Organice Your Life®

Maybe you remember my blog from last week about the skin burn?

My sister (who is a doctor) saw my wound yesterday and got really angry with me! (I didn’t have it covered up and the crust was starting to peel off)

She said that if a burn is bigger than an old quarter coin (about 20mm) then you have to take extra care of it! And if it’s bigger than a 2 euro coin then you should go see a doctor! Well it was just slightly smaller than that!

My sister put some aloe vera burn relief gel on it and covered the wound with special burn bandage so it wouldn’t stick on the wound and it wouldn’t be infected. And she gave me a prescription for silversulfadiazine which is a disinfecting cream to prevent infections on open wounds like burns and to prevent scarring. And I should keep it covered up!

So therefore this update! DON’T BE A FOOL LIKE ME!

Check out burns properly! and if you have doubts?

GO SEE A DOCTOR!

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Who says you can't enjoy a nice cold drink with no calories in the Summer?

I say you can!

I make my own iced tea.

How?

Supersimple!

Boil water, make your favorite tea, and then let it cool off... Put it in the fridge. You can add fresh herbs for the flavor like fresh mint leaves. At the time of serving, you can add ice cubes. (or just a bit before) If you want to sweeten it, you can add agave syrup, honey, or liquid sugar( but that is not my favorite!)

It is very important in the heat especially, to stay hydrated, this is a good way to supply your body with water.

Enjoy!

My favorite is with fresh lemon juice added!

For more recipes, click here.

To leave your recipe, click here.

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The story of cosmetics!

Another inconvenient truth.

A skocking but important fact: the majority of beauty and skincare products we use are highly dangerous to our bodies and planet.

Tonight I had the privilege to attend a wonderful presentation about the hazards caused by unsupervised products and how the accumulation of their toxins can lead to some very unhappy endings.

Check it out as it is - funny, WiCkEd yet dead-serious.

Do yourself and your friends a favor, pass it along! Create a buzz and use your consumer voting power to make a difference - Buy OrGaNiC. Don't think twice.

* Check out the teaser below but then watch the full version by following the first link (it's only a few minutes longer but worth every second!)

Yes, as members of the fashion industry, Lonneke, myself and fellow OYL bloggers will start making a difference in this sector.

Just wait and see ;)

storyofstuff.org/cosmetics
www.storyofstuff.org
safecosmetics.org

I figured the title would be a good start. Hello, my name is Marius Hordijk and I will be joining the writing team of OYL.

For now, I will write about running. My 12 week training program, which started yesterday, is the toughest one I've done so far, and it will prepare me for the Utrecht Singelloop on Sunday September 26th, 2010. This is a 10 kilometer race in which I hope to break my record.

I've been running for almost two years now, and I can tell you all the cliché things you hear about it are all true: yes, it helps you relax. Yes, it helps you stay and feel healthy. And yes, running can be great for the mind. Yet most important of all: it is good fun.

I hope to be exploring these topics with you, and I hope to not bore you silly with talks of calories and minutes per kilometer. So there! I have introduced myself. Soon I'll tell you more of my training schedule, and if you feel tempted to join, don't hesitate to take your running shoes out of the closet and join in!

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Hi everyone, this is something I did not actually think of (and I'm sure I am not alone ;) )

A study showed that 12% of 84 tested reusable shopping bags contained traces of the harmful E. coli bacteria. What's worse, all bags with the exception of one contained traces of various other bacteria.

The researchers who tested the samples said that the levels of bacteria were high enough to kill. This is not good news......

So do yourself a favor and wash your eco-friendly bag regularly!

The results came as no surprise to the researchers who said that 97% of shoppers claimed to hardly ever - or never! - wash their reusable bag.

Something to think about....

* An important tip: try to separate egg and meat products from all other groceries at all times. Even better, choose one bag that is only used to carry eggs and animals products with.

www.newser.com/story/94337/your-planet-saving-grocery-bag-co

Eco Kingdom.

Making our homes friendlier to the environment shouldn't take more then a few simple steps.

My responsibility as a real-estate broker, who happens to love this planet, is to give you some tips to help you upgrade your apartment/home into an eco-friendly kingdom.

Step One: ENERGY - we should all support renewable energy, like wind power, green power or even solar power. These days, big companies like Con Edison give us easy and affordable solutions to make this change. Go to: http://www.conedsolutions.com/residential_green_power.html to get more information. Of course, there are many different companies who offer different programs to fit our needs. Please research the web to find the program that best fits you!

Step Two: RECYCLE - As citizens born into a consuming society, it is impossible for us not to create trash on a daily basis. But it doesn’t mean that we can’t do anything about it. Actually the solution is pretty simple. Get 3 trash bins and make one for paper, one for plastic and metal and one for biodegradable/compostable trash. Make sure to divide your trash into these 3 groups and always place it in the right bin. There are companies like Tiffany Carting Corps who take your trash and make sure to keep it divided until it gets to the right recycling plant. Go to http://tiffanycarting.com/index.html to get more information about it.

Step Three: WATER – We must use our water resources wisely, as it is one of the most important pillars of our planet! Don’t waste water! Use it wisely and with extra care. Personally I recommend installing water filtration systems to the general pipelines of your apartment and, if it turns out to be too expensive, you should start at least with your kitchen pipeline. Go to http://www.waterfiltercomparisons.com to compare and contrast various water filtration systems.

Step Four: ECO-FRIENDLY HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS – we all use many different products to ensure proper housekeeping. From cleaning products to personal hygiene products and also products to improve the lives of our favorite pets. Almost every product that we purchase can be greener and better for the environment. These days it is very common to find green solutions in almost every drugstore. You can also shop online in stores like http://www.greenhome.com.

Step Five: GREEN DESIGN – Personally, whenever I see a piece of furniture that I like laying on the side walk, I take it, clean and sanitize it, and use it for my personal use. If you don’t like used or second-hand furniture pieces you can shop for eco-friendly furniture. There are many stores to choose from, http://www.eco-furniture.com is a website where you can find some great options.

We can find endless ways to make our homes greener and with time I will give you more tips that I have found to be useful. As of now, you can start by applying the simple tips mentioned above.

Please do, and make a difference!

Eyal.

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We should think of our body as a miracle machine that does everything to keep us healthy and happy.

While you sleeping at night, your body is going thru detox process - it is getting rid of old toxins and waste that you receive thru polluted air, unclean water, unhealthy food ... You name it.

To me , the most important meal of the day is breakfast. How you will feel the whole day is simply depends on what you have first thing in the morning.

My advise to everyone is to start your day with glass of warm water and fresh squeezed lemon juice. Lemons are very alkalizing on your body, so you will have stronger immune system. Besides, lemons are very cleansing for your intestines.

Wait 30 min and then you can have your breakfast, It is very important to have fruit as a first food entering your body. Try to keep is simple - chose one fruit that you enjoy most and have it as much as you want till the lunch time.

My favorite breakfast is melon smoothie!

I take one cantaloupe melon - split it in half - spoon out the seeds. Then I take my blender and put ripe flesh into it. I blend everything well and thats it! Sometimes I add almond milk and it tastes even better!

