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How to Have a Sustainable Movie Night: Eco-Friendly Snacks, Recipes & Tips

March 19, 2025 0

There’s nothing better than cozying up for a sustainable movie night with your favorite people, snacks, and a feel-good film. But between plastic snack packaging, disposable cups, and excessive energy use, traditional movie nights can generate a surprising amount of waste.

The good news? You can reduce waste, enjoy delicious treats, and make your movie night more sustainable with just a few simple swaps! From eco-friendly snack options like Wiley Wallaby Licorice & Sweet Chaos Popcorn to homemade zero-waste treats, this guide will help you plan a sustainable movie night that’s better for you AND the planet. 🌎✨

♻️ Step 1: Choose Eco-Friendly Snacks

What’s a movie night without snacks? 🍿 Instead of grabbing conventional treats wrapped in single-use plastic, opt for sustainable, delicious alternatives that use better packaging and ingredients.

🍬 Wiley Wallaby Licorice & Drops

I’m a HUGE licorice fan, it’s my go-to candy! If you love chewy, flavorful licorice, you’ll love Wiley Wallaby! Their licorice is soft, chewy, and packed with flavor—plus, it comes in resealable, recyclable bags that help reduce waste.

🌿 Why It’s a Sustainable Choice:
✔️ Made with real ingredients (no high-fructose corn syrup!)
✔️ Resealable packaging reduces food waste
✔️ Available in mouthwatering flavors like Watermelon, Blueberry Pomegranate, and Classic Red

🍬 Try This: Pour a mix of Wiley Wallaby Licorice Drops and Wiley Wallaby licorice into a glass snack jar for a plastic-free, easy-to-share treat!

👉 View the collection.

🍿 Sweet Chaos Popcorn

What’s a movie without popcorn? If you want a better-for-you, non-GMO option, Sweet Chaos Popcorn is a must-try! Made with real ingredients and no artificial flavors, it’s a guilt-free, sustainably made snack that still satisfies your cravings.

🌿 Why It’s a Sustainable Choice:
✔️ Non-GMO popcorn popped in coconut oil
✔️ No artificial flavors or colors
✔️ Available in delicious flavors like Kettle Corn, White Cheddar, and Peanut Butter Cup

🍿 Try This: Serve a mixture of several different flavors of Sweet Chaos Popcorn in reusable snack bowls instead of single-use bags!

👉 View the collection.

🍪 Step 2: Make Your Own Zero-Waste Movie Treats

Making homemade snacks is not only fun, but it also reduces plastic packaging waste and lets you control the ingredients. Here are some easy, eco-friendly movie night recipes you can try!

🌱 DIY Chocolate-Covered Licorice Bites

🍫 What You Need:

  • 1 bag Wiley Wallaby Licorice (any flavor!)
  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips (Fair Trade, organic)
  • 1 tsp coconut oil
  • Sea salt or crushed nuts for topping

🥣 How to Make It:
1️⃣ Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl.
2️⃣ Dip Wiley Wallaby Licorice pieces into the chocolate, coating them halfway.
3️⃣ Sprinkle with sea salt or crushed nuts.
4️⃣ Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let harden in the fridge.
5️⃣ Enjoy with your movie! 🎬

🍯 DIY Sweet & Spicy Popcorn

🌽 What You Need:

  • 1 bag Sweet Chaos Kettle Corn
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

🥣 How to Make It:
1️⃣ In a small bowl, mix honey, cinnamon, and cayenne.
2️⃣ Warm the mixture slightly so it’s easy to drizzle.
3️⃣ Spread Sweet Chaos Popcorn on a baking sheet.
4️⃣ Drizzle the sweet & spicy mixture over the popcorn and toss to coat.
5️⃣ Bake for 5 minutes at 300°F, then let cool and enjoy!

🌿 Eco-Friendly Tip: Use a glass or stainless steel popcorn bowl instead of disposable ones.

🎥 Step 3: Make Your Movie Night Low-Waste & Cozy

Beyond snacks, here are a few extra tips to make your movie night more sustainable!

📽️ Reduce Energy Use with Smart Lighting

💡 Dim the lights or use LED bulbs to create a cozy theater feel while conserving energy.

🎟️ Pick an Eco-Friendly Movie

🎬 Watch a nature documentary like Our Planet (Netflix) or The Biggest Little Farm for an inspiring, sustainability-focused film.

🛋️ Use Reusables Instead of Disposables

🥤 Swap plastic cups for stainless steel tumblers.
🍽️ Use reusable plates & bowls instead of disposables.
🛋️ Snuggle up with organic cotton or recycled-fiber blankets.

🌿 Eco-Friendly Home Products:
♻️ Hydro Flask Tumblers – Insulated, reusable cups.
🛋️ Coyuchi Organic Blankets – Cozy, sustainable throws.

🌎 Make Every Movie Night a Green One!

Hosting a sustainable movie night is easier than you think! By choosing eco-friendly snacks, making zero-waste treats, and reducing energy use, you can enjoy your favorite films guilt-free while doing your part for the planet.

