Apparently 2/3rds of a cup of petroleum goes into the manufacture of each disposable nappy. It is also estimated that between 1/4 and 1/3 of Aussie landfills are disposable nappies and they are expected to take 500 years to degrade.
Now some exciting facts:
Using cloth nappies for your baby is thought to save you at least $2000 per child. Modern cloth nappies are not the white squares of old and are easy to use and oh so cute.
That is why I am going cloth nappy shopping, again….
With baby number two due to arrive in less than three months, I am back on the cloth nappy search wagon. We used quite a few different brands last time, but the dog literally ate a large selection off the washing line (something of a jealously issue one would expect – since he would selectively target Lilian’s clothes and nappies!) and so we need more.
I was thrilled then to find that Perth is now home to Booty Crawl (www.bootycrawl.com.au)
Booty Crawl is an Australian owned and operated business based in Perth run by two first time mums offering an online store, consultancy, demonstrations, workshops, gift registry and advice. That is right, these Mum’s will come to your place and go through the whole spectrum of nappies, so you can work out what is best for you. What I really like about Booty Crawl is that they don’t believe that one nappy is perfect for every situation and I have to agree!
We had a little chat with the team from Booty Crawl, to find out more about this great concept.
Gina from CleanLife:Tell us why you started Booty Crawl and what the advantages are for people looking to use Cloth nappies?
Nikilee from Booty Crawl: We came to use cloth nappies for a variety of different reasons – they are gorgeous, easy to use, seemed much comfier for our babies bottoms, save lots of money, and most importantly they don’t cost the Earth. Pretty soon people in our mother’s groups, play groups and swimming groups were asking for our advice on which ones were best.
We came to discover that nappies are for babies like undies are for us – it’s great to have a few different types for different purposes. So we did lots of research and narrowed down a select range of brands and styles. For the booty flasher who won’t keep her skirt down, or his pants up, we’ve got some cute prints and colours. For little fashionistas to want to wear their baby skinny leg jeans, we’ve got teeny weeny slimline nappies. For babies with chubby thighs, poo explosions, heavy wetters or multi booty families our range has a nappy to cover everyone. Our babies use every nappy we stock - and we only stock nappies we love.
Despite all the reasons we came to use them in the first place, the reason that makes us love using them day in and day out is knowing that every time we use one we prevent another disposable nappy ending up in landfill. As official sponsors of My Green Nappy, we promote the message that even if every baby born this year only had one cloth nappy they used every day – Australia would have around 100 million less nappies in landfill by the year’s end. Its so easy to make a big change with just one little nappy change a day.
And yes organic lovers - there is a selection of organic nappies - which made me especially excited!
So if you are confused amid the sea of cloth nappies, then I would highly suggest giving Booty Crawl a look. Visit www.bootycrawl.com.au for more information and to purchase nappies online.
Being is a parent is demanding, nobody would deny that. Why then is it, that the 'job' of parenting, perhaps the hardest job in the world, is the one we receive the least training for and most certainly in some circles, the least recognition for. Recently when I told people I was going on a 'parenting course' some people laughed and said 'but you are already a parent'. I hope your GP does NOT take the same approach to continuing education!
I have been battling with the concept of parenting ever since our little Lilian arrived in 2007. Often because the way I wanted to parent, the way my instincts guided me wasn't at all what I was reading in the books. If I was breastfeeding my daughter and she feel asleep I certainly wasn't going to wake her up so that she could fall asleep 'by herself' so that she could learn to 'self settle'. I won't deny it, I can see the appeal of being able to put your child to bed, shut the door and hear them waking 12 hours later, but for us, with our particularly wakeful child, we were not comfortable with the techniques we would have to use to achieve that. I was told in every possible permutation of the phrase that I was 'soft mother' and that I was 'denying my child of good sleep'. I have always been one to follow my instincts and in many ways to follow nature. I couldn't see a cave woman waking a sleeping baby so that the child became self sufficient at settling, so I just didn't do it, it just was not right for this cave lady.
As Lilian has grown older the issue has gone from sleep to general behaviour and again, I just didn't feel comfortable with following the punishment and discipline techniques that I was told were 'so effective' and 'totally harmless'. Admittedly the techniques do seem to work for many people. But when I tried the '1, 2, 3' with my daughter she laughed and said '4, 5, 6 I'll teach you the numbers mum!'. She was on to me. Additionally 'time out' just created worse behaviour. Most importantly though, I just did not feel comfortable administering either of these techniques.
