Saving Family Green: August 2010

Whole Foods Market® - Sale! grass-fed beef $3.99/lb.

For one day only, Friday, September 3rd, Whole Foods Market® will feature grass-fed beef for only $3.99 / lb!

In honor of Labor Day, give grass-fed beef a try and check out Whole Foods Market® grass-fed beef page to learn about all the benefits.

Whole Foods Market® - Horizon Organic Milk Boxes 18-pack for $11.99

There is a great deal going on right now (and I'm not sure for how long) at Whole Foods (Columbus, OH and I'm sure other locations) on the price of Horizon Organic Milk Boxes 18-pack. They are regularly priced $13.99 for 18 individual Organic Milk Boxes, however right now there is a $2 off coupon available at the register. These coupons are not in the Whole Deal, but there appears to be an unlimited number that you can purchase.

Horizon Organic Milk Boxes 18-pack
Reg. $13.99
$2/1 Coupon available at the register (no limit)

The Anderson's - This Week's Sale Items

Sustainable Saturday - 5 Tips for Eco-Friendly Tailgating!

I honestly can't believe it's that time of the year when it's time to think about football. As I listened to the band play last evening at our local high school football game, I had the realization that fall is on its way.

So you're headed to the game next weekend and you want to improve your overall experience by reducing the amount of trash associated with tailgating. As you can tell I bleed scarlet and gray (Ohio State) for those of you non-football fans. At Ohio State I've heard that the grounds staff spends something like an entire day cleaning up after a home football game due to the amount of trash. Now I agree that this is ridiculous in itself and people in general should take responsibility for their mess, what if everyone had incentive to take their trash home by placing it in their compost pile or getting perks for recycling.

In the past I've done posts on the benefits of both. You can read about Composting Basics and the RecycleBank program here, here and here.

5 Tips for Eco-Friendly Tailgating!

1. Purchase compostable, biodegradable and sustainable paper products like ultra green, Earth Shell or Solo Bare. I would like to point out that if you do purchase something that is biodegradable only or plan on placing one of the products listed above into a trash bag headed for the landfill, it will not biodegrade. Nothing biodegrades a 100% in a landfill that is not a composting landfill. If you place these products in a separate container or bag to be placed in your compost pile these products will easily break down, usually within a week in my experience, and you will benefit from rich compost for your garden and yard.

2. Tasty Beverages are usually an essential part of any tailgating experience. Whether you are talking about some Horizon Organic Chocolate Milk Boxes or some local brews. One of our favorite companies is Great Lakes Brewing Company. Great Lakes Brewing Company is a principle-centered, environmentally respectful and socially conscious company committed to crafting fresh, flavorful, high-quality beer and food for the enjoyment of their customers. Located in on the West Side in Cleveland, OH, they distribute to 13 states in the U.S.

Great Lakes Brewing Company on Sustainability:

Great Lakes Brewing Company is an environmentally and socially conscious brewer of award-winning, all natural beer. The care that goes into the beer resonates from a commitment to the community and environment, otherwise known as the "Triple Bottom Line" - to engage in economic, social and environmental practices that achieve a sustainable, yet profitable, business.
We believe the Triple Bottom Line is going to become increasingly important as people focus more on responsible purchasing. This commitment to sustainability is present in almost every aspect of our business including:

Reducing, reusing and recycling
Changing natural resource use from "Take, Make, Waste" to "Take, Make, Remake"
Implementing efficient energy practices
Investing in the community through non-profit organizations
Supporting sustainable urban renewal projects

You can read about their Pint Size Farm and even more Sustainable Initiatives here.

3. Meat is another essential for tailgating. Look for either a Local Farmer's Market or Farm to purchase your meat to get a better quality product and lessen the impact on the environment. We purchase meat from a farm in Ashtabula County. You can also look for products like Laura's Lean Ground Beef at your local grocery store for a more environmentally friendly option.

4. Supplement some of your tailgate fair by going meatless. A great way to do this is with beans (black, pinto, kidney) to make a variety of dishes like nachos, chili (a fan favorite), fajitas, etc. I like to cook my beans ahead in a big pot and freeze them in quart freezer bags for easy use later on. These are a great way to make a portion your tailgate fare meatless and so easy to grab a couple bags from the freezer and put them in the cooler.

5. Purchase tailgate essentials from your local Farmer's Markets to get local and organic fresh produce, meats and even dairy products. Not all items found at Farmer's Markets are Organic, however many people argue that Local and Fresh are just as important, if not more so than Organic.

You can search for Local Farmer's Markets in your area at Local Harvest.

