Earthy Beginnings

Kids Adirondack by Loll Designs

2011-05-16T09:33:00.004-04:00

The best thing to happen to recycled milk jugs! Each kids adirondack chair contains 136 recycled milk jugs and it can be recycled at the end of its life! A Win Win! Available at Clever Tomato in cool colors! Just in time for the outdoor summer fun... My favorite : Grey Adirondack.

@Anthropologie - Kids

2011-04-21T13:15:00.001-04:00

Some of my favorites from Anthropologie's Kids section... My favorite: Alphabet Wagon.

Lovely lamps by Hannah Nunn (@hannahnunnlamps)

2011-03-23T10:00:00.001-04:00

Check out these personalized lamps by UK designer Hannah Nunn. These would make a great addition to any modern nursery! My favorite, the Moon and Stars lamp.

Family Opera in Concert : Where the Wild Things Are

2011-03-21T10:12:00.006-04:00

Saturday, April 9 at 1:30PM
David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center

“Immerse your entire family in the imaginary world of Max and the Wild Things during this special concert performance. Based on the beloved children’s book by Maurice Sendak, this delightful opera was composed by Oliver Knussen with a libretto by the author.

This presentation features a cast comprised of talented Vocal Fellows from the Tanglewood Music Center directed by acclaimed choreographer Sean Curran. Artwork specifically created for the performance by children from City Opera’s education programs will be projected above the singers. The collection of children’s art pieces will also be displayed on the Promenade of the David H. Koch Theater throughout the spring season.”

For complete details and to purchase tickets to this wonderful performance click here!

Our new look!

2011-02-18T10:52:00.001-05:00

¡Feliz viernes! We've updated our look on the web and would love to know what you think! We were looking for something clean, modern, and practical to represent our brand's eclecticism. I think we nailed it but do you? Our home page finally features our Rock Video Shoot we hope you enjoy with your kiddies!

@Cargoh Feature Friday interview!

2011-01-14T13:29:00.000-05:00

Be sure to check out my little interview with Gabe of Cargoh and read about EB's new direction along my "serious owl power" (ha!!)... Thank you peeps!

Also, be sure to check out our Cargoh shop! We've extended our holiday sale until next Friday, Jan 21st!!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T15:41:00.003-05:00

1911 Barque PEKING
South Street Seaport Museum
NYC 12.30.10
photo by IDP

May this year take you sailing to places you never imagined!! Even if its just through your imagination. That is the birth place of all your artistic ideas after all!

To a successful 2011, cheers!!

MilK Déco (@MilK_magazine)

2010-12-03T10:31:00.012-05:00

A couple of my favorites from the new MilK Déco issue. I'm just in love with that cover!

Lighting by Serendipity

{I'll have a feature on Serendipity next week, cause their shop is just too awesome}

Walking Elephant by PlanToys®

Hello October! Costume ready? Check.

2010-10-01T09:31:00.007-04:00

Adorable Halloween costumes by Pettiskirt Couture.

Labor Day weekend sale!

2010-09-04T15:49:00.001-04:00

Here's your chance to get our rocking Musician's Corner tees on sale for $16.50!!... http://bit.ly/gjw55
Limited qty's only so hurry and get yours!!

Hope you have a great Labor Day weekend!!

Good bye summer... sniff sniff...

Astoria Festival @AstoriaMusicArt

2010-07-24T08:57:00.002-04:00

The 3rd Annual Astoria Music & Art Festival is today and we're pretty stoked to be part of it! The event is free and will feature 29 local indie bands along with so much more!! If you are in the NY metro area and plan to attend be sure to stop by and say hi! All of our items at the event will be on sale for today.

Date: Saturday, July 24th
Time: 12pm – 7pm
Place: Astoria Park
Vendor Section

All major credit cards accepted.

THE818.COM (@the818)

2010-07-21T09:57:00.015-04:00

Big thanks to Morgan of The818.com for featuring our little line!!! Check out the article here... By the way, their banner is by far the coolest I've seen!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T10:50:00.001-04:00

Jenilee Brain photography

Chloé

2010-05-26T10:17:00.010-04:00

Lovely lovely lovely... Chloé children's wear collection available at Little Bergdorf Goodman. My favorite: Ruffled Gabardine Dress (the one displayed on AD)

Moms are special people...

2010-05-10T14:23:00.003-04:00

How cute are these?! My son's Mother's Day gift he made me at school. The little jar reads "Whenever you are feeling lonely or blue, just take out a "I Love You"..." Pure genius, we all know we have those days and this little magical bottle is just bound to pick you up when much needed. LOVE IT!!! In addition he had also been practicing the song "Moms are special people" all month for his Mother's Day show and it's been wonderful listening to this day in and day out...

Moms are special people
They hug you all the time
They help you do a lot of things
You might be scared to try
They take us to the playground
The movies and the zoo
Mom, we're really lucky
Cause we've got you
When we get in trouble
As little angels can
We know we're gonna get that look
From our biggest fan
She let's us know we messed up
And sometimes she gets mad
But even then, she's still the best mom
Two kids ever had

Oh, Mother, we need you every day
We think we'll keep you
Oh, Mother, we love you
Even more than songs can say

You're funny and you're smart
You finish what you start
If we could, we'd elect you
President of the Mothers
No matter where you go
We hope it always shows...
You're the very best Mom we know

Oh, Mother, we need you every day
We think we'll keep you
Oh, Mother, we love you
Even more than songs can say
You're the very best, specialest person in the world

Hope all you wonderful mothers out there had a great holiday and were treated like a queen for the day! xoxo

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T09:14:00.000-04:00

Spring is here!

