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The Leakey Collection – Sustainable, Beautiful Accessories

March 15th, 2010 by saracsnow

I just got back from Natural Products Expo West and one of the highlights was, without a doubt, my visit with Philip and Katy Leakey, the founders of The Leakey Collection.

category25It was a rare trip to the states for the husband and wife team, who live and work as ecopreneurs in Kenya.  Philip is the son of renowned paleo-anthropologists, Drs. Louis and Mary Leakey. And though Philip doesn’t work uncovering fragments of man’s past like his father, he is turning to nature to create gifts for the planet’s future and to provide sustainable work opportunities for over 1400 of his neighbors, the Maasai.

Last year was the year of a historic drought in Kenya, so severe that even giraffe, which are usually very resilient during droughts, were dying in masses. Even though rains came on Christmas day, it is still uncertain if Kenya will recover this year.

In order to meet this challenge, Philip and his wife Katy have expanded their Lifestyle line (The Leakey Collection) using “nature’s leftovers” (fallen acacia wood, a nuisance grass and fallen Marula fruit). Philip & Katy have built a business “from the ground up” and in turn have provided work opportunities that are affecting lives on a grand scale. The Leakeys run their global company from a 12×12 tent in Kenya.

category34The Leakey Collection, a fair trade company,  was born eight years ago, during the last severe drought which devastated Kenya’s pasturelands, bringing dire conditions to the Maasai who depend on their cattle for a livelihood. At this time, the Leakeys were personally supporting over 100 Maasai families financially.  Quotes Philip, “This situation was not sustainable for either party”.  The Leakeys were determined to find a way to help their neighbors become self-sufficient. Realizing the potential of the Maasai’s natural bead working skills, the Leakeys combined Philip’s knowledge of ecology and conservation with Katy’s artistic abilities and love of nature to create Zulugrass jewelry.

Today Zulugrass is sold in shops in over 20 countries and at leakeycollection.com. As Kenya experiences trying times, The Leakey Collection continues to offer hope to thousands in East Africa.

According to Katy, her husband “has the unique ability to see potential that others overlook. From turning fallen acacia wood into a serving tray, to making jewelry from grass, or lotion from Marula nut oil, Philip is incredibly creative.” She also went on to say that the Maasai have become very entrepreneurial and that these opportunities have inspired them to develop their own businesses.

Sara with Maasaii women

Sara with Maasai women

I grew to love the Maasai people during my trip last year to Kenya with the Microfinance company, MicroPlace.

And I began to love the Leakey Collection when I was first introduced to it a year or two ago. Since then I’ve worn the Leakey bracelets often and am now sold on the Marula Oil the Leakeys have developed with these same Maasai beauties – women who know a thing of two about hydrating skin and looking effortlessly young.

Also on SaraSnow.com

Brighter Eyes and Firmer Skin – all in a Neat, Natural Package!

March 5th, 2010 by saracsnow

sa-logoSkin Authority, a spa skincare line in which natural ingredients, recycled materials, renewable energy and eco-friendly techniques are infused into every product, has come out with another great one.  This time they’re focusing on the eyes. They are the window to our soul, after all.

More than 70% of women in the US believe that if the appearance of their eye area were improved, their whole face would look younger.

As someone who frequents lumpy pillows in hotel rooms, red eye flights, and pregnancy induced sleep deprived nights, I’d have to agree!

Just a couple of weeks ago I started using the Skin Authority Dramatic Eye Lift cream.  It’s a highly-concetrated formula designed to “lift and tighten” the skin around the eyes.  (I can think of a few other places I’d like it to “lift and tighten” but, alas, the bottle isn’t big enough for that.)

The skin under my eyes has always been a problem area for me.  It’s either dark (ala ‘dark circles’) or it’s flaky and dry.  Since I’ve been using this Eye Lift Cream I have noticed an improvement in both areas.  And if this cream means I can eventually leave the house without my daily swipe of under-eye concealer, then I’m sold for life!

The product isn’t cheap ($120) but it may be worth it.  It’s recommended that you use the Dramatic Eye Lift with their Moisturizing Lift Cream for your whole face.

Skin Authority is committed to creating natural products that are healthier for you and me as well as the planet.

  • No dyes
  • No added fragrances
  • No parabens
  • No animal testing
  • Recyclable packaging and materials
  • Eco-sensitive treatment protocols
  • Renewable energy to power production

Also on SaraSnow.com

Fruit on the Go

March 3rd, 2010 by saracsnow

I admit I’m not much of a fan of pre-packaged, convenience foods.  Except, maybe, when it comes to things like granola bars…and even then I like to make (and package in little wax paper bags) my own.

