If you like the concept of fair trade─a market-based system that ensures better trading conditions for producers in developing countries─you may want to choose fair trade options over others when given the chance. Fortunately, more stores are carrying fair trade products than ever before, and there are numerous on-line sites as well, offering items ranging from coffee and tea, to body care products and apparel, to home décor and jewelry.
Many Americans are hearing more about fair trade these days, which is fortunate, given the tremendous benefits this system offers to people and planet. Fair trade is both an organized social movement and a market-based approach that aims to create better trading conditions for producers in developing countries.
As you look back over the holidays, you may be amazed at all you accomplished─including shopping, cleaning, gift wrapping, cooking, entertaining, socializing, and more. In short, a whirlwind. In the midst of it all, you might have felt that if you could just make it through on all cylinders, you could relax and decompress afterwards.
However, while the post-holiday period is a relief, it can also be a huge anti-climax, leading to the blues─or worse. Though clinical depression should be addressed professionally, these tips can help you combat normal feelings of post-holiday let-down. Read the rest of this entry »
Are you familiar with Kwanzaa? This week-long celebration─observed every year from December 26 to January 1st in the U.S.─honors universal African-American heritage and culture.
Dr. Maulana Karenga of the US Organization founded Kwanzaa in 1966 as the first specifically African American holiday. As an African American and Pan-African holiday celebrated by millions throughout the world African community, Kwanzaa brings a cultural message which speaks to the best of what it means to be African and human in the fullest sense. Read the rest of this entry »
“It is in spending oneself that one becomes rich.”
~ Sarah Bernhardt
Many Americans are more likely to help those in need during the winter holidays than any other time of year. This is, after all, the season of giving. The challenge is, there’s desperate need all year long, in every part of the country, and all across the globe. While giving back periodically is valuable, more people are realizing that committing to some type of philanthropy on a regular basis is important for a healthy family culture. Read the rest of this entry »
December is National Stress-Free Family Holiday Month─an appropriate observance when you consider that for many families, this is the busiest month of the year. Why should this time─which should be about joy and celebration─be such a source of strain? Good question!
Once we understand the challenges, we can develop creative solutions to minimize tension, while still retaining what we love about this special season. Read the rest of this entry »
Are you still in the midst of holiday shopping? Many people are, making it an ideal time to call attention to an important safety issue. Prevent Blindness America─the nation’s oldest eye health and safety organization─has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. It’s a good reminder to make conscientious purchasing decisions based on what is best for each individual child.
“In the excitement of the season, sometimes we may forget that not every gift is
appropriate for every child,” said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent
Blindness America. “By taking a few easy safety precautions, we can keep the holidays
happy for everyone!” Read the rest of this entry »
Along with dressing up your home for the holidays, how about “decorating” your garden too? Eye catching, edible ornaments are the perfect outdoor décor to attract winter birds. Not only will you share your holiday spirit with your local feathered friends, you’ll also help them to better survive the winter. You may even attract new bird species along the way!
So, how should you start? First off, designate the trees─ideally those within view from rooms you spend time in, so family members can enjoy watching the birds explore and feast. The trees you select should have plenty of widely spaced branches so multiple birds can easily access the treats. Read the rest of this entry »
November is National Healthy Skin Month, sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology to raise awareness about keeping skin healthy all year long─to prevent sun damage, reduce signs of aging, and safeguard one of the most vital organs we have.
What’s the most important factor in protecting that pretty face? You guessed it, sunscreen. You might be surprised to learn that up to 90% of the changes we associate with aging─such as lines, wrinkles, and discoloration can be attributed to past sun exposure. The American Academy of Dermatology and the Skin Cancer Foundation offer these tips to help reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer: Read the rest of this entry »
In 1996, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) launched National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. This campaign was designed to acknowledge and promote the invaluable role shelters play in their communities and to increase public awareness of animal welfare issues and shelter services.
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