2010-04-29T13:30:00.004-04:00

"It's a beautiful day in this neighborhood, A beautiful day for a neighbor, Would you be mine? Could you be mine?"... Ah the memories... Welcome Spring/Summer 2010! Finally!! I know we're fashionably late but it's finally here and I couldn't be more happy to introduce it than with such perfectly fit song! Hope this season resonates in a special way within you, my neighbor!

Visit our site to view Spring/Summer 2010 collection in its entirety.

Kitty Baby Love : Handmade toys (@kittybabylove)

2010-04-09T10:27:00.002-04:00

How cute are these handmade nontoxic wax crayons?!! Loving the colors schemes! To view their entire collection visit Kitty Baby Love at Etsy.

Pansy Maiden : Rockin green bags (@PansyMaidenBags)

2010-04-08T09:11:00.011-04:00

Additional awesome factor: all the bags are named after a song title or lyric! Check out the complete Pansy Maiden collection at Supermarket.

Little Alouette : Wooden Organic toys (@littlealouette)

2010-04-07T10:32:00.005-04:00

Little Alouette available at Etsy.

Pretty Random Objects

2010-04-06T11:17:00.002-04:00

Pure sweetness coming to you from Pretty Random Objects!

Kalon Studios : IoLine Collection (@kalonstudios)

2010-04-05T11:17:00.037-04:00

Visit Kalon Studios to view their additional sustainable collections.

Earth Hour : March 27 8:30 local time (@earthhour)

2010-03-26T19:20:00.003-04:00

Please join us tomorrow night in turning off your lights and being part of this very important movement. We participated last year and will be doing so again tomorrow night.

Want to get involved? There are several ways listed below (original post via Earth Hour's blog):

-----

Capture the moment - Earth Hour has arrived!

It's now a week away from Earth Hour and we want to help you prepare for the big day with a quick how-to guide to sharing your photos, videos, blog posts and tweets with us and the rest of the globe on the night.

At 8.30pm on 27 March, lights will go out for one hour all over the world and we’d love you to help capture the moment in your area. We’re going to be adding your photos and videos to the homepage of earthhour.org on the night as it happens around the world, so upload your images and videos as soon as you can.

Upload your photos: http://flickr.com/groups/eh2010

Upload your videos: http://www.youtube.com/group/earthhourglobal

Tweets and blog posts: use the tag '#earthhour' to help us find your post

How?

Photos

1. Upload your photos to your own Flickr account
2. Join our group: http://flickr.com/groups/eh2010
3. Add your photos to the group
4. To help us identify where they come from, please name and tag the photos with:

'Earth Hour, Earth Hour 2010, your city, your country'

Videos

1. Upload your videos to your own YouTube account
2. Add your videos to http://www.youtube.com/group/earthhourglobal
3. To help us identify where they come from, please name and tag the videos with:

'Earth Hour, Earth Hour 2010, your city, your country'

Tweets and Blog Posts

Let us know what is happening in your area and what you are doing on the night on Twitter and, if you have one, on your own blog. Use #earthhour for your tweets and tag your blog posts ‘earth hour’ so that we can easily find your posts. Follow @earthhour on Twitter to receive updates from around the globe across the duration of Earth Hour.

By following these steps, you can easily share your Earth Hour experience with the rest of the world and truly be a part of the greatest mass participation event in history.
-----

Yet another one...

2010-03-24T14:51:00.002-04:00

Spring preview #2: Dandelions
... cause I can't help myself!

Also, major sale happening next week! Be sure to check back!

Spring 2010

2010-03-23T12:39:00.001-04:00

"Rosas" part of our distress collection

coming soon...

mymimi

2010-03-08T11:06:00.043-05:00

Adorable kiddo pillows by mymimi. Visit their Etsy shop to view their entire collection of insanely cuteness!

"Emily"

2010-02-19T12:18:00.004-05:00

While riding on the elevator w/a neighbor and my 3yr old this morning:

Me: "E do you have a girlfriend?"
E: "Yes!"
Neighbor: "You do?!!"
E: "Yeah!"
Looking at my neighbor perplexed points at himself and tells him, "I'm a boy!"

Neighbor: (laughs)..."This is best thing I've heard today!!"

Me: "WOW! So what's her name?"

E: "Emily!"

It's official the Angelina craze is over! In the meantime here's the heart he gave me when he asked me to be his valentine last week. I'm so last weekend!... sigh.

Modern Kid's Furniture by @littlenest

2010-02-17T11:01:00.020-05:00

Modern Kid's Furniture specializes in scaled down classic furniture. Check out their collection below and complete collection at www.littlenest.com. My favorite: Play Ball chair (a child sized replica of the 1963 Ball Chair by Eero Aarnio)- 1st down.

Yo Gabba Gabba Cupcakes

2010-02-16T12:52:00.002-05:00

{via death by cupcake}

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T12:40:00.001-05:00

Handwritten Valentine Cupcakes
with Chocolate Glaze

{via MarthaStewart.com}

Organic Dress by HarmonyWear

2010-02-10T12:18:00.031-05:00

There are a couple of reasons why I would love to have a baby girl, the following being one of them. How cute are these!!! Los Angeles based HarmonyWear makes stylish organic clothing for the little fashionista in your home. Check out their complete collection on Etsy at www.etsy.com/shop/HarmonyWear. My favorite: Gray Skies Organic Cotton Knit Dress (1st below).