It was with much delight then that after the recommendation of a very dear friend and my midwife that Tony and I attended 'The Heart of Parenting' workshop by Jo Field. http://www.theheartofparenting.com.au
I wasn't really sure what to expect, but when I walked into the room and saw the following quote, I knew I was in the right place;
Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent that the one derived from fear of punishment
Mahatma Gahndi
Jo Field from The Heart of Parenting
Jo's heart of parenting workshop is based on a approach called compassionate communication or nonviolent communication. It seems to be all about creating a connection between you and your child, indeed it is about unconditional love and showing that love at all times. The theory is that 'poor behaviour' is actually the presentation of an unmet need, and the best way to get to the source of that need, is through connection. Many of the techniques we routinely employ as parents create a disconnect, thereby reducing the likelihood that our children will communicate their needs to us. For Tony and I the ideas have proven incredibly useful in terms of us relating to each other and we feel that we are now modeling (at least some of the time) effective communication strategies for Lilian.
The reading list that Jo recommends is extensive and so far, the reading has enriched the way I think, far beyond the realms of parenting. I am currently on 'Connection Parenting' by Pam Leo and it is a real eye opener. It is also a very gentle book, acknowledging that we all have been conditioned by the way in which we were parented, so if we want to do it differently, it takes a fair bit of work - but at the same time is completely doable.
Something to ponder is what kind of adult do we want our children to be? Are we teaching them to be bullies by using our power and size to dominate them? Is '1, 2, 3' really solving the underlying problem or just meeting our immediate need as parents that our children are seen socially as 'good'? Could parenting with connection be a way of raising more balanced, happy adults? The answers are yours.....each family is completely different.
In the meantime I can not recommend Jo's The Heart of Parenting course highly enough. She is an incredibly knowledgeable facilitator, with such great empathy and skill, that you will feel at home yet inspired. More than anything else I have done to date this course has inspired me to be the best most connected loving parent that I can possibly be, it is better for me and for our family. Jo I am forever grateful!
For more information including course dates (Australia wide) and recommended reading visit
It is no secret that I love national organic magazine Clean Food Organic. I have been writing for them for some years now and still every issue that reaches my hands gives me a little more knowledge. The latest issue is out now and contains an absolute bevy of useful articles.
My article in this issue is 'How Clean is Your Food' and details of just why food washing and hygienic food preparation is so very important. Food poisoning has become a major source of illness and its not just the dodgy take away that does it. You'll be surprised just what can be on your food - I know I was.
In addition to my article the mag features the Max Allen guide to choosing the best Organic and Biodynamic wines, teaches us how to make truly organic sourdough and warns of the dangers of feminine hygiene products. If you are the cooking type, there are also some fantastic recipes.
FOODMATTERS: a documentary about nutrition and health
I've recently been having something of a health battle and when my husband arrived home with the 'Food Matters' DVD with a bounty of supplements from our local health food shop, I knew it was timely. A very busy work, social and family schedule had left us in a patch of sub optimal eating and minimal exercise - it was only a matter of time before it caught up with one of us. I am glad it did catch up with us so soon and that I could be of service as the sacrificial lamb!
The cover of 'FOODMATTERS' quotes Hippocrates the father of modern medicine;
" Let thy food be they Medicine"
How far modern medicine has come, unfortunately not all this has been in the right direction to my mind. Modern medicine is fantastic for acute trauma care, emergency care, incredible surgical techniques but when it comes to helping individuals achieving long term good health, most Doctors will admit, they just don't have the skills or the knowledge. When it comes to nutrition most medical professionals are sorely under qualified.
What I adore about this documentary is that it asks every individual to look into and after their own health. Additionally while it is obvious in its statement that eating well, in the true sense of the term can significantly reduce the incidence of disease, this documentary doesn't bash the medical system as a whole, rather they point out the deficiencies. I must admit they do take a stab at the pharmaceutical industry, but it does seem deserved and it is not without a counterpoint. The experts interviewed for this film come from a varied background including medical doctors and specialists, nutritionists, naturopaths and health activists.
This DVD is so inspiring, so empowering and really essential viewing for anybody who puts food into their mouth. The statistics are horrific and if you think that feeling 'average' is normal and that regular pharmaceutical drug consumption is just part of modern life - then I urge you to watch this and then pass it on to your family and friends.
If you don’t already know about Misoh – ladies you are missing out! I was spoiled with a Misoh Organic Ruby Robe (in a smashing silver colour) this mother's day, thank goodness as my Misoh Carly wrap was getting a little chilly! Everything in this range is just so comfortable and so beautiful, it really makes you feel like a domestic goddess - even if you have just burnt the toast!
