I often have heard people say that they will go green when they can afford to. Things are tight now and Green Products are more expensive. That certainly can be the case, as with anything. Luxury products do cost more. I also know that living a green lifestyle myself, that I save money. I re-use, and re-design and re-furbish and I save. I use cardboard boxes in my organic garden to prevent weeds. I use my twisty ties and rubber bands that come on my fruit and veggies for all kinds of uses. I re-use containers and brown paper bags. My daughter loves to make cool projects from paper bags and left over tissue paper from gifts. She make puppet stages and all kinds of inventions out of cardboard boxes. It saves on buying new toys. She learns creativity and I can re-cycle it when she is done. I sell on e-bay and Craigslist. We buy used and we trade toys… all these things add up to saving a lot of money. I can buy green products that are quality made because I save in other ways. We use peanut butter jars to drink out of… it’s great, I never have to worry if one breaks… I used my tin watering can that finally rusted out, for a new planter. It’s decorative and unique. I’d have to say that being green and living a green lifestyle isn’t expensive at all unless you choose for it to be. It can be very affordable and even frugal. Freecycle is a great way to be green. Yard sales, thrift stores are also great and you can sometimes find some really nice finds. There are countless ways of being green. You don’t have to wait until the finances get better. You can actually help your finances by being green. Besides being green is Hip! and it connects you to a greater cause and one that makes you feel good. You meet wonderful people and share a common goal. Being green is fun and educational. It becomes the new way of life and it becomes a habit. I don’t even realize sometimes how green I am, because it’s natural for me now. Green living is the New, consumerism is going out as people realize how wasteful life has been up to this point, and the enormous impact it is having on us all. Give it a try! One step at a time..
Imagine a Greener World
My children are always a great source of constant contemplation. My youngest loves being Green and always has questions for me to ponder and come up with an answer. Recently we had a talk about how the world would be if it was all Green. If everything was clean and everything we disposed of was not harmful to living creatures or the planet. She wanted me to describe what SMOG was and how it gets up in the air and why it stays there. Why do we have SMOG mommy, she asked. From time to time I can imagine a Greener world where cars run on water and our air is clean, the streams are clean and our children can play in them once again. I can easily see solutions to these problems, and yet it seems as though as a society we struggle to get it done. It gets frustrating at times to know that the solutions are there, but the bureaucracy and corporate greed seem to be the deciding factors. That society doesn’t want to change their habits. I can say without a doubt that changing to Greener habits isn’t that big of a deal. I would guarantee that some people might even find it easier and more rewarding. Lots of people ( myself included) love the fact that it saves money. I spend hours searching the internet for the best water filters because our tap water is so toxic, search for the healthiest mattresses and reading labels to make sure I buy the least toxic products. It might seem as though being green is time consuming, but in reality, it is being toxic that is time consuming. If we lived in a world where toxic products weren’t inundated on the selves of stores and water wasn’t polluted with run off from factories, I wouldn’t have to spend so much time trying to keep my family healthy. I imagine a world that is Greener and cleaner, one without corporate greed, a world where pharma companies weren’t so dependent on disease and was focused on the long term well being of people and the world. That money spent was for research on cures instead of selling and commercializing drugs to make billions.
I imagine a world where my daughter doesn’t ask me why pollution stays in the air so long, a world without trash cans full of bottled water filters and pvc off gas smelling up my house and causing asthma attacks. A world where the natural system of the world wasn’t being compromised by humans. A world where we can still have what we need and want in this world and just take the time to make it healthy instead of just pumping out products to make massive millions.
I’d like to imagine a world in my life time where seagulls don’t attack me while eating my lunch on the beach just to get human food, where beggar dolphins don’t exist and monkey’s in Africa aren’t killing people to get their food. Where the balance of nature goes back to way it was created.
