itsyournature

By Wendy Gordon courtesy of Simple Steps

While there may be signs we’re not hurtling toward a depression, job losses continue at a disturbing pace and the economy remains a mess. But tough times offer interesting opportunities, as we all get a bit more creative in finding ways to do things we like and get things we need for less…including finding the perfect prom dress.

No, I’m not kidding. Proms are serious business, and yes, the dress has got to be fabulous, but these days of mass layoffs and company-wide pay freezes the price for a party dress can be more than a family can afford. So does it have to be new? Or might “pre-owned” (like a car) and worn only once or twice (as so many fancy party dresses are) be just as good or better—particularly if it’s free…

Check out Green Paws for ways to keep you and your pet safe, clean, and green!

Dr. Gina explains how to get rid of fleas and ticks in our home the natural way.

Submitted by ktfinklea on Wednesday, April 22, 2009.

Happy Earth Day! Check out these great earth-friendly tips below, courtesy of Simple Steps and pass them on to your friends!

There's plenty of reason for hope this Earth Day -- the United States seems ready to cap the pollution that causes global warming. But there's also a lot of work ahead to curb the damage already done. Here are four simple steps you can take that will have an immediate impact on the environment. By focusing on the areas that will have the most impact, you'll find that doing your part for a sustainable future isn't as difficult as you may have thought. It's that easy!

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Submitted by ktfinklea on Monday, February 23, 2009.

Thanks to our friends at Simple Steps and Lori Bongiorno's book "Green, Greener, Greenest", here's our latest blog on how to make cleaner, greener choices throughout your home.

You spend more than a quarter of your lifetime in bed, so it's not a bad idea to do what you can to assure that where you sleep is as healthy and comfortable as possible. Many mattresses are made with multiple chemicals such as polyurethane, synthetic fabrics, chemical fire retardants, toxic dyes, formaldehyde, and stain-resistant chemicals that can off-gas over time and may lead to allergic reactions and other health problems.

Linens are frequently made from conventional cotton and polyester, which is made from petroleum. They're often bleached white with chlorine, which spews toxic chemicals such as carcinogenic dioxins into the air that can ultimately land in our food…

Submitted by ktfinklea on Tuesday, January 6, 2009.

Already fallen off the wagon with your new year's resolutions? Not to worry, it's not to late to get back on track in the year of hope and change. Check out the blog below from our friends at Simple Steps, and see what simple changes you can make to revamp your year.

Resolutions for a Healthier and Greener 2009

This year, make a few resolutions that are easy to keep. Take a couple of these simple steps to be well, make smart choices and save a little money in 2009. And as always, now's the time to get rid of the old and make a fresh start. Find out which three things even the most avid environmentalist should throw in the trash.

Be well!
Walk or bike more. It's not only good for your health, it's good for everyone…

Want to know the healthiest way to get rid of fleas and ticks? Avoid nasty chemicals that cause serious problems in pets and humans by using easy, safe alternatives. Visit greenpaws.org for more info.

Flea and tick powder can be dangerous to you and your pets? Don't tell this rascally dog.

Submitted by ktfinklea on Tuesday, September 9, 2008.

Federer wins again! And so does Serena, the Bryan twins, and more!

The US Open finished up last night with the Men's Singles bout between Roger Federer and Andy Murray. If you had the chance to venture out to Queens to see any of this year's matches you may have noticed a few additions to the American Express or Evian booths. Thanks to a multi-year partnership between the NRDC and the USTA, the U.S. Open reworked its operations to allow for some eco-friendly initiatives. From specially designed organic tees, to renewable wind power and napkins made from 90% post consumer content, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center took a stab at decreasing their carbon footprint while increasing their stance as a champion for the environment within the sports world.

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Why are these puppies so happy? Their owner doesn't use those nasty flee & thick powders.