Our favorite DJ: DJ Lance Rock @amoebamusic

2010-02-09T12:02:00.002-05:00

Jonathan Adler Juniors

2010-02-08T10:02:00.013-05:00

In case you have not heard yet Jonathan Adler has added a Juniors collection. These here are some of the images taken by Coco of Cococozy at the NYIGF. To view original post with additional pics visit Cococozy.

Sneak peek on what's to come

2010-02-03T10:30:00.016-05:00

EB Artwork
100% recycled paper printed w/non-toxic inks

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex

2010-02-01T10:45:00.007-05:00

On January 3 the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex closed here in NYC and I am glad that we made it in that day. Actually we were the last people to leave! It was safely the coldest night this winter forcing us to schlep with 4 layers of clothing but nothing was stopping us. Below are some pictures we were allowed to take inside the shop. No photography was allowed inside obviously. All I can say is that the John Lennon Exhibition was exceptional and those who were able to make it know exactly what I am talking about. This was a sad loss for NYC for sure!

ModEco Kids

2010-01-22T14:42:00.002-05:00

Thanks Lisa for the feature! Guess your blog title suits us as well... check us out on ModEco Kids! Lisa is also the very talented person behind Sweetbeets!

Green Dollhouse

2010-01-20T09:42:00.004-05:00

Check out this eco modern take on the traditional doll house. The energy efficient design includes a wind turbine, a solar cell panel for generating electricity, a rain barrel for collecting rain, a biofacade which uses the natural cycle of plant growth to provide shading, and a shade canopy that can adjust the amount of sunlight and air circulation. Recycling bins are also included in the set. These are made of natural, chemical free recycled rubberwood and finished with non-toxic water based dye. For more details check out PlanToys® website.

{images via KangarooBoo}

Haiti

2010-01-16T15:03:00.011-05:00

{images via ABC News.com}

It's a new year and I've skipped several personal posts already ( ie: typical new year's resolution post, I've entered a new decade in my life post, a year in review post, etc.) but I'm ok with that. The recent natural disaster that has devastated Haiti however, I can't. They believe the death toll to be over 100,000 people... that's OVER O-N-E H-U-N-D-R-E-D T-H-O-U-S-A-N-D LIVES!!!! The images coming from Haiti are heart wrenching. I think about those stranded, those struggling to survive, those living outside of Haiti not knowing how their families are, and the desperation in the air... Though these are difficult economical times for us I can't urge you more to donate. To donate to the American Red Cross: Haiti Relief and Development click on the logo below. You can also text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10 to Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti.

There are other organizations doing some great relief work and worth helping out as well:
Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières
Partners In Health
UNICEF
Concern Worldwide
CARE

In addition, charity: water is accepting the following items for donation, but it must all be collected by Monday! For details on drop off visit their site.

Blankets*
Tents*
Soap
Feminine hygiene products
Sleeping bags*
Medical gloves
Bandages/gauze
Cases of bottled water

*These items can be gently used.

Regardless what President Bush finds necessary, if you have any of these items to contribute please do so. Thanks for stopping by and supporting our brothers and sisters in Haiti!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-26T01:23:00.003-05:00

From our family to yours... Happy Holidays!

Craftgawker today...

2009-12-09T12:36:00.004-05:00

http://craftgawker.com/

{permalink}

Dear Dr. MOZ

2009-12-08T09:20:00.004-05:00

Big thanks to Dr. MOZ for featuring our little line!! Go over to The Dear Dr. MOZ Baby Blog to view feature...

Holiday Gift Guide '09

2009-11-30T11:07:00.047-05:00

Our take on the "Holiday Gift Guide" craze... Most of these are either handmade organic or benefit a great cause or both... A win win for all! Some of these have sales going on today so don't miss out... Happy shopping!

Where to buy:

1. Ollie the Sock Monkey by Pink Sherbert {R: $45}

2. Handcrafted custom wooden jigsaw puzzle by Bella Puzzles {R: $13}

3. charity:water wristbands by charity:water {R: $28}

4. Vintage White Hydrangea by Fresh Snapped Photos {R: $14}

5. LAFAYETTE Girls' Swing Coat by Half Dot Brooklyn {R: $140}

6. I Adore You Pillow Slip by Inklore {R: $38}

7. Reusable Cup (eco-friendly thermal porcelain) by WWF Gift Center {R: $50 Donation)

8. Ambariano Organic Bath, Body and Massage Oil by Hammocks & High Tea {R: $24}

9. Holiday Red Chiffon Flower Tweed Handbag by Mojo Spa Style {R: $75}

10. 2010 Eco Desk Calendar by Cat Seto (R: $21.95)

11. Give & Care Collection by Earthy Beginnings {R: $28}

12. Hostess with the Mostess Greeting Card by Tori Higa Stationery (benefits International Sanctuary) {R: $5}

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T10:53:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving dinner here we come!... Next up: shopping madness...

Passchal: Recycled Handbags

2009-11-19T12:21:00.044-05:00

Available at Passchal.

Designing Moms Giveaway

2009-11-16T09:51:00.005-05:00

What a way to start the week!! Enter today...

Happy 40th Birthday Sesame Street!!