Read about The New Dirty Dozen: 12 Foods to Eat Organic

I suppose I've started a Series by accident. You can read more about my Tips for Eco-Friendly living:

10 Tips to Buying Organic on a Budget
5 Tips for Eco-Friendly Back-to-School
Tips for a Eco-Friendly Vacation

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

You can check out all of Whole Foods Market® Hot Deals here. These prices are valid from August 25th thru August 31st.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Bone-In Beef NY Strip Steaks
Save big on this tender favorite!
Sale! $9.99 lb
Reg. $12.99 lb

93% Lean Ground Beef
Perfect for burgers or meatloaf.
Sale! $3.99 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

California Avocadoes
Guacamole time! Don’t forget the tortilla chips.
Sale! 99¢ ea
Reg. $1.79 ea

California Organic Seedless Black Grapes
Sweet and juicy! Perfect for snacks and lunches!
Sale! $1.99 lb
Reg. $2.99 lb

Brown & Serve Original Lump Crab Cakes
Pair with a green salad for a quick, elegant dinner!
Sale! $4.49 ea
Reg. $5.99 ea

Locally Grown Organic Zucchini
Drizzle with olive oil and grill. Pairs perfectly with our NY Strip steak!
Sale! 99¢ lb
Reg. $1.99 lb

Guayakî Yerba Mate Organic Ready-To-Drink Teas (16 oz)
Antioxidant powerhouse! Assorted varieties.
Sale! 3 for $5
Reg. $2.39 ea

Robert ’s American Gourmet Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar (10 oz)
Delicious, healthy snacking! Great for lunch boxes.
Sale! $3.99 ea
Reg. $5.99 ea

The Anderson's - This Week's Sale Items

The Andersons has a weekly flier that is available online here.

The Andersons ad runs Sunday thru Saturday each week. They do accept coupons, including internet coupons however they do not double coupons.

Sale Prices good Sunday, August 22nd thru Saturday, August 28th.

Symhomemom's Favorite Deals for the Week are in BOLD.

Produce

Nectarines
$0.88 / lb.

Seedless Watermelon
Sale! $3.99

Cucumbers
3 for $0.99

Sweet Plums
$0.99/ lb.

Zucchini and Summer Squash
$0.77 / lb.

Green Beans
$0.99 / lb.

Radishes
$0.99 / bunch

Pickles
$0.77 / lb.

House of Meats

Boneless Kansas City Steaks5 oz. each
Sale! $0.99 each

5 oz. Bacon Wrapped Marinated Pork Medallions
Sale! $0.99 each

Seafood

Crab Cakes
Lightly breaded, 3 oz.
$0.99 each

Deli

Bakery

Dairy / Frozen

Grocery

Weber Grill Creations Seaasoning
Several flavors.
Sale! 2 for $4

Brianna's Salad Dressings
Several varieties
Sale! $2.69

Empress Chuck Light Tuna in Water
5 oz.
Sale! $0.69 each

Twizzlers Extra LONG Giant Bag
Sale! 2 for $5

Powerade Option 32 oz.
Sale! $0.79 each

Home

Arm & Hammer 2X Detergent
32 loads
Sale! 2 for $5
Reg $4.49
$1/2 Coupon available here

10% OFF ALL Sunscreen
Banana Boat, Coppertone & more
$1/1 Banana Boat Coupon 5/23 & 6/27 SmartSource Insert
$1/1 Coppertone Coupon available here

Sustainable Saturday - Our Eco-Friendly Vacation

This week's Sustainable Saturday is delayed due to our Garage Sale (which was successful despite some minor bumps in the road) and Member Appreciation Night at our Community Swimming Pool.

We are about to embark on a vacation here in the not so distant future. As I've been preparing for this trip, I've been thinking about the ways in which we are automatically implementing eco-friendly ideas in to our planning:

First and foremost, we will be staying in a house that is incredibly energy efficient designed by my husband. This house has implemented: "Simple strategies such as larger overhangs and clerestory windows to increase the potential for natural ventilation. The larger south facing windows and clerestory allow for ample day light. Large overhangs are utilized to keep the water away from the foundation as well as provide shade to the wall to help keep it cooler in the summer yet allow the sun to penetrate during the winter for passive solar gains. The large South facing roof gives plenty of area for a future photovoltaic installation."

The vacation spot of choice this year is only 5 hours and approximately 260 miles from our house.

Since we are staying in a house, we will mostly be cooking and not going out to eat much while on vacation. We will be taking meat from a farm in Ashtabula County and purchasing fruits and vegetables from the plentiful farmer's markets at our destination. At the Farmer's Markets they feature fresh-picked Concord grapes, NY apples, locally-grown vegetables & fruits, flowers, maple products, baked goods, Amish goods, and crafts. Most of the Organic & Natural dry goods and non-perishables have already been purchased and much of which will come from our stockpile.

