Darphynia's Diary

This is going to be a bit of a ramble, so read on if you're interested.  Zero-waste has become more and more popular, which is wonderful in many ways.  That being said, there is a lot of controversy over the term.  There is no way to truly be zero-waste, so we've decided to adopt a low-waste lifestyle.  Yes, there are some things we still buy in packaging, mostly because we like to try a variety of products,, but we are far more conscious of what we buy, how products are packaged, how the packaging can be disposed, etc.  We can only do the best with what we have.  Another misconception is that you have to change everything at once.  All is takes is one small step to make a big impact on the whole.  If you choose to change your lifestyle, whether it's to start bringing your own straws, using reusable produce bags, cycling instead of diriving to destinations, etc. it will make a positive impact, even if you don't see it.  Also, don't be discour...

Happy summer!  We are doing a summer zero-waste giveaway with our friends at Ethique Beauty .  They are based in New Zealand and make wonderful, effective, natural, beauty products that are packaged plastic-free.  The boxes are compostable, which means they are truly zero-waste products!  In case you are wondering, yes, they have vegan products but not all are vegan.  Now, about the giveaway. Last time we did a giveaway it was for our Instagram followers.  This one is for all of you who follow us via Facebook .  This giveaway is focused on spreading awareness through zero-waste, eco-friendly, reusable products.  It also happens to be #plasticfreeJuly!  In light of that, we will be running this giveaway until July 31st @ 11:59pm PST.  The winner will be announced on August 5th. Items in this giveaway: 1.  Mason Jar 2.  Reusable Glass Straw (color will vary) 3.  Straw Cleaner Brush 4.  Ethique Solid Sunless...

Our friends at Ethique sent us some amazing zero-waste, sustainable, eco-friendly hair and body care.  Everything they offer comes in compostable/biodegradable packaging, making their products truly zero-waste!  And, a portion of profits go towards charities, such as The Orangutan Project and International Animal Rescue .  If only all companies were as transparent.  Now, on to the review. 1.   Glow Solid Deodorant in Lavender and Vanilla For those of you who are looking for a natural alternative to deodorant, or something new to try out, this block is worth a shot.  This deodorant kept me odor-free all day, and the scent sticks-- well, it did for me.  The soothing lavender and warm vanilla adds to its positives.  The bar also travels well.  I have an old square tin that I pop the bar into when I head to the gym or wherever I travel.  Some natural deodorants don't last.  I've used sticks, pastes, and unpackaged solids. ...

Whether you are going on a road trip, or flying the "friendly skies", the last thing you want is for your liquids to explode.  Okay, maybe that's a bit dramatic, but you know what I mean.  You have everything packed, and let's say you're taking a flight, which can be stressful enough.  You get to the screening area, and unless you have TSA Pre-Check, you will need to remove your liquids bag.  Unbeknownst to you, the shampoo cap came unscrewed, leaking product all over everything.  Just when things couldn't get worse, there is a small hole in the bag, and the shampoo has leeched out into the bin.  You're out of shampoo, have to wash out the bag and wash off its contents, and now you have a bin to clean.  There is a line of people behind you, and the feeling of holding people up just adds to the current stress level. Perhaps you've decided to go on a spontaneous road trip with some friends or family, and have placed your liquids in your bag.  ...

Starbucks announced last week that they will be removing plastic straws from their stores, completely, by 2020.  It is a small step to help reduce waste and (hopefully) help save the oceans.  If you have had any of their Nitro or Cold Foam beverages, you will have already experienced the new lid.  That lid, which has been labeled as a "sippy cup for adults" by the online community, is set to take the place of all plastic straw-using iced drinks with the exception of the Frappuccino.  Frapp purchasers will be given a straw made of sustainable material.  What sustainable material?  That remains to be seen.  And, for those of you wondering, you may request a sustainable straw no matter which iced drink you get.  They have also invested in working to create a "fully recyclable and compostable hot cup".  Hopefully the material they find is durable and won't take ages to full break down once it is tossed.  While we were incredibly happy to he...

I am currently writing an opinion piece on the Zero Waste Movement and minimalism.  Until then, I thought I would post up some of the things I have purchased that help control the chaos in my tiny space.  While I have some issues with zero (I prefer minimal) waste, there are some things to be said for it.  Here are some products you may be interested in: 1.   Facekins Image courtesy of Connie @ Facekins.

Monday:  The Beginning Today was a pretty easy day, since I've been working from home.  I haven't purchased anything, and have been eating in.  Conveniently, my leftovers were in a recyclable container, so there's that.  Starbucks has been calling (though I secretly long for a tea from Coffee Bean), but truth be told, I'm too comfortable to go.  Plus, they end up tossing a cup anyway since they always measure in the plastic cups, with few exceptions.  I normally get Youthberry tea, and when I take a jar, just have them fill it with room temperature water.