Smaller than your average note, these Coldgull Note Cards are comprised entirely of offcuts of other cards, and are 100% recycled.

Use them as thoughtful notes in school lunchboxes, as non-traditional flashcards, thank-you notes, or, as the seller suggests, "They are perfect…just to say 'Good morning honey, can you please take out the rubbish with you when you go to work.'"

She also has these adorable handmade gift cards in a larger size, featuring re-purposed fabric and hand drawn details:

The cards themselves are 75 and 100% recycled, made primarily of post-consumer recycled content. The corresponding envelopes are also 100% recycled.

Recycled form meets recycled function!

Once I walked away from the rat race my creativity soared and I started to invest more time researching how to be more environmentally conscious. I took the next step. And then another, and another, until I was making as many improvements in our daily lives as I was to our home. It's contagious, you know, cleaning up.

Each step makes me feel lighter and more free than I have ever been, while also bringing a weird sort of clarity. With my vision sharp and focused I made the decision to detox my lifestyle, which meant giving up dairy and reducing caffeine and sugar in my diet. Next, I began to ease off prescription medication (all with the green light of both my doctors and my healers). The improvement in my life is amazing. I breathe easier, sleep better, and wake refreshed for the first time in years.

As the holidays approach, I extend my gratitude for my family's health, prosperity, and opportunity. Ever since embarking on this green adventure, every facet of our lives has become more meaningful. I hope since beginning your own green journey, that yours has, too.

An Original 5 Minutes for Going Green post. Jen shares her journey going green and raising a family at The Eco Chic Organizer.

With the turn of the seasons and the cold weather, you might be looking to buy your children new pajamas. Or, if you are like me, new pajamas are given the night we decorate the tree.

But if you are concerned about being green and your child’s exposure to toxic chemicals, you might be wondering whether those new pajamas have been treated with flame retardants? And does it matter?

Whether or not it matters is a decision you’ll have to make yourself.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) considers chemically treated pajamas safe. In the 1970s, it banned brominated Tris and removed chlorinated Tris from being used on children’s pajamas after they were found to mutate DNA and identified as probable human carcinogens. These chemicals were removed from children's sleepwear after it was found that children were exposed from treated sleepwear. So, these two particular chemicals won’t be used, but what is actually used on pajamas is difficult to discover: just try asking a retailer what particular flame retardant is used on any particular item of sleepwear.

Chemicals used on pajamas or pajama fabrics include chlorinated and brominated flame retardants, inorganic flame retardants such as antimony oxides, and phosphate-based compounds. Chlorinated and brominated flame retardants are contaminating the environment and accumulating in the human body. For example, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been linked to doing damage to the nervous and reproductive systems and impairing thyroid function. North Americans have the highest body burden of PBDEs in the world.

Can you avoid flame retardants in pajamas? Well, it depends on what you buy.

In the United States, children’s sleepwear sized 9 months to 14 years must meet certain flammability requirements. The requirement is intended to protect children from burns. I'm often asked how that exactly works, since if your bed is on fire you’ve seemingly got a lot more to worry about than your pajamas. The concern stems less from the idea of being caught in a housefire and more from sleepwear catching fire, for example, because of a stray sleeve catching a candle or match, or due to children playing with fire. That’s why sleepwear sized under 9 months is exempt: because babies aren’t expected to be roaming around unsupervised too often.

To meet the regulatory flammability requirements, children’s sleepwear must either pass certain flammability tests, or be tight fitting and meet certain specifications as to dimensions. This means that your child's pajamas either have flame retardants added or are snug-fitting and probably free of flame retardants.

How can you tell the difference?

First, check the fabric content. Look at the label and see what it lists as the primary fabric used. If the item is sleepwear and it is made of a synthetic fiber, it has flame retardants. All synthetic materials have flame retardants added. The issue for synthetic fabrics is whether the sleepwear is “chemically treated” or not. Only some sleepwear is “chemically treated” with flame retardants. Chemically treated fabrics have a chemical flame retardant added to the sleepwear. These sleepwear items include nylon and acetate fabrics. I’ve found that many of the nightgowns my daughter would like to have–pink dresses with princesses printed on them–are made of nylon.

