If you’re heading out to the beach this summer, you’re going to want to make sure you’re prepared and with the recent oil spill in the Gulf that has reached “environmental catastrophe” a few times over, it’s also a good idea to keep in mind how much the environment really does matter. So give back to the environment this year while still having a great time at the beach by checking out some eco-friendly beach essentials. You’re going to want to make sure you’re stocked up on some of these items anyway, so why not make an eco-conscious decision while you’re at it?
DreamSacks Beach Towels
DreamSacks beach towels are made from 70% viscose from bamboo and 30% organic cotton. They are soft, sustainable and available in three different color combinations. They are perfect for the beach, spa, pool, picnics and other fun, outdoor events.
$29.50
Lavera Sunscreens
Lavera sunscreens are 100% natural mineral pigment based sunscreens, which offer up to 95% UVB protection. They are chemical-free, non-toxic and made from a waterproof formula that is immediately effective on application and completely safe for the entire family to use.
$2.95-$31.00
Melissa Love FU IV Women’s Sandals
The Melissa Love FU IV women’s sandals are cute, comfortable and nautical. Perfect for a day at the beach! Melissa Shoes are made from MELFLEX, a trademarked plastic which offers improved elasticity, impermeability, and resistance to water. It is also hypoallergenic, odorless, and recyclable.
$39.95
Tortuga EcoArt Bag
The Tortuga EcoArt Bag is an organic cotton reusable tote bag that features a bold sea turtle. It is a must have sea life accessory with coastal style and are ideal for shopping, books, travel and every day errands.
$17.95
Tags: beach towels, beach vacation, BP oil spill, DreamSacks beach towels, eco-friendly companies, environmental awareness, environmental catastrophes, Gulf oil spill, Lavera sunscreen, reusable tote bags, sandals, Shopping, summer activities, summer vacation, sunscreen, women's shoes, Your Style

As we head into the last month of summer vacation, a lot of families are making the last of their plans for their upcoming family vacations. The worst thing parents can hear while on their summer vacations is “I’m bored!” from their kids and that is precisely why Marriott has just launched a new promotion that is guaranteed to keep kids occupied and happy throughout their stay.
When you stay at any of the 2,000 Marriott locations, including Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn and TownePlace Suites locations, you can arrange to “Nickelodeon Your Stay”. The package includes a ton of free items, including a SpongeBob activity bag and splash ball, Nickelodeon sunglasses and a 3-D build-your-own SpongeBob craft. The Nickelodeon Your Stay packages at Marriott and JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts include all of the above items as well as a SpongeBob SquarePants or Dora the Explorer pillowcase and storybook.
Visit NickelodeonYourStay.com for all of the information you’ll need on how to Nickelodeon Your Stay when you stay at any Marriott location during your family vacation. You will also find free, downloadable Nickelodeon-themed travel games, a travel journal, a travel bingo game and coloring sheets.
To celebrate the addition of the Nickelodeon Your Stay packages at the Marriott locations, Mom Central is hosting a Twitter party on Thursday, July 29th at 3:00PM EST. During the Twitter Party you will be able to talk about summer vacation plans, tips for traveling with kids and you will also have the chance to win $50 and really awesome Marriott/Nickelodeon prizes.
Follow the Twitter party discussion at #nickyourstay and be sure to follow @MomCentral.
Tags: children's activities, Children's Toys, Family, Family Events, interactive children's websites, Marriott, Mom Central, Nickelodeon Your Stay, Social Media & Networking, summer activities, summer vacation, Technology, Travel, traveling with kids, Twitter party, World