2009-11-10T11:12:00.002-05:00

What better way to celebrate but with some of our favorite music videos from the classic show... To view high end fashion meets Sesame Street make sure to check out this previous post.

Stormtroopers 2010

2009-11-10T09:36:00.009-05:00

This calendar is made of photos from the Stormtroopers 365 series by Stéfan Le Dû.
To buy this calendar go here.

Teenage poetry

2009-11-09T14:18:00.002-05:00

Looking through old notebooks is the truly the best! Reading them allows you to reflect on how much you've grown as an individual. This here is something I wrote when I was in my mid teens (we're talking mid 90's : ))...

In Motion

To think of the wonders of the world

To fly high and not look back

To taste someone’s pain as if it was your own

Abilities too pure of a soul

To quench for what you have

To live and never die

To see and not go blind

Aspirations that we’ll ever have

You dare to see but yet behold

You take a breath but then you choke

You ask why but don’t pick up

Wasting my time is what you are

To listen is step one

To understand what’s hard to find

To search is a must

To lead and not follow

To sleep is a choice

To awake to the truth is irrevocable

To die is just dust

To live is to move on!

Angelina who??

2009-11-06T12:10:00.002-05:00

Excuse me but what does a 3yr old know about beauty? A couple of weeks ago while giving thanks my 3yr old said, "thank you for Angelina!" Knowing there's a little Brazilian girl in his class named Angelina I followed by asking him if that's who he was referring to and he said yes. So I had to ask, "Do you like Angelina?" To my amazement something that was usually followed with a yes "he/she is my friend" was now followed by, "She's beautiful!"... He continued to mention her more often at home so like any curious mother would do I asked one of his teachers if he even spoke to Angelina during class. The teacher's response: "Who are you telling!! He has been like this since the first week of school. Angelina, Angelina... It's too much! Just today he was calling her not even 5min after waking up from nap time! I don't understand how he can know what he likes at such a young age!"... Perhaps that was more than I expected to hear. My baby in love?? No way! I'm not ready for this people! ha!!!

Needless to say the Angelina craze continues to date... I've lost my baby to Angelina!! Jen I now know how it feels!!!
(now that was too easy... for the 5 people reading this... I'M JUST KIDDING!!)

Happy belated Halloween y'all!

WWF: Public Service Annoucement 2009

2009-10-19T14:59:00.003-04:00

{Via WWF}

Read the complete entry at

http://www.worldwildlife.org/sites/videos/2009psas.html

Thank you WWF!

Columbus Day & Winner

2009-10-12T14:53:00.004-04:00

Hello peeps, happy Columbus Day for those who are actually off from work... Thanks to all who entered our giveaway! I threw all the names and screen names from blogger, twitter, and facebook onto Random.org and the winner this time around is Jackie. Yay for Jackie!

Zooguu

2009-10-07T12:51:00.019-04:00

Zooguu is a collection of handmade toys made by Jen & Brian Gubicza out of their Brooklyn, NY studio. They have an awesome interactive coloring feature in their site where your child can play around until they get the toy to the color scheme that he or she like. As these are handmade every toy is unique. There isn't much I need to add here other than go and get one! How incredibly cute are these???

My favorite: Zooguu Fugu (pufferfish) Plush

Amelia Kay Photography

2009-10-06T13:30:00.002-04:00

Browsing through Craftgawker I came across the wonderful photography of Amelia Kay from Denver, Colorado. This versatile mother of two, self taught nonetheless, has set out to make simple photography into a work of art. Her work exudes warmth and tranquility, or at least it does to me. For more about her and her wonderful work visit her Etsy shop Amelia Kay Photography. My favorite: Looking Your Way

Anthropologie

2009-10-05T15:42:00.001-04:00

I've been in a funk lately where I am wearing the same set of clothes each week. See it's easy to slack on your appearance when you are working from home because the truth is no one is going to see you... yes, I'm wearing something that could be considered pajamas I suppose; I wouldn't walk out looking like this that's for sure! Well the truth is I'm starting to miss going out to work, simply for the dress up part. Well from today onward I will be dressing up, even if I'm the only one that can see it!

Ok, enough with the rambling, here are some pieces I heart from Anthropologie. My favorite is the Sprinkled Chiffon Top from their First Frost collection.

Craftgawker

2009-10-05T01:52:00.008-04:00

Not only are we on the front page of Craftgawker but we're #1!! Check it out while it's still up...

Cloud Fixation

2009-09-29T12:15:00.005-04:00

I've been fixated on photographing clouds as of late. Below are some of the pictures I've captured of our great sky... Enjoy!

Earthy Beginnings Commercial pt. 2

2009-09-27T13:12:00.018-04:00

I'm so excited to share this beautiful project with you all... Just be sure to crank up your ~~amps~~ speakers!!! Huge shout out to every single person that helped this project come together!

Read more about this project over at Onward Films Blog.

SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY

2009-09-25T12:54:00.008-04:00

Starting today we are holding our very first giveaway! Winner will be able to chose an item from out Spring 09 Collection (Est. retail $28-$30). You have until midnight EST Friday Oct 9, 2009 to enter.

There are four ways to enter:
* Visit our home page and view our collections. Post a comment and let us know which is your favorite item from our line. (http://www.earthybeginnings.com/collections.html)
* Become a fan on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Earthy-Beginnings/161802367515)
* Follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/EBeginnings)
* Follow us on Blogger (http://earthybeginnings.blogspot.com/)

Include in your comment below every way you are entering and make sure to leave your email address so we can contact you in case you are the winner... Winner will be chosen randomly and announced on Oct 12.

