Coffee Cup or Coffee Cup?

Working in the heart of downtown Boise, Idaho, has been great. Every morning, I walk 5 blocks to my office and almost always stop at the local coffee shop on the corner, Thomas Hammer. I had noticed a few weeks ago on my cup that it had the word “ecotainer™” running up the side. As no one was in line behind me (surprising, yes, I know!), I asked about it. I was informed by the barista that those cups, which they use to serve their Fair Trade and organic coffee on a daily basis, are biodegradable. The ecotainer cups are made from a corn-based product that requires less energy to produce and is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute. For more information, log onto www.internationalpaper.com/Packaging/Packaging_Products/Foodservice/ecotainer/

Lemonade for Sale!

I don't think I can remember a summer where I didn't see a lemonade stand. Now that it is August and the summer days are coming to and end, I encourage you to get out there and make a large pitcher of organic lemonade to share with your friends, family, and neighbors.

Lemonade is one of those drinks that is so easy to make and tastes much better when it's fresh! Simply take 8 cups of water and 2 cups organic sugar and boil until the sugar dissolves. Cool. While the liquid is cooling, squeeze enough organic lemons to produce 1 cup. Mix the sugar water liquid and the lemon juice, pour in either a glass or pitcher over ice....Cool off and drink up!

**If you are looking to add a twist to your fresh lemonade, simply add 1/3 cup iced tea to 1 cup of lemonade for an Arnold Palmer.**

*thanks to Joy of Cooking for the lemonade recipe.