Final Ecocentric Mom Review

 

Yes, sadly, this will be my last Ecocentric Mom review. I have had such a great time being a part of the expert blogger team and receiving goodies to review and share with you, but my time has come to move on. This past year was a very busy one and after some R&R this Summer, I’ve realized the need to slow down a bit. With a new school year around the corner, I am looking forward to new projects and responsibilities. However, the focus on my priorities and time management will be much clearer. Family comes first and Ecocentric Mom has played a big role for me in making sure I do not forget that.

As a busy mom it can be difficult to find the time to ensure you are providing your family (and yourself!) with the healthiest and safest options. That’s where Ecocentric Mom subscription boxes can help. Every other month you will get a box of organic, natural and healthy products right at your doorstep. You can discover and learn about some of the healthiest snacks, safest bath products and cosmetics, and so much more.

Being a Birth and Postpartum Doula, I want to make sure I keep up-to-date with what’s out there for new moms and little ones too. So, without further ado, check out the great products I received in my July/August “Mom-to-Be” Ecocentric Mom Box…..

Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Cream Foundation ~ this has become one of my favorite make-up lines thanks to Ecocentric Mom. I’ve tried their lipstick and glosses and love them. While I’m not a foundation fan, this stuff works great….super lightweight, all-natural and contains SPF-28. I received a 3 pack travel size worth $1.40.

Savannah Red Lip Balm ~ this balm comes in a variety of flavors. I received the Beautiful Sugar and love how it smells. Best of all, the natural and organic ingredients leave my lips feeling so soft. One tube of lip balm sells for $2.99. I also received a 20% online discount code.

Bears Beauty Belly Balm ~ This organic skincare line will be a great recommendation for my doula clients. Hand-made, chemical free and made with organic hemp oil, this vegan belly balm is a safe choice for your baby. I received a travel size balm worth $1.50 and a 15% online discount code.

Bathtime Baby Hair & Body Wash ~ Another great recommendation for my doula clients, this baby skincare line is free of parabens, glycols, petroleum, sulfates, fragrances, dyes, and all that toxic stuff that can be harsh and damaging to your baby’s delicate skin. It is made with organic plant and fruit extracts, nourishing vitamins, antioxidants, and other ingredients that are safe and gentle and care for your little one. Bathtime Baby is also made in the U.S.A., is vegan and comes in BPA & Phthalate free packaging. I received a 3 oz. bottle which sells for $7.50, along with a 20% online discount code.

Water Wipes All-Natural Baby Wipes ~ This is the second time I receive Water Wipes in my Ecocentric Mom Box…but I’m not complaining! In fact, they are the brand I recommend the most. These are truly the purest baby wipes ever…made with 99.9% water and just a drop of fruit extract. I received a 10 wipe travel pack which sells for 99 cents. They can now be found at most major retailers, including walgreens.com and diapers.com.

Happy Baby Meal Time Board Book ~ This adorable book would make a great gift for any new mom and baby, especially when it is time to introduce solid foods to your little one. The bright pictures and clever words will keep baby entertained and expose him or her to meal time fun and reading. The board book sells for $9.95.

eInvite Sample Personalized Cards & Stationery ~ I received 5 sample fold top cards and a 20% online discount code which introduced me to eInvite.com. The site offers a great line of personalized stationery. You will find baby related stationary, like shower invitations and birth announcements, all customizable and all made in the USA. Visit http://www.einvite.com for more info.

AROMAFLAGE Botanical Fragrance & Insect Repellent ~ Now that I’m back on the East Coast for the end of Summer and its humidity, I will definitely be putting this to use to keep those pesky mosquitoes away. It is free of synthetic fragrances, parabens and other toxic chemicals. The cedar wood, vanilla, citrus and Vitamin E combination even make it smell good, unlike most natural insect repellents. I received a travel size sample worth $3.75.

The Natural Suburban Spices and Teas ~ I received a sample of “Summer Herb Garden Savory Spice”, as well as “Need a Little Sunshine in my Day Tea.” While I have not used either yet, I love that they are handcrafted, all-organic blends. I also received a 20% online discount code.

