So Much to be Thankful For

Just wanted to take a moment to wish you a wonderful, warm, joy filled Thanksgiving!

The awesome aroma of Thanksgiving is all around us, as we gather together to celebrate family, friends, and all the blessings we have been showered with.

A few of the things we are especially thankful for:

Our most wonderful family, and welcoming our future daughter in law to our mix : - )

All of our friends, and those of you who we are getting to know

A warm home filled with love, which is a special blessing from God

The last lingering colors of Fall

The Christmas music that is already playing...

Lots of comfort food made with love

and the pumpkin pie that we broke into this morning cuz we just couldn't wait!!!!!

Enjoy this special time and don't waste a moment of it!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
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The Tee's in the Mail

Congratulations to Kevin T of San Francisco! His name was randomly selected to receive a "New Growth" T-Shirt in our latest giveaway.

Thank you all for your support. It's fun meeting more and more of you, hearing your interpretations of our BOTF designs. Very cool!

Be sure to check our Facebook page for future giveaways and promotions!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special discounts/giveaways!

"New Growth" Organic Tee Giveaway

It's T-Shirt giveaway time again! Brand of the Free (BOTF) is giving away a "New Growth" organic tee! Here is your chance to win this cool, cozy tee - for yourself or maybe to give as a gift to a friend!

You can enter up to three times. It's easy, just follow the steps below:*

1. Sign up for our email list at
http://www.brandofthefree.net/ If you are already on our email/newsletter list, you are automatically entered!

2. Post a comment on this blog, letting us know your fav BOTF designs, or why choosing American made, organic apparel is important to you.

3. Post a comment on our BOTF Facebook Page on the T-Shirt Giveaway Post.

*Enter by midnight of October 31st to be eligible. The winner will be announced on Monday, November 1st.

Good luck!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info and special discounts/giveaways

Good People Make the Difference

We're truly enjoying our experience at the Reston Farmer's Market at Lake Anne. The warm community atmosphere, the tranquility of the lake, the array of wonderful produce, meats, bread, dairy and all the vendors offering so many beautiful, unique products make this market extraordinary!

As always, it's the people that make the difference. We've met many interesting people as they shop the market, and made some new friends with "locals" that frequent the market regularly. We've also developed friendships with many of the vendors.

One vendor who really shines is Pat Greer of PL Greer Designs. I love to hear Pat speak of her craft...she is gifted, inspiring, and very humble. Most of her jewelry designs are one of a kind, and she handcrafts each piece to perfection. Pat's artisan jewelry has a unique ethnic flair, using sterling silver, copper and brass.

If you're drawn to jewelry that makes a statement, whether it be bold or subtle, make sure to stop by PL Greer Designs on Saturdays 8am-1pm at The Reston Farmer's Market at Lake Anne, or take a moment to browse Pat's website.

http://www.plgreer.com/


Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways.

Tee Shirt a Month Giveaway for a Year

Congratulations to Catherine from Washington, DC! She was randomly selected to receive a BOTF tee shirt each month for 13 months. We are so excited to ship out her first shirt...DC Delicious!

Catherine - hope you enjoy your first tee and all that follow!

A special thanks to all of you - your response has been heartwarming. So many of you share our commitment to the support of American made products and a more eco-conscious mindset. Please continue to contact us with your thoughts and feedback.

Be sure to keep your eyes open for future giveaways!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info and special discounts/giveaways.

All Your Favorite BOTF Tees

Summer is going by so quickly! We've been in a whirlwind lately, displaying at Artscape in Baltimore, Saturday and Thursday nights at Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne, and Sundays at the West End Farmers Market at Cameron Station. There are more great locations on the calendar and we'll make sure to let you know as they get closer.

We're excited about the growth that Brand of the Free is experiencing. Because of your support, whether it be through a purchase or spreading the word, BOTF tees are popping up all over! It's cool to meet new people who are thrilled to find us because they recognize our designs. Those of you who are able to come out to the markets - we enjoy getting to know you more each time we visit, and appreciate your support and input/feedback BIG TIME!

We want to thank all of you very much for your support!

One of the ways we thought of to say "thank you" is to give away a years worth of BOTF tees. When you sign up for our newsletter, you will be automatically entered. (if you are currently on our newsletter email list, you are already entered!) The lucky winner will receive a BOTF tee a month, for 13 months. Yes....now THAT'S the way to get all those designs you've been wanting!

If you're not signed up for our newsletter yet, you have until midnight on July 31st to be eligible for the giveaway. Good luck and enjoy the rest of the Summer!

You can sign up on our Facebook Page or enter your email address on the left side of our BOTF website http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways

Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne

We found a wonderful farmers market, and could not wait to share it with you!

The Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne is an amazing experience. The atmosphere oozes warm community, and the music is wonderful. Not to mention the vendor/artisan market is located right at the lake...it can't get much better than that!

Remember to bring your market bags - I promise you will fill them up! The aroma of kettle corn will entice your senses, and you will find wonderful breads, baked goods, fresh prepared foods, meats, cheeses, produce, honey, fresh flowers and plants and so much more.

You will love the variety of the artisan vendors. So many quality items, including bath and body products, handmade knit shawls, handcrafted and vintage jewelry, vintage linens, baskets, organic baby clothes, tees, apparel...the list goes on and on.

If you are in the area, make sure to stop by the Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne on Saturdays, 8am-12 noon. (the vendors side is open an hour or two longer)

We will have our Brand of the Free display set up on Saturdays. Be sure to stop by and visit! ("like" us on our Facebook Page for updates on upcoming events)

http://www.restonfarmersmarket.com/ Info, vendors, directions, hours

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways

Sometimes it's as Simple as a Glass Jar

You never know what may spark your brain to connect with an idea. This is really a small idea...probably one that you already do. But for me it was an "enlightenment". And it involves glass jars. Lots of them.

I was reading through "50 Things you can Reuse" and #26 jumped out at me. "Reuse old glass containers" jarred me a little. You see, I am in dire need of storage containers, and I'm trying to stay away from the plastic ones. I made up my mind to look for some American made glass containers, but just haven't gotten around to it yet. But, wait, I already have lots of glass jars in my pantry, in the frig, and on my counter! In the past, when we used up the contents of the jars, we always threw the glass in the recycler container. Wouldn't it make more sense to reuse the jars? Since I buy lots of natural, organic foods from farmer's markets, I have many interesting styles, shapes, and sizes.

You would think I just won the lottery or something - I'm so excited about this! The reusing possibilities are endless. I'll just name a few of my ideas ...a really cute fresh flower vase for yourself or a gift, storage for rice, flour, sugar, cereal, etc. (make sure the jars are food safe, with airtight lids), mixing jar and storage for homemade salad dressings, mason jar beverage glasses (so cute), candy jar, reusable water container, picnic/lunch food and condiment containers, hardware (nails, screws, washers,etc) or office odds and ends such as paper clips, pens/pencils, personal items such as cotton balls, cotton swabs.

The main reason I am out of reusable plastic containers is that I love to send food home with people after entertaining. I usually don't get them back. So, you know I'll be filling those jars up with leftovers for friends and family, and I am sure they will reuse them even more. Yes!!!

Got more ideas? We're always listening!

Check out this site for some great "reusing" ideas http://www.squidoo.com/reuse-everythng


Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
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Supporting Eachother for a Better World

This morning, while I was enjoying my shower, a memory popped into my head. Not just any memory...but one of the most embarrassing moments of my life. It got me thinking....

Let me take you back a few years (well maybe more than a few!). My husband, Joe, was playing in a rock band, and I went out for the night to see him. I was very pregnant - probably 8 months. Needless to say, my belly was huge. Being a band member's wife, I was very aware that curious eyes would be on me, and I was not feeling especially attractive. The night went well until IT happened. After the last song of the night, I started to walk toward Joe, who was backstage. Somehow I tripped, and managed to slide across the dance floor on my pregnant belly. I mean, you could have spun me like a top! I don't remember anyone helping me - I pulled myself up, kept my head up high, and marched back to my husband, who after making sure I was ok, just laughed the whole thing off.

Now, looking back, I see that one of my biggest fears happened that night. I made a public fool of myself. But guess what - my world didn't fall apart. Time didn't stand still. Life went on. I fell, but pulled myself up, and became a stronger person in the process.

The reason I wanted to share this with you, is because of a trend I have been seeing lately. We've all been guilty of it at times. I'm seeing alot of finger pointing, finding fault because a person or company isn't "green enough", or maybe embarking on a mission or involved with a group or charity we don't understand.

When a person (or company) makes the decision to make changes or to actually DO something to try to help a situation, each small step is so meaningful. If they are on the wrong track and fall, instead of standing back and watching, criticizing, or laughing, we should take the opportunity to offer a hand to eachother. Each step that's taken to move forward, no matter how small, will work toward the greater good.

