Okay, I haven’t posted anything on MisticCafe.com in a long time. I’ve been busy with my other websites and life. This is the first blog I ever created and it’s like my baby. Unfortunately, like most parents sometimes you neglect your child because you become self-absorbed in your life. That’s about to end. I’m committed to posting at least once a week on this blog. So here it goes…

Is the environment about to self-destruct at the hands of humans? Year after year, it’s the same old story. Some corporation somewhere has contributed to the destruction of planet Earth. Most of the humans on this planet sit back and have a “whatever” attitude about it. They figure someone else will take care of the problem. What happens when there’s no one left to clean up the planet? What happens where there isn’t a planet to clean up? That’s right, our environment could self-destruct at the hands of the humans who walk and live upon it.

The Gulf of Mexico 2010 oil spill has really gotten to me and other citizens. It’s the 21st century and we still haven’t figured out that nothing lasts forever. Why does it take a catastrophe to happen to make us realize that nothing lasts forever? Wouldn’t it make more sense to ensure our infrastructures and structures are solid and secure? Wouldn’t it make more sense to ensure a crisis plan is in place in case something happens? How about having technologies ready and available to stop a crisis if it occurs? Perhaps this is asking too much.

The damage from the Gulf of Mexico oil spill is horrifying. Experts say it’s worse than the Exxon Mobil oil spill of 1989. Innocent animal and plant life are once again killed because of human stupidity. Once again peoples’ livelihoods are in jeopardy because “big corporations” couldn’t think ahead. Maybe this tragedy will wake up the people of the U.S. It’s about time citizens become angry and demand change from corporations and the government. The life of planet and its inhabitants deserve justice.

What’s taking so long to fix Gulf of Mexico oil problem? Seriously, a five-year-old probably could have figured out how to solve the problem. Quit the “blame game” and fix the problem. Maybe it’s the lack of technology. It’s the 21st century and the U.S. is still lagging behind in technology when compared to other countries. This problem could have been fixed a long time ago if the proper technology was available.

It’s amazing how U.S. citizens have to bail out corporations like AIG, banks, and other institutions for their major screw-ups. In the meantime, Americans are getting screwed left and right. Their houses are being foreclosed, jobs are being eliminated, and credit card debt increases while these companies roll in the money. Where’s the justice in this? Why aren’t people speaking out? Nothing will change if your voice isn’t heard. It’s up to you to make it known how ticked off you are and that you won’t take it anymore.

If you love the environment, recycle (where you can), buy organic foods that are locally grown, make sure you put your trash in trash cans, pickup litter, and be the best you can be. The Earth won’t last forever if everyone doesn’t do their part to respect and protect the environment.

Rebecca

What do you think of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico? Who’s responsible? How mad are you that “big” corporations and governments keep screwing up the planet? Share your thoughts.

I recently visited the East Bay and South Bay areas of San Francisco. I wanted to see the Pacific Ocean before I left and was told that the ocean was only an hour away from Campbell, CA. I had no idea that I was headed for Santa Cruz, CA.

I arrived at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and was really stoked about being there. One of my favorite movies is the Lost Boys (original movie) with Keifer Sutherland. I couldn’t believe that I was starring at the same boardwalk that was used in the film. Due to the amount of people at the boardwalk and beach, I didn’t get the chance to wander the boardwalk. I plan on going back and will make sure I arrive at 8 am or 9 am.

From the boardwalk I drove to the Santa Cruz Harbor, East side. I parked on the street and walked towards the beach. As I took my shoes off to walk on the beach, I was disheartened to see the amount of debris on the beach. It was disheartening. It’s no wonder that the oceans are raging. They’re probably mad as hell because human beings are screwing up the planet instead of respecting and taking care of it.

Here’s a tip: if you want to park on the street, make sure you have a permit. I received a $45 ticket because I didn’t read the sign very well: “No parking Mon.-Fri. 8 am – 5 pm. Permit only.” I missed the “permit” only part. You can buy a permit (now I know) from a trailer that is located at 9th Street. Permits are $7.00.

On the beach I found plastic bags, bottles, an abandoned football, and other trash. What does this say about the human race? Apparently, some of us are still a bunch of Neanderthals! There’s no reason to use the beach as a big landfill when there are garbage cans available for trash. Here’s a tip: bring your own trash bag and take your trash home with you. This way you can recycle glass and plastic.