Yogavive Apple Chips ~ Last, but certainly not least (considering I opened these first!), I received a regular bag of chocolate flavored apple chips. Not sure if it was the chocolate or the Yoga that caught my attention first. Regardless, this healthy snack is made with USDA certified organic Fuji apples and are 100% fat free…tasty too! A bag sells for $4.49.

There you have it…another box of great finds, thanks to Ecocentric Mom. If you are thinking of signing up for a subscription box service, I highly recommend you give them a try. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

For more information and to subscribe visit the Ecocentric Mom website.

Debest for Baby

As a Certified Birth Doula, I am always on the look out for the latest and greatest for mom and baby. When I was recently asked to check out the Debest line of naturally colored baby garments, I couldn’t resist. I received the adorable “Ruffles in Bloom” 2-piece set pictured above and was immediately impressed by the quality. The material is soft and durable to the touch.

A baby’s skin is so sensitive that it is important to consider not just what products you use on their skin, but the dyes and materials in their clothing and bedding as well. The naturally colored cotton in Debest baby garments is organically grown, making it softer to the skin than conventional white cotton. It is also free from harmful chemicals and dyes commonly used in production. With Debest you can protect your baby’s skin and health, while helping to protect the environment.

Over the years I have made an effort to look for organic baby clothing and products to recommend to clients or when shopping for little ones. One thing I’ve noticed is that naturally colored and organic baby clothes tend to lack in variety and style. This is where Debest impressed me even more. I love the colors and flowered pattern of the outfit above. Their other selections are just as cute and stylish. You will find short and long-sleeve options, two-piece sets, sleepers, and blankets in different patterns and styles for girls and boys. Prices and shipping costs are very reasonable and when you sign-up you’ll receive 25% off your first purchase! Whether you’re shopping for a unique gift or buying clothes for your little one, I highly recommend Debest. Your baby deserves only the best!

More Good News! I’ve got an exclusive discount code for TLGP readers…

Purchase $50 or more and receive an extra $10 off. Just enter GREENMAMA10 at check out. Offer expires on 7/15/2014.

For more info and to shop the Debest line visit their WEBSITE,

Follow them on TWITTER, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST.

 

Summer Surprises from Ecocentric Mom

My May/June Ecocentric Mom boxes arrived this week and, once again, they are packed with stuff I have already started putting to good use.  This time around, I received both the “Mom” Discovery box and the “Mom-to-Be” box. While I’m not expecting (yet!), as a Doula I like to know and share the latest safe and eco-friendly products available for mama and baby. This month I discovered some great new stuff. Check it out…

May/June Ecocentric “Mom” Box

~Playmaker Nutrition All Natural Gummy Vitamins – So far, this might be the best surprise I’ve ever gotten through my Ecocentric Mom boxes….TWO full-size bottles of Playmaker Nutrition! I received the multi-vitamin, as well as the Calcium Vitamin D. These typically sell for $13.99 per bottle! Talk about this subscription box paying for itself! Best part is…my daughter loves them. I love them because they give my active 7 year old extra nutrients she might need without any added junk most vitamins contain…and they are made in the USA. I also received a 20% discount code.

~Licious Organics Raw Honey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie – what a great treat. These unbaked cookies come from an old family recipe and are made with only the finest ingredients. They are gluten, soy and wheat free and made with organic chocolate, cocoa, vanilla, peanut butter…and Utah Pink Salt. You would swear they were baked. Each cookie costs $1.20. I also received a 10% discount code.

~All Natural Chocolate Caramel Swirl by The Lovely Candy Co. – sweet treats! Love that these are made with all natural ingredients and contain no GMOs, no gluten or soy, and no high-fructose corn syrup. My daughter and I truly enjoyed the soft, buttery chocolate caramel. I received 6 caramels. A full 6oz bag sells for $3.99-$4.99.

