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/

The Dirty Dozen: Top 12 Foods to Eat Organic

For those of you who know me, you are aware of the thought that goes into most everything I eat. I say "most" because I am not perfect, and my quest for clean, healthful food is sometimes overshadowed by a craving, or maybe making the decision to eat something - usually in a restaurant - that I know is laden with chemicals. The one thing I can share with you, is that I feel wonderful when eating natural, "clean" foods. When I make poor eating decisions, my body suffers for it, and I experience painful and frustrating symptoms. Needless to say, one of my goals in life is to make healthier food decisions, and to share anything I might learn along the way with those who tell me they are tired of "feeling like crap". What we eat is SO relevant to our overall health and the way we feel on a daily basis.

When trying to minimize exposure to toxic chemicals/pesticides, I believe it is always best to choose organic food. However, availablity and cost could limit choices. I've had so many friends ask me "Where do I start?" because it feels so overwhelming to them.

While doing some research, I came across TheDailyGreen and found an article that lists the top 12 foods to eat organic due to pesticide residue, and also 10 foods you don't have to buy organic. It's a good start to help you along your journey of wiser eating habits!

Take a moment to read some good info: The Dirty Dozen: Top 12 Foods to Eat Organic

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

Sofas Designed and Built in the USA

When looking for furniture that is made in the USA, the search can be very frustrating, so I feel the need to share my “find” with you! I happened to be checking out the Made in USA Blog, and came across a sofa that was featured. The blogger purchased a sofa some years back from The Sofa Company, and they were so happy with it, they decided to order another one. The sofa looked pretty cool, so I read on…

The Sofa Company was started by three college friends who wanted to make the process of purchasing a sofa more enjoyable. Their motto is “you design it, we build it” and they promised to continue to innovate the selections available. They have showrooms in Pasadena, Santa Monica, Downtown LA, and a factory clearance center in Commerce and tout confidently that they offer the largest selection of styles, sizes, fabrics, legs, and sofa beds in the city. They also offer out of state delivery.

Now for the really cool part…you select the style, fabric, color and accessories to build the sofa of your dreams! You are an integral part of the building process, so you end up with the exact sofa that you want – you do not have to compromise according to what a company might be stocking at the time.

Want to see more? Go to http://www.thesofaco.com/ and check them out!


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

Vapur Solves Bottled Water Dilemma

If you have been looking for an American made, reusable, BPA free water bottle, your search is over! Vapur offers you a unique choice, designed to fit virtually anywhere!

Vapur has covered all bases, with a flexible bottle design that stands upright when full, and can be rolled, folded or flattened when empty. You can tuck it in your purse, pocket, backpack, or wherever! Freeze it, to use as an ice pack, and then drink while it thaws. An attached carabiner allows for easy carry, and there is even a writable text area for personalization.

The idea is simple – that clean tap water is the best drinking water for you, your community, and the planet. Vapur is committed to raising awareness of the global water crisis and to empower people to make a difference through their own drinking choices, hopefully eliminating the need for bottled water.

For more info, check them out at http://www.vapur.us/

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