I have yet to venture into the world of “no-poo.” I know, I know. What’s the big deal? Just do it already. Well, I’m working up to it (or so I think.)  I have been trying to at least buy products that are more healthy for my hair as compared to the average bottle. The latest shampoo that I’ve been using is Renpure Organics My Luscious Hair Needs Lift! Volumizing Shampoo. I got it for a decent price at Wal-mart, but you can get it at other stores or even online. I have to say, that I’m really pleased with this product. The scent is very nice (mix of ginger and aloe) and I have found that a little bit goes a long way, even though I have some pretty long locks. I’m not crazy about “fragrance” being on the list of ingredients (even if it is the last one mentioned) since that means unknown chemicals. I looked up Renpure on the EWG Skin Deep database, and they only have one product listed. I’m hoping that they’ll add to the list so I can see how the Volumizing Shampoo measures up. I can’t speak to their line of conditioners, as I have yet to try any of them. (Unfortunately, I’m finishing up some Garnier Nutrisse stuff that I really have come to despise.) In the mean time, I’ll be using this shampoo until I muster up enough nerve to go with just baking soda and vinegar and then eventually nothing at all. Someday…

I’m always on the lookout for unique, artistic items that also happen to be green. Most people who know me know my style and often send me some great links. This comes courtesy of my mother-in-law. She recently had me check out this link, which takes you to The Spoon Jeweler’s website. The jewelry made out of spoons is pretty incredible and decently priced. (I like the ones that incorporate pearls the most.) After perusing the site, I then ventured out to see if there are other places with some old silverware ware. (Ha!) I really liked this place because they go above and beyond jewelry. (Check out the wall hooks, refillable pen, and thing-a-ma-cobs!) More jewelry items can be found here. This shop on Etsy includes bracelets, cheese markers, key rings, and more. If you like these ideas and are feeling a bit crafty, you can do some yourself. Directions for different projects involving old silverware can be found here. These one-of-a-kind treasures would make great gifts or add some interest to your personal decor. Everyday items with a whole new purpose…ahh…the beauty of reusing.

I’m loving the homemade, all-natural, I-know-what’s-in-it beauty recipes these days. I really want to switch up the deodorant I’ve been using since I know so many over-the-counter ones have many chemicals and compounds in them that just shouldn’t be put on to and absorbed by the skin. (ie. aluminum) I began looking up some ways to do this online, and found this great idea at The Pistachio Project. I think the recipe sounds easy enough and I like the idea of using an old deodorant container. If you peruse The Pistachio Project, you’ll find loads of other great ideas, from cloth diapering to uses for coconut oil to how to cut down on the chlorine in your tap water. It’s a fun, fabulous resource that I hope you can check out. Back to homemade deodorants. There are other suggestions here (I like the thought of using tea tree oil or lavender oil in the mix) and here (This recipe does not include cornstarch or baking soda, which some people have found to cause rashes). I’m looking forward to no longer having to purchase my deodorant at the store. I’m tired of the unpronounceable ingredients or products that don’t work. (I tried Tom’s of Maine and I really wanted to like it, but I stunk!) Here’s to sweet smelling armpits with better ingredients and a cheaper price!