Ecoleeko

Making a House a Home Treasury

2011-11-26T13:09:00.003-05:00

'Making a House a Home' by ecoleeko

It's the little things that make it your home sweet home

Fiber art card - Magent... BozenaWojtasze... $20.00	Metal House numbers / t... toughandtwiste... $25.00	9"x9" CUSTOM ... asklaver $150.00
urban white brick pillo... pillowhappy $35.00	Metal House mixed media... PersonalCircus $175.00	Cocoa Faux Bois .. Stee... ekohdesign $22.00
Black Friday Etsy - Cyb... orlydesign $14.00	Make your own family ca... Caracarmina $22.50	Original Acrylic and In... laurawennstrom $20.00
Handmade Sterling Silve... metalclothnwoo... $40.00	block print cloth napki... juliepeach $28.00	Recycled T-Shirt Rug in... talkingsquid $60.00
House (Concrete Sculptu... jakobi $10.00	Custom Family Portrait Demofia $120.00	SOFT ORNAMENT - Scale M... nicethingsmatt... $11.50
There's No Place Li... hellojenuine $17.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

My Handmade Nursery- TwinSoulArt

2011-10-26T10:39:00.006-04:00

I love these collage blocks by TwinSoulArt (formerly ThreePaperPigs) on Etsy.com

Each side of the blocks were adorned with her cool collage work. Great for when my son can identify objects and they look amazing and fun in his room! I chose 2 of red, blue n yellow but she also has black available.

You can see her great collages, also available as prints & cards on her site. I just love the graphic quality of the images... they look like fine art.

The blocks are very cool and would even look great in my studio ! Hmmm...

Salt City Urban Art & Craft Market

2011-10-20T14:58:00.004-04:00

Join me this Saturday, October 22nd along with 49 other great vendors for the 3rd annual Salt City Urban Art & Craft Market in Syracuse!
This year it will be located at a very cool Leeds certified bldg, King & King Architects
at 358 West Jefferson Street.

Take a look at the other vendors that you'll see there!

Show opens at 10 am and runs till 6pm. A great time to find some wonderful wares.

Hope to see you then!

My Handmade Nursery - Criswell Creations

2011-10-10T19:39:00.007-04:00

A lovely addition to the nursery is this darling mobile made by CriswellCreations on Etsy.com.

The mobile is made of a trio of hand stitched patchwork birds in turquoise prints. Each bird sits upon a real branch that is counter weighted perfectly. They look like real birds sitting naturally on a tree.

Below is the view my baby can peer up to every morning, what a way to start your day! Really wonderful and perfect for any bedroom. Maybe I'll have to get one for my room! You can see more lovely mobiles and fun items at her shop on Etsy.com

My Handmade Nursery - QuietudeQuilts

2011-10-06T16:23:00.007-04:00

I have been in baby land for the past couple of months, but now that my son is almost 4 months, I've gotten into a routine and wanted to highlight some of the great handmade finds I have found for his nursery!

My first Handmade Nursery Find is from Quietude Quilts on Etsy.com. Her cute "Tiny Forests" are just adorable and come in all different colors and prints.

I loved the black and white high contrast prints. My son is only still very young, so I'll have to wait till he can add them to his play repertoire, but they look lovely just adorning his bookshelf until then.

You can see more of her Tiny Forests and other wonderful handmade items at her shop on Etsy.com.

Organic Crib Mattress Research Part 2 Boric Acid

2011-03-23T14:36:00.006-04:00

After doing some preliminary mattress research, I found a number of chemical names being tossed around. One was Boric Acid used as a flame retardant in crib mattresses.
What is Boric Acid? I've been told by some it's totally natural and safe, Boron is an element found naturally in fruits, which is true.. but have also read Boric Acid is an active ingredient in Roach Killers? Google.com says-

Boric Acid-

Known also as Boracic acid, Orthoboric acid and Acidum boricum
Contains Boron, Hydrogen and Oxygen and is a colorless crystal
It is a weak acid used in insecticides, flame retardants, and nuclear power
Used in the manufacturing of glass, paper, adhesives, detergents, food preservation
"Moderately" toxic

Boric Acid is used in some Crib mattresses to make them flame retardant. It is usually combined with a fiber creating a flame retardant layer underneath the surface of a mattress.

"Here is how Boric Acid is applied to cotton batting: “Generally applied in the mixing machine prior to garneting, boric acid is introduced to the cotton fibers along with a small amount of oil and chemical surfactant. To further achieve even distribution and adherence to the fibers, the boric acid is ground to a very fine consistency prior to application. … Applied as a white powder, boric acid is inorganic and is odorless.” (NCBI) Thus you can see Boric Acid is not chemically bound and exists as loose dust in the surface of our mattresses. As the mattress gets older and oils dry out even more Boric Acid will kick up into our faces with every body movement for us to breathe and absorb."
http://www.peopleforcleanbeds.org/boric_acid_risks.htm

Some of the risks of using Boric Acid as a flame retardant I've found are-

"Boric Acid is a known reproductive and developmental toxin, and a known respiratory irritant. Exposure also demonstrated injury to the gonads and to the developing fetus. There is a high prenatal mortality with overexposure. Neonatal children are unusually susceptible. There are already 6,463 U.S. cases of Boric Acid poisoning each year. One human exposure study showed reduced sperm counts and reduced sexual activity in humans."
http://www.safecribbeds.com/toxinfreebeds.asp

"The EPA and CDC warn of Reproductive, Developmental, and Neurological Damage. It has many known health risks including, genital damage, brain damage, anemia, infertility, birth defects, and death, and at the very least may dry and irritate your skin and lungs.

Boric Acid is absorbed through skin contact, particularly damaged skin, and inhalation. Quoting the federally required Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Boric Acid (H3BO3):

Inhalation: Causes irritation to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. May be absorbed from the mucous membranes, and depending on the amount of exposure could result in the development of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, rash, headache, fall in body temperature, low blood pressure, renal injury, cyanosis, coma, and death.
Chronic Exposure: Prolonged absorption causes weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, convulsions and anemia. Liver and particularly the kidneys may be susceptible. Studies of dogs and rats have shown that infertility and damage to testes can result from acute or chronic ingestion of boric acid. Evidence of toxic effects on the human reproductive system is inadequate. "
http://earthfriendlygoods.com/pages/BoricAcidinMattresses.htm

"There are no labeling requirements of the chemicals in beds. Mattress makers are under
no obligation to tell the truth. They all claim they don’t use chemicals or say their systems are nontoxic. The CPSC Table 1 of chemicals used proves these statements wrong. There are no chemical free and safe systems.

There can be two pounds of poison in the surface of your mattress. All the Boric Acid systems also contain Antimony. Other systems include Formaldehyde, Silicon, or Ammonium Polyphosphate, but these were not studied. The CPSC did prove Ammonium Polyphosphate leaches from mattresses in large quantities. It is doubtful our children absorbing this fertilizer will grow any better.

Over a pound of Boric Acid exists as loose dust simply mixed with cotton fibers in flameproof mattresses. It is a known respiratory irritant, also used as Roach Killer, is a known reproductive and developmental toxin, “Demonstrated injury to the gonads and to the developing fetus.” “High prenatal mortality. Neonatal children are unusually susceptible.” One human chronic exposure study showed reduced sexual activity and sperm counts. There are already 6,463 U.S. cases of Boric Acid poisoning each year."

http://www.strobel.com/flameproof_mattresses_proven_to.htm

"Although no adverse effects have been reported from inhaling boric acid dust, it is absorbed through mucous membranes. Ingestion of 5 grams or more may irritate gastrointestinal tract and affect central nervous system. Contact with dust or aqueous solutions may irritate eyes; no chronic effects have been recognized, but continued contact should be avoided. Dust and solutions are absorbed through burns and open wounds but not through unbroken skin."

http://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/chemical/8334

The MSDS Sheet for Boric Acid http://www.jtbaker.com/msds/englishhtml/b3696.htm

The US Boron Industry says "Conservative estimates of exposure to boron from sleeping on borate-treated mattresses, based on wipe test results after a roller test simulating 10 years of use, show negligible exposure for both adults and children. The estimates were based on a series of conservative assumptions, which are designed to err in the direction of overestimating exposure. For example, it was assumed that a person sleeps naked on a bare mattress with 100% of the body surface in contact with the mattress surface. Similarly, it was assumed that a child licks a 6 x 6 inch area of the surface of a bare mattress daily."
http://www.jonesfiber.com/boron.html

It's up to each individual parent to decide if Boric Acid in a baby's mattress is safe as a flame retardant and needed or not. There are many more websites out there, not cited here, that can help you find information on Boric Acid

How do you know if a crib mattress has Boric Acid as a flame retardant inside? Well, you don't. Companies do not list exact chemicals and even sometimes don't list materials that make up mattresses in their descriptions. It's up to you, the consumer, to find out for yourselves.
Contact the companies who make the crib mattress you are interested in and ask!

Organic Baby Crib Mattress Research Part 1

2011-02-09T17:34:00.005-05:00

I've been doing a lot of research on crib mattresses, now that I'm in the market for one, and I'm surprised at what I'm finding. I just figured I could find an organic cotton mattress not treated, buy it and whalla, it's done..NOPE. It looks like I'm getting a lesson in flame retardancy with chemicals hidden everywhere, not to mention advertising using "Eco" or "Organic" in the titles to lure you in. It seems like many big name companies will use some great materials than mix in some not so great chemicals to comply with flame retardant standards and waterproofing needs.

I'm looking for a crib mattress that is firm enough, made with natural ingredients, preferably organic cotton and organic wool with good ventilation. There's godda be an affordable on out there right? What I don't want is a crib that is full of chemicals that my new baby will be inhaling in the crib.

My search started, where else, at my local department stores, Target, Babiesrus, etc. Target has a mattress that said "organic" It's called the Munchkin Comfortsafe Organic Crib Mattress, which sounded great to me. So I added that to my list to look up.

Next I went online, and found that Amazon.com has a ton of different ones listed, and started to read reviews and descriptions of different companies cribs. After days of comparing and contrasting, let alone confusion, I started making a list of pros and cons based solely on what actual properties are listed for each mattress and the materials or chemicals I made note of for each mattress. Here is the first 2 mattresses I looked up ..

First, I contacted the Munchkin company for some more details on their crib, as I was unable to find any reviews or information online. They responded that day very quickly with more details.

The Munchkin Comfortsafe Organic Crib Mattress-

-It's Dual sided for infant and toddler
-It's super affordable about $129.99 + Shipping
-210 Coils inner spring
PROS-
-Outer "unbleached natural cotton cover with no treatments" (Great!)
-An inner Organic Wool layer (Even better!)
CONS-
-"Has a waterproofing backing inside the mattress", (not sure what that means...plastic maybe?)
- Has a cotton flame retardant barrier inside that is treated with "minimal amounts" of boric acid (Uh-Oh, What is Boric acid? More to follow)

The Sealy Soybean Dream Crib Mattress-

The "Sealy Soybean crib mattress" has some great reviews online everywhere, BUT has a vinyl cover..Hmmm, who wants to sleep on vinyl, let alone it's plastic based!!, So someone mentioned on a blog that Sealy makes one without a vinyl cover but with a fabric cover, this one.

- About $180.00
- Says"Foam is CertiPUR-US^® certified and has been tested for indoor air emissions, durability and substances including phthalates, formaldehyde, PBDEs, lead and other chemicals"
PROS-
- Uses a sustainable material Soybeans to create foam (Sounds Good)
CONS-
- Says "Fabric cover feels soft, no plastic waterproof coating is used" BUT uses chemical treatment of "STAPH-GARD^® woven jacquard fabric covers offers liquid, stain and allergen resistance" (Ok, wait, a chemical waterproofing agent that is woven into the fabric that my baby will sleep on? Uh-No)
- If using GMO grown soybeans, the foam has a % of petrochemicals anyway, could be up to 85%! (http://organicgrace.com/ntb_crib-mattresses) (So basically plastic/soy foam?Hmmm)

So, so far no good. Both of these mattresses looked great on the get go, but both turned out to be treated with a chemical either for waterproofing or flame retardancy.

I get that waterproofing a mattress may be important to parents as your child may have accidents, etc, but can't we use a removable puddle mat made from wool or natural rubber to resist that? I'd rather have something non-toxic that I can remove and wash than a spray that can off-gas forever in my newborn infants body creating who knows what.

I'm gonna have to do more research on some of the flame retardant chemicals and see what they actually are and what they can do. Next blog to follow...

Handmade Gifts Under $10

2010-12-12T07:59:00.000-05:00

On the 12th day of Christmas, My true love gave to me..
Wonderful handmade perfect gifts for anyone for just under $10!

These lovely Birch tree printed coasters by Redbirdink

These fun & funky Gocco printed birds by Platypusfile

How about a towel that says it all, by Paintedpearstudio

This beautiful recycled note set by Pachysandrapaper

A perfect felted bowl for all your goodies by Moonflowercreations

And this darling paper bird hanging made by Lorenzkraft

All on my wish list this Christmas season!

Snow Fight

2010-12-11T06:56:00.001-05:00

On the 11th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Fun and whimsical hats to wear for our snow fight!!

We can get this fun beard hat for your brother made by Brennagunderson

And this beautiful white pom pom hat is perfect for mom! made by Chicksale

The kids can be decked out in these fun monkey hats by Cottonhead

And of course we can't forget Fido, This caroler outfit is perfect! By Mattionline

What a day of Fun and good times we'll have in our fun hats!!

A Little Bling

2010-12-10T06:48:00.000-05:00

On the 10th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
A little Handmade Bling to add some sparkle to your life!

Like this Very Unique Doll Pendant by Dolldisasterdesign

This lovely embroidered cuff bracelet by Madrigalembroidery

A cool recycled typewriter bracelet made by Hautekeys

And these mixed media beautiful earrings by Sallysunshine

All will add sparkle and shine to your holiday season!

For Your Man

2010-12-09T07:10:00.000-05:00

On the 9th day of Christmas, My true love gave to me..
Unique OOAK items any man would love!

Like this metal case adorned with the art of Ashleysilvernell

This soft leather journal handmade by Dancinggreystudio

This cool mustache flask printed by Whimsyandink

And this great printed tie by Scatterbrainties

Your man will surely want a kiss under the mistletoe after opening any of these great gifts!

Snuggle Up

2010-12-08T07:03:00.000-05:00

On the 8th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Perfect Snuggle Up gifts to keep us all toasty n warm!

Like these wool slippers made by Quiltery

This beautiful jewel tone quilt by ClothScapes

This adorable fantastic fox coat by LittleGoodall

And these snuggly organic pajamas by Snugorganics

All handmade items to keep your family toasty and warm this holiday!

Toys n Play

2010-12-07T06:33:00.000-05:00

On the 7th Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...
Great fun toys to play with!!

Like this cool wood rolling chimpanzee by Arksandanimals

These lovely paper animals by Monkeypuzzle

This fun clip on dinosaur tail made by Theblueorange

And these soft felted vegetables sewn by Thefeltedpear

What a fun holiday this will be with fun toys all around!

Hearth n Home

2010-12-06T06:24:00.000-05:00

On the 5th day of Christmas, My true love gave to me..
Beautiful items for my Hearth n Home!

Like this unique broom perfect for sweeping by Broomchick

This One of a Kind Metal Candelabra by Etcink

These fun and colorful garland perfect to hang on the mantle by Grannypantydesigns

And this lovely blanket to keep us all cozy by Lelaniarts

Handmade items sure to warm your home and soul this season!

Kitchen Goodies

2010-12-05T07:10:00.001-05:00

On the fifth Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me..
Perfect Kitchen Goodies for anyone on your list!

Like these beautiful wood insturuments including a toast tong, my favorite, made by Goodwoodshoppe

These lovely printed towels by Madderroot

This perfect sponge holder, I love these..By Mudpuppypotteryworks

and this charming pig teapot by Rith

Your kitchen will be the talk of the neighborhood with these perfect additions!

Trimming The Tree

2010-12-04T07:30:00.001-05:00

On the fourth Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me..
Beautiful ornaments to deck the halls and trees!

Like these amazing wood snowflakes by Timbergreenwoods

This cool and colorful recycled ball by Colorstorydesigns

This beautiful Metal "Hope" ornament made by FTTDesign

And these charming moss in a bottle ornaments by 31Summers

All to make your tree sparkle and shine this season!

Sweets n Treats

2010-12-03T07:02:00.000-05:00

On the Third Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me..
Yummy Sweets n Treats for this Happy Holiday!

Like these peppermint goodies from Sweetmelissasmn

And some warm cocoa from Mywinterwonderland

How about some yummy toffees from Thechocolatesmith

And some marshmellowy goodness made by Hollyhollow

OOh..What a yummy Season it is!!!

Decorating The Home

2010-12-02T06:53:00.000-05:00

On the Second day of Christmas, My true love gave to me..
Wonderful handmade items to decorate my home this Season!

Like these playful printed garlands by Flagsandtags!

And this lovely wreathe made by Fayemarie

Stuff this very cool stocking by Chickadeeshop

And dress your tree with this beautiful tree skirt by Loveelaine

All perfect items for decorating your home this Holiday Season!

Holiday Card Cheer

2010-12-01T06:28:00.000-05:00

On the 1st Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Beautiful Cards to share with my Family & Friends and Spread Holiday Cheer!

Like these colorful Holiday letter cards by Zeppe!

Or this whimsical handdrawn set by RobEdwardsArt!

