Tread Earth Lightly

Happy Fourth of July

My little colonial. This could not be more fitting for today. This was taken when we were in Williamsburg, VA a few months ago.

 

A flag photo I took the other day walking around Ocean Grove, NJ.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!

Starting the Garden

 

Though, a little late, we are finally getting the garden started. It's been raining, for what seems like years here, so I didn't mind being out in the blazing sun the past couple of days. I loosened up the soil by hand, no rototiller here, which was tiring, but what a great workout. Next, we need to put up a fence to keep the millions of Peter Rabbits out, and try to figure out how we are going to keep the family of groundhogs away from our radishes. Our seeds have already started to sprout, hopefully most will grow. I will be posting throughout the season on our garden venture and all of it's bounties (fingers crossed).

             

To get more info and to purchase tickets click photo above.

When it comes to discussing Yoga with others it can sometimes be a heated, difficult conversation. For most, Yoga is an exercise. A series of movements that help to tone the body and relax the mind, which is 100% true. However, it's not just that; it's a practice. A mental, physical, emotional, and for many, a spiritual practice. And when I say spiritual I do not mean religious or Hindu. Though, Yoga is rooted in Hinduism, it can be adapted to any religious/spiritual practice.

No, Yoga is more than touching toes and saying "OM." Yet, this post is not about what Yoga is, or is not, it's about what your Yoga is. What your "practice" is. Something you do almost everyday, or on a pretty steady basis. Something that you go deeply into and give your all. It can be anything, from sports to art.

What is it that you practice? 

Think hard about this one because you may have more than one, and they may not always be the best for you. For instance, you could practice art, which can be a very spiritual and self reflective process, just like Yoga. Or you could put lots of energy into partying. Always thinking about what bar to go to, or how wasted you got last weekend. For some this is just a phase, but for others it becomes an addictive practice.

Take a moment now and think about your everyday practices, your life patterns. Maybe even write them down and see which ones you would be better off without. And find ones that you need to do more. Just by doing this process of finding these patterns is part of Yoga, so now you can add Yoga to your list.

Click on images for photographer info.

Noel Fedosh, a friend of mine, is an architect and furniture designer who specializes in green design. I recently got back in touch with him and found out about his sustainable designs; of course I had to feature him here and spread the word.

Noel attended the BArch program at Cornell University and currently works for Reed Architectural Group in Los Angeles, CA. He has also designed sets and other interior settings. Below is a little more, from his website, about his "green" designs:

 

"In January 2008, Noel Fedosh became a certified LEED AP (http://www.usgbc.org/), taking his collegiate focus on sustainable design practices to an applicable level. Upon completing his studies for the certification, Noel felt the desire to take the principles behind LEED and apply them to the scale of furniture design. The hope is to integrate "green" design principles throughout all aspects of a person's life, without having to fully commit to a LEED rated, sustainable house. Noel sees this as living a hybrid lifestyle; being able to vary ones level of desired sustainable consciousness through the customization of individual "parts". As the home is typically seen as a collective whole, the easiest means for customization and integration lie within the design of furniture. Hence came the philosophy behind the custom-designed eco-furniture offered through N:Wood Design."

Please visit his site to view more of his work and to contact him about designing something for your home.

N: Wood Design

I am in the process of growing out my hair, so when I was recently asked to try HairZing I was excited to do so. Anything that can help keep my hair out of my face is a life saver. I especially needed it when I went to the gym and for my Yoga practice. At first I thought it would be a little gimmicky and not be what I needed. Boy was I wrong!! It works great and is very easy to use. No more headache from headbands and elastic hair bands. Plus, they are stylish enough for a night out, or great for a casual workout. 

Another thing I did not expect were all of the compliments I received from family and friends when I wore it. Everyone asked about it and about how it works. They all  thought it was beautiful too. Now I know of a perfect gift to give because they work with any hair type and have many different styles. Also, while researching the website I found out that they are also a socially responsible product/company. These products help women from Kenya and China to start their own businesses and create wonderful job opportunities for women in their area. Many of which would have to leave their families to find work otherwise. All in all, I am happy to be giving this product away and think that you will be happy with it too. Below is some more info about HairZing and how to enter this giveaway.

Announcing our first giveaway!!

1. HairZing: Flexible by Design – create comfortable, fashionable, amazing hair styles with ALL types of hair.
2. HairZing: Hair-Healthy – no more headaches or damaged hair.
3. HairZing: Planet-Friendly - created by women artisans in neighborhood beading collectives in Africa and China.
4. HairZing: QUICK Hair Styling Solution – create salon-quality hair styles in minutes for the office, prom, gym, beach, wherever!
5. HairZing: Revolutionary - the first truly new, patented Hair Accessory introduced this century.

