Haiti Needs Soap

Our friend Alane of Blissful Botanica just brought to my attention this blog:

http://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/soap-needed-in-haiti/

Don’t have any soap/shampoo to spare?  The crafting community is also stepping up and showing their support.  Find out how by going to my friend Rachel’s blog:

www.lostintheattic.typepad.com/

And if you are needing or wanting anything from Mary Janes Farm, please consider purchasing those items this week as 10% of sales will go to Haiti Earthquake Relief Efforts:

www.maryjanesfarm.org/

Most of us cannot begin to imagine the circumstances the Haitian earthquake victims now find themselves in.  Thank you for doing whatever you can to help.  Hugs,

Valynne & Paul

PS I just sent 50lbs of random soap chunks in 2 large Priority Mail boxes, which cost me $29 total.  Two normal boxes would have cost me around $80 to send.  Be sure to use the “Flat Rate” boxes, which you can pick up free of charge at the post office.

On The Giving of Gifts (One Woman’s Wish-List)

Affordability

Can we, as individuals afford to give what has been deemed socially acceptable in our human circles?  Can we, as a global community, afford it?  If not, then let this be the year we begin (or continue) to change our habits for the better. 

Sustainability

Are our purchases improving societies and eco-systems or destroying them?  Let us all try to wrap our heads and hearts around this question and honor the answers this Holiday Season.

Brick and Mortar

Our Indie businesses need us now.  What may seemingly cost more up front can ultimately save our communities on a global scale.  Please let’s support our local shopkeepers and restauranteurs who in turn support our local artisans and producers and economy in general.     

Alternative Gifting

Giving does not need to involve the spending of money we cannot really afford to spend.  Writing a poem, singing a song, handmaking a card, baking a treat, infusing a bath oil, shovelling a driveway, teaching a skill, walking a dog, sharing a photo…the posibilities are endless.

Gratitude

A gift is a gift, be it humble or grand .  Let us give what we can to those we want to give to, and let us receive with gratitude in our hearts.   Happy Holidays, everyone!