Eco-Friendly Living in Upstate New York

Summer Smoothies!5 yummy recipes

Veganism: Not just a diet

May 2012

The Full-On ExperienceInside EcoVillage Ithaca

Mother’s DayOur Way

GreenMom

This Issue

Shoes Cute Enough to EatOK, maybe not… but these vegan shoes are guilt-free, environmentally friendly, and adorable

23

May 2012

Photo Credits: VeganChic, blue Tofu, SanchomCover Photo Credit: Wonderlane

Top: James Bosjolie

FeatureThe challenges and rewards of living green at Ithaca’s EcoVillage. Read about residents’ struggles, successes, and what’s in store for this community

Fresh Looks

Which Sunscreen is Right for Your Family?The latest on what you need to know before you buy and apply

FRoG, Community at EcoVillage Ithaca

19

21

Green Scene

To Market, to Market! Where to find our region’s pre-season farmers markets

18

Green Spa, Gold QualityComplexions Spa and Salon in Albany raises the bar

16

3GreenMom

SPF FAQs5 need-to-know facts about a summer essential

20

An eco-friendly home doesn’t have to break the bank Save money and energy with these easy, green tips

Dad’s Little HelperNo more store-bought cards! Give your husband some ideas with this GreenMom-approved list of Mother’s Day gifts that you’ll really love

Save the Green

Front Yard

Back Yard

6 fun activities for the whole family Beat the Summer Blahs

Lemons and Baking Soda and Vinegar, Oh My! Natural cleaning with the power of three

Yummy Summer Recipes Kid-friendly salads and smoothies

In Every Issue

Contributors8

May 2012

Note from the Editor6

10

12

30

27

Blog of the MonthKarley Ziegler Mott shares fashion tips, beauty advice, and a DIY body scrub recipe

28

14

More PhotosInterested in seeing more of our coverstory, EcoVillage at Ithaca (p. 23)? See additional photos, and join the discussion about what this environment is really like for those who dream green.

www.facebook.com/GreenMomMagazine

@GreenMom_Mag

FreebiesLiving a green life can be easier when things are free! Check out our list of eco-friendly giveaways from other mom bloggers (p. 28).

Summer FunDownload a printer-friendly checklist of fun summer activities (p. 10) with extra activities!

Vita-BoostDo you know what vitamins are crucial to women’s health? Read Summer Eats and Treats (p. 14) and then go online for our list of the foods that supply the vitamins you need. Eat smart!

5GreenMom

Follow UsWe always want to keep you plugged in and up-to-date with all things green! Like our Facebook Page and follow us on Twitter for exclusive content, giveaways, and helpful tips.

On our Facebook page...

Exclusively Online

What does being “green” really mean? This was the question that spurred the idea for GreenMom. We’re constantly inundated with advertisements for eco-friendly this, natural that. We’re bombarded with the guilt: that unless we install wind turbines in our backyards and solar panels on our roofs, we’re destroying the world for our children, one carbon-burning decision after another.

The truth? Successfully living an eco-friendly lifestyle in Upstate New York is far simpler (and a lot less expensive!) than that.

That’s why we created this magazine — and it’s what sparked the ideas that we include in this, its premiere issue. Raising your kids and running your household means making small day-to-day choices that will help the environment and give your family a healthy, active, and productive lifestyle.

We understand that your busy schedule doesn’t always leave much time to research the best brands of sunscreen (p. 20), to find quick, healthy recipes (p.14), or to find local retailers or attractions that cater to your beliefs. That’s why we’re here.

GreenMom is your go-to guide to help you make cost-efficient,

convenient, and knowledgeable choices to improve your life and the lives of those you care about most.

In our inaugural issue, Julia Potash spotlights New York State’s first and only Gold LEED-certified, eco-friendly spa (p. 17). Tenell Felder tells you how to create your own natural cleaning supplies from common household products (p. 13), and Ruqing Pan goes inside EcoVillage at Ithaca to get the scoop from its co-founder and residents about how this community really works (p. 23).

As Ruqing and I report, EcoVillage’s residents made a bold gamble on an especially green lifestyle. And they found it’s not as easy as they’d hoped. GreenMom applauds their commitment, and offers you these promises: We’ll help you find your own way, we’ll try to keep it uncomplicated, and best of all, we’ll learn and have fun together.

Health and Happiness,

Christina RileyManaging Editor

Christina RileyManaging Editor

Tenell Felder Art Director

Julia PotashSenior Editor

Ruqing PanSenior Editor

STAFF

www.facebook.com/GreenMomMagazine

@GreenMom_Mag

Special Thanks to Mark Obbie

6 GreenMom

Note from the editor

GreenMom

I never thought I’d care so much about sunscreen. I mean, sure, I’ve always made a point of picking up a bottle of the drugstore’s cheapest brand and giving myself a quick spray-down before basking in the rays… but it wasn’t until writing “The `Screen Scene” (p. 20), that I became not just concerned, but completely obsessed, with all things sunscreen-related. Just ask my poor mom, who recently endured a lecture on why her uber-expensive SPF 100 face cream is no better than a budget-friendly SPF 50 product found at Walgreens. Writing for GreenMom makes me more excited to learn about eco-friendly products, activities, and businesses than ever before.

Julia Potash

At first thought, “vegan” apparel may not sound like the most fashionable. But, as I discovered while doing research for “Vegan Soles” on (p. 19), it’s actually the opposite! This trend ruled the runways of the Spring/Summer 2012 New York Fashion Week with many eco-friendly designers showcasing their lines of sustainable clothing and footwear. I found many chic, comfortable, and inexpensive choices! It was hard to narrow the options to the six cruelty-free styles included in this issue. I had to snag a few pairs to update my wardrobe; how could I resist those $16.99 red and zebra print flats?! Fab and animal friendly!

People always say how little things can make a big difference for the earth. To me, writing for GreenMom was like going on an adventure to explore what those “little things” are. It wasn’t until I edited “The ‘Screen Scene” (p. 20) that I realized I had been using the wrong products for almost two years, not to mention how many fun farmers markets I discovered when researching for “Opening Season” (p. 16). Thanks to GreenMom, I realize that the little things really do make a difference—for the environment, and in living a successful eco-friendly lifestyle.