~Boiron Arnicare Gel -another favorite. I am a big fan of Boiron products and recently purchased the Arnicare Gel. It works great for when my daughter gets those inevitable bumps and bruises from playing in the school yard. Arnica montana is a homeopathic remedy that helps with muscle pain, stiffness, swelling and bruising. The gel is unscented, non-greasy, absorbs quickly and is paraben-free. I received the travel-size which sells for $1.99 and will be taking with me on my Summer travels. A full size sells for $10.99.

~The Sili Squeeze with Eeeze – what a great invention. This reusable squeeze pouch is ideal for toddlers and school-aged children. It is made of 100% toxin-free materials and has a free-flowing spout, making it safe and easy for them to use. You can fill it with smoothies, yogurt, applesauce and the like. Perfect for school lunches. I received one Sili Squeeze which sells for $14.99, along with a 10% discount code.

~ORGLAMIX All-Natural “Hot Mama” Eye Shadow – I love getting make-up samples and learning that there is a big variety out there that is safer than conventional brands. Orglamix is free of parabens, sulfates, synthethic fragrances and dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs and Triclosan. The eye shadow I received is the perfect natural shade I typically use. It sells for $9. I also received a 20% discount code.

~Antioxidant Rich Organic Nightly Repair Nectar by La Mav – I received a sample of this serum and used a little the same night. I have to say, I noticed a little boost in my tone and firmness almost immediately. It contains omega 3 and 6 in Acai Pulp Oil and Lingonberry Oil and is formulated to fight signs of aging and protect skin. I’m hoping this “natural botox” really does help smooth fine lines and wrinkles with continued use. The full size sells for $49.95. I also received a 10% discount code.

~Monarch Farm Rose Complete Rejuvenating Face Cream – Another great skincare product! I used this face cream just this morning and my face felt very moisturized and soft. It absorbs quickly and smells like a beautiful bouquet of fresh roses. It is made with Rose petal infused Rosehip Seed Oil, Rose Absolute & Rose Hydrosol, all formulated to regenerate the skin and fight the advancement of skin aging. I received the  travel size which sells for $5. There is also a 1.75 oz for $15 and a 4 oz for $25. I also received a 15% discount code.

~Rise & Shine Organic Coffee Body Scrub by Simply Rustic – I love coffee, but coffee on the skin? YES! This scrub will truly awaken your skin. It is 100% natural, loaded with antioxidants, and has so many benefits. The caffeine can help reduce inflammation from fluid build up, promote circulation and even breakdown fat cells! I received a $3 value travel size. A full 8 oz size sells for $12. I also received a 20% discount code.

~LrCrem Naturals “LeRevital Riche Body Souffle” – I love this stuff! It feels so light and fluffy on your skin and has such a pleasant, light, cherry scent. It leaves your skin feeling revived, moisturized and soft. Best of all, it is all natural…made with neem, rosemary, jojoba, avocado and essential oils. There are no extra additives, petroleum or parabens. I received a travel size which sells for $3. The full size (8oz) sells fo $24. I also received a 10% discount code.

~Wild Orange Natural Organic Solid Deodorant by Natures Natural – Finding the right natural and/or organic deodorant can be a challenge. Well, thanks to Ecocentric Mom, this is the 2nd deodorant I learn about that truly works for me! It has a great citrus scent and is 100% organic. I wore it all day today and it did the job! I received a travel size which values at $1.95. The full size sells for $5.95.

~Along with all these goodies, I also received a $15 gift card for KISS ME ORGANICS.

~Last, but not least….the topics for the Ecocentric Mom May/June Expert Tips Postcard were: “Eco-Friendly Picnics” and “A fun family workout that you can do with kids of any age.”

As if all that wasn’t enough, I also received the “Mom-to-Be” box,which included several of the same items, but some great new finds too…

May/June Ecocentric “Mom-to-Be” Box

~Sunshine Organic Herbals Healing Herbal Sitz Bath – this will make a great recommendation for my doula clients. This blend of healing herbs will help reduce postpartum inflammation, aches and pains and help speed up the healing process. I received a 1 oz bag that sells for $4. There is a 1/2 lb bag available for $16 or a full pound for $30. I also received a 10% discount code.