This contest is open to US and Candadian residents.

Facebook!

2009-09-21T16:26:00.004-04:00

I'm pretty sure that almost everyone visiting this site also takes part of Facebook mania! Just because I wanted to make your life easier I've started a Facebook Fan Page for our little line... Head on over and become a fan and keep up with news, giveaways, and much more coming soon!

If you have a little one wearing our brand and would like to share with the world, email us a copy and/or post onto our fan page as well! Come on and show off your eco baby!!!

Email: Info@earthybeginnings.com

Memory Cards

2009-09-21T16:07:00.007-04:00

Here's another post I blogged about over at Designing Moms blog thought you guys would appreciate as well...

I had been meaning to buy some memory card games for Emmanuel because the regular deck of cards were proving to be too hard for him. So before I purchased one from the store it occurred to me that I could create one myself using my current designs. Since I was going to do this I figured I could share with all my designing moms. Here it is! Inexpensive and lots of fun!

Materials:
-Card Stock paper
-Color Pencils (crayons if they are small like mine but prefer pencils)
-Pair of scissors

Print out the memory cards pdf twice of course to have the pairs. Have your little one color the animals and cut the cards out when they are done. Play time! I started my son with 4 animals and progressed up so he wouldn't feel overwhelmed from start.

Enjoy!!!

*Original artwork by Earthy Beginnings. Memory cards PDF available for personal use only.
Copyright © 2008-2009, Earthy Beginnings. All rights reserved.*

In the buff

2009-09-18T11:20:00.006-04:00

As I slowly but surely approach the end of my twenties, I am looking back through photographs to see another decade of changes. If there was something I regret immensely of my pregnancy is that I have about 3 pictures of it. Looking through my pictures of my 20's I realized that I have about 20 of them! You see, I'm not that comfortable in front of the camera. So before I regret not taking more pictures before I leave my 20's here are some I took the other day, in the buff... no make up, no altering... simply me, pimples and all... ha!

Modern Toy Boxes

2009-09-17T11:00:00.014-04:00

Just recently I wrote a post over at designing moms blog regarding modern toy boxes. I figured I'd share here as well... Enjoy!

"Fuji Toy Box by Argington"

Working with a limited living space I've had to rearrange furniture 100 times since my son was born to accommodate everyone but primarily to preserve my sanity! Key to keeping this place looking organized is having workable storage/toy boxes. Here are some modern toy boxes that would compliment any modern nursery and/or living room and some also have the Green Factor plus! Check them out:

1. Stella Stackable Collection by Q Collection JuniorTM
Retail: $315 -$365 per storage cube
Green Factor:
100% recycled wood, no formaldehyde added medium density fiberboard construction. Non-toxic, free VOC health hazards, water-based finish.

2. The Owyn Toy Box by Mod Mom Furniture
Retail: $350
Green Factor:
Made with eco-friendly birch plywood, non-toxic paints (inside and leaf lids) and non-toxic, low voc water-based polyurethane, and hand-drawn, hand-cut walnut veneer for "branch."

3. Mojo Toy Box by The Land of Nod
Retail: $249

4. Fuji Toy Box by Argington
Retail: $349
Green Factor:
The Fuji Toy Box is made from renewable and sustainably harvested low voc birch plywood. We use non toxic and pollutant free finishes and our production facilities are energy efficient to reduce waste and energy.

3yrs to date

2009-09-09T10:10:00.007-04:00

My ~~little~~ big man is 3 today and I can't believe it! Here is a picture of him at 2months old. He has always been the cutest baby you have ever seen... OK perhaps I'm a little bias... but just a little ; P.

Happy Birthday lindo!

September Birthday

2009-09-07T19:17:00.008-04:00

On Sept 9th we celebrate our son's third birthday and since he's too young to have his own mycharity birthday page we decided to start one for him. http://mycharitywater.org/Emmanuel

Here are some facts you ought to know:

$20 means one person can get clean water for 20 years.

$250 means two families of six can get clean water.

$5,000 means clean water for a community of 250.

With your support, we can help charity : water continue to bring clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations!

Please join us in helping and remember no gift is too small for those in need!

Know anyone born in September, ask them to join charity : water's September Campaign.

Fall 09

2009-09-02T11:52:00.007-04:00

Ok once you are done drooling over the rock pictures in the post below please proceed to check out our new Fall 09. To celebrate the new season I will be extending our BACK TO SCHOOL END OF SUMMER SALE until Sept. 12!!! Take advantage while it last. My apologies to those who tried to access our e-boutique last night. I have redesigned all my pages to accommodate fall. Make sure to clear your cookies in order to view our new ~~face-lift~~ site.

With all the turmoil taking place in my personal life I am truly happy I had this artistic outlet to keep me sane. Hope you enjoy it as much I have making it. Thank you for your support and for continuing to grow with us... Cheers!

Earthy Beginnings Commercial

2009-09-02T03:46:00.016-04:00

Yeah you read that correctly!!! I have been extremely lucky to have crossed paths with a gentleman by the name of Chris Lee, the director behind Onward Films. His story, truly inspirational and a definite must read! We decided to join forces and capture a true celebration of childhood through a mini rock video using my Musician's Corner Collection! And as if that was not HUGE enough, his wife, a photographer extraordinaire, decided to join in. Below are pictures taken the day of the shoot by Gina Lee (Gina Lee Photography). The video is still under production but when its ready I'll be posting it up for all of you to enjoy... for now I leave you with this...