We purchased disposable plates, napkins and silverware for convenience, however these items are all compostable and biodegradable. We will also be taking with us Seventh Generation laundry detergent, dishwasher cubes and dish liquid for use while there.

Since we will be staying on a lake, that will be our main source of entertainment if you will. We will probably venture to a nearby winery and visit the Children's beach. Our overall consumption in regards to travel will be minimal.

It will be nice to be away from the everyday stresses while enjoying some peaceful and relaxing days on the lake!

Photo Credit: Natural Environmental Education Week

RecycleBank - Earn up to 180 points!

RecycleBank is the premier rewards and loyalty program that motivates people to recycle and to engage in environmentally virtuous activities.

Right now, you can earn up to 165 points here!

AND 15 more points here (code expires 8/31/10)!

You can earn points and redeem them for coupons!

A few examples:

Coupon for FREE Seventh Generation Dish Soap when you purchase Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
$2/2 EarthBound Farm Products
$1/1 Honest Tea
BOGO CVS Green bag tags earning $1 ECB for every two times you use a reusable shopping bag.

More about RecycleBank:

To sign up for a FREE account:

::Go here and click on the "Sign In or Get Started" button at the top of the RecycleBank page.

::Click on the "Register" option and fill out your information.

::Once you've signed up, go back to the homepage here and sign in. Your account should be credited with 100 points for signing up.

::Click on "Get Rewards" and scroll down to the "Grocery and Food" category in the left column and choose which coupons you would like to request via mail.

Thanks! MoneySavingMom, Organic Deals & Coupons and SIMPLE SAVING savvy!

Sprout Soup - Sprout Swap (gently used diapers, covers, slings and nursing gear)

Sprout Soup, a natural family store located in Clintonville (Columbus, OH), is having an event August 20th thru 22nd called Sprout Swap!

According to their website:

Bring in your gently used diapers, covers, slings and nursing gear. If your item sells, you will receive 100% of the selling price in store credit, or you may choose 80% in cash.

Registration is online and August 13th is the last day to drop off items to sell.

The Sale is August 20th thru 22nd and I'm sure there will be plenty of great sustainable, organic, earth-friendly items to BUY! Not to mention that reuse is a big part of being earth-friendly, sustainable or however you'd like to categorize it!

You can read more about Sprout Soup and the Swap here and here!

Sprout Soup is a natural family store located in Clintonville (Columbus, OH). They are committed to providing our customers with products that are sustainable, safe, high quality and out of the ordinary. Their selection of cloth diapers is unmatched in Central Ohio. They also have a large selection of baby carriers, more than half of which are made in the USA.

You can sign up here to receive the Sprout Soup newsletter about upcoming events!

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

You can check out all of Whole Foods Market® Hot Deals here. These prices are valid from August 18th thru August 24th.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Air-Chilled Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
Grill or broil to juicy perfection in minutes!
Sale! $4.99 lb
Reg. $6.49 lb

Made Fresh In-Store Fresh Pork Sausage
In a wide variety of tempting flavors!
Sale! $3.99 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

California Organic Red Grapes
Perfect for snacking or add to any cheese plate!
Sale! $1.99 lb
Reg. $2.99 lb

White Peaches
Sweet and juicy! Perfect for cobbler or try them grilled. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Sale! $1.29 lb
Reg. $1.99 lb

Turbot Fillets
Excellent roasted with tomatoes and olives!
Sale! $9.99 lb
Reg. $12.99 lb

Maranatha Organic Peanut Butter(16 oz)
In Creamy No Stir or Roasted with Salt.
Sale! $3.49–$3.99 ea
Reg. $4.99–$5.99 ea

Crofter’s Superfruit Spreads (11 oz)
Perfect for a decadent PB&J! Selected varieties.
Sale! $3.39 ea
Reg. $4.49 ea

Made by Our Chefs Marinated, Grilled Skirt Steak
Dinner tonight — leave the grilling to us!
Sale! $8.99 lb
Reg. $11.99 lb

Honest Tea Bottles
Assorted Flavors, 16 oz.
Sale! 5 for $5
$0.50/1 Coupon available here

Tasty Bite Entrees
Assorted Flavors, 10 oz.
Sale! 2 for $5

Barbara's Bakery Puffins Cereal
Assorted Flavors 10-11 oz.
Sale! 2 for $6
BOGO Coupon available here via facebook

Annie's Homegrown Bunnies Family Size
Friends or Honey, 10 oz.
Sale! 2 for $6
$1/2 Whole Foods Coupon available here

If you received the Memories Stitched With Love calendar from Annie's it provides Annie's fans with exclusive content and great offers all year long. You can access special contests, giveaways and secret surprises here. There are great money saving coupons included in this calendar including:

$0.75/1 Coupon for Annie's Cookies or Crackers

Odwalla Superfood
450 ml
Sale! 2 for $5

The Real Deal - Buying Organic on a Budget

I thought after posting my 10 Tips to Buying Organic on a Budget, I would show real examples of my family's purchases for the week using the ideas I outlined in 10 Tips to Buying Organic on a Budget . We purchased items at our local Farmer's Market, Kroger, Target and our very 1st purchase from Alice.com which arrived today.

