Zoë b Organic Weekly

Goodlight Natural Candles

2010-11-29T10:55:00.004-05:00

Wondering what that center piece should look like for your celebration? I highly recommend one that includes palm wax candles produced by Goodlight Natural Candles. These alternative products are not only affordable but your family will not be breathing a multitude of harmful chemicals given off by paraffin, a by-product of petroleum sludge. You can go green with your centerpieces. These beautiful candles burn long and bright. They are non-toxic and clean burning. Natural candles contain no additives or blends. They use cotton wicks which contain no metals. And all of their packaging is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks. To learn more go to http://www.naturalcandles.com/.

Tegu Blocks, Curiously Attractive!

2010-11-17T09:43:00.007-05:00

Here is an awesome twist on the standard wooden building blocks. The creations your child can make with Tegu blocks are only limited by their imaginations. These ingenious magnetic blocks are made of responsibly harvested hardwoods in Honduras and coated with safe water-based finishes. The magnets are safely embedded and the blocks meet all CPSIA standards. Tegu offers living wages and partners with local communities to support reforestation, donating a portion of revenue from each set sold. Take a look at their website at http://live.tegu.com/ and see amazing ideas come together right before your eyes. When you order, tell your friends about these blocks on facebook or twitter and you can get free shipping.

Global Green Pals, Inspiring and Creative!

2010-11-10T09:10:00.007-05:00

Malini Goel has created wonderful , eco-friendly, educational toys that can inspire your children towards positive environmental action. Global Green Pals highlight important environmental issues and introduce children to cultural diversity at an early age, with characters such as Carbon Offset Chet, Pink Coral Laurel and Pani Rani.

Each doll has it own delightful story and comes with detailed, colorful, removable clothing and mini accessories. This woman-owned, American-based company is committed to bringing children eco-friendly, educational toys that inspire positive world action through play and imagination. To find out more please visit them at http://globalgreenpals.com/.

Eco-Party Supply and Gifts

2010-11-02T11:34:00.005-04:00

The holidays are fast approaching. As we plan our celebrations aiming for a zero waste party can be challenging. EcoPartyTime can make taking the steps towards throwing an earth-friendlier party easier.

EcoPartyTime offers many eco-conscious choices for celebrations through-out the year including environmentally sustainable birthday, anniversery, baby-shower, and graduation party goods. Eco-party Time has many options for decorating your home without plastic including environment friendly tableware. Many of their items are designed to serve double or triple duty. For those of us working on a budget, they have fantastic prices. Save an additional 15% on your order by entering "zoeb15" as the coupon code when you check out at EcoPartyTime.com.

The Great Food Race

2010-10-27T06:57:00.006-04:00

The Creative Toy Shop has come out this year with several games that would make wonderful additions to the classic games that many households have enjoyed for years. The Great Food Race, Recycle It! and Yummy Scrummy are a few of the wonderful games for younger children that educate and teach healthy food choices and important environmental lessons. The pieces of each game are made of thick sturdy cardboard which allow your preschooler or Kindergartener to easily grasp and put together on their own.

The Great Food race focuses on healthy food choices. You earn or loose points according to the physical exertion of activities and food choice segments you land upon. The player receives points in increments of five which allows children to practice simple addition. You will want to be the first to cross the finishline but watch out for potato crisps and the cookies. Recycle It! and Yummy Scrummy are also fantastic games for preschoolers that offer many learning opportunities. All of the games are created with colorful, vivid images that grab attention and excite the little ones. You can find these games and many others at http://creativetoyshop.com/. Readers will receive a 15% storewide discount from the Creative Toy Shop through December 31! Some exceptions apply. Enter Zoe15 as the coupon code. Please note shipment to Canada is not available.

The Holidays without Wrapping Paper? It's possible.

2010-10-19T10:19:00.011-04:00

I find the holidays can be a bit overwhelming, the shopping, wrapping, cutting, taping. And then the terrific mess at the end. Did you know that Americans will dispose of 4 million tons of wrapping paper and shopping bags over the holidays? Most will not be recycle or reused. So, what can we do if we don't want to be part of the problem? If you are looking for something with a bit more class than paper bags and news paper to wrap those gifts, I have the perfect suggestions: Reusable wraps!

Bobo wraps are beautiful reuseable alternatives to paper. The concept of the wrapping scarves come mainly from Korea and Japan. Patricia Lee, founder and director of Bobo wraps, has evolved this concept into an artistic expression of elegance. There is no need for tape or sissors. It is so simple to use. Your holiday gifts could not look more beautiful. Our readers will receive 15% off orders by entering "zoeb15" as your coupon code at check out. Go to http://www.bobowrap.com/.

For a more modern twist on the reuseable wrapping try the Lyziwraps. These adjustable wraps conform to fit to a variety of shapes and packages. They are sporty, adjustable and washable, made of durable nylon fabrics that resist ripping. Simply slip your gift in and adjust the silk ties. Lyziwraps are also offering us 15% off orders by entering "zoe15" at checkout. Just go to Lyziwraps.com

It is possible to enjoy greener holidays and celebrate in eco-friendly style.

Green Your Halloween: CANDY!!!

2010-10-12T12:57:00.018-04:00

Every year, if you ask my children what their favorite part of Halloween is, the resounding answer will be, CANDY!! Yes, after the costumes, face painting and decorating is done, it is the candy that we delight in. And not just the little ones. I have been known to nibble a bite or two (or three) from their hefty bag of treats. Truth be told, they never get half of it and not because their parents are eating it. I simply can not stomach the thought of all the artificial color, chemical and sugared concoctions traveling through their systems. So, I've been doing a little candy research and have complied a list of my favorite treats to offer for a healthier alternative.

The chocolate mini produced by Equal Exchange is a wonderful item to hand out for Halloween. These chocolates are organic, fairly traded and super yummy! You can get $5 dollars off a box of these delicious chocolates today through October 20. Just enter zoehalloween as the coupon code at the Equal Exchange Retail Store online at http://shop.equalexchange.com/.

Betty Lou's is a fantastic place to get new items to pass out on this spookie occasion. You can find just about every alternative snack you might be interested in all year long. They have a sweet fix for every diet. If you call 1 800 242 5205 and let them know that you heard about Betty Lou's from us you can save 15% on your order.

Endangered Species Bug Bites is a super sweet way to educate and celebrate. These tasty chocolate tidbits are available right now at Mothernature.com for 15% off.

Pure Fun Candies are on the top of this list as well. They offer organic, fairly traded, kosher and vegan candies that are delicious. Plus their website is highly entertaining. You can find their candies available at many stores including Amazon.com.

Happy Halloween!!!

Green Your Halloween: Costume Ideas

2010-10-05T09:50:00.006-04:00

Every year for Halloween we always made our own costumes, sometimes it was our own creations and other times Mom got in there for detailed preparations. We could always take from what we had and come up with the most inventive costumes. I got one daughter through on homemade costumes but my sons are always struck with overwhelming desire for Spiderman, Power Rangers or something that I have not yet figured out how to make. I just have trouble stomaching the price of the costumes that will be worn once or twice and fall apart so easily.

As I began researching cool projects to intrigue my children, I ran across several great ideas, those "why didn't I think of that" kind of thing. Costume Swapping is among the best. You can check out registered locations at Green Halloween or even register your own swap. This site offers wonderful tips on how to organize your own neighborhood swap. National Costume Swap Day is schedule for this Saturday, October 9th. If you can't make it to a Costume Swap or just don't have time to get one pulled together don't forget good old Craigslist. It is always possible to find just what you need. Other awesome costume ideas can be gathered from Homemade Halloween Costumes. If you are looking for a clever book to sit and share with your children for Halloween and make believe any other time of the year Glue and Go Costume for Kids: Super Duper Designs with Everyday Materials is available at many bookstores. I am excited this year to see what we will come up with.

Spooneez, an Eco-Friendly Utensil Carrier

2010-09-29T09:19:00.024-04:00

As a parent, I often find myself trying to pack for a multitude of activities for the day. Most importantly snacks, utensils, and little treats. I can not count the number of times I have rolled up little dripping spoons and leftovers only to find myself reaching into a gooey messy later. Or even better, totally forgetting about this until I have to pry it loose from the inside of my bag.