It’s interesting that I received a $45 ticket for parking on the street, but people can trash the beach and oceans without any penalty. Where are the police “beach” cops? Perhaps they’re too busy patrolling the streets giving tickets to out of town visitors. Paying attention to traffic is more important than looking for posted “No Parking” signs.

Our beaches and oceans deserve respect. Without them the human race wouldn’t survive. What would we do if our oceans become so polluted that they can no longer serve mankind? What will happen to the animal life in and around our oceans? They will no longer exist which means possible cures for diseases could be lost. Instead of working with our environment, we work against it. This is counterproductive.

Continuing to desecrate the Earth’s ecosystems will be detrimental to human beings, animal, and plant life. If humans don’t want to become extinct along with plants, animals, and minerals, then I suggest all of us do our part to clean up the planet and show it some respect. Otherwise we could all be in for a rude wakening. If you think some other planet in our galaxy or another galaxy far, far away will welcome us with open arms, you’ve got another thing coming. They’re more likely to “use” their force and turn all of us away or vaporize us!

Rebecca

Do you know what is in your shampoo and conditioner? It’s amazing how many chemicals go into a shampoo and conditioner. Did you know that those chemicals are absorbed into your body? Have you ever noticed any breakouts on your forehead or face? Those breakouts (any type of acne) could be caused by the shampoo and conditioner you are using.

Natural and organic products do exist. The key is knowing where to find them and which ones will work best for you. Start by researching the internet for natural and organic hair products. If you have a farmers market or a Whole Food Market in your area, ask for assistance.

Synthetics to Look For in Shampoo and Conditioner

1. Methyl, Propyl, Butyl, and Ethyl Paraben.
2. Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA).
3. Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea.
4. Sodium Lauryl / Laureth Sulfate.
5. Petrolatum.
6. Propylene Glycol.
7. PVP/VA Copolymer.
8. Steralkonium Chloride.
9. Synthetic Colors.
10. Synthetic Fragrances.

These ingredients are prevalent in shampoos and conditioners. Methyl is used to extend the shelf life of products. DEA is used in cosmetics to produce the “foaming” action of a product. It can cause allergic reactions, eye irritations, or dry hair and skin. DEA can be toxic if it’s absorbed into the body over an extended period of time.

Another cheap detergent that is used as a “foaming agent” is sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate. This is derived from petroleum! Buyer beware because it’s usually disguised as “comes from coconuts” in so-called natural cosmetics.

To make cosmetics look pretty, “synthetic colors” are added to products. Look for FD&C and D&C which will be followed by a color. An example is: FD&C Red No. 6. While you’re at it, watch out for “synthetic hair dyes” because they’re bad for you as well.

Synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics, shampoos, and conditioners can have as many as 200 ingredients. They can cause headaches, a rash, vomiting, dizziness, skin irritation, and coughing. If you read the label on a shampoo bottle and it contains the word “fragrance,” you may want to put it back on the shelf.

Sadly, some companies who claim to be all natural and organic still use synthetics in their shampoos and conditioners. Read this review on Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Shampoo. You may also want to read this review of of Aveda’s Rosemary Mint/Equalizing Hair Conditioning Rinse.

The next time you purchase shampoo and conditioner for your hair, you may want to read the ingredients. You have no idea what you are using. Can you pronounce the words? It’s amazing how much money spent on plastic surgery in this country, yet people still use products that could do more harm than good. There goes all the money for the plastic surgery!

Not only is Ellen DeGeneres a queen of comedy and talk show host but she’s also part owner of Halo Purley for Pets. Halo touts itself as having the “world’s best natural pet care products.” Their entire line of products for cats and dogs are made with the highest quality ingredients. They are also made with real ingredients. For the skeptics out there, Halo puts their money where their mouth is!

Pet lovers who buy canned food for their cats and dogs usually receive a product that is processed into a brownish/pinkish mush. The ingredients are listed on the label, but can you clearly pick them out? In most cases the only ingredient you see is the broth.

Halo’s canned cat food is not your average cat food. Spot’s Stew Wholesome Chicken Recipe is the “original,” with natural ingredients. That’s right folks. The label reads something like this: chicken, zucchini, yellow squash, celery, chicken broth, carrots, green peas, and other natural ingredients. Can this be canned cat food? Yes, it’s a very healthy and natural meal for your cat or kitten.