Onward Films : MISSION
Part of my personal work as an artist is to utilize the art of film as a vehicle for social change.
In doing so, I set out to promote and preserve the e belief that every child should be afforded the opportunity to live a healthy and happy life, as well as raise awareness about social issues that directly, or indirectly, affect children.

... yes, there are actually people out there that genuinely do care. Hopes this inspires you today...

Conversation

2009-08-29T14:47:00.007-04:00

A conversation with my soon to be 3yrd old son right after putting him down for his nap today.

Manny: "Mommy, I'm scared!"
Me: "why?"
Manny: "the hippopotamus is scary!!"
Me: "what hippopotamus? I don't see it!"
Manny: "right there behind the door!"
Me: "where? I don't see it."
Manny: "RIGHT THERE BEHIND THE DOOR!!!"
Me: "ok let me see... nope I don't see it."
Manny: "you don't see it? I don't see it either... Mommy want to play?"
Me: "huh? nooo time to take a nap!"
Manny: "AHHHHH MOMMY MY BACK IS GONE!!!!" (while trying to look at his back)

Now what do you say to that?!

Me: "ok let's go play!"
Manny: "yay let's go play, let's go play, let's go plaaaaaayyyyyyy...."

Fashion's Night Out NYC

2009-08-28T14:22:00.003-04:00

Fashion's Night Out
September 10, 2009
A Global Celebration of Fashion

Sneak Peek : Fall 09

2009-08-28T12:19:00.012-04:00

Sesame Street and High Fashion?

2009-08-20T15:59:00.007-04:00

Can it be?? Yes it can and what a wonderful way to cross these two... Great job Harper's Bazaar! Check out the video here... My favorite: Oscar de la Renta of course!

Too cute!

2009-08-19T16:16:00.005-04:00

An old post worth reposting:

BACK TO SCHOOL END OF SUMMER SALE!!!!

2009-08-17T12:00:00.006-04:00

Fall/Holiday 2009

2009-08-15T22:34:00.005-04:00

I need some baby and toddler models for my upcoming collection. If you are interested in taking part please email me with the information below. Do understand that a release form will need to be signed prior to photo shoot. I'm planning to shoot in Central Park, please only respond if you are able to make it to this location. Thank you!!

Email me at info@earthybeginnings.com with the following info --
Baby Name:
Baby Age:
Baby Clothing size (top & bottom):
Please include ONE recent picture of your baby as well.

More information on photo shoot will be sent to the participating babies.

Quick post

2009-08-04T01:04:00.003-04:00

No, I haven't forgotten about the blog... Yes, I do have a lot going on my end. But I promise you this, it will be worth the wait! Stayed tuned... : )

Marchesa resort 2010

2009-07-24T16:54:00.009-04:00

If my Greek fiancé ever convinces me on getting married in Greece these beautiful Marchesa dresses would be it for me. The first one for the ceremony and the last for the party! Whatcha think?? Aren't they just fabulous!!

fabulous find via {this is glamorous}

{runway: marchesa resort 2010}

"Ink Calendar" by Oscar Diaz

2009-07-24T09:27:00.002-04:00

Now this is just genius!!! An ink calendar by Spanish product designer Oscar Diaz which presents you with an alternative perception of time. Yup yup, this simply remarkable calendar dyes a complete number per day! Unfortunately, the only way to view this in person requires a trip to Madrid, but if you are in the neighborhood then visit Sala Juana Mordó, Círculo de Bellas Artes, Madrid (Spain) where it's being displayed until October 11, 2009. More from the designer's website below... Aplausos!

"Ink Calendar" make use the timed pace of the ink spreading on the paper to indicate time.

The ink is absorbed slowly, and the numbers in the calendar are "printed" daily. One a day, they are filled with ink until the end of the month. A calendar self-updated, which enhances the perception of time passing and not only signaling it.

The ink colors are based on a spectrum, which relate to a “color temperature scale”, each month having a color related to our perception of the whether on that month. The colors range from dark blue in December to, three shades of green in spring or oranges, red in the summer.

The scale for measuring the “color temperature” that I have used is a standard called ‘D65’ and corresponds roughly to a midday sun in Western / Northern Europe.

The "Ink Calendar" was developed for “Gradual “, an exhibition featuring works, which were evolving during the exhibition time at the London Design Festival 2007.

Production: Self-production.
Specs: Ink on paper, various dimensions.
Exhibitions: "Gradual" 5, Crownwell Place, London Design Festival, 2007.

Unless Someone Like You

2009-07-23T11:48:00.004-04:00

Out of Chicago comes artist Leslie Hamer, the person behind this lovely work. She hand draws custom portraits from a photograph, using a cintiq pen and tablet. The finish product: a unique personalized portrait to enjoy for a lifetime! But seriously how talented is she? These are just beautiful!! She also offers gigposters, which absolutely rock! Check out her site for all other cool products she offers. I should add that I found this through her Supermarket shop but Etsynians don't worry she has one there too.