Love, Val

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Seen any good movies lately? Well, I saw 'The imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus' yesterday, AWESOME! But before that I was invited (thanks to Lonneke) to see something more serious... Beautiful Tuschinski in Amsterdam hosted the premiere of a documentary called 'Sea the truth', a film made possible by political party 'Partij voor de Dieren' and the Nicolaas G. Pierson Foundation. So...early in the morning a large group of people gathered in front of the cinema. Mostly politicians and activists (I felt a little bit like an oddball fashionwise) that were interested to see the sequel to 'Meat the truth'.

Sea the truth describes the alarming situation concerning the fishing industry, focussing mainly on 2 aspects: the shocking decrease of fish in the oceans caused by commercial fishing, and the incredible amount of poison that is polluting the fish. Interviews with scientists and other experts are accompanied by amazing underwater footage of diver Dos Winkel, reminding us how wonderful ocean life is.

Here are some shocking 'highlights' according to the documentary:
- if we continue overfishing, there will be no fish left around 2048. That means we have about 40 years of sushi left (if we're lucky)...
- most commercial fish (except for haring) contain an enormous amount of mercury, much higher than science advices us to eat. And mercury poisoning does not seem fun...
- In the North Pacific Ocean there is a so-called 'island of plastic', (also known as 'plastic soup') a large area of litter in the middle of the ocean. This is obviously terrible for the ocean and it's contaminating the fish that we put in our mouths...
- to make fish oil, a mere 3-5% of the fish is used. And the omega 3 doesn't even come from the fish, it comes from algae.

'Sea the truth' was a good piece of information about an important part of the food industry. Even though the tone of the documentary was slightly moralistic (which always makes me a bit rebellious), I still found it very useful to hear the facts and figures. I thought the problem was well represented, and eye-opening in a way. What I absolutely missed was a 'ray of hope'. Having done research on behavioral change, I am convinced that people will only change if they believe there is a better way. I've never seen someone change their behavior when somebody told them what's wrong without offering a better alternative. The only message I heard in this documentary was: stop eating fish. I never eat meat and very rarely eat fish, but I almost felt like my mommy was scolding me! (and yes, as a result I had a sushi-fest a few days later)

Food is fuel, and what we eat affects our bodies as well as the earth. I myself have been experimenting with my diet this last year to see what makes me feel most healthy and energized, using mainly local products that cause the least waste for our planet. Having said that, I strongly believe that even though we should absolutely take this seriously, we should also feel like this is not a restriction, but rather a choice to live a healthier life. Telling people what to do is rarely effective, but informing people how to do things better for themselves and the planet might have a shot.

But, maybe I'm doing the same exact thing in this blog... ;) So, watch 'Sea the truth' and decide for yourself!

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No, I am not trying to promote drugs! In fact, oil made with hemp seeds is the most healthy and nutritious oil you can possibly add to your diet!

Everybody knows that green salad in your diet is very important. More greens you add to your daily intake the healthier and more energetic you will feel. Chlorophyll that all greens contain in abundance alkalizes your blood which is the key to beautiful skin, nail, hair and overall health!

Before I discovered Hemp Oil, I used to add olive oil in all my salads. I love olive oil and I still use it everyday in my recipes. But I wanted something different, something extra special to add to my meals.

I went to Whole Foods and bought bottle of Hemp Oil, out of curiosity. I've read that It's a much better alternative to Fish Oil, which is obviously not vegan and until fish oil supplements get to supermarket they turn rancid and will do more harm to your body then good.

Hempseed oil contains healthy ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acids. These fatty acids considered essential because they cannot be manufactured by the body. We must receive them from special foods such as hemp oil.

I star using Hemp Oil not just a s supplement ( 1 Tspoon a day) but also to add to my recipes. To me Hemp Oil has delicious nutty flavor. If you find taste to be too strong, mix it with olive oil half and half. Sometimes I put Hemp Oil in my smoothies and juices.

Store it in the fridge and watch out for expiration date - hemp oil is very sensitive and doesn't last long. Enjoy!

love, Val

nutiva.com

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Finally it’s Sunny! I’m so happy it is finally summertime!

Most people like me that work at an office find it very hard during the long months of fall, winter and spring to catch a nice daily doses of sunlight. In the wintermonths you arrive in the dark and leave in the evening when it’s dark again! So now whenever the weather starts to clear up and the sun shines it is lovely to be able to be outside A LOT!!!

It is actually very important to catch some sunlight everyday!

Since 2002 there has been a discovery by a professor at Brown University that in your eyes there are a type of photocells that regulate your biological clock.

For example: If you work in a place where there is no natural sunlight (like a mall) then it might be possible you don’t see any sunlight all day. This could result in feely sleepy and tired during the day and can’t sleep at night, because your body doesn’t know what time it is. It’s like creating your own jetlag!

If you then would make a habit out of catching some sunlight every morning without sunglasses. (Sunglasses block the light from coming into your eyes. So if it’s too bright it’s better to wear a cap instead)

This resets your clock every day and you don't have these problems anymore!

bms.brown.edu/mppb/faculty/facultypage.php?id=1100923707&typ

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Yesterday for mother’s day me and my mother went to Amsterdam together. We wanted to go to a quite new museum in Amsterdam called the Hermitage.

As you may (or may not) know the Hermitage in Russia is one of the BIGGEST museums in the world. With a lot of very important pieces of art! The Hermitage in Amsterdam is linked to this museum in Russia and is able to exhibit these wonderfull pieces too.

Right now there is a exhibition called “from Mattisse to Malevich”

It’s like a tour through art history from the painters that were inspired by van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin and started to paint not only nature but painted for the art of painting itself.

That resulted in:

Flat surfaces and no perspective and bright colors like in Matisse paintings
in more abstract kubism (but still recognizable images) like Picasso
or more emotional like Kandinsky.

The paintings were in more wild brushstrokes and bright colors. The movement itself was called fauvism (fauve = wild in French)

A few weeks ago I saw on TV a VERY proud museum director that went to St Petersburg in Russia and was able to borrow Matisse’s “Dance” from the Russian Hermitage.(The painting voted as most important painting of the 20^th century, because it is seen as the start of modern art) They had help from KLM (Dutch royal airlines) which send the biggest airplane that has ever landed in st. Petersburg before, to be able to send this HUGE painting to the Netherlands.

Immediately I texted my mother to ask her when will we go???

Yesterday was the last day that “Dance” was able for sighting and this painting will be send back to Russia early. So we were happy to be in time to see it!

But although this was the most important painting (and the biggest), I think that without this painting the exhibition is still very much worth the visit. I found it amazing to be able to see all these masterpieces all in one museum and it took me at least three hours to see them all

But not only that!

There was a complete story in the order of the paintings you had to watch them. It starts with Matisse, follows the complete story of him, Picasso, Kandinsky and other famous painters of that age like Van Dongen, De Vlaminck, Derain, Marquet etc. and ends with a painting of Malevich which is a painted black square on a white surface.

This is where the realism completely ends and abstract art starts!