Spot’s Stew looks like the stew grandma used to make for Sunday dinner. It even smells like it! Your cat or dog will wipe the plate clean and will bark or meow for seconds! If you want the very best for your best friend, then pickup a couple of cans of Spot’s Stew today. Cats and dogs everywhere give it two “paws” up!

Mountain Gorillas are one of three subspecies of the Eastern Gorillas. Currently there are 700 individuals which are broken into two groups. One of those groups are the Virunga Gorillas. These gorillas are found in the Virunga volcanic mountains of Central Africa within four national parks. Those parks are Mgahinga, in south-west Uganda; Volcanoes, in north-west Rwanda, and Virunga and Kahuzi-Biéga, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The plight of the Virunga Gorillas began last July when photographer Brent Stirton took a photograph of a dead 500-pound male gorilla named Senkwekwe who was murdered execution style. Senkwekwe was strapped on his back to a litter made out of saplings. That photograph was published in Newsweek for the entire world to see.

Who would do such a thing? The answer to that question is a complicated one. Stirton and writer Mark Jenkins were fortunate enough to be allowed into the part of Virunga where the mountain gorillas live. The area is now controlled by a militia. Brutal militias, corruption, and an environmental terror are part of the answer. Combine these with the war in the Congo and the repercussions of the Rwanda genocide and a horrific scene unfolds.

Stirton’s theory about the Virunga Gorilla murders is this: “It is part of an ongoing struggle over illegal charcoal production in the park’s ancient hardwood forests – a struggle that involves corrupt Congolese army factions and more than one Hutu militia.”

Visit National Geographic to watch a video on the Virunga gorillas and to read the article by Mark Jenkins with photograph by Brent Stirton. For further reading about the Virunga Gorillas, visit NPR and read the article “Chronicling the Virunga Gorillas.”

To protect these beautiful creatures, visit African Wildlife Foundation and make a donation today. To support the local artists and mountain gorillas of Virunga, visit Virunga Artistians.

Many people have jumped on the “natural and organic” band wagon. However, you must still read the ingredients. Just because food is labeled natural and organic does not mean healthy. Furthermore, if you love the rain forest and wildlife then you better read the ingredients in organic peanut butter. Palm Oil or “cruel oil” is an ingredient found in organic peanut butter which comes from Borneo, Malaysia and Indonesia. Unfortunately, the environment of the orangutans in these areas are being decimated for the harvest and planting of palm oil plantations. Before you dig into that peanut butter, you may want to make sure you will be able to “stomach” it.

If a package is labeled 100% organic, this means the product is completely organic or made of all organic ingredients. An “organic” label means that product is at least 95% organic. If the package is labeled “made with organic ingredients,” the food contains at least 70% organic ingredients. Visit the Mayo Clinic to learn more about organic food.

Links to Healthy Living

Eat Well & Be Happy with Genisoy. If you love soy products then you will love Genisoy. They offer a variety of products that really do taste great.

Find high quality vitamins and supplements at Vitamin World! For all of your vitamins and supplements to healthy living.

GNC is giving away $2000 each month through December. Visit GNC for all of your nutritional supplements, weight loss maintenance, and other health products.

Remember to read labels carefully. Just because something is labeled as natural does not mean it’s good for you. Arsenic is a natural substance but it’s poisonous! Here’s another tip. Those packages of 100 calorie snacks are not necessarily “healthy” alternatives. Please read the ingredients in the 100 calorie snacks. Some of the products contain ingredients that sound disgusting! What exactly is beef plasma? Yeah, that sounds healthy and tasty!

On Sunday, May 18, 2008, CBS’s 60 Minutes aired a re-broadcast of the December 16, 2007 story called “A Visit to The Garden Eden.” This “pristine paradise in Indonesia” has been untouched by man. The rain forest did not need more exposure to the world. It has existed beautifully without the presence of man!

CBS correspondent Bob Simon and Bruce Beehler, the lead scientist from “Conservation International,” took a 20-hour flight to Indonesia, boarded a single engine plane, and loaded into a helicopter for a 45-minute ride. Reporters and scientists do not need to add pollution to the rain forest via an airplane and helicopter! How is this helping to conserve the rain forest? According to the article, this is probably why it took Bruce Beehler “24 years of begging before the Indonesian government would let him set foot there.”

