Harvard Study Finds Fluoride Lowers IQ

04 Jan 2014 Leave a comment

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

The question of fluoride came up the other day, and a Mama wanted credible sources to turn to in order to help her decide what is best for her family. I think most of us would agree Harvard is a credible source, and someone shared a link to a study they did, which had pretty significant findings:
“The children in high fluoride areas had significantly lower IQ than those who lived in low fluoride …areas,” “Choi et al. write, “Although fluoride may cause neurotoxicity in animal models and acute fluoride poisoning causes neurotoxicity in adults, very little is known of its effects on children’s neurodevelopment. They recommend more brain/fluoride research on children and at individual-level doses.
“It’s senseless to keep subjecting our children to this ongoing fluoridation experiment to satisfy the political agenda of special-interest groups,” says attorney Paul Beeber, NYSCOF President. “Even if fluoridation reduced cavities, is tooth health more important than brain health? It’s time to put politics aside and stop artificial fluoridation everywhere,” says Beeber.”
Please share this, it’s IMPORTANT info!! Link to full article: http://canadianawareness.org/2012/07/harvard-study-finds-fluoride-lowers-iq/

Adventures in Babywearing

03 Jan 2014 14 Comments

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources, Reviews

Some people consider babywearing a recent development or new fad. I’ve had people say to me “that’s so cool, we didn’t’ have those when I was raising my children”. Of course they were around, just not everyone was aware of their existence, but babywearing is an ancient practice. It just makes sense! Different wraps have evolved in different regions of the world: wrap, sling, mei tai (tie on) depending on the climate, the type of work the mother is doing, etc. I LOVED reading this history of babywearing, which includes many great photos: http://www.slingbabies.co.nz/Site/History_2.ashx. With my 1st child, babywearing was convenient here & there, especially when traveling, shopping, etc. and I loved having his forehead close enough to kiss! With the addition of his little sister, it’s not just a convenience; it’s an essential part of our daily life. Baby Girl is 6 months at this time, and I’m starting to wear her a little less as she spends more time on a blanket on the floor, in her chair, etc. I still wear her ~6 hrs/day, down from 8+ her first several months. She naps in her carrier while I do dishes, fold laundry, or play with Big Brother. Or, she just hangs out in it, peering out & paying attention to everything Mama is doing. I absolutely love babywearing and wanted to share my experience with the few carriers I’ve tried. There are many, many carriers available. My main goal was to try each of the different styles: wrap, ring sling, mei tai, modern buckle system. It’s very possible my preferences will change as my baby grows. Althea was 10# 2 oz. at birth,  at 4 months she was 16#, at almost 6 months she’s 19.

Here’s a great article regarding the criteria that make a good carrier: http://www.babywearingadvice.co.uk/criteria.htm

So, here’s the one’s I’ve tried to date, in no particular order. I will update this as my babe grows, and if I should happen to try another one. There are many different makes of the following models:

Moby Wrap- made in Thailand. Organic available, $45- 60(organic), recommended to 35#. Great for preemies or small infants, in my opinion, although I’ve heard from many who love & wear their children until much older on back. I absolutely loved this wrap for the few times when I got it perfectly tight. Babe was nestled in there so snug & it felt very secure. However, the majority of the times I just couldn’t get it tight enough. I’d get her in there & find it too loose, and adjusting it is not easy. I’m so thankful that Debi who owns Baby, Go Green in Houston, TX (http://www.shopbabygogreen.com/) loaned this to me to try out! After using it for a few weeks I decided it just wasn’t for me (& my BabyHawk came), so I sent it back to Debi to use as a floor display. I really, really wanted to try it, and am so thankful I had the opportunity!
celeryorganic

Ergo- made in China. $114-$145(organic). Need infant insert for under 15# (although I’ve heard from parents who did not know they needed one/did not use one)- The insert is $25- $38(organic). Recommended to 45#. Althea was 15# by 4 months, although some don’t reach that weight until 1 year. Has hood & zipper pouch. I wore my son, who is almost 3 now, exclusively in our Ergo. I did like it, but I also had nothing to compare it to, which was one of the reasons I really wanted to try some of the other styles as I had a chance with a brand new babe. I found myself recommending the Ergo, but hated that it was made in China. I’m so thankful to have a few made in the USA options to recommend now!
ergo-infant-insert-all

