Green Adventures

So I am well into my plastic removal routine. I am now very aware of the items around me that are plastic related. Also, in relation to the plastic removal from my life, I have noticed an overlap of chemical free items now on my radar. Personally, I do believe that the chemicals are more detrimental to my personal well being and I am trying to incorporate that into my "Going Green...errrr". I have some updates from my previous post along with additional thoughts and findings.

Kitchen:In regards to condiments, I have found ketchup and mustard in cans at Cash-N-Carry along with glass bottles. It does come in bulk but I can survive that. I have yet to find an alternative package for sourcream and yogurt. SAD FOR ME. But, for the bulk spices, I am now aware that you can bring your spice container with you and have customer service weigh it before you fill it with spices. This now eliminates my worry of overpaying due to weight and removes the plastic bag use. WIN FOR ME - YAY!

Bathroom: Heather has successfully created a shampoo bar so I am excited to put that to the test but,  am still in the process of finding a Conditioner alternative.  I have been experimenting with different dilutes of coconut oil and shae butter - Still in experimental phase. I have made my own toothpaste using cocnut oil, baking soda and peppermint oil. I waited until my current tube of toothpaste was empty, then cut the end off and am using it for my new mixture. I use a little chip clip from pampered Chef to keep the end closed. The recipe link is HERE. I have acquired a body scrub (again from Heather) that contains sugar, lemon, and lavender. It works great but I have not tried it on my face. There are many places you can find "homemade" toiletries but, beware, they might say all natural and contain chemicals and ingredients that are not sustainably gathered. I will also be starting to replace my makeup and wont that be fun! I will start with Lady Bug Jane products that are not in plastic and go from there.

Dining Out: I am a sucker for dining out and I have been observing the different uses of plastic in restaurants. I obviously want to support establishments that make an effort to be environmentally friendly but, I also need to know what I can do to lessen the impact. My initial findings were to not use straws and to avoid takeout containers. Some of my recent visits have found the following;
Sockeye Brewery - reusable containers side sauces and paper to-gos
Yard House - Glass sauce dishes
Highlands Hollow - paper togo boxes

I was sent a great starter link in regards to alternatives for many household items, the link is HERE and I will update you all with my opinions of the items I use. I will be starting with the soap nuts and coffee grounds as an exfoliate. Heather has made a coffee ground soap and will be making another version shortly, I will let you know how it goes.