Hopefully there will be an amazing exhibition like this one about that age too!

Then I’m sure I will visit it again!

www.hermitage.nl/en/tentoonstellingen/matisse_tot_malevich/i
www.hermitage.nl/en/tentoonstellingen/matisse_tot_malevich/h

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27-04-2010 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
REN Clean Skincare
Tags: clean | skincare | bio | natural | ren |

I was on a shoot the other day and the production team was kind enough to hand all models a beautiful welcome package which included products by a company called REN Clean Skincare.

Intrigued - and never having heard of the name before - I decided to do some research and look up some of the ingredients.

Very important OYL fans!

First - ALWAYS check the ingredients list. It is very common for companies to practice something called "greenwashing" these days. This means that companies will use labels such as "green" "all-natural" and "organic" to mislead you and make you think that their products have 100% integrity.

It couldn't be further from the truth. "Natural" these days is one of the most misleading labels. And when it comes to organic, look for a certifying label such as USDA or Ecocert. These will reassure you that the product you are holding in your hands meets 100% of the requirements.

Coming back to REN, I was astonished to find that all of their ingredients come from natural sources (and I mean natural, such as flower extracts, coconut oil, essential oils etc.), their packaging is made from 100% recycled fibre and their ink is 100% vegetable.

Pretty impressive.

Now, when surfing their site (they have quite some amazing products) nowhere do I see the word "organic". Hmmm..... well, at least they are being honest.

What I do come across though is the following list:

NO petrochemicals, sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrance, synthetic colours, T.E.A., D.E.A., glycols, silicones, PEGs et AL

NO animal testing

....

So, minus the missing "organic" I am very much impressed by REN. Next up, to actually TRY their products!
www.renskincare.com

21-04-2010 | Posted by: Mallory June
Figure out what makes you happy!
Tags: talent | drawing | baking | happy |

Take on a hobby and pursue your talents!

Do something you really enjoy and are good at! Sometimes it takes a long time to really figure out what your passion and talent is but I believe everyone has something that makes them unique and sets them apart from everybody else.

I always knew I had a few things I liked to do and felt that I was ok at, but there were certain things I liked to do more than others.

One thing I know I really enjoy and according to others I am good at is cooking and baking, I enjoy making people happy and taking care of them by serving them a delicious home made meal or treat.

I like to throw dinner parties for my friends. I make things that aren't too difficult and not too expensive but are delicious and satisfying.

I think tomorrow night at my next dinner party I'll make a large whole wheat pizza with all sorts of toppings on it. Something for everyone.

I feel good about myself when I get complimented on my food, something I did that I enjoyed to make other people happy.

One thing I discovered I really love to do and feel like I need to do more of is drawing portraits of people. When I do have the time and feel creative I have my friends or family sit still for me for about 15 minutes and I sketch their faces.

Maybe in the summer I'll go to central park and sketch people who want a drawing of themselves!

Its important to find out what things you like to do outside of your work, be creative and have fun!

Tomorrow is One Day Without Shoes!

Originated by TOMS, the shoe company that rules by the quote: “One for One”, this initiative makes us walk bare feet one day in a year,on April 8th, to experience what a lot of kids worldwide have to deal with every single day of there life: walking bare feet. Because of walking bare feet, these kids are susceptible to dangerous diseases that they get through walking in uneven and polluted soils, and also because they get cuts and scrapes when not wearing shoes . Most of these diseases are 100% preventable by wearing shoes. The life's fundamentals are food, clean water AND shoes. For hygiene it is so important to wear shoes.

One for One means that TOMS will supply a pair of shoes to people in need somewhere on the planet, when you buy a pair of shoes. This is a sustainable concept, as the Goodwill is paid by the profits made by selling shoes.
.
I will do a Profile on TOMS shoes and founder/ head shoe giver Blake Mycoskie, as I had the privilege to meet him in person. You will find it on organiceyourlife.com in the future!

For now: Will you walk bare feet tomorrow, Just like Kristen Bell and the Jonas Brothers?

www.onedaywithoutshoes.com
www.toms.com

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Maybe you’ve seen in the news about the Chinese ship that has banked on the Great Barrier Reef.
Already tons of oil has been spilled in the ocean, but help-organisations rushed to the site and have removed the oil from the sea by chemicals.
Now they are pumping the ship empty so no more oil will spill in the ocean
So much effort is being done to keep the environmental impact as low as possible.

Therefore I thought this would be a good moment to explain more about the Great Barrier Reef and why its existence is of great value for the earth.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest reef system composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,600 kilometers (1,600 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 sq mi). The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in northeast Australia.
The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from outer space and is the world's biggest single structure made by living organisms.
This reef was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. CNN labeled it one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Great Barrier Reef supports a diversity of life, including many vulnerable or endangered species, some of which may be endemic to the reef system
There are an estimated 1,900 species of fish, approximately 350 species of hard-reef-building corals, more than 4,000 mollusk species, and over 400 species of sponge. In addition, these reefs harbor important nesting sites for numerous seabird species.
Found within this ecosystem are unique habitats and breeding sites for the largest populations of Dugongs, and Saltwater crocodiles.
Also found are Green sea turtles, Flatback turtles, Hawksbill sea turtles, Leatherback sea turtles, and Olive ridley turtles.

Other species of interest include the Greater crested tern, Black cod, Humpback whale, Minke whale, Killer whale, Bottlenose dolphin, Irrawaddy river dolphin, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, and the Spinner dolphin.

A large part of the reef is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which helps to limit the impact of human use, such as fishing and tourism. Other environmental pressures on the reef and its ecosystem include runoff, climate change accompanied by mass coral bleaching, and cyclic population outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish.
The Great Barrier Reef has long been known to and used by the Aboriginal Australian and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and is an important part of local groups' cultures and spirituality.

So much life on one place!
It’s sure that this place is really special!

Source: Wikipedia and National Geographic

whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31&id_site=154

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03-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Happy Easter!
Tags: easter | volunteer | soup kitchen | lunch break | goodwill |

I hope you are going to celebrate with friends, family or your big love!

It's nice to paint Easter eggs, let alone eat them, and just celebrating what Easter stands for ( check the link to read all about it). We also eat a lot of delicious foods, but most important is that we are together with people that care....

Getting back to eating delicious foods: Some people don't have anything to eat, not during Easter, not during another day of the week. Thankfully there are Soup Kitchens all over the world, to help these people in their basic necessities. I am going to volunteer at a soup kitchen: Lunch Break in Redbank, New Jersey, and will work on things like putting together food baskets for those who need it. I will tell you all about my experiences on this blog later. I am very excited!

So enjoy Easter, and if you ever have time, go help out at one of the goodwill organizations in your neighborhood. It's fun, and you help people tremendously!

Happy Easter!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter
www.lunchbreak.org

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30-03-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Candle Cafe
Tags: candle | cafe | nyc | restaurant | vegan |

....Just had an amazing dinner by myself at Candle Cafe uptown NYC.

I love having dinner by myself once a while, just reading a book and eating good food, and it was so good!