How about these beautiful letterpress cards by KrankPress!

And these lovely printed cards by BlushDesignStudio!

All sure to spread some Love & Cheer this Season!

12 days Of Christmas

2010-11-30T06:24:00.000-05:00

Celebrate the Holiday Season with the 12 Days of Christmas
Featuring Lovely Handmade Gift Ideas from Etsy.com for your
Friends & Family This Year!

Each day I will choose some of my Etsy.com favorites to showcase pertaining to a specific theme. the 12 days will include-

Dec 1- Holiday Card Cheer
Dec 2 - Decorating the Home
Dec 3- Sweets n Treats
Dec 4 - Trimming the Tree
Dec 5 - Kitchen Goodies
Dec 6 - Hearth n Home
Dec 7 - Toys n Play
Dec 8 - Snuggle Up
Dec 9 - For Your Man
Dec 10 - Alittle Bling
Dec 11 - Snow Fight
Dec 12 - Gifts under $10

Shopping Starts tomorrow!

Ecoleeko at the Salt City Urban Art & Craft Market

2010-10-21T12:39:00.003-04:00

Salt City Urban Art & Craft Market
Saturday, October 23, 10:00 - 6:00pm
Featuring 40 designers and crafters that make funky, alternative and contemporary handmade artworks from CNY including Ecoleeko!
Suggested $1 entry. First 50 guests will receive an amazing free door prize!

Food & beverages provided by Strong Hearts Cafe, Recess Coffee & Roastery, and Roji Tea Lounge! Yum!!

LIve music schedule:
10:00am BeMo (Jazz duo)
11:30am Bogs Visionary Orchestra
1:00pm The Table
2:30pm Professional Victims
4:00pm The Quartet Trio (Experimental Improvisational Music)

We are looking forward to seeing you there!

_______________________
Salt City Urban Art & Craft Market
Saturday, October 23rd, 2010
10am - 6pm
Case Supply Building

112 Wyoming St, Syracuse, NY 13204

between W. Fayette St and Marcellus St. Off street parking available

Fall Favorites for Home II

2010-09-13T07:50:00.000-04:00

These picks are Yummy Yummy! There is nothing better than apples and pumpkins for fall, and what better way to celebrate them by smelling and eating them!

Let's start with this yummy Macintosh apple candle by Orchardhome. I can just smell it now filling my house with it's delicious scent!

And then we can all share a scrumptious treat of Pumpkin bread baked by Thedeeva.
Perfect for dessert, breakfast or just when you would love a delicious snack...Ahh Fall!

Fall Favorites for Home

2010-09-11T06:58:00.000-04:00

But what about Home! Home is where we can all relax and snuggle by the warm fire this Fall..

Especially if it's with this gorgeous cable knit afghan blanket by Juliannadw.

While drinking this delicious Earl Grey tea by Northcountryteas with friends.
A perfect fall evening!

Fall Favorites III

2010-09-09T07:24:00.001-04:00

I always loved the dark red-purple leaves that mix with the oranges and yellows. These 2 pieces remind me of that perfectly.

This beautiful burgundy felt cap by Colorscapedesigns with a lovely floral embellishment..

Pairs up perfect with this felted scarf made by Kallerin. Purples mixed with the colors of tangerine leaves..Perfect for an Autumns day.

Fall Favorites

2010-09-08T06:45:00.001-04:00

oooh..I can feel the wind and leaves falling already!

But I could be be warm and snuggly, not to mention cute in this adorable hat by Cimarrona.
How awesome is this! Ears aren't just for animals or kids anymore, I want to have fun too!

And how about this beautifully knitted by Bananaquintana. It looks so nice and cozy.
Oh how I can't wait for Fall!

Fall is approaching...

2010-09-06T08:09:00.002-04:00

And I am gearing up ready to find some fabulous items to keep me snuggly warm this season. I've scoured the great site of Etsy.com to find some of my favorites to feature during the month of September. There are many talented artisans out there making wonderful items to wear this fall and winter season.

Why not treat yourself and buy something beautifully handmade this season! Etsy.com is a great site to find unique and handmade items for yourself or for perfect gifts. You can find everything from goat's milk soap, handmade printed cards and recycled birdhouses to realistic paintings, silver jewelry, flower teapots and luxurious alpaca scarves.

Let's start September right with 2 beautiful handmade pieces I found today..

This beautiful necklace is the first of my favorites, knitted by Knittingshop. I love the 2 colors together and it is so lovely. I'm sure it would become a wonderful conversation piece at a dinner or party. How sweet...
I also love this green felted hat by Mojackson. The flower is simply beautiful and combined, they create such a feminine classic style. Really the perfect fall addition to your wardrobe!

Stay tuned for more Fall favorites to come!!

Clinton Art & Music Festival This weekend

2010-08-25T19:00:00.003-04:00

Ecoleeko will be at the Clinton Art & Music Festival this weekend! Come by and say Hi!

It takes place this Saturday, August 28th from 10 am on!
Tons of great music, crafters, art and food to enjoy your day. Bring your friends and family to take part in the festivities.

The festival is located in the town of Clinton, NY.
For more information, please visit the Artandmusicfest website

Baby Koi Everywhere!

2010-07-30T10:19:00.005-04:00

I am a proud pond mommy of hundreds if not a thousand+ baby Koi!

Our pregnant mama Koi must have had her babies a couple of days ago because there are TONS of tiny baby koi fish swimming around our small pond. The babies are brown with tiny swishy tails like the larger koi. They look almost like goldfish. The larger Koi let the babies eat while they sit at the bottom waiting their turn. We feed them about 5 times a day..They range in size to super tiny to about 2"

My husband was given 8 lovely Koi fish a month ago. We were told the one was pregnant expecting any day. We had never owned Koi so did some research and figured out how to take care of them. Most are bright orange in color with one almost black so you can hardly see it and a bright white one with an orange spot.

Alittle about Koi-

"The word 'koi' comes from Japanese, simply meaning "carp." It includes both the dull grey fish and the brightly colored varieties. What are known as 'koi' in English are referred to more specifically as 'nishikigoi' in Japan (literally meaning 'brocaded carp'). In Japanese, 'koi' is a homophone for another word that means 'affection' or 'love'; koi are therefore symbols of love and friendship in Japan. An example of this is given in a short story by Mukoda Kuniko, "Koi-san".

Koi are an omnivorous fish and will often eat a wide variety of foods, including peas, lettuce, and watermelon. Koi food is designed not only to be nutritionally balanced, but also to float so as to encourage them to come to the surface. When they are eating, it is possible to check koi for parasites and ulcers. Koi will recognize the person feeding them and gather around them at feeding times. They can be trained to take food from one's hand. In the winter, their digestive system slows nearly to a halt, and they eat very little, perhaps no more than nibbles of algae from the bottom. Their appetite will not come back until the water becomes warm in the spring.

Like most fish, koi reproduce through spawning in which a female lays a vast number of eggs and one or more males fertilize them. Nurturing the resulting offspring (referred to as "fry") is a tricky and tedious job, usually done only by professionals. Although a koi breeder may carefully select the parents they wish based on their desired characteristics, the resulting fry will nonetheless exhibit a wide range of color and quality.

(This is what my pond will look like in the future!HA!)

Koi will produce thousands of offspring from a single spawning. However, unlike cattle, purebred dogs, or more relevantly, goldfish, the large majority of these offspring, even from the best champion-grade koi, will not be acceptable as nishikigoi (they have no interesting colors) or may even be genetically defective. These unacceptable offspring are culled at various stages of development based on the breeder's expert eye and closely guarded trade techniques. Culled fry are usually destroyed or used a feeder fish (mostly used for feeding arowana due to the belief it will enhance its color) , while older culls, within their first year between 3" to 6" long (also called "Tosai"), are often sold as lower-grade 'pond-quality' koi.

The semi-randomized result of the koi's reproductive process has both advantages and disadvantages for the breeder. While it requires diligent oversight to narrow down the favorable result that the breeder wants, it also makes possible the development of new varieties of koi within relatively few generations.

Koi can live for centuries. One famous scarlet koi, named "Hanako" (c. 1751 – July 7, 1977) was owned by several individuals, the last of whom was Dr. Komei Koshihara. Hanako was reportedly 226 years old upon her death. Her age was determined by removing one of her scales and examining it extensively in 1966. She is (to date) the longest-lived vertebrate ever recorded."
-Wikipedia

Good Things to Share..Platypusfile

2010-07-09T15:10:00.003-04:00

I had to splurge and buy myself something on Etsy. Every now and then I want to sit and flip through amazing works of creativity that will inspire and allow me to find something beautiful..
Well I found it at the shop called Platypusfile where Janae makes wonderful printed Gocco Art and other textile wonders. I just love her imagery and style, very cool and imaginative!
Take a visit and wonder through her wonders!