Balboa ring sling- made in China, $60. Honestly, it didn’t feel safe. Maybe for preemie, or maybe it’s just that I’m used to babe being strapped to me, but I don’t like the separation that the pouch creates. Developed & recommended by Dr. Sears, who has done a lot to promote baby wearing which I appreciate, just not a fan of this carrier. Recommended to 25#. I don’t have much else to say about this one. I passed it on to a Mama interested in trying it out.
balboa

Action Baby Carrier. Made in Detroit, MI! 2 carriers: standard $98 (recommended until ~18m) and toddler $114. The made in the USA Ergo alternative. Buckle system like Ergo. Has hood, very easy to put on, straps crisscross behind back. Here’s the recommendation I was given via email: “Standard Size is recommended from 8lbs to 40lbs. Toddler Size is recommended from 15-45lbs wherein the toddler is made wider so the support extends to the knee. If your 4months is already 10-15lbs, I may suggest toddler for longer use and you can also use it for your 2.5y.o.” However in my review I commented that I didn’t feel I could comfortably carry my babe as tightly as I’d like they said the typically recommend the standard size until 18 months. I think I will like this carrier as my babe grows. I LOVE that it’s made in the USA, and for anyone tempted by an Ergo, I’d DEFINITLEY point you to an Action instead! My email inquiring about organic options was not answered… To read my full review: https://ecofriendlyusa.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/action-baby-carrier-review-giveaway/.
action

BabyHawk. Made in Oceanside, CA! $85-$90. No infant insert needed. You can get a perfect fit by tying it on to your tightness preference, I like my babe quite tight- it feels so safe, and she loves it! As she gets older I’ll prefer to wear her more loosely I’m sure! Straps crisscross behind back & go down to tie around your waist which helps distribute weight across greater portion of your body. No buckles, nothing mechanical that could possibly break (slammed my Ergo strap in the car door once, shattering a buckle), also no hood. Very easy to tighten up & readjust if loosens up. Recommended to 40#. I feel the BabyHawk creates the best M shape, as described above in the recommended criteria for a good carrier. As you don’t need an insert, 1 carrier is good to 40# AND it’s the cheapest, it is my favorite & will be my top recommendation! They also make a couple other styles of carriers; I’ve only tried the Mei Tai. I asked them about organic options, here’s the response: “Unfortunately at this time we discontinued the organic options because they were not selling. However we do have enough of the cherry twill to make one carrier if you are interested. We also have the black and white floral shown in the pic which is also organic.” So, contact them if interested, and if enough people request organic, maybe we can get them to offer it once again! My full review here: https://ecofriendlyusa.wordpress.com/2013/09/21/babyhawk-mei-tai-review/.
babyhawk
Questions, comments, experiences- please share!

Added 8/11/16: I just learned about these made in USA wraps: http://www.thenaturalbabyco.com/top-brands/brands-k-o/ovolo.html

Jolene’s Poofy Organics Make-up Review

30 Dec 2013 3 Comments

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Reviews Tags:

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POOFY ORGANICS ~I AM GODDESS~ MAKEUP REVIEW

I had the pleasure of receiving some makeup to review from Poofy Organics. I am always on the hunt for safe and amazing makeup as it is a question that I constantly get. I am always asked which makeup I recommend and use and where they can find it. I recently did a Mascara review that has Poofy Organics as one of our top 4 choices of safe mascara that is recommended for use. I was sent a mascara, blush, eye shadow, and lipstick to try. I must say that when I first received my products in the mail, I loved the packaging, I felt that I had a high quality product in my hands without even opening it up and using it. Also, right away, I could see that all of the colors were beautiful and were exactly what I was expecting from the description…LOVE that! When you buying online, you want to KNOW what you are getting and I was NOT disappointed!

