EWG at it again

You might already be familiar with Environmental Working Group's "Clean 15" and "Dirty Dozen". It's a great way for those of us who can't buy all of our fruits and veggies organically to be able to focus on the more highly contaminated items we consume on a regular basis. I know I could easily go crazy buying every organic product on the market, but I'd also go broke, and I don't have to do that to minimize my and my family's exposure to toxins in foods. I just got an email from EWG today about their release of an updated Dirty Dozen and Clean 15. Click here for a printable guide and watch the video for more info.

#2

Again?
Yes.
Already?
Yes.

We thought it was time that we shared with you, if we have not already, that on or near November 8th Baby Martin number 2 will make his or her appearance. So yes, at 15 months of age, Asher will be a big brother! And Mama and Papa will be blessed parents of 2. (and then I might be done with maternity clothes for a while :) )

Taking Cloth Diapering a Step Further

I love cloth diapering. Sure it was a chunk of change to hand over upfront, but it has paid off tenfold. And knowing that each diaper is being reused and not needlessly thrown away makes my green spirit sing. However, when I read about cloth wipes, I was a bit skeptical. It just sounded extreme (and nasty). But when I really thought about it, it made perfect sense. I'm already doing the laundry and it's actually more convenient to throw the dirty wipes into the diaper pail where things are already dirty, than it is to throw them in an open, lidless trash can that doesn't prevent odors from emanating.

So, I took some used receiving blankets made from organic cotton and cut them into 8X8 squares. Then I folded them in half and stuck them an old Huggies container. Instead of pouring a soap solution directly onto the wipes (I feared that the ones on bottom might get a bit mildewy) I filled a squirt bottle with filtered water, a few slices of all natural, organic lavender bar soap and a touch of pure olive oil for some lubrication. So each time I go to use a wipe, a few squirts help to moisten it up. They've worked wonderfully so far, cost nothing to make, and will continue to save money and some lush, green Earth.

8 Months

Last week on the 12th little Asher turned 8 months old. Still not having much luck getting him to smile for posed pics. Guess he's more of a candid guy... Here are pics from all of month 7.

One Man's Trash

This just may be my best side-of-the-road find ever! I spotted it driving home from life group this afternoon.
Do you think they're giving that away...
I dunno. Ben replies as he keeps driving.
Stop the car. I hop out and approach the apparent home owner who is on his mower as Ben hides his face in embarrassment. (Hasn't he lived in BG long enough to know these things are not only normal but completely accepted???) Turns out that the guy's little one outgrew it. Just as I suspected. Score.

So with a little help from Bo and Erin and their hatchback, Asher now has his first outdoor swing (and then some). All we needed to do was wipe it down and attach a strap to hold him in the swing. Fun, fun :)

Adventures in Eating

Adventures in Eating from Sara Martin on Vimeo.

Check It

My amazing husband did some research and found out about a farmer's market coming to BG! It's about time people! Let's hope it's and good one and I can say bye-bye to driving to Fallen Timbers and Perrysburg. Can't wait to walk up the street for some fresh, local, and hopefully pesticide-free produce!

Easter Sailor

Our neighbor gave us this sweet little sailor suit which I thought would make a handsome outfit for Easter Sunday. Dare you not to eat those chubby legs stickin' out!