Did you know that strawberries can make a sweet skin scrub? That’s just one of the things I learned while designing pages for GreenMom. In this issue, you’ll discover delicious summer recipes to try, clever ways to save money, and the natural way to do housecleaning. Who would have thought that lemons, baking soda, and vinegar could replace Clorox? Just by working on this issue, I now know so much more about the many different aspects of green living. It might not be as difficult as you think.

Ruqing Pan

Tenell Felder

Contributors

Christina Riley

8 GreenMom

Fun activities for the whole family to tryBy Tenell Felder

To get the kids interested in nature, set aside a day to explore the 12 beautiful gardens and 150-acre arboretum that Cornell Plantations has to offer. Their welcome center, an award-winning “green” building, is LEED-certified and a good starting place to learn about the different gardens in the Plantations, which include herbs, flowers, vegetables, and even weeds. Special events are held in May with Wildflower Walks every Sunday (1-2 p.m.) and morning bird walks every Friday (8-9 p.m.). End your trip with a stop by the Cornell

Dairy Bar for ice cream!

It’s coming: the day when your kids inform you that there’s “nothing to do,” that they’re “dying of boredom” and just days into summer vacation you find yourself starting the Back to School countdown. Before desperately shipping them off to summer camp or grandma’s, consider these family-friendly summer activities that will have you and your kids wishing vacation would never come to an end.

Cure the Summer Blues

Cornell Plantations

Location: 1 Plantations Road, Ithaca

Cost: Free

Phone: (607) 255-2400

Website: www.cornellplantations.org

Beaver Lake Nature Center

Location: 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville

Cost: $3 per car

Phone: (315) 638-2519

Website: www.onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lake-

nature-center

As part of Onondaga County Parks Green Initiative, this nature center gives your family the chance to enjoy a serene environment while learning about the variety of birds and plants that can be found here. You can explore the 10 trails surrounding Beaver Lake, go canoeing, or choose to attend the center’s special programs on composting

Whitewater raftingGo on a Wildflower WalkSee Butterfly GardenMuseum sleepoverVisit Beaver LakeActivities at the Zoo

SummerTo Do List

Photo Credits: Janine and Jim, Peter and Joyce Grace, Rachel Kramer, NelsonNZ

Front Yard

10 GreenMom

Rochester’s National Museum of Play: Butterfly Garden The museum’s Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden will give your family the chance to see beautiful butterflies up close. The garden, which is open year-round, has a tropical climate that houses butterflies, hummingbirds, and tropical birds. What a great way to educate the kids about the tropical ecosystem! Families have to pay an additional fee to enter the garden (see below).

Location: Whitewater Challengers Riverview Drive, Pulaski

Cost: $44 per person

Phone: (800) 443-RAFT

Website: www.whitewaterchallengers.com

Adventurous families: whitewater rafting is the trip for you! An excursion includes a guide to lead you down the rapids and dinner at the end of the day. Whether you’re looking for a gentle ride or an adrenaline-pumping thrill, Whitewater Challengers offers it.

For the environmentally mindful, the center identifies green products with an E.C.O. (Environmentally Conscientious Outfitting) logo. The center also invites guests to help meet their E.C.O. goals for the year, one of which is to recycle 25,000 plastic bottles. This family fun adventure is for children eight and up.

Whitewater Challengers

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo values ecosystem health and is involved in many programs that further conservation and animal welfare. As one of first green buildings in Central New York, the zoo has many green features and even collects its elephant manure (200 pounds each day!) to make agricultural compost.

With events featured each month, there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages to enjoy. The month of May will be the 1-year birthday for the zoo’s newest tiger triplets, Misha, Yuri, and Kuza.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Location: One Conservation Place, Syracuse

Cost: Adults: $8 Youth (3-18): $4 Child (2 and under): Free

Phone: (315) 435-8511

Website: www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum features 38,000 artifacts documenting the history of American baseball and is located in the picturesque village of Cooperstown. Several events will be held at the museum in May. On May 18 and 19, Extra Innings Overnight will be held for children ages 7-12. Children will be treated to a movie, snacks, and a sleepover in the Hall of Fame gallery.

National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

Location: One Manhattan Square, Rochester

Cost: Nonmembers: $4 per person

Members: $2 per person

Children under 2: FREE

Phone: (585) 263-2700

Website: www.museumofplay.org/see-do/gardens/

dancing-wings

Location:25 Main Street, Cooperstown

Phone: (607) 547-0312

Cost: Adults- $19.50 Children (7-12) $7 Children (6 and under) Free

Active and retired military Free

Website: www.baseballhall.org

Photo Credits: Janine and Jim, Peter and Joyce Grace, Rachel Kramer, NelsonNZ

Front Yard

11GreenMom

Give yourself a breath of fresh air

3 Lemons

EssentialsCleaning

Green

The Natural Cleaning Kit

3

Splattered Microwaves Stubborn Stains

Caked On Ovens

Dingy TupperwareEmbarrassed to take your Tupperware out in public? Try this solution: Let the tupperware soak overnigh in a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda to loosen caked on food and stains. Clean the next day.

To get rid of food and grease buildup in your oven, try the following paste mixture: Mix ¼ cup of water, ¼ cup of salt, and ¾ cup of baking soda. Wipe the oven with a vinegar-soaked dishtowel to moisten the areas of grease and food buildup before spreading the paste mixture. Let it sit overnight, then scrub the paste mixture away with a wet cloth the next day. Wipe clean.

We all find them –– mysterious stains on countertops and other hard surfaces that just won’t budge. Take some lemon juice and pour it over the stain. After 15 minutes, use a dishcloth soaked in hot water to scrub the stain away.

Instead of using chemical cleaning products to get rid of food stains, use a cloth soaked in undiluted white vinegar to disinfect and wipe away stains. If the stains are especially tough, microwave a bowl of water for one minute, then wipe the stains again. And not to worry –– the vinegar smell will wear off once it dries.

It’s no secret that common household kitchen cleaners have ingredients that can be

harmful to you and your family. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, many all-purpose cleaners contain hazardous chemicals such as ammonia and give off fumes that can be dangerous if not used in a well-ventilated area. However, there is some good news: Cleaners don’t have to be harsh to get the job done.