Blush BLUSH I really enjoyed using this blush. I used their lightest one and it is light pink in color. I was pleasantly surprised that it was so silky soft not only by looks but by feel as well. I don’t usually used pressed makeup as it tends to be heavy and dry on my face…NOT the case here! Just one light application was all that was needed to get a glow on my cheeks and I felt like I wasn’t wearing any at all! Best part was that it stayed put AND felt wonderful!

Divinity LIPSTICK First I will say that I am not a lipstick person. I find them to be chalky and with one application they over power my face…not making for a great look. Well THIS lipstick actually felt great on my lips! One light sweep of it gave a subtle look…PERFECT for me!! It does layer well if you want a bit deeper of a color. I must add that this lipstick also smells delicious!!! Very impressed with this find. It is the only lipstick I now own and probably will ever own!

Sultry Silver Eye Shadow Again, another pressed powder that is silky smooth on my skin! This is a light silver eye shadow that only needs 1-2 soft applications to get the soft color looking great on your eyes. I did 3-4 as I liked it a bit more obvious and it felt like I was wearing NOTHING on my eyelids and it did NOT flake off into my contacts or anywhere else on my face. It applied perfectly! There was also NO need for re-application as it stayed put and true to color the whole time I wore it!

Mascara Black This was my most exciting product to try as I love mascara but gave up wearing it as I couldn’t find anything that wasn’t full of chemicals, that didn’t produce mass amounts of flakes half of which came from me rubbing my eyes so much from irritation! In short, I LOVE this mascara and is my favorite to date. Here’s why! Upon taking the wand out of the bottle, it was NOT clumpy, gloopy, overly wet, and runny. I applied one layer on one eye, moved to the next and repeated for a second layer. Perfect day look! Because it is not a super wet product, I didn’t get any on my eye shadow or under my eyes (which was a happy surprise for me) and even upon trying to make a more dramatic look, applying a 3rd and 4th layer still did not clump my blonde lashes or dry them out (aka flaking) at all. I had this mascara on for several hours and it didn’t irritate my sensitive contact wearing eyes one bit. I am highly sensitive to preservatives and different chemicals particularly in personal care items and I had zero reaction!! The only downside to this mascara was that it did take a bit of effort to get off at night with my coconut oil (which some would say is a plus because it doesn’t go running all over your face with just a bit of moisture), and that I didn’t discover this little gem sooner!! Note: the mascara is not waterproof, that would take some nasty chemicals!

List of ingredients with their EWG rating in parenthesis:  Water (Aqua) (EWG0), Chamomile Hydrosol (Matricaria Recutita)* (EWG0), Cera Alba (Beeswax)* (EWG0), Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax (EWG0), Mica (CI 77019) (EWG2), Coffea Arabica (Coffee Powder)* (EWG0), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder* (EWG2), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (EWG0)*, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch* (EWG0), Lecithin, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Acetic Acid, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris Extract, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Flower Extract, Hydrastis Canadensis Root Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract*. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), (CI 77491), (CI 77492). (*Certified Organic)

 

As a Side Note: The owner of this company is completely forthcoming with her ingredients and why she uses what she does. She happily answered all of my questions (which I always have a ton) and she is passionate about making safe products for her family and her customers. I am truly impressed with Poofy Organics as I feel they offer amazing customers service and superior products.

DID YOU KNOW: You can order any of the products that I mentioned in this month’s BUYING CLUB!!! Poofy Organics is part of it and she has many other wonderful products including a full line of safe and beautiful makeup to choose from!

Yes, organic candy canes do exist, and they’re DELICIOUS!!!

01 Dec 2013 Leave a comment

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

I just had so much fun shopping at the Natural Candy Store. It’s amazing! They have a huge category of organic Holiday candy. I got some organic candy canes & a whole bunch of stocking stuffers. The prices are very reasonable, they get you with shipping though. I was going to stop at $25 in product, but shipping was $14! Then I saw $6.99 shipping over $50, so got my cart to $50.25 I got some organic lollipops my son loves, and even some jelly beans that I’m going to store away for a few months until Easter. Yes, candy is still candy, but I love that I can find organic, fair-trade, non-GMO, made in the USA options to allow my family to indulge in!

http://www.naturalcandystore.com/category/organic-candy

Every dollar spent is a VOTE!!