This past weekend I had the great fortune of running across a most wonderful Mom invention called Spooneez. These nifty little utensil carriers allow you to roll up the mess. They are made of BPA, PVC, and Phthalate free laminate which is amazingly durable, machine washable and waterproof. Practical and stylish, the Spooneez comes in a variety of brilliant colors and fabrics. Each carrier has several individual compartments in which to slide your spoons and snacks. You simply fold, roll and secure the tie. When you clean up later you can wipe it down or toss it into the wash. But don't limit yourself to food, Spooneez is designed with versatility in mind. Since it is so simple to clean you can pack toiletries, markers or whatever else you may find commonly oozing in your bags. Try it out and get free shipping, just enter ZOEBFS at checkout.

Organic Plant Magic

2010-09-21T10:31:00.007-04:00

As the weather begins to cool, many of us turn our efforts to our final outdoor projects. I have been busy preparing a winter garden, landscaping and prepping container plants for their return indoors. Just recently I found a fantastic product called Organic Plant Magic which is non toxic and chemical free.

This all purpose organic plant food is alive with beneficial micro-organisms and is safe for your family and pets, as well as, your community. Organic Plant Magic can be used on lawns, for landscaping, in gardens and containers. It is water soluble so you can spray it. Each application treats 5,000 square feet. You can also stir it into your potting soil or compost. Giving the roots wonderful nutrients to feed upon. Furthermore, it guards plants from pest and disease. I am so impressed with this family business and their commitment to social responsibility. A commitment thoughtfully incorporated right into their packaging. Yes, even the bag can be composted in your home in just a matter of weeks. I am looking forward to incorporating Organic Plant Magic into my own gardens. Find out more at http://www.organicplantmagic.com/.

Eat Cleaner Wipes for Fruits and Vegetables

2010-09-15T09:07:00.005-04:00

Growing up I knew the hands that grew the bulk of the vegetables and fruits we ate. My parents and grandparents carefully cleaned and soaked everything before we "put it up for the winter". However, things are very different for my own family. I rarely know the people who have produced our bounty. Thinking about all the pesticides, bacteria, wax or simply the number of hands that touch our food, I was grateful to discover an all natural food wash called eat cleaner.

Grow Green Industries produces a variety of cleaners that you can use for all of your foods including meats. But what I was most excited about was the biodegradable cloth that can be purchased in bulk or as individuals. The wipes are made of Kosher certified ingredients. You simply wipe the fruit or vegetable and its clean and ready to eat. I tried it out this week and tasted nothing but the apple I was sinking my teeth into. I will definitely be carrying these wipes with me and packing them with my husband and children as well. Get a 25% discount at eatcleaner.com with coupon code FOEO479291.

Kidishes Square Bowl with Lid

2010-09-08T08:44:00.005-04:00

After many requests, I am happy to announce that the newest item to the Kidishes line is finally here. Zoë b Organic now offers the much awaited bowl with lid. I was personally thrilled to have an opportunity to try out this wonderful and most useful creation. This durable square bowl comes with a fitted lid that stays on tight. I tested this over the past holiday weekend packing them with snacks to carry on our family outings. I even tried water to see if the seal would hold. To my delight, it did! This bowl is perfect for packing leftovers, storing snacks, and its dishwasher and microwave safe. Both the lid and bowl are produced by Duralex in France. True to our mission the lid is also, BPA and phthalates free.
Zoë b Organic is offering a 10% off on all Kidishes products which will expire on September 22. Just enter code LID at checkout.

Toy Toy recycled cardboard chaise

2010-09-01T08:29:00.008-04:00

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. I am Shari Burrell, an active mother of three and a member of the Zoë b Organic team. This week I celebrate my first year with this wonderful company. I am proud to have the opportunity, not only to better the life of my family, but to offer other families healthy alternatives in today's market.

As a child, my brothers and I used to build all kinds of things from cardboard boxes; cars, houses, airplanes. Imagination was the limit. That childhood activity has taken an innovative twist with a new line of furniture developed by French Canadian designers Salome Strappazzon and Mikaël Mourgue. Their new eco-friendly Toy Toy chaise is made from recycled cardboard. These delightful chairs are decorated with environmentally friendly ink and require only the most simple assembly. Children will love working with you and the leftover cut outs from the single piece of cardboard can be used to design a variety of sculptures or toys. The Toy Toy sales for $19.99 but for the purchase of 3, our readers are being offered a $20 discount. Just go to Toy Toy and enter the coupon code TOYS2010, expires September 19, 2010.

The Goodbyn Lunchbox

2010-08-25T15:26:00.005-04:00

Finding an affordable, safe lunchbox made in the USA in next to impossible, until now. Goodbyn is the perfect choice. It's a better lunchbox, reinvented for kids, parents and the planet.

Features:

Separate Compartments- keeps taste and moisture where it should be

Comes with Two Sticker Sheets- let your child's creative flow as they personalize their lunchbox

Easy Carrying Handle- Slim design fits comfortably in backpack and locker

Dishwasher Safe

Recyclable- which makes it a truly waste-free lunch option

BPA and Phthalate Free- Made from #5 Polypropylene (lunchbox and bottle lid) and #2 High Density Polyethylene (bottle)

100% Domestic (USA) Conceived and Created

To Learn more about this company, business adventures and practices, visit their blog.

Goodbyn is offering a discount of $6.00 off

Use Code: bts2010 when ordering from their website

CHEJ's Back-to-School Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies

2010-08-11T08:41:00.022-04:00

Before you rush out and buy everything listed on your children's school supply list at your local market, you might want to do your homework first. Consider how much PVC they will be in contact with on a daily basis, almost every supply needed from pencils/pens to binders/backpacks are loaded with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) plastic. This guide identifies toxic products and suggests safer alternatives.

Subjects covered in this informational guide:

Why Shop for PVC-Free School Supplies

How to Identify PVC, the Poison Plastic

Where Does Your Child's PVC Lunchbox or Backpack Come From?

Quick Tips on Avoiding PVC School Supplies

PVC-Free Products and Suppliers

After reading your free down loadable guide, you will see it's easy and affordable to choose healthy school supplies free from toxins that are critical to your child's health and well-being.

Download CHEJ's PVC-free Back to School Guide

We also found a great eco-friendly company, Stubby Pencils Studio, which offers PVC-free crayons and many other non-toxic school supplies made from recycled materials.

They are offering our readers an online discount code for 10% off all orders valid until 12/31/10
Discount Code: ZOEB10

Help us design the next generation of beach toys

2010-08-10T06:10:00.007-04:00

I would like your help in designing our first product for Zoë b Toys: The world's first biodegradable and compostable beach toy set.

But I haven't yet decided on the exact design, colors, or price. That's where you come in. I am hoping you'll take just a few minutes to fill out a 3-page survey. (it's all multiple choice, and not to worry, there are no wrong answers.) With your help, the set will be available for Summer 2011. Thank you for your time!

Valerie Lecoeur

ZOE B TOYS SURVEY

Safe Munch School Lunch Eco-Fundraiser

2010-08-05T16:10:00.004-04:00

Each year we dutifully sign our little ones up try and raise money for a good cause. Wouldn't it be wonderful if this year, we not only did our part to raise money for the cause, but also were able to offer our friends, family and neighbors a way to help the environment by purchasing safe, affordable lunch gear instead of wrapping paper or cookies.

Safe Munch School Lunch Eco-Fundraiser has answered the call. This exciting new fundraising concept offers a nice range of BPA, PVC, Phthalate and Melamine-free lunch containers. All of which are reusable and waste-free which could enable the parents to pack a healthy school lunch for their precious little ones.

So how does it work?

You can choose to do website drives or catalog drives. Website drives are the quickest way for your organization to start earning money. Catalog drives are your traditional fundraiser with catalog and order forms available to download.

Have you seen the miYim Simply Organic: Dr. Suess Eco-Plush Collection?

2010-07-29T18:01:00.002-04:00

The Cat in the Hat and Horton have gone green! This line of Dr. Suess characters are made from cotton that's untreated, unprocessed, and unbleached, both products are at the top of the class when it comes to being planet friendly. They are colored with miYim's all-natural PureWaterWash process using only plants and minerals. These classics have passed extensive testing and are certified non-toxic. It’s nice to know there are safe alternatives for your children, even in their favorite characters.

Take a look at them HERE.