New Movie.. Gasland

2010-06-28T14:43:00.007-04:00

I just heard about this movie that came out titled Gasland
I live in upstate NY and there has recently been a lot of talk about drilling private property for natural gas, If we have a natural resource on our property, doesn't sound too bad to make some money off of it, right? well, it looks like there's more to the story...

It's been called "Fracking". It's defined on wikipedia as-

"Hydraulic fracturing is a process that results in the creation of fractures in rocks. This petroleum engineering method has been used over the past 60 years (though high-volume horizontal processes are much more recent) in more than one million wells by the worldwide natural gas and oil exploration and production industry to create fractures that extend from a wellbore drilled into targeted rock formations to enhance oil and natural gas recovery.

Hydraulic fractures may be natural or man-made and are extended by internal fluid pressure which opens the fracture and causes it to grow into the rock. Man-made fluid-driven fractures are formed at depth in a borehole and extend into targeted rock formations. The fracture width is typically maintained after the injection by introducing a proppant into the injected fluid. Proppant is a material, such as grains of sand, ceramic, or other particulates, that prevent the fractures from closing when the injection is stopped. The method is informally called fracing or hydrofracing.
Considerable controversy surrounds the current implementation of hydraulic fracturing technology in the United States. Significant environmental safety and health concerns have emerged and are being debated at the state and national levels."

Read more on-
http://gaslandthemovie.com/whats-fracking

The main concern of it all is the fracking fluid that is used. The ingredients in the chemical fluid is undisclosed but is known to cause many health risks as well as become contaminates to drinking wells.

"The same chemicals used in fracking have been found contaminating the precious drinking water supply in rural areas across the United States, and with many harmful results. In some cases chemical compounds, those of most concern being adamantes and 2-BE, have been found in streams, springs and water wells that provide for neighboring towns. These compounds are not only dangerous to ingest, but they're potentially volatile. In one case, a house exploded after hydraulic fracturing created underground passageways and methane leaked into the residential water supply."
http://blog.buzzflash.com/greenisgood/007

The movie gasland shows how this is polluting wells and causing health problems all over the U.S. Some homes even have water from their faucets that can be lit on fire.
Please help me and my state to pass a moratorium on this happening until we can understand the risks of this environmental issue
Click HERE

More reading-

http://www.ewg.org/drillingaroundthelaw

http://www.earthworksaction.org/LOguidechapters.cfm

http://www.nytimes.com/gwire/2010/06/21/21greenwire-in-fracking-debate-disclosure-is-in-the-eye-of-19087.html

http://www.vanityfair.com/business/features/2010/06/fracking-in-pennsylvania-201006

http://www.newsweek.com/2008/08/19/a-toxic-spew.html

http://www.endocrinedisruption.com/home.php

What is the Dispersant Corexit?

2010-06-08T21:35:00.006-04:00

There are many people now trying to figure out what this mystery chemical dispersant that BP is using to make the oil "Disappear", as if that's possible.

It's called Corexit.
Corexit is being sprayed on top of the water to disperse the oil below the surface.

Out of sight, out of mind, right? "Corexit is a neurotoxin pesticide that is acutely toxic to both human and aquatic life, causes cancer, causes damage to internal organs such as the liver and kidneys simply by absorbing it through the skin and may cause reproductive side effects" Harmless? Doesn't sound like it.. Read more..

EPA orders BP to Cut back Dispersant

The Amount Of Neurotoxin Pesticide Corexit Sprayed By BP Tops 1 Million Gallons

So I started thinking, maybe we should read about what happened after the Exxon Valdez spill..

Lessons from the Exxon Valdez spill

Chemicals Present Environmental Concerns

My Body Trio Picks

2010-06-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

Anti-Bug Balm
By Badger..This nice handy balm comes in a small tin, you can fit anywhere! I garden a lot, so this is the perfect remedy for those pesky insects to steer clear! The fresh citronella scent is lovely and certified organic.. Lather me up!

Peaceful Patchouli Moisturizer By Kiss My Face..OOh I particularly love this Scent..Yum! It is a nice light moisturizer that is quickly absorbed into the skin with a light scent. This is my favorite, but all the scents are all wonderful.. Nice to put on after those cool showers!

Traditional Gardenia Oil
By Yves Rocher...I love this scent, It smells wonderfully tropical! I use this in my hair in the summer. Besides smelling great, It adds beautiful highlights and moisture on those hot n dry days.

Movie to watch- End of the LIne

2010-06-01T07:49:00.000-04:00

In honor of the Etsy Earth Team who is devoting their June blog posts to the Ocean,
My movie to watch is
The End of t he Line

This Documentary focuses on the issue of fishing and overfishing in our seas. They predict that by 2048, the sea life as we know it will be diminished. The movie showcases how the consumer can take responsibility and make conscious changes in the way we eat and purchase fish.

If you eat fish, you need to see this!

An excerpt taken from the website says-

"The End of the Line, the first major feature documentary film revealing the impact of overfishing on our oceans, had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in the World Cinema Documentary Competition. Sundance took place in Park City, Utah, January 15-25, 2009.

In the film we see firsthand the effects of our global love affair with fish as food.

It examines the imminent extinction of bluefin tuna, brought on by increasing western demand for sushi; the impact on marine life resulting in huge overpopulation of jellyfish; and the profound implications of a future world with no fish that would bring certain mass starvation.

Filmed over two years, The End of the Line follows the investigative reporter Charles Clover as he confronts politicians and celebrity restaurateurs, who exhibit little regard for the damage they are doing to the oceans.

One of his allies is the former tuna farmer turned whistleblower Roberto Mielgo – on the trail of those destroying the world's magnificent bluefin tuna population.

Filmed across the world – from the Straits of Gibraltar to the coasts of Senegal and Alaska to the Tokyo fish market – featuring top scientists, indigenous fishermen and fisheries enforcement officials, The End of the Line is a wake-up call to the world."

A little Beauty

2010-05-30T19:42:00.004-04:00

My Poppies just Bloomed
How Beautiful!!

Georgia O'Keefe anyone??

My Morning and Waterlife..movie to watch

2010-05-26T11:01:00.004-04:00

I had quite the wild kingdom morning..2 huge bunnies munching on grass, a baby groundhog watching me feed the chickens and a meditating frog perched on the pond barley ball, all within 2 hours in my yard. As I captured Mr. frog with my camera, it reminded me about the movie I just happened to catch on Sundance channel called Waterlife

It is a beautifully done movie, focusing on the Great Lakes and their fresh water supply. I was shocked and saddened by what I learned, but think there is definitely a show of hope and promise about what we can learn from all they show in this film. Just a little tid bit I learned from the movie... Drinking water facilities can remove sediment, sewage, creating the normal tap water that we use everyday. It cannot remove antibiotics, anti-depressants, flame retardants, prescription drugs. It also quoted 2 companies who bottle this tap water and sell it to us as bottled water. Drink Up!

Their website is also great, very creative, interactive and informative. It can read like a book and you can follow the pages to learn more.

It's a movie you need to see!

Need To See Movie- We Are Public

2010-05-24T21:36:00.006-04:00

Ever wonder where all this social networking came about?
facebook, blogging, twitter, webcams, chat rooms....

Well look no further!!!! Go and Watch..
We Live in Public

"Ten years in the making and culled from 5000 hours of footage, WE LIVE IN PUBLIC reveals the effect the web is having on our society, as seen through the eyes of “the greatest Internet pioneer you’ve never heard of”, artist, futurist and visionary Josh Harris. Award-winning director Ondi Timoner (DIG! – which also won the Sundance Grand Jury Prize in 2004 – making Timoner the only director to win that prestigious award twice) documented his tumultuous life for more than a decade to create a riveting, cautionary tale of what to expect as the virtual world inevitably takes control of our lives" -exerpt from their website
It's a pretty amazing thing to watch an idea come to life and basically inspire a revolution of web based social networking that has taken over all our lives..
If you use these things..You Need To Watch This!

Need To See Movie- Who Killed the Electric Car

2010-04-29T17:01:00.003-04:00

Who Killed The Electric Car

Writer/Director Chris Paine

This is a very shocking movie. As I never was aware any full electric cars were made years ago and was in perfect use until it disappeared without a trace. It is a perplexing and frustrating real life documentary movie with a shocking outcome that leaves you questioning whether these large companies are interested in creating sustainable products at all!

If you drive or are interested in sustainability, you need to watch this!!
Check your local library,rent on netflix or buy this.

Need To See Movie - Food Inc.

2010-04-20T17:26:00.004-04:00

FOOD INC.

Robert Kenner, producer/director

Eric Schlosser, co-producer

In this day of highly mechanized food production and factory farming, we all should be aware of how our food is created, manufactured and presented. This is a great eye opening movie to let us peak inside this big bad world of food and see what we are really eating.