I had the daily special Seitan with mashed potatoe, on top of sauteed greens and covered in spicy tomatosauce and avocado dip. Delicious! ( picture on the left).

This restaurant is great, everybody is friendly, and most important: everything is vegan!

And trust me: you don't miss a thing, because all these veggies and vegan dishes are the best!

I have to go back soon....
www.candlecafe.com

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29-03-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Play a game for fun and for your brain!
Tags: games | board | online | blackberry | yathzee |

I find them still amazing: The old board games!

The old board games especially look great. I love the design of the games of the 70's and the 80's. The time when internet was not used throughout the world, and families spend more time together to play games at night....

My boyfriend and I play Yathzee a lot with friends. You just need 5 dice and a paper to write down your score, That's It! It does not cost much and gives you a lot of joy.

When I was younger I always played the game of Life. Trying to collect as many babies as possible (you would get money for that) and get the best job and best retirement fund. It was fun! Although my real life looks a bit different than what I got when I played it.

These days we play more games online, in a virtual world. Playing poker online is a favorite, I play online too sometimes, but nothing beats the board games. Or making a puzzle from Jigsaw, or doing crosswordpuzzles in magazines.

Playing games is supposedly good for your brain too. I have heard that if you solve a crossword puzzle every night before you go to bed , it helps train your brain. Still have to find scientific proof for that, but that's what I heard when I grew up. So I do that, or I play a game online once a while.

I am kind of addicted to Mahjongcon online. It is so fun! Or when I have to wait a long time at the airport, I play a game on my Blackberry. Poker or Brickbreaker, until I have a high score.

They are good for spending your time, or to train your brain, but what I find most important is that it is fun! Especially when you play games with friends or family. Since a lot of you go home for Easter, maybe play a game with your loved ones?

Dust off the board games and play a game!
www.gamesgames.com/mahjongcon.html
www.boardgames.com
www.gamesforthebrain.com

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Today international think-tank Ethisphere Institute released a list of 2010 World’s Most Ethical Companies.
They’ve made these lists since 2007, and they plan to continue to make one every year.

Creating this years’ list they kept an eye on innovation, health, safety, sustainability, control and respect.
And also important is whether the company is in their branch is a leading company, so it can create a good example for other companies to follow.

For this years’ edition about 3000 companies were researched.
For cosmetics the only company that got selected to be on the list was L’Oréal.
The brand was given this honor because of their Code of Business Ethics (2000) and appointing an ethics director in 2007 assigned to these tasks, and they are a world market leader.

Other famous brands are NIKE, GAP, Starbucks, Mattel, IKEA, Philips and Rabobank.

Check out the full list of companies on the website of Ethisphere.
Too bad there isn’t an explanation per company why they were added onto the list, it made me very curious about them.

www.ethisphere.com/wme2010

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11-03-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Horse Carriages should stay in NYC??
Tags: new york | city | nyc | horse | carriages |

"On Friday March 12th, the New York City Council’s Consumer Affairs Committee is holding a public hearing on several horse carriage bills that have just been introduced in the Council. Among them is the NYCLASS bill which NYLHV has been working on for well over a year, Intro. 86, which was introduced this week by Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. The NYCLASS bill seeks to phase out the horse carriages over three years and replace them with the 21st Century eco-friendly, horseless carriage. This new industry offers the current horse carriage drivers high paying union jobs, establishes accountability measures to ensure a safe and fair industry, makes the City a leader in eco-tourism, and most importantly retires the current carriage horses to farms and sanctuaries where they can live out their remaining days in dignity."

Read more on the site below.

I love horses! And I want them to get the best care they can get! I think the horses in New York City don't belong there, and the idea of eco friendly cars sounds very good to me. The traffic has increased tremendously in NYC the past decades. Horses now are in danger every day. As they are human beings, it is possible they still spook. Even the best trained horses it can happen. And the cars drive so fast here, the pollution, and that they simply don't have room to play freely, I think that it is not smart to have living creatures in a city like New York City. If you don't have the space or the surroundings to properly take care of a horse, don't have one! I am not against carriage horses, I am against carriage horses in NYC, it is not a safe place! I have seen almost- collisions many times in NYC. And the horses don't have proper safe stables. the ASPCA also fights for the horses for over 100 years. So let the carriage horses retire and bring them to a nice place where they can live the rest of their lives well. They have worked hard all their lives. They deserve it! I will for sure donate money to the sanctuary they go to ( hopefully) soon!

Take action yourself if you have an opinion on this! and support ASPCA in their fight for better living conditions for all animals, including these carriage horses.
app.etapestry.com/prod/viewEmailAsPage.do?key=214f57783cac17
www.banhdc.org
www.animallawcoalition.com/animal-cruelty/article/278

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02-03-2010 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
How to live to be a 100!
Tags: maruja | 100 | healthy | lifestyle | blue zones |

Referring to my last blog, I want to get a little more into one specific subject. Dan Buettner did a very interesting research on how to live a healthy and long life. He found out there are a few areas that he calls 'blue zones', where people live to be over a hundred years old in a measurably better way! Wow, who doesn't want that?? Since my sweet grandmother lived to be 98 and I myself am half Costarican (one of the blue zones) I had hoped I was blessed with great genes that made me set for an awesome 100+ life. But...genes are only about 10% responsibe! So....what's the secret of the 'blue zoners'?

1. They move naturally:
None of the people he interviewed went to the gym. None! Instead, their lives were naturally filled with movement. They gardened, worked on a farm, or walked to the vineyard down the mountain every day. Also, when they did 'exercise', it was only for fun. Whether it was dancing, playing with the kids, sailing or playing soccer, they purely did it out of enjoyment.

2. They have the 'right' outlook:
Work to live, instead of living to work. Also, one of the most important things he found was a strong sense of purpose, having a reason to get out of bed each day and that makes you truly enthousiastic. And...no matter how busy the day is, always have at least one moment of peace and relaxation every day!

3. They eat wisely:
Their diets were mainly plant-based, so a lot of vegetables and fruit were consumed. Meat and processed food were an exception! Moderation seemed to be a key word, many of them ate about 80% of what they initially wanted to eat. We have a saying that goes: the eyes are bigger than the stomach, which is so true! Instead of piling up the food on their plate, they took a little less. It takes a little while for the brain to realize the stomach is full, so I personally thought this was a very good idea. But don't think these ladies and gents were depriving themselves of some fun! A couple of glasses of red wine per day turned out be very common.

4. They belong to the 'right' tribe
A strong circle of family and friends, and a sense of belonging proved to be very critical. Often, the 100+ people lived with their children and grandchildren. It kept them young and gave them a sense of importance. Giving life advice to a grandchild is a win-win situation, good for everybody. For some guidance of their own, they turned to a higher power. They all had strong religious or spiritual belief system that made them resilient and grateful.

Interesting stuff, right? Check out the links for some more information.
http://www.bluezones.com
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/dan_buettner_how_to_live_
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Buettner

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22-02-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Ben & Jerry's icecream going Fair Trade!!
Tags: ben & jerry | icecream | fair trade |

Ben & Jerry's icecream are trying to make a difference in the world for years. That change they try to make with their foundation, or by buying cagefree eggs. or trying to give the cows who give milk, good living conditions.

