Arsenic and old wood?

Margot just sent me a link to an interesting article. Did you know that your old wood decks and play sets could have been treated with arsenic?

According to this article, wood that is older than 2004 could have arsenic. It’s not a major problem, as long as you don’t touch it and then put your hands in your mouth… but what about kids and pets? What about the 5 second rule?

Also, be careful that you don’t sand or pressure wash the wood.

A natrual Christmas

I think that this wreath from Viva Terra is just lovely!

I love the idea of a nature themed Christmas palate. Christmas trees (the most nature inspired part of the holiday already) could be decorated in pine cones, berries, and other nature inspired ornaments. The dinner table could have pretty plates that looks like stone, or even ice. The possibilities are endless, and all very fun as well. Plus, it’s good for the planet if you use actual bits of nature since you can toss them on the compost pile when the season is over.

Going green.

I’m pretty excited at the recent popularity of green products. It’s great for the planet, and for design now too! It’s always been an interest of mine to be able to have “green” products in my home, but up until recently they have been hard to find, or ugly. Not so anymore! Here are some of my favorite finds so far:

• Organic cotton bath towels in a range of colors.
• Solar powered lights, there are many that I would love to add to my garden, and I think these would look very cute along a pathway.
• Organic cotton bath mats from West Elm.
• Method cleaning products, which smell good, clean well, and are planet friendly. I love my oMop, everyone should have one if you ask me!
• A recycled magazine rack by Frank Lloyd Wright. Function, beauty, and green? Sounds good to me!

Are you trying to go green in your home? Have you found any great sites or products to help you do it?