalists have long thought that there are style boundaries which simply should not be crossed. For example, there is a school of thought that says you should never wear a polo shirt with cowboy boots. My reply? Give me a break! Maybe it's because I was raised in the south. Maybe it's because I worked for a while in Nashville. Maybe it's because I subscribe to the school of thought that says "wear it if you love it." Ralph Lauren feels the same. Read his opinions on the matter of mixing and matching styles (specifically preppy and western) in this article.

**Photo from Vanity Fair

If you're like me and occasionally like to mix 'n' match to change the wardrobe up a bit, try mixing things up in an eco-friendly fashion. This goes for guys and gals. Wear that old favorite oxford or polo with your favorite leather belt from way back when (sans giant buckle...you have to draw the line somewhere!). Pair it with some eco jeans (once more, I offer a plug for Levi's Eco line because I can't get enough of them!!!) and a pair of vintage cowboy boots. I have about 15 pairs of vintage boots, but my favorite pair by far is my Justin boots in cognac-colored suede. They have a slightly pointed toe which gives them just a little bit of edge.

**This is just a sample of vintage boots, these are not my actual boots. I sure wish they were, though.

If you want to try the vintage boot look but don't want to invest a ton of money, thrift stores, shopgoodwill.com or ebay are great places to start. If you're more interested in getting boots from someone who knows vintage, stop by Sputnik Ranch on Magazine Street in New Orleans or Katy K's in Nashville.

Preppy (and Green!) Icon of the Day

2009-01-06T11:25:00.006-05:00

Today's Preppy Icon of the Day is Kelly Rutherford.

In addition to being preppy, Kelly, who stars on the CW's Gossip Girl, is also uber green. In fact, she's on the current cover of Positively Green magazine.

Sprig has a great video interview of Kelly talking about her eco-friendly lifestyle. Not surprisingly, Kelly is wearing a super preppy twinset. Presh! View the video here.

Stealing One from the Boys

2009-01-03T17:13:00.006-05:00

Ordinarily, I go for fitted pieces with a feminine flair, but some days just call for something more comfortable. If you've ever lived (or wanted to live) on or near a farm or ranch, these shirts are for you. Sundance, one of my favorite catalogs, is currently having a sale on all of the pieces in the outlet section of their website and you can snag these two great and enduring shirts for a steal of a deal!

The Poplin Boyfriend Shirt:

The Femme Chambray Shirt:

Pair 'em with your favorite pair of eco-denim and a killer pair of vintage cowboy boots and you've got yourself an outfit!

EcoSalon, Serena & Lily Get Green and What Type of Green are You?

2008-12-28T23:14:00.004-05:00

There are lots of items on today's agenda. I am so excited to have discovered EcoSalon through an offshoot link from Viva Terra. What a delightful blog! The site really does have something for everybody, so head on over and give them a look.

I also wanted to alert you to two other fun pieces of info (both gathered from EcoSalon...I am LOVING the site!). First, Serena & Lily, one of my favorite retailers for cute bedding and furnishings for children and adults, has added some organic pieces to their collection. View the EcoSalon article here.

Also, marketing researchers have developed a spectrum for determining a person's "green category" and, though I disagree that there are only four types of greenness (perhaps six or seven would be more appropriate), it is a pretty interesting read. You can view the article here.

And with that, I am off to eat leftover cherry pie. Shh, don't tell my trainer.

Santa Reads Eco-Prep

2008-12-28T00:34:00.005-05:00

Firstly, I offer my most sincere apologies for the lack of posts over the past week and a half. Things have been quite busy around here with the holiday and all. If I've learned one thing from authoring this daily (or not-so-daily) musing, it's that Santa reads blogs. Not surprisingly, many eco-goodies were under our tree this year. For JMD, I found a fantastic bracelet made from recycled shoe leather. After I went on and on about how much I loved the bracelet, I received one in return. Fancy that. When I find a website where the bracelets can be purchased, I'll post the link. Until then, you'll have to trust me, they're fabulous! I also received a Recycline toothbrush and some other eco-products in my stocking. I collect dishware from schools and clubs, so I was delighted to open a box containing platters, bowls, and plates with lovely insignia from an assortment of institutions.

The largest box under the tree held a pair of antlers carved from wood. They're from my favorite eco-retailer, Viva Terra. I can't wait to find a fun place to hang these (in homage to Hollister Hovey's divine decorating sensibilities, most definitely)!

I hope you all had a fantastic holiday (whichever you celebrate) and that you are all planning exciting New Year festivities. As for us, we'll be going to a fancy dinner downtown and then rushing home to watch the Tigers play in the Chick-fil-A Bowl (Could they not come up with a more interesting title?). Until later, may life bestow upon you peace and laughter.