Recycling is also important, and to reduce their carbon footprint, that's something they also work on.

Now they just released a Press release, that says that from 2013 on, all products are totally Fair Trade Certified. That means they have to work it out with about 27000 farmers. That's a lot of work but founders Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield find it important that the people who produce their products, get their fair share.

My favorite Ben & Jerry's Icecream is Chubby Hubby ( What a name!) with Fudge Covered Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels in Vanilla Malt Ice Cream Rippled with Fudge & Peanut Butter. A mouthful!

So if you have a sweet tooth, or are going to pig out on sweets, choose a product from a company that works towards a happier world!
www.benjerry.com

10-12-2009 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
Less stress, more mindfulness
Tags: mindful | balance | stress | yourself | maruja |

I'm in sunny Miami with Lonneke, it's lovely out here! So relaxing! It made me re-realize something very important (in between soaking up the sun, going for a swim and having amazing food): always stay mindful! Mindfulness has become a popular, trendy term with a new agey feel, but it is actually quite simply being aware of your thoughts, actions and feelings. For some reason it sounds easier than it is, though... We live in a society where we feel pressured to be productive 24/7, which causes so much stress. Even lying at the pool here, underneath the bluest sky and the most beautiful view you have ever seen, I feel compelled to check my e-mail every 10 minutes and I have to force myself to just enjoy the moment. How crazy is that!

Another example: I have given up eating in front of the tv a long time ago (or watching tv, for that matter), but now I catch myself doing other things instead (check my e-mail, make to do lists, write several hit albums). Being away from my regular work environment reminds me to consciously eat my breakfast, lunch and dinner. Today, I had Greek yoghurt with fruit and granola. It was so good! I actually tasted each bite, the sweetness of the banana, the crunchiness of the granola. Needless to say, if we'd all eat this way (me included) we would eat less AND be more fulfilled afterwards. Besides, when you truly taste your food, you probably only want to have good, fresh ingredients instead of greasy burgers and oversalted fries.

This seems a little bit yesterday's news, but there is a big difference in knowing the path and walking it. I personally don't know many people who actually live perfectly balanced. So let's all pretend we're in Miami, looking out over the water, enjoying the sun and remind ourselves to be mindful, especially with our busy schedules! It doesn't take any time, just awareness.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mindfulness

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02-12-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Paul McCartney is promoting Vegetarianism in the European Union
Tags: paul mccartney | vegetarianism | european union |

I read this following article on maccablog.co.uk: "Paul McCartney and Rajendra Pachauri are calling on mayors and other policy makers to tackle the overconsumption of meat in western countries. In a letter, they point out the relationship between meat and climate change and suggest that governments develop initiatives to raise awareness about the issue among their citizens. The ex-Beatle and the IPCC chairman will also address the European Parliament in an event called ‘Less Meat = Less Heat’, on December 3.

In the letter, McCartney and Pachauri point out that the livestock sector is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, one of the most powerful weapons against climate change may very well be… our fork. However, McCartney and Pachauri also state that the efforts of individuals, however important, are limited, and that ‘it is also the responsibility of governments and industries to ensure that sustainable alternatives like plant-based products are widely available and affordable.’ They list a number of initiatives that governments have taken, such as the weekly veggie day campaigns in Ghent and Hasselt (Belgium), São Paulo (Brazil) and the Meat Free Monday and Meatless Monday campaigns in the UK and the US respectively.

On December 3, McCartney and Pachauri will address the European Parliament on the topic of ‘Less Meat = Less Heat’. Four days before the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, the event reflects a perception that climate change needs to be addressed at all levels – especially individual but also at local, regional, national, across Europe and worldwide.

According to the FAO, the livestock sector is in the top three causes of any major environmental problem, including land degradation, climate change and air pollution, water shortage and water pollution and loss of biodiversity. Eating less meat (and other animal products) is not only healthy for our planet, but also for our body. A WHO study has shown that a decrease in saturated fat by just one percent would result in about 13.000 less deaths of cardiovascular disease in Europe per year. And last week, a new study in the Lancet pointed out that a reduction of livestock production with 30% might decrease the number of premature deaths by heart disease by 17%."

I really like it that the whole McCartney family is working so hard on stopping animal cruelty and a better environment!

Source: Categorynet.com/Maccablog.co.uk.

www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jzc3oulh3mmDKPGE
www.paulmccartney.com/

20-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Delta is doing good!
Tags: delta | airlines | vegetarian | food |

American airline companies are not known around the world for their amazing service onboard. But it is nice to see an american airline to try to do better.

Since merging with Northwest, Delta seems to walk a different path when it comes to service. It is getting better and that's a good thing! I can only tell it from my experience recently.

The past years after 9-11 it has been hard for the airline industry, in America especially. People seem to only complain, but I want to cheer on an airline if it is trying to do something better!

I flew yesterday from Paris to Atlanta and then onto Miami, and a few things i noticed. For instance, when we arrived at the gate, we were thanked by our own captain Wigglesworth ( I love that name and I hope I spelled it correctly) It gives a face to the flight, as normally you just hear, but not really see who is steering the wheel, and who in fact has your life in his or her hands.

The other thing I noticed, was not the familiar question in Economy Class:" Chicken or Beef?" which I always answer "No" as I do not eat meat. But this time it was: " Chicken, pasta, or VEGETARIAN?"
I am shocked. Did I hear that right? A vegetarian option? I must try!

So I did and it was great! Brown rice, steamed broccoli, a bean stew and zucchini stew. I was very happy and I hope Delta continues this ( and other airlines will follow)

Eating on planes is very tricky. Your stomach is already small, but it gets smaller up 30000 feet. So it is important to eat light, which is difficult with the heavy pasta's or beef they give you. And not so healthy either!

So I suggest bringing your own healthy snacks aboard. Drink a lot of water , no alcohol and if an occasion like this happens, where they offer vegetarian, try it!
You can also let the airline know you prefer vegetarian food when you book your ticket.

Keep giving us healthy food options, Delta!

news.delta.com/
www.delta.com

17-11-2009 | Posted by: Nancy Bommel
Eagle, mountain and warrior
Tags: kids | yoga | children | yoga-poses |

I find it surprising to see that my daughters are riding in a rollercoaster through kidsland.
First there’s this stress at school. Teachers send you emails with word exercises with the request to practice them with your kids at home as they don’t have the time to do this at school. Or the remark that the requested reading level will not be achieved if parents don’t help to read in class. Sorry, but I cannot remember my parents being asked to join the teachers force to help when I was in primary school! Nevertheless I volunteered for Mother Reads on Wednesday , cause this is the way things seem to work these days. I’m far from happy with it.
But there’s also my own part in making their life so busy. Cause I want them to sport, exercising is important for my little indians too. So I drive them from tennis classes to horse riding, from tennis classes to judo and again to tennis classes as one is more sporty than the other.
And I haven’t mentionned their manga drawing lessons...Hardly 9 and 8 years old and they just seem to organize a playdate with their friends in the beginning of the week. They’re busy girls.
So I decided to do what I did to bring more relaxation into my life. I marked a relax day in their agenda: time for parent-child yoga!
Kids yoga is a way for children to escape from all the obligations. The only thing they have to do is be themselves. In a playful way they learn how to breath better so stress is flowing away and they are more at ease. By doing the yoga exercises they are more aware of the way their body works. They took them on a real adventure where they met all kinds of animals, mountains, trees and warriors. For an hour they forgot about their daily life and they were having so much fun. Me too, because it’s so nice to do yoga together.
Mom and daugthers, away from all expectations. Namaste!

www.amazon.com/Kids-Yoga
www.anmolmehta.com

14-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
" 400 calories more a day"
Tags: calories |

The Daily Mail came out with an interesting article:

Researchers say they found that people can eat up to 16% more a day in calories, than previously thought.