Worthington Farmer's Market - Total $27.50

1 bag lettuce - $3.50

8 bell peppers - $4.00 ($0.50 each)

Green beans - $2.25

Tomatoes - $2.25

Zucchini - $1 ($0.50 each)

Cucumber - $0.50

Eggplant - $0.50

Onions - 3 for $2

Cantelope $1.50

Breakfast Sausage - $2.50

Chicken Breasts - $4.50

Eggs - $3.00 (not pictured)

Kroger - Total $23.68 (Includes a few additional items not pictured)

Organic Broccoli Slaw & Vegetables

Reduced! $0.99 each

Alexia Fries

Unadvertised Sale! $2.50

Organic 2% Milk (1/2 gallon)

Sale! 2 for $5

Laura's Lean Ground Beef

$4.29 / lb.

Purchased 1/3 lb. @ $1.49

Used $1/1 Coupon available here and here

Add Up the Savings Event - Get $4 off your purchase when you buy 8 participating items.

Cascadian Farms Cereal & Granola Bars

Sale! $2.49 each

Used 3 - $0.75/1 Coupon available here

$0.99 each after coupon

Kashi Pizza

Sale! $3.99

$0.75/1 Coupon available here

Kraft Cheese (not pictured)
Sale! $2.89
Used $1/2 Kroger Coupon

Quaker Rice Snacks (not pictured)
Sale! $0.99
Used $1/2 Coupon available here

Target - Total $5

Morningstar Chicken Tenders & Veggie Burgers

Sale! $3 each

Used $1/2 Coupon available 8/1 Red Plum Insert

$1/1 Coupon available here

Alice.com - Total $26.92

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent - $3.48 (Limit 1)

Seventh Generation Dish Liquid - $1.99 (Limit 1)

Ultra Green 9" Round Plate (Compostable, for our vacation) - $3.99

Ultra Green 2-ply napkings (Compostable, for our vacation) - $2.99

Ultra Green Flatware Assortment (Compostable, for our vacation) - $2.49

Sun & Earth Laundry Detergent & Fabric Softener Sheets - $10.28

Shipping is ALWAYS FREE! (Must purchase a minimum of 6 items)

Local Green Events (Aug/ Sept/ Oct) Columbus, Ohio

Symhomemom's List of Favorite Upcoming Events or Classes.

Whole Foods offers a variety of classes that are available on their website for the Columbus store here.

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Sprout Swap
Friday, August 20, 2010 & Saturday, August 21, 2010 - 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Sunday, August 22, 2010 - 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.
Sprout Soup, 4310 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

Sprout Soup, a natural family store located in Clintonville (Columbus, OH), is having an event August 20th thru 22nd called Sprout Swap!

According to their website:

Bring in your gently used diapers, covers, slings and nursing gear. If your item sells, you will receive 100% of the selling price in store credit, or you may choose 80% in cash.

Registration is online and August 13th is the last day to drop off items to sell.

The Sale is August 20th thru 22nd and I'm sure there will be plenty of great sustainable, organic, earth-friendly items to BUY! Not to mention that reuse is a big part of being earth-friendly, sustainable or however you'd like to categorize it!
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Home Canning Clinic

Saturday, August 21, 2010 @ 1 p.m.

The Andersons, Sawmill Store

Home Canning Clinic with Dr. Susan Shockey of the Ohio State Extension Service. Learn how to safely preserve your lovingly grown summer fruits and vegetables and save money!
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Introduction to Raw Foods Class

Saturday, August 21st, 2010 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

$50, Registration Required

With Jenny Mrkobrad, owner of Purely Simple Raw

Would you like to look more radiant and beautiful, lose weight, feel younger and experience a level of health that you didn’t know could exist? Do you want to learn how to eat and prepare delicious meals with unprocessed, natural foods the way they were intended to be eaten? Have you heard about the health and environmental benefits of eating raw foods, and want to learn more? Then this class is for you! This course is the beginner’s class that will teach you about the basics of the raw vegan diet including the science & nutrition behind eating raw, as well as hands on food demonstrations and “uncooking” knowledge. You will learn about introducing raw foods into your diet in a way that compliments your lifestyle. Come hungry, there will be several tastings!

