Tom Bihn designs and manufactures travel bags, laptop bags, and backpacks in Seattle, Washington. Their innovative and stylish line of bags gave me the chance to share a made in USA find with my husband. Please welcome David as he writes his first guest post reviewing these awesome bags!  I spend a lot of time commuting each day, often switching … Read more

Local issues are the focus here at made in usa challenge. My personal quest to adopt a “buy local” lifestyle has me exploring the ramifications of consumerism, and they are often felt globally. The choices we make in our local communities and homes has the potential to affect the lives of people around the world. These facts are particularly striking … Read more

Based on reader feedback, I have started a new “Made in USA Savings Newsletter”. This weekly e-mail will contain my list of current coupon codes, sales, daily deals and giveaways for American made products. This is the first issue of newsletter, and I will be posting it here. Moving forward, the newsletter will only be sent to those who opt … Read more

Blue jeans are pretty much the unofficial causal uniform of Americans. Denim has a rich history in the US, and has enjoyed decades of popularity. But despite being an icon of Americana, over 98% of jeans are imported. I was recently contacted by Liz from the non-profit wearUSA regarding a campaign she has undertaken to save a historic denim mill … Read more

As part of my ongoing effort to live a more sustainable lifestyle, I have tried to reduce the amount of plastic in my life. I use canvas bags when shopping, cloth produce bags at the farmer’s market and stainless steel water bottles. Neat-os provided the solution to the missing piece of the puzzle, reusable plastic bags. There are several re-usable … Read more

Now that I am a Mother myself, the authenticity of these words rings truer than ever. When you are shopping for Mom this month (important reminder for the Dads: Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13), consider what your gift means. Maybe you will take your Mom out for brunch, or help your kids craft something homemade, or perhaps you will … Read more

“A recent rainy Spring day provided the ideal opportunity for the inaugural mall visit of my challenge…” And so began my venture into blogging on year ago today on April 24, 2011. Fueled by the thrill of a potential foray into amateur investigative journalism, I mapped out my plan of action to maximize my store visits around my son’s two-hour … Read more

One of my greatest motivators for adopting a buy local lifestyle is to protect the environment. The United States remains the world’s top emitter of CO2 gas. That means our country bares the most responsibility for contributing to pollution and global warming worldwide. Therefore, it should be our responsibility also to lead the movement for change. One of the easiest … Read more

This year picking a birthday party theme was easy for my little conductor. My son’s fascination with trains made a “choo choo” party an easy choice for his second birthday. I was very conscious of the supplies I used in party planning, trying my best to use more locally made, handmade and eco-friendly materials. Planning a party using American made … Read more

I intended to publish a post about American made Mother’s Day gift ideas today, but I’ve decided to save that for next week. There is special opportunity being presented by myself and some amazing bloggers to contribute to a wonderful charity fighting hunger. The Wholesome Wave Charity Auction Event has been extended through May 3rd. This gives you the opportunity … Read more