We are being told that the maximum intake a day is 2000 calories for a woman, and 2500 calories for a man.

Not anymore, if we can believe these researchers. They say the new numbers come from better understanding activity levels in humans.

I don't understand... It seems more and more people are getting obese every year. That really means we should really eat less and move more... right?

Read the article below, it is quite interesting!

I think it is important to look at the quality of the calories, as calories from a cheese burger still seem to be not as good for you as calories from a salad with fresh vegetables and avocado.....

To be continued!

www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1227743/Its-official--eat-s

10-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Organice Your documents
Tags: organice | google | documents |

Nothing is worse than losing all your important information!

Like I did last week: My Mac crashed.

It is not only that I cannot regularly update this website ( I have to find a computer where I can), but also, all my important information is now gone!

I did backup some of it on an external hard drive, which is a good option, but those can crash too...

What I found is the best solution, is to save documents that I need in the future, or that I am working on, online!

Google documents is a great way to online work on documents, order them, and save them.
Also, you can invite people to read the documents, and you can also decide who can work on them or not!

There are many other, virtual places where you can save your information.
Like facebook saves your friends, thoughts, pictures and words, Flickr saves your pictures, you can basically save anything! ( and have the world see it if you decide too!)

Google documents seems pretty save, and I use it too. Try it out, if you are doing your homework, or making a report that someone has to O.K. Or if you ( with someone) are writing a book.

Online you can find more places that are suitable for every bit of information you like to be saved, secretly or for everyone to see!
www.google.com/google-d-s/intl/en/tour3.html

19-10-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Vienna Nuclear talks.
Tags: vienna | iran | nuclear | talks |

I am again in a city, when an important political event is going on. I am in Vienna to work for 5 days straight, and after explore this amazing city with great history. And at the same time ther are talks about the nuclear plans of Iran. Pretty Important I should say?

This is what the New York Times wrote:

"VIENNA — Iran on Monday opened its nuclear talks with the United States, Russia and France with veiled threats that it could back away from an agreement reached this month to ship more than three-quarters of its stockpile of nuclear fuel out of the country, unless the West accedes to Iranian demands for new fuel.

Related
Times Topics: Iran's Nuclear Program

The threats, broadcast on Iranian television and in statements from the country’s atomic energy organization, may have simply been negotiating tactics ahead of negotiations that started in Vienna, the city that saw so many Cold War nuclear talks between the United States and the Soviet Union.

In the runup to the talks, President Obama’s aides said the talks, while advertised as a meeting of technical experts about a proposal to ship three-quarters of Iran’s nuclear fuel out of the country for conversion into a form that could be useful in a medical research reactor, would take on far more importance.

“By the end of these next two days,” one senior administration official in Washington said, “we’ll know if the Iranians are serious and whether we have time” to pursue further diplomacy with Iran without fearing that it could race ahead to produce a weapon.

If Iran carries through on what the European nations said was its commitment on Oct. 1 to temporarily send its nuclear fuel to Russia and France, Washington will be able to claim that its diplomacy reduced the threat of an Iranian “nuclear breakout,” a sudden race to convert reactor fuel into bomb fuel.

Iran’s total known stockpile of fuel amounts to enough for one to two bombs, if it were further enriched. If it exports that fuel for further refinement abroad, experts believe it could not replace it for another year.

But in recent days the Iranians have repeatedly suggested that they may not ship the fuel out of the country at all, and would demand that the West sell it new fuel for its research reactor in Tehran, which is used largely for medical purposes. That would leave the existing fuel in the country, a situation that the United States, Europe and Israel has said is too dangerous, given Iran’s history of hiding nuclear activity from international inspectors.

“The talks will be a test of the sincerity of those countries,” Iranian Atomic Energy Organization spokesman Ali Sharisdian said. “Should talks fail or sellers refuse to provide Iran with its required fuel, Iran will enrich uranium to the 20 percent level needed itself,” he said.

So far Iran is not known to have enriched fuel beyond 5 percent, the level needed for reactors. Enrichment at 90 percent or more is needed for a sophisticated weapon.

Next Sunday the International Atomic Energy Association, the United Nations nuclear watchdog agency that is playing host to the talks here, is also supposed to begin inspecting Iran’s just-revealed enrichment center at Qum, beneath a mountain on an Iranian revolutionary guard site."

Wouldn't it be nice if we just all stopped using nuclear energy? I think enriching uranium sounds scary. If we all stopped being at war with each other, we do not need means to protect ourselves with dangerous goods. And if we can use sun or wind energy as our biggest energy supply, we can also stop using nuclear energy for that purpose too! Sounds like a good plan no? I hope these talks will go just as good as last weeks agreement between Turkey and Arminia went in Zurich.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_program_of_Iran

11-10-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Madrid!
Tags: madrid | elle | park |

I worked for Spanish Elle, for the January issue that will be in stores half of December. I had to take a flight very early on friday, from Zurich to Madrid, and went straight to work!

But this weekend I have no work, and will enjoy Madrid, my first visit to this city, and also my nice hotelroom. I mean, nothing is nicer than to start the day with a great big breakfast buffet at your hotel!

Sometimes I need to take a few days off, and just chill in a hotel for a few days. This way I can relax, and work on different important things that I have to do. like working on making my dreams come true!

But I also take time just strolling through the city I am visiting. Like I did yesterday. I walked through Madrid, and enjoyed the weather, the nice buildings, and I also went to a park. ( Madrid is one of the greenest cities of Europe!)

This park is called: Parque del Buen Retiro (literally "Gardens" or "Park of the Pleasant Retreat") and is the biggest park of Madrid. It used to be the royal gardens, only for private use, but now it is open to the public, and for free too!

In the weekends it can get crowded, as many families spend their leisure time in this beautiful park. There are many performers in the park, like a clown for the kids, a man and a dog that show tricks, and a woman covered in clay, sitting very still hoping to make some money. I was impressed because it was very hot out, and she did not move a muscle!

One thing I liked was the big lake where you can rent a boat. You see many boats here on a sunny day, and in the back you see a nice royal building. This lake was used in the early days to perform naval battles, and make a show out of it for the royals. All the leftover, royal buildings around the park, are now museums.

The park is clean and very well taken care of. There are many places to relax. Another proof that having a great time does not have to cost money!