The Story of Cosmetics: The Scary Truth of Hidden Toxic Chemicals

2010-07-22T10:26:00.005-04:00

Did you ever stop to consider what is in all those products that we slather on our skin? What is that fragrance? How do I pronounce many of the ingredients listed, let alone know what they contain? Where are the results from third party testing proving these ingredients are safe for human use?

The Story of Cosmetics was created by The Story of Stuff Project with free range studios and in conjunction with The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. This video examines from start to finish the pervasive use of potentially toxic chemicals in everyday personal care products– products we use because most of us believe that somebody – somebody like our government regulatory bodies – has decided that the products and their ingredients are safe. But that isn’t the case – the FDA only bans 9 ingredients in personal care products and regulates colorants. Other than that, cosmetic companies are pretty much free to use what they want. Compare this to the European Union, which has banned or limited more than 1,100 ingredients in cosmetic products.

It continues by examining health implications of the decision of major manufacturers to use these ingredients in our everyday products, while telling us they are safe even though 99% have never been tested.

Learn more about The Story of Cosmetics in their FAQ at http://storyofstuff.org/pdfs/cosmetics/SoCos_faqs.pdf

Nellie’s PVC-free Dryer Balls

2010-07-14T15:52:00.003-04:00

As you have probably heard, the majority of dryer balls available on the market are made from PVC, except Nellie’s Dryer Balls. Just like the same great dryer ball, you came to rely on to reduce your drying time by 25% and fluff up your clothes naturally, but now also readily recyclable. They have an all new fragrance option to ensure your clothes come out smelling clean. And to top it all off, the fragrance is a subtle scent of essential oils making it phthalate-free. This dryer ball is a great toxic-free alternative.

Blue Ribbon General Store was kind enough to offer our readers a 20% discount using the code “zoeb”.

Go Green and Reuse with Thred Up

2010-07-01T10:20:00.005-04:00

As we all know kids grow so fast, keeping up with them can be challenging. Let alone the constant battle of trying to figure out what to do with the piles of clothes they have outgrown. We recently stumbled upon company created to help America’s busiest families to conveniently exchange kids clothing online, Thred Up.

How it works: Take one out. Put one in.
Browse online listings of boxes of gently-worn kids clothing
Conveniently Swap with Friends
List Clothing Your Child Has Outgrown
Join the 100% free Membership- all you pay is shipping and handling or become a Pro Member

It’s that easy! And Thred Up is offering our readers a special 20% discount on a Pro membership using the code "zoe" today through July 9th. PRO members have a VIP like experience on the site (more detail about items in each box, access to the "notes" section, exposure to our special promotions and giveaways).

Reusable fabric wall stickers from Stickytiki

2010-06-22T19:11:00.004-04:00

Brilliant and fun, reusable fabric wall stickers from Stickytiki. Every original art is hand painted then printed by Kim and Si, 2 really cool moms from New Zealand, onto their fabric decal (no nasty PVC decals) to create a beautiful unique learning décor for your child's space. Nothing computer generated here.....You wont find too fluffy or too sweet,....and best of all there is nothing mass produced about this Alphabet. You wont find anything else like it in the world! I am ordering one now. They are available in small, medium and large.

Get free shipping from New Zealand, mention Zoe b when ordering on Etsy at Stickytiki.

A Father's Day Gift to Keep Dad Green, Fit and Happy

2010-06-16T13:44:00.013-04:00

This Father’s Day give Dad a gift that will move him, keep him green and make him feel special!

Taga is an ingenious child carrier bicycle + baby stroller all-in-one. Now Dad and baby can ride to the hardware store together, and then watch the magic happen once they arrive. Taga converts to a great stroller for browsing the tool section in style. It travels well, easily folding to fit in the trunk of a car.

My favorite features:

Makes it easy for Dad to spend fun time with baby, cycling, and being green - all at the same time!
Dad no longer has to suffer while pushing the pink pram you think is adorable.
Toggling from a bike to a stroller only takes 20 seconds or less. See video below.

Involve Your Kids in Cooking with the Handstand Kids Cookbooks

2010-06-09T11:53:00.004-04:00

We recently discovered a unique and interesting cookbook created for kids. The Handstand Kids Cookbook Company creates international cookbook kits that introduce children to the culture, language, and cuisine of a new country. Each cookbook kit includes a unique cooking accessory, such as a chef's hat in the Italian kit.

In addition to exploring the delicious recipes of a different country, their cookbooks also introduce kids to the country's language. All of the ingredients and utensils are translated in to the country's primary language, and then the translated words are used in the recipes to help children learn the language as they cook. What a fantastic combination of learning and fun!

Finding ways to involve your children in cooking is a fantastic way to promote health and nutrition, explore different cultures, and encourage family togetherness.

EWG Releases 2010 Sunscreen Guide

2010-05-28T09:30:00.016-04:00

This time of year as we begin to gear up for fun in the sun, the question “which sunscreen is safest for my children” is always weighing on my mind. Although, the best sunscreen is a hat and shirt, I like to have a cream on hand for those long days at the lake or pool.

It can be quite confusing with so many choices on the market. That’s when I turn the Environmental Working Group's Sunscreen Guide. It’s chalked full of surprising truths and facts. They even have an extensive list of safe sunscreens.

Here are the basics principles of finding a safer sunscreen:

Make sure the active ingredient is zinc or titanium
Avoid sprays, powders and products with bug repellent
Apply 30 minutes before going outside and at least every 2 hours
Look for 0-2 hazardous rating
Limit sun exposure

If you follow these 5 simple steps, you too can have a safe summer under the sun.

Episencial and Soleo are two of EWG's highest-ranked sunscreen brands and are offering a discount to our readers to help get you started using the safest option possible!

Save 15% on Episencial's Sunny Sunscreen with the discount code "TSLEPI". Expires June 19th.
Save 15% off any size of the Soleo sunscreens at CarenOnline.com with the discount code "zoebsoleo15”. Expires July 15th.

ECOLunchbox Stainless Steel Tiffins Are Perfect for Kids

2010-05-26T09:42:00.005-04:00

This three-in-one stainless steel lunchbox from ECOLunchbox is a handy for packing a plastic-free child's lunch without the worry of chemicals leaching into their meal. I don't know about you, but my kids don't like their foods them mixed together, so ECO Lunchbox tiffins are perfect.

Perfect for an older child who can open it easily
Big enough to store a healthy size sandwich and two sides, yet small enough that is won’t take up too much room in their backpack
No additional lunch sack necessary, although it’s made to fit the cloth ECOlunchbag
Free of BPA, PVC Phthalates
Great alternative to plastic lunch containers
Completely recyclable

And the best news is that our friends at The Soft Landing are offering a amazing 30% discount on the ECOlunches rectangle tiffin set to our readers! Enter the discount code "zoebecolunch30" during checkout through May 31, 2010. Limit one per order. While supplies last.

Ella's Kitchen Organic Baby Food

2010-05-14T15:56:00.003-04:00

Joanie from Real Baby Real Food introduced me to a new a line of organic baby food now available in the United States, Ella’s Kitchen. This company was created out of a father’s passion for his daughter, believing that she, along with her generation, should have the opportunity to eat better food and also to discover that healthy food can be fun, tasty and cool.

Ella’s Kitchen comes in different and fun combination of vegetables and fruits like broccoli, pears and peas or peaches and bananas.

What i really like about it, is the fact they use no added ingredients other than 100% organic fruits and vegetables, not even water. And it comes in easy to squeeze resealable Tetra pack pouches, which are BPA and Phthalates free. They make a great snack for lunches at school or on the go.

The other great things about Ella's Baby Food is that you can find it almost anywhere including Wholefoods, Babies R Us and Diapers.com.

Furry Vengeance

2010-04-26T11:35:00.003-04:00

My kids and i laughed at the trailer. Furry Vengeance is a fun way to talk with your kids about the impact we have on nature. The movie is also promoting a Social Action Campaign that will focus on the importance of endangered species and habitat preservation. They will engage elementary students nationwide with a customize package including activities and materials. It is coming out this Friday. I would love to hear from you if you make it to the theater this weekend.

Check out the movie website and their take part page.

