Chemical-Free Kids

Chemical-Free Kids is a great book for parents about the importance of limiting chemicals (dyes, synthetics, etc.) in your child's diet. Check out this interview clip from News Channel 3 in Phoenix with Chemical-Free Kids author, Anthony Zolezzi as well as the CFK website for more information about the book including recipes, facts, sign up for their e-newsletter and the CFK Tip of the Day.

Tackling my garden phobia

After months of putting it off, I decided that now is as good a time as ever to start taking steps towards my goal of having my own garden. Initially, the task seemed extremely intimidating, considering my track record with house plants (I've even killed a cactus! A cactus!!! How can you kill something that doesn't really need watering or anything else for that matter?!)

But after a lot of consideration and encouragement from fellow gardening newbies, I've decided to get over my fear of my 'black' thumb and my the excuses and take a stab at it. I've been eyeing some cool recycled pots / planters at the local gardening store, (they're cheaper than the non-recycled ones!) a bunch of seeds and some starter soil. I figure I can start with a small planter and upgrade as long as things keep growing (fingers crossed!), hopefully leading to more homegrown fruits, veggies and herbs (and less money at the grocery store).

Tara Burner wrote a great article on her blog, Container Gardening, on getting your own garden started (even if space is limited... i.e., live in an apartment). Check out her easy to follow tips. I'll keep you all posted on my gardening endeavor. Wish me luck!

Organic Offerings at a Luxurious AZ Resort

The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa in Carefree, AZ - Photo Courtesy of The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa website

In an effort to keep up with a growing demand for environmentally conscious and organic items in resorts, The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa in beautiful Carefree, Arizona, began introducing a variety of eco-friendly options over the last few years for both guests and natives.

Among their efforts, the resort has been using natural insecticides on the golf course and implementing water conservation techniques throughout the property.


The elegant resort also boasts an Organic Garden meeting and events venue perfect for enjoying organic meals al fresco in our beautiful desert setting. The healthy and organic experience includes organic wine tastings, organic cooking demonstrations and classes utilizing locally grown and organic fruits and vegetables in the Organic Garden, as well as tours of the garden. The garden is host to a variety of herbs, veggies, prickly pear cacti, chili and grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange, fig and kumquat trees.

In addition, the resort's retail store, the Golden Door Home Store at el Pedegral marketplace, added Golden Door Spa-inspired luxury products that are also environmentally conscious. The boutique's home and personal care lines include organic cotton towels and bedding, eco-friendly clothing for the whole family and body care products with organic ingredients.

The Boulders Golden Door Spa - Photo Courtesy of The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa website

Every bit helps and The Boulders is definitely doing their part. The resort is absolutely beautiful - a great setting for couples and families. My family has taken many stay-cations at The Boulders during the summer months when rates are lower (and check out spa specials for locals!). Definitely worth venturing to Carefree for a stay.

A big thanks to Debora Bridges at The Bridges Media Group for providing the scoop on the green efforts at The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa.

The Herb Box

I know it's been a while, lots of craziness lately. However, I did have the pleasure of dining on the patio at The Herb Box in DC Ranch.

The Herb Box restaurant and catering company boasts a delectable, fresh menu with everything from salads to burgers and prides themselves on using as much locally-grown and produced items (including organic) whenever possible. The company has also been the sole caterer for the Thunderbird's private tent at the FBR Open for the past few years and has received rave reviews from Thunderbirds and guests (I can attest their bartender makes a mean bloody mary to kick off your Open festivities.)

The Herb Box currently has 2 locations in the valley: DC Ranch in North Scottsdale and Shea Blvd in Scottsdale.

Dave the Garden Guy...

will be at the University of Phoenix Stadium today beginning at 11:30am to answer all of your organic gardening questions at the Southwest Flower & Garden Show (March 6,7 & 8th).

Easy ways to go green TODAY

It's not local, but here's a GREAT article from SimpleMom green columnist/blogger Maya Bisineer. Some great and EASY tips to live a more 'green' lifestyle.

Bootstrap Your Green Efforts: 10 Ways To Go Green TODAY

We've all heard of the green revolution but it can be overwhelming to figure out on our own what is do-able. I think all of us could incorporate at least a few of these on a daily basis. Every bit helps!

Toxic Produce

Dr. Amy O'Hara from the Derma Health Institute was on ABC 15's Sonoran Living Live this morning talking about organic. Check out her clip here: