Train Up A Child

In the past year, I've discovered the joys of Amtrak. No, not the sitting around in a slightly scummy waiting area or the fact that the train is inevitably running late. I'm talking about the comfortable seats (comparatively speaking), the interesting conversations you overhear, and the fact that you can read the whole time because you're not having to drive. There's also the smug feeling you get for being "green" by saving gas. With the cost of fuel near four dollars a gallon, you might even be saving money.

Check it out.
www.amtrak.com

Not Soylent

This is one of my favorite cleaning products. In fact, almost the only cleaning product I use. You can buy it in a big, concentrated bottle for $9, clean virtually everything with it, and it lasts forever. Plus, it's non-toxic and biodegradable. What's not to like? It works well for everything but glass (a little streaky, as much as I hate to admit it). I've used it to clean tile, carpet, bathtubs, sinks, stoves, laundry, and on occasion, to kill ants. So, if you have skunk spray or a dirty engine, pick up a bottle. That's per their website, by the way.

$9.58, www.lowes.com

You're Going to be Seeing a Lot of These

Just Vase It

If my budget for mantel-dressing were unlimited (or even slightly higher), these would be my next purchase. I know they would look absolutely fabulous against my brown walls.

www.wingardhome.com, $40 - $48

Staples

This looks like a promising t-shirt, even if it does only come in a few colors (black, white, pink, & blue). One in white, one in black...and the fair trade wardrobe continues...

www.districtcotton.com, $15

Tie Me to the Moon

The search for cute fair trade clothing is enough to make me want to start my own business. Well, almost enough. A helpful website is www.coopamerica.org which lists ratings and information about mainstream companies, as well as links to sites that feature fair trade, organic, etc. type products. That's where I found a link to Avatar Imports, a fair trade clothing line made in Kathmandu. Very reasonable prices and some cute stuff, if you're willing to wade through the neo-hippie pieces that seem to be the mainstay of fair trade designs. Seriously, people -- enough with the tie dye!

www.avatarimports.net, $32

She Had to Wear Something Under Her Robes

Next on the shopping agenda, a fair trade camisole from Maggie's Organics. Or maybe a couple. (See previous post, i.e., not Mother Teresa). I'm thinking black and teal. And maybe plum...

www.maggiesorganics.com, $15