✨ Ready to plan your own low-waste movie night? Grab your Wiley Wallaby Licorice, Sweet Chaos Popcorn, and your favorite cozy blanket, and enjoy a greener way to watch movies! 🍿🎬♻️

💬 What’s your go-to sustainable movie night snack? Share your favorites in the comments!

Have a Lovely Weekend + A Few Green Things

March 14, 2025 0

Hello, Eco Friends! 🌿 The weekend is here, and I couldn’t be more excited to slow down, make homemade pizza, and cozy up with a movie. Spring is just around the corner, and I’m already dreaming of sunshine, garden-fresh greens, and eco-friendly outdoor adventures. But for now, it’s still a bit chilly—so we’re embracing the indoor vibes!

Eben is home this week for spring break! 🎉 He’s been busy doing observation hours for his Master’s degree, so we’ve only been catching up over dinner. Tonight, we’re taking it slow with homemade pizzas in our Gozney. I surprised Jayson with it as a holiday gift when we moved to the Banner Elk mountains, and let me tell you—it was so worth it! Living in the mountains means going out for dinner is a trek, and since we love pizza, bread, pretzels (you get it!), the Gozney has been a game-changer for our outdoor space. We use it all the time!

But before I unplug for the weekend (and dig into some pizza!), here are a few green things to inspire your days ahead:

🍃 Zero-Waste Lunchbox Inspo: We created a super fun March Madness promo (including photo shoot!) for ECOlunchbox! 🏀Check out our easy, delicious recipes for the Busy Mom MVP, Office Pro MVP, Road Trip Warrior MVP, and Student Champ MVP! Plus, you can grab 30% off the MVP collection while you’re there!

🍃 A Fun Read: Go Forth and Forgage – I’m loving this guide to foraging over 50 of the most common edible and medicinal North American mushrooms. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about wild mushrooms (or dream of foraging your own food), this book is a must! 🍄

🍃 DIY Green Cleaning Hack: Forget store-bought sprays—this 3-ingredient, all-natural cleaner will leave your home sparkling and toxin-free. (Hint: it involves lemon essential oil!)

🍃 The Perfect Pretzel Sandwich: We’ve worked with Smart School House for years, and we’re obsessed with this Pretzel Sandwich recipe! 🥨 Who knew pretzels could be the perfect base for a next-level sandwich?

🍃 How to Raise Eco-Conscious Kids: Want to teach your kids about sustainability in a fun, hands-on way? Here are some fun ways to get started.

Wishing you a restful, nature-filled weekend! Enjoy the little green moments and don’t forget to take a deep breath of that fresh, crisp air.

xo,
Sweet Greens 🌿

P.S. Follow along on Instagram (I started it back up!) for more behind-the-scenes from our weekend adventure!

The Ultimate Cooler Backpack for Hikers, RVers & Paddleboarders: Titan by Arctic Zone 24-Can Backpack Cooler

March 14, 2025 0

Since moving to Banner Elk, NC, my husband (Jayson) and I have embraced daily hiking as part of our lifestyle. Every morning we hit the trails for a 1.5 hour hike (which is my favorite part of the day) or a full-day trek through the Blue Ridge Mountains on the weekends. On our longer hikes, we always pack a picnic to enjoy along the way in a backpack cooler.

The same for our long paddleboarding trips or days on the beach, we always pack a lunch because we have no idea how long we’ll actually be gone! That’s where the Titan by Arctic Zone 24-Can Backpack Cooler has become an essential companion.

Why We Love the Titan by Arctic Zone Cooler Backpack

After testing countless cooler bags, we’ve found that this one checks all the boxes for our needs—especially for long hikes, RV trips, and paddleboarding adventures. Here’s why:

✅ Ice Pack Slots Keep Food Cold & Dry

One of my biggest pet peeves with traditional coolers is that ice melts and soaks everything inside. Even when we use ice packs, the condensation always gets on the food. The Titan cooler backpack solves this issue with dedicated slots for ice packs, keeping our food chilled without direct contact with ice or condensation. No more soggy sandwiches or wet snacks!

✅ Perfect for Long Hikes & Outdoor Adventures

When we head out on a long hike, we always bring this cooler along—unless the trail is especially treacherous. It does have some weight to it, especially when fully packed, so we skip it for ultra-steep or technical climbs. However, for moderate hikes or strolls with my father in law or Olive, our Frenchie, or where we plan to picnic with a view, it’s perfect! It really shines if we are taking it to the beach for the day.

✅ Great for RV Travel & Paddleboarding

We’re also keeping this cooler in our RV so it’s ready to grab when we travel. It’s perfect for paddleboarding—we can pack it with drinks and snacks, and it keeps everything cold for hours while we’re out on the water. The weight isn’t an issue when we are paddleboarding, because we let it ride on the board or when we’re sitting on the beach.