The EPA suggests that consumers limit their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals by turning to green products. In fact, some of these products may already be in your cabinet or refrigerator; all you need is lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar. Take a look at our list of natural cleaning alternatives for your kitchen that won’t leave you gasping for air. Food residues from breakfast,

lunch, and dinner can leave your countertop looking less than presentable. Instead of reaching for a disinfectant spray, try the following mixture:

Mix 2 cups of hot water, 4 tablespoons of vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon of dish soap. Soak dishtowels in the mixture, and wipe the counters down. If your counters are especially dirty, wipe them again with a cloth soaked in undiluted white vinegar.

Messy Counters

1 Baking soda

2 Vinegar

By Tenell Felder

It has mild antiseptic qualities and can be used as a non-toxic and multi-purpose natural cleaner.

Its acidity helps to eliminates mold, bacteria, and germs.

Acidic and antiseptic qualities makes effective disinfectors and degreasers.

Photo Credits: Jessicafm

Front Yard

12GreenMom

Ingredients:1 pound strawberries, hulled and cut in quarters5 ounces baby spinach3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette4 ounces goat cheese, cut into slices2 tablespoons pine nuts, toastedOptional for meat lovers: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a bit of protein.

Directions:1) In a large bowl, combine strawberries, baby spinach, and balsamic vinaigrette. Toss to coat.

2) Divide among serving plates and top with goat cheese and toasted pine nuts.

Ingredients:10-ounce package mixed salad greens1 pint fresh blueberries

Summer

Fresh salad and smoothie recipes

Eats & Treats

Salads Blueberry Walnut Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Ingredients:1/2 medium watermelon1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 handful baby greens

Directions:1) Slice the watermelon and remove the rind

Watermelon Salad

1/4 cup walnuts1/2 cup raspberry vinaigrette salad dressing1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions:1) In a large bowl, toss the salad greens with the blueberries, walnuts, and raspberry vinaigrette.

2) Top with feta cheese to serve.

In Upstate New York, the month of May finds us anxiously awaiting summer’s official debut, and with it, crops of local fruits and vegetables. While we wait for the produce to ripen and “Pick-Your-Own”

orchards to open, why not plan ahead for light summer meals that use some of the region’s fresh ingredients? These salad and smoothie recipes require very little preparation and can serve as side dishes or full meals. Whether you’re planning a Sunday afternoon picnic in the park, or a casual meal in your own backyard, these healthy, kid-friendly recipes are sure to satisfy the whole family!

Happy National Salad Month! The entire month of May is a tribute to all things salad, try the following recipes for salads that are worth celebrating!

All salad recipes yield four servings.

By Julia Potash

Front Yard

14 GreenMom

Ingredients:16 ounce package tri-color pasta assortment1 large tomato, diced1/2 large cucumber, peeled and diced1/2 red onion, finely chopped8 ounces of Italian-style salad dressing

Directions:1) Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for eight to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and rinse in cold water.

2) In a salad bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, pasta and Italian dressing. Refrigerate overnight or for at least one hour.

Rainbow Pasta Salad

SmoothiesSmoothies are a quick, sweet, and nutritious way to cool off on a warm summer day. They’re also a delicious way for kids to eat fruits and veggies. These recipes yield one smoothie. Blend and enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups fresh berries3/4 cup low-fat plain yogurt1/2 cup orange juice1 tablespoon toasted wheat germ1 tablespoon honey1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ready to go outside and enjoy the beautiful weather? Try berry picking! Not only does it help you eat locally with farm fresh produce, it’s also beneficial for kids to learn about where their food comes from. Check out http://www.pickyourown.org/NY.htm to find a local “Pick-Your-Own” farm and start planning your berry picking outing!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup frozen strawberries1/4 cup nonfat milk 1/4 cup pineapple juice 1/4 cup vanilla yogurt1 tablespoon white sugar 3 ice cubes1/2 teaspoon wheat germ (optional)

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fat-free vanilla ice cream 1/2 cup orange juice1 orange, peeled and frozen1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Ingredients:

1/2 banana, cut into chunks1/2 cup grapes6 ounces vanilla yogurt1/4 apple, cored and chopped3/4 cup fresh spinach leaves

Orange Crush Smoothie

Groovy Green Smoothie

Strawberry Pineapple Smoothie

Citrus Berry Smoothie

Family Fun

2) Cut the watermelon into approximately ¾-inch cubes.

3) Arrange the watermelon cubes on chilled plates.

4) Sprinkle with crumbled feta, baby greens and mint leaves.

5) In a glass bowl, mix the olive oil and balsamic vinegar and whisk until combined.

6)Drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette and serve immediately.

Front Yard

Photo credits ibyangbabe, plat

15GreenMom

From Green to GoldHow an Albany spa won national awards with a DIY makeover

The JourneyDubois made the decision to convert her business from a traditional spa to an eco-friendly spa to stay abreast of current trends in the industry and to focus on total body wellness. “We wanted to use building materials that would support that philosophy for our employees, our guests and for the environment,” says Dubois. She started a blog called “A GreenSpa” on the company’s website, documenting the transition. One of the most important aspects, Dubois noted on her blog, was not just to have people take her at her word that the spa was eco-friendly, but for the spa itself to receive national recognition. Along

with her father, a construction manager; her brother, an engineer; and her two teenage sons, Dubois began the arduous process.

LEED Certification The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification was developed by the USGBC to recognize businesses for being green.To achieve certification, a building’s ranking is based on its performance in five key areas: sustainability, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources used in construction, as well as indoor environmental quality.

Receiving certification is a large task to undertake, even for big businesses. However,

this didn’t deter Dubois. Despite her inability to pay for LEED-accredited professionals, she used the resources she had at hand – her skilled and enthusiastic family – to help create a business worthy of LEED certification. “I could not have accomplished what I did without their support and help,” Dubois say.With family assistance, Complexions soon became an eco-friendly retreat, housing energy-efficient appliances, low-flow toilets and faucets, high-efficiency lighting, VIP parking for hybrid cars, and even drought-resistant plants outside that require minimal watering.

Mission AccomplishedIn April 2009, Dubois received notification that Complexions

Traditionally, spas offer soothing and relaxing treatments that almost anyone will relish: a hot stone massage to relieve the stress, a fresh mani/pedi to perfectly polish a look, an invigorating facial to rejuvenate the skin … And what could be more soothing than to receive these services in a place that cares enough about the environment to have been built using recyclable materials and is powered by wind and water sources?