In contrast, most synthetic fiber sleepwear has a flame retardant inserted into the fabric fiber, including most polyester fabrics, as opposed to the fabric being “chemically treated” with a flame retardant. Fiber with flame retardants inserted into the fabric fiber are considered chemically stable. These manufacturers may claim that the sleepwear is not treated with a chemical flame retardant, and that’s true. The sleepwear is not “chemically treated.” But that doesn’t mean it is free of flame retardants. If children’s sleepwear is synthetic, flame retardant is present, whether the fabric is treated with flame retardant or the flame retardant is bonded to the fiber.

To avoid flame retardants in children’s sleepwear altogether (other than making your own) you can purchase snug fitting natural fiber pajamas, such as cotton. (And to be green and avoid pesticide residues, buy organic natural fiber cotton with low-impact dyes.) Sleepwear that is snug fitting meets flammability standards by being tight enough to a child's body that no stray sleeve can catch fire, and also by not allowing extra air between the fabric and the skin to promote the fire's growth if accidentally started. How can you tell if the cotton sleepwear in question is flame retardant free? Look for the hang tag that says "must be snug fitting" and “not flame resistant.”

And remember, not all cotton is free of flame retardants. Some sleepwear made of cotton is nonetheless treated with flame retardants. You’ll see cotton sleepwear advertised as containing Proban, which is made from tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium chloride, or THPC. Studies have shown low migration, but the chemical used in the process is associated with genetic abnormalities and damage to the liver, skin and nervous system. Securest is another name for Proban-treated fabric. If you see flame-resistant 100% cotton, then that cotton has flame retardants. If you don’t want flame retardants, then always look for the specific key phrases “must be snug fitting” and “not flame resistant.”

An original 5 Minutes for Going Green post.  Check out more hints for non-toxic living at Jennifer's personal blog, TheSmartMama.  Because, of course, smart mamas do it all naturally.

Shopping conscientiously doesn’t stop at being more frugal when making purchase decisions.  We also need to think of the global implication. Every purchase we make is essentially a vote for the world we want. We need to look at the people behind the products that we invest our monies with. Are our dollars supporting organics, fair trade, sustainable materials, and ethical companies? Do we even know where our money is going?

One example of a product that we really need to think about is diamonds.  There are many jewelry stores in your area I am sure, but which is the best one?  One jewelry store may get their diamonds from a mine in South Africa that employs unsafe practices for workers or pays less than fair wages. Many of these diamonds are called blood diamonds because of all the people who may have died to bring them to the store shelf.  By patronizing that store, you are condoning the practices by which they received their merchandise.

I know this is more than many people even want to think about but it is important.  People who do not value human rights are counting on us to let our wants overshadow any responsibility we have to our enslaved brothers or the environment.  Eco-friendly groups work to inform us about what is going on in the world and how we can make a positive difference. And we can make a difference with our money…remember, the old saying “Money Talks”. We spend billions of dollars during the holiday season for gifts, decorations, and other things.  Make the purchases mean something to someone beyond just the recipient.

Purchase recycled wrapping paper, low energy lighting for Christmas trees, organic cotton for creating clothing, and recycled ornaments and decorations.  This supports the recycling industry.  All paper that is recycled may not be suitable for paper bags in grocery stores, but it will make Christmas cards, gift tags, and wrapping paper.

Visiting fair trade merchants supports cooperatives and groups working in favor of oppressed and impoverished peoples in countries all over the world.  These artisans use recycled goods and natural products like stone and coal to create ornaments, decorations, baskets, utensils, and more to be sold on the open market.  Fair trade merchandise can be purchased at a variety of stores an online.  For a longer list of stores, go to www.transfairusa.org. Along those same lines, local merchants need your help and your patronage. Visit local farmers markets, flea markets, and trade shows to see who the local artisans are.

Save the planet and prevent waste by making informed choices this holiday season.  In the process you will discover a world of new products you never knew existed.

An original 5 Minutes for Going Green post. You can read more from Tiffany at her blog about Green Kids & Parenting, where she writes about green family living, parenting, natural health, safe children's products, and homeschooling. Subscribe to her blog here.

In 2006 they asked readers from all over the world to simply think outside of themselves, and outside their needs and wants, for that particular holiday season. In 2007 they asked everyone to buy gifts for their friends and family that made a difference to the local and global community, to commit to buying better gifts, purchases that gave back in some way.

In 2008, Christmas is Not Your Birthday is going green. Why?

Because we all know that unless you're Jimmy Buffet, Jesus, or Conrad Hilton, Christmas is not your birthday. And, we also know that every step we take to save the planet is a good one. And, we know that the current economic environment didn't magically make our gift list any shorter.

