National Chocolate Milk Day?

At public schools, they REALLY push cow milk.   The posters of celebrities with cow milk mustaches, the "milk-time",  and of course it is THE drink at lunch.  Given a choice of white milk or chocolate milk, most kids choose the chocolate milk, which is also loaded with sugar. But both cow milks have growth hormones, preservatives, and are pasteurized and homogenized, (which is an unnecessary process that is actually even worse for the human body.)   Plus, did you know that some manufacturers bring back the unsold (white) milk from the grocery stores and mix in the chocolate/sugar to preserve it, then re-bottle and sell it as chocolate milk?  Ewww. Gross. If you want any educational reading (from DOCTORS) on why cow milk is not good for humans, click here, here, here, here, here, or just google....  I would say "Got Proof?"

Solution for our kids lunchbox:   Chocolate Almond Milk in single serve packages! (The brand pictured here is Blue Diamond Almond Breeze.)
We buy a lot of this and also keep it at Natural Selections, our retail boutique store in the drink cooler with the natural sodas and coconut water, because adults love it too! (I think it's a great treat/snack combo, and it even has protein! And have you tried it in coffee or tea? Fantastic!)

And if you are a TOTAL chocolate-lover, you will want to check out the 100% Pure Body Creme and Cosmetics made with real Chocolate!

Everyone's FAVORITE Organic Bra

Over the last 19 years I have helped countless people buy Organic Cotton Bras.  I always listen to what each customer likes and does not like, and I tell the manufacturers, and each season we see better and better organic cotton products.

This is far and away, our best-selling organic bra.  It's soft. It's supportive. It has pretty lace. It's adjustable. It even has removeable pads so that you can choose your comfort zone.  Every woman who has tried this bra on in our store goes home with it! (And then they come back and want it in several colors!) And now it is on our website, so you can have it too!

Years ago, I wrote a post about the formaldehyde in Victoria's Secret bras causing welts and rashes. At the time, I felt so sorry for the women experiencing it. I thought about how some people are simply more sensitive and literally become the "canary in the cage" being the first to react to chemicals in clothing.  I felt thankful that I had never had this problem.  But... this year, I tried wearing a bra I got from Victoria's Secret (a satin bra that I bought because I thought it was "pretty"- and how foolish I feel now), and I got a horrible, red raised rash under both arms. I  wore a different bra until the rash went away (which took almost 2 weeks!)  When it was gone, I waited a few months, and then put on the Victorias Secret bra again. By the next day, I had the rash again. That bra cost me: $50,  a lot of guilt over the made-in-China tag, and a ton of pain and itching! At this moment, I am swearing it off forever.

And if you want to see our 12 other very popular and pretty organic bra styles, we welcome you view some on our website: www.TheOrganicCompany.com , or call our retail store:  Natural Selections  641-472-5876, open 11-5 Monday-Friday and 10-5 Saturday, central standard time.

Cosmic Cami made with Organic Cotton and Organic Bamboo ~ for Yoga

Our favorite workout tank is elegant enough to wear with a skirt too!

 Balance A-Line Cami is flattering & functional, with a V-neck & slimming A-Line Silhouette. Style is made from our exclusive breathable and super comfortable organic bamboo Eco-Luxury support jersey than vintage washed to perfection. Featuring keyhole back, full shelf liner with bra cup inserts and a printed front with original water-based art "Tahitian Sunrise". This style can be worn alone or as a layer under our tank top. Natural A-Line fit.

* One of a kind vintage wash means each garment will be unique & color may
vary slightly.
* 4-Way stretch for maximum mobility
* Performance Support where you need it most
* Highly Breathable for every active need
* Eco-Friendly & Organic

Don't wear foundation unless you have this! Organic Primer!

If you ever wear foundation, you owe it to yourself to have this primer underneath. It makes ALL the difference!  The organic aloe nourishes your skin, and fills in tiny lines so that when you put on your foundation and other makeup, your skin looks nearly flawless!
Women of every age LOVE this and tell us it is their favorite beauty item!

9 Easy Edible Plants for Your Garden!

I have finally put in my garden! It is so fantastic to know that soon I will have beautiful little plants and later, delicious food!  Here are nine easy-to-grow plants that I chose!

 The garden can feed your skin too! Our favorite skincare and makeup made from REAL VEGGIES and FRUITS!

There is a great article about these at Sunset:  http://www.sunset.com/garden/fruits-veggies/easy-edible-plants-00418000075162/page8.html

GLUTEN-FREE Makeup and Skincare!

GOOD NEWS! We feel it is very important to let our customers know that GLUTEN-FREE individuals will LOVE the skincare and makup we carry by 100% Pure! Click the link to see what we offer!

