Draft Dodger

The spring thaw is definitely happening and warmth is showing up every now and again, so I need to post this one quickly before it is completely irrelevant for many months. (Okay, so it is already past that point, but it is so darn cute.) I picked up this adorable draft dodger at my favorite fair trade store, but was in the Serrv international catalog (http://www.serrv.org/). Even if they are not carrying it this season, this is a great fair trade website. Peruse at you own risk. The jewelry is addictive. (the Divine white chocolate bars are amazing.) Be forewarned, it might be best to freeze your credit card in a block of ice first. Anyways, back to the draft dodger, I live in a very drafty apartment. There is little I can do because, well, I rent, so no structural changes. The draft dodger is a cute and handy way to prevent heat loss. Also, many websites give instructions how to make one yourself, but I have yet to become that crafty. If you are interested though, as always Google is a great way to find some. Well, this post became a bit more sporadic than I meant, oh well, spring tends to addle my mind a bit.

French Press and Fair Trade Coffee

So, I lost interest during the summer of posting. (Not in being more environmental, just posting) but tonight while putting off washing dishes, I am suddenly motivated.

This post is about a nifty little coffee pot my aunt gave me. It saves on filters. (I do have a traditional coffee pot for when I have more guest than this little guy can handle, but it stays unplugged and I only use unbleached filters on the rare occasion that the big guy is used.) The French Press coffee pot is great for two to three cups of coffee. It is quick and easy for me in the morning as well. I have also taken to buying only fair trade coffee. This toffee caramel version is yummy. It is sustainably grown and helps out small farmers. I purchased it at a ten thousand villages partner store. Go to http://www.equalexchange.com/ to learn more about their products.

Fair Trade

I have been trying to purchase more fair trade products. It is definitely a more socially conscious option. There is a fair trade store in my little town that is practically across the street. So I grab my canvas bag and walk over there when I need to find a present for someone (or a splurge for myself). They have items from a greater gift and Ten Thousand Villages. I have ordered online from both before and had good service. The websites are http://www.greatergift.org/ and http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/ both great places to check out.