I've been a fan of Christmas is Not Your Birthday ever since an outreach-minded friend of mine turned me onto their site and their anti-traditional holiday premise in 2006. I think we can all agree that holidays, however well-intentioned we begin, can quickly spiral into a dangerous and self-centered gift giving extravaganza, and while I like giving and receiving gifts as much if not more than the next person, it's oh so fulfilling to trade a few gifts you were going to give or receive into something bigger than they would have been without the spirit of holiday humility and a bit of "good will toward men" behind them.

This year as part of their green initiative, Christmas is Not Your Birthday will also be offering downloadable gift tags for every green gift they suggest  on their site for this holiday season to help you explain the perpetually random-seeming gift, and why you're giving it. Like this one:

So, please, join Christmas is Not Your Birthday each Friday between now and December 25th as they highlight one seemingly small but greatly important green gift to give someone on your list this year. Why?

Because ultimately, the holidays should be less about wanting our own stuff and instead about helping someone get their (environmental) stuff together.

See you there!

Do you have a favorite green gift to give? Or plans to give green this upcoming holiday season? Share your green gift giving ideas here and they could be featured in our own Green Giving Guide to be featured on the site in the next few weeks.

An original 5 Minutes for Going Green post. Read more about all things Kerri Anne, including her renewed commitment to green living at kerrianne.org.

One of the biggest misconceptions that people have about living simple or living in a frugal manner is that it means great personal sacrifice.

Yet the idea behind simple living, or voluntary simplicity as it is also called, is not to live as cheaply as possible, but instead to see just how well you can live on less. It is entirely possible to be perfectly content and have all of your needs met and satisfied by living in a simple and frugal manner, no great sacrifices required. A vow of voluntary simplicity can bring a sense of inner peace and certainly less financial pressure. Many simple living enthusiasts think of it as a challenge that they are eager to accept. It is almost an art form: living so well on so little. So what are some of the principles of voluntary simplicity?

Eating With the Seasons – Most green folks usually refer to this as eating local or the hundred mile diet. Not only is it a very green way to eat, it is budget friendly too. Foods that have to travel long distances to our plate usually cost more, so do foods that never grow in climates like ours. Eating what is in season brings the freshest ingredients to our table and it helps us save money. Canning, dehydrating, and otherwise preserving in-season foods allows us to extend local eating into winter months as well for relatively little money. You could be eating a delicious meal of homemade pasta and canned tomato sauce in the dead of winter and what could be more delicious than that? Eating in season may also be simplistic in itself: a meal of flax crackers, smoked Gouda cheese from a nearby dairy, and berries so fresh that they explode in your mouth can be a “gourmet” meal.

Simple living for many also means growing their own food. It provides a sense of accomplishment and an opportunity for exercise. Even in limited spaces we can grow grape tomatoes in a window box, or fresh herbs on the window sill. Food does get any fresher than when you grow it yourself.

Time for Things That Matter – Simplicity will usually mean forsaking many expensive entertainment outings. Not only are they pricey but they never seem to relax us the way they should. Instead, opportunities for neighborhood walks, hikes at a state park, and reading in a comfy chair at the bookstore become an escape. Simple living enthusiasts treasure moments, events, and time with their loved ones, these are the luxuries that matter. Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe once said, “One ought every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and if it were possible, to speak a few reasonable words.”

Simple is Classic - When evaluating new clothing purchases it is important to analyze every item and make sure it matches at least 5 other things you already own. For the sake of storage and for laundry day don’t buy too many clothes you have no need for. Pants in several basic colors, coordinating shirts and sweaters in different styles, a few stylish dresses, no frills shoes in basic colors. We don’t really need much. Choosing a basic and limited wardrobe allows us to buy quality items since we don’t have to have such great quantity. Sturdy classic clothes in earthy or neutral colors never go out of style either.

If that doesn’t sound like your style, there is always the wonder of thrift stores and consignment shops. In fact, much more than clothes can be found in places like these. You can decorate your entire home tastefully and affordably by buying second hand. With a good eye for timeless and beautiful pieces no one will know the difference.

As you can see, there is no need to feel as though you must do without in order to apply the principles of voluntary simplicity in your life. You can live a “rich” life on relatively little.

For more info I recommend the book Choosing Simplicity; you can read my review of it here.

An original 5 Minutes for Going Green post. You can read more from Tiffany at her blog about Green Moms, where she writes about green family living, parenting, natural health, safe children's products, and homeschooling. Subscribe to her blog here.