An excerpt from their website -

"In Food, Inc., filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the veil on our nation's food industry, exposing the highly mechanized underbelly that has been hidden from the American consumer with the consent of our government's regulatory agencies, USDA and FDA. Our nation's food supply is now controlled by a handful of corporations that often put profit ahead of consumer health, the livelihood of the American farmer, the safety of workers and our own environment. We have bigger-breasted chickens, the perfect pork chop, herbicide-resistant soybean seeds, even tomatoes that won't go bad, but we also have new strains of E. coli—the harmful bacteria that causes illness for an estimated 73,000 Americans annually. We are riddled with widespread obesity, particularly among children, and an epidemic level of diabetes among adults."

If you eat, you need to watch it!

You can rent it on Netflix Or visit their website

A Need To see Movie- Addicted to Plastic

2010-04-09T16:50:00.005-04:00

Addicted To Plastic

Directed by Ian Connacher
Produced by Cryptic Moth Productions
Camera: Ian Connacher, Gad Reichman
Music Supervision: Oliver Johnson courtesy of the Hive
Editors: Martyn Iannece, Gad Reichman, Kevin Rollins

Do you use plastics??? Then you need to see this!!

I rented this film on Netflix. It was truly an appalling and very informative movie, documenting various places where plastic litter has damaged wildlife, habitats and oceans. The movie also talks about the toxic ingredients in plastic, hormonal changes and BPA. You'll be shocked and changed forever!
An exerpt from the movies website says-

"Addicted To Plastic is a point-of-view style documentary that encompasses three years of filming in 12 countries on 5 continents, including two trips to the middle of the Pacific Ocean where plastic debris accumulates. The film details plastic's path over the last 100 years and provides a wealth of expert interviews on practical and cutting edge solutions to recycling, toxicity and biodegradability. These solutions - which include plastic made from plants - will provide viewers with a new perspective about our future with plastic."

To read more about this movie, Please visit their website at-

BullFrogFilms

My Need To See Movie List

2010-04-09T16:40:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Netflix, Sundance Channel and International Film Channel (IFC), I've been able to see some very interesting and informative movies that I've started to compile and think each one is a great movie to pass along to anyone who's interested in learning something about our world and society. In my next couple of blog posts, I'll go into each one and focus on what the movie is about.

I hope you will leave any other movies I should add and watch as well, in the comments! The movies will be in no particular rated order, but just listed randomly. My first will be a movie titled "Addicted To Plastic".

Just a couple more days...

2010-03-28T10:51:00.004-04:00

Till the chosen winner of any Ecoleeko rattle gets the word you won! Sign up now if you haven't! It's super easy! just visit Organic Girls Giveaways blog and comment which you like better. For more options, please read how to increase your chances. You have till April 5th!!

Ecoleeko celebrates Earth day with Vegan Samples Bags!

2010-03-17T18:35:00.005-04:00

If you've never heard of it, you have to check it out! It's a sampler that comes in a great reusable bag, full of great samples of different Etsy shop sellers that make vegan friendly products. Your samples can range from soap, jewelry, prints, stickers, pins and some other lovely fun things. You never know what you'll get!
The Earth day bags will be on sale soon and run $15-$25! And Ecoleeko has contributed fun leaf and cloud bean bag friends!

All profits will go to a chosen animal charity that is voted on by participants!
So support a great cause and sample some of Etsy's best!

See who's contributing!

Vote for the animal charity the proceeds will go to!

Soon to be up-Purchase an earth day bag!

Ecoleeko Giveaway!!!

2010-03-04T14:02:00.005-05:00

Sign up for a
FREE Ecoleeko Rattle Giveaway!
Starts March 3rd till April 5th 2010

Just Visit Organic Girl Blog By clicking on the image above and Follow the easy instructions.
You can choose your very own from an assortment. Just visit Ecoleeko to pick your favorite !

Fun in the Snow

2010-02-26T11:30:00.003-05:00

After finding out this morning our chicken coop tent collapsed, we scrambled to find a solution and spent all morning outside in 30" of snow. After I resigned to my wet pant legs, I decided to take advantage of all this snow and make a snowman..I mean bunny as it turns out!I was meant to be a snowman, then a dog, then well..a bunny. With branches for whiskers and mushroom eyes (you use what you got!), my bunny came to life. She sits on our front yard wishing everyone a happy winter!

New Handmade Eco Baby Registry

2010-02-20T19:36:00.004-05:00

I always have wanted to set up a page so expecting mommies and daddies can register for their favorite handmade items. Well now they can! Choose your favorite Ecoleeko items and I can set up a registry you can give to your family and friends. Usually expecting parents will want to register at a couple of places to find every thing they need. Why not choose some hand made eco-friendly baby items as well? It's super easy and simple! Just-

View the Ecoleeko website and choose what you love
Email me your list and I will send you a couple of questions regarding your shower
I will set up an easy link for you to give out
I can even create cards you can include in your invites!
It's that easy!!!

To view the Registry details and how it works, visit the Ecoleeko Baby Registry .

HeartsforHaiti

2010-01-31T16:33:00.005-05:00

I came across this amazing Etsy shop set up to support the Haitian people in this great time of need. All items are donated by Etsy shops and will be sold through the Etsy shop Hearts for Haiti

All proceeds, (minus etsy and paypal fees) will then be donated to Doctors without Borders. It is an amazing cause and a wonderful way to purchase something and know you are also supporting the Earthquake relief efforts at the same time. All purchased items are sent Free of Charge to you, so you pay no S/H fees. Their theme is Hearts for Haiti, and have some wonderful gifts for this Valentines Holiday.

I have also donated a new limited time Ecoleeko item, Shake Me Love Bug to their shop! And have more Shake Me Love Bugs for sale on my website with $10 from each sale going to the Haitian Health Foundation.

Please visit their shop and make your purchase count this Valentines Day!

New Ecoleeko Website is Up!

2010-01-19T13:46:00.003-05:00

I am proud to reveal the new improved Ecoleeko website. After many days of learning dreamweaver and designing pages, it is finally posted on my site and will be a better organized and interactive site for Ecoleeko customers. Some new features include-

A New Products page
New Play and Snuggles products
Easy Ordering instructions
Clean & Simple pages and graphics
Faster upload and ordering
All access pages with all links on each page

Please take a look and enjoy!

Magazine Feature

2010-01-17T17:31:00.005-05:00

Better late than never! ..I just found out MooBelle cow was featured in the September 2009 issue of HOUR Detroit magazine on page 42 under A-List Tips & Trends!! The section talks about Root & Sprout, a retailer shop Ecoleeko is in in Birmingham Michigan.

(The magazine is oversized so I couldn't get whole page in scanner)

New Years!!

2009-12-29T17:27:00.005-05:00

Wishing Everyone a Very Happy New Year 2010!!!
Time to think about those resolutions..Think of what you want for yourself in the next year, Maybe that set aside dream you always wanted to follow? A hobby you wanted to start but held off? What a perfect time to start!

Here's some small n easy New Years ideas:
-Get a start on clearing and cleaning house and donate what you don't use anymore.
-How about changing up a room to a new furniture set up?
-Find some brand new music this year..www.pandora.com is great for that..and free!
-Try a new dish next time you go out to eat!
-Learn how to bake or cook something you always wanted to know how
-Make something handmade for someone as a gift
-Volunteer at a local nonprofit/charity or donate to a good cause
-Set aside a 1/2 or 1 hour for yourself each day to relax! Take a bath, meditate, read a good book, dance in your room, or just lay and daydream!
-Tell someone you love them when you can!

No guilt! No Race! Just enjoy your New Year and appreciate it all!!

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-22T08:36:00.003-05:00

From My House to Yours!

Wishing You all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
~Sue

Holiday Gift Wrap Ideas

2009-12-17T08:50:00.005-05:00

The Holiday is coming up quick and that means it's time to wrap lots of presents! Oh the choices we have! Let's think of some fun ones, you may already have materials in your house to do..
First, try and use up all your leftover wrap from last year before buying more. I'll treat myself sometimes and buy 1 roll to use that's new to add in. Try and find recycled gift wrap. It's out there! And it's important to try and use recycled everything when you can. Just be sure and read the labels.

Good other materials you can use for giftwrap are:
- Using newspaper with nice twine or bright ribbons to offset the neutral color
- Leftover wall paper (untreated on the back)
-Try using a recycled magazine, take out the staples and use the sheets as wrap. This can be a fun glossy brightly colored alternative!
- Print designs on kraft paper - You can use fabric you may have. Play with wrapping it like a big candy and tying ribbon at both ends, or maybe using safety pins to adds some details?
- To make packages more fun, wrap gifts in various styles and designs.

Good materials to use for ribbons are:
-Any ribbons leftover from last years packages, reuse!
-Ribbon, lace or fabric you may have. -Raffia, paper ribbon
-Yarns work amazing! Use a fun novelty one!