"Let's Get Outside" by Jennifer Ward

2010-04-19T09:27:00.003-04:00

I think the best way to celebrate Earth Day is to spend time outside with our children and enjoy being outdoors. Jennifer Ward's new book will help you with tips and activities to get you and your kids closer to nature. Sections of the book include:

Back to Basics: Reconnecting with twists on traditional games and activities such as Capture the Flag
Making the Ordinary Extraordinary: Picnics, doing homework outdoors, and socializing opportunities outdoors
Outdoor Adventures: Canoeing, biking, and camping
Environmental Experiments: Ways to explore how nature works

Get 10% off the entire store with code EARTH at Fawn and Forest, offer ends 04/23/2010.

Win a Water Saving Kit

2010-03-23T21:05:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was World Water Day, an international day of observance and action to draw attention to the role that freshwater plays in our world and lives. We are lucky to have access to safe water but one in eight people in the world don’t have access to it, millions of women and children must still spend several hours a day collecting water from distant, often polluted sources, and 2.5 billion people live without a toilet. Please watch this video from Annie Leonard about bottled water, send me a comment by Friday, March 26 at valerie[@]zoeborganic.com and you can win a water saving kit (value $49.99.)

World Water Day, the Story of Bottled Water, It's Easy Being Green Water Saving Kits.

BPA-free Chili, Finally!

2010-03-11T21:03:00.006-05:00

Let me begin by saying I pride myself on my chili-making. But whipping up a batch without tomatoes and beans from BPA-lined cans has been a real challenge. So I'm happy to report I've found a solution: Eden Foods and Parmalat sell canned beans and chopped tomatoes in Tetra Pack packaging, respectively, without the worrisome chemical. They may be more expensive than regular canned beans and tomatoes, but they're definitely worth it. If you have your own, BPA-free chili recipe you'd like to share, by all means please post them on Comments.

To learn more about BPA in canned foods, visit Edens Food. You can find Pomi products (from Parmalat) in your local supermarket or online.

Jamie Oliver Food Revolution

2010-03-03T07:51:00.002-05:00

I hope you will take 20 minutes to watch this video of Jamie Oliver at the 2010 TED conference. Even though i try my best to feed my kids healthy food, i am not perfect and i could do much better (we love chocolate.) I was really inspired by Mr Oliver, it reminded me how i saw my mom cook and how much i learned from her. Are my kids learning healthy eating habits from me? Not always. Do my kids know what a cauliflower is? I am ashamed to say they don't. With our busy schedule, we forget what is important and instead of always running from and to after school activities, maybe one after school activity should be cooking with our kids not for them. I am doing it this week. Please share with me your thoughts.
For my e-mail readers, please click on this link to see the video: Jamie Oliver.

Perfect natural rubber pacifier for nursing babies

2010-02-25T19:24:00.004-05:00

Why is a rounded pacifiers better for nursing babies? The rounded shape tends to work better for breast-fed babies because the tongue is positioned under the nipple as it is during breast-feeding--helping prevent nipple confusion. About 80% of babies tend to move pacifiers around in their mouths. Because the tongue’s position never changes, European midwives recommend starting babies on rounded pacifiers. Natursutten pacifiers are also chemical-free (no BPA or phthalates) and the one piece design eliminates cracks where bacteria can hide.

Get 10% on all Natursutten pacifiers at Zoë b Organic with coupon code rounded, offer ends 03/15/2010.

Clementine Art Giveaway

2010-02-13T11:48:00.003-05:00

Clementine Art is a Boulder, CO based company that has created the first all natural line of children’s art supplies that include crayons, markers, paint, play dough, and glue. Clementine Art provides little hands with the natural, simple and lovely art products they need with no chemicals dyes or additives.

To win a Clementine Art gift set (value of $27), please visit their website http://www.clementineart.com and e-mail me by 02/28/2010 your favorite products from Clementine Art at valerie[at]zoeborganic.com.

Eco-Nuts Natural Laundry Detergents

2010-02-04T21:39:00.007-05:00

I was very skeptical when i first received an e-mail about Eco-Nuts but i was intrigued. I did get a free sample from Eco-Nuts to try at home. Having a daughter going through potty training, i had the perfect laundry test and i was amazed at the results. It is easy, put 4 nuts in a cloth bag (provided in the box) and let the nuts do the work. Eco Nuts® are gentle on both clothes and skin, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin, eczema, allergies and psoriasis. Because they are so mild, they are perfect for baby clothes and cloth diapers. The antimicrobial properties of Eco Nuts® also make them great for septic and grey water systems. Eco-Nuts come from a tree, so they are 100% natural. And bye bye plastic detergent bottles, they come in a recycled paper box. A family box of 50 loads cost $12.00.

I had to carry them on Zoë b Organic, so get 30% off use code nuts at check out. Offer ends 02/29/2010.

Little Beetle Organic Cotton Learners

2010-01-27T09:07:00.004-05:00

It is potty training time in our house with our 2 years old Sophie. I found the perfect training pants, they are 100% certified organic, fair-trade cotton velour. What sold me on them was the snaps on both side, when you have a #2 accident, it is perfect! With 3 layers of cotton, they will absorb a lot. I also love their softness.

Get 10% off at Global Enfant with code PULLUP, valid until 02/14/2010. Plus they offer free shipping in the US.

Fair Trade, Organic Cotton Kids Sneakers

2010-01-19T10:03:00.002-05:00

The perfect and cutest sneakers for your green kids. Every kid can now rock out in Fair Trade kicks while sporting cool colors ranging from Cranberry Red to Navy Blue. The sneakers are made with 100% Fair Trade-certified organic cotton canvas upper and tough rubber sole. The sole is produced and stamped with FSC-certified all natural and sustainable rubber. That means the rubber was actually tapped from a tree in a well managed and growing forest instead of being made from chemicals like other rubber products. All dyes used on the canvas are PCP and AZO free.

25% discount during their winter clearance sale, hurry up at Autonomie Project.

The American Ducki by Dano2

2010-01-14T21:48:00.004-05:00

Finally a well designed, safe bath duck toy. Dano2 sent me a free sample of Ducki, their new bath toy. It is PVC-free, made with FDA-compliant medical grade materials. It is of course BPA- and Phthalate-free. It has a clever hatch on the bottom that opens for cleaning and allow it to air out at the end of each bath. So no yucky stuff growing inside it. I love it. Sophie, my 2 year old is delighted to have her bath ducky back.

Get 10% off with code ZoeB10 until 01/31/10 at Dano2.

Genetically Modified Food

2010-01-08T12:19:00.004-05:00

Do you know that "between 60% and 70% of multi-ingredient foods in the United States may have been made with "biotechnology crops", meaning GM crops", according to an e-mail i received from Kellogs after inquiring if they use GM foods for their cereals. "Like most other food makers in the nation, we buy the ingredients for our foods on the open market and it is likely that these ingredients could have biotech content in the same proportion that it occurs in the national supply.". What drove me nuts about the response was that they don't openly say they buy GM food ( like they would not know). In Europe, they have to label on the package if GM ingredients was used. Why not in the US. Check out The Non GMO Project for more info on GM food and their risks and how to avoid them.

http://www.nongmoproject.org

Eco-Friendly Creativity Kits

2009-12-09T13:32:00.002-05:00

This Creativity Kit available at Stubby Pencil Studio has an assortment of glass and wooden beads, 100% wool felt shapes and beautiful handmade paper to set the creative spirit free. Made in USA by Artterro, each kit is assembled by Goodwill Industries. My daughter Zoë is going to love it, it will be under the tree in a couple of weeks. Stubby Pencil Studio offers a great choice of eco-friendly art supplies.

Get 10% your orders with code ZOEB10, offer end 12/31/09 at Stubby Pencil Studio.

Baby Star Organic Denim

2009-12-04T09:10:00.003-05:00

Baby Star is now offering a line of cute organic denim. I love their easthetic and was pleased to see them launch this brand new line of organic jeans and soy/organic cotton collections. Thank you Baby Star for giving us more green choices.

Get 30% off until 12/31/09 with code 20twinkle09 at Baby Star.

Erbaviva - Sniffles Organic Baby Chest Balm

2009-11-24T14:36:00.004-05:00

Erbaviva Sniffles Organic Chest Balm is the only organic chest balm i could find, it works wonder when your little one is congested. Sophie loves the smell. A must have for the winter months. I could not got through the winter without it.

Get 10% off your entire order or purchase that includes the balm, code "erba10gg" at Green Genes. Offer ends 12/25/09.

Lunapads Washable Pads

2009-11-12T10:26:00.005-05:00

It is one thing i have been feeling guilty about for a long time, disposable pads. Not anymore, i finally invested in Lunapads washable pads. They are awesome, they feel great, very soft and more over they work. They even have them organic cotton (not pictured.) I now need to try the Diva cup. I would love to hear about it, let me know if you have tried.

Get 15% off orders over $50 with code Mothering094 via Mothering Super Deals.

Lunch Bots Stainless Steel Container

2009-11-05T12:04:00.003-05:00

Great for kids or adults, i really like the new Lunch Bots stainless steel containers. They have few sizes available including 2 sizes with dividers. They are well-made and they look good. Made from the highest quality 18/8 stainless steel, LunchBots is a great alternative to plastic containers. Lucas and Sophie love them.

The Soft Landing will be offering 30% off all their stainless steel containers from 11/09 through 11/11 with code "christmas 119" at checkout.

Check their blog to download more great offers on coffee mugs, bath toys etc. during the month of November http://thesoftlandingbaby.com/

Green Bargains

2009-10-30T14:05:00.004-04:00

Sign-up for free for Green Baby Bargains, Eco Baby Buys and Mambo Sprouts to get great deals and coupons on your favorite organic brands. You can get up to 50% off on brands such as Kate Quinn,Under The Nile, Satch and Sol and many more with Green Baby Bargains and Eco Baby Buys. With Mambo Sprouts, check out their website before you go shopping to get coupons on organic food and drinks products.

Green Baby Bargains
Eco Baby Buys
Mambo Sprouts

LunchSkins Buds Reusable Sandwich Bags

2009-10-22T10:56:00.003-04:00

I feel guilty every time i use plastic baggies. I can admit that i had stopped using them until I found a big Costco box forgotten in my pantry so i am using them again for the last time. I had not find a great replacement until now. LunchSkins are made from a thick cotton fabric exterior with an interior coated with nontoxic food-safe, moisture-proof polyurethane liner typically used in bakeries for storing baked goods. Each LunchSkins Reusable Sandwich Bag is estimated to keep 1000s of plastic baggies from the landfill over it's lifetime of use. It is also dishwasher safe. Go LunchSkins.

Get 15% off the entire store with code ZOE15 until 11/06/09 at Bright and Bold.

Alpaca Sleep Bag by Ergo Pouch

2009-10-14T13:48:00.002-04:00

Sleep bags are definitely a must have. I have used them for our 2 older kids and still use one for our 23 months old daughter, Sophie. The Alpaca sleep bag from Ergo Pouch is made in Australia with all natural, undyed, chemical-free and super soft Alpaca. Sleep bags (also commonly referred to as sleep sacks) are a wonderful way to ensure that your baby is warm at night while getting a safe night's sleep. Experts recommend that babies be put to sleep on their backs, on a firm mattress without heavy sheets or blankets in order to reduce the risk of SIDS, entanglement, and suffocation. I recommend buying the biggest size, so you can use it for a long time until your toddler moves to a real bed. Your baby will look tiny in it but as you know they grow fast.

Get 15% off with code SLEEPTIGHT at Global Enfant until 10/31/09.

Yummy Earth Organic Lollipops

2009-10-03T20:45:00.003-04:00

Have a guilt free Halloween with Yummy Earth all organic lollipops. Daddies invented, the lollipops have no artificial coloring and flavors, no corn syrup. They even have USDA organic gummy bear which are my favorite candy.

Get 2o% off for orders above $25 until October 25th, use code zoebonline at check out at Yummy Earth.

Secret Sale at Kate Quinn Organics

2009-09-22T14:45:00.004-04:00

I just love everything they do and had to share with you. Shhh ... Kate Quinn Organics is having a secret sale! New fall items are arriving. Save $20 off orders of over $100 (coupon code: 20SSS09)and $50 off orders over $200 (coupon code: 50SSS09)!

The sale ends October 1, 2009. Coupon codes not valid on clearance items in showroom store.

Go to http://www.katequinnorganics.com.

YUBO BPA-FREE LUNCH BOX

2009-09-16T10:00:00.003-04:00

Meet Yubo, your kids next lunch box. Finally, a BPA-free, smart, functional and fun lunch box. Yubo lunch boxes are also made from antimicrobial polypropylene plastic and the entire box is dishwasher safe. You can even get them customized with your kids doodlings or pictures, the faceplates can easily be changed depending on the mood of the day. I may have to replace my adored but boring laptop lunches box with Yubo.

Check it out and get 20% off until 09/30/09 with code zoeb at Yubo.

Swap Your Old SIGG for a Stainless Steel Bottle

2009-09-08T11:30:00.002-04:00

By now you must have heard about the Sigg scandal. All along, Sigg liners had BPA. Since i have been using Sigg bottles for my 3 children, i am quite upset about it. How do you know if you have the old liners. See the picture below.

As a customer you can send a strong signal to them by not buying their bottles anymore. There are plenty of company that makes great re-usable bottles.

Thanks to the Soft Landing and Cool Mom Picks, you can swap your old Sigg bottle for a safe stainless steel one at 30% off. Send your old Sigg bottles to the Soft Landing, they will take care of recycling for you. For more info go to
http://www.bigbottleswap.com/.

Downtime On-The-Go Organic Sleepy hats

2009-08-20T21:00:00.002-04:00

Finally the Downtime On-The-Go sleepy hats are back. You can keep your baby happily asleep in the stroller, in the car, or on the plane thanks to the unique, fold-down mask that blocks out light. It is a great eco-friendly baby shower gift and it is super cute. They are made of 100% organic cotton and manufactured in North Carolina.

Get it at Zoë b Organic and get 10% off with code hats during check out. Offer ends 08/31/09.

Laptop Bento Lunchbox

2009-08-13T15:07:00.003-04:00

Laptop Bento Lunch Boxes are a must for kids and for adults as well. I have been using it for our kids for about 2 years and my kids and I love it. No more excuse for not packing waste free lunches for your kids. By by plastic baggies.

Get 10% off with code "zoeb" at checkout at Laptop Lunches.

SPUD BIB, bio-degradable, reusable bibs from potato starch

2009-08-05T11:27:00.007-04:00

I'm really proud to introduce to the US new Spud Bibs from Cocoboheme. Not only are they super-cute with their funky animal designs, but these bibs are made with 100% bio-degradable plastic from potato starch. Plus they're waterproof and reusable. And if you're concerned that using these bibs will cut back on your child's supply of Tater Tots, not to worry--the starch used to make the bibs is already naturally extracted when potato products are processed. So there you have it: No potatoes were harmed in the making of this bib.

Get 15% off at Zoë b Organic, coupon code "spud". Offer ends 08/31/09.

Home the Movie by Yann Arthus Bertrand

2009-07-30T09:36:00.003-04:00

If you have not seen this movie yet, please take the time to watch it. (it's free and you can even watch it in HD.) The movie takes us all over the world and for us living in developed countries, it makes you realize our impact on the environment and how much we have to be thankful for. Even if times are "hard" it makes you pause and hopefully give you another reason to try to change your ways a little bit more or a lot.

Go to You Tube Home Project.

Safe Sunscreen Guide by EWG

2009-07-24T11:06:00.001-04:00

Find Your Sunscreengreat free widgetsWidgetbox

Finding a safe sunscreen for you and your kids may be challenging. EWG (Environmental Working Group) did the work for you. They have a list of the 10 safest sunscreen with reviews from customers so you can choose which one is going to work best for you. There are a lot of chemicals in sunscreen like oxybenzone, a hormone disruptor ingredient. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found detectable levels of oxybenzone in the urine of 97% of Americans over the age of six. In laboratory tests, oxybenzone been shown to disrupt the endocrine system and release reactive oxygen species that could contribute to skin cancer. Up to 9% of oxybenzone applied to the skin absorbs into living tissues and blood vessels below the surface. So be safe this summer.

Check out EWG's website for more info.

Spudware, 100% compostable tableware

2009-07-01T08:45:00.002-04:00

Even though i try to bring re-usable utensils to picnic, sometimes you do need disposable tableware. Don't feel guilty anymore with SpudWare, it is 100% compostable! SpudWare is made from 80% potato or corn starch and 20% soy or other vegetable oils. It provides an excellent sustainable alternative to petroleum-based cutlery.