✅ Easy to Clean & Use

Spills happen (especially when packing homemade trail snacks!), but this cooler wipes clean effortlessly. It’s also designed for easy access, so we don’t have to dig around to grab what we need quickly. This was a huge issue with our Yeti Tote Soft Cooler. Even when we are paddleboarding, having to dig through the Yeti (while the closure wants to snap closed on my arm) is a pain! But we do absolutely love our Yeti Hard Cooler for road trips!

✅ Eco-Friendly Benefits

As someone who is passionate about sustainable living, I love that this cooler helps reduce waste and environmental impact in several ways:

  • No Disposable Ice Packs or Bags of Ice Needed – The built-in ice pack slots eliminate the need for single-use plastic ice bags, which often leak and create waste.
  • Long-Lasting & Reusable – Unlike cheap coolers that break after a season, this backpack is built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  • Leak-Proof & Easy to Clean – Since it’s easy to wipe clean, I don’t have to waste paper towels or chemical-heavy cleaners. A simple rinse is usually enough!
  • Encourages Packing Your Own Food – Instead of relying on store-bought snacks in plastic packaging, we can prep homemade meals and avoid unnecessary waste while hiking and traveling.

Small changes add up, and choosing durable, reusable gear like this helps us enjoy the outdoors without adding to landfill waste.

Is It the Right Cooler Backpack for You?

If you’re looking for a durable, well-insulated, and easy-to-use backpack cooler, the Titan by Arctic Zone is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for:
✔️ Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts – Great for long hikes with picnic stops, really shines when you are hanging out on the beach or fishing for the day!
✔️ RV Travelers – Compact enough to store and grab for day trips. It’s easier to grab and go then our Yeti hard cooler.
✔️ Paddleboarders & Beachgoers – Keeps food and drinks cold without messy ice packs.

While it’s a bit on the heavier side when fully packed, the comfort, insulation, and innovative design make it well worth it for everyday outdoor adventures.

Where to Buy the Titan by Arctic Zone Cooler Backpack

If you’re interested in adding this game-changing cooler backpack to your adventures, you can check it out here: Titan by Arctic Zone 24-Can Backpack Cooler.

Do you have a go-to cooler for hiking, travel, or paddleboarding? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your favorites! 🚶‍♀️⛰️🛶

St. Patrick’s Day Organic Rainbow Cookies Recipe: A Fun, Healthy Treat for Kids

March 10, 2025 1

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a fun, festive, and colorful treat? This holiday is full of whimsy, from four-leaf clovers and mischievous leprechauns to rainbows and pots of gold. If you’re looking for a creative way to bring a little magic into your home, these organic rainbow cookies are the perfect addition to your St. Patrick’s Day festivities!

Not only are they fun to make with kids, but they’re also packed with natural ingredients and vibrant colors made from vegetable-based food dyes. Plus, they pair perfectly with a warm mug of cocoa or milk!

How to Make Organic Rainbow Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 2 3/4 cups organic flour
  • 3/4 cup organic butter
  • 3 ounces organic cream cheese
  • 1 cup organic sugar
  • 1 organic egg
  • 1 teaspoon organic vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon organic baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Natural vegetable food colorants (for vibrant, chemical-free colors)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Beat the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, and sugar on medium speed until fluffy and well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 4: Color the Dough

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Add a few drops of natural vegetable colorants to each dough ball and knead gently until the colors are well distributed. (I aimed for yellow, red, blue, and green, though my blue turned into a turquoise—still fun and festive!)

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough balls in a moist towel and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for a richer flavor).

Step 6: Shape the Rainbow

Once chilled, take tablespoon-sized pieces from each dough ball and roll them into long logs. Arrange them in a rainbow shape, pressing gently so they hold together. Trim any excess.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rainbow-shaped cookie dough onto an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!

Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra festive touch, serve them on the rim of a mug filled with warm cocoa or milk.

Why You’ll Love These Organic Rainbow Cookies

✔ Kid-Friendly & Fun – A great activity to enjoy with little ones!
✔ Festive & Whimsical – Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
✔ Organic & Natural – Made with wholesome ingredients and natural food colorants.
✔ Deliciously Buttery & Soft – A melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience!

Make this St. Patrick’s Day extra special with these colorful, organic rainbow cookies. Whether you’re celebrating with your family or hosting a festive gathering, these treats are sure to bring smiles all around! 🌈🍀

Last Minute Holiday Gift: DIY Vegan Brownies In A Mason Jar

December 17, 2024 5

Hello, Friends! The holiday countdown is here! Have you finished your holiday shopping? Don’t forget your children’s teachers and the neighbors. You can still put together organic succulents in recycled paint-dipped cans or miniature Christmas Trees made using recycled wine corks. If you are going to be baking this weekend, you can throw together a few simple, vegan brownies in mason jars.

What you will need:

  • 2 cups organic flour
  • 1 cup organic carob chips
  • 1 tbsp organic baking powder
  • 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

You can either layer all of the ingredients separately in the jar or to save time mix all of the dry ingredients and top with the chocolate chips.

Attach a tag with the instructions to add:

  • 1/3 cup of your favorite neutral oil
  • 1 3/4 cup organic almond milk.

Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.

Enjoy!

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