You see, in my mind fruit is the perfect convenience food.  Take bananas and oranges.  They come loaded with vitamins and minerals like Vit C and Potassium and they come pre-packaged in their own individual little wrappers.

Perfect!

But, I’m willing to admit, with a baby on the way myself, that there are times that busy moms needs the convenience of little cheddar fishy crackers and, even, squeezable fruit.  If it’s still healthy, free of preservatives and other junk, then why not?

41nNcxZyNiL._SL160_AA115_This is where GoGo squeeZ fits the bill.  GoGo squeeZ makes 100% fruit (no sugar added), squeezable applesauce.  And they have a cute history.

Story has it that in the 19th century, a very loving grandfather was determined to craft a special snack for his grandson. Using delicious apples from his backyard orchard in the Val De Loire region of France, near the Chateau Chambord, Monsieur Materne created a delicious and simple applesauce. The Materne company was born and would go on to become the most popular applesauce company in France.

Known as Materne Pom’potes in France, the brand has become the favorite fruit snack of children with more than 1 billion pouches consumed to date.

Materne GoGo squeeZ was launched in the US in June 2008 to offer American families the opportunity to enjoy the no spoon, no mess, all natural squeezable applesauce when on the go! Each pouch contains the equivalent of one fruit serving and supports the GoGo squeeZ mission: Helping parents feed their kids better foods when they are on the go!

41REJXV07VL._SL160_AA115_

Flavors include apple-suace, apple-banana, apple-cinamon, apple-peach and apple-strawberry.  Each pouch equals one serving of fruit and comes with a built in straw and resealable cap.  GoGo squeeZ is available at retailers around the country as well as on Amazon.com.

Also on SaraSnow.com

Green Baby Bling

March 1st, 2010 by saracsnow

onesies_large

A friend of mine recently told me about a fabulous company called Bling Baby: sassy, sparkling clothes and accessories for baby.  It turns out, it was her friend who started the company and her first baby girl who was inspiration for its inception.

Here’s the founder, Jennifer Linder’s story:

Let’s face it…all girls are born LOVING bling.
The minute I found out that my friend Carolyn delivered a baby girl I could not wait to deck her out in something pink that sparkled! I was surprised how hard it was to find the perfect, personalized baby gift. (Even in a big city like Chicago). I decided it was time to take matters into my own hands. I guess I’m more of a “chip off the old block” than I ever thought. My mother has always encouraged me to satisfy my artsy side through various craft projects. Since I couldn’t find the perfect gift, I decided to make my own design for Taylor and that is where BLiNG-BABY was born.
I love the idea of creating personal designs for children that are affordable and adorable. Whether it be their name, nickname, initials or just something endearing to Mom & Dad, make it sparkle and say it in BLiNG!

boys_hats1My first reaction was, “cute story and cute stuff” but I’m not huge on sparkles and I’m going for organic cotton as much as possible for my baby girl.

AND THEN………

Then I discovered the Bling Baby Organic Cotton Line!  Personalized caps and onesies made from 100% organic cotton.  Fabulous!!!

pinkstripe2I only wish we had a name picked out so I could order up some stuff now.  I promise I’ll put some pics up once this little green bean is born with her wearing all sorts of sparkly, personalized garb.

If you’re like so many women out there and you want to live a healthier, greener life without giving up the fun and fashion you’ve always enjoyed, Bling Baby’s organic cotton line offers the solution.  Fabulous, fun, fashions for babies that are made from organically grown cotton to boot!

Here’s to Jennifer for following her dream….and helping to fill our babies’ closets with cute and eco baby bling!

Also on SaraSnow.com



Slowing Down, And the Benefits of Meditation

February 24th, 2010 by saracsnow

I recently did an interview for a site called Hip Mountain Mama.  Here’s a portion of that where I talk about the benefits of even just a few minutes of meditation each day.

You can view the whole interview here.

SuzyWhy do you think it is important for people to slow down and simplify in this day in age?

SaraBecause we’re all, simply put, moving too quickly. Life didn’t use to be like this. We didn’t used to be “plugged in” every minute of the day. We took walks, we sang to the birds, we ran barefoot and sat in silence. All of this is so important for our brains, our muscles, our digestion, and our spirits.
I will always remember one particular day during college. I was stressed and over-worked and worried and I called my mom to cry to her a bit. And she told me that I needed to find a park bench and to sit and watch the squirrels for a while. That’s it. Just watch the squirrels.
It’s still what I do today when I’m overly stressed. I call a time-out and I just sit and watch the birds or the squirrels.
A fantastic practice to get into is a short meditation session in the morning or evening every single day. The simple act of emptying your mind and breathing deep, cleansing breaths can be so incredibly healing.

I do believe in the powerful healing forces of meditation.

Among other things, meditation can:

  • Increase blood flow and slow your heart rate
  • Increase serotonin production to positively enhance mood and behavior.
  • Enhance the immune system.

Try it today!

Also on SaraSnow.com

The Proper Way to Wash Your Hands

February 22nd, 2010 by saracsnow

You use the bathroom; you wash your hands.

You cut some chicken; you wash your hands.

You work in the garden; you wash your hands.

You’ve been doing it countless times a day, all your life, but did you know that there’s a right and a wrong way to wash your hands?

According to Dr. Larry Weiss, Chief Scientist at CleanWell, makers of All Natural Antibacterial Hand Soaps, there is a correct way to wash.  And, says the good doctor, it matters!

Hand Washing 101 from Dr. Larry Weiss

  • If you think your hands need washing, they probably do.
  • When people around you are coughing and sneezing, wash more frequently.  All that coughing and sneezing creates a mist of virus that lands on every surface that you touch.
  • Use the time that you are actually washing your hands to relax.  Don’t try and “just get it done.”  Instead, take five slow, deep breaths as you wash.  Use the moment to calm down and enjoy the sensation of warm water and soap on your hands.  Pay attention to what you are doing and you will do a better job and feel better.  (This is an alternative to singing happy birthday- something that no one actually does and if they do, it makes them feel silly and childish.  Five slow deep breaths will calm you down, reduce your heart rate, clear your mind, and take about 20 seconds – enough time to do a good job washing your hands).
  • Make sure to dry your hands thoroughly.  Wet or damp skin is much more likely to pick up germs from surfaces like doorknobs or countertops.
  • Use a paper towel to open the door when you leave a public restroom.  If there is not a wastebasket outside the door for the paper towel, drop it on the floor outside the door.   If enough people do that, a wastebasket will appear!
  • Teach hygienic habits and educate children about the importance of cleaning their hands immediately after a sneeze or wet cough. A “Bless You” or “Gezundheit” means a trip to the sink or use of a sanitizer whether a tissue was used or not.

CleanWell All Natural Antibacterial Hand Soaps retail for $4.99 and are available at Whole Foods Markets, select Target stores, Babies R Us, Vitamin Shoppe, GNC and Amazon.com.

Also on SaraSnow.com

The Green Pregnancy Diet

February 19th, 2010 by saracsnow

417oCyGc2XL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA240_SH20_OU01_Author Radha McLean was a lifelong vegetarian who didn’t overly think the foods she ate – until she became pregnant with her first child.  Suddenly she was buying only organic foods and taking supplements to help both she and her developing baby.

These changes were the inspiration for her new book, The Green Pregnancy Diet, an accessible, you-can-do-it approach to eating green when pregnant.

The book contains:

  • Guidelines for a non-toxic, environmentally-friendly diet
  • Nutrition during pregnancy
  • 20 easy, nutritious, flavorful recipes
  • Organic, vegetarian ingredients with dairy-, gluten-, nut- and wheat-free options
  • Tips for creating a green kitchen

“There is no doubt,” says Radha, “that you and your baby are better off if you eat a green diet.”

This book makes doing just that easy.

Also on SaraSnow.com

Melaleuca

February 17th, 2010 by saracsnow

tagI get asked, on at least a monthly basis, how I feel about Melaleuca.

In case you’re like I was and don’t know much about this company, here’s some background.  Melaleuca develops, manufactures and sells over 350 of “the world’s leading wellness products for your home and family.” They say they carefully craft products with the highest standards of safety, health, and wellness in mind.

Ok, but a lot of companies say that, so I did my best to dig farther.

Their products are concentrated, thus cutting down on packaging waste.  In fact, if all consumer product companies followed their lead in this regard, each year landfills in North America would have 890 million tons less plastic waste; enough to fill the entire state of Delaware with a 3-foot layer of plastic.  Cool, I’m definitely a fan of concentrated products.

What about the ingredients?  All of their home-cleaning EcoSense products are:

  • free of chlorine bleach
  • free of ammonia
  • free of formaldehyde
  • non-caustic
  • super concentrated
  • made of ingredients that are sustainably source whenever possible

tub_tileAnd they say that the EcoSense formulas are developed around the most effective naturally derived ingredients. Here are some examples:

Sol-U-Guard Botanical® 2x Concentrate teams up two potent botanical germ killers: citric acid and thyme oil. This dynamic duo kills 99.9% of common household germs on hard, non-porous surfaces in less than 10 minutes.