Gaiam is offering free shipping on all orders and with a price of $16 for a set of 50 forks, knives and spoons who can resist. Use code SFFS9 at check out. Offer expires -7/09/09.

Handmade Wood Blocks

2009-06-24T21:19:00.003-04:00

Lovingly made in Oregon with an assortment of branches and trunks that have found new life being re-used and re-purposed. Zoo Loo Natural cut and sand all surfaces smooth removing the bark and exposing the delightful beauty of the wood. They polish the blocks with handmade besswax finish making these safe for children.

Available at Zoo Loo Natural on Etsy.

Flavrz Organic Drink Mix

2009-06-18T13:29:00.003-04:00

Summer is finally here. My kids loved the taste of Flavrz concentrated liquid mix and i love the concept. With Flavrz, just add water to make a sweet but low in sugar drink that is USDA organic, less than half the calories of juice and soda, free of artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and chemicals. With only one bottle, you can serve 28 8oz drinks. It comes in 3 great flavors, Lemon-Lime, Cherry-Berry and Tropical.

Get 5% off shipping on the 3 pack with coupon code 3PACK. Go to http://www.flavrzdrinkmix.com.

KIDISHES, incredibly kid-friendly tempered glass dishes

2009-05-27T15:46:00.005-04:00

Check this video of the real Zoë b, our little tester.

I am thrilled to introduce to the US, KIDISHES, the kid-friendly tempered glass dishes. Moms everywhere today are looking for an alternative to plastic dishes. First, you have the concern about BPA. And secondly, they’re a pain because you can’t microwave with them.When I was in grade school growing up outside Paris, our cafeteria always had the same, virtually indestructible glasses, bowls, and plates. They were all made from safe, tempered glass and all had the same familiar logo on the bottom: Duralex. The name was a part of every French child’s daily life.

In the 60s and 70s, school administrators in France ordered Duralex dishes by the thousands because they were so amazingly durable and safe. (Tempered glass is 4 to 5 times stronger than standard glass and doesn’t break into sharp shards when it does fail. Apparently it’s so shock-resistant because it’s manufactured through a process of extreme heating and rapid cooling.)

They’re 100% recyclable, great in the dishwasher, and microwave-friendly.

Get 10% off with coupon code KID at Zoë b Organic. Offer ends June 30th, 2009.

Calafant Cardboard Castle

2009-05-19T10:52:00.003-04:00

A walk-in castle for children to crawl in, play in and decorate it inside and out. This castle is beautiful, sturdy and offers so much room for play and even storage and secret compartments in the towers. Your children are going to love it, mine did: A playhouse, a castle and a blank canvass for their creativity all in one! 100% recyclable.

To celebrate their one year anniversary, Get a free small item of your choice with the purchase of any other Calafant toy from www.creativetoyshop.com (offer limited to one free item per order). Simply enter the coupon code BIRTHDAY during check out.

10% off Argington Eco-Friendly Furniture

2009-05-05T15:10:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Fawn and Forest, get 10% off the entire Argington collection. A must is the Babylon high chair. Argington designs furniture with longevity and re-usability as an essential criterion on top of being kind to the environment.

Time to plant

2009-04-30T10:12:00.002-04:00

Time to plant, even if you leave in an apartment, you can grow your own tomatoes in a container. Kids love it.
Seeds of Change offers free shipping on all their seed packs including a great package " Seed of Change" inspired by Michelle Obama with ten, easy-to-grow varieties with some of the same types of vegetables that are in the White House organic garden.

USe copde ship9 to get free shipping. Check it out at Seeds of Change.

Earth Tales Book Giveaway

2009-04-13T09:51:00.003-04:00

My Zoë b (my daughter) loves her Earth Tale Books, she was carrying around at all time when she first got it and read all the stories in record time. To celebrate Earth Month, Barefoot Books will plant a tree during the entire month of April when you buy one Earth Tales Book.

You can also win your own copy of Earth Tales by answering the following questions:

1. What is your favorite Barefoot Book?

2. What are you doing to conserve?

3. Post about this giveaway!

E-mail your answer to info[@]zoebonline by 04/30/09 to enter to win 1 copy of Earth Tales.

You can also get 10% off all online purchases at Barefoot Books

offer expires April 30, 2009 use code SCETALES at check out.

Earth Day Sale at E3 Living

2009-04-06T10:31:00.003-04:00

I probably don't need to remind you that it is Earth month. It is now easier than ever to make smart choices than can save us money and help the environment at the same time. Water conservation is not talked about enough, it is becoming a huge issue. Save water with the toilet tank bank, for only $2.45 you will save up to 0.8 gallon every time you flush. Save electricity with the Smartstrip, it can save you enough money to pay for itself in 14 weeks on average.

You can find much more eco smart products at E3 Living and get 10% off your order with code EARTHDAY 2009 at check out.

Terra Collection Organic Tees

2009-03-18T13:50:00.002-04:00

The Terra Collection is an Orange County, CA based organic T-shirt company with a global mission. With the purchase of each Terra Collection Tee, a donation will be made to one of several charities dedicated to improving our quality of life on this planet - from cleaning up the air and water to protecting the animals and the earth. Jennifer Capaci, the designer behind the Terra Collection let you choose which charity to donate to or you can let the Terra Collection decide. I love the concept and the tees.

Get 25% off with code zoeb at Terra Collection, offer ends 03/25/09.

Kaia House Skincare

2009-03-10T12:28:00.003-04:00

Kaia House is a great destination for the most fabulous and pure baby skin care products. "Kaia" is an old Scandinavian word for 'Pure', and also means 'Skin' in Hindi. At Kaia House, they believe that going natural doesn't mean you have to give up on quality. I also like their most UN-wanted list, a detailed and up to date list of synthetic chemicals of questionable safety that are found in many mainstream skin care products today. Kaia House also carry great products for moms.

Get 15% off your order with code Greenme2, visit Kaia House.

Cardboard Safari

2009-02-24T10:40:00.002-05:00

Fred Moose by Cardboard Safari is the perfect companion for a kids room. Each trophy is made from 100% recycled cardboard, a non-toxic, environmentally friendly product.

The Moose Trophy Puzzle is laser-cut for precision fit and easy assembly using slotted construction. He looks great in his native brown or can be decorated with paint, glitter, wrapping paper or other craft materials.

All of Cardboard Safari's products are designed and manufactured in Charlottesville Virginia. Free from unsafe foreign toxins and waste products.

Get 10% off with coupon code bucky at Fawn And Forest.

Organic Newborn N O O N I E

2009-02-18T19:44:00.002-05:00

Sleeping bags or NOONIE bags according to Alessandra of lala’s Pequeños are a newborn must have. "Lala" wanted to create keepsake items that could be passed on for generations to come. She is meticulous in her search for the perfect fabric and obsessed when it comes to softness.

In an effort to bring ecological awareness to the forefront, a portion of all proceeds from the Lala’s Pequeños line go to help preserve the Rainmaker Conservation Project in Costa Rica. www.rainmakercostarica.org

Available at http://www.lalaspequenos.com

Baby's Room Air Purifier

2009-02-06T14:06:00.004-05:00

There is a lot of talk about indoor air quality. The air inside our home is sometimes more polluted than outside. The Austin Baby's Breath Air Purifier removes asthma triggering irritants, allergens, germs, viruses, bacteria, chemicals, gases, odors, smoke, mold, mildew and fungi. Every minute, The Baby's Breath™ draws over 125 cubic feet of air through a 4-stage HEGA filter containing Activated Military Carbon Cloth and over 30 square feet of True Medical Grade HEPA. A must have specially if you live in a big city and are hesitant to open your windows to get some fresh air everyday.

Buy 1 and get a free Sophie the Giraffe rubber teether at Zoë b Organic.
Offer ends 02/28/08. Mentioned Zoë b blog in the comment section at check out.

Netto Eco-Friendly Crib for only $179.99

2009-01-28T09:40:00.003-05:00

Netto Collection sees the health of our children as inseparable from the health of our planet. So they use only sustainably harvested wood. All their composite materials meet the stringent European "E1" toxicity standards. Their finishes are non-toxic and non-VOC emitting. Thanks to Overstock, you can buy the CUB crib for $179.99 instead of $499 and the changing table for $129.99. The catch: these pieces are “slight seconds,” meaning that there could be very slight imperfections to the finish, but there is nothing wrong with the way the furniture was built.

Check it out quickly at Overstock.

Mambo Sprouts Organic Coupons

2009-01-23T08:28:00.004-05:00

A great resource in these tough economic times. Mambo Sprouts website saves you money on your grocery bills with 'just a click' when you use their E-Coupons. Download 'free' printable coupons for savings on your organic and natural products.

Check it out at Mambo Sprouts.

Collage Art by Print Pattern Paper

2009-01-09T12:00:00.003-05:00

A lovely way to start the year with Rebecca Peragine's art. She is a collage artist, focusing on eco-friendly original art and textiles. All her original art is made from recycled materials, including the wood the art is created on. She pays particular attention to the recycled papers she uses; making sure viewers can see both what the material was in its past life and what it has become since. It adds an educational and inspirational element to each piece. I love it.

Get 20% off with coupon code ZOE20, check her online store at Print Pattern Paper.

Petit Collage Bamboo Mobile

2008-12-17T14:55:00.002-05:00

These new jungle friends by Petit Collage are ready to hang out! A modern addition to any child's room, this Jungle Friends mobile is laser-cut from sustainably harvested bamboo, an earth-friendly renewable resource. The mobiles are delicately handcrafted in Petit Collage studio in California.

Get 20% off until Dec 21st at Branch, use code Friend at checkout.

Green Sprouts Cornstarch-based Baby Dish

2008-12-11T12:19:00.003-05:00

A great alternative to plastic is the new Green Sprouts baby dish set. PVC, BPA, phthalates and lead free! THe Green Sprouts™ dishes are made from EcolGreen bio-Polymer (NatureWorks®), a cornstarch-based eco-friendly plastic. Great for traveling or just at home. No synthetic or toxic materials. Biodegradable and compostable. The only minus is that it is not dishwasher safe.

It is available at The Soft Landing, get 10% off with code "zoeb10", offer ends 12/31/08.

Cool Earth Eco-Friendly Gift

2008-12-05T12:44:00.001-05:00

It is a simple but powerful idea and a great meaningful gift for this Christmas.The idea behind Cool Earth is that rain-forests are worth much more to the human race left standing, helping to cool the planet, than they are cut down for timber or burnt to clear land for cattle ranching.

Rain-forests are made of carbon. When the forest is destroyed, this carbon is released as climate warming CO2.
Rain-forests are critical to global weather systems acting as the world's thermostat. The Amazon rain-forest alone provides a fifth of the world’s fresh water as well as a fifth of the world’s oxygen.
Rain-forests are home to two-thirds of all living animal and plant species on the planet, with hundreds of millions of species still undiscovered. The forests are known as the “world’s pharmacy” because of their wealth of natural medicines and destroying them can destroy the chances of new breakthroughs in treatment.

By contributing $50, you can protect half an acre. The money is invested in a local trust, and help to protect the rain-forest around the clock to keep the carbon where it belongs. They employ local people to do the work, helping them to get income from the forest without cutting it down. You will be able to watch it with Google Earth. Pretty Cool.

Go to Cool Earth to check it out and hopefully make a difference.

Last Child In the Woods

2008-11-25T07:52:00.002-05:00

I just finished reading this wonderful and eye opening book from Richard Louv. It is a must read for all parents. Richard Louv talks about the disconnection between our children and nature or nature deficit disorder. His book started a national movement and inspired Leave No Child Inside initiatives all around the country. On Friday, September 19th the U.S. House of Representatives approved the No Child Left Inside Act of 2008.

To find out more about Richard Louv and his book, visit http://richardlouv.com/

Organic Stockings by Amenity

2008-11-06T13:43:00.002-05:00

Christmas is around the corner and i fell in love with this new Holiday collection from Amenity. Softly textured hemp blended with organic cotton in classic, hand-made shapes are made festive with their Trail print, a modern interpretation of pine needles scattered on the forest floor. All of their holiday items are printed in Los Angeles with low-impact, eco-friendly dyes and sewn locally.

Check out Amenity and get 30% off the entire store with code season at checkout. Offer ends 11/30/08.

Kids Konserve Reusable Waste Free Lunch

2008-10-30T19:46:00.002-04:00

Bravo to Kids Konserve for bringing us another option for our kids' lunch. Just a few numbers, the average child will generate around 67 lb of lunchtime trash each year. That equates to 1.2 billion pounds of annual lunch waste for the more than 64,000 U.S. public elementary schools alone! So, you know what to do. Just one easy step toward saving our environment.

Go to Kids Konserve .

Scooterbees Eco-Friendly Baby Shoes

2008-10-16T14:03:00.003-04:00

Scooterbees soft sole shoes are made with Sensuede fabric, a breathable micro-suede and patented to be wrinkle-, fray-, shrink- and spill-resistant. The fabric is made with 100% post-consumer and post-industrial polyester and is produced without the use of harmful solvents.

ScooterBees shoes are lined with the softest bamboo velour fabric that is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. The little soles are made with the anti-slip and water-resistant ThermoPlastic Elastomer (TPE) material. TPE is a degradable material made of carbon and hydrogen, it uses no harmful chemicals in its production such as in traditional PVC’s . It is PVC-free, latex-free, and most-importantly, chloride-free, dioxin-free, and phthalate-free. A must have for "green" babies.

Available at endless.com with free overnight shipping.

BPA-free teethers by Dano2

2008-10-09T09:36:00.003-04:00

DANO2's Circus Teethers are a fun and stylish way to sooth your baby's sore gum. Each set contains three rings. What's more, the rings are manufactured in a "class 7" clean room environment out of FDA Compliant, medical grade materials. The teethers are BPA and phthalates free and proudly made in the USA.

Get 10% off with code DANO at Zoë b Organic until 10/17/08.

EcoSafe™ Biodegradable Trash Bags

2008-10-01T10:14:00.005-04:00

We use billions of plastic bags each year in this country and less than 3% ever get recycled. Personally i cringe every time i buy trash bags knowing they will take over a thousand years to degrade in a landfill. EcoSafe™ trash bags will degrade in 12 to 24 months and are made in USA. Do you part, help reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills.

Get 25% off with code friend at Let's Go Green

Organic Nursery Pillows

2008-09-25T13:45:00.003-04:00

Tiny Decor is a great resource for eco-conscious parents looking for modern, colorful nursery decor. Tiny Décor products are handmade in the USA. They believe the human touch lends character and quality to a product in a way that mass-production cannot and it is healthier for the environment.

With discount code ZOEB10 enjoy 10% off Tiny Decor Limited Edition Decorative Pillows, Limited Edition Floor Cushions, and Tiny Organic Pillows until 09/31/08/.

Tiny Décor

Ecotech, eco-friendly backpack

2008-09-18T21:42:00.003-04:00

Ecotech backpack are made with planet-friendly organic cotton, PVC-free materials, recycled plastics and toxic-free dyes and components. Jimmy, Ecotech founder, has created eco-friendly bags minus the extra baggage of health and environmental risks. And on top of it, they look cool.They also have a line of super cute backpacks for kids.

Get $5.00 off for order over $50 and $10 off for order over $100 until 09/24/08 at Ecotech.

Cuskiboo Bamboo Baby Comforter

2008-09-09T11:27:00.003-04:00

As a mom, Cuskiboo® totally makes sense. Cuskiboo® is designed to stimulate baby’s awareness of mom’s unique familiar scent, helping to promote a feeling of security and well-being in a newborn baby. Because of it's extra absorbency, Cuskiboo bamboo fabric holds mom's scent and helps bonding between baby and mom.

Get 10% off at Zoë B Organic with coupon code CUSKI

Satch and Sol Fair Trade Wool Felt Baby Hat, Mitten and Slipper Set

2008-09-05T07:33:00.004-04:00

For the love of family and earth, Satch & Sol partners with fair trade artisan cooperatives worldwide and strives to be eco-friendly through product selection and business practices. I can't wait to see Sophie wearing this adorable set of matching flower cut ducky hat, mittens & slippers this winter. They are made from 100% warm woolen felt handmade in Mongolia by a fair trade artisan cooperative. Each mitten, hat & slipper is made from a seamless piece of woolen felt using the traditional felting process.