Connect with Purely Simple Raw on Facebook and post a note or photo on the page for a $10 off discount! http://www.facebook.com/purelysimpleraw ** For every friend you refer that books a spot in the class, receive a $10 discount...invite 5 friends and you'll come for free!

How to Register: Register for this class by visiting: http://www.purelysimpleraw.com/purchase-classes.html.

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Klothes for Kids

Campaign runs thru Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Donations may be dropped off at the following Kroger Stores:

1585 Georgesville Square Drive, Columbus
300 S. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna
5800 W. Broad St., Galloway
5965 Hoover Rd., Grove City
659 W. Coshocton St., Johnstown
5161 Hampsted Village Way, New Albany
5991 Sunbury Road, Westerville
7345 State Route 3, Westerville

Customers are encouraged to donate new or gently used coats and sweaters, which will be cleaned for free (by Dress for Success Cleaners, the event's sponsor). Clothing items collected during the drive will be donated to the YWCA of Columbus.
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Room-by-Room: Green Building & Your Health

September 2, 2010 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Greenovate, 9 East Second Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201

Free

Led by panels of local experts, “Room-by-Room” will focus on the numerous health benefits associated with green building. Specifically, it will cover topics such as indoor air quality, lead poisoning prevention, asthma and allergy control, and non-toxic household cleaning. In so doing, the workshops will identify solutions to common health hazards found in particular household areas. Registration, limited to 30 participants per workshop, is free of charge and open to the public. Register Now

September 2, 2010

“Garage & Transportation"

Learn how to create a more healthful garage with proper ventilation and safe disposal of household hazardous waste. This workshop will also identify health hazards associated with automobile exhaust and benefits associated with alternative modes of transportation, such as biking.

Timothy Buckley, Ph.D.

College of Public Health, The Ohio State University

John Remy

Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO)
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Conscientious Lawn Care

Thursday, September 9 @ 7:30 p.m.
Old Worthington Library Meeting Room
FREE

A turf specialist from the OSU Extension Office will show how you can care for your lawn while still caring for the environment.
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Mexican Style Raw Foods Class

Thursday, September 23rd @ 6:30 p.m.

Whole Foods, Columbus

$35, Registration Required

With Jenny Mrkobrad, owner of Purely Simple Raw

Everyone loves Mexican foods, but not the guilt! This class will introduce you to several raw foods and preparation techniques that let you enjoy Mexican foods! We will discover these dishes through hands on demonstrations and preparation. All recipes will be sampled and given to you! Meals will include: Rice & Beans, Salsa, Guacamole, Tacos, Burritos, Taco Meat. Come hungry!

Register for this class by visiting: http://www.purelysimpleraw.com/purchase-classes.html

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Green Energy Ohio and the American Solar Energy Society will host the annual Ohio Solar Tour
October 2nd and 3rd, 2010

The tour is the largest demonstration of installed renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency building practices in the U.S. Last year's tour at 168 Open House sites (including 4 guided tours) in 91 communities across the state was attended by 5,618 Ohioans - a 30% increase over last year.
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Energy Efficiency Workshop

Thursday, October 7 @ 7 p.m.
Old Worthington Library Meeting Room
FREE

This hands on workshop, featuring a representative from the Office of the Ohio Consumer's Coucil, will show you a low cost and no cost ways to make your home more energy efficient.

The Anderson's - This Week's Sale Items

The Andersons has a weekly flier that is available online here.

The Andersons ad runs Sunday thru Saturday each week. They do accept coupons, including internet coupons however they do not double coupons.

Sale Prices good Sunday, August 15th thru Saturday, August 21st.

Symhomemom's Favorite Deals for the Week are in BOLD.

Produce

Tomatoes
$0.99 / lb.

Sugar Baby Seedless Watermelon
Sale! 2 for $4

Green Cabbage
$0.29 / lb.

Green Onion Bunches
3 for $0.99

Sweet Jumbo Green Peppers
2 for $0.98

Crisp Celery
$0.99 / bunch

Romaine & Leaf Lettuce
$0.99 / lb.

House of Meats

Prime Rib Steaks
Bone in
Sale! $4.99 / lb.

