American-Made Weekend Links

It's amazing how sobering the news has been of late. I am constantly reminded of both of what amazing and what tragic things are occurring in the world right now. It's sometimes hard to focus on the positive when there's a government shutdown, children are still working in terrible conditions in sweatshops around the world, and corporate greed still fuels so much of what we see. And then along comes something that just makes me smile and feel like the good really can overpower the bad.

Stay positive.

Here are a dozen articles and videos you need to see if you haven't already:

The Most Exported Made-in-USA Product

There is one product in the United States that is still 100% American-made, one of our top exports, and coveted all over the world. In fact, most of this product in existence right now (as much as two-thirds) is exported. And demand is still growing. Do you know what it is?

Laundry Day

Yesterday, I finally got around to doing some laundry that I had put off for an embarrassingly long time. Since I live in an apartment building that has community washer and dryers in the basement, it's necessary for me to have a laundry bag to carry my things down to the laundry room.

National Manufacturing Day

At Borough Furnace in Syracuse, NY

Today, is National Manufacturing Day. With a skilled labor shortage and advancements in technology, there are lots of reasons why people should get acquainted with the manufacturing industry in the U.S. There are lots of events planned and ways in which you can get involved.

Spotted at the Nail Salon

Lanel Professional Nail Dryer

This makes going to the nail salon even more worth it, right?

P.S. See more in the Spotted... photo series.

Leggings: Beyond the Basics

A few years ago, I solidified my love for leggings. While I have a ton of leggings for Pilates, I also have some that are just for when I want to wear something comfortable: after work, on the weekends, and when I am traveling. There are so many options for American-made basic leggings. And now there are lots of options for those who want something that's a step up from the basics.

Top Posts for September

A thanks to all your emails, tweets, comments, and messages in support of my work on the blog the past month. It's great getting your feedback.

The top five posts for September 2013 are: