I have been using mesh produce bags for years. I bought mine from an independent online retailer who unfortunately, is no longer around. I assumed the company was put out of business because big chains started to make the bags cheaper. But I have to scratch my head because every time I check out of a grocery store — and I hit all the major ones — cashiers always comment on my bags like they have never seen them before. People in line comment that they are really cool.
I have seen a few for sale in grocery stores here and there and then they disappear which makes me wonder if anyone is buying them? I have yet to see a single shopper use them at a Metro or Loblaws store in my travels in Ontario — and I have been snooping in carts lately to investigate! Since a couple friends have asked why I have lingerie laundry bags in the trunk of my car, I thought I'd put together a few great companies that are making these bags.
Another great place to find these bags is on Etsy. There are lots of colourful options and it's a great way to support an artisan, perhaps even one in your home community. Here is a general link as well as a few of my faves below.
If you don't use them yet, you will love them and will help keep more plastic out of our landfills. If you already own some, what is your favourite brand and where did you get yours? I am sure there are many of you (okay, all of you) more handy with a sewing machine that I ever will be and know this makes a fantastic DIY project! Kudos to you if you have made your own!
Top Photo: LoveForEarth on Etsy
Ricki's makes me happy, its clothing is a little bit of affordable deliciousness. As I have mentioned before, its line ranges in size from a 0-18. Why can't more stores do this? Why do many stores stop their sizing at a 12-14? Sigh. All the curvy girls I know love this store because it is one of the only outlets that makes clothing in that missing size range. Every time we get together, someone is wearing a new affordable piece from Ricki's. This in turn leads to the rest of us rushing out to buy it. Then the next time we get together, we have to make sure not to all show up in the same outfit!
I am in a blue period of clothing right now. It is my attempt to stop wearing so much black. In my hunt for all things blue, I stumbled upon these great finds from Ricki's — most under $50!
Self Tie Placement Print Top, $29.99
Convertible Bandeau Dress, $49.50
Floral Mirror Print Skirt, $49.50
Printed Slim Cropped Pant, $49.50
Off-Shoulder Colour Block Dress, $39.99
Symmetric Floral Print Skirt, $29.99
Now the question is which one to buy? Perhaps purchasing more than one piece is in order...
I love a good book. And when I am done reading, I love sharing my books with others. I am the person who gets excited at a cottage when I see the sign: Have a book? Leave a book. Want a book? Take a book. So, I was quite delighted when I discovered Little Free Libraries scattered across Toronto's Beaches neighbourhood. Picture quirky, adorable little houses — or libraries — posted outside people's homes with the purpose of sharing books. They just evoke a feeling of community.
The 5000 registered Little Free Libraries in the world and approximately 1000 unregistered ones got their start in 2009 in Hudson, Wisconsin when Todd Bol mounted a wooden container looking like a school house on his front lawn to honour his mom who was a teacher and book lover. With his friend and partner Rick Brooks, they spread the word and began to offer library boxes for sale on their website or owners can create their own.
Unlike a traditional library, you don't need a card, there are no late fees. There is an honour system in place in that you may return your finished book to another Little Free Library or donate some of your own. The units always seem to be fully stocked with new books and maintain a flow — book lovers respect books and will pass them along!
If you are interested in finding a Little Free Library in your area or even buying or creating one of your own, visit the website to see its designs and a map of registered locations. These aren't just for the front lawns of houses either — what a wonderful community outreach for a business too! I am all for anything that encourages reading — the more fun the better.
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