Organic Ruby Robe by Misoh
For so long the search for really sexy organic sleepwear often ended in a dead end. In 2008 we introduced CleanLifers to Rebecca Bird, the founder and director of Misoh and her incredibly soft and unbelievably comfortable range. The other important part of this range, well for me anyway is that they are very flattering (on my body at least!!).
Since late 2008 the Misoh range has grown so we thought it was time to catch up with Bec again and find out a little about her new range and her inspiration.
Rebecca Bird - Misoh Founder
GC:Your range is incredibly comfortable, yet alluring and importantly a far better for our environment that conventional sleepwear, given that you use certified organic cotton and vegetable dyes. What was the driving force or inspiration behind you starting Misoh?
RB: I was getting ready to send my second child off to ‘big school’ and I knew it was time to get back to full time work. Starting my own business appealed to me because I wanted the flexibility to fit in with the kids and school holidays etc. I had a few different ideas initially but after many years experience in the rag trade starting my own label was the natural path for me to take. I wanted to steer clear of conventional man made fabrics and offer mainstream consumers an alternative to their everyday fashion clothing. One thing led to another and Misoh was created.
GC:You have managed to keep your pricing really competitive with non-organic items, how do you manage this?
RB: We operate from home and are family owned and operated and while that means occasionally means burning the candle at both ends it also helps us keep our expenses down and achieve our competitive pricing. We had to compromise and have our garments made off shore in order to compete with mainstream labels. My vision from the outset was to offer everyday women the option of Organic cotton rather than a select few that could afford the high price tag. As our business grows I do hope to have all of our manufacturing done locally – that is my ultimate dream for Misoh.
GC:For readers who are yet to get into organic underwear and pyjamas, what reasons would you give to convert them to the idea that organic is a better option?
RB: It has really amazed me that so many of our customers are totally unaware of the benefits or the properties of Organic Cotton. We educate them with our swing tags and promo material in store explaining that our cotton is grown and manufactured without harmful pesticides and chemicals. These days we are inundated with information regarding conventional cotton in particular and the fact that it is the most highly sprayed crop in the world and that approximately one third of conventional cotton is made up of chemicals. I certainly do not want that against my skin while I sleep at night. I am not saying that I am perfect by any stretch of the imagination but if you have the option and people can afford it they are usually willing to give it a try. The proof is in the pudding of course so my best advice would be to try our p.j’s!!!
GC:It is about to get a fair bit cooler on our side of the world, what basics would you recommend for someone just considering organic sleepwear?
Take a peak online, we have some gorgeous new Winter styles that have just become available along with another few styles due to arrive at the end of this month. There are some cosy warm styles for the cooler climates and also some light weight options for our more tropical regions.
GC: Your new line looks fabulous, with everything from nightdresses, to PJs and amazing robes. What are you three favourite items and why?
‘Grace’ has to be my favourite story… Including a Long Pyjama, Chemise and a Cross Over Wrap made with a soft blend of Bamboo and Organic Cotton. It’s all about Vintage Movie Star Glamour teamed with comfort and practicality.
"Grace" story organic pajamas by Misoh
Visitwww.misoh.com.auto see the full range of beautiful sleepwear that you just won't want to get out of.
A good friend from the UK, told me about this film many months ago - I have been desperate to see it and now it has hit Perth shores. I am seeing it next week, but thought I would give people some links to check out, so that you don't have to wait for my review. From what I have heard Food Inc, should be compulsory viewing for anybody that eats!
While I believe that everyone can benefit from reducing their exposure to environmental pollutants when and where possible, unborn babies and newborns are at the highest risk for a variety of reasons. The following paragraph is an exert from an article I wrote for Clean Food Organic issue 6.
Our most vulnerable group
Prenatal and newborn exposure to potentially dangerous synthetic chemicals is more concerning than adult exposure. In 2005 the US Environmental Protection Agency concluded that carcinogens are on average 10 times more potent for babies than adults, with some thought to be 65 times more potent. Newborns absorb chemicals more rapidly due to high respiratory rates and increased skin permeability. Additionally babies have an immature blood – brain barrier, providing them with less protection against these toxic substances and children of all ages have a decreased ability to process and eliminate chemicals. Studies have shown an increased concentration of some chemicals in the blood of the foetus compared to the mother.Children have also been found to have lower levels of some chemical binding proteins allowing more of a chemical to reach target organs. Exposure at a young age also leaves a long period of time for the chronic effects of these chemicals to manifest.