To watch videos on how to use HairZing click here.

We have two HairZings to giveaway, so there will be two winners. Winners will be chosen by Random.org. Leave a comment and next Tuesday June 30th, 2009 ( I have extended this giveaway, so the winners will be chosen on Tuesday July 7th 2009) we will announce the winners. The winners can then contact us via email with there name and shipping information. If you connect an email to your comment we will also email you if you win.

Thanks for visiting and good luck!

These days being a parent and a Yoga teacher I give more than take, both in general and with Yoga classes. Most instructors, especially in the beginning, find that they spend a majority of their time teaching. Most parents find that they spend all of their time being parents. Put being a parent and instructor together, getting to a Yoga class rarely happens.

But never fear, the internet is hear! Though, a curse to some and a boon to others, the internet has created a an opportunity for busy people who want to take a Yoga class. Not a Yoga DVD, but an actual class. It's called Yogaglo. They offer a wide variety of classes and styles.  Levels from beginner to advanced; different length video lessons from  5 minutes to two hours. Yogaglo also offers meditation, Yoga for work, and pre natal Yoga, so now there is no reason why you can't get to a class.

The best thing is it's cheap. It's only $18 per month for unlimited classes, which get updated regularly. You can now get to class without worrying about speeding through traffic, or getting someone to watch the kids.

I recently took a couple of classes and fell in love. My two year old actually liked it too. He started following the video along with me one afternoon. Also, my husband and I can even take a class after the kids have gone to bed and don't have to worry if we can make it to class on time, or find a sitter. Though, I still think that a real live class in a studio, or with a private instructor, is key to any Yoga practice, Yogaglo is definitely a great way to add to your practice when you can't get to a class.

For more info and to sign up visit Yogaglo.com

Namaste!

This past Mother's Day I went to visit Longwood Gardens in the good old, neighboring state of Pennsylvania. My husband being a florist, as well as Yogi, had to work (it's a pretty big day for flowers haha!), so my stepfather tagged along with the kids and I. We had never been before, but had heard that it was an amazing place. Boy was it! Longwood Gardens is a great place for the whole family, or for a date with that special someone. The kids can run around, build forts, and climb tree houses. Couples can stroll through the flowers enjoying nature's beauty, and parents don't have to worry if their kids will sleep on the way home. Trust me, they'll be tired. Mother's Day, though busy, is probably one of the best time to go because everything is still in full bloom. Though, the tulips were done everything else was perfect. The Conservatory/Greenhouses were spectacular. My favorite section was the Orchid house. Some looked like creatures instead of flowers. I could go on and on about the plant life, but I don't want to bore you. Another awesome thing, which I did not expect, was all of the "Green" in the gardens, and I don't mean the grass. When we ate lunch there was more than just a recycling pail. The coffee was organic, some of the food was organic, and the utensils/cups/straws were all biodegradable. Wow! Now I know it's an environmental place, but this is amazing! Biodegradable straws! Whole Foods doesn't even do that! Though, they should..everyone should! Anyway, it made me appreciate Longwood Gardens even more. Here are some more pictures from our day in the gardens.

 

Even if you live far away, Longwood is definitely a place to come and visit. There is plenty to see and do at the Gardens, and in the surrounding area. I know this sounds like a review, I guess it kind of is, but I really enjoyed it and cannot wait to go back. And to bring my hubby next time who will appreciate it just as much, if not more, than I did. There is lots to do in the surrounding area too. From museums to wineries, and of course lots of places to eat.

Now I know what you're thinking...EEEWWWW! It's the same thought I had. Mats of hair around my plants? Hair is not supposed to mated, right? Well, after I looked more closely into this hair raising idea I began to see something good. Something not as gross as I first thought. Though, it still is a little odd. A company called Smart Grow  distributes mats, yes, made from human hair. Specifically human hair from China. I know, I know, China?! But apparently dark hair is better nutrient wise for the plants. And it is all collected and made in a good way. No one is losing their hair against their will. Hair is actually a commodity in China, instead of throwing it away barbers sell it to brokers. These brokers then sell it off to get made into wigs, hair mats for your garden, and even food additives (OK! Now that's not my cup of tea, but to each their own). So, what's so great about these mats anyway? Well, they help to keep and give more nutrients in your plants/gardens and they keep the weeds away helping your plants to grow larger and produce more. All without using any funky chemical fertilizers and herbicides. It's also easy to use and inexpensive. I have not tried these yet, but if you have please let me know what you think and how it worked for you.