In 1987, at just 20 years old, Denise Dubois opened Complexions Spa and Salon in the town of Colonie, a suburb of Albany; in 2008, she transitioned her business into an eco-friendly salon and spa. In 2009, Complexions became the first spa in the United States to receive Gold Level LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for a new construction, and remains the only spa in New York State with this distinction.

By Julia Potash

Photo Credits: Denise D

ubois

Green Scene

16 GreenMom

was officially approved for Gold LEED certification. In addition to this honor, Complexions is one of only seven beauty and spa centers in the U.S. to receive accreditation from CIDESCO (Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie), which is recognized internationally as the highest standard in the aesthetics industry. Complexions has also received awards from Energy Star and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

Green building, green servicesIt’s important to Dubois that the benefits of her spa services go beyond just feeling relaxed and pampered. While you’ll certainly revel in both, Dubois hopes that during and after a service, her clients experience rejuvenation, clarity, and a heightened sense of well-being, both physically and mentally.

The spa offers an extensive variety of natural treatments and therapies, from facials and body wraps to massages and

waxing. The Med Spa offers non-surgical, FDA-approved cosmetic procedures for both men and women to revitalize the skin. Complexions also boasts two hair studios – one for women and a special “BarberSpa” for men.

…and it’s getting biggerIn January 2012, Dubois announced that Complexions would be expanding. Expected to open this month, its new facilities will include a reception area for clients, a private event room, and additional space for hair and makeup services, and will be built with the same eco-friendly standards used in the original facility.

Instead of merely staying on top of the latest spa trends, Dubois has become a trailblazer in the industry. Her spa has set an example for other business owners who are considering becoming green … Let’s just hope they have family to help!

DuBoiswww.complexions.com518-690-0615221 Wolf Rd., Albany, NYTwitter: @Complexions

Words from Mom to Mom: Advice from Complexions Founder, Denise Dubois

Time management is crucial, and so is a reliable support team. I fortunately live within a few miles from my mother and father. I learned early on to use Sundays as my day to plan for the week. I create my menu of meals for the week and do my grocery shopping so I am prepared. On the weeks that I failed to do that it re-sulted in a very hectic week. I also found and depend on a wonderful helper at my home once a week. I consider this a necessity, not a luxury, to have someone help me with the cleaning of the house. It was so worth the cost to have someone do those tasks for me while I worked outside the home. That way when I got home from work at night I could make dinner and spend time with my children. I made it a point to all sit down together for dinner at night to pull everyone together. Even though they are getting older and have their own schedules now. My boys are 16 and 18 with one son away at college. I miss his presence and don’t know how I will handle the slow down in my schedule when my younger one goes away too.

Lift and Tone FacialThis treatment is geared to-ward those of us who cringe in the mirror at those pesky, tell-tale wrinkles. Special attention is given to areas around eyes, neck, lips, and jaw.

Mineral Marine Mud WrapSay that three times fast! This thermal therapy uses medicinal, marine mud, essential oils to naturally reduce inflammation, relieving joint and muscle pain.

Golf Ball MassageThis massage uses the deep pressure of warm and cool golf balls to alleviate tension. And the best part? The “SPAball” is yours to keep for use at home.

-Complexions Spa Treatments-

Green Scene

17GreenMom

Opening SeasonKnow where to go for fresh produce and other goodies this May

May marks the beginning of the season for fresh produce. Here are our listings of farmers markets that are either already open or will be opening soon. Save the dates, grab a reusable shopping bag, and support your local growers! For a more complete listing:www.agriculture.ny.gov

CNY Regional MarketWhere: 2100 Park St., Hiawatha Rd., I-81 Exit 23, SyracuseWhen: Thursday, Saturday, & Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This regional market offers many shopping opportunities. In addition to family-owned market vendors, make sure to stop in the boutique shops, where you can find everything from jewelry, to wine accessories, to decorative essentials for your home. The market offers a number of local eateries nearby where you can stop to eat before or after your visit.

Rochester Public MarketWhere: 280 N. Union St., RochesterWhen: Tuesday and Thursday 6am to 1pm Saturday 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Started in 1905, this public market is one of the oldest farmers markets in the nation and was recently voted America’s Favorite Farmers Market by the American Farmland Trust, an organization that supports a sustainable future for farms. The market is also going green through its Solar Power Project. It is one of the cheapest places to shop in Rochester – many large bags/boxes of food can be purchased for only $1 each! The market was voted “Best Place to People Watch” in Rochester City Newspaper in 2008.

Ithaca Farmers MarketWhere: Dewitt Park, N. Cayuga St. & E. Buffalo St., Ithaca; Steamboat Landing, 545 Third St. off Rt. 13When: Tuesday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dewitt Park; Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Steamboat Landing

With over 150 vendors, you can not only buy fresh produce but also wines, paintings, woodwork, clothing, and accessories. Foods such as sushi, burritos, and Sri Lankan cuisines are also available on site. Beyond the wide range of products and international cafes, you can also enjoy live music or plan a waterfront picnic with your family. To add to your visit, consider booking a boat tour and enjoy a ride up the Cayuga Lake.

Caroline Farmers Market Where: 522 Valley Rd., BrooktondaleWhen: Saturday 10am to 2pm, starting on May 5

Plants, crafts, and organic poultry are all available at this farmers market. If you take a trip here on May 12, you’ll also be able to shop from the annu-al Caroline Community Yard Sales at this market.

Otsiningo Park Farmers MarketWhere: Otsiningo Park, Bevier St., BinghamtonWhen: Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting on May 5

This farmers market features more than 30 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, grassfed and organic meats, and other homegrown fresh produce. In addition, you can also find a selection of homemade soaps and spa products. Pet treats are also available at the market.

Skaneateles Farmers MarketWhere: Austin Park Pavilion, 1 East Austin Street, SkaneatelesWhen:Thursday 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. starting on May 24

At this market, they have the usual fresh produce and also farm-inspired beauty care products at this market. The selection of bread, artisanal cheeses, and flowers can help you prepare a fancy homemade dinner.

GreenMom Tip: Go early or go late. Go to the farm-ers market early if you are looking for the best selection before it’s been picked over by other customers. Or, go late if you want to get the best deals since that’s when vendors try to get rid of that day’s produce.