I want to believe that this world can be without oil spills in the ocean and people dying of coal mining related injuries and women in this country aren’t having defective fetus’ because of the chemicals where they work. A world where water isn’t flammable. But mostly what I’d like to imagine, is a world where we stop being oppressed and complacent about all these issues and wake up to the reality that WE CAN have a greener world more easily, more cooperatively and more peacefully!
Spring brings in the bugs!
What a great time of year Spring is. Everything is in blossom and outdoor activities, everyone is excited. Seems like the bugs are coming earlier this year. My daughter says today, I don’t want to go outside because of the bugs. It it tempting to call on the chemical sprays for warfare. It’s quick and easy, you just go to your local home improvement store and buy it. Sometimes the hidden toxins in products are better left unsaid, unread and disregarded some people feel. I hear people say ” oh a little bit won’t hurt you” “you can’t avoid all chemicals” well in truth a little bit might not hurt you and you can’t avoid all chemicals for the most part, but here is the kicker. We have so many chemicals in our daily products that we are already inundated with them without even knowing that we are. Therefore, we aren’t getting just a little bit and we already have exposed ourselves to tons of toxins already.
Pesticides are one of the most toxic things we can use. It is this mindset that manufactures bet on. The fact that we aren’t keeping track of all the chemicals that we consume on a daily basis. They depend on the marketing tactics and cleaver commercials to override our sense of logic. It can be a highly debatable subject for sure, but one thing most people agree, pesticides are harmful.
The use of pesticides can contribute to allergies, asthma, multiple chemical sensitivities, learning disabilities and even permanent damage. The EPA website stated “There are “critical periods” in human development when exposure to a toxin can permanently alter the way an individual’s biological system operates.” when writing about the dangers of pesticides. Children are at greater risk due to being on the floor crawling or playing, low on the grass outside, putting things in their mouth. Their immune systems aren’t fully developed and are not capable of handling such toxins. Pesticides are neurotoxins and therefore it can cause serious health issues.
Adults are also at risk, and most likely unless they have lived a very careful, specific lifestyle have been exposed since early childhood. Women who have not given birth yet can be effected and these neurotoxins can cause birth defects. So the mindset of ” a little bit won’t hurt” couldn’t be further from the truth, since most of us have already been exposed to masses of pesticides.
Keeping pesticides in the home poses a great risk of poisoning and therefore another risk of having the product in or around your home. Just a little bit of preparations can keep your children and family from more exposure to pesticides.
There are many different ways to prevent, contain and even destroy insects without the use of chemicals ( and by chemicals we mean neurotoxins).
Mice for instance there are traps, humane traps, sticky board, and electronic devices to keep them away, plus the good ole family cat or put up an owl house in your yard.
Mosquitoes is another pest we all want to get rid of. You can keep standing water out of your yard ( and if possible neighborhood) put bat houses up, swallow houses up, order praying mantis eggs to put out, buy or make a mosquito trap, use and wear natural herbal repellent.
Fleas are one of those things that not only drive you nuts, but your pets also. They multiply so fast. Nematodes are great for your yard (and very easy), herbal repellents, diatomaceous earth and natural flea traps.
It might be a little extra effort than going to the corner store, but well worth it for your children’s and families health and well being. It can be fun and educational too. Check out our line of natural pest control at www.mypumpkindoodle.com . Have a safe and fun Spring!
I’m Green I Recycle, What more can I do!
Recently had conversations with people and it’s natural that in creating friendships that people want to know what you do for a living. When I tell them I’m a Green Living Online Store owner, the “Green” questions arise. It’s really interesting that they think because they recycle that is all there is to being Green. Don’t get me wrong, recycling is a HUGE deal. It shouldn’t be taken lightly, but by far is only a small fraction of what being Green is all about. I love, really love helping people see the small steps they can take to becoming more Green. Being green doesn’t have to be such a huge life changing event once you understand that you can take small steps that make a big difference in the world and then move on to larger steps later. If becoming Greener seems scary, too overwhelming or you just don’t have time to read all about it to make the changes, here are some tips that you can do now to make the movement from “just recycling” to having a more greener lifestyle.