Boneless Center Cut Pork Chops
4 oz. each
Sale! $0.79 each

Seafood

Deli

Bakery

Homemade Iced Cupcakes
6 count
2 for $4

Large Butter Rum or Double Dutch Chocolate Muffins
4-pack
Sale! 2 for $4

Dairy / Frozen

Grocery

Dei Fratelli Tomatoes
28 oz. Assorted
Sale! $0.99

Kraft Handi-Snacks
4 pack
Sale! $0.99

Heartland All-Natural Granola Cereals
16 oz.
Sale! 2 for $5

Terra Vegetable Chips
6.5 oz.
Sale! $3.19 to $4.29
$1/1 Coupon 6/20 SmartSource Insert

Mary's Gone Crackers Wheat & Gluten-Free Sticks & Twigs
8 oz.
Sale! $3.99

Gatorade 12-pack
20 oz. bottles, assorted flavors
Sale! $5.99

Domino Pure Cane Sugar
5 lb.
Sale! $2.99
Limit 3

Clif kid Organic Twisted Fruit
Sale! 4 for $3

Crunchmaster Oven Baked Crackers
Sale! 2 for $5
$1/1 Coupon available here

Home

Eukanuba Dog Food
Natural Lamb & Rice Formula
Sale! $9.99
Reg. to $18.79

Sustainable Saturday - 5 Tips for Back-to-School (The Eco-Friendly Version)

Every year beginning in what seems like early July, Retail Stores begin advertising Back-to-School sales. The prices are usually low for certain items at certain stores and can be very enticing. As the last few weeks of August are approaching, the reality of Back-to-School is here.

In the event you have not yet started or even completed, here are some Tips on making the most of your Back-to-School adventure.

5 Tips for Back-to-School (The Eco-Friendly Version)

1. Take an inventory of the items from the previous school year. Sort items into reuse (backpacks, lunch sacks, crayons, etc.) or recycle (items like papers, plastic containers, cardboard based items, etc.)

If you are wondering what to do with some of these items that can be reused or recycled, check out Recyclebank: Supply Chain 101: Reusing and Repurposing a Year of School Supplies.

Amazon.com has many Melissa & Doug Art Supplies on Sale! up to 70% off.

2. Take a closer look at the ingredients, packaging and scents that any new school supplies may contain. For example common crayons often contain paraffin wax, which is made from crude oil. Look for alternatives like soy and beeswax. Be wary of plastic-encased crayons or scented markers -- scents encourage kids to sniff them, and the chemicals used in the fragrances are not listed on the label.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a list of great tips available here. You can download their pdf EWG’s Green Back-to-School Guide for K-12 here. Many of these items are available in select stores (Whole Foods) and Amazon.com - Eco-Friendly School Supplies.

3. Consider purchasing products that will last several years. An example would be backpacks. Purchase backpacks that are not so specific (Disney Princesses or Toy Story) so that your kids will want to reuse the backpack for several years. Consider purchasing decals or patches to decorate the backpack, that can be easily removed and passed on to another child when you are done with them.

There are items such as Natural Fiber Backpacks are available on Amazon.com.

4. Consider purchasing reusable lunch containers that not only have a lunch box, but also have the containers and wraps for the food itself. Companies like Kids Konserve offer reusable waste free lunch boxes at a variety of prices. I really like their Waste Free Lunch Cost Comparison available here.

Kids Konserve is offering a 15% Back to School coupon code for all. Enter coupon code: "school" valid through August 2010.

Annie's and Kids Konserve have teamed up to fight lunch waste! You can get a FREE Kids Konserve lunch sack when you buy any 2 Annie's Homegrown products. You can learn more here and here.

5. Take inventory of clothing and only purchase what is necessary for Back-to-School clothing. Sites like thredUP offer the ability to swap kids clothes with people virtually anywhere. Throughout the month of August, every time you swap on thredUP, they'll donate $1 to Cradles for Crayons - an organization providing underprivileged kids school essentials like clothing & supplies. You can read more about the organization Cradles for Crayons here.

As with anything that you may purchase for Back-to-School this year, keep in mind the number of trips you are making to multiple retail stores. When purchasing online keep in mind where the products are made and shipped from to reduce your overall consumption.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

You can check out all of Whole Foods Market® Hot Deals here. These prices are valid from August 11th thru August 17th.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Beef London Broil
Easy entreé — Just marinate, grill and slice!
Sale! $5.49 lb
Reg. $6.99 lb

Boneless Center Cut Pork Loin Chops
Plump and full of flavor! Grill or sauté.
Sale! $5.99 lb
Reg. $7.99 lb

Locally Grown! Yellow Nectarines
From Virginia, Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Sale! 99¢ lb
Reg. $1.99 lb

Lady Moon Farms in Chambersburg, PA Organic Grape Tomatoes
Great with fresh mozzarella! One pint containers.
Sale! 2 for $4
Reg. $3.49 per pint

Annie’s Homegrown Bunny Grahams (6x1 oz pack)
Perfect for back-to-school lunches!
Selected varieties.
Sale! 2 for $7
Reg. $3.99 each
$1/2 Whole Foods Coupon available here