By Ruqing Pan

Green Scene

18 GreenMom

By Ruqing Pan

Fresh Looks

19GreenMom

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor It is a measure of a sunscreen’s ability to prevent UVB damage to the skin. For example, say you usually burn within 20 minutes of being in the sun without any protection. If you put on sunscreen with SPF 15, in theory, it will take you 15 times longer to burn than it would with no SPF.

SPF 50 and SPF 100… practically the same?

The difference between SPF values is marginal at best. According to Dr. David M. Pariser, president of the Eastern Virginia Dermatology Foundation, sunscreen with SPF 100 blocks 99 percent of UVB rays, while products containing SPF 50 block 98 percent. Even SPF 30 blocks 96.7 percent of the sun’s harmful rays. A proposed rule to be included in the FDA’s list of changes would limit companies from listing their products over SPF 50, as “there is not sufficient data to show that products with SPF values higher than 50 provide greater protection for users than products with SPF values of 50.”

PABA-Free… is that for

me?

When you see a sunscreen advertised as “PABA-Free,” don’t immediately assume that this claim denotes a better product. This is another instance of companies exploiting the lack of marketing standards. PABA, according to the EWG, was once a popular ingredient used in sunscreen, but due to its tendency to stain clothes yellow and other negative side effects, is now rarely used. This means that it doesn’t have to say “PABA-Free” to be PABA-Free.

The American Cancer Society and Neutrogena have partnered since 2004 to bring awareness to skin cancer while promoting the use of sunscreen. However, the ACS does not endorse Neutrogena products, nor does it make the claim that Neutrogena offers higher quality sunscreen products than any other company. For the use of its logo, Neutrogena pays the ACS a royalty.

American Cancer Society

Neutrogena?

The FDA ruled in June 2011 that new guidelines for over-the-counter sunscreens will be put into effect beginning this summer. One of the rules will require companies to discontinue labeling their products with the words “waterproof,” “sweatproof,” or “sunblock” as all sunscreens wash off, and none completely block the effects of the sun. Also, labels on sunscreens with an SPF value between 2 and 14 will only be allowed to indicate that they offer protection against sunburn, as opposed to helping reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Increase Your Sunscreen IQbasic facts you should know5

Boosts Immunity Sunlight can help ward off

seasonal colds and even the flu: According to new research from the National Institutes of Health, there may be a direct effect of vitamin D on the immune system. Studies have shown that people with a low level of vitamin D in their system have more trouble fighting off viruses.

Helps You Sleep

Sunny mornings lead to restful nights. Exposure to sunlight during the day helps to regulate our internal biological clock, which in turn, helps us fall asleep more easily. Experts with the NIH recommend that people who have sleeping problems be exposed to an hour of morning sunlight.

Gets Rid of Cramps

That time of the month can be a pain in the wrong place, but spending some time in the sun can help relieve cramps. Sunlight helps balance out hormones and reduce fatigue and stress. This natural PMS remedy is due to increased levels of vitamin D in the body, during a time when chemicals are imbalanced.

On the Bright SideSoaking up the

sun’s rays still has its benefits!

SPF = Stay Pretty Fair?

New Rules on Labeling

Fresh Looks

By Julia Potash

Phot

o C

redi

ts: M

issio

n Sk

inca

re, B

adge

r Sun

scre

en, C

oppe

rton

e, C

alifo

rnia

Bab

y

20 GreenMom

Despite an SPF value of 50 and its well-known brand name, this Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen is one to avoid. It contains two of the chemicals that the EWG believes to be most harmful (oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate). This sunscreen by Badger is biodegradable and contains organic ingredients like jojoba oil and beeswax. Its natural ingredients earn it high ratings from the EWG as well as InStyle magazine, naming it a “Best Beauty Buy” of 2011.

The EWG recommends lip balms that not only have high SPF protection but that also contain ingredients that won’t be worrisome if swallowed. ChapStick’s lip balm contains an SPF of just four and a label that warns to receive emergency medical attention if the product is swallowed.

Sunscreen for KidsUse this!

Not that!

Why?

California Baby SPF 30+ Sunscreen Lotion

Where to buy: Target

Price: $18.99 for 2.9 oz.

Banana Boat Baby Tear-Free UltraMist Continuous Sunscreen Lotion Spray, SPF 50

Even though your kids may be less likely to wiggle and resist when you’re spritzing them as opposed to smearing them with lotion, try to stay away from spray bottles. According to the EWG, the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals from a spray sunscreen is much greater and can be harmful, especially to children, depending on the chemicals in the product. Despite Banana Boat’s “tear-free” claim, its spray formula is a reason to steer clear.

Coppertone Sensitive Skin, SPF 50

Where to buy: Walgreens

Price: $9.79 for 6.0 oz.

Walgreens Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 70+

This Walgreens sunscreen contains a chemical called retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A. While evidence remains inconclusive, scientific studies found that extended use of products containing this chemical may increase the risk of skin cancer or birth defects. Though the studies were conducted on mice, which are far more sensitive to skin cancer than humans, it’s wiser to choose one of the many products without retinyl palmitate, just to stay on the safe side.

We all recognize the importance of wearing sunscreen. When the Food and Drug Administration’s new rules regarding suncreen product advertising goes into effect, some experts say that the regulations are still not enough to ensure that these products

are as safe and efficient as they claim to be. So, how do we know that the sunscreen we slather on is actually protecting our skin? We’ve compiled our own list of categories that includes SPF products ranked at the top of the Environmental Working Group’s “best”

list, along with products that received high “hazard” ratings for their ingredients and lack of protection. EWG’s 2011 study analyzed 1,700 SPF-labeled products, including sunscreens, lip balms, moisturizers, and makeup, and rated them based on effectiveness and safety of their ingredients.

Sensitive skin

The `Screen Scene What to buy and what not to apply

Everyday Uses

Badger Sunscreen, Unscented, SPF 30+

Where to buy: Wegmans, Nature’s MarketPrice: $12.99 for 2.9 oz.

Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen, SPF 50

Lip Balm with SPF

Mission Skincare Lipbalmer SPF 15, Sweet Vanilla

Where to buy: CVS

Price: $3.19 for 0.1 oz.

