Simple and natural holiday decorations....

Burlap stocking

Rosemary to spice up a place setting 

Potted herbs  for easy decor

Pine cones and greenery to dress up a simple jar or hurricane

I've actually already put up Christmas decorations from last year, but I want to mix it up some this season. Keep it simple and easy. Maybe even go shopping in the back yard. I may have gone too far, but you get the point!

Also, in other news, I ordered our Christmas cards today! I fell in love with some of the cards on minted but ended up using shutterfly again because I found multiple coupons! The earth may not be thanking me on this one, but my pocketbook is. 

Juicing....

A few weeks ago I started juicing! It has been something I have wanted to try for a long time, and I was finally pushed over the edge after I read about Sydney's experience over at The Day Book {one of my fav blogs}. Before reading about her experience, I thought juicing was for those crazy super green people, but she changed my perspective. And here I am, not a crazy super green person, and I am doing it. I am juicing. And guess what, I actually really love it. Good thing because that juicer was expensive.

I'm not going to lie, my first juice was horrible because I decided to make the greenest.juice.ever. But now, I've really gotten the hang of it, and even found myself craving juice when we were away for Thanksgiving. It may or may have not been the first thing I did when we got home. Hmm....

But seriously, it makes me feel much better, especially with my allergy symptoms, and I get a boost of energy. Yay! No more 3 o'clock siesta!

It definitely takes some experimenting and I suggest starting with the fruits and veggies that taste good to you, and as you learn how much juice each will produce you can start to create your own!

Also, I've started using my juicer for creating fresh cocktails! And.they.are.delish!! Extra Yay!

Simple Thanksgiving tips....

As you are planning your delicious Thanksgiving feasts, keep in mind 

these tips to make your meal a little greener!

1. Opt for organic foods

2. Rely on local foods

3. Set out reusable napkins

4. Use organic wine

5. Use your everyday dishes or show off your nice china, instead of paper items

Simple enough, right?!

The hubs and I are headed to the beach with the in-laws for Thanksgiving. I always enjoy some quality beach time with family and friends! Hope you are able to spend time with those you love!

Fall cocktails...

*The Stone Fence*

2 cups apple cider

1/2 cup bourbon {Maker's Mark is eco friendly}

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

4 teaspoons maple syrup {grade B}

8 thin slices gingeroot

1 cup seltzer

Full recipe can be found here

*Autumn Sangria*

3 honey crisp apples, sliced

1/2 cup dried canberries

1/2 cup halved dried figs

1 cup Cabernet Sauvignon {Trader Joe's has organic options}

3 cups apple cider

4 whole cinnamon sticks

1/2 tbsp whole cloves

1/8 tsp grated nutmeg

Full recipe can be found here

*Sparkling Pear & Rosemary Cocktail*

6 or 10 Seckel pears

4 cups (32 ounces) vodka {Square One Organics & Fair Spirits are sustainable}

1 cup sugar

12 sprigs fresh rosemary 

1 1/2 cups (12 ounces) pear nectar

4 cups (32 ounces) sparkling water

Full recipe can be found here.

Recycled paper holiday cards...

Anyone else have holiday cards on the brain?? I'm trying to get a head start on things and am looking for a more sustainable product this year. I came across the website minted.com, which has simple and beautiful holiday cards printed on recycled paper! Looks like it may be slightly cheaper than what I paid last year too--even better!

What companies do you use for a more sustainable holiday card product?

Thanksgiving decor ideas....

*All photos compliments of Pinterest

A few Thanksgiving decor inspiration ideas--easy, simple, and eco friendly! I especially love the "I am thankful for..." placemat--lovely and gets you thinking! Never hurts to reflect on all of your blessings. I'm trying to do more of it this month.