Quote of the Month

2009-07-22T09:26:00.004-04:00

via Pecannoot

Song of the month: La La La Zoom Zoom Zoom

2009-07-14T00:11:00.005-04:00

La La La Zoom Zoom Zoom by Incubus

Awareness

2009-07-06T14:22:00.008-04:00

It's with a heavy heart that I write this post... After an excruciating long 6-day wait, which really has felt like a year, a urologist surgeon has confirmed that my mother has indeed Kidney Cancer. She went into the ER last week for what she thought was food poisoning. The specialist, who I must add was great in lifting our spirits, told us that this cancer was known as the "silent cancer". He explained how fortunate she had been to have fallen ill and discovered this by mere chance. Most people he explained further, do not find out until its way too late making this one of those worst cancers out there. Although this is the worst thing we can be going through as a family, I KNOW we will get through this. I have been very fortunate to have been raised by very strong-willed women in my family. There is no doubt in my mind that although this may be hard for my mom to take in she has already put on her combat boots!

These are some guidelines I have found over on WEB MD on this particular cancer. Please take your time out and view it. I am also including a link to the Action to Cure Kidney Cancer, a NYC based organization working to raise awareness of kidney cancer.

Understanding Kidney Cancer

Doctors don't know the causes of kidney cancer. But certain factors appear to increase the risk of getting kidney cancer. For example, kidney cancer occurs most often in people older than age 40. These are some other risk factors for kidney cancer:

Smoking. If you smoke cigarettes, your risk for kidney cancer is twice that of nonsmokers. Cigars may also increase your risk.
Being male. Men are about twice as likely as women to get kidney cancer.
Being obese. Extra weight may cause changes to hormones that increase your risk.
Using certain pain medications for a long time. This includes over-the-counter medications.
Having advanced kidney disease or being on long-term dialysis, a treatment for people with kidneys that have stopped working
Having certain genetic conditions, such as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease or inherited papillary renal cell carcinoma
Having a family history of kidney cancer. The risk is especially high in siblings.
Being exposed to certain chemicals, such as asbestos, cadmium, benzene, organic solvents, or certain herbicides
Having high blood pressure. Doctors don' know whether the condition or medication used to treat it is the source of the increased risk.
Being black. The risk in blacks is slightly higher than in whites. No one knows why.

Having these risk factors does not mean you will get kidney cancer. And it's also true that you can have none of them and still get the disease.

Action to Cure Kidney Cancer (ACKC): http://www.ackc.org/

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-04T13:26:00.004-04:00

Olliegraphic

2009-07-02T12:52:00.007-04:00

Custom printable stationery from Chicago that are just so darn adorable... They custom make graphics to resemble your little one! Check out their Etsy shop for all custom jobs available.

Wedding Invitation

2009-06-30T08:42:00.005-04:00

I came across this wedding invitation while browsing through {dv} and ooooh how I love this!

Last Day!

2009-06-30T08:09:00.006-04:00

Today is the last day to take advantage of the introductory price over at Indie Design Studio so don’t delay! =)

Oscar De La Renta - Girls

2009-06-29T09:10:00.001-04:00

Oscar De La Renta and Carolina Herrera have always been two of my favorite top designers. Their styles exude elegance with the right amount of feminism. So I was pretty excited to come across Oscar's new limited girls collection for the little princesses in your life. To view the entire limited collection which I should add is in collaboration with the Children's Defense Fund click here. My favorite: I'm broken between the POLKA DOT PRINT (second from top) and the POPPY MATTELASSE in blue(as pictured). By the way, this little girl is sooo adorable, totally selling the line!

Eco-friendly Electric Guitars

2009-06-24T10:47:00.009-04:00

There are several instruments my hubs and I own. A couple of guitars, an upright piano, etc... Wondering if the music industry had in some way turned eco-friendly I researched for eco-friendly electric guitars. Here are some I found... It should go without saying but I'm super stoked! These are all great and some even have video demonstrations for you to check out the sound!

If you are curious to see some of my instruments you may do so here, but don't forget to check out these awesome eco-friendly electric guitars first!

Bambusa Electric Guitar by First Act
(made of Bamboo)

Bamboo Electric guitar by Taber Licea for Licea Guitars
(made of Bamboo)

mada caimes
(made of hemp fibers)

The Eco Axe by Zero Impact Guitars
(made of SmartWood)

Webster by Cyclotron Guitars
(made of recycled plastics)

Indie Fixx Galleria

2009-06-23T16:12:00.008-04:00

Last week we joined other indie designers in taking part of this year's Summertime Indie Fixx Galleria. The gallery is like an "indie mall" featuring a juried mix of indie designers & boutiques. This wonderful mix is brought to you by Jen Wallace, the write behind the Indie Fixx family of sites. Summertime Galleria will run from June 15 to Sept 15, so be sure to check us out and support indie designers!!

Footprints poem

2009-06-22T20:12:00.006-04:00

Due to the economic woes of the present time this Father's Day gifting was a collection of handmade items by my son and myself. Truly unfortunate for my hubs because at this point he really deserves a new Jaguar or something of that stature! Below is a framed poem that my son did in school for "daddy" which was just too heartwarming for me not to share...

Footprints

"Walk a little slower Daddy" said a child so small,
"I'm following in your footsteps and I don't want to fall.

Sometimes your steps are very fast,
Sometimes they're hard to see;
So walk a little slower, Daddy,
For you are leading me.

Someday when I'm all grown up,
You're what I want to be;
Then I will have a little child
Who'll want to follow me.

And I would want to lead just right,
And know that I was true,
So walk a little slower, Daddy,
For I must follow you."

(author unknown)

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T09:00:00.001-04:00

To all the wonderful dads out there, have a great Father's Day!