- Donate to Goodwill, Freecycle or Salvation Army
- Save old towels and wash cloths for rags
- Have Yard Sales
- Use Non Voc or Low VOC paints
- Use car washes that recycle their water
- Buy Green cleaning, and bath & body products
- Turn your hot water heater down
- Close windows and doors in the evening to prevent heat escape
- Turn your thermostat down at night or up if it is air conditioning
- When traveling refuse to have sheets changed daily
- Use a re-usable shopping bag and drinking travel cup
- Use non-toxic-non-chemical products on your lawn and yard
- Buy Organic food whenever possible
- Buy used clothing
- Look for recycled content when buying new
- Repair instead of replace when possible
Each step you take creates a ripple in the world that will spread and eventually become commonplace. It makes a huge difference in the Green movement. Little by little with every step the world becomes cleaner, healthier and more sustainable for all life. Make the change to one new Green step a month and you can have a Greener lifestyle in no time. For a listing of our our Green Living products visit us at www.mypumpkindoodle.com
Green Bedroom Is it Important?
Bedrooms often get overlooked when thinking about Green. People tend to forget about sleeping hours and focus on the waking hours for being green. In fact the bedroom can be one of the most toxic rooms in the house. Most especially when your talking about mattresses. So much goes into making a bedroom feel comfortable and relaxing that we don’t realize all that decor can be toxic. . It’s nice to have a beautiful bedroom, but it is also important to have a healthy bedroom. During our sleeping hours it is very important to have a non-toxic, environmentally friendly sleep environment. An investment in a Green bedroom can improve your sleep, energy level and overall health. Children are especially susceptible to toxic chemical in bedrooms. Their developing lungs need a toxic free environment. Some studies have linked SIDS, allergies and asthma to chemicals in infant mattresses.
This recent study, conducted in Sweden focused on analyzing the air in children’s bedrooms. The researchers were looking for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – gases that are emitted from liquids or solids and which can damage the environment and human health. They tested the air for 8 different VOCs in the bedrooms of 400 children. Nearly half of the children suffered from allergies or asthma, and the other half were healthy.
What they found was a link between the presence of PGEs – propylene glycol and glycol ethers – and asthma, allergies and eczema. In fact, children with PGEs in their bedroom air were between 50 and 180 times more at risk of developing asthma, rhinitis (cold symptoms) and eczema than children whose bedroom air was free of these chemicals.
The study also linked bedroom air containing PGEs to a higher incidence of kids developing antibodies to cats, dogs and pollen. In other words, they are sensitive to pollen and cat or dog dander (usually), and may develop allergic symptoms in the future or already have them.
Although mattresses are a huge issue with off gassing chemicals, lets not forget about carpeting, paint, blinds, curtains, and bedding as another major source of chemicals.
People have reported a significant improvement in their overall health after taking the steps to create a Green Bedroom.
Here are some ways to avoid toxic bedrooms:
- Use Non-Voc paint ( or low VOC)
- Buy natural fiber blinds or fabric blinds or curtains
- Buy Wool or Non-VOC carpet
- Buy Organic cotton or Natural fiber bedding such as Bamboo, Hemp or silk
- Buy Non-toxic Mattresses made from Wool, Organic Cotton and food grade plastics that have non toxic flame retardants
- Buy used furniture or furniture finished with Non-VOC paints or coatings
- Buy sustainable wood furniture
- Use Bamboo Charcoal to clean and purify the air of allergens and chemicals
- Use Non-toxic cleaners
check out our full line of Chemical Free Organic mattresses and bedding to make your bedroom safe, healthy and beautiful the natural way. www.mypumpkindoodle.com
Green Heart for Valentines
The holidays are over and most people are settling into the new year. Cleaning and organizing, storing holiday decorations and gift wrap neatly packed up until next year. It’s true the holiday season is the most wasteful time of the year, but not far behind it is Valentine’s day. Valentine’s cards and candy boxes, gift wrap and bows end up in the landfill.