(full article available in Clean Food Organic Issue 6 for purchase online atwww.cleanfood.com.au).
With this in mind I was so exceptionally happy to find out about The Natural Newborn. This incredible online store has so many beautiful things that are safe and green. Whether you want glass or stainless steel baby bottles (as opposed to plastic), organic bedspreads and sheets, wooden toys or organic baby carriers, this site has it all. Our daughter Lilian is loving her organic pink sheets and her organic princess fairy organic quilt and I have my eye on the ecococoon stainless steel cups. If you want a good, thought provoking parenting read, then check out barefoot magazine (available on the natural newborn website), - I love it and after reading two issues will be subscribing soon. All this and a whole lot more is available online atwww.thenaturalnewborn.com.au
Jo Ipock, Founder of The Natural Newborn
We asked Jo Ipock, the founder of The Natural Newborn to tell us a little about her business, why she started it and the ethics behind it all. This is what she said;
The Natural Newborn is a family run online business that sells natural and organic baby, mother and children’s products.
The birth of my online business came after a very frustrating afternoon of looking for some flushable liners at my local supermarket.I went home empty-handed and said to my husband, Todd, that if I couldn’t find what I was looking for then I was going to do something about it!
After our first daughter, Emma, was born we had endless problems with her skin, eczema and nappy rash. Everything that was store-bought, including disposable nappies, gave her some sort of reaction. So, there began my research and discovery of natural products. We changed Emma to cloth nappies and the transformation was almost instantaneous. There was no kicking, screaming, crying or nappy rash when it was time to change a nappy. The relief for both her and me was fabulous and I've been hooked on cloth nappies ever since. This change from disposable nappies to cloth nappies was just the start when it came to changing to natural & eco-friendly alternatives.We also changed the skincare products we were using on the kids (and ourselves) and have them sleeping on organic mattresses and sheets.All the plastic in the house has been replaced with glass containers and stainless steel bottles.It is a slow process but one that I think will have a positive impact on their lives.Not only do they learn about reusing bottles and shopping bags but they are also exposed to far less chemicals.
After spending hours and hours of research on the internet I have found some fabulous products.I try to locate Australian-made or owned products but if I can’t then I do head off-shore and source from overseas.Our extensive product range includes BPA free glass and stainless steel baby bottles, organic cotton and bamboo sheets blankets and towels, organic cotton cot mattresses and pillows, natural skincare, wooden toys, organic toys and teethers, biodegradable nappy bags and wipes and organic maternity products.
We also try to be as eco-friendly as possible when running the online shop and also in our personal lives.We recycle (the kids love taking out the recycling!) and buy recycled products, have 2 composts and pet chickens to reuse food scraps, have 100% green power at home (which is also the office), attempt to fix things instead of throwing them away or buying new replacements, buy organic food and products, have used cloth nappies on both our girls, try to educate others on the benefits of using natural and organic products, have had the family car converted to gas, grow our own vegies and get the kids involved and have a grey water system (which involves buckets - nothing sophisticated!).
The Natural Newborn also attends markets and expos in Perth to give parents the opportunity to look at and touch the products in real life and to hopefully educate them on problems with everyday items such as BPA in plastic baby bottles.Most parents are unaware that you can buy glass and stainless steel baby bottles!
Product reviews: Burt's Bees Men's Body Wash, Burt's Shea Butter Hand Repair Cream and Mama Bee's Belly Balm
It is that time of year again, the weather is getting cooler and I'm finding it a little harder to get up in the mornings (despite my 2.5year old shouting 'the birds are chirping it's time to get up everyone!'). While I am a big advocate of short showers, I still think an aromatic short shower should help you get geared up for the day ahead. That is why I LOVE.... Burt's Bees Men's Body Wash. Despite the label stating 'Natural Skin Care for Men' this is my favourite product at the moment. The heady scents of bergamot, lemon, orange, patchouli, petitgrain, and rosemary give it the most incredible natural scent that makes me feel wonderful. My husband also loves it but noted that it does have a touch of 'old spice' smell to it, but in a very good way. My father wore 'Old Spice' when I was younger so it has wonderfully comforting memories for me. The greatest thing about this body wash is that you can buy it for your man and then use it yourself!!