I'm lucky to call this wonderful dad, hubs... love you!

Tot Trends Weekly

2009-06-15T12:10:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Laura and the great ppl behind Tot Trends Weekly for the feature! Click on the cover below to check out our line in this week's Creepy Crawlers issue.

EcoAction

2009-06-13T15:28:00.005-04:00

I forget how I stumbled upon E / The Environmental Magazine, but after listing Earthy Beginnings in their online directory of environmental products & services I noticed a company EcoAction a couple of listings below mine. EcoAction is an organization with a mission to make schools across America more environmentally friendly by implementing recycling and conservation in the educational environment. Their story and mission:

EcoAction was started at Clinton High School in November, 2007, as a student organization by John Gray. Less than one week after starting EcoAction, John and the new organization were selected as recipients of a Do Something - GameStop Youth Grant of $500. This money was used to purchase recycling bins, supplies, and fundraisers for the organization. Shortly after, John realized that EcoAction had a place in every school, every home, and every business. And now, we arrive to today. EcoAction maintains a great online portal full of information and resources, and is currently awaiting the approval of 501c3 nonprofit status from the IRS.

Our Mission

EcoAction is a non-profit educational organization whose mission is to educate and inspire our society to become more sustainably minded through outreach, activism, and entertainment.

To learn more about EcoAction visit them at www.ecoactiononline.org.

Holiday & Fall

2009-06-02T13:22:00.005-04:00

Extremely focused these days, trying to put Holiday & Fall together by mid July. Here's a sneak peek of my new "Mixed Media Collection". Ahhh, how I love this line!

One in 8 million (via NY Times)

2009-05-29T22:21:00.008-04:00

Everyone needs to view this heartwarming story depicted by the NY Times. The photography of Todd Heisler in this story is simply magnificent!

May Wong Lee: The Adoptive Mother
With three biological sons, Ms. Wong Lee and her husband adopted a girl, Mebrat, from Ethiopia, who they thought was 3, but she was a malnourished 6-year-old.

View their life story slideshow here.

If you know a person who lives in the five boroughs of New York City and would have a good story for One in 8 Million contact the NY Times at onein8@nytimes.com.

Joan Walsh Anglund

2009-05-26T11:38:00.005-04:00

These here are by famous illustrator Joan Walsh Anglund. I came across these while browsing Sweet Lily Studio's etsy shop. All of them come from a set marketed by Harcourt, Brace and World, Inc. called the Joan Walsh Anglund Sampler. The first two were originally published in 1963 in the book Spring is a New Beginning. The last two were originally published in 1958 in the book A Friend is Someone Who Likes You. What I like most about these is how it depicts the innocence of childhood in a very simple yet classic way. My pick: Spring Imagination.

To find more vintage items for your nursery make sure to check out Sweet Lily Studio!

Designing Moms

2009-05-26T11:24:00.003-04:00

Just thought I put in a quick note on here as well... I'm guest blogger all this week over at Designing Moms so go and check me out!!! Main focus: Organization & Color. Don't miss it!

I'm back

2009-05-24T21:03:00.020-04:00

Since I'm officially unpacked I can get back to business... but before I do, check out some pictures from my trip. I was not please with the resort however, so I will not speak about my stay (cause if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all... or something of that nature).

Vacation time!!

2009-05-15T18:12:00.001-04:00

I'll be in Puerto Plata, DR from 5/16 to 5/21. So needless to say all my shops are closed until 5/22. Check back to see breathtaking photos from my vaca!

The "Big Read" book!

2009-05-15T12:44:00.013-04:00

I've just added my name (#26,761) to the Big Read book to show my support for a good quality, free education for every child, and to ask President Obama to contribute $2 billion to a Global Fund for Education. Please join me by adding your name to the book, as well.

http://www.one.org/us/bigreadpetition/

Together as ONE, we can make a difference!

Endangered Species Day!! (via the ESC)

2009-05-15T12:11:00.006-04:00

On May 15th, 2009, America celebrates Endangered Species Day!
Endangered Species Day is a celebration of our nation’s wildlife and wild places. Started in 2006 by the United States Congress, Endangered Species Day is the third Friday of May.

Endangered Species Day Public Service Announcement:

Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for people young and old to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and everyday actions that people can take to help protect our nation’s disappearing wildlife and last remaining open space. Protecting America’s wildlife and plants today is a legacy we leave to our children and grandchildren, so that all Americans can experience the rich variety of native species that help to define our nation.

Started by the United States Senate, Endangered Species Day is the third Friday in May. Every year, thousands of people throughout the country celebrate Endangered Species Day at parks, wildlife refuges, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, libraries, schools and community centers. You can participate in festivals, field trips, park tours, community clean-ups, film showings, classroom presentations, and many other fun and educational activities.

To read complete post head to the Endangered Species Coalition web page.

Dooce

2009-05-15T00:13:00.009-04:00

There are some blogs I can say I read daily and others biweekly... The wonderful Heather B. Armstrong @ Dooce happens to be one of my favorite writers and I was super delighted when I read that she was expecting again. I sent over to her a Doves organic onesie from my Nature Collection sometime in April and was surprised to receive this thank you note from her shortly after. If you follow her journey you would know that she just finished her book tour last month and with all that going on she was still kind enough to take the time out to say thank you!

In case you don't know who Heather B. Armstrong is, cause you've been living under a rock, I'll forgive you... Trust me we all need a daily dose of Dooce.

Heather, much love from New York!!!