ChapStick Classic Lip Balm, Cherry, SPF 4

By Julia Potash

Phot

o C

redi

ts: M

issio

n Sk

inca

re, B

adge

r Sun

scre

en, C

oppe

rton

e, C

alifo

rnia

Bab

y

Fresh Looks

21GreenMom

The dream came to the two women when they had nothing but time on their hands, and sturdy

walking shoes on their feet. It was 1991, and Liz Walker and Joan Bokaer were on a cross-country trek to draw attention to their greatest passion: protecting the environment. Walker and Bokaer started talking on their long walk about living green. Except living it to a degree most people wouldn’t consider. Really living it.

That’s how EcoVillage Ithaca was conceived. The core idea: a place where families would live side by side, sharing the joys and responsibilities of what the founders call an “alternative model for suburban living.” Emphasizing “a satisfying, healthy, socially rich lifestyle,” EcoVillage would be all about sustainable practices — long before that

City on a HillA Shining

EcoVillage Ithaca set out to create a green utopia. Would you settle for utopia-ish? By Ruqing Pan and Christina Riley

became the buzzword it is now. Natural surroundings, organic farming, low-impact environmentalism at every turn, all governed by people working and living together (albeit in single-family homes). They chose a scenic hilltop overlooking the city and Cornell University campus, and broke ground on FRoG (First Resident

Group), the first of today’s two 30-home neighborhoods, that same year.If it sounds utopian, and a little hippy-dippy, Walker is quick to put it in more wholesome, everyday terms. “We wanted to create a wonderful village that would be environmentally friendly and affordable

and open to a wide variety of people,” she says. “We were just dreaming big.”

That big dream goes far beyond this EcoVillage. It’s a worldwide movement of more than 1,000 communities, some as complete as the Ithaca community; some as simple as a food co-op that considers itself a community. Either way, the concepts

are well-developed — and hugely daunting to the rest of us, who might well feel like energy-wasting failures by comparison. After all, ours is a culture that still groans about the burden of putting cans in blue bins.

There’s no denying EcoVillage’s success, 21 years in the making. SoNG (Second Neighborhood Group) joined FRoG in 2002. There are two organic farms, two community centers, and plans for more growth soon. But even in this enviro-paradise, some residents struggle to live up

“We were just dreaming big.” -Liz Walker

Photo Credit: James Bosjolie

23GreenMom

to each and every ideal. And they struggle in ways we’d all find familiar. It turns out Kermit the Frog was right: It’s not that easy being green. From her office — she works at home, in FRoG, as EcoVillage’s executive director — Liz Walker can look out over the fields (sorry, no chemically groomed lawns) and see her neighbors walking their dogs or running, or the kids playing. Walker and her husband live in a 1,340-square-foot house powered by solar energy. Its 14-foot-high windows allow for plenty of natural daylight, which helps heat the house during the winter. “It’s relatively small for an American house,” she admits, “but it was fine for our family of four when my kids were growing up here.”

Sustainable housing figures prominently in EcoVillage’s world view. The earth-toned homes have creative solar power designs and are insulated with six to seven feet of recycled newspaper. They also feature triple-paned fiberglass windows that protect the home from the cold. Even bathroom time is eco-friendly, with composting toilets. The community shares an innovative hot water system with one gas boiler per cluster of six to eight homes. Most of EcoVillage’s energy comes from solar sources.

Early on, EcoVillage set aside 90

percent of its land for open space, organic farming, wildlife, and recreation. The neighborhoods got the remaining 10 percent. Residents own their homes but band together in providing the muscle and making the decisions needed to run the larger community. Participation is key. Residents volunteer for teams where they help cook meals, wash dishes, clean the common house, organize the finances, or help maintain the property. Walker has been first among equals

throughout EcoVillage’s two decades. But she doesn’t come across as boss of anything. The passionate, kind, and dedicated Walker usually takes a break at noon, gets together with her friends for a little walk, or goes over to a friend’s house in another neighborhood for lunch. “In summer, I might go for a dip in the pond,” she says. “We have a one-acre pond that is great for swimming.”

The community shares a full-featured wood shop, metal shop, and recycling/bike shed. Compost bins litter the landscape (if you’ll pardon the choice of words). Two 10-acre,

on-site farms supply fresh vegetables and fruit — organically grown, of course — to EcoVillage families and the outside community.In the evenings, Walker usually goes to the common house where friends and neighbors catch up over dinner or when porch-sitting. Afterward she might head over to her women’s group and have some more conversations — about the day they had, or weightier issues. It’s not, it seems, a place for brooding

loners. There are book clubs, gardening groups, a women’s group, and a “parents of teens” group. “There’s a strong sense of connection, both with people and with the natural environment,” Walker agrees. That extends from social life to the tasks at hand. Walker adds, “We do ask people to contribute to the community when they live here. So they are asked to put in at least two hours a week towards the good of the community.”Walker is on the cooking team. She plans and makes two meals for the community every month. She says the number of residents who come to the community meal could vary from 30 to 80 people, depending on what night of the week it might be.This is just what Marty Hiller wanted when she fled Boston nine years ago for EcoVillage. In Boston, Hiller says, she felt disconnected from her neighbors. They didn’t share her desire to live a green, sustainable lifestyle. She came from a place where a 2,000-foot home was considered small to a place where she loves her 1,200-foot house. “I really like the way the EcoVillage enables the sustainable lifestyle,” she says. “Here, there are enough people around me who all

“I don’t feel like an oddball. So that’s a really big plus.” -Marty Hiller

EVI resident Karryn Olson-Ramanujan holds her daughter, Kalyani at EVI in 2004.

Photo Credit: Jam

es Bosjolie

24 GreenMom

are concerned about the same things so that I don’t feel like an oddball. So that’s a really big plus.”In addition to a sense of kinship, Hiller believes EcoVillage offers a safe place for her 11-year-old daughter. “There are sheltered environments, and I know all the other parents,” she says. “I don’t have to drive to get her to a playground. EVI has the playground, the swimming pond ... so there’s a lot of convenience. It’s less work to manage.”Hiller admits, though, that the social environment doesn’t work as well for her as for her daughter. “I’m more lonely more of the time than I would expect to be,” she says. “So that, I would say, is probably the biggest disappointment.”

Residents of FROG and SoNG pose after completing building a bridge between the two neighborhoods. Construction on the bridge started at 9:00am and ended at 1:00pm.