To hear the source interview from Marketplace click here.

To purchase Smart Grow Mats click here.

Music & Yoga, Together

To get more info and to purchase tickets click photo above.

How to Reuse Everyday Items w/ the Environmental Ninja

What is your Practice?

When it comes to discussing Yoga with others it can sometimes be a heated, difficult conversation. For most, Yoga is an exercise. A series of movements that help to tone the body and relax the mind, which is 100% true. However, it's not just that; it's a practice. A mental, physical, emotional, and for many, a spiritual practice. And when I say spiritual I do not mean religious or Hindu. Though, Yoga is rooted in Hinduism, it can be adapted to any religious/spiritual practice.

No, Yoga is more than touching toes and saying "OM." Yet, this post is not about what Yoga is, or is not, it's about what your Yoga is. What your "practice" is. Something you do almost everyday, or on a pretty steady basis. Something that you go deeply into and give your all. It can be anything, from sports to art.

What is it that you practice? 

Think hard about this one because you may have more than one, and they may not always be the best for you. For instance, you could practice art, which can be a very spiritual and self reflective process, just like Yoga. Or you could put lots of energy into partying. Always thinking about what bar to go to, or how wasted you got last weekend. For some this is just a phase, but for others it becomes an addictive practice.

Take a moment now and think about your everyday practices, your life patterns. Maybe even write them down and see which ones you would be better off without. And find ones that you need to do more. Just by doing this process of finding these patterns is part of Yoga, so now you can add Yoga to your list.

Click on images for photographer info.

N: Wood Design

Noel Fedosh, a friend of mine, is an architect and furniture designer who specializes in green design. I recently got back in touch with him and found out about his sustainable designs; of course I had to feature him here and spread the word.

Noel attended the BArch program at Cornell University and currently works for Reed Architectural Group in Los Angeles, CA. He has also designed sets and other interior settings. Below is a little more, from his website, about his "green" designs:

 

"In January 2008, Noel Fedosh became a certified LEED AP (http://www.usgbc.org/), taking his collegiate focus on sustainable design practices to an applicable level. Upon completing his studies for the certification, Noel felt the desire to take the principles behind LEED and apply them to the scale of furniture design. The hope is to integrate "green" design principles throughout all aspects of a person's life, without having to fully commit to a LEED rated, sustainable house. Noel sees this as living a hybrid lifestyle; being able to vary ones level of desired sustainable consciousness through the customization of individual "parts". As the home is typically seen as a collective whole, the easiest means for customization and integration lie within the design of furniture. Hence came the philosophy behind the custom-designed eco-furniture offered through N:Wood Design."

Please visit his site to view more of his work and to contact him about designing something for your home.

N: Wood Design

HairZing Review & Giveaway

I am in the process of growing out my hair, so when I was recently asked to try HairZing I was excited to do so. Anything that can help keep my hair out of my face is a life saver. I especially needed it when I went to the gym and for my Yoga practice. At first I thought it would be a little gimmicky and not be what I needed. Boy was I wrong!! It works great and is very easy to use. No more headache from headbands and elastic hair bands. Plus, they are stylish enough for a night out, or great for a casual workout. 

Another thing I did not expect were all of the compliments I received from family and friends when I wore it. Everyone asked about it and about how it works. They all  thought it was beautiful too. Now I know of a perfect gift to give because they work with any hair type and have many different styles. Also, while researching the website I found out that they are also a socially responsible product/company. These products help women from Kenya and China to start their own businesses and create wonderful job opportunities for women in their area. Many of which would have to leave their families to find work otherwise. All in all, I am happy to be giving this product away and think that you will be happy with it too. Below is some more info about HairZing and how to enter this giveaway.

Announcing our first giveaway!!

1. HairZing: Flexible by Design – create comfortable, fashionable, amazing hair styles with ALL types of hair.
2. HairZing: Hair-Healthy – no more headaches or damaged hair.
3. HairZing: Planet-Friendly - created by women artisans in neighborhood beading collectives in Africa and China.
4. HairZing: QUICK Hair Styling Solution – create salon-quality hair styles in minutes for the office, prom, gym, beach, wherever!
5. HairZing: Revolutionary - the first truly new, patented Hair Accessory introduced this century.

To watch videos on how to use HairZing click here.