Once you have the ribbons, add on:
-Any ornaments you may have you can pass along to a friend or family member
-A small toy, little decorations of any kind or bells
-Cinnamon sticks, Dried flowers, Holly or evergreen sprigs

When the package is just about ready, we need a tag!
-Make your own easily by cutting out paper and hand writing a note
-Use a stamp you can buy at a craft store that says TO and FROM, use on anything!
-Use sticker labels, using less paper and adheres easily to the paper.

Gift wrapping can be fun! Put on some Christmas music and spend the evening with a nice cup of tea and wrap away!

Easy - Make Your Own Christmas Wreath

2009-12-13T09:11:00.005-05:00

This year, everyone is trying to conserve in every way, so why do the same with decorating? No need to go and spend a bundle on decorations for your house. We can make it look like the holidays for free.. Or almost free!

First, Make your own wreath! Have a pine or two in your backyard? In simple steps you can create your own wreathe and hang it in just an afternoon. All you need is sprigs of evergreen branches, at least 10"-12" long, some wire and a round base to wrap them to. Usually you can buy a frame for $2 or less (almost free), Or create your own wire circle shape or use an old wreath frame you may have lying around.

Start by tying the wire on the frame in one area. (If using a frame that you bought, make sure the curve of the frame faces down.) This is where you will start.

Grab a bundle of the evergreen, about 2-4 pieces, lay them down, all facing one direction, and wrap the wire around it all 2 x. While keeping the wire taut, next, grab another bundle of pine and do the same.

Continue until you have the wreath covered with evergreen. In the last place, fill with evergreen as before until looks full, wrap the wire around 2x and turn the wreathe over, holding the wire taut. Tie it to the frame and cut.

Now, hold up your beautiful wreath and observe which angle would be best for hanging. Trim any edges that may look unruly. Turn over, and create a wire hanger by tying the wire on, make a U and thread it to another part of the frame, then double the wire back over the U and twist it around the original wire. Tie to frame and cut. This reinforces the frame hanger.

Now, turn it over and let's decorate!! Have some ribbon laying around from some old project? If it will be outside, choose a stiffer ribbon to deal with rain, wind, etc. To put any decorations on the wreath, just wrap it with wire at one spot and then tie on to wreath from front, twist the wire to back. You can decorate the wreath with almost anything! Let your kids choose fun stuff like little toys, use found pine cones in your backyard, make some fake berries you have from an old decoration, any Christmas tree decorations you aren't using this year? Put them on!

Remember, you can make the wreath any size you want, use any decorations and ribbon you like and when you are done, you've made a wonderful decoration for your house that cost you next to nothing! Happy Holidays!!

12th Day of Christmas

2009-12-12T09:43:00.012-05:00

On the 12th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Everything I need to host a Christmas party for my family!!!

11th Day of Christmas

2009-12-11T10:15:00.006-05:00

On the 11th day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Lovely Handmade Jewelry to adorn me!

10th Day of Christmas

2009-12-10T09:24:00.007-05:00

On the 10th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me....
Gifts for Nights of Sweet Dreams!!

9th day of Christmas

2009-12-09T08:34:00.007-05:00

On the 9th day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Art to Wear!

8th Day of Christmas

2009-12-08T09:40:00.007-05:00

On the 8th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Cool Kitchen Items!!!

7th Day of Christmas

2009-12-07T09:09:00.014-05:00

On the 7th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Stockings stuffed with Beautiful Gifts all under $10!!!!

6th Day of Christmas

2009-12-06T09:16:00.006-05:00

On the 6th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
The Most Wonderful Dog Gifts!

5th Day of Christmas

2009-12-05T09:15:00.006-05:00

On the 5th Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me....
Yummy Christmas Sweets!

4th Day of Christmas

2009-12-04T08:49:00.007-05:00

On the 4th Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me....
Spa n Bath Goodies!

Gifts for winter play,
Garden gifts galore
and perfect gifts for a nursery!

3rd Day of Christmas

2009-12-03T09:22:00.008-05:00

On the 3rd Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...Snuggly Warm gifts for Winter play!

Garden Gifts Galore
and some perfect gifts for a nursery!

2nd Day of Christmas...

2009-12-01T20:29:00.008-05:00

On The Second Day of Christmas, My true love gave to me...
Garden Gifts Galore!

...And some perfect gifts..
for a Nursery!

Every day from Dec1 st through Dec12, I'll be posting some of my favorite Handmade Etsy finds perfect for gift giving! Be sure to come back and see new great gift ideas!

1st Day of Christmas

2009-11-26T12:10:00.008-05:00

On The 1st day of Christmas, My True Love gave to me....

Perfect Handmade Gifts for a nursery!

12 days of Christmas

2009-11-26T11:06:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

It's almost Gift giving time, and to start it off, I will be hosting the 12 days of Christmas on my blog. Each of the 12 days, I will be featuring 4 wonderful etsy items that I love! It starts Tuesday, December 1st. Each day will be a different theme and focus on great gifts for the holidays. Be sure to check it out!

Ecoleekos Winter Schedule..

2009-10-30T14:33:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone, I've been MIA on my blog, but I'll try to be better! I wanted to share my Winter/Holiday schedule in case you are around the CNY area and want to visit, see other wonderful crafts and artwork and snag a little Ecoleeko!

First off is... The Herkimer County Art and Craft Fair on Saturday November 14th 10-5pm and Sunday November 15th 10-4pm at the Herkimer County Community College on 100 Reservoir Road, Herkimer, NY 13350. For more information please visit- the Herkimer County Community College Events Page

Next is...The Earlville Opera House 12th annual Holiday Arts Crafts Show starting Friday November 27th 10-4pm, Saturday November 28th 10-4pm and Sunday November 29th 12-4pm as well as.. Saturday December 5th 10-4 pm & Sunday 6th 12-4pm Saturday December 12th 10-4pm & Sunday 13th 12-4pm Saturday December 19th 10-4pm & Sunday 20th 12-4pm at the Earlville Opera House Gallery on 18 E Main St, Earlville, NY 13332. For more information please visit- The Earlville Opera House

Third..Might be the Indie Garage Sale on December 12th 10-8pm located at 1607 Genesee St. Utica, NY 13501 ..More information to follow, please visit- The Indie Garage Sale

And last but not least, I will be at the 1st annual Winter Hamilton Farmers market located at the St. Thomas Episcopal Church on 12.5 Madison Street, Hamilton NY 13346. Up to 20 vendors each Saturday from 9-1pm featuring handmade crafts, food and farmed goods. Dates are-
Nov 28th, Dec. 19th, Jan 16th, Feb. 20th, Mar. 20th, Apr. 17th
For more information please email sltruett@gmail.com

A Little Extra..
I will also have some of my recycled robots, made of recycled metal parts, cans and misc. materials at The MAD Art Gallery 3rd annual Holiday Show & Sale starting Friday November 6th 12-6pm and runs through January 16th. Open Fridays 12-6pm and Saturdays 10-4pm. Silent Auction & Opening Reception on December 5th 5-7pm. The MAD Art Gallery is located on Lebanon Street in Lebanon Alley, Hamilton, NY 13346. For more information please visit- The MAD Art Gallery

Water is a right

2009-09-10T15:29:00.004-04:00

Please take a look at Flow the movie. This was an appalling look into the water today and what is to become of water in the future. I watched it in awe, originally on Sundance channel, and it is still running if you have their channel. Just visit their site to find out when. It is really important we know what is going on with our natural resources.

They are also seeking to add an amendment, Article 31 to ensure everyone has the right to water.

"We, the undersigned, respectfully call upon the United Nations to add a 31st article to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, establishing access to clean and potable water as a fundamental human right.

We believe the world will be a better place when the Right To Water is acknowledged by all nations as a fundamental human right, and that this addition to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights represents a major step toward the goal of water for all."

Please take a look and show your support by adding your name to the list!

My CPSIA Labeling Law Solution

2009-08-28T15:06:00.006-04:00

Well, as many small businesses that create children or baby toys or products have learned, the CPSIA has created the need for "track labels", where the manufacturer now has to have labels that can be used to track merchandise, show when it was made, where it's from, etc. That way the manufacturer can know what materials were used when, if there should ever be an issue with a product. To read more about this law visit..http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/sect103.html

So in light of this, I had to come up with a way I could abide by the law and not spend too much money. Since I'm a hands on person, I decided to continue as I have been, and stamp my own tags!

Before, I had just stamped my company name on the fabric tape and sewed it in. Now I do the same process, but have created a much larger stamp...