The paper comprising all Ecojot's cards, notebooks, agendas, and file folders are created from 100% post-consumer recycled content, which means no new trees are ever used in their creation and printing process.

The three notebooks above came in a set I found at Powell's, but there are many other colorful and eco-centric designs on Ecojot's website. I liked these because they were simple and perfectly pocket or purse-sized, while also rocking three re-purposed mantras which make them not only great for list-making, but as a thoughtful and eco-friendly gift, too.

While you can't buy directly from the site, they do have a comprehensive list of stores where their products are sold, and many of those distributors feature online stores.

Halloween was a breeze. Despite my husband's protests, we gave out locally produced apples from Nichols Farm purchased at our local Green City Market. Whew! Something I could believe in, an item my kids actually prefer over candy, and used dollars to benefit a local business. Perfect! No plastic crap made in another country to mindlessly buy to give. I keep thinking of The Story of Stuff. One down, many more to go…

Since Jack's birthday party has a yoga theme with an instructor giving the kids lessons and all, I chose to make a set of ten yoga instruction cards for each child. (Please note: When I conceived this project, I did not consider the fact that we would have 25 kids attending the party!) My son chose his favorite poses and I picked the ten poses I could render free hand. Inspired, I dug into the bin of recycled papers and magazines to cut out the yoga shapes and backgrounds in contrasting colors and patterns and voila! *Disclaimer: I did print the pose description, but compensated by printing on sheets that had already been used on one side.*

Hostess gifts? Presents? My passion for function and space (I am a natural organizer from birth!) gets me in trouble when choosing gifts for people. Even though I try to make gifts first, I don't make just anything. The focus is on what the person could use on an every day basis that will not take up unnecessary space and clutter. Cloth napkins have been my best choice thus far. Just whip out the sewing machine, or pop by your local eco-friendly boutique and give a gift that actually saves your host or hostess money while encouraging conservation.

While this is only the first step of many, I feel thankful that our family has the opportunity to make or buy gifts this season. Hopefully by being mindful we can make a positive impact and show our gratitude at the same time.

An original 5 Minutes for Going Green post. Jen shares her adventures going green and raising a family as The Eco Chic Organizer.

There are many, many things I know I can easily replace in my home that consume energy. I can easily do more.

So why don't I? Because I'm used to convenience. I like my food processor and my coffee maker. I love my vacuum and my lawnmower. I had once made a vow to begin replacing items in my home with green equivalents, if or when they broke down or got used up. Old habits die hard. My first instinct is to head to Walmart and pick up a replacement at a very low, low price.

The question I've began asking myself lately is, how low, low are these prices in the end? And if I'm going to truly live a green lifestyle, should I not take these little things a bit more seriously? Perhaps my new coffee maker was less that $50, but how much electricity over its lifetime will it consume? How many paper filters will I use and throw away? How many half full pots of coffee will I throw out to make fresh?

I don't have the answer to these questions other than to say that I am still being wasteful. I am a big green hypocrite. I attempt to live greenly, but not as much as I should. I get lazy. I rationalize things. Well, I used my fabric bags at the grocery store today, so I'm good! I've done my part today! As I get home and realize I left my bathroom light on, again.

I don't want to be a hypocrite. I want to make green living second nature to me. This means replacing thirty-five years of wasteful conditioning with eco-centric living. It's definitely going to take time. It's definitely going to take baby steps and new habits being created daily. I've heard that it takes three weeks to establish a new good habit to replace an old bad one. So if I keep trying and keep working at this, it's sure to pay off little by little!

Right?

I think so.

An original 5 Minutes for Going Green post! Beth blogs about her urban homesteading life at Coming Up For Air.

Also, don't forget: There are 2 more days to enter the Home Depot's "Save Money. Save Energy. Win Big!" contest. Details here.

How to win these awesome eco-prizes?

Just shoot a short video to show how you are saving money and helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient, and enter it at www.homedepot.com/youtube. That's it!

The videos should focus on conserving energy in your home and addressing issues to prevent high energy bills – such as the use of dimmer switches, ceiling fans, water conservation and/or insulation.

All entries will be judged on relevance to the energy savings theme, originality, and creativity.

The second and third place winners will receive $1,500 and $500 Home Depot gift cards, respectively.

Not sure on the best ways to save energy in your home? Be sure to check out the tips on the Eco-Options section of Home Depot's website.

Now get busy with the energy saving video-making! And please feel free to spread the word!