~Ancestry Shampoo Bar by SoapMuffin Organic and Holistic Products – I have yet to use this but love it already. It is made with raw coconut milk, fresh herbs and….the secret ingredient…clay. This shampoo bar claims to be rich in lather, leave your hair soft and manageable, and rinse out with no residue. If for some reason it does not live up to its claims, I’ll make sure to update my post! 😉 I received a travel size sample. A full bar sells for $5.

~Novena Organic Anti-Aging Mineral Sun Block SPF 30 – A few months back I received a sample of Novena’s Eye Gel in my Ecocentric Mom Box and fell in love with it. I know I will definitely be putting this sunscreen to use this Summer too. It is made using high quality ingredients that are safer and more effective than conventional brands. I received a full size which sells for $26.99.

~Knocked Up Nails – Exclusive 50% Ecocentric Mom Discount Offer to shop online for this pregnancy-safe nail polish line that has been featured on E! TV, Baby Talk Magazine, American Baby Magazine, etc.

The following items were featured in the “Mom” box as well:

~Licious Organics Raw Honey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie

~All Natural Chocolate Caramel Swirl by The Lovely Candy Co.

~ORGLAMIX All-Natural “Hot Mama” Eye Shadow

~Antioxidant Rich Organic Nightly Repair Nectar by La Mav 

~Monarch Farm Rose Complete Rejuvenating Face Cream

~LrCrem Naturals “LeRevital Riche Body Souffle”

~Wild Orange Natural Organic Solid Deodorant by Natures Natural

~Expert Tips Card

As usual, I was introduced to several products that I will most likely use again. Just about every single one I would recommend to clients, friends and family. If you’re interested in a subscription box service or know someone who would love to receive goodies every-other-month, I highly recommend Ecocentric Mom.  They never disappoint.

Hyland’s New DEFEND

I am a big promoter and believer of homeopathic and natural remedies. Since my 7 year old was an infant, I have relied on the Hyland’s brand for her immune system needs. With Spring season arriving, the change in weather also means colds and the flu have joined us again. My daughter caught a cold just last week. Luckily, after being contacted to sample their newest line, I had some Hyland’s DEFEND Severe Cold & Flu on hand.

A box of Hyland’s DEFEND comes with 8 packets of quick-dissolving powder that can be added to some warm or hot water. The natural lemon and honey flavor is light and soothing. Best of all, Hyland’s DEFEND Severe Cold & Flu is dye free and contains no artificial flavors, preservatives or sweeteners. It is made with only natural ingredients and is non-habit forming. When taken at the first sign of illness, Hyland’s DEFEND will work with your body’s natural healing process to safely and effectively relieve symptoms of colds and the flu, including: runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, fever, chills, headaches, and body aches.

In less than two days of taking Hyland’s DEFEND Severe Cold & Flu, my little one felt a whole lot better. Her runny nose never progressed to any major nasal congestion and the only thing that lingered for the rest of the week was a minor cough. All other symptoms were gone! I took some along with her during those first two days, just to give my own immune system a boost and avoid catching her cold. I think it worked. 😉 I am very happy to have been introduced to this newest Hyland’s product. What I like best is that my whole family can benefit from it. We can fight off illness and avoid yucky, toxic chemicals found in most conventional brands. I definitely plan on keeping Hyland’s DEFEND stocked in my medicine cabinet.  The new line also includes a natural cough syrup and sinus relief products.

One Hyland’s product that I’ve had on hand for years is their Calms Forte Sleep Aid. It’s not uncommon to feel restless at bedtime when you’re suffering from a cold or the flu. This is when using Calms Forte, along with DEFEND Severe Cold & Flu, can be very beneficial. Calms Forte is non-habit forming, natural and gentle on the body. It is safe for children as young as 6 years of age.  My husband and I have used it ourselves when we’ve needed a little stress and tension relief in order to get a better night’s sleep. It has also come in very handy when our family travels and suffers from jetlag. It helps you wake up feeling rested, without that groggy feeling most over-the-counter sleep aids can cause.