I know so many of you are trying hard to make a difference in the world. Making changes and taking action aren't easy. But know, even when you fall and all eyes are on you, you can pick yourself up and continue on. Even if it is only you. Stand tall and keep you head held high. The world will be better for it!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here for BOTF Facebook Page Conversation, fun, info and special offers

Soap Making With a Passion

Handmade, natural soap is definitely high on my list of favorite things. I love the way it makes me feel when I see an array of beautiful soaps, take in the fragrances, and finally make my selection so I can take some home to experience the sheer creaminess of the lather. Not many people fully understand my attraction to soap, but that changed one Sunday afternoon at the Bethesda Central Farm Market.

As my husband and I were walking through the market, Mystic Water Soap lured me over with a beautiful display. As I was touching and smelling all the soaps, the owner and soap maker, Michelle Burns, introduced herself. She was very friendly and helpful, and her passion for handmade, quality soaps shone through as she shared some information about her soaps, and also a little of her personal experiences.

Michelle has always been drawn to traditional handicrafts. She's led a very interesting life, from her early years living with her grandparents on their farm in upstate New York, to San Francisco, where she worked in a restaurant which led to her becoming a professional cook. She traveled the world, and spent most of her adult life living in Italy, where she learned to make soap from local olive oil. Michelle's cooking background influences her soap making - color, appearance, and interplay of scents are very important to her.

If you share my love of wonderful, handmade soaps (or know someone who does) make sure to check out Mystic Water Soap. You will find Natural, Bath, Sea Salt and Specialty soaps. She also offers bath and body products. You can purchase Mystic Water Soap products at markets, festivals, order directly by phone or email, or find them at Smile Herb Shop in College Park, MD.

http://www.mysticwatersoap.com/ Available products, contact and ordering info, festival/market schedule

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here for BOTF Facebook Page Conversation, fun, info and special offers

Hidden Treasure in Bethesda, MD

If you are like me and my husband, you're always on the lookout for that "gem" of a farmer's market. Well, we found a treasure at the Bethesda Central Farm Market.

What really makes this market special is the quality and uniqueness of each vendor. I don't think I have ever been to a farmer's market that had quite the spirit and selection that we found there. Founders, Mitch Berliner and Ann Brody Cove, were looking for "the place" where they could do their weekly food shopping in one location with high quality farm fresh produce, meats, poultry, cheeses, bread, prepared products, seafood, baked goods, and more, easy free parking, without hassle and frustration. That place did not exist closeby, so they decided to open their own site. Let me tell you - they succeeded in their endeavor!

Walking into the market Sunday morning, we were greeted by Banjer Dan playing some fun music for a gathering of children and their parents. It was a delight talking with him, and he even took out a moment to pose for a picture with me. Such fun! Hmm...maybe I should have asked for a banjo lesson!

It was a pleasure meeting Michelle Burns of "Mystic Water Soap". She definitely has a passion for old fashioned crafts and skills, especially soapmaking. Mystic Water Soap products are wonderful, and Michelle's customers (including me) appreciated the soap samples she sent home with us.

Next, we sauntered over to "Pitango Gelato" and all I can say is YUM! Chris Novashinski offered us samples of their flavors and we loved all of them - especially "Chocolat Noir" and "Mojito" sorbets, which we took home with us. We WILL be back for more!

Being that I love honey, I had to check out the Banner Bee Company. Andrea Langworthy offers a variety of honey, candles, bath products and so much more. She's more than happy to share her knowledge about beekeeping and honey. If you have any questions - just ask away! You'll enjoy talking with her.

By this time, the aroma of grilled sausage enticed us to visit the Meat Crafters booth, where Mitch Berliner tempted us with a few samples of delicious sausages and meats. There was an awesome chicken basil sausage that we will be picking up on Sunday.

It would be impossible to mention all the wonderful products and vendors at the Bethesda Central Farm Market. Do yourself a favor, and check it out!

For more info on the Market: http://www.bethesdacentralfarmmarket.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Spreading the Message

Saturday was beautiful and sunny, and we spent the day meeting fun and interesting people at the Eastern Market in DC. Athough it was a little chilly for my taste, you could just feel the joy of Spring in the air!

So many of you have stopped by our Brand of the Free booth and we enjoy getting to know you and hearing your thoughts. We love your comments and input on our graphic tees, ranging from a chuckle to belly laughs, or either LOVING the design or "just not getting it".

Our goal at Brand of the Free is to provide you with cool tee designs that communicate subtle messages that promote conversation. It is also important to us to offer you the choice to purchase American made, 100% organic cotton - a choice that is eco-friendly and supports the American worker. More and more we are hearing from you that these choices are important to you, too.