-I first, designed a tag template on adobe photoshop, any design software would work.
-I measured the tape and decided how large I wanted the tag to be, and then designed accordingly.
-I uploaded my design to an online stamp company and ordered it, it was very simple and inexpensive.
-I then located a fabric stamp ink pad online that can be heat set to be made permanent. For the separate small initial and date stamps, I just cut up some small translucent/clear stamps you can find at any local craft store in their stamp section.(After everything, not including the twill tape, I spent about $25-30 on stamping materials, but will have them to use for a very long time, so it's not a bad way to go!)

I wanted my name/logo on one side and when folded, the tag would have the rest of the information, such as-

- materials used
- city, state, it was manufactured in
- item id
- date of manufacturing, which was determined to be once the product was finished
I would then stamp the date and item id separate. Above, you can see the tag laying flat open not folded as it would be sewn in to an item. The item ID is "W" and the date of manufacturing of DOM is A9, which to me is August 2009. It unfortunately takes more time than my previous tags, printing the item and dates, but is legal and has more information for the consumer.

Modern Handmade Child magazine

2009-08-25T09:05:00.005-04:00

Etsy Kids has put out a wonderful online FREE magazine titled Modern Handmade Child. It has wonderful showcase of different children's items all lovingly handmade, as well as recipes, craft ideas, interviews, etc!
My waddle doll was featured on one of the pages!
Be sure to grab some tea and take a break to browse this wonderful FREE magazine!

A Must Read! CPSIA Update on Lead testing

2009-08-07T09:18:00.004-04:00

If you make things for or have children you need to read this! It's a very promising start! fingers crossed!

Ok, So it's a 94 page read..

But what I and so many other soft artisans are looking for is between pages 5 and 25..The addressing of an exemption on testing natural materials and other man-made materials dyed or un-dyed as well as many other product components..Although, if you use binder pigment ink, it does still make screen-printed inks, decals and such still in a list of things to be tested due to the possible materials in the ink binder.

(Easy! Just click on and download, read in adobe reader)

Children's Products Containing Lead; Determinations Regarding Lead Content Limits on Certain Materials or Products; Final Rule, Ballot Vote Sheet, August 6, 2009 <http://www.cpsc.gov/library/foia/foia09/ brief/leadfinalrule.pdf>

AAh Summer..Finally?

2009-07-25T19:15:00.004-04:00

Looks like summer weather is finally here, it's only July 24th! HA! Geez, where did it all go? I've been doing the farmers market, keeping busy with home projects and making more ecoleeko items! Newly posted on Etsy is Bock Bock Chicken.

Made of soft sustainable bamboo fleece and all natural fillings of course! Also coming soon are Fuzz Baa Lina Sheepy Farm Friend and Touch Me Snake! Bock Bock is inspired by my 23 chickens that love to bock at each other. We now also have a brooding hen barred rock that won't let you at the eggs when we collect them. The Sheep is inspired by sheep of course! I've always loved them and used to go to sheep and wool festivals in Maryland. The snake is inspired by our gardener snake family that lives in our back garden bed. They love to sun themselves on the steps and sometimes I almost step on them. They are fun to watch and slide and slither around the flowers.
I'll be also doing some local craft shows to feel my way in CNY. First is the Clinton Art & Music Festival on August 29th in Clinton NY. I also am doing one in November, The Herkimer County Arts & Crafts Fair on November 14th & 15th in Herkimer, NY. Please join my newsletter on the side for more upcoming information on these shows and new products!

the 3/50 project

2009-07-17T16:00:00.001-04:00

A Great cause! You can visit their site at the350project

2009-07-17T09:07:00.001-04:00

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July 4th Double Show!

2009-07-01T22:06:00.001-04:00

Ecoleeko will be set up at The CNY Etsy Team Show and Sale at Porter Studio and Fine Art gallery on 20 Broad Street, Hamilton NY from 9am-3pm AND at the 4th of July Farmers Market on the village green from 7am-3pm in the center of Hamilton NY this Saturday, July 4th all day!! You can't miss all the fun!

The wonderful hometown parade starts around 10-11ish ( this year the theme is GREEN!), but before hand, check out the wonderful art and craft at the CNY Etsy show! After the parade, mingle on the green, have great food and come say Hi to me at my booth! I'll be in Hamilton all day!

Summer CNYEtsy Shows

2009-06-19T11:13:00.003-04:00

The CNYEtsy Team will participate in it's very first shows this summer! It's very exciting and there are a lot of great artisans showing their work at both shows. You can even get a 10% discount for a participating members purchase on the local postcards! Just visit me at the Hamilton Farmers market any Saturday to pick one up. They also are available at Porters studio in Hamilton and at the MADArt Gallery. You can also email me and I will send you one if you will be in the CNY Area July 4th or August 29th!

For more information please visit the CNYEtsy Team Blog

Ecoleeko in Pregnancy & Newborn magazine

2009-06-05T20:10:00.004-04:00

Shake Me Flower is pleasantly published in the New June 2009 issue of Pregnancy & Newborn magazine! Turn to page 33, and who can resist Shake Me Flower rattle all colorful and bright!

Etsy Baby Customer Appreciation Sales!!

2009-06-01T13:15:00.004-04:00

You are invited to come grab some amazing discounts on participation EtsyBaby members shops!!! Do you have a little one or know of someone who does? This is a great opportunity to support handmade and buy beautiful items and gifts on sale! Ecoleeko is participating as well!! Just visit
http://shopetsybaby.com/ebca

New Organic Baby Snuggle Blankets

2009-05-27T20:13:00.005-04:00

Just posted my new Snuggle Baby Blanket on Etsy!!
Made of Organic Cotton Fleece Backing
With a lovely soft brushed Cotton that I hand dyed a beautiful light blue.
Each blanket has soft bamboo fleece tags for fun play
and a hand embroidered sweet Polar bear face perfect for chewing.

Creating a Craft Show Inventory list

2009-05-17T13:05:00.004-04:00

Creating an inventory list for your upcoming shows can be easy and keep you organized.. I created an inventory list after researching what to bring to shows, what you'd forget, need, want, etc. I then used word, but you could use any program to make it in. I first made an area for the date on the top, like..
CRAFT SHOW DATE_______

Then a list for my inventory on the left side, Like..
Item QTY
Doll 1 ___
Doll 2 ___
Doll 3 ___ And so forth, this way, I can keep track of what my inventory is, what I brought and what I leave with.

Then on the Right side I made a list of materials I need, Like..

MATERIALS
___ Tent
___ Tables
___ Money box

And so forth. That way, before I pack, I check off everything so I make sure I have it.

(Some simple forgotten ideas I've found are..pens, double stick tape, scissors, stapler, free giveaways/candy, stamps or stickers, tablecloth weights or clips, camera, something to do or sketchbook, chairs, lunch, drinks, extra socks or gloves for cold mornings, extra price signs if needed.)

I then added a box at the bottom for notes to remember at my next show. I may change that eventually to maybe an area to write my sales. I find I'll jot a list of them there anyway, along with messages of other things to bring, peoples contacts, etc. Really anything you want to remember.

Everytime I do a show, the night before, I print one out, write in the date and inventory. Check off my materials and put it in my binder, that way I have it with me and it keeps a record of my shows and inventory. I've found it's a great way to keep me organized.. Maybe it can help you too!

Down on the farm.....ers market!

2009-05-09T13:20:00.005-04:00

Ecoleeko's first summer on the Village Green in Hamilton New York, in the farmers market! Here are some photos of my first weeks set up..It has changed and I'm sure will progress during the summer, as I learn of better ways to display different items. Luckily I came across these inexpensive metal CD holders to display the Bath Mitts upright. I created those cloud and tree displays from crates and wood which my husband helped cut..I'm not a jigsaw pro what so ever! Then painted and stamped with leaves.
I created the sign out of leftover canvas that I had painted on years ago. It easily was sewn and hemmed. As you can see, I also made sure I had a good supply of any postcards or brochures to hand out!
The back banner is also made from repainted canvas, which I then added grommets to and whalla, an inexpensive sign! The easy Up I acquired years ago, and is very nice to have for any show event.
I lastly, made a small painted wood sign to hang from the corner with a plant hanger so everyone can see who's inside!

Some good ideas I found while researching were..
-Have a way to accept credit cards..I started with propay. You just get a 'knucklebuster and some forms, accept their cards and process online. Very easy and great for larger purchases.
-Create a mailing list for emails or addresses so you can build a local mailing
-Have postcards, bus. cards, brochures available for free
-Bring socks, mittens, etc for weather changes..you never know!
-Have a place to keep your paperwork. I created a small folio where I keep my market permit, tax sign, market map, policies, etc. It's easy and I know where my info is at all times.
-Since I'm so anal, HA!, I also created a checklist I print out the day before the market or show. This week, I'll describe what's on it and how to make one yourself!