When Burt's Shea butter hand repair creme arrived in the mail I was a little confused. The blurb on the Internet had stated that the product was 100% natural, however when it arrived the package noted '98% natural'. I contacted Burt's Bees and they were fantastic in providing me all the details. The product had some time ago been changed from 98% natural to 100% natural, however there was still a large number of empty boxes and tubes, stating '98% natural' on them. An environmental decision was made by management that all these extra packaging products should be used up rather than discarded and recycled. I was impressed. After trying the cream, I was even more impressed.
Unfortunately when it comes to health and beauty 'maintenance' I am a bit on the lazy side. I can never find time to spend hours lathering myself in creams and I must admit that when it comes to hand cream, I have probably used two tubes in my entire life and that was when I was working as a Physio and washing my hands 20 times a day. The great thing about this Burt's Bees creme is that it is so incredibly rich that even if I apply it every second day - it makes my dry 'mummy hands' feel and look 100% better. It is so rich that it can be used on elbows, feet and cuticles - a multi purpose product.
If you find it hard to find the time to treat yourself with hand creme, I recommend the following: DISH WASHING MEDITATION
* Lather your hands in the creme before doing the dishes
* place your lathered hands into natural biodegradable latex gloves (provided you don't have a latex allergy)
* enjoy the warmth of the water and natural scent of your dish liquid (I like ecostore)
* enjoy the action of doing the dishes
(If you don't like gloves, you can still do this, but just put the creme on once you have finished the dishes!)
Those of you raising your eyebrows in disbelief - please try it. I am certainly not a domestic goddess, but I figure I have to do the dishes anyway - I may as well enjoy it!
Oh to be that pregnant glowing woman! I am now 19 weeks pregnant with our second child and have survived about 11 weeks of pretty nasty 'all day and all night sickness'. Yes for those still calling it 'morning sickness' please update your dictionary! Whoever named it that had either never had the condition or had a very poor sense of time. As one friend pointed out - it is always morning somewhere in the world!
Anyway enough wining, the thing is that during pregnancy for many woman sense of smell becomes incredibly acute, especially in the first few months. I experience this in a fairly marked way and can't tolerate a load of things, even some that are natural. So the Mama Bee Belly Balm is just what the stretch mark prevention team ordered. It is fragrance free and a very soothing comforting balm to rub anywhere that is expanding with speed!. The texture is beautiful and while my 'pregnancy sickness' state meant that I was happy to let my legs and arms dry out until they became a pile of snowflake dust, applying this delightful balm to my belly and other expansion zones was a treat that I did manage to do at least every couple of days! I also found it useful on my daughters mosquito bites, they reduced the itch almost immediately and I have to admit that I also used it as a lip balm when caught short! Time to buy another one for the second half of the pregnancy!
The Burt’s Bees range is available at David Jones, Terry White Chemists and selected retail outlets. For stockist information, phone 1300 855 478 or visit the store locator at www.burtsbees.com.au
'Misoh Organic Essentials' hits the stores again this winter with a gorgeous range of earth friendly sleepwear and underwear for women.
Mixing feminine, romantic styling with cosy, eco friendly fabrics… Bamboo, Organic Cotton and Organic Velour.
Launched in 2008 the Misoh label had overwhelming success with it’s fresh, unique approach to women’s sleepwear. Offering women an unforgettable and yet affordable collection of nightwear while also being an environmentally responsible company.
The star of their new Winter collection is ‘Vintage Hollywood’ inspired ‘Grace story’ (see photo). Three glamorous co-ordinating pieces in classic Black and a soft shade of Aqua in our Bamboo and Organic Cotton Blend.
According to Misoh founder (Rebecca Bird), the only complaint from customers so far….. you don’t ever want to get out of your Misoh PJ’s. Lucky they look so good!
Some time ago a fantastic little book arrived at CleanLife. While I had given up dying my hair altogether almost four years ago, what I liked about this little book was it not only offered information on the potential for harm in many hair dyes (especially given we seem to use them for a good chunk of our lives), but that it also offered safe alternatives, for those who still want the possibilities of colour, without the potential hazards.
Susan Lockie is the author of ‘Hair Raising Information: The toxic hair dye industry’ and director of Organic Haircare Supplies (www.organichaircare.com.au). In this interview you will learn a little more about hair dye, natural alternatives and the lady behind the book.
GC: Susan in addition to writing an outstanding book, that every woman with hair should read, you run an online store featuring natural hair and skincare products. How did you get to this point and what started you along this path?
I am a hairdresser of over 30 years and I finally read the precautions on hair dye. I was shocked to read “Do not use on eyelashes or eyebrows, as to do so may cause blindness” plus the allergy and cancer risks are an issue. I did massive research .I felt I needed to write a book as a moral obligation. Hairdressers do not read precautions rather they learn in hairdressing schools and in shop. The industry has not taught the hairdresser the actual truth about the toxic nature of hair dyes.