Conservation and preservation of rain forests is a fabulous idea. However, this particular rain forest has been doing fine on its own. For example, Bob and Bruce discovered “no sign of human activity, no footprints, no trails, and no Coke cans. There are no sounds except for the sounds of birds.” The exception is if you’re a native and you live in the surrounding area of this Indonesian “paradise.”

Thank goodness for organizations such as Cafe Britt. The organization “contributes 5% of the sale price of all hardwood products to rain forest conservation.” Café Britt’s operation meets or exceeds international environmental standards under the norms of ISO 14001: 2004. Programs and projects are in place to make effective use of natural resources, prevent pollution and minimize negative environmental side effects.” If you are a coffee or chocolate lover, visit Cafe Britt to purchase your Premium gourmet coffee fresh from Costa Rica. Buy online today!

Bruce Beehler was correct when he said “this is a place apart. And I think it’s good that we go away. And we take our memories but allow this place to be as it is and be a special place for centuries to come.” Amen to that!

To learn more about conservation, Indonesia, or rain forests visit Barnes and Noble and pickup some knowledge that could help preserve our Earth!

Apparently you can be arrested for helping an animal in distress. Who knew! According to San Diego News at least two people helped to free a baby harbor seal on the night of May 6, 2008. The baby seal had a net wrapped around its neck. Poor thing! Wildlife rescuers worried that the baby seal would die if the net was not removed.

Good news! SeaWorld has permission to save marine creatures. Bad news! They could not get onto the beach without disturbing the other seals. Boo! This is why SeaWorld was unable to help the baby seal.

The seal was born at the small beach known as the “children’s pool” in La Jolla, CA, which was one reason people were reluctant to try to help. The children’s pool in La Jolla is quite controversial. Some people would like to destroy the harbor sea colony while others prefer to preserve it. The original creation was to protect a fully protected swimming area. However, sand has filled in most of the area inside the wall and a colony of harbor seals now lives there.

Protected!: The La Jolla beach was recognized in February 1999 as a natural harbor seal haulout and rookery by the National Marine Fisheries Service. Here’s the twist. Marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. Their habitat, however, is not. That makes sense!

What would you do? I would probably help to free the seal, which would “tick off” the EPA because their guidelines will not allow it. Rescuers cannot save an animal in distress because it may disturb the other wild animals around it. Check out this article on Fox 6 News.

To learn more about La Jolla, CA, harbor seals, or other marine life, visit Barnes and Noble. If you plan to go for a run on the beach, grab your Skechers and watch out for the wild life!

I received an update from my mom on our lovable Yorkie-Poo Harriet. Harriet has not been feeling well lately. My mom used a product on her called Sentry Pro XFC, which is a flea and tick medicine for dogs. BIG MISTAKE! My mom sobbed as she held little Harriet in her arms and apologized to Harriet for what she had done to her. Harriet was given a bath (she is not a big fan of baths) and drank some “tuna water” (then later ate the tuna)! Good News! Harriet is on the road to recovery! Hooray!

Read This!: Flea and tick medicine such as Sentry Pro XFC and Frontline contain chemicals that are not good for pets! Visit problems with Sentry Pro XFC to read about what may happen to your pet if you use Sentry Pro XFC. For more tips visit petloverstips.com.

Alert!: Did you know that toxic chemical pesticides have been known to cause immediate health crises in some dogs and cats? Even worse, the chemicals (Deet) can circulate and accumulate in your pets body and do unseen damage to vital organs that may go undetected for years! Plus, the chemicals can do damage to you, your children, community, and MOTHER EARTH! You may think about this as you reach for that glass of water or till your soil!

Go Natural!

Fleas and ticks are a nuisance for everyone, but they are especially a nuisance to our pets. It is up to owners to protect their pets and keep them safe. Pesticide sprays and squeeze-ons are a “quick-fix.” Not to mention that they are full of TOXIC CHEMICALS! Is it worth it to spray toxic chemicals on your pet or around your family in order to get rid of the pests?

Pet Health Tip!: Remember, your pet requires proper nutrition, just like you! If you wish your pet to be free of “fleas and ticks” their immune system must be strong. Feed your pet a high quality diet that is rich in proteins and nutrients!

Good News! You can purchase natural “flea and tick” medicines, which are a safe and effective alternative to “old school” flea and tick medicines. Visit the following: globaldognaturalpetproducts.com, botanicaldog.com, halo pets, or Only Natural Pet Store for natural pet products. Your pet will love you even more!