Other CNY Artists- HofmeyerStudio Pottery

2009-05-03T15:09:00.003-04:00

My first day at the Farmers Market came and went fast yesterday, but not without meeting my fellow artisans! I met Jessica, who makes beautiful pottery in Munnsville NY. She recently moved here from Maine and will be next to me at The Hamilton farmers Market this Summer. Come by and see her beautiful work! For more information, visit her website at-
www.hofmeyerstudios.com

Ecoleeko at The Hamilton Saturday Farmers Market

2009-04-30T18:10:00.006-04:00

Ecoleeko will be at the Saturday Farmers Market located on the Village Green in Hamilton New York for the first time. Come by and see all the local fabulous crafters and artisans, local organic farmers, cheese makers, honey, grass fed meats, beautiful flowers and herbs and much more!
It is a great market, open every Saturday 8 am to 1 pm, from Opening day on May 2nd and runs all the way till November.
I will be located in the center of the market, just look for the Ecoleeko sign! I have created all new displays and banners for the summer, so it should be fun! I will be selling all my eco-friendly goods. I'll post pictures next week of my tent and the market! Come by and say HI!!!!

Spring has Sprung! Or has Summer?

2009-04-27T19:32:00.010-04:00

Ladies in waiting..

The First Ladies in Yellow..

Thanks to this crazy 80-90 degree weather we've been having..All the daffodils shot up within a week and even the tulips are gearing up to bloom. I've taken some pictures of the new daffodil bulbs my dad got me last fall. They are so beautiful and frilly! I've never seen some of the types before and they are all so different. The tulips are in waiting and are ready to go.

We moved our ducks and chicks outside to enjoy the fresh air, also because the ducks like to make messes, if you didn't know. They love to get in the water and spill it on everything, so grass is great..no need to clean up! Also, they are all getting so big so fast, it's pretty amazing to watch. Even the chicks are turning different colors, the yellow get white and the rust get darker.

Next on the bloom list are the lilacs and apple trees...ooh!

Vegan sample bags now on Sale!

2009-04-14T13:44:00.006-04:00

The Etsy Vegan Sample bag have just gone on sale today.
10% of sales will be given to http://fortheanimalssanctuary.org/
They featured samples from a ton of cool Etsy shops including Ecoleeko!! Including..

Please check out the Vegan Samples Etsy shop and support fortheanimalssanctuary.org!
at vegansamples.etsy.com

Duckies and Chicks!

2009-04-09T17:19:00.005-04:00

My Chickies and Duckies have arrived just in time for Easter! I can sit in my studio and hear them cheep cheepin! We have 10 chickens and a rooster now and they will be joined by our new bundle of babies when they get older..Ah..if they could only stay this cute and fuzzy forever!

The Duckies like to stay together, they are a Duckie gang..but are known to try and nibble on a chickie or two. They are all so delicate and gentle, and like to sit in the palm of your hand. You can't look at those faces or web feet without oohing and aahing...Just makes you smile(:

HR 875 - No more Farmers Markets?

2009-04-03T11:08:00.007-04:00

(Photo of Rochester farmers Market)
I been notified of a new Bill that was introduced, HR 875. If it passes it could cause the death of farmers markets, most CSAs, farmstands and even small family farms . HR 875 or the Food Safety Modernization Act of 2009 seems to fail in promoting food safety. It seems to create greater problems for already struggling small farms and farmers markets. It says that anyone who produces food of any kind - meat, milk, fruit, vegetables and transports that food for sale would be subject to warrant less government inspections of their farms and food production records.

"These random inspections can be conducted at the whim of federal agents without regard to farmers rights or property rights. Further, the law would allow federal agents to confiscate records, product as they see fit as part of the inspection process." They could also state restrictions on regarding how farm animals can be fed, how fields are managed and the end result could mean the end of organic, biodynamic and sustainable agriculture practices as these practices are deemed "unsafe."

Farmers refusing to comply would be subject to penalties. "The penalty for not denying federal agents unlimited, random access to a farm's fields, properties, products and records is $1,000,000. The penalty for not registering is $1,000,000." "This law would affect every farmer or food producer who must transport his goods to sell them - in effect, every single farmer. That means that an orchard that sells fresh fruit at a roadside stand would be affected; a farmer who delivers CSA boxes would be affected, even a home gardener who brings excess harvest to a farmers market's community booth would have to register or be subject to $1,000,000 fines and that garden plot would be subject to inspection by federal agents. Ridiculous, isn't it? But it's true."

-Exerpts in quotes directly taken from http://vinlands-volva.blogspot.com

To read more visit HERE
To read the law visit LAW
More info at Slow food blog
Sign the petition online at Sign the petition

My Recycled Robots in ReArt ReUse Exhibit

2009-03-28T18:11:00.003-04:00

The MADArt gallery is putting on an Exhibit at the Palace Theater in Hamilton NY. It's titled ReArt ReUse, where they showcase recycled materials made into art! They have some great works made from recycled magazines, bronze and wood. I was lucky to have one of my robots I created from collected cans and parts to be showcased on the poster! The exhibit runs from March 28th till May 23rd. You can visit the Palace Theater HERE
To watch a short You Tube Video of the display, CLICK HERE

Be Sure to come by and check it out!!

Cosa Verde

2009-03-23T18:03:00.004-04:00

Ecoleeko is now on Cosaverde, "a new marketplace
connecting independent and emerging artists
with environmentally-conscious consumers."

To read more about Cosa Verde and their mission click HERE

What you Eat.."Maggots in your Mushrooms"

2009-03-19T11:44:00.007-04:00

My dad sent me a NYT Article called "Maggots in your Mushrooms". I had to find the FDA Resource "The Food Defect Action Levels" to see if it was true, and sure enough all 35 pages verify everything! You have to take a look..It's crazy!
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/dalbook.html

Ecoleeko Mini Mushroom Samples

2009-03-11T19:56:00.002-04:00

You can take a peek at the Mini Mushroom samples for the Vegan Sampler HERE
Along with other great samples!!!

Ecoleeko in Vegan Sampler!

2009-02-23T15:56:00.003-05:00

Ecoleeko is a proud contributor to a Vegan Sampler Bag Sale! I will submit 50 special surprise Ecoleeko samples to be included in the bags along with 49 other contributors! All items will be "Vegan" and come in a handmade reusable grocery bag! As the excerpt from the Vegan Sample site states-

"Vegan doesn't apply to just foods, it applies to many items many people don't even think about. The following ingredients are NOT vegan: silk, honey, goat's milk, wool, leather, sugar (unless you know it is from a non-charcoal using process), beeswax, emu oil, Coral, Bone, Leather, Pearls (genuine saltwater or freshwater - glass pearls are OK, of course), feathers, milk, butter, angora, mohair, wool, cashmere, shell, gelatin."

The bags will go on sale on April 14th and 10% of the proceeds will go to a chosen animal charity to be announced. Please visit the site and support a great cause!!

Are you a crafter/artisan interested in joining the sampler? Contact Heather to see if there are still spots left.....
"Anything that is made without animal products and the ingredients or materials arent tested on animals. Vegan doesnt just pertain to food. Soaps, food, jewelry, papercrafts, animal toys and treats, buttons, magnets, handknit items....If you have a craft and arent sure if your samples would be vegan, please feel free to email me at ecosampler@yahoo.com and I would be glad to clarify!"

2009-02-16T12:09:00.000-05:00

Ecoleeko Bath Mittens featured on Daily Candy Kids in Philadelphia!!
Click HERE to read!

Guidance Regarding the CPSIA for small Businesses

2009-02-10T16:38:00.003-05:00

Here's a new report put out by the CPSC for FAQ..Pretty easy to understand too!

Guidance on the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA)
for Small Businesses, Resellers, Crafters and Charities

http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/smbus/cpsiasbguide.html

CPSC New Update on Enforcement of CPSIA

2009-02-07T10:05:00.002-05:00

A new notice has just gone out, dated Feb. 6th, 2009, spelling out the regulations for new lead limit enforcement..Ecoleeko is happy to say that dyed or un-dyed fabrics & natural materials, such as cotton or wool, will not be enforced with penalties according to this statement!
Here's a snippet:

Will Not impose penalties against anyone for making, importing, distributing, or selling

a children�s product to the extent that it is made of certain natural materials, such as wood, cotton, wool, or certain metals and alloys which the Commission has recognized rarely, if ever, contain lead;
an ordinary children�s book printed after 1985; or
dyed or undyed textiles (not including leather, vinyl or PVC) and non-metallic thread and trim used in children�s apparel and other fabric products, such as baby blankets.

(The Commission generally will not prosecute someone for making, selling or distributing items in these categories even if it turns out that such an item actually contains more than 600 ppm lead.)

This is a good Start!!!

Ecoleeko Giveaway on Baboobaby!!

2009-01-30T10:57:00.003-05:00

You can win my jingle me seahorse on baboobaby! Just visit their website to find out how! Colorful and fun, How else can you get such an adorable friend for your child FREE!