189 Million Stemmed Roses are sold in the US each year on Valentines day. In comparison 1.2 billion are sold throughout the year. It is estimated that 144 million cards are exchanged each Valentine’s Day.
Here are some of the ways you can have a wonderful Green Heart at Valentines this year, and still make your loved ones feel the LOVE.
- Recycle, Recycle, Recycle cards, bottles, boxes and gift wrap
- Re-use cards, boxes, gift wrap and re-purpose them
- Compost what you can
- Send e-cards
- Buy recycled content cards or plantable seed cards
- Buy Organic, fair trade or ethical candies and treats
- Choose restaurants that have living wages, recycle and offer ethical or sustainable food
- Choose evening events that are close by or within walking distance to save emissions
- Buy live plants and flowers that can be replanted
- Buy handcrafted items and/or items made from natural resources
- Take a carriage ride instead of driving
- Support local business and local farmers when possible
- If you travel by air -off set your carbon footprint
- Roses say “I love you” on Valentines day. Try and buy Organic or chemical free Roses from local farms
With the amount of cards thrown out each year (144 million) in a landfill or even recycled, which is far better, but can still pose a problem, it is an enormous carbon footprint in the USA. Imagine if all those cards were planted to make beautiful flowers or Vegetables? That’s a lot of beauty! Could feed a lot of people too! 189 Million Roses purchased each year on Valentine’s Day, has a huge impact on so many issue with the environment with the chemicals used to keep those Roses looking great and blooming for Valentine’s Day, the dyes used to color them, along with the spray to make them shine. It’s far more than the average consumer is aware of. This Valentine’s Day make a commitment to give with a Green Heart and have a Eco Valentine’s Day.
Eco New Year!
As this year comes to an end, we think about all the wonderful happenings of the year, and also some of the not so wonderful happenings of the year. It is a time of reflection and a time of resolution. This year in particular has been such an amazing year of history making all over the world. It is a unforgettable year for some. It has also been a year of heartache and disaster, homelessness and joblessness. Certainly for me it has been a year of taking notes about the situation this country is in, where it needs to go, to better serve the 99%, and how to take part in turning this country into a country for all.
It continues to sadden me the amount of people that feel that global warming is the reason for being Green and that there is still a possibility of not existing. I read it on blogs and see it in the general public – the disbelief. The feeling that “Green People” are on a lost quest into nowhere. I do believe that Global Warming is happening because I see it… now 54 degrees the day after Christmas and my tulips are starting to pop up in December. I see the trees blooming in Winter instead of spring…. However, as I continue on my quest to bring awareness to people, Global warming is not all what it is about.
Even if we wake up tomorrow and a scientist confirms beyond a doubt that Global Warming is not occurring, would I be angry, NO absolutely not. All this Green movement would not be in vain. The Green movement will still be very necessary.
Here is why: We have massive oil spills in our oceans that is causing tremendous damage, we have air pollution that is causing lung disease and birth defects, allergies and asthma related issues, We have literately tons of trash mounding up in our land, so much so that we are running out of places to put it. We have millions of homeless people, starving people around the world, without clothing, heat and necessities of life. We have toxic drinking water. The single most important issue on this planet is water, which besides air is the thing we cannot live without. We have people in this world living in sewage infested areas with disease. All this gives me every reason to fight for a cause I’m so passionately aware of, this world needs to be cleaner, healthier and more abundant for ALL it’s inhabitants. not just the 1%.
Whatever your political views are, you cannot be blind to the scarcity of food on this planet in certain areas of the world, the massive waste our own country as well as other countries, the massive people without healthcare, homes and even clothing. You cannot be blind to the toxic air ( massive pollution you see above your heads clouding the cities) and you cannot be blind to the Oil spills and trash in our Oceans, unless you just want to not see it.
Again, I must say that Being Green is a Hip and Very Necessary thing to do! It isn’t about some trend that will pass, or a new wave of protests that eventually disappear, this is our future and our children’s future we are fighting for. It is so that our consumerism doesn’t pollute the world to the point global disaster.