Rave Review: Levi's Eco Jeans

2008-12-23T17:16:00.005-05:00

Back in October, I announced that I wanted a pair of Levi's Eco jeans in the mid-rise bootcut style. Though I had vowed not to buy anything for myself until after the first of the year, I snagged a pair of these fabulous jeans at Marshall's on sale for $12.99 because the size had been mismarked. To say that I love them is an understatement. They are SO comfortable! I HIGHLY recommend them!!!

Brand Recognition: Turk+Taylor

2008-12-17T13:56:00.004-05:00

Usually, I share individual pieces from eco-fashion designers, but today, I want to let you in on an entire line. Turk+Taylor is a charming line of eco-friendly pieces for ladies and gents. Their fall collection holds strong with deeper autumnal colors, while spring ushers in bright colors and plenty of patterns.

Images: Turk+Taylor.

Presidential Preppiness

2008-12-17T13:29:00.006-05:00

GQ's website has an excellent article today about the style of our country's leaders. Not surprisingly, most of the highlighted pieces are preppy. Some examples are JFK's Topsider sneakers and khakis, W's aviator sunglasses, The Gipper's denim work shirt, and Ike's golfing cardigan and newsboy cap.

View the article here.

The LBD

2008-12-15T20:33:00.004-05:00

If you are like me and you're still looking for a party dress for your Christmas and New Years parties, here are two more you might like. They're from eco-fashion house Loyale. You can never go wrong with the LBD!

The Tulare dress:

The Elsamere dress:

Fancy it up with some pearls and snazzy shoes (and a pashmina if you live in a cooler climate) and you're ready to dance into the night at any party!

Green Cleaning

2008-12-15T20:09:00.003-05:00

If you are hosting guests this holiday season and you want your house to be sparkling clean, consider using eco-friendly cleaning products. Here are a few good options:

Begley's Best is made from plant-based materials and is great for your all-purpose cleaning needs.

And for polishing the furniture, try Daddy Van's furniture polish, made of beeswax.

Preppy Icon of the Day

2008-12-15T00:07:00.006-05:00

Robert Redford oozes cool. He's an icon for the guys and a heartthrob for the ladies. Mr. Redford gets the honor of being today's Preppy Icon of the Day for his ability to seamlessly combine preppy, cowboy and cool. He also gets major points for being uber-green. His Sundance brand is one of the greenest around.

Classic. American. Iconic.

Good Green Things: Sparrow Handbags

2008-12-14T19:01:00.003-05:00

If you've not yet heard of Sparrow Handbags, allow me to introduce you. My current longing is the Jasmeen bag, made of 100% organic cotton twill and batting.

The Jasmeen bag comes in the two colors shown.

Eco-Prep

Faith is Knowing.

Size Matters.

The Hiatus is Over...and this Tunic is FABULOUS!

Black is the New Green

The House the Mouse Built Goes Eco.

De-stressing the Eco Way

Squirrels, Recycling and The Farm Chicks

Happy 4th!

So Fresh!

The Green Project

Recession-proofing Your Vacation

A Classic Goes Organic

Hiatus.

In Praise of Billy Reid

99 Cents Can Change the World

Welcoming the Heat

What I Love About...

The Farmers' Market

Sunday's Finest

Views from the Road...

Pack a Lunch

Images of My Youth: Part 1

The Making of the Boat & Tote

Moving, Mom and Mother's Day

Don't Walk in the Attic: A Cautionary Tale

Checking In

A Fond Farewell to the City of Brotherly Love

Happy Derby Day!!!

Loomstate Comes to Target

A Tale of a LBD

A Most Fabulous Blog

The Silver Lining

The Vatican Goes Eco

EcoManor

Where Does the Other Sock Go?

What I Love About...

Eco-llegiate

If You're Crafty and You Know It, Clap Your Hands!

10 Best Coastal Eco-Resorts

When Tourism Goes Eco

The Boat Shoe Goes Eco

Tag, You're It!

Addendum to Eco-Exercise

Eco-Exercise

Preppy Icon of the Day

Cole Haan Goes Eco

What Color is Your Ribbon?

Channel Your Inner Martha

Organic Madras

Making a Case for Greener Luggage

Sometimes New is Better (Off Ted)

Tender Loving Care(n)

Free Shipping from Three Chickadees

What I Love About...

Eco Alma Mater

More Sales on Sails

Sale on Sailcloth

Changes are Afoot

Branch-ing Out

Welcome Back Gant!

Images of Home

Bamboo Luxury...on Paper

Greener Golf

Preppy Icon of the Day

Inching Towards Spring

Fresh Off the Presses

Greening by Adopting a Pet? You Bet!

Green is the Color of Love

Meanwhile, Back in Nashville...

Crying Crocodile Tears

I've Been Tagged

More Recommended Reading

Skirting the Issue

Eco-Golf

Philadelphia Home Show 2009

Going Green for Dummies

In the Trenches

Try a B&B for R&R

When Fashion Becomes Decor