23 Nov 2013 Leave a comment

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living

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A bit of good, encouraging news I think we all could use!  “If the market is any indication, a look at the share price and escalating growth of Annie’s versus the collapsing growth of Kellogg’s tells a story about our food supply that no marketing campaign can. In the last year, due to soaring consumer demand for products free from artificial ingredients, Annie’s growth has exploded. Annie’s most recent quarter saw $57.9 million in net sales, representing a year over year increase of 24%. Earnings per share were up 19.1% and consumption up 22%. Annie’s, which produces real food with real ingredients, also just made a $6 million plant acquisition to expand capacity.” Link to full text: http://organicconnectmag.com/gmo-non-gmo-tale-two-stocks/#.UpDoeNiA3cm

Arbonne=the longest ingredient lists I’ve ever viewed!!

07 Nov 2013 7 Comments

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

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FB post on this topic: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=764507046898271&id=397517646930548

Melaleuca: the very definition of GREENWASHING!

07 Nov 2013 75 Comments

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

Melaleuca-Review
UPDATED 2/9/2024 (a decade+ after I initially shared this!):
 
 
 
The following statements are my opinion…
 
 
 
More on Melaleuca, and why you couldn’t PAY me to use any of their products.  In my opinion, they are the very definition of Greenwashing.
 
 
WHAT IS GREENWASHING?? (from Wikipedia): “An example of greenwashing occurs when an organization spends significantly more resources on advertising being “green” than on environmentally sound practices.[4] Greenwashing can range from changing the name or label of a product to evoke the natural environment (for example on a product containing harmful chemicals)…” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenwashing
 
 
 
If you go to their website, you see a green forest in the background. Their symbol is a green leaf. They’re pitching their products to the green/natural/organic crowd. BUT their products are no better than conventional lines on the market, there are tons & tons of product lines with much safer ingredient labels. I know this is shocking info to some, but this is a perfect example of not being able to trust what any company tells you, you have to read the ingredient labels, which speak (very clearly) for themselves!!
 
 
 
Note, at the time of my most recent update (2024), I cannot get most of the ingredient tabs to open. If the following label is no longer correct, I’d be happy to update it. Also, when I scroll through the pics on each product, I notice the ingredients pic from the label is the very last picture shown, only visible if I tab through 5 other pics of the product first. It’s been my experience in my decade+ of looking at product offerings that companies who are proud of their ingredients showcase them front & center. They make them easy to access. Not bury them. So this speaks volumes to me right off the bat.
 
 
Here’s my entry for them on my Greenwashers list: One of the worst of all greenwashers! Next to Arbonne, the worst ingredients I’ve seen in a baby line marketed as safe. I truly despise the misleading that this company is doing!  The following ingredients from their Koala Pals baby shampoo/wash is nothing short of horrendous (note, at time up recent update, I can not get most of the ingredient tabs to open. If this label is no longer correct, I’d be happy to update it. Also, when I scroll through the pics on each product, I notice the ingredients pic from the label is the very last picture shown, only visible if I tab through) You couldn’t pay me to use this on my family, I’m not joking. Rest of the labels I’ve viewed are more of the same: “Aqua (water/Eau), Sodium trideceth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, PEG-150 Distearate, Benzyl Alcohol, Parfum, Polyquaternium-10, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, d-a-Tocopheryl Acetate (Natural Vitamin E), Avena Sativa (Oat) Extract, Butylene Glycol, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Leaf Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Amylcinnamyl Alcohol, Benzyl Salicylate, Butylphenyl Methypropional, Hexl Cinnamal, Linallol.
 
 
Is it possible they make one or 2 saferER products (than big box, mainstream brands)– of course. BUT, any company that would offer this as a baby wash, what should be their mildest formula, is not a company I would trust to make anything safe. I didn’t see a single product I would ever use nor recommend. Cleaning product labels are extremely vague, which many cleaning labels are. Things such as non-ionic surfactants, buffering agents, non-disclosed preservatives, doesn’t disclose what IS actually in there, which is very important to know.. I see a statement *contains fragrance allergens* on some cleaning products. Can tell very little about what they actually do contain by their cleaning product labels…
 
 
Is EWG and end all & be all for ingredient safety? Absolutely not. But it’s a good starting point. I highly encourage every, single one of you who read this and don’t want to take my word for any of this to do your own research using whatever sites you trust. I always Google: concerns with X ingredient in personal care products, to see what concerns are raised by various sites.
 
