Monday's Photos

Home Detox

This past week, my family received some sad news about my aunt having cancer. This will be the 3rd family member on that side of the family who has had cancer - and I am convinced all of the cases were environmental (being around a lot of chemicals, etc). I couldn't help but think of all the toxic ingredients we encounter everyday and how I can make small changes to hopefully be a little bit healthier. So I decided to do a home detox.

I discovered Jessica Alba's company, the Honest Company - cute products that are all plant-based. I tried to buy some of the products, but they were sold out...so I went to Whole Foods and bought all new products instead. So what all did I replace?

1. Laundry Detergent - Ecos, $12.49
2. Fabric Softener - Whole Foods
3. Hand Soaps - Mrs. Meyers, $5.99
4. Dishwasher Soap - Whole Foods
5. Surface Cleaner
6. Toothpaste - Jason, $6
7. Shampoo/Conditioner Whole Foods
8. Body Wash - Castille Soap
9. Toilet Cleaner
10. Hand Sanitizer
11. Body Cream - Shikai, $9.99
12. Perfume - Whole Foods
13. Face Cream - Alba
14. Toner
15. Deoderant - Hugo Naturals, $4.99

Nom Nom.

Changes at the Abode

This past weekend I had an itch to get some major things done around my house. So I spent half of both Saturday and Sunday tackling them. Doing this kind of stuff is therapeutic for me - I get into a flow and forget about nearly everything else that's going on. Besides, a clean home and a cozy, well-thought-out environment can really impact how you feel!

First of all, I bought a new bed. I know, I know - WHY?? The bed I was using is beautiful and absolutely unique. However, it was designed poorly and after several ghetto rigs later, it still couldn't offer me the central support I needed. My back was in really bad shape because of it. So, I ended up moving that bed to the guest room and buying the Draper bed from World Market - which I have personally tried out, so I knew it would be a quality piece without having to spend an arm and a leg. I also purchased new mattresses, as they were also part of the problem. I am happy with the results, and my back is much happier already :)

I also ended up switching out a small armoire that was in my room with an old art deco buffet that was in the guest room. I needed more of a dresser piece to put my jewelry and accessories, so it did the trick. It fit perfectly into the space and I think the wood goes with the bed really well. I am not a fan of matchy-match or showroom bedrooms (you know where the bed matches the dresser, and the nightstands...and so on. Just a personal preference, of course).

Above the dresser, I hung the pumpkin vine ball I bought at Round Top. I eventually want to make this into a hanging lamp - I just need to get the right materials to do so. I also propped up a really old art deco style mirror on top of the dresser.

I also ended up buying a piece of furniture for my bathroom to use as storage, as I have no counter space for toiletries. It's just an Ikea piece, but it was the perfect size and I like that it has a cabinet to hide things in.

SO, let me rewind and tell you a little story. Last October, I allowed a very troubled individual to move in with me - this person was supposed to be getting their life together whilst under my roof. Well, long story short, they ended up breeding FERRETS and allowing them to use the room as their litter box. Yes, you just read that correctly. I had only set foot in there about 3 times since then until yesterday when I decided to steam the carpets, paint over the walls, scrub the baseboards, etc. Most of the smell is gone, but there are still stains on the carpet, but the carpet should be coming up soon anyway, so I am not as concerned with that. I am happy with the way the room is cleaning up - and I feel like I have half of my house back! ;)

Photos: Out and About