Get free shipping at Satch and Sol.

Mimi the Sardine Eco Friendly Bibs and Aprons

2008-08-21T16:34:00.003-04:00

Mimi the Sardine's bibs, aprons and splash-mats are made from Swedish cotton prints that have been treated with an environmentally sound coating to make them permanently water and soil resistant. Our kids use the aprons everyday during meal time, no more food stains in our house.

The fabrics are produced in accordance with strict environmental laws and are Oeko-Tex certified; the coating is made from acrylic and not PVC. They use no chlorine in the production process, and only water soluble dyes.

Check out the Mimi Outlet for aprons and bibs at half price.

La Lu Baby Organic Top

2008-08-13T20:56:00.003-04:00

La Lu Baby lovely clothes are hand made in the designer/mom home studio in Portland, ensuring all La Lu Baby pieces are sweat shop free. I just love this top made of 100% organic cotton knit for easy wash and wear. A must have for back to school.

Check out La Lu Baby for more unique designs.

Z Boards Eco-Friendly Kids Playroom Set

2008-08-05T09:06:00.003-04:00

It took Way Basics 10 years to perfect the ingenious building-block zBoards. Their patented, environmentally sound manufacturing process turns post-consumer recycled paper into superbly strong boards that weigh 62% less than particle board. BRILLIANT! zBoards are just as solid and structurally sound as any engineered wood furniture, yet they’re made from one of the simplest materials ever – paper.

They designed these marvelous building boards to be versatile and easy to assemble, and came up with a new way to put the pieces together. Strategically placed super-strong adhesive tape is the answer – all you do is peel off the protective covering, stick the blocks together, and you’re done. Voila! I can't wait to try it in our home.

Check out Way Basics for more great ideas.

Downtime Organic Cotton Sleepy Hats

2008-07-24T11:43:00.003-04:00

Downtime Sleepy hat, with its patented, fold-down sleep mask, creates a dark, sleep-inducing environment for your baby. It blocks out light and visual stimulation to help your baby fall asleep and/or have uninterrupted, restful naps when it otherwise would be difficult to do so. I have tried on it on our daughter and it does work, and on top of it, it is super cute.

Designed with safety in mind, the Downtime hat is completely breathable, super soft, 100% organic cotton, and very light-weight so that you can feel good about putting it over baby's delicate skin and eyes. Made in USA.

Get 10% off at Zoë b Organic with source code downtime.

Birth Wish Bracelet by Binsi

2008-07-09T22:29:00.005-04:00

The Birth Wish Bracelet is a wonderful notion conceived by Carri and Kim at Binsi, known for their line of birthing skirts. The idea is for women everywhere to wear these colorful bracelets in support of their friends or family who are expecting, and it's been organized in cooperation with BeadforLife. BeadforLife was established to help eradicate extreme poverty in African communities: Ugandan women turn brightly colored, recycled paper into beautiful beads, and people who care open their hearts and homes to buy and sell the beads. All profits from BeadforLife are invested in community development projects that generate income and help people work their way out of poverty.

Visit Binsi to find out more.

Organic Cotton Muslin Wrap By Natures Child

2008-06-26T21:04:00.005-04:00

I have been looking for an organic muslin wrap for a long time and finally found one all the way in Australia. This super-soft organic and fair trade muslin wrap by Natures Child is a must have for a newborn. You can use it for swaddling or as a receiving blanket. The muslin fabric will get softer after each wash.

Get 10% at Zoe b Organic with coupon code "Nchild", offer ends 07/30/08.

Healing Anthropology Baby Gift Set

2008-06-18T21:18:00.002-04:00

Healing Anthropology offers the very best in all-natural skin care, body ca
Healing Anthropology, all-natural skin care, is completely free of chemical preservatives, synthetic fragrances and toxins. Their philosophy goes beyond skin products. Social and environmental responsibility is at the core of the company. They ship their products sealed in BioBags (which are made from corn and completely biodegradable leaving no toxic residue), products are not boxed to cut down on waste and part of their proceeds go to charitable organizations. During the month of June, 15% of their proceeds will be donated to Gabriel's Angels, a non-profit organization providing Pet Therapy to abused and at-risk children in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Check out their baby care gift set at Healing Anthropology

Recycled Fire Hose Belt

2008-06-05T22:14:00.002-04:00

You would never guess this cool belt is made from old fire hose from the London Fire Brigade. The Fire House, a UK based company, is constantly thinking about waste. The instant they met the London Fire Brigade they fell in love with their old hose. They scrubbed away all the soot, grease, and everything else that builds up after 25 years of active duty, and in the process discovered a truly remarkable, truly green textile. After a long search for a local buckle maker willing to use recycled pewter, the belts were born. On top of it, they are giving 50% of their profits to the London Fire Brigade's Benevolent Fund. A great gift for dads.

Available at Fire Hose.

Recycled Wool Sweater Penguins

2008-05-29T20:37:00.003-04:00

I could not resist these super cute penguins by the Pear Tree Studios, an artist workshop in New Hampshire. Each penguin is made out of clean recycled wool sweaters and stuffed with shredded recycled polyester. Because they are made from unique, reused materials, each animal is one of a kind.

Get a special price at Eco-Artware, a web-based gallery of unique, well-made and environmentally friendly gifts. Offer ends June 15th, 2008.

Spa Baby Tub Saves Water

2008-05-14T19:58:00.005-04:00

Our daughter Sophie loves her European Spa Baby Tub. This unique bathing tub allows for a natural, upright position, calming and relaxing your baby with warm water up to his or her shoulders. (A reclined position in traditional tubs often makes babies feel exposed and uncomfortable.) And you'll be surprised by how little water is used for a bath. It's also made of polypropylene--a safe, non-toxic, and recyclable plastic with no BPA.

Get 10% off your order at Zoë b Organic with coupon code "spababy".

PVC, lead and phthalates free bibs and splat mat by "Just Buzzin' By"

2008-05-01T11:36:00.004-04:00

“Just Buzzin’ By” splat mat and snap-pocket bibs are plastic-free: no PVC, lead, or phthalates are used during fabrication. A film coating is applied to the fabric so that it wipes clean and is stain and mildew-resistant. (The film has no harmful components.) You can keep your little one and your floors clean safely and stylishly.

Get 15% off your order with coupon code ZOEBORG at Just Buzzin'By

You can solve it.

2008-04-21T22:18:00.003-04:00

Visit We Can Solve It and take action. Small changes can make a big difference.

Tees For Change

2008-04-10T08:39:00.004-04:00

I hope you'll be inspired like I was by Tees for Change, a line of eco-friendly tees. Andreea Ayers believes that practicing mindfulness and loving kindness throughout our daily lives can enhance our whole beings - body, mind, and spirit. Her eco-friendly tees, with positive statements such as "live mindfully" and "laugh often", are proof that you can look good, do good, and feel good, all at the same time. The line includes 100% organic cotton and bamboo/organic cotton blend tees for both women (pictured above) and men. Even better, every time you buy a tee, they plant a tree.

Get 15% off with code zoeb at Tees for Change until the end of April.

Fair Trade Plush Toys

2008-04-04T18:01:00.005-04:00

I'm really excited to introduce, for the first time in the U.S., a line of super-cute, fair trade and organic cotton plush toys from France. The line is from Papili, a brand new French company, and is certified by the fair trade label Max Havelaar. That means the entire process--from growing the cotton to manufacturing-- adheres to strict fair trade standards.

Why is Fair Trade important? Take the article I recently read by a BBC journalist about cotton harvesting in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is the 2nd largest exporter of cotton in the world. I was shocked to learn that the Uzbek government closes schools from September to November--so that children can harvest the cotton.

Human rights groups estimate some 450,000 children are working in the cotton fields of Uzbekistan during every harvest. The goal of the BBC journalist was to find out if major UK companies like Marks & Spencer knew where the cotton used by their suppliers was coming from, since that department store prides itself on its strict ethical standards. It appears that they did not. Since then, many European companies have banned their suppliers from using Uzbek cotton. But what about American companies? Check out the entire article at Child labour and the High Street.

Get 10% off the Papili collection with coupon code "papili" at Zoë b Organic. Offer ends 04/30/08