That’s my opinion, and what you came here to read. If you’re not into organic living whatsoever, this brand could be fine for you. But if they reeled you in due to their statement that they’re “the Wellness Company”, if you were lured by their green leaf, and lush meadows, thus believing they are at all offering organic/natural goodness, you’ve definitely been fooled. I don’t see a single organic ingredient in the entire line.
 
 
And EWG agrees, giving them an F for the 6 products they list of theirs. Definitely an F in my book too! https://www.ewg.org/guides/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&q=melaleuca&page=1&per_page=15#.Wot5NK6nHZ4
 
 
 
Any brand from even my So-So List is offering healthier options, and no membership! If you want to continue giving this brand your money, believe me, I won’t lose sleep at night over it. No need to write me and tell me I don’t know anything either, it’s okay, you can believe in these products all you want. Sharing this info for those with an open mind. Which many, many of you do have!
 
Approved/Best of the Best List: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/safe-products/
So-So List: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/so-so/
Greenwashers/Not recommended list: https://ecofriendlymamausa.com/product-reviews/greenwashers/
 
And on my website you’ll also find a ton of other resources, from Ingredients to Avoid (a work in progress, like everything else) to TONS of made in USA resources. Happy clicking!
 
 

Glee Gum NOT so natural

20 Oct 2013 1 Comment

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

Glee Gum lovers, you’re not going to be happy about what I have to tell you… Thanks to Amy, a wise-Mama on the page with her own blog, it was revealed what the base of their gum is: Polyvinyl Acetate. I just bought Glee Gum for my son for the 1st time a month or so ago, as I saw it at my food co-op, saw all the great things it doesn’t contain which are clearly labeled on the package: No artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners (no aspartame). Non-GMO Project Verified, made from sustainably harvested rainforest chicle. Sounds good, right?
A couple of reminders come out of this: 1: Just because it’s on the shelves of your food co-op (Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s) DOESN’T mean it’s great. 2: Companies are great at telling you what their products DON’T contain, while leaving out which less than desirable ingredients they do contain. When I asked on Glee’s FB wall if their gum still contains this ingredient here was their response: “Our current gum base formula is confidential– but we CAN tell you that we have an exciting new formula coming later this year!”
As you’ll read in the Amy’s blog post, they claim they’re working on removing it, as their response to me indicates…. So, stay tuned. http://themindfulhome.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-truth-about-glee-gum-made-with.html
And, the alternative?! Simply gum, the only TRULY natural gum on the market!! http://www.simplygum.com/. Available through the buying club’s quarterly order: https://ecofriendlyusa.wordpress.com/donations-now-accepted/eco-friendly-usa-buying-club-2/

Nov. Buying Club

11 Oct 2013 3 Comments

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

For those of you new to my page: I’ve been doing reviews for about a year to fulfill my mission to find the safest products on the market for my family & yours. In that process I have discovered several fabulous lines of products that I’ve happily shared with the page. Many people express interest in trying products from these companies, but then find out how much shipping is for the couple of items they’d like to try & they get discouraged & don’t place that order. The idea is to place infrequent, but large orders with each company as a group. After the November order we’ll be going to quarterly, so the next order won’t be until February. I won’t be selling lines like Earth Mama Angel Baby or Dr. Bronner’s (for example) even though they’re on my safe list, as they’re readily available if not locally, on Vitacost, Amazon, Etc & I can’t come close to competing with the prices they offer. Also, from those companies you have to order by the case, whereas the companies I’m dealing with are small enough that they’re willing to work with our need to purchase eaches (which is crucial to this whole idea!). Getting your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors to go in on an order with you is a great idea, as I can ship it all in one box, and you can divide shipping costs amongst yourselves- so share this idea!!