Susan Lockie
GC: I think it is sometimes easier to believe that if hair salon products were harmful, that our government would outlaw there use. That is certainly not the case when it comes to hair dye, can you tell us more?
By law it is necessary to wear goggles a mask, closed in shoes, when applying hair dye in a hairdressing salon. Nobody enforces this rule.
GC: When I was writing an article for CleanFood Organic last year I was upset to find that hairdressing is one of the worst professions for your health according to the world health organisation. This is mind; I am surprised that most hairdressers are not leading the push to only use safe products. Are things improving for hairdressers?
Not much yet, Hairdressers believe hair dye is okay- the harmful effects are not discussed – at least around 80% of women in the world dye their hair- complacency sets in.
GC: When I am talking to women about using safe dyes as opposed to conventional treatments, many are concerned they won’t look as good or last as long. Can you tell us a little more about the options available and how they work, last etc?
Logona Herbal Hair Colours work on everyone, but it is different. A more natural translucent look – non synthetic appearance.
Stefanie (before)
Stefanie (after)
GC: For people who are looking to start the conversion to natural hair colouring, how would you recommend they go about it?
Be patient – natural colours are plant colours and there is a beautiful result for everyone-it is just choosing the correct colour and getting a build up,colouring the regrowth each month for maintenance. Professional advice is not readily available, however I feel that hairdressers will slowly move to a genuine natural colour of plant only. Unfortunately there is thousands of toxic ingredients to choose from for a manufacturer of hair dye and taking out ammonia and peroxide means nothing . It is what is in it that really counts. Check the ingredients for Phenylenediamine ( PPD )and phenol.
Natural hair colour will be predominately henna, along with walnut shells – beetroot and herbs- no chemical. Try it you will love the feel .
Sometimes it can all seem too hard to live ethically - or at least that is what people often tell me. No doubt it does require a little extra planning - but if we can all just change one thing a month to a more ethical sustainable choice and then stick to that - an enormous difference can be created. In the case of coffee, just by buying organic fair trade coffee, you will be improving the lives of producers and their families, reducing environmental impact and reducing your exposure to potentially harmful pesticides.
So the question remains, if you could improve the lives of poorer neighbours, improve your health and reduce your impact on the environment, just by changing you brand of coffee....would you?
This month we offer just one of the many fantastic organic, fair trade coffees - taste it - it is no sacrifice, in fact I'm betting you'll wonder how you ever got the conventional stuff down. Best of all - the aftertaste is so much sweeter!
Toby’s Estate Fairtrade coffee(www.tobysestate.com.au) is coffee that has been purchased at a fair price - a price that allows the farmers in developing countries to meet the basic requirements for shelter, food, medical treatment, education and community development.
Toby’s Estate offers coffee collectives a guaranteed fair price per kilo for their coffee.
By choosing Fairtrade Coffee, Australia’s coffee drinkers can make a very real impact on the lives of some of the world’s poorest people. Adding four new Fairtrade coffees to the 30 single origin coffees we already roast daily is a small but vital step in becoming more responsible to millions of coffee farmers around the world.
Toby's estate is soon to provide the CleanLife team with some of there wonderful coffee to give away as a prize - so make sure you are telling your friends about CleanLife to be in the running and stay tuned.
In the meantime Perthites might like to visit The Leaf and Bean Emporium, 178A, Scarborough Beach Rd, Mt Hawthorn, for some seriously good Toby's estate coffee.
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of the fabulous cook and author Jude Blereau. Reading her books are for me like reading a warming novel, yet ultimately more nourishing and rewarding. The gifts keep coming as you cook more and more of her food. So it is an understatement to say that I am excited about her Wholefood for Children (Nourishing children with whole and organic foods) book that is released on the 6th March this year!!
I can not recommend Jude's books and seminars highly enough, and what a treat that we can experience both of these on the 6th March. Booking details can be found below.
Jude is running a seminar aptly titled 'The Season of Harvest' on Saturday the 6th March, read below for more details and how to book. Hope to see you there!
A word from Jude......
This quarter ‘Everyday with Wholefoods’ brings you a look at Autumn and the season of Harvest. We’ll look at what’s coming into season over the next few months, where to get it and how to use it to create delicious meals that heal, nourish and delight!
With the new school year underway, our focus this seminar will be on children. We’