Now I am going back chilling on the terrace of my hotelroom, and do the things I have to do! But when you are in Madrid, definitely go visit this beautiful place!

www.aviewoncities.com/madrid/parquedelretiro.htm en.wikiped
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buen_Retiro_Park
www.elle.es

08-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
What's really in your Make up?
Tags: dictionary | cosmetic | ingredients | avoid |

We know we have to be aware of what we eat, what we put in our mouth everyday... But do we have any clue of what we put on our body, and on our face?

What is in our body lotion, face cream, foundation and mascara?
Our skin absorbs everything, and then that goes into our bloodstream. Very important that we know what is in it.

There are a few ingredients that some ( like myself) are allergic to, or that are toxic. Mostly in the cheaper products, but sometimes even in expensive creams and make up.

Below is a list I found on the website www.alkalizeforhealth.net, that they state as toxic. ( and on the website they explain why) . Try to avoid these!

1) 1,4-dioxane
2) 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol)
3) Alcohol, Isopropyl (SD-40)
4) Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)
5) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
6) Anionic Surfactants
7) Benzalkonium Chloride
8) Butylated Hudroxyanisole (BHA)
9) Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
10) Cationic surfactants
11) Cetalkonium chloride
12) Cetrimonium chloride
13) Chloromethylisothiazolinone
14) Isothiazolinone
15) Cocoamidopropyl Betaine
16) Cocoyl Sarcosine
17) Cyclomethicone
18) DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), & TEA (triethanolamine)
19) Diazolidinyl urea
20) Dimethicone
21) Dimethicone Copolyol
22) Disodium Dioctyl Sulfosuccinate
23) Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
24) Disodium Oleamide Sulfosuccinate
25) DMDM Hydantoin
26) Ethoxylated surfactants
27) FD&C Colour Pigments
28) Formaldehyde
29) Fragrance
30) Hydrolysed Animal Protein
31) Imidazolidinyl urea
32) Lanolin
33) Lauryl dimonium hydrolysed collagen
34) Lauryl or Cocoyl Sarcosine
35) Lauryl Sarcosine
36) Liquidum Paraffinum
37) MEA compounds
38) Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
39) Mineral Oil
40) Nitrosating Agents
41) Paraben preservatives (methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl)
42) Paraffin wax/oil
43) Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) compounds
44) Potassium Coco Hydrolysed Collagen
45) Propylene/Butylene Glycol
46) PVP/VA Copolymer
47) Quaternium-7, 15, 31, 60, etc
48) Rancid Natural Emollients
49) Silicone derived emollients
50) Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
51) Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)
52) Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
53) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
54) Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
55) Stearalkonium Chloride
56) Talc
57) TEA (Triethanolamine) Laureth Sulfate
58) TEA compounds
59) Toluene

Especially avoid products with parabens and things including "aluminium" (for instance in deodorant) as they have been linked to serious illnesses like cancer and Alzheimer's Disease.

The following book is very interesting to find out what is in you daily body regiment:
"A Consumer's Dictionary Of Cosmetic Ingredients" by Ruth Winter.
It states exactly what every ingredient is, what it does, and wether it is harmful.

Also the websites below are very helpful, so check them out!

picture: Lonneke by Marc de Groot

www.amazon.com/Consumers-Dictionary-Cosmetic-Ingredients-Cos
www.cosmeticdatabase.com
www.oodora.com/health-and-food/personal-care/10-toxic-ingred

02-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Apples are healthy!
Tags: apples | research | healthy foods |

The belgian news paper "Het Laatste Nieuws" reports that eating your daily fruit is more important for your health than experts thought at first, a recent research shows.

Scientists analysed the characteristics of apples, peaches and nectarines. They found that these fruits have 5 times more polyfenols than previously thought.

Professor Dr Paul kroon: "Bacteria in the intestines use these Polyfenols to make components that are important for your health, they stimulate for instance the activity of antioxidants."

This research proves that these components are very important to keep people healthy.

Professor Kroon: "Polyfenolen fight infections and malignant tumors. They also protect the cells against damage of free radicals and they prevent heart disease. Research also shows us these components lower the risk of Alzheimer considerably.

So I would say: Eat your (Organic) fruits!

www.hln.be

29-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Good Food on a Shoot in Amsterdam!
Tags: shoots | lunch | elle |

yesterday I shot with photographer Marc de Groot.
(He is going to marry the love of his life Irena on the 5th of September, who is an amazing hair dresser and make up artist. Funny enough the stylist of Elle also is getting married on the 5th of September, to all: congratulations!).

We shot the cover for dutch Elle.

I was happy (again) because we got a really nice lunch at the Witman Kleipool Studio in Amsterdam, prepared by Christien Engelbronner, who takes care of the catering at this studio, while also being a dietician ( and a mom).

Great fresh bread, cheese, tasty salad and a homemade soup made of snap peas, and for desserts there were real smelling and great tasting fresh strawberries, it was all delicious!

I always say, eating good food at a shoot is important to keep the whole crew happy, and give a model enough energy to look amazing in the picture. Food is the base of a good shoot.
I definitely think this was a really easy, fun shoot, and I hope the pictures will be great!

picture by Marc de Groot: Lonneke ( with hair in rollers) and Christien talk about the importance of healthy food and how to prepare it.
www.marcdegroot.nl
www.elle.nl

11-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Support the ASPCA
Tags: ascpa | charity | dogs | cats | horses |

One cause that is important to me, is the care of abused and neglected pets all over the world. In America we have the ASPCA, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty against Animals.

They take in dogs, cats, horses and other animals that need our help.

Please take a moment of your time and go to their website, to read one of the stories of the animals they care for.
And hopefully you want to support and donate money.
Every rescue and treatment is paid for with donations, so your money can help a lot.

But you can adopt too! Many are waiting for a new friend, it could be you!

I have seen what they do with the money with my own eyes. It is put where it is needed the most: The animals.
They upgraded their facility in the upper West side in NYC. The dogs and cats have now bigger more open rooms and spaces to play together. It truly looks like an animal heaven.

I am currently working on an ASPCA project, to raise more awareness of the many dogs, cats and horses that are amazing friends to have, and are up for adoption.
Hopefully I can tell you more about it in the near future!

www.aspca.com

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10-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Go watch The Cove!
Tags: movie | the cove | dolphins |

I just came back from watching the movie The Cove. It was an eye opener for me.

I got interested in the movie, because I saw 2 familiar names on the film poster: Mandy-Rae Cruickshank and Kirk Krack. Mandy Rae is a world famous, world record holder freediver, who also happened to be the one who taught me how to dive. Kirk worked with David Blaine in helping him to hold his breath for his record he did on Oprah. Together with a team of activists, the went to Japan, to unveil the truth of what really happens in Taiji…..

The story starts with Ric O'Barry, who was the trainer of famous dolphin Flipper. For years he didn't think much about it, and enjoyed training dolphins. Then he started to realize that keeping dolphins in captivity is wrong. "Dolphins are very smart, and are very aware of what is happening to them. Some become depressed or even commit suicide when kept in captivity" He says. But the damage had been done: Everybody in the world loved Flipper, and zoo's and aquariums worldwide wanted one of their own. The capturing and trading of dolphins becomes big business.