Photo Credit: James Bosjolie

Photo Credit: James Bosjolie

A more general disappointment, says 10-year resident Deanna Berman, stems from living atop a steep hill. “We travel a lot,” says Berman, a mom with two young girls.

“People are always leaving. I drive up and down the hill usually three times a day. So it might seem like it’s greener to the people who live here ... but the reality is, I think we have a big impact with our travel.” It’s not just the residents’ hybrids and mini-vans. It’s UPS trucks. Berman says, “With the amount of purchasing we do by mail order, I don’t think our lifestyle is much greener than others.”All this attempted green living, she says, adds up to hard work toward a goal that sometimes feels just a little out of reach. “We’ve tried. I’ve tried to make changes,” she says with a hint of exasperation.

EVI residents and guests take a break to enjoy playing with sidewalk chalk one afternoon.

25GreenMom

“There’re a bunch of people here who felt like we tried to make an impact but haven’t. It takes a lot of energy.”

Energy can mean both the figurative (effort) and literal (of the unleaded variety). And that’s a pretty common barrier to true green living, says Jack Manno, an associate professor at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry who specializes in sustainability. “We want things to be convenient,” Manno says. “Most people have, at least they feel like they have, more of a shortage of time than energy or money. So, people trade off. We all use a lot more energy than we necessarily need because we want things to be convenient.”

Residents of a place like EcoVillage have at least a theoretical advantage. For the rest of us, says Manno, “The problem is with thinking ‘What can we do as individuals?’ but that’s not going to work. We’ve got to have social systems that are organized to support people in living green and living well. We have to develop these systems. We have to create the opportunities where it’s possible for people to participate in doing this and it’s going to take quite a bit of effort to live green.”

In the end, he says, “You have to make a commitment to a particular place, and you have to make sure that things go well there and that’s hard to do.”

An EcoVillage FRoG resident of nearly 20 years, Suzanne Kates, a mother of two, agrees, but puts a more positive spin on it than Berman might. “It doesn’t always work perfectly for sure but when it does work it’s really, really satisfying. Living here, it creates a laboratory type of experience in a way when you can actually put the environmental things into use. And people around you are all doing that, and that’s very encouraging.”

Liz Walker understands these challenges. In creating EcoVillage, she wanted to reduce the difficulty that often prevents people from living a low-impact lifestyle. But she

recognizes the community is not perfect. Only eight EcoVillage adults actually bike to destinations outside, Walker says. To return, “It’s about a 25-minute bike ride straight uphill. It’s a great form of exercise but you really have to want to do it.”

The recession, Walker notes, has complicated EcoVillage’s need to attract residents. It’s been challenging to find people who have the flexibility to sell their house, sometimes in another state, and move here. House values are comparable for the Ithaca market. But, she points out, buying in means investing also in the common properties, in addition to your actual living space. It’s likely out of reach for 20-somethings in their first jobs.

On June 9, EcoVillage is set to break ground for TREE, its third neighborhood, this one with 40 homes and a common house with a shared kitchen, dining area, laundry, and a playroom for children. TREE will be more affordable and accessible than the other two neighborhoods, designed for the elderly and others with mobility impairments. EcoVillage is seeking federal, state, and city funding to help subsidize some of the households in TREE.

Walker hopes TREE will also improve EcoVillage’s record on diversity — economic, racial, and otherwise. “We have some diversity — we do have between 12 and 15 percent people of color

TREE is expected to break ground.

here — but it would be nice to be more racially diverse,” she says. “So the ways we are trying to really reach some of our values

that seemed harder to do 20 years ago, are coming into greater focus at this point.”

Walker hasn’t lost the optimism she felt when she dreamed big on that cross-country walk 21 years ago. But, as she’d be the first to admit, success sometimes is like riding a bike up a steep hill. You really have to want it.

1990-1991 Joan Bokaer, co-founder of EVI, developed vision for an “ecovillage” during the Global Walk for a Liveable World, an environmental walk across U.S which included Liz Walker.

1991

Joan and Liz began fundraising for $400,000 in gifts and loans.

1997FRoG was completed. Common House opened in August for first time.2001 SoNG receives final Town approvals. Groundbreaking on the infrastructure for SoNG began.

2003 EVI officially became a village, with homes in SoNG homes completed.

2007Root cellar constructed, designed by Ithaca College Students and built by EVI residents. Passive solar bus shelter completed. TREE began to meet.

June, 2012

1992 First meeting of EcoVillage residents group takes place with 50 people attending.

26 GreenMom

Back Yard

AC, the Green Way

Cool Eats

Being green can be costly but it doesn’t always have to be. Here are five budget-friendly tips that will boost the green in your home and your pocket!

Boost the green without spending itLean Green Tips

It’s that time of year where heaters click off and the AC turns on. Instead of adjusting the thermostat, consider opening the windows or using the ceiling fan as a more energy-efficient way to cool your home. Think of the AC as a last resort: According to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), more than half of the energy bill goes toward heating and cooling. In fact, air conditioners use about 5% of all electricity produced in the U.S., costing over $11 billion to homeowners.

Sunshine can be beneficial in more ways than one. For your home, if you’re spending your daylight hours inside, consider brightening your room with natural sunshine instead of flipping on the switch. Open the blinds and curtains to add an airy feel to your home. For health, as we’re emerging from the dreary winter blues, a little sunlight can help better your mood, especially for those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the Mayo Clinic, opening blinds and sitting close to bright windows can serve as a home remedy to SAD.

Sun for Home and Health:

It’s time to start making salads, lemonades, and other cold summer treats. Check out our food section for some great summer recipes! The warmer weather gives us the perfect excuse to prepare light meals that don’t require the use of a stove or oven that are both high-energy consumers. NYSERDA says there’s no way to really make stoves “energy-efficient” so preparing raw or cold foods is the best way to reduce that energy. On average, the stove uses 2,500 watts to cook a meal: that’s equivalent to the electricity used by 33 switched-on 75-watt lightbulbs!

Before You Go:What’s summer without a vacation? Whether you’re leaving your home for a few hours or few weeks, unplug your appliances before you lock the door. Kitchen appliances and other household items still use electricity when plugged in even if they are turned off and use the same amount of energy as a 75-watt light bulb when turned on.