If you received the Memories Stitched With Love calendar from Annie's it provides Annie's fans with exclusive content and great offers all year long. You can access special contests, giveaways and secret surprises here. There are great money saving coupons included in this calendar including:

$0.75/1 Coupon for Annie's Cookies or Crackers

Clean Well Hand Sanitizer Spray (4–6 oz)
Safe for kids — great for school!
Sale! $3.99–$4.79
Reg. $6.69–$7.99 ea

Organic Valley Farms Aseptic Milk Packs (4 x 8 oz)
Stock up for back-to-school! Selected varieties.
Sale! 2 for $8
Reg. $5.39 each

Wild-Caught Raw, Shell-On Shrimp
Great marinated and grilled! Previously frozen, 16 – 20 per pound.
Sale! $13.99 lb
Reg. $17.99 lb

Whole Foods Market Exclusive! Atlantique
Enjoy this cheese for its sweet and nutty flavor.
Sale! $4.99 lb
Reg. $9.99lb

Made by Our Chefs Marinated, Grilled Skirt Steak
Dinner tonight — leave the grilling to us!
Sale! $8.99 lb
Reg. $11.99 lb

Honest Tea Bottles
Assorted Flavors, 16 oz.
Sale! 5 for $5
$0.50/1 Coupon available here

Tasty Bite Entrees
Assorted Flavors, 10 oz.
Sale! 2 for $5

Barbara's Bakery Puffins Cereal
Assorted Flavors 10-11 oz.
Sale! 2 for $6
BOGO Coupon available here via facebook

Annie's Homegrown Bunnies Family Size
Friends or Honey, 10 oz.
Sale! 2 for $6
$1/2 Whole Foods Coupon available here

If you received the Memories Stitched With Love calendar from Annie's it provides Annie's fans with exclusive content and great offers all year long. You can access special contests, giveaways and secret surprises here. There are great money saving coupons included in this calendar including:

$0.75/1 Coupon for Annie's Cookies or Crackers

Odwalla Superfood
450 ml
Sale! 2 for $5

More on Eating Organic on a Budget . . .

Stephanie from Saving Naturally was interviewed about how her family Eats Organic on a Budget.

In the interview I found her explanation of buying meat really great. She goes into much more detail about how many local farmers' practice organic farming just don't have the certified-organic labeling due to cost and buying meat in bulk. This expands upon my Number 7. Local Farmers from my post Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips to Buying Organic on a Budget.

Organic meat has a higher markup than organic produce. How do you get organic meat at affordable prices? I don’t buy certified organic meat. There are so many farms where families are raising the animals in an organic method but they don’t get the organic certification because it is too expensive.

You can read the entire interview: Eating Organic on a Budget

Thanks! Bargain Babe

Sprout Soup - Sprout Swap (gently used diapers, covers, slings and nursing gear)

Melissa & Doug - 70% off or more on Amazon.com

Amazon.com has Melissa & Doug Art Supplies on Sale! 70% off or more!

Amazon.com - Melissa & Doug - Other Sale! Items!

Thanks! The Thrifty Mama

LOZO: Cut the shower flow to save $265/year

Cut the shower flow to save $265/year

Low flow shower heads can cost as little as $10 but can save up to $265 per year. They can reduce flow to as little as 1.5 gallons per minute, which is much more water efficient than the old ones that use up to 5.5 gallons per minute, all without sacrificing water pressure!

Since the shower represents 15-25% of all water usage in a typical house, and about 3/4 of it is hot water, this is a great place to try to save on heating and water costs. Plus, they're easy to install with an adjustable wrench (or even by hand in some cases).

Click here to read more about how they work and where to find advice on choosing one.

Check out the Series: Kill'n a Hog: An Energy Hog

Whole Foods Market® - Honest Kids Organic Juice Boxes for $1!

Whole Foods Market® ONE DAY DEAL - Friday, August 13th

Honest Kids Organic Juice Boxes on Sale! 2 for $4!
$1/1 Coupon available here

$1 for Honest Kids Organic Juice Boxes!!

Seventh Generation Dish Liquid for $1.99

Check out Alice.com for great deals on Seventh Generation Dish Liquid and Laundry Detergent

Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid, Free & Clear
25 oz, $0.08/oz
$1.99 (w/ $1 off coupon, automatically applied)

Seventh Generation 2x Ultra Concentrae, Free & Clear
32oz, $0.11/oz
$3.48 (w/ $2 off coupon, automatically applied)

Alice.com is here to help.

It's an online store where you can find household products like toilet paper, toothpaste, shampoo and some dry food goods. At our house we certainly believe in buying local. Now while shipping goods may not be the most "Green", there are products that may not be available in your part of the country. Alice.com is located in Middleton, Wisconsin.

Go here to sign up for an account with Alice.com.