What is gluten?
Gluten comes from wheat, rye, malt, oats, and barley. These ingredients are often used in cosmetic products as binders or emollients, helping ingredients mix together.  People with gluten sensitivities can experience a variety of reactions when exposed to gluten, including inflammation throughout the body, gastro-intestinal problems, depression, eczema, headaches, and exhaustion. Why do we need “gluten-free” cosmetic products?
Much of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our bodies, so in addition to being careful about the foods they consume, people with gluten sensitivities also have to be aware of the cosmetics they use. All 100% Pure products are gluten-free and are labeled as such, with the exception of our mascaras since they contain oat and wheat proteins.

It’s particularly important for people who have gluten allergies to be cautious of the shampoo and conditioner they use because these products are especially prone to being ingested in the shower. All of 100% Pure’s brand new shampoos and conditioners are completely gluten-free, so those with gluten sensitivities can use our hair care products safely.

Organic Latex for Sweet Dreams

click the picture to see Certified Organic Latex

Looking to soften or change up your bed?  Our cores and toppers are made of 100% Certified ORGANIC Natural Latex Rubber with no artificial additives to dilute its quality. (Certified by USDA.) This Eco Friendly, Organic product is naturally hypo-allergenic, dust mite resistant, and will not support mildew or bacteria. Available in a traditional pin core design. Manufactured by a plant that is ISO 9001 certified, the mark of excellence and consistency in any industry.

Organic Latex is tapped from the Hevea Brasiliensis rubber tree on carefully selected plantations. Latex Green uses the highest quality Certified Organic Latex in the industry for all cores & toppers. Elasticity and resiliency are dominant characteristics of Organic Rubber bedding components. Latex Green components offer outstanding durability and guarantee the ultimate comfort in any sleeping position. This is the greenest component available to the industry and the most eco friendly product on the market. We use the “Dunlop” process, with only Sri Lankan high Quality “Natural Latex”.

Properties of our Organic Latex:

* NATURALLY CONFORMING -- Organic Latex relieves pressure points that can cause unnecessary tossing and turning. Provides the best possible support and comfort.
* ANTI-MICROBIAL -- Organic Latex is naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, fungus, and mildew. It is hypo-allergenic. You'll get a healthier and happier nights' sleep.
* NATURALLY BREATHABLE -- Organic Latex "breathes", which helps in reducing body moisture to keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
* DURABILITY ASSURED -- Organic Latex provides a longer comfort life, assuring you of a more durable, longer lasting mattress.
* OUTSTANDING VALUE -- Organic Latex is one of the best upholstery materials ever used in the sleep industry. On average, it has the lowest cost per night. It never needs to be flipped or turned.

Contents:
Organic Natural Latex Rubber 90-95%
Zinc Oxide 2-3%
Fatty Acid Soaps 1-2%
Sulfur 1-2% (bakes out completely during processing)
Sodium 1-2%


Did you know?
Each rubber tree weeps 15 grams of latex, daily. A Queen size Core needs the daily output of 2500 trees, spread over 12 acres of rubber plantation, providing a living to eight rubber tappers. Interestingly, these rubber trees account for the removal of 143 metric tons of Carbon Di Oxide from the environment in 1 year. This is the genuine contribution to the environment of Organic Latex.

We spend a third of our lives in bed.  Make it a wonderful place to be. We look forward to helping you!

Chocolate for Your Morning Routine!

 What I feed my skin:

Amazing, luxurious, natural products that give you the true naturally occuring aroma of the real chocolate they are made with, in addition to the wealth of skin benefits because they are made chemical-free. When you read the ingredients you will be amazed!

All 100% Pure cocoa products contain real cocoa, and are formulated without harsh detergents, chemical preservatives, synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances or any other unsafe ingredients. - See more at: http://www.glossylocks.com/Purity_Cosmetics_Blog/?s=chocolate&op.x=0&op.y=0#sthash.OW9ZQmAv.dpuf

All 100% Pure cocoa products contain real cocoa, and are formulated without harsh detergents, chemical preservatives, synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances or any other unsafe ingredients. - See more at: http://www.glossylocks.com/Purity_Cosmetics_Blog/?s=chocolate&op.x=0&op.y=0#sthash.OW9ZQmAv.dpuf

All 100% Pure cocoa products contain real cocoa, and are formulated without harsh detergents, chemical preservatives, synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances or any other unsafe ingredients. - See more at: http://www.glossylocks.com/Purity_Cosmetics_Blog/?s=chocolate&op.x=0&op.y=0#sthash.OW9ZQmAv.dpuf

Pictured from left: Cocoa Kona Hydrating Bodywash, Cocoa Kona Coffee Body Cream, Chocolate Body Scrub, Cocoa Berry Lip & Cheek Ting, Cocoa Berry Lip Gloss, Cocoa Bronzer ~ All made with all natural and organic ingredients and REAL chocolate! Click the picture to see them on my website! You can also email me for more info organiclonicalee@gmail.com
I also use the Dark Chocolate Pigmented Mascara!