At this time, there is no discount on product (unless noted). So, what is the advantage of ordering as a group? Consolidated shipping costs! My homemade deodorant is a good example of how expensive it is to ship. I ask $8 for a jar, and it costs $5 to ship via the USPS, they make just about as much as I do. So, many have expressed interest, but then find out shipping doubles the cost & are less interested. Now, you can purchase a jar of my deodorant, a handmade (by me) tie-dyed onesie, dish soap from Poofy Organics, face wash from Fiddlebump’s, toothpaste from Earthpaste, a box of EcoNuts, a bottle of castile soap from MamaSuds, laundry powder from Molly’s Suds, a body scrub from Simply Rustic (for example) & you’ll only pay one shipping fee and receive it all in one box from me to you. I know the USPS rate options well, and flat rate boxes can fit quite a bit of product, so having that box as full as possible saves you money. The idea is that you can order as much as you want, from whichever companies you want, and the more the better.

What I need from you: I need you to be patient, and realize that this is a slow process, but hopefully one that will get products in your hands that you’ve been waiting to try. If you need something immediately, please order it yourself. If you only want items from one company, order it yourself as going through me will not save you any money. The majority of these companies are making these products to order. As none of us have any idea how many of you are going to order it’s possible we could overwhelm a company if, for example, 200 people order dish soap from Poofy Organics (which I hope happens, it’s FABULOUS stuff!!). So, worst case scenario in that situation is Poofy would need to reorder some ingredients to complete the order. I would fill orders in the order they were received, and ship the rest as soon as I get the product in my hands. It may take them a few days to make the orders, then they have to get shipped to me. I turn around & repackage when I have everything, and reship. This whole process could take up to 2 weeks. So, with a deadline to place orders by mid-month, you should have the product in your hands by the end of the month at the latest. I’m sure there are questions I haven’t yet thought of, and situations that will come up. I guarantee I will handle them to the best of my ability, and make sure all parties are happy in the end.

HOW TO ORDER & OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:
◾You will email orders to me at: ecofriendlymamausa@gmail.com. Please include your mailing address, and a list of the names of the product you want, and what SIZE, if there is more than one option for that product (2 oz, 4 oz, etc) & what company it is from. Also include the price of the item so I don’t have to look it up. I will start taking orders on the 1st of the month, with the deadline for orders on the 17th of the month (for November). After the November order I will go to a quarterly order, so the next one won’t be until Feb. so stock up in November!!

◾There are no fees to join this ‘club’. But, if you greatly value this service & have a few extra bucks, I’d gladly take a donation in lieu of a memership fee 🙂

◾There is no commitment to ever purchase again.

◾ I’ve decided to ditch the minimum order policy for the buying club (I had requested a $25 min.). I REALLY want to get samples into the hands of those that would like them. You can now get a 10ml sample of my deodorant (~2 weeks worth), MamaSuds just introduced an 8 oz sample of her liquid laundry soap for $4 (2-4 loads), Molly’s Suds offers a 1-2 load sample pack of their powdered laundry detergent for only $2.75, Josiah’s Oils offers a sample of her shampoo (2.5 oz for $2.70), EcoNuts has 10 load samples for $4.50, and Earthpaste (all 4 flavors available to sample, $.25 each, enough for a few brushings). These would all fit nicely into the $5 flat rate envelope- but, that means you’re paying $5 shipping on not a ton of product. If you’re willing to do that, I’m OK with it. BUT, I’d rather see you throw a few other things in that envelope (a tie-dyed onesie/t-shirt or 2 would fit nicely), you could easily add a bottle/jar of this or that from the other offerings of the club too.

◾ I will ship anywhere in the world as you’re paying the shipping from my house to your house. The large flat rate box which will ship anywhere in the US for $12 costs $55 to send to Canada, and $77 anywhere else in the world (this includes $100 of insurance) While I prefer to keep products as local as possible, several of you in Canada & Australia who’ve been on my page for some time express frustration when I come out with reviews for great products, but you don’t have access to them in your country. I’ve mentioned in the past that I’d be happy to put together a package for you, and now that can be a reality!

