Soy fragrant candles....feeeeel the relaxation

Nope soy's not just for your tofu.


I really tried to do some serious internet research on the great paraffin vs. soy candle debate and found so much conflicting info on whether the chemicals in parrafin and the "soot" they create are really bad for you.  Paraffin wax companys say "no" (surprise surprise), and soy wax companys say "yes" (well of course they would).  With no unbiased info in sight I throw my hands in the air!  Curses!  


It came down to a few simple pros and cons as to why I personally think soy is a better option:

• Paraffin wax is a by product of petroleum that basically comes from from the bottom of a barrel of oil that is bleached and textured with a chemical call acrolein.  Eww.
• Soy is a natural rapidly renewable resource.
• Purchasing soy products supports the soy farmers of America.
• Soy burns longer than paraffin (However, keep those wicks trimmed for a cleaner longer burn).
• Soy candle spills can be cleaned with soap and water vs. practically having to get a chain saw to get up paraffin wax.

In a perfect world we would have all our windows open all day with fresh lavender growing adjacent, and cookies baking in the oven to give our home a nice pleasant aroma.  In the real world we light candles that make those smells.  And now you don't have to buy a fancy pants $30 candle.  Target has some great ones starting at $5!  We've been enjoying this bad boy for I don't know how long, but the packaging claims to last for up to 25 hours. 

And here are some action shots.

BOOM!

POW!

Relaxation in yo face!

I heart air plants

Another simple way to green your home literally and figuratively is by adding indoor plants.  Plants are nature's air purifiers.  The best plants to add are philodendrons, green spider plants, dracaenas, palms, fern, English ivy, peace lilies, mums, and daisies.  Here are some traditional and not so traditional options I wouldn't mind using as my own personal home purifiers.

Green Spider

Dracaenas

Any green thumbs know what kind of plant this is?

Flower box plants hung on the wall

Some nice bright indoor citrus

And these little air plant terrariums that are all the rage.  So cute!

Refinished dining table...FAIL

In the past I will admit I have been guilty of sloppy workmanship when it comes to refinishing furniture.  I just get so excited that I rush the process.  So I have decided to take every project from here on out very seriously, slowly, and carefully.  My first attempt was my dining table. 

I'm Stumped

My go to spot for DIY inspiration is etsy.  They have unique handmade, reclaimed, upcycled, vintage, and all other sorts of treasures.  Note: try not to get overwhelmed by their selection because there seem to be millions of items.  So I was browsing to find some fun green (in color and content) items for St.Patrick's day when I stumbled upon their featured seller for the day - Real Wood Works.  You can check out their featured seller interview and store here.  They sell really beautiful and surprisingly affordable accent furniture and accessory items all made of rescued tree stumps, logs, and branches.  I'm adding them to my list of furnishing for my future dream home :)

Awesome end tables

A sleeker option

Throw in a little metal accent

So cute for a kid's room, or to profess your love for someone

I want to design a coffee shop with these guys on casters

Lazy susan to hold all my art supplies

Custom cutting board, only $45!

Even stumps for your pup

Stumps for everyone!

Commitment #2: Take baby steps to a healthier home.

One very simple baby step is taking off your shoes as soon as you get inside.  You walk around through dirt and grime all day, why bring it into the house?  I'll even ask my guests to take off their shoes as they enter.  They may think I'm crazy, but they'll understand.

Now who wants a pile of shoes sitting by their front door for everyone to see?  Forever ago I posted our old shoe holder we had before moving.  If you need a refresher it's here.  For our new shoe gatherer I have two challenges.  One, the lil' fella has a shoe fetish.  Exhibit A.

Please ignore my messy closet.

So we need something where our kicks can be concealed or he will go through every pair trying them all on.  Two, budget.  Shocker.  I think 99% of us are on a budget.  Need something that won't break the bank, so craigslist here I come!  Here's what I'm on the prowl for:

Campaign chest (so hot right now)

And paint it a fun color like one of these

  

Cool old trunk or chest

This little guy is cute. 

Or something taller

Even this option from Ikea could be cool.  I like that they aren't full drawer dressers, but on hinges which is a good space saver for our little abode.  I'd want to jazz up the hardware to give it some life.  

Funny side note...we have a friend in Memphis who was way ahead of me and always made us take our shoes off upon entering his apartment.  The first time we went over I either had on some hole-y socks or mismatched laundry day socks.  Either way I remember being embarrassed and from then on knew to wear presentable socks over to his place.  I promise a judge free sock zone at the Anderson household if you ever want to come by :)

Manic Monday (Even though it's Friday)

Howdy do everyone!  I'm back with a vengeance and greener than ever!  I have made a few commitments to myself to improve my home life and community by becoming even MORE green, and will let you in on all the highs and lows.  I'm so excited to get the ball rolling after taking too long of a hiatus.  Here is just a hint of the things I have been up to that I can't wait to share:

 

Let's start with commitment #1: This year will be spent only purchasing thrift or vintage clothing!  I admit, I draw the line at undies and shoes, but everything else will be previously owned!  Buying used is of course a great way to reduce waste and will also keep me from throwing all my money at Fashion Island ;)  I'll be on the prowl for the best vintage shops around, will be conducting interviews, and posting all my amazing finds!  My first find was all the way down at the San Clemente Salvation Army.  I stumbled upon it thanks to my trip to the DMV.  Who knew something good could come from a visit to the DMV?  What is so awesome about this particular Salvation Army was that on Mondays all clothing items that are over 10 days old are $1.  ONE DOLLAR people!  Needless to stay, I stacked up, and here is one of my fancy finds:

Here's to Manic Mondays at the San Clemente Salvation Army!