Creative Builder Set [review]

As my son is growing into a little young man, I work hard to find toys that will promote creativity with an educational aspect. I prefer toys that do not require batteries and do not make noise. Among the noises that come from watching TV, videos on the iPad, or some of the battery-operated toys that we do have, I find it beneficial to have quiet toys. The quiet toys are the ones that keep my 2.5 year old's engagement. Develop creativity, imagination, and problem solving skills with the 85 piece creative builder set.

Koolsupply Creative Builder Set      

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

Disclosure: I received the product to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own and are honest. Reference: f2d2f8f6b7d1

The Good	The Not So Good
Sturdy pieces	Made from plastic
Can build just about anything
Gender neutral
Adults can join in!

Koolsupply Creative Builder Set comes with 85 pieces that are used to create just about anything that you would want to create. The pieces include 4 wheels, a wrench, and plastic pieces and screws to build with. The pieces are made from sturdy plastic and are housed in a plastic storage bin with a lid and a handle. I really like that everything is contained. The builder set is ready to go if we need to take it with us to occupy our toddler in the car or at someone's house.

The builder set is safe for children 3+ because of smaller parts. However, I can see a child as young as 2-2.5 years old enjoying the set with adult supervision. The great part is that older children, teenagers, young adults and older adults can also play with this set. Everyone can join in!

Usage: Open the box, look at the instruction sheet for suggestions, and start building!

Results: My 2.5 year old son really enjoyed playing with the builder set. He is able to play with Legos fairly well, so I knew this set was a good next step. The first few times, I sat down with him and showed him briefly how stuff goes together. I try to minimize instruction with him and allow him to figure stuff out on his own. He was able to get a good hang out putting pieces together, though he's not old enough yet to be able to build something like a dinosaur without help from an adult. I also enjoyed building with him, so that is a big plus in my book! The plastic storage bin with the snap-on lid is a great feature to take the set outside the home.

We have not had to clean the set yet, but I can see it being really easy to do so. My strategy for cleaning plastic toys with smaller parts is to fill the sink with soapy, swirl the toys around in it, rinse, and dry. Then, let air dry.

The Koolsupply Creative Builder Set is a toy that my child will continue to come back to. He can make something new every time and it will keep his imagination going as he gets older. I would highly recommend this toy for any child on your holiday gift list.

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100% Stainless Steel Double Wall French Press [Review]

In a world of almost everything that seems to be made with plastic, I look for kitchen items and accessories that are made from glass, stainless steel, etc. I understand that with some items, plastic is unavoidable. I try to reduce the amount of plastic in our home by looking for non-plastic alternatives. The body of my current French Press is made from glass with a glass handle, and the top is made from stainless steel and plastic. The part where the hot coffee pours out of is made from plastic. I have been looking for a plastic-free French Press coffee maker for quite some time. Finally, I have come across Francois et Mimi Vintage Double Wall French Press made from 100% Stainless Steel to keep coffee hot longer.

Francois et Mimi Stainless Steel French Press       

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
100% Stainless Steel (no plastic!)
Double walled to keep coffee hot longer
Generous size
Dishwasher safe

Francois et Mimi is an affordable 100% stainless steel French Press. There are a few options for non-plastic French Presses, but they are more expensive. I really like that the French Press is made from stainless steel because if I knock it over, it will not break like my glass one will. Being made of stainless steel, all parts are dishwasher safe. This is important for me as I do not put anything plastic in the dishwasher, even if it dishwasher safe. Just because it is dishwasher safe does not necessarily mean that you want the plastic to get exposed to high water temperatures, which can cause the plastic to break down and leach chemicals. I feel safe and comfortable putting stainless steel in the dishwasher. The filter part screws apart so that each part can be individually cleaned.

The French Press holds 34 ounces of liquid. My husband and I have been using this French Press on the weekends when we are both at home and need more coffee. I also use this if I am having people over for a play date. I love the generous size and the double wall design that keeps the coffee hot for a longer period of time. While an electric coffee maker has a warming plate, the coffee can get a burned taste after a while.

One of the things my husband noted is that the top part that you press down is pointed. While most French Presses have a flat top that you would push down with your palm, Francois et Mimi French Press has a pointy top. I use my thumb and index finger to grab and push and the plunger goes down fairly easy. The handle on the side is very sturdy and easy to grab for pouring.

The 100% stainless steel, paired with a vintage design and functional features, Francois et Mimi French Press is a great addition to your kitchen. I would highly recommend this eco-friendly French Press. At the affordable price, this French Press would also make a great wedding or hostess gift.

Disclosure: I received the product to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

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reCAP Mason Jar Pour Cap [Review]

I have acquired a number of glass Mason jars over the past few years from my canning endeavors. From the small 4 oz canning jars to the big 1/2 gallon canning jars, I love the versatility for more than just canning. The 4 oz canning jars are perfect for storing leftovers for my toddler. The quart and half gallon canning jars are great for storing grains and dried beans. However, Mason canning jars can be used for so much more! From on-the-go drinks to organizing pantry items, reCAP Mason jar pour caps transform ordinary glass jars to containers that shake, pour and store.