◾You have 2 options to pay: PayPal, or personal check (many have gone to e-checking, which is fine too). If you don’t already have PayPal, it’s super easy to set up. I’m relatively new to it too, and was hesitant for quite some time, but am very glad I finally set up an account. It can take a few days, so please get one established immediately if you’re going to go that route. The benefit of PayPal is it’s an instantaneous transaction and eco-friendly as no fossil fuels are used to deliver a check across country. Also, it’s extremely convenient when it comes time to ship, as it saves your address & I’ll be able to see a ‘print shipping label’ button next to your name. which will save me manually entering everyone’s address into the USPS system. The other option is you can mail me a check & I’ll drop your package in the mail as soon as I receive it.

◾WI residents must pay 5.5% sales tax.

◾All sales are final. I will fix any errors I make, but if you order the wrong product, or aren’t happy with it, you’re stuck with it…

◾Shipping insurance- USPS includes $100 in insurance using Priority Mail, which I’ll be using. I will split the cost of additional insurance for packages over $100– $100-$200 will cost you an additional $1.60, $200-$300 will cost you an additional $2.55, and the PO informed me you must sign for your package if it’s over $200. I will not split cost of international shipping insurance.

◾You will be charged once your order is ready to ship. I’ll send you a PayPal invoice with the total amount as soon as I have your package ready to go, as soon as I receive payment it’ll go in the mail.

COMPANIES TO ORDER FROM:

I’ve noted a few gift ideas. Of course the personal care product lines all offer many great ideas- who can’t use some great shampoo, lotion, etc? Or if you have someone with eczema in the family, how about an eczema cream from a few different lines (Fiddlebump’s & Poofy both make one) for them to try, as an example.

◾Cold Bee Gone- http://www.buzzagogo.com/. $12.95/bottle. My review: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=749887745026868&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater
◾EcoNuts– http://econutssoap.com/. Everything available, including 10 load sample packs so you can give them a try. Prices as marked on their website: http://econutssoap.com/ My note on soap nuts, in case you’re unfamiliar with them: https://www.facebook.com/notes/eco-friendly-babyfamily-products-made-in-the-usa/truly-natural-laundry-solutions-soap-nuts-wool-dryer-balls/556789574336687

**Gift ideas: reusable bamboo paper towels, samples of the nuts &/or liquid, dryer balls, veggie wash.

◾Fiddlebump’s– everything available, prices as marked: http://fiddlebumps.com/. My review of several products: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=640223369326640&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

◾H3idiho Designs amber jewelry: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.755110171171292.1073741831.397517646930548&type=1

◾Jess’s (that’s me) homemade deodorant which has received rave reviews. NEW: 10ml samples (lip balm sized container, enough for ~2 weeks) $2: https://www.facebook.com/notes/eco-friendly-babyfamily-products-made-in-the-usa/jesss-homemade-deodorant-and-body-scrub-are-now-for-sale/645692072113103
◾ Jess’s tie-dyes: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.723127704369539.1073741830.397517646930548&type=

***All would make great gifts!

◾ Josiah’s Oils LLC– everything available, prices as marked. NEW this time around: samples of shampoo (2.5 oz for $2.70) AND, Order any size of the Germ Fighting concentrated organic essential oils [known as the Thieves Blend] & you may have a FREE 2 OZ made in the USA spray mist bottle to make your own sanitizer or room spray for inhalation or just air freshener. Anyone ordering our Concentrated DIY Household Cleaner essential oil may have a FREE 4 OZ. Spay Bottle also made in the USA to make their own cleaner.: http://www.josiahsoils.com/. My review:https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=678783912137252&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

◾MamaSuds– castile soap for $9/bottle (16 oz.) , and 8 ounce bottles of liquid laundry soap samples (2-4 loads) for $4. The gallon of laundry soap is expensive to ship, and the $20/gallon price directly from her website includes shipping, which is roughly ½ the cost of the product, so there’s no advantage to ordering it from me- you should do so straight from her. I love her castile soap though, and it’s a great alternative to Dr. Bronner’s, so am happy to offer it to the group! Website: http://m.mamasuds.com/. My review: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=660935610588749&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

◾Molly’s suds– everything available, prices as marked: http://www.mollyssuds.com/ I haven’t used these products yet, but many on the page have tried the powdered laundry soap & have shared great feedback. My review: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=753873981294911&set=pb.397517646930548.-2207520000.1382562434.&type=3&theater

◾Natulo Ice Teethers made from organic bamboo & organic cotton fabric. http://www.natulo.com/store/index.php?route=product/category&path=61. There will be new colors available for those that bought them during the special offering on my page awhile back. So if you’re looking & seeing just white, check back soon for more options! Prices as marked, and just the teethers available.