We have two HairZings to giveaway, so there will be two winners. Winners will be chosen by Random.org. Leave a comment and next Tuesday June 30th, 2009 ( I have extended this giveaway, so the winners will be chosen on Tuesday July 7th 2009) we will announce the winners. The winners can then contact us via email with there name and shipping information. If you connect an email to your comment we will also email you if you win.

Thanks for visiting and good luck!

Yogaglo Review

These days being a parent and a Yoga teacher I give more than take, both in general and with Yoga classes. Most instructors, especially in the beginning, find that they spend a majority of their time teaching. Most parents find that they spend all of their time being parents. Put being a parent and instructor together, getting to a Yoga class rarely happens.

But never fear, the internet is hear! Though, a curse to some and a boon to others, the internet has created a an opportunity for busy people who want to take a Yoga class. Not a Yoga DVD, but an actual class. It's called Yogaglo. They offer a wide variety of classes and styles.  Levels from beginner to advanced; different length video lessons from  5 minutes to two hours. Yogaglo also offers meditation, Yoga for work, and pre natal Yoga, so now there is no reason why you can't get to a class.

The best thing is it's cheap. It's only $18 per month for unlimited classes, which get updated regularly. You can now get to class without worrying about speeding through traffic, or getting someone to watch the kids.

I recently took a couple of classes and fell in love. My two year old actually liked it too. He started following the video along with me one afternoon. Also, my husband and I can even take a class after the kids have gone to bed and don't have to worry if we can make it to class on time, or find a sitter. Though, I still think that a real live class in a studio, or with a private instructor, is key to any Yoga practice, Yogaglo is definitely a great way to add to your practice when you can't get to a class.

For more info and to sign up visit Yogaglo.com

Namaste!

Longwood Gardens - Growing Green & Being Green

This past Mother's Day I went to visit Longwood Gardens in the good old, neighboring state of Pennsylvania. My husband being a florist, as well as Yogi, had to work (it's a pretty big day for flowers haha!), so my stepfather tagged along with the kids and I. We had never been before, but had heard that it was an amazing place. Boy was it! Longwood Gardens is a great place for the whole family, or for a date with that special someone. The kids can run around, build forts, and climb tree houses. Couples can stroll through the flowers enjoying nature's beauty, and parents don't have to worry if their kids will sleep on the way home. Trust me, they'll be tired. Mother's Day, though busy, is probably one of the best time to go because everything is still in full bloom. Though, the tulips were done everything else was perfect. The Conservatory/Greenhouses were spectacular. My favorite section was the Orchid house. Some looked like creatures instead of flowers. I could go on and on about the plant life, but I don't want to bore you. Another awesome thing, which I did not expect, was all of the "Green" in the gardens, and I don't mean the grass. When we ate lunch there was more than just a recycling pail. The coffee was organic, some of the food was organic, and the utensils/cups/straws were all biodegradable. Wow! Now I know it's an environmental place, but this is amazing! Biodegradable straws! Whole Foods doesn't even do that! Though, they should..everyone should! Anyway, it made me appreciate Longwood Gardens even more. Here are some more pictures from our day in the gardens.

 

Even if you live far away, Longwood is definitely a place to come and visit. There is plenty to see and do at the Gardens, and in the surrounding area. I know this sounds like a review, I guess it kind of is, but I really enjoyed it and cannot wait to go back. And to bring my hubby next time who will appreciate it just as much, if not more, than I did. There is lots to do in the surrounding area too. From museums to wineries, and of course lots of places to eat.

Hair in Your Garden?

Now I know what you're thinking...EEEWWWW! It's the same thought I had. Mats of hair around my plants? Hair is not supposed to mated, right? Well, after I looked more closely into this hair raising idea I began to see something good. Something not as gross as I first thought. Though, it still is a little odd. A company called Smart Grow  distributes mats, yes, made from human hair. Specifically human hair from China. I know, I know, China?! But apparently dark hair is better nutrient wise for the plants. And it is all collected and made in a good way. No one is losing their hair against their will. Hair is actually a commodity in China, instead of throwing it away barbers sell it to brokers. These brokers then sell it off to get made into wigs, hair mats for your garden, and even food additives (OK! Now that's not my cup of tea, but to each their own). So, what's so great about these mats anyway? Well, they help to keep and give more nutrients in your plants/gardens and they keep the weeds away helping your plants to grow larger and produce more. All without using any funky chemical fertilizers and herbicides. It's also easy to use and inexpensive. I have not tried these yet, but if you have please let me know what you think and how it worked for you.

To hear the source interview from Marketplace click here.

To purchase Smart Grow Mats click here.