GO GREEN menstrual supplies

In my search for Maine Artisans to talk about I have passed this one over many times. I, like many American women think the idea of reusable sanitary products is just odd somehow. We however, have had the luxury of having these products readily available and have become a nation of throw-aways. We dispose of everything from newspapers, cans and bottles to children, marriages and the elderly. Sadly, we have taught our children the same. Hence this new generations of the "entitled". Ah yes well, enough of my my rambling if I keep going now we will all be lost.

Solace and Savor, the name of the shop featured today makes reusable menstrual pads and she goes one step farther. She donates to Goods4Girls, an organization that works together with aid and relief organizations giving them the ability to recognize and distribute these products to those areas where there are most needed. I had never even thought of the concept that a lack of sanitary pads can be a barrier to a girl's education but when I stopped and though about it I could certainly see why. It is very sad to realize while we are tossing everything out these women and girls rely on rags, newspaper, camel skin or nothing at all for their menstrual needs. Please check out this agency at http://www.goods4girls.org and take a look at this shop at http://SolaceAndSavor.etsy.com to see about donating some or purchasing some for your won use. At least go check it out!

As far as the pads go they are made mostly from cotton flannel. You receive 2 liners with your purchase; one is the sewn in liner made of hemp/cotton fleece and the other a "non-wicking moisture barrier made of polyester fleece where you need it most, in the middle of the pad."

They come in a huge variety of colors and patterns. They seemed a little spendy to me until I figured out the cost of the disposable variety. At a time when we are all trying so desperately to "save the planet" this just seems the responsible thing to do. So ladies....check out http://SolaceAndSavor.etsy.com and please run by Goods 4 Girls while you're cruising the net.

Encaustic and Other Art

Jamie has been working very hard on her new line of encaustic paint and it is now available! Pictured here her handmade paint makes me want to take up the ancient art just to buy the supplies they look so yummy! About her paint she says "My paint is made from only the finest ingredients and with a recipe favored by old masters-- rest assured that you will be receiving artist quality paint that is archival and will last you through the ages! I wouldn't use or sell any other kind." In addition to making her own paint (wow) she also paints herself. At her site you can see watercolor, oil, drawings, photographs and of course more paint! Run by and check out this amazing woman at http://www.jamieribisi.etsy.com. Now all that said I have to tell you she is also the part owner of Sweetland Retreat located in Manchester Maine. It is "a unique Bed & Breakfast offering private and shared artist studios and various workshops in a rural relaxing setting. Stay with us and experience the way life should be! " You can visit their site at http://www.sweetlandretreat.com/. Wow, I wonder what comes next with this talented woman?!

Shop closed

Well, I did it, I closed the fiber site. All that is left is 6 or 7 ($5.00) crocheted bracelets and a couple of handbags priced really low. I won't be adding anything to it and when it is empty, that's it. My focus now will be on my gemstone line. Anyone who has marketing ideas or suggestions, PLEASE feel free to leave my some ideas.

NAVY MOM

Sapphire is the birthstone for September and is the crystal used in a couple of these bracelets made by Sarah. She is a U.S. Coast Guard wife so these creations have deep meaning for her. They caught my eye because my daughter has just joined the Navy and will be leaving for boot camp soon.

Sarah is happy to do custom orders and special requests for any branch of service, birthday or other special occasion. What a beautiful gift to give, especially to someone who might have a birthday coming up or has a loved one away this Holiday season. They are very affordable at $25.00 each. Ideas are plentiful in creating your own special bracelet. Stop by http://www.LuckyStarsJewelry.etsy.com and see some of her designs or you can contact her there and have her create a very distinct piece for you alone.