If you’re looking for safer and convenient alternatives to keep your family healthy and boost their immune system, I highly recommend the Hyland’s brand.

For more info visit their WEBSITE and

Follow them on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, PINTEREST and YOU TUBE.

 

Mom-to-Be Discoveries

If subscription boxes are something you’ve been considering, this is the year to do it and Ecocentric Mom is the one to subscribe to for great savings and products! Right now is the perfect time to sign-up for even more savings. If you subscribe before Feb. 15th, you can get 10% off when you use checkout code: ECOMOM10%OFF and follow the special link: HERE.

Every other month I look forward to what new healthy, green and organic products I will discover. Just look at all the great stuff I got in the January/February “Mom-to-Be” Ecocentric Mom Box….

Pretty Mommies Let’s Be Clear Facial Cleanser ~ This all natural cleanser is going to definitely be one I recommend to my Doula clients. When you’re pregnant, avoiding toxins is extremely important for mom and baby. Pretty Mommy products are free of parabens, formaldehyde, sulfate, phthalate, dimethicone, petroleum, phenoxyethanol, oxybenzone, artificial fragrances and dyes. I received a full size cleaner that sells for $30 and a 20% off online discount code.

GRANDMA’s Pure and Natural Lye Soap ~ Coincidentally, I was given the opportunity to review Grandma’s Lye Soap just last month. It is an all natural soap free of detergents, dyes, fragrances and other chemicals found in conventional skin care products. It helps to alleviate symptoms of several skin conditions. To read my review: Click Here. I received a travel size bar in my box which sells for $1.49. A full size bar sells for $5. I also received a 20% off discount code and free samples of other products with purchase.

Pure + Remedy Vitamin C Facial Serum & “Precious Drops” Super Hydrating Serum ~ Another coincidence! Back in August, I received samples of the Pure + Remedy facial moisturizer line in my Ecocentric Mom box, but had not gotten around to sampling them until about a week ago. (To read my review: Click Here) It’s been great to incorporate the facial serum and precious drops into my skin regimen as well. Pure + Remedy is a great line that offers high quality holistic skin care products that are free of toxins and  definitely improve the appearance and texture of your skin. The Vitamin C Facial Serum travel size I received sells for $9.50 and the Precious Drops Hydrating Serum travel size sells for $10.50. I also got a 20% online discount code.

LIPS by Healthy Houseful ~ In the middle of this harsh winter we are having on the East Coast I happily welcome whatever chapstick I can get my lips on. Of course, avoiding toxic ingredients found in most conventional brands is key to healthy lips. Well, LIPS lip balm is made with coconut oil, shea butter and essential oils. This combo of healthy and organic ingredients makes for fast relief and beautiful lips. I received a full size chapstick which sells for $3 and a 15% discount code.

pur-Absorb Iron ~ We all know how important enough iron is, especially if you’re having a baby. It’s also very important to consider just how much iron your body is actually absorbing. The thing is, not all people or iron supplements are created equal. You always want to check with your Doctor on your ideal levels.  I was pleasantly surprised to receive a full size box with 28 packets of high absorption, 100% natural, liquid iron supplement. This box sells for $19.99 and I received a $2 retail coupon. This is another product I will be recommending to my Doula clients.

Sjaak’s Organic Fair Trade Chocolate Hearts ~ Just in time for Valentine’s Day, it was a sweet treat to be able to sample these yummy chocolate hearts. Supporting sustainable agriculture, fair trade practices, and a positive work environment are important to me. These little organic non-GMO chocolates can make such a big impact. They sell for only 65 cents per heart and I received 3.

Heart Bracelet by House of Metalworks ~ My favorite item in the box….a special Valentine’s Day gift just for me! Because these bracelets are handmade, each one is unique. No two are alike and they are made in the U.S.A. using reclaimed and recycled metals. One bracelet sells for $12 and I received a 10% online discount.