A few things you'll want to note:

::Alice.com offers free shipping all the time. There is a 6-item minimum order requirement. However, you only have to order one item if it's first time to order.

There are clip-free coupons available. These are often the same as are found in the newspaper inserts and come off automatically when you order.

Organic & Natural Coupon Links - NEW!

You will now find links to many favorite Organic & Natural Coupon products on my site here. You can access this link anytime in the menu bar at the top of the page.

The Coupons are organized into categories:

Manufacturer Organic & Natural Food Coupons
Manufacturer Organic & Natural Personal Care / Household Coupons
Printable Organic & Natural Coupons
Store Organic & Natural Coupons
Coupon sites that may periodically have Organic & Natural Product Coupons
Organic & Natural Rewards Programs

Earth's Best Organic Nutritional Mommy Bars - NEW!

Now Moms Can Enjoy Earth’s Best, Too!

Earth’s Best recognizes the importance of optimal nutrition for not only children, but now mothers, too! Earth’s Best is proud to introduce our new Organic Nutritional Mommy Bars — deliciously soft and chewy snack bars made from whole grain oats and chocolate. Our wholesome bars are loaded with the key nutrients and essential vitamins required for mom's health and babies' development, both during and after pregnancy.

EcoWatch Journal - August / September 2010

You can view online the latest EcoWatch Journal here or pick one up at the Old Worthington Library (Columbus, OH). EcoWatch is local to Cleveland, OH but contains information relevant to Ohio in general. In this issue you can read about:

Northeast Ohio Green Map - Think Global, Map Local

Asset mapping sustainability in Northeast Ohio will help organizations and individuals of all kinds (including non-profit, for-profit, governmental, academic and public) to find one another, connect and collaborate around regional sustainability.

Save Lives, Save Animals by Saving Antibiotics

Pastured Poultry an Alternative to Meet from CAFO's

Investing in Green Could Put More Green in Your Pocket

The Story of Cosmetics

The Story of Bottled Water

Local Green Events - Columbus, Ohio

Symhomemom's List of Favorite Upcoming Events or Classes.

Whole Foods offers a variety of classes that are available on their website for the Columbus store here.

Home Canning Clinic

Saturday, August 21, 2010 @ 1 p.m.

The Andersons, Sawmill Store

Home Canning Clinic with Dr. Susan Shockey of the Ohio State Extension Service. Learn how to safely preserve your lovingly grown summer fruits and vegetables and save money!

Introduction to Raw Foods Class

Saturday, August 21st, 2010 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

$50, Registration Required

With Jenny Mrkobrad, owner of Purely Simple Raw

How to Register: Register for this class by visiting: http://www.purelysimpleraw.com/purchase-classes.html.

Klothes for Kids

Campaign runs thru Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Donations may be dropped off at the following Kroger Stores:

1585 Georgesville Square Drive, Columbus
300 S. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna
5800 W. Broad St., Galloway
5965 Hoover Rd., Grove City
659 W. Coshocton St., Johnstown
5161 Hampsted Village Way, New Albany
5991 Sunbury Road, Westerville
7345 State Route 3, Westerville

Room-by-Room: Green Building & Your Health

September 2, 2010 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Greenovate, 9 East Second Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201

Free

September 2, 2010

“Garage & Transportation"

Learn how to create a more healthful garage with proper ventilation and safe disposal of household hazardous waste. This workshop will also identify health hazards associated with automobile exhaust and benefits associated with alternative modes of transportation, such as biking.

Timothy Buckley, Ph.D.

College of Public Health, The Ohio State University

John Remy

Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO)

Conscientious Lawn Care
Thursday, September 9 @ 7:30 p.m.
Old Worthington Library Meeting Room
FREE

A turf specialist from the OSU Extension Office will show how you can care for your lawn while still caring for the environment.

Mexican Style Raw Foods Class

Thursday, September 23rd @ 6:30 p.m.

Whole Foods, Columbus

$35, Registration Required

With Jenny Mrkobrad, owner of Purely Simple Raw

Register for this class by visiting: http://www.purelysimpleraw.com/purchase-classes.html

Green Energy Ohio and the American Solar Energy Society will host the annual Ohio Solar Tour
October 2nd and 3rd, 2010

The tour is the largest demonstration of installed renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency building practices in the U.S. Last year's tour at 168 Open House sites (including 4 guided tours) in 91 communities across the state was attended by 5,618 Ohioans - a 30% increase over last year.

Energy Efficiency Workshop
Thursday, October 7 @ 7 p.m.
Old Worthington Library Meeting Room
FREE

This hands on workshop, featuring a representative from the Office of the Ohio Consumer's Coucil, will show you a low cost and no cost ways to make your home more energy efficient.