Mason Jar Pour Cap              (wide mouth, silver color)

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Transform Mason jars into storage containers	Cap is made from plastic
Regular and wide mouth sizes

I have seen Mason jars being used for purposes other than canning a lot lately, but never took the plunge to try it myself until recently. I have been using used lids and rings if I was storing something in the fridge or the pantry. The used lids cannot be reused for canning. Instead of throwing them out, I decided to use them if I were storing something in the canning jar. However, unscrewing the ring and lining up the lids and rings when putting back on was becoming a bit cumbersome each time. Let's just say, I prefer easy and efficient methods. The reCAP Mason jar pour cap is the answer!

ReCAP Mason Jar Pour Cap is made from plastic and is 100% BPA free. The caps are also made in the USA.

The jar pour cap can be used for many different uses like pouring liquids and solids. That means you can use a Mason jar like a portable cup with a lid. Though I would be careful if pouring hot liquid as the glass would get very hot. Likewise with cold liquids. I could see myself using the pour cap for thinner soups if I wanted to take food on the go.

I really like that the caps can be used for just about anything. The opening is wide enough to allow most items through. The reCAP pour cap has a rubber gasket inside that provides for a good seal against the glass Mason jar. I feel comfortable that nothing would be spilled. The top opening is firm enough that it will come open accidentally, but easy enough to open. The opening is about the size of a quarter.

 

I am in love with reCAP Mason Jar Pour Caps. I would like get a few more lids for smaller containers that I can take on the go. ReCAP Mason jar pour caps are a great way to reuse Mason jars in many different ways.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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Replacing Plastic with Glass and Stainless Steel [#CTWW]

Now that my baby is a toddler, he is on the move. As he is able to play more on his own, I can get a few chores done around the house. I have realized that I spend a lot of time doing chores and activities in the kitchen. From doing dishes to prepping food, the kitchen has become my most important room. I want to create an environment where family time means cooking and eating together. This week's challenge fits perfectly with creating a safe and loving environment in the kitchen.

This week's challenge:

This week, go into your kitchen and look for at least one way to make it greener. You might choose to do something simple like add an aerator to the faucet, convert to cloth towels instead of paper, replace a light bulb with a CFL or LED, or unplug an appliance (especially those with clocks). Maybe you are in the market for new cookware, dishes, etc. and could look for green options. Does your kitchen need paint? Perhaps you grab a brush and use non-VOC colors. You might even be considering a kitchen remodel and could search out the most appropriate Eco-friendly cabinets, counter tops, flooring, etc. The idea, this week, is to look around your kitchen and make a green improvement.

A lot of eco-friendly improvements have been made in the kitchen over the past few years. Let's recount:

1. Natural dish soap (Tropical Traditions Dish Liquid)
2. Natural dishwasher tablets
3. Glass food storage containers
4. Organic cotton towels
5. Stainless steel and 100% silicone utensils
6. Stainless steel and cast iron enameled cookware
7. Unplugging most appliances when not in use (aside from oven and microwave)

As with any effort to improve our lives, becoming eco-friendly and green in the kitchen is a continuous effort for us. Yet, this effort also presents challenges and needs for compromise. After a couple of years of trying to transition away from paper towels, I have come to accept that it is just not going to happen. The paper towel roll still hides in the cabinet above the stove. I still put out small towels for wiping up spills. And I purchase recycled paper towels. Since converting to cloth towels is not in our future, I am currently focusing on food storage containers.

I have acquired a good collection of glass storage containers for storing leftovers and reheating. The beauty of glass storage containers is that they can be used to reheat food in the microwave, oven, or toaster oven. No need to dirty another dish. Since glass tends to get heavy, I have started purchasing stainless steel containers. Though these cannot be used in the microwave, they provide a lighter eco-friendly option for storing and transporting food. Next on my list is to purchase 3+ cup containers for storing food. This will eliminate the need for plastic storage containers that I currently use.

The plastic storage container cabinet is still overflowing. This cabinet has become one of my toddler's favorite play areas. He loves taking out the containers and lids, stacking them, banging on them, etc. Some of the containers and lids have cracked. These will be repurposed for other storage uses (nails, small toys, etc.), donated (if in good shape), or recycled. I try to repurpose and upcycle items before recycling. However, you can only have so many plastic containers.

>> What is one eco-friendly improvement that you can make to your kitchen??
  

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Ozeri Instavac Green Earth Food Storage Container Set [Review]

Although I have slowly been transitioning from plastic storage containers to glass storage containers with the goal of 100% glass storage containers, I have realized that there is a time and a place for plastic storage containers. A good set of 1-4 cup glass storage containers is essential. They work well for reheating leftovers in the microwave and in a toaster oven or full oven. However, as the size of the glass container grows, they become heavy, especially when filled. When we travel for the holidays, I need to transport baked goods or prepared foods to contribute to family meals. For example, 16 scones need to fit into one container. I tend to be clumsy at times and carrying large glass containers full of food always makes me nervous. Ozeri Instavac Food Storage Containers are efficient and functional, saving food, time and money.