Ecocentric Mom Jan/Feb Expert Tips ~ As usual, my subscription box is not complete without the Ecocentric Mom Expert Tips postcard. The topics for this month are: “Resolutions…or Goals for 2014” and “Tips to Stay on Track with your New Year’s Resolution Goals”

JuJu Band for Babies

As a Doula, I often get asked for advice on baby products and methods to soothe “colic”.  I am a firm believer in babies communicating through different cries.  Therefore, I think “colic” is really just a way of saying that you’re not sure why the baby is fussy or crying.  A very common reason for “colicky” newborns is gas. This is primarily due to babies’ digestive systems not being fully developed for a few months. Their bellies are adjusting to different forms and methods of nutrition.

Speaking of baby’s belly, parents sometimes also worry about their newborn’s belly button.  We want to keep it protected and make sure the umbilical stub does not get wet or fall off in an unnatural way. Well, I was recently introduced to a great product that addresses both baby belly issues!

JuJu Band is based on an ancient tradition called baby belly binding.  It has been practiced for many years by many different cultures around the world.  The JuJu Band company designs related products for the modern, busy parent.  Their Belly Binder comes in a variety of cute designs, is easy to use, machine washable, and made with 100% cotton in the U.S.A.  Best of all, it is a natural alternative in treating your baby and is multi-functional!  At around $15, it is a great deal too.

First, the JuJu Belly Binder can be used as a newborn naval protector by placing it under the baby’s clothes and around his or her body, like a belt, to protect the belly button from constant friction and exposure.  This can help reduce the chances of infection or irritation.  It is said that it can even help give your baby the “perfect innie” belly button.  Then, what I think serves as the best purpose, the Belly Binder can also help relieve an infant’s colic or soothe a fussy baby.  By placing it snuggly over the baby’s clothes, the warmth and slight pressure on the belly can help to alleviate gas or colic. Some babies may cry or be fussy simply because they want to be held and cuddled more than other babies. The Belly Binder can help with this too as the warmth and snug fit can be calming and serve the same purpose as the “burrito wrap” that some babies seem to take comfort in.

I have been known to recommend gripe water for gassy or colicky babies, but now that I know about JuJu Band I’ve been sharing it with my clients and other expectant mothers. There has been a lot of positive feedback. I recently gifted one to a friend and she just had her baby. I’m looking forward to hearing how well it works for her too.

For more info visit the JuJu Band Website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

October Mom Goodies

I think this may be a record-breaking month. I received my Ecocentric Mom Subscription Box for October just last week and not even 3 days later, I tried ALL my goodies!  This wasn’t even a matter of wanting to sample them, but more that I NEEDED most of the items.  Check out my October Mom Goodies:

FiberLove Bars ~ When I opened my Mom Box, this is the first thing I grabbed. I was on my way to a Yoga class and starving.  The chocolate brownie FiberLove Bar saved me.  Not only is it high in fiber, non-GMO, kosher, and Vegan, but this is probably one of the first “brownie” bars that actually tastes like one! So yummy. I also received a cinnamon raisin flavored bar. One bar typically sells for $1.99.

Ruger Gluten Free/Wheat Free/GMO Free Wafers ~ After all the Halloween candy we ate, it was nice to indulge in a “healthy” treat. These wafers are made with Teff Flour, a Super Grain which was recently featured on Dr. Oz.  These are a great alternative to conventional candy, cookies, treats and other snacks. My daughter really liked them. I received one pack of chocolate wafers which sell for $1.29

Lilapops ~ This was a great surprise. At first glance I thought it was just a lolipop. Turns out they are natural cough drops too, made with honey and marshmallow root. This was perfect…my daughter was battling a cough as she got over a cold, but refused to take the natural cough drops I offered because of the taste.  I handed her one of these and she thought they were just a lolipop too. 🙂 I received 2 pops. A bag of 15 sells for $8.99.