One mom that we met just touched my heart. Her daughter was having a slumber party, and she wanted to get some eco-friendly shirts for the girls. She purchased four "New Growth" shirts, each in an individual bag to give out. What a great idea! The girls will have soft, organic cotton tees to remember their sleepover, and they will be wearing a shirt with a positive message. It really made me think about how the message is getting out there - one person at a time, sharing an idea or thought about who they are and what they choose to support.

Please leave a comment, to let us know your thoughts of ways to get the message out.

Maybe you have your own ideas for shirts or events that you would like to discuss. Always feel free to email or call.

What's important to you? It's time to let the world know.


Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/



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Elegant and Bold Jewelry Designs

You know the feeling - you are aimlessly browsing through some accessories and jewelry, and then you spot the designs you just can't resist. Something connects with your spirit and you feel as though the designer knew you when she created the pieces.

That's how I felt when I discovered Andrea D'Ambrosia Designs. Meeting Andrea at Crystal Couture last week was a pleasure. She is bold and fun, and also has a very elegant fashion sense. Her multifaceted personality carries over to her gorgeous one of a kind jewelry designs, many of which incorporate vintage brooches.

I love the fact that Andrea weaves vintage brooches into her collection. What better way is there to recycle a vintage piece than to create a beautiful marriage of the old and new? The result is stunning.

A. D'Ambrosia Designs is located in Alexandria, VA. Did I tell you that I love to shop local?

Check out Andrea's jewelry and accessories: http://www.andreadambrosia.com/
Shop online: http://www.andreadambrosia.etsy.com/
Contact: andreadambrosia@yahoo.com

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Discover “The Slow Cook”

Wow-I just came across the most interesting website. My quest for information on “real” and nutritious food leads me in so many directions, that sometimes the whole subject could be overwhelming. At the same time, the compulsion forces me to keep digging for as many “nuggets” that I could find. Well, I happened upon a goldmine!

Ed Bruske, of “The Slow Cook” is a former reporter for the Washington Post who believes in “self-reliance, growing food close to home and political freedom for the residents of the District of Columbia”.

He really pulled me in with his Manifesto:

“Enough of food fads! Enough of food porn! Enough of celebrity chefs (except Mario Batali)! It’s time to take back control of the food we eat and the pace of our own lives. Things should grow and cook in their own time. Reject fast food! Reject waiting lists at over-hyped, outrageously expensive restaurants! Reject food out of season! Sit, eat drink. Enjoy good food made by caring hands. Enjoy food eaten slowly, in good company.”

Thanks to Ed Bruske for all of the wonderful information that he has made available on “The Slow Cook”. It will take a while for me to dig through all of the info there, including recommended cooks, links, food writers, movies, recent articles, and archived blogs, and I will enjoy every minute of it!


Check out “Tales from a D.C. School Kitchen”. Eye opening info! http://www.theslowcook.com/2010/01/21/tales-from-a-d-c-school-kitchen-part-three/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://brandofthefree.net/

Bask in the Sunshine of the Eastern Market

Looks like the sun will be shining on the Eastern Market DC this Saturday! It’s going to be a great day for strolling along, appreciating some long awaited warmth while perusing the produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods that the market has to offer. And who could resist checking out the latest offerings from very unique vendors – a vast array of jewelry, art, photography, hand made knitted hats and scarves, graphic tees, vintage linens and furniture…the list goes on and on.

It’s hard to fully describe the Eastern Market…it’s a warm, cozy combination of aromas, sights, sounds and some of the most interesting people around. We look forward to seeing some of our old friends. For those of you, who have never attended the Eastern Market, plan to come and see what you’ve been missing! We’ll be looking for you!

Eastern Market Info: http://www.easternmarketdc.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Fun Fashion at Crystal Couture 2010

Brand of the Free is SO looking forward to the 2010 Crystal Couture experience in Crystal City, VA, February 1-6! Last year we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, mingling with fashion designers, artists, fashionistas, models, and all of the interesting and wonderful people we met. We look forward to spending some time with good friends, and meeting many new ones!

Crystal Couture is a trendy, creative event, transforming some available retail space into a nightclub atmosphere. There’s lots of fun to go around, including runway shows, open bar, free snacks, free makeovers, local DJs, dancing, and more!

This year, Bianca Richardson, finalist from America’s Next Top Model will appear, and there will be a t-shirt and design competition, selected by audience vote.

Don’t miss Brand of the Free designs on the runway! It’s going to be a very cool week!

For more info: http://www.crystalcity.org/item/fun-fashion-comes-to-crystal-city-update

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/