To calculate your home’s energy usage: www.energysavers.gov

By Christina Riley

Nature’s Dryer The weather is warming up! Instead of drying clothes in an energy-zapping machine, try hanging them outside and letting them air dry instead. Not only will it help to reduce your power bill and give you a moment of fresh air, but also give your clothes a fresh summery scent that you can’t buy in stores. According to research from Michael Bluejay, energy researcher, changing from drying clothes in a machine to air-drying can save families an average of $200 a year. So, save some money and get the kids involved for a fun family chore!

Photo Credit: Aidan

27GreenMom

Mom blog of the month:What She Said...

Karley Ziegler Mott is a self proclaimed “thrift shop treasure hunter” from Rochester and mother of two young boys. Combining her years of experience as an aesthetician and makeup artist with her love of writing, she began her blog, “Chic & Green” in 2007 to share natural skin care recipes and reviews of eco-friendly green beauty products.

Chic & Green

Chic & Green has been written about in publications such as Canadian Living, Rochester’s Democrat & Chronicle, Apartment Therapy, and on Alicia Silverstone’s webpage, The Kind Life. It was also featured in Martha Stewart’s Body + Soul Magazine (now Whole Living) in 2008, and was a Nominee for Best Blog of 2011 by the Rochester City Newspaper.

Freebies! Recent giveaways from C&G include a vintage-inspired dress from online

boutique, Shabby Apple ($86 value) and Made From Earth’s vitamin-enhanced moisturizer ($75 value).

Expertise! Want Adele’s red-carpet makeup look? Ziegler Mott tells you which natural,

chemical free lipstick, foundation, eyeliner and mascara you’ll need to recreate that elegant appearance. Love Michelle Obama’s classic style? Ziegler Mott finds unique, handmade eco-friendly creations by local artisans on Etsy and Pinterest to help you create your own First Lady look. She’ll also break down the ingredients in common cosmetics and beauty products.

Meet the Writer:

Who’s Noticed:

Why We Love It:

Blog: www.chicandgreendaily.com

Consulting webpage: www.karleyzieglermott.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chicandgreenTwitter: @ChicandGreenPinterest: http://pinterest.com/Chicandgreen

Etsy shop: Loubird’s Nest http://www.etsy.com/shop/loubirdsnestFeaturing handmade necklaces, earrings, rings, hair adornments and bookmarks

Want smooth, summer-ready skin without having to purchase a costlybody

exfoliator? Make your own, using one of Karley Ziegler Mott’s favorite DIY recipes featured on Chic & Green!

Strawberry Coconut Scrub

Ingredients:

1 strawberry with leaves removed1 teaspoon coconut oilUp to 1/2 teaspoon sunflower oil1 to 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar or brown sugar

Directions:

1) Purée strawberry and coconut oil in a food processer or chopper. 2) Pour the puréed mixture into a small mixing bowl.3) Stir in sunflower oil and preferred amount of sugar. (More sugar will create a thicker scrub)

4) Apply to hands, feet, arms and legs for soft, sweet-smelling skin!

By Julia Potash

Creativity! Ziegler Mott offers inspired ideas and simple instructions for fun DIY beauty

projects using materials that can be found at a local natural food or grocery store. Previous DIYs have included an aromatherapy blend muscle soother, a grapefruit facial mist, and cocoa body butter.

D.I.Y.

To keep up-to-date on all things “Chic and Green” make sure to follow Karley Ziegler Mott on her other sites:

Back Yard

Photo Credit: Chic and Green

28 GreenMom

1. Homemade Cards: Mom will really appreciate a scribbled, crayon-colored card that captures a charm and meaning that Hallmark just can’t create. So, grab the crayons, paper, glue, and some sparkly knickknacks and make mom an unforgettable greeting card that says ‘We love you!’ in a really special way.

2. Personal Playlist: Dad, this should be a simple yet meaningful gift to put together for mom. Create a list of songs: ones that she loves and ones that remind you of her and upload this ‘Mother’s Day Mix’ to her iPod.

3. Coupon Clipper: If mom regularly cuts coupons, she’ll really appreciate you taking this time-consuming task off her hands for a weekend: Get up a little earlier to read through the Sunday paper before she does and clip the coupons for her. Make sure you find all the ones she normally cuts out — this might take a little snooping around to find out what products she buys. She’ll appreciate having one less thing on her to-do list.

Ok, dad. Mother’s Day is coming. Let’s not do the same store-bought card, grocery

aisle flowers and microwaved breakfast in bed to show mom we care. Instead, this year, let’s be a little more innovative and show mom we really do care and appreciate all she does. To help you out, here are some eco-friendly ideas that she’ll love!

Mother’s Day Our Way!

A mini-vacation at the spa is a great way to make mom feel special. Terra Organic Spa in Fayetteville offers a full range of services that use 100% organic products. Mom can get treatments ranging from a “Jojoba Honey Foot Experience” and “Herbal Body Glow” to a Swedish massage and personalized facial. If you’re not quite sure which she’d prefer, a gift certificate is an excellent option.

Spa Day

www.terraorganicspa.com (315) 637-0767

Candles

www.greenhousesoycompany.com

Fragrant, thoughtful gifts are sure to please Mom with every sniff. Candles are a great way to freshen a room and an eco-friendly alternative to flipping on the light switch. The candles at Greenhouse Soy Company are made using non-toxic, biodegradable, eco-friendly, natural soy wax from 100% natural soybeans. They have a wide range of scents and sizes to choose from.

Day DateCall up a relative or the usual babysitter to

watch the kids for an afternoon and take mom out on a romantic day date to the iconic, scenic and award-winning Finger Lakes wine country, home to almost 100 wineries located around the three main Finger Lakes. Many offer “signature events” each month and some also feature intimate cafés and charming bistros. It might take a little bit of planning, but we know with some effort, you can make this a really special day for mom.www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com

Made with LoveHomemade gifts that will warm mom’s heart

Back Yard

By Christina Riley

Food Gift Baskets If mom is a foodie, get the kids to help with a

personalized basket of her favorite foods. In this case, going to the grocery store for mom’s gift is totally acceptable. Pick up several of mom’s favorite items from the “Nature’s Marketplace” section at Wegmans grocery store. They offer a wide selection of organic fruits, gluten-free snack bars, chips and cereals, and natural juices, just to name a few. Mom will appreciate having her favorite things within arm’s reach on those crazy busy days.

Photo Credit: Gislane Lima

30 GreenMom