RW Garcia Curry & Mango Dipping Chips ~ I had just made a guacamole salsa the day before so this was another case of perfect timing. This chip blend of spicy curry and sweet mango is so unique and tasty, you really could skip the dip. I finished the whole snack bag myself! 😉  Best of all they are natural, gluten-free and non-GMO. One snack size bag sells for $2.99.

Salba Chia Seeds ~ I threw a pack of these right into my smoothie today for lunch. It’s such an easy way to get Omega-3 (ALA), fiber and minerals. The Salba Chia seed is known for being very high quality. Non-Gmo too! One pack sells for $1. I received two.

Stur Natural Water Enhancer ~ Yet another easy way to get nutrients. This natural Stevia liquid adds flavor to, sometimes boring, water plus 7 essential vitamins. No calories! This is a great way to make sure we drink plenty of water. I received a bottle of the strawberry flavored enhancer. It is available in several flavors at $5 per bottle.

Miss Tea Certified Organic Loose Leaf Tea ~ I tend to drink a lot more tea during the Fall and Winter months. I was so excited to get an adorable small glass jar of Oolong tea, a traditional Chinese tea that is a little fruity and sweet. Miss Tea is known for it’s high quality loose leaf teas and herbal infusions. They are packed by hand and vacuum sealed in glass to keep the leaves and flowers as intact as possible, maintaining freshness and health benefits. Non-GMO. One jar sells for $12.

Aquatowel ~ I always carry wipes in my purse but had been out for a few days.  I received 5 individual packs of Aquatowel and through them right into my purse. The very next day, while at a “cooking” birthday party for kids, I was able to sample one. This is a very versatile towel. Unlike regular wipes, these wet towels are made of 97.4% water and are quite durable. I was able to wipe my daughter’s face, hands and then the table, all with one towel. I love that it doesn’t contain any of those harsh chemicals found in conventional wipes and that they come individually wrapped to ensure moisture and sanitation. A pack of 5 sells for $2.50.

Rockin’ Green Eco Friendly Laundry Detergent ~ Another life-saver. I was out of laundry detergent, so I decided to give this a try before going to the store. So glad I did. I love this stuff. I always look for green detergents that work well and are also safe for my family. It’s not an easy task. Rockin’ Green is definitely rockin’. It’s biodegradable, dye-free, phosphate free, SLS & Paraben free, gluten free, vegan, made in the USA and scented naturally! It’s also cost effective. All I needed to add was 2 tbs of the powder and it left my clothes clean and smelling fresh. No residue from the powder. Works with all machine types. I received 2 packets of the Classic Rock Motley Clean. (Love the rock theme!) A full size bag sells for $15.95.  I can say I’m now a groupie. 😉

Unboxed Art, “The Earth, the Alphabet and Me” Book ~ I was so surprised to find a book in my box. My daughter picked it right up and read it. She loved it. She even said to me, “Mom, this book has really good ways to be green.” Yes, my heart melted. 🙂 Unboxed Art also creates unique poetry, illustrations, jewelry, and other eco-friendly artwork at affordable prices. The book I received sells for $12.95.

Of course, along with all my goodies, I received coupons and online discount codes for just about every single item. I also got my Ecocentric Mom Monthly Expert Tips card. This month the topics were “A Green Halloween” and “October is Non GMO Month”.  This is a truly great subscription box service. So, if you’ve been thinking about signing up…what are you waiting for?  Just click here. 😉

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MOM WOW Summit 2013

On October 6-8th 2013, the first ever Moms Meet WOW Summit took place in Philadelphia at the Sheraton Society Hill. The conference was open to all moms, or moms-to-be, interested in networking and learning more about raising healthy families. Tickets ranged from $149 for a day pass to $249 for a Full Summit Pass. Moms Meet Bloggers qualified for discounted rates and Early Bird discounts were also available. The event kicked off on Sunday night, with a cocktail reception sponsored by Zevia at the hotel’s Taste Restaurant.

The clever cocktails made with my favorite healthy soda were a big hit with everyone!

