Family Finds -- April 2011
by Houston Family Magazine
SPARSAM low-energy bulbs, which last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs while reducing energy consumption by up to 80%, have proved to be a great alternative. Plus, one 20-watt bulb provides as much light as a 100-watt incandescent bulb, without getting anywhere near as hot. Available at IKEA for $3.99 each.
GREENZYS, a new eco-friendly literary-based children’s brand that is environmentally safe, fun and educational, is a way to teach children how to respect the world they live in. Featured characters include Peat the Penguin, an ardent supporter of recycling, reusing and reducing waste; Yew Yew the Panda, who grows bamboo to prevent erosion and create oxygen; Willow the Elephant, who collects rainwater for her plants and uses her trunk as a water hose; and Violet the Giraffe, the ecological genius who teaches the GREENZYS how to reduce their carbon paw print in an effort to protect the environment. Available for $19.99 at FAO.com.
Adorned with positive and uplifting messages such as LAUGH OFTEN, BALANCE, TODAY MATTERS and PRACTICE GRATITUDE, Tees for Change sustainable tees will inspire you to stay positive, make a difference for our planet and to give back. For every tee purchased, they plant a tree through their partnership with Trees for the Future. $34 – $42 from www.teesforchange.com.
Suncoat’s water-based nail polish nail polish releases water vapor when applied, not chemical fumes. Virtually odor free. No toluene, formaldehyde, phthalate, and most of all, no acetates. Colored with mineral based colorants and carmine. Free of synthetic FD&C dyes. Available for $9.99 at www.suncoatproducts.com.
This chair allows you to maintain yoga-straight posture while working at your desk. Fun and good for your health! Balance Ball Chair System, $120, www.gaiam.com.
An aesthetically pleasing alternative to a traditional clothesline. Save money on utilities while enjoying the feel and scent of sun-dried clothes. Umbrella Clothes Dryer, $169.99, www.gaiam.com.
A sturdy, colorful, easy-to-clean toy likely to become your pup’s new favorite. Made from 100% recycled rubber. ZOGOFlex Zisc, $12-$17, One Green Street, 5160 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77005.
An all-organic, delicious-smelling balm for your pet’s rough paws. Fast-acting and long-lasting. Awesome Apple Paw Balm, $6.00, www.onegreenstreet.com or One Green Street, 5160 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77005.
This signature blend from Houston’s own Supple Skin Boutique is subtly fruity without being overly sweet. Great for making iced tea—garnish your glass with fresh fruit for a springtime pick-me-up. Black Lychee Tea, $6.99, suppleskinboutique.com or Supple Skin Boutique, 2368 Rice Boulevard, Houston, TX 77005.
A scrumptious-smelling bath addition that also soothes and moisturizes skin. Tea may also be used as a skin scrub and exfoliant. Calming Peaches Bath Tea, $6.99, suppleskinboutique.com or Supple Skin Boutique, 2368 Rice Boulevard, Houston, TX 77005.
A fresh-smelling pillow made from all-organic materials. Comes in three sizes with three different fill densities. Organic Cotton Pillow, $69-$109, www.newliving.net or New Living, 6111 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77005.