Whatever the blockage is for you about going green, it will be far more of an inconvenience to live in a world that is far more uninhabitable. I’m in awe of this amazing planet we call home, rather than pack up and head for another planet once we’ve disposed of this one, why not make small changes that will help regenerate this world and we can enjoy it as a thriving planet, not a disposable planet. I know some people really feel that is far reached. Actually it might not happen in your life time, but most likely in your children’s or grand children’s life time. It is a possibility, if we don’t begin our journey now. Changes on this massive scale take time, and it won’t be an over night healing process, but we can begin to shift our destructive ways into more sustainable, proactive and humane ways of living. Where all life on this planet is cared for, thriving and treated with respect.
It is my hopes for the coming year, that people take a long look at the actions that they are causing on this planet and the effect it is having on the world as a whole, instead of the mentality of instant gratification and a disposable world, or one of apathy and denial.
Whatever steps you take towards a cleaner, healthier world will be of tremendous benefit to the world as a whole. Make this new year a Eco New Year! Not for Climate Change /Global warming, but for cleaner air, cleaner water, healthier children and cleaner oceans, rivers and soil. To support the 99% of this world from living in conditions that are unnecessary and unfair to the working class and the poor. Support a true democracy in this country, one that stands of the premise of our founding fathers for equal opportunity for all man. Instead of one for corporate greed and control. Let’s work for a cooperative, true democracy in this country. Here is to a more prosperous and healthy new year in 2012! Happy New Year! www.mypumpkindoodle.com
Have yourself a Merry Eco Christmas, let your footprint be light
Soon gifts will be opened, family gatherings, parties will take place. This is the most wasteful time of the year. 5 million tons more waste during the months of November and December. How can you make your Merry Christmas a Eco Christmas or whatever your religious beliefs are, A Merry Eco holiday! Give the gifts you desire to give and feel better about it. We have suggestions on wonderful Eco gifts for the entire family. Buying Green quality made products means they will last longer and in many cases can be handed down to someone else. This is huge in the reduction of waste in this country. One of the Greenest things you can do it buy quality made products that will last. Check out some of our holiday selections:
Our Eco Furniture is not only Unique & Stylish but also reduces waste. The design is such that allows for years of usage first a bed then a chair. Non toxic finishes and sustainable wood products make it a super deal. Lasts for years and many children later. Many mainstream products are not Green and usually don’t last for years. With our products you get the best of both. Sale! Pumpkin Doodle
Our certified Organic Cotton Robes are a great value! On Sale! These luxury robes outlast mainstream robes. Made from the finest GOTS Certified cotton the are soft and absorbent. These robes make great gifts for any loved one. Matching slippers make a great gift set. Mom or Dad will love to wrap themselves in Eco Luxury to have morning coffee. Take advantage of this great pricing and give the gift of Green this holiday!Women’s Shawl Robes $154.00 now $99.95 while supplies last. Pumpkin Doodle
So many chemicals in children’s clothing. Mainstream cotton has the highest levels of pesticides. Our Organic Cotton children’s clothing is made in the USA by Sustainable kids. Eco clothing doesn’t have to be dull! These unique and hip clothing for kids make being green hip and cool! Kids love sustainable kids clothing for the comfort and style. Mom’s love them because they are affordable and pesticide free! Feel better about your gifts this year. Buy Green! Check out our full line of Eco children’s clothing. Save now while supplies last! Pumpkin Doodle
The Christmas Tree Debate!
Christmas Tree Debate Real or Plastic?
Over the years I’ve heard so many comments about what is considered the eco thing to do when it comes to buying Christmas Trees. Some have commented that real trees, cut down trees and therefore it is much Greener to have an artificial tree. Some say it is much Greener to have a Real Tree!
Here are some facts to help you decide:
Plastic trees last longer, yes, but they also will eventually end up in the landfill and take over 500 years to decompose. The carbon footprint of the production of a plastic tree and the toxins it produces to make them are of real concern.
- Artificial trees are made of PVC a toxic plastic which off gas toxic chemicals
- Artificial trees are non recyclable and non biodegradable
- Artificial trees are made of petroleum and metal and have a high carbon footprint
- Artificial trees are cleaner and less messy and maybe the choice with people with tree allergies
33 million live trees are sold in the US every year. This benefits local tree farmers and helps the environment. Most trees take up to 16 years to harvest. These trees are re-planted, from seeds, which keeps the cycle of trees constantly going. Live trees biodegrade much faster. I suggest getting your tree locally and driving as close as you can get the tree to avoid the carbon footprint of emissions.
- One single tree absorbs 1 ton of carbon emissions in it’s life time.
- Live Christmas trees are a sustainable product, they are replanted / replaced each year.
- Live Trees employ over 100,000 Americans
- Live Trees can be mulched, used for landscaping, gardening or erosion control
- Live trees can have an impact on the environment if pesticides are used to grow them
- Live trees can be purchased with a bulb and replanted for next Christmas
- Live trees need to be discarded outside of a landfill, landfills don’t provide enough oxygen for decomposition
The best option for live trees would be a chemical free tree or an organically grown tree that is locally grown. If you must purchase a artificial tree search and see if you can find one that is used. It has less off-gassing and is much better for the environment because new ones don’ t have to be made. Until which time food grade plastic trees or other sustainable fiber trees can be made, our vote is on a live Christmas tree! They have a wonderful aroma too! Enjoy your holidays!
Shop Green this Holiday Season with Pumpkin Doodle!
Cyber Monday Is it Cool?
Tomorrow is the biggest shopping day for online retailers. It is like Black Friday for brick and mortar stores. It is what keeps most stores in business as the majority of their sales come during this season. So many people into the Green movement stray away from this shopping frenzy. However you can make Cyber Monday a Green one! Buy Green! Use Ethical Green Small business to buy your holiday shopping gifts. You can get really great deals on Green, Eco friendly products during the Cyber Monday sales. Here are really great deals we are offering.
Organic Cotton Robes these are truly the Rolls Royce of Bath Robes… Amazingly soft and well made. GOTS certified Organic Cotton. We have matching slippers also. Perfect for Him or Her. On Sale! Was $154.00 now $144.00 Buy Now
Mom’s and daughter’s love to polish their nails and with the toxic chemicals in nail polish and remover, many mom’s don’t. We have nail polish and remover that is Earth Friendly and Non-toxic. Made from earth’s materials… They make great stocking suffers and friend gifts too! Mom might want some for herself. Set includes 3 colors. Polish remover can by purchased in gift sets or separately. Check out our full line of Natural Nail polish and accessories Buy Now $23.50
Every home needs candles. Main stream candles have toxic chemicals. Most are made from Petroleum. Some are made from GMO soybeans. Our candles are made from Organically grown soybeans. They are as Eco friendly as candles can be. Amazing aroma and longer lasting. Fill your home with the sweet smell of Organic grown soy candles in amazing scents. One for every room in the house. They make great gifts! Buy Now!
The holiday season is a time for Toys and lots of them. Little girls and boys love to receive toys under the tree! We have a wide selection of Wood, Organic and Natural toys , games and playdough. Let their imagination soar with our Eco toys. Children learn from playtime and what a great way to make sure they are safe from harsh chemicals. Check out our advanced wooden block set on Sale from $94.00 to $78.95 amazing savings! Buy Now
Being Green doesn’t have to be expensive. Buy Green this holiday season and feel good knowing your helping the massive mass market of toxic products that are produced every year. Many of which end up in the landfill. Give your family the best in quality and Eco products. Check out our full line of products at www.mypumpkindoodle.com Happy Shopping! Happy Holidays!
Lisa Hawkins is a Green Entrepreneur dedicated to helping bring awareness to the world about the importance of Being Green.
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