Tag: green

Controversy arose earlier this year when Stanford University published a study that suggested organic fruits and vegetables may not be as healthful as touted by the pro-organic community. Unfortunately this received quite a bit of superficial publicity from mainstream press.

However, this is an extremely important topic and is worth taking a deeper look into the reasons we need to go organic: for our families, our communities and our global environment. Here are six big reasons to go organic:

New Year’s resolutions are well intentioned, but we sometimes become overzealous with our goals. Instead of setting the bar impossibly high, resolve to make small changes this year. Be a kinder, freshened up, more polished version of yourself by focusing on the details. After all, it’s the little things that make up the big picture.

1. Go green in small steps.
Switch your bills to paperless. Carry a cloth hankie instead of using tissues. Forgo the receipt at the ATM or gas station.

The stunning architecture of Andis Wines’ 17,000-square-foot winery in the Shenandoah Valley serves as a beacon to wine lovers who appreciate the beauty of winemaking. Crafted from prefabricated metal with massive canopies, the design pays homage to the craft of modern wine production. Guests often stop near the tasting room entrance to admire the Barrel Stave Wall, engraved with the names of many wine club members. Inside, they learn that this fascinating wall, fabricated from old barrel staves, shades the north side of the building, keeping the winery cool all day.

The stunning architecture of Andis Wines’ 17,000-square-foot winery in the Shenandoah Valley serves as a beacon to wine lovers who appreciate the beauty of winemaking. Crafted from prefabricated metal with massive canopies, the design pays homage to the craft of modern wine production. Guests often stop near the tasting room entrance to admire the Barrel Stave Wall, engraved with the names of many wine club members.

Just 45 miles northeast of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge awaits Sonoma Valley: a rolling patchwork of scenic farms, parks, friendly communities, and vineyards.

Breathtakingly diverse, Sonoma Valley has earned its reputation as an authentic wine and travel destination for many good reasons. You’ll discover the reasons wherever you turn. Stop at the farm stands, farmers’ markets, and restaurants offering a bounty of local fresh produce, pungent olive oils, and artisan cheeses. Visit the state and regional parks and historic sites that tell the story of the valley’s rich history. Hike, bike, and breathe in the sweet country air. Chat with locals who gave Sonoma Valley its reputation as one of the nation’s proudest and friendliest places. And of course, sample the exquisite world-class wines that capture the aromas and flavors of this magical, yet genuine valley.

Dedicated to providing guests with an environment that is luxurious, serene, and decidedly green, Bardessono, in Yountville, California, leaves no stone unturned. The sleek 62-suite hotel offers a private retreat in the heart of the Napa Valley, complete with a world class restaurant and indulgent spa.

Bardessono has an exceptional ability to seamlessly blend the best interests of its guests and the planet together. Each guest room offers open living space, a sumptuous bathroom, gas fireplace, and private courtyard or balcony. Organic linens and bath products are featured, along with sensors that automatically open and close guest room blinds and turn off the lights when guests leave the room.

Most couples would love to buy "green" or "organic" foods, but choosing organic foods can be a pricey proposition. If you think your budget cannot afford 100 percent organic, here is some simple advice on making the most of your "green grocery" dollar.

Eat organic at the top of the food chain: Livestock eat pesticide-laden feed and are dosed with antibiotics and hormones, which all end up in the package at the super market. There is no way to remove or reduce the contaminants. Purchasing organic dairy, egg and meat products is a great place to begin.

Avoid the following unless they are organic: Pesticides levels vary in produce.