During the 35 years after his realization, he has been trying to fight people to capture Dolphins in nature, and selling them for enormous amounts to different places in the world. If that dolphin was lucky I must say, because the ones that aren't lucky, are killed. The killings they show in the movie are terrible to watch....

Besides that the killings are bad, the flesh of dolphins also contains many, many times more the allowed amount of Mercury, and is therefore toxic for people to eat. So eating it, is not a great idea either.

One place Ric says where that happens, and in his opinion is the core of the problem, is The Cove. This cove is in a little place called Taiji in Japan, and is a small bay, in which dolphins are caught by using sounds to throw off their sonar system. The good ones are sold for about 150.000 dollars, the "bad" ones, all of them, are killed for about 600 dollars per dolphin.

Together with a team of camera crew, free divers (Mandy-Rae and Kirk) and other activists, they try to uncover the truth of this cove. That is not easy because nobody that is involved, wants anybody to know about this place. Let alone film there.

The movie, which was directed by Louie Psihoyos, shows the struggle of Ric O'Barry to bring these dolphins killings to the attention of people and governments, and make it stop. Plus it shows the struggle of the team of activists to capture everything on film. It is about the dolphins of Taiji, but also about sea life all over the world.

It is , I think, a very important movie to see, and I am sure it will move you just like it moved me.

www.thecovemovie.com
www.fandango.com/thecove_122933/movieoverview
www.takepart.com/thecove

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22-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Travel: Checklist
Tags: travel | checklist | visa | first aid |

If you are going to a nice destination for your holidays this year, there is a lot to not forget. What to bring? What to wear? How can I get my suitcase to close?

Here are a few tips, things you should check before you go.

- First of all: Do you need to get shots for the place you are going to? Better go to doctor first to do that.

-Do you need a passport? Or is a drivers license enough? Are they both still valid?

-Do you need a visa for the place you are going to? If Yes, apply on time.

-Do you have a travel insurance, or a cancellation insurance?

-Is your Credit Card or ATM card valid? Can you use it in the country you are going to? Is there a sufficient balance on the account? Are you gonna take cash?
What is the currency there?

-In Europe, if you use a car, you need to have certain things with you in the car in certain countries, like a first aid kit.and some countries you need a pass to drive on certain roads.
Check on: www.aaroadwatch.ie/euregulations/

-Bring a first aid kit with you with basic essentials like aspirin, your daily medication, bandaids, alcohol wipes, sun protection. maybe birth control like the Pil and/or condoms? And for girls: Bladder infection medication. ( I learned the hard way) Check your medication with your doctor if it is legal to bring to the country you travel to. Put it in your carry on so it is easy to get to.

-Make sure you don’t have dangerous things in your suitcase, especially when you travel with an airplane.

-Don’t pack to much, as you always bring more home. Make sure you don’t go over the weight that is allowed by your carrier. Check online with them.

-Don’t put your address and contact information on the outside of your bag,( but do it on the inside). “Bad guys” might see it and visit your house while you are gone. And that’s no fun!

-Make sure you print out all your travel information, and contacts for your hotel, and travel agent. Also leave one home for the folks that stay behind.

-Check hotel or travel agent before to see if everything is going as planned.

-Check the weather at the destination, and only pack for that. Do not bring things you already think you might not wear, as it is only extra weight for you to carry.

-Check all above with your travel mates ( family, partner, kids) to make sure they are prepared as well.

More important things:

-Charge your Ipod
-Charge your phone
-Bring converter plus all chargers.
-Bring enough to read
-Bring some healthy snacks, you never know where you end up being, you want to be prepared when getting hungry
-Always have a bottle of water in reach.
-Hand wipes come in easy to always.

Last thing:

Everything shut off at home? Gas? Lights?
Did you close door and windows properly?
Is someone gonna watch over your house while you are away? Does that person have an extra key?

If yes, Just start enjoying your vacation!

www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibi
upl.codeq.info/
www.independenttraveler.com/

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

07-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Work Out: Running!
Tags: work out | running | lonneke |

A lot of people dread it, and some just love it: Working Out.

I am one of those people who hates to work out. Can't we just stay in shape by reading a book or something? The answer is no. When i am at home, in my warm environment, it is hard to get myself to do it. In hotels there is a better chance I get seduced by the shiny new fitness equipment. But IF i have worked out, by running, jumping, cycling or any other way, and I am totally covered in sweat, a feeling of euphoria overcomes me. I am just so proud of myself i have done it again!.

For a lot of people it is hard to do that first step of going to a gym, or work out. So the first thing you need to do is find something that you like doing. I am very picky with what I like: not much. But Running is kind of O.K.. I like it when I am in a perfect condition, and can run for miles. But to get there, you actually have to run.....

So i had to break through that vicious circle, and so I bought a treadmill for my home. I looked on internet to find the best one. When i got it, i started running for a minute, and then walk for 3 minutes.(Trust me, 1 minute running back then was already a lot I thought!)

Slowly I could expand the intervals, and now, 6 months later, I can run for 30 minutes on 6mph like its nothing. I had to get good shoes, as it turned out at the specialized shoe store(where they film your feet and tell you which shoes to get) that I run with my feet inwards. I put my treadmill next to a mirror, so I can see myself run, and maybe correct. But most important is the distraction! I cannot run without a TV on, or listening to an Ipod. It makes the time pass faster!

When I got better at running, I started to run outside, of course only when the weather is not to cold, or hot. It is harder to run outside then on a treadmill. But I didn't look like a fool anymore, as I could actually run more than just back and forth in my street! Now-believe it or not- I like to run outside. Just see people, and things happening. It is fun.( Just watch the traffic!) I heard running is not so good for your knees and joints. So I do it every other day, to give my body time to rest. After trying many work outs, i do think this is the best for me to stay in shape!
www.run-down.com
www.treadmilldoctor.com/BestBuyAwards-Treadmill

01-05-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Water!
Tags: body | science |

The earth consists of 70 % water. Your body weight is between 45% and 75% water, which is needed for you to live. It hydrates cells, lungs, and thins blood. Because of this important role in the body, It is important to make sure you do not get dehydrated. In these times, everybody seems to be always running around, running on coffee. Coffee actually dehydrates your body, just like flying, breathing, sweating and alcohol. It is important to drink between 4-8 glasses of water a day and also food that consists of a lot of water, like fruits and vegetables. Soda and tea also do not count for water. Water can heal, even the worst hangovers can get better with a few glasses of water, since this replenishes the cells which alcohol has dried out. Keep a bottle of water around you at all times, and drink from it regularly. I usually start the day with a big glass of (hot) water with some lemon juice. This cleanses the toxins out of your insides and your skin. Skin looks much better when drinking a lot of water. And as a plus, drinking water makes you fill up and prevents overeating. So a lot of good stories about water, something we should care for. Clean drinking water is our most precious asset! The world doesn't care for it enough, as you can see in the linked video below.