Rustic Touch® does its beautiful work with carnauba wax, the strong natural wax that protects but never dulls or yellows.

Aside from relying on natural cleaning agents, they also use trigger sprayers instead of aerosols in order to reduce the chances of inhalation.

So, that all sounds pretty good.  I was recently sent a number of their cleaning products to try.  So far, no complaints with how well they work, but I was finally able to get a look at their full ingredients list (something that I couldn’t find anywhere on their websites) and found that they still list ingredients like “fragrance” and “preservative” – two words I don’t like to see.

For now, I think I’ll stick with my other natural cleaning favorites or the old standbys – vinegar, baking soda, and soap.

Also on SaraSnow.com

“My Mom Hugs Trees” and other Fresh Reads

February 15th, 2010 by saracsnow

A few months ago I was in New Jersey speaking at the Holistic Moms Network annual conference.  It was while I was there that I met the woman responsible from some of the freshest children’s books I’ve seen in a long time!

0978532619As a soon-to-be new mom of the tree-hugging variety, I became particularly fond of My Mom Hugs Trees.

“The story depicts a love and enjoyment of nature and life.”  Summer (the main character) is convince that she has the “weirdest mom in the world.”  Who else hugs trees, rescues bugs, sings with birds, and talks to flowers?  Of course in the end she learns to love and appreciate her mom as much as the trees and bugs that her mom so dearly loves.

Also from the Solar Publishing My Mom series, comes My Mom Eats Tofu, about Summer dealing with her mom’s crazy efforts to plant seeds, eat organic foods and compost; and My Mom Stands on Her Head with Summer learning about yoga, t’ai chi and meditation.

Solar Publishing is a children’s multimedia publishing company, helping young people learn to respect and embrace nature & humanity in alternative and fun ways.  Their mission is to enlighten the lives of children through media that instills a sense of connection to nature and humanity.  Every book is printed on 100% recycled paper and they plant a tree for every product sold.

Reading that’s good for all of us.  Gotta love that!

Also on SaraSnow.com

A Vegetarian Feast for Valentine’s Day

February 12th, 2010 by saracsnow

Valentine’s Day is a day to shower the ones you love with love, but it doesn’t require an expensive or energy-intensive rack of lamb or roast tenderloin.

Here are recipes for Roast Vegetables in Phyllo Pouches and Olive Oil Cake – two of my favorites.  Pair the phyllo pouches with some lightly dressed greens and serve the olive oil cake with fresh raspberries or strawberries and some dark chocolate shavings.

Light the candles, pour the organic wine, and let the festivities begin!

Roast Vegetables in Phyllo Pouches

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for pan
  • 2 small onions – diced
  • 3 cloves garlic – minced
  • 2 zucchini – diced
  • 3 carrots – diced
  • 10 mushrooms – diced
  • (Could also use artichokes, celery and/or squash)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • additional rosemary sprigs for garnish
  • S & P to taste
  • Freshly grated Romano or Parmesan Cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a sauté pan, lightly cook the onions & garlic in olive oil.

Add zucchini, carrots and mushrooms.  Add herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.  Simmer, stirring often, until vegetables are cooked but still firm.  (Do not cover)

While the vegetables are cooking, preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Lay 2 sheets of phyllo dough out on a flat surface.  Place a healthy scoop of vegetables in the center and sprinkle with freshly grated cheese.

Fold the four corners in and secure with a toothpick.  Lightly grate another small layer of cheese on top.  (If you’re having a hard time getting the corners to stay in place, you can flip the pouch and bake it flat side up).

Place pouches on the parchment lined cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Top each with a sprig of fresh rosemary.

Enjoy!

Olive Oil Cake

INGREDIENTS

  • 3 eggs
  • 2 cups organic sugar
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups organic milk
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or about the juice of 1 lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 2 cups whole-wheat flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9-10” round spring-form pan.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar.

Add oil, milk, lemon juice and zest and beat until smooth and consistent in color and texture.

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, nutmeg, soda and salt.

Add the dry mixture into wet mixture, a little at a time, and beat until well mixed.  Be careful not to over-mix or the dough may become tough.

Pour into a 9-10” round greased pan.

Bake at 350 for 50 minutes.

Allow to cool in the pan, then remove and let the cake cool completely.  Serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries or sorbet.

Also on SaraSnow.com