◾Poofy Organics: http://www.poofscloset.com/servlet/StoreFront. Everything available, price as marked . My review: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=657087054306938&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

**gift ideas: nail polish would be a great stocking stuffer, zit zapper kit, and their is a whole page of gift baskets: http://www.poofscloset.com/servlet/the-**HOLIDAY-Gifts-%26-Baskets**/Categories

◾Redmond Trading Company: http://www.redmondtrading.com/. Everything available, prices as marked on everything EXCEPT Earthpaste which I can offer for a bit cheaper $6.00 (it is $7.99 through them, $9.99 on some online sites, $4.59 through Vitacost). NEWLY available, their brand new xylitol-free Spearmint in full size tubes only, no samples are yet available. Also, you can buy a sample of any flavor (except spearmint) Earthpaste for $.25, so it’s a great time to try all flavors!

***Earthpaste sample (10-24 packs) would make nice stocking stuffers, they offer season salt gift boxes, or variety packs of the various salts. Also, the bath salts &/or clay products would be wonderful gifts.

*My review of Earthpaste: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=677690208913289&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

*Redmond Clay: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=687531201262523&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

*Real Salt, Season Salt, Bath Salts: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=691161900899453&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

◾Simply Gum- the only TRULY natural gum in the U.S. $2.99/pack of 12. Here’s my review: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=759042250778084&set=pb.397517646930548.-2207520000.1383052806.&type=3&theater
◾Simply Rustic: http://www.simplyrustic2011.com/. All products available & prices as marked. My review: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=568353086513669&set=a.568349859847325.144572.397517646930548&type=3&theater

**She offers different gift boxes & sample packs (you can choose the scents/flavors), many wonderful gift ideas!

◾Smiling Tree Toys– http://www.smilingtreetoys.com/ will be available for a one time order in advance of the Holiday shopping season. The deadline for the club’s 2nd order will be Nov. 17th, but as Smiling Tree is making all these toys by hand, and I anticipate several custom/personalized items, we need to give them a couple of extra weeks to get your items made. I will start taking orders for Smiling Tree Toys on October 27-Nov 3. If you’re not placing an order with the Nov. 17th deadline for the rest of the companies, it makes no sense to order from Smiling Tree through me, do so directly from them. But, if you’d like some items from Smiling Tree, Poofy, EcoNuts, Fiddlebump’s,etc. this will be a great opportunity to get it all shipped in one box, with one shipping fee! Don’t worry, I’ll send out plenty of reminders about this!! PLEASE be very specific when sending me your order, I’d like a list with direct links to each item so we make sure we don’t screw anything up, there’s no returns!

Questions, comments, thoughts, ideas welcome!

Naked Juice to Pay Customers $75 Each for Selling Mislabeled GMO Juice

31 Aug 2013 Leave a comment

by ecofriendlymamausa in Eco-friendly living, Resources

I just filed a claim…

The settlement website, NakedJuiceClass.com allows individuals who purchased the products in question between Sept. 27, 2007 and Aug. 19, 2013, including Green Machine, to submit a claim, whether or not they still have proof of purchase. “People who bought Naked Juice and still have a proof of purchase are entitled to a cash payment of up to $75 while those without proof are eligible for up to $45, depending on how much you spent on Naked Juice,” reports ABC News.

Full article: http://www.organicauthority.com/blog/organic/naked-juice-to-pay-customers-75-each-for-selling-mislabeled-gmo-juice/?utm_source=Organic+Authority+Newsletter&utm_campaign=7ad8ee2518-OA_Newsletter_August_31_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_849b3e5b6e-7ad8ee2518-64855337

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