The following two days, as a Mom Ambassador for greenmomsmeet.com, I joined fellow moms, moms-to-be, and Green Blogger Moms as we were treated to a variety of seminars, workshops, products reviews, giveaways and even an awards banquet. Guest speakers included: Dr. Lawrence Rosen, Green pediatrician; Jess Kolko, Registered dietitian and educator with Whole Foods Market; Paige Wolf, Mom Blogger and Author living in Philly, and several others. Topics included: natural parenting, healthy eating, holistic remedies, and much more.

Every attendee also received a t-shirt and eco gift bag. The best part, however, visiting the Exhibitors hall and filling up that tote bag! The room was lined with tables of some of our favorite brands, as well as some new ones. The friendly and generous representatives made sure we sampled all the great products and filled our bags with green, natural and organic products to take home with us. (See some of them in the slideshow below.)

In its first year, Moms Meet and KIWI Magazine organized a great event. Can’t wait to see what they bring us next year. For more info and to keep up-to-date with next year’s WOW Summit: Click Here

Enjoy the slide show. 🙂

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Cherokee USA Clothing for Kids

While packing for a recent Summer vacation, I couldn’t help but get frustrated at how much darn clothes my soon-to-be 7 year old daughter has! Gifts from family and friends keep her closet full. I greatly appreciate it. However, the problem I run into is the way most kid’s clothing fits.  My daughter is very slender and it just seems like most clothes designers assume all kids are chubby. As much as I wish all her clothes could be eco-friendly and organic, it would definitely break my bank.  This is where I don’t mind bending a little. When I personally shop for her, I try to look for clothes that are made with high quality materials, are durable, fit her well, and are affordable.

One such label, that is VERY available to the average shopper, is Cherokee. The company has been around for years. You can find their children’s clothing at Target and other stores worldwide.  I have to admit, even this Green Mama likes shopping at Target on occasion. I’ve found some really great stuff there at low prices.

What I love about Cherokee clothing for kids is that my daughter really likes them. The sizing seems to always be on point. She says they are very comfortable.  Most of their clothing is made with 100% cotton and is very soft, but yet can withstand a lot of playtime and several washes. We both love that their styles are very current. We recently got a few new styles to sample and she is in love. The dresses and top are things I would love to have in my OWN closet.

Of course, what makes or breaks the purchase is the price. With cute tops averaging $10 or less and pretty dresses averaging $15 or less, you can’t go wrong. (Even better bargains when they’re on clearance!) We all know how frustrating it can be to buy clothes for our little ones and they only wear them once, or maybe never get to, because they grow so fast.  Right now, prices for Cherokee uniforms are practically unbeatable. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get some great back-to-school deals with Cherokee. Remember to donate and recycle when they outgrow their clothes!

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Green Your Family’s Fashion

I have to share about this great line of organic, eco-friendly clothes I recently learned about. IMAGINE Green Wear makes clothing for the entire family using 100% organic materials which are processed with eco-friendly materials.  Not only do they use GOTS certified organic cotton to make clothes, but they also use low impact seaweed based dyes to decorate them!  What does this mean for your family? It means you get a fashion line that will keep them safe from toxic chemicals, as well as protect the environment.

What makes this line even more special are the unique and beautiful designs….all done by hand! They offer everything from casual tees to stylish tops and tunics. I love the combination of colors and how soft the garments feel against your skin. My daughter loves that each shirt has a different design on both the front and the back.

 

IMAGINE Green Wear is 100% made in the USA…based out of Fairxfax, VA. They make clothes for babies, children, women and men….the whole family!  Right now you can receive a special 15% discount when you use  promo code OPEN4BIZ  (good until Sept. 15^th).

Going “green” is not just a fashion trend. It is a statement and lifestyle that will continue to gain popularity and never go out of style.

For more info and to do some shopping:

Visit the IMAGINE Green Wear Website

Follow them on Facebook and Twitter

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• 1MW Guide to Sustainable Fabrics – Organic Cotton (1millionwomenblog.com)
• IMAGINE GreenWear Organic Clothing Review and Giveaway (familyfocusblog.com)