What I feed my body:

I do a lot of smoothies and sometimes I also want something with it. And of course, I happen to LOVE chocolate. (But I do think it needs to be organic, and dairy-free!)  Currently, this is my favorite cereal. A beautifully made organic granola with generous chunks of Dark Chocolate, and sweet red Strawberries and Raspberries!  It is fantastic as a dry, sweet, crunchy snack at any time of day, as well as morning (or anytime) cereal.  And it passes the kid test (I think I am qualified to say this, since all 4 of my children (ages 12, 9, 4, an 3) love it too! An easy way to start your morning with a vegan treat!

Nourish your skin to Beautiful!

click the picture to see a selection of our favorites!

 

Food you can feed your skin! This organic garden featuring our our 100% all natural, healthy vegetable based skin care by 100% Pure will feed your skin with lots of vitamins and nutrients to keep it looking healthy and glowing - just in time for Spring!

step 1: Cleanse skin with the richly foaming Cucumber Juice Facial Cleansing Foam. Use with the Facial Cleansing Brush - the bristles are antibacterial and extremely gentle, so it won't scratch your delicate skin.

step 2: Exfoliate with the antioxidant-packed Carrot Facial Scrub to remove dead skin cells, bumps, and flakes for incredibly soft and smooth skin. Gentle enough for daily use.

step 3: Hydrate and soothe your eye area (including eyelids and under-eye) with the Organic Cucumber Eye Cream Gel. For especially tired, dehydrated eyes, place the eye cream gel in the fridge before using.

step 4: Nourish your skin with the Tomato Lycopene Face Cream to restore lackluster skin. Tomatoes are abundant in lycopene, a protective antioxidant that will protect your skin against damage and aging, restoring your complexion to be at its healthiest.

RAW Chocolate!

 Making RAW chocolate is easier than you may think! This is from TheEarthDiet.com and it is a wonderful recipe!

It can be done in 3 EASY STEPS with only 3 INGREDIENTS:

1. ALMOND MEAL - Use any other preferred nut! Use processed hemp seeds as a nut alternative.

2. CACAO POWDER - Mix with almond meal.

3. MAPLE SYRUP - Mix in with other ingredients. Use honey or other natural sweetener as an alternative if you choose.

ACTION:
Mix 1 cup almond meal, 3/4 cup cacao powder, and a 1/4 cup maple syrup in a bowl, combine, and roll into balls!

And that makes delicious, HEALTHY, unbelievably nourishing RAW CHOCOLATES!

*Roll in coconut flakes for added flavor!
+ADD Peanut butter for peanut butter chocolate balls!
+ADD Cacao butter and set in the fridge for a hard chocolate

The best kind of desserts are the kind you can eat every day and feel good about it!

Benefits of RAW CHOCOLATE:
GREAT FOR WEIGHT LOSS!
MOOD ENHANCING - Can increase the levels of seratonin produced in the brain :)
APHRODISIAC
HIGH IN PROTEIN
HIGH IN ANTIOXIDANTS - RAW cacao has quite the powerful antioxidant kick!
PROMOTES HEALTHY SKIN - Rich in sulfur
Contains many essential vitamins and minerals
IMPROVES FOCUS - Rich in magnesium, which helps in balancing brain chemistry.
IMPROVES CIRCULATION
PROMOTES HEART HEALTH
VEGAN


If you are like me, and can't get enough chocolate.. check out our makeup and bodycare made with REAL chocolate!

Wrapping Wool Yarn

When my daughter Lily was four years old I made her some hand-knitted leg warmers to wear to her dance class.   I used a gorgeous ocean blue colored handspun soft wool yarn from the At Home store on our town square in Fairfield, IA.   Now Lily is almost 13 years old!  Her little sisters Alexis and Sofia want to wear them... but we need another pair! So we went to the store to pick another color. Alexis said she wanted the same blue, but with RED stripes. So we chose a soft almost pinky red, along with more of the same gorgeous blue. Rosie, the owner of the store, showed the girls how to wind the yarn from a skein to a ball, so it is all ready to be knitted!

 I cannot knit anything as wonderful as the fair-trade sweaters that we carry in our store, but I can aspire to!  Click the picture to see our current offerings of fair-trade knits...

Organic Designer is.... MY SISTER!

Ananda and Lonica

The holidays bring fun and visits from those we LOVE... in this case my sister Ananda Bhavani, who came from sunny California to the Iowa frozen tundra! Ananda has designed for the organic yoga wear brand called Green Apple Active for the last 5 years!  All of the staff and I are always wearing something of hers (see our picture below from last year!) The jacket and yoga pants are SO comfortable and super soft! I LOVE the colors and designs! To see some of our current offerings of her collections, click HERE....

Lonica, Kristina, Sandy - ONE YEAR AGO!