Ozeri INSTAVAC Green Earth Food Storage Container Set    
    ($24.95)
Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Large storage, nesting containers	Made from plastic
Instant vacuum seal
Stain resistant plastic

I look for three things with storage containers:

1. Eco-friendly, green, and non-toxic materials
2. Efficient storage
3. Functionality (size, fit of lid, etc)

Ozeri Instavac Food Storage Container Set contains 4 plastic food storage containers (BPA-free). Each container is microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. Although, I would personally not microwave or put plastic in the dishwasher because the heat will cause the plastic to break down and degrade over time. The plastic is see through. The largest container can hold 21 cups and would be perfect for storing a whole batch of scones or muffins. 

The main feature that makes Ozeri Instavac Food Storage Containers unique is the patented valve system that allows you to quickly remove excess air to prevent growth of bacteria. This mean that foods will stay fresh longer. Remove excess air by pressing down on the lid, forcing the air out of the container through a one-way valve. Minimal effort for longer lasting food? Yes, please. I try to be diligent about taking inventory of the fridge, but sometimes, I miss containers that have made their way to the back. I can be confident that the food in containers that get "lost" in the fridge will last just a little bit longer when using Ozeri Instavac Food Storage Containers. Plus, the bottom of each container has a wave pattern that elevates food off the bottom to keep food from deteriorating from sitting in water or its own juices.

The feature that initially caught my eye about the Ozeri Instavac Food Storage Container Set is that the four storage containers nest within each other. I only have to create a little bit of space for the biggest size container. My cabinet space is already limited so I am constantly looking to consolidate my storage containers.

If you are sick of digging through your storage containers to find the best airtight container to keep food fresher longer and provide the most functionality, look to Ozeri Instavac Food Storage Container Set. This most effective vacuum-sealed container set will save food, save time, and save money. 

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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Eco-Friendly Excitement: Compostable Plastic Cup?

During our last road trip, we discovered a fun little lunch place. The place serves some organic and some locally sourced foods and everything is compostable, including the food (without the oils), bowls, utensils, and plastic cups. I have not done much research on compostable plastic. I do know that something is added to the plastic to make it biodegradable. I saved the plastic cup to add to my compost bin and see just how it takes to decompose. I will keep you up to date!

>> Have you every tried to compost plastic? Were you successful or not?

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Yes, I Took That Out of the Trash!

Last year, my office instituted a pretty good recycling program. We have the shredder bin (shredded paper is recycled), the recycle bin for office paper, and the bin for other recyclables. These are usually placed in the kitchen areas so the employees have quick and easy access. We also have smaller cardboard boxes in each office to recycle office paper. I am completely devoted to using the bins and boxes. I will admit that I get a little excited when I have something I can recycle. I still do takes a few items home, like compost, but I hardly ever use the trashcan anymore.

Today's confession: Yes, I took that out of the trash...and recycled it!

I was heating up tea and just happened to look in the trashcan right beside me. There was a plastic bottle staring at me. I looked around to make sure no one was around, quickly grabbed it and placed it in the recycle bin. Ahh, the feeling of satisfaction!
 

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Snacks in Fun, Colorful Snack Bags with Wexy Bags

I buy most of my snacks (dried fruit, nuts, trail mix, etc.) in bulk. I also like to make homemade snacks. Of course, plastic packaging and plastic baggies can be costly and can sit in landfills for up to 1000 years before they decompose. What's an eco-friendly girl to do? If reusable cloth baggies are not an option, then consider Wexy Lunch & Much Bags, the kid-friendly, eco-friendly snack bags that are BPA-free and biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable.

Wexy Snack Bags Single Box (28 count)          $3.99

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Biodegradable	Disposable
Kid-friendly	Made of plastic
Reusable

When I received the box of Wexy Snack Bags, I checked out the box first. The colors on the box are eye-catching and engaging. If you are trying to get your child to eat healthy or homemade snacks, Wexy Snack Bags will get them excited in no time. The four fun monsters are a great way for kids to connect with eco-friendly and green living since each of the monsters standards for something green.

I really like that Wexy Snack Bags are biodegradable and the packaging is recyclable. Biodegradable is defined as the capability of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms. The plastic seems to be similar to biodegradable/compostable plastic mailing packages, so I assume that I can throw the used bags in the compost pile. Although the bags are reusable, the plastic is a little on the thin side, so I do not see myself reusing the bags more than a few times. The size of the snack bags would fit almost any time of snack that you put in the lunch bag or for a trip. The monster print on each bag fits almost the entire surface area. 

Even though Wexy Snack Bags are made of plastic and might be disposed of in the trash after one use, the fact that they are biodegradable is a big win. If you compost, then throw it in there to reduce your trash. Any kid would get excited about snacks (whether they are from the bulk bin or homemade) when they come inside of Wexy Snack Bags.

Disclosure: I received the sample from the company in order to facilitate my review. No other compensation was received. I am under no pressure to return the product to the company or to write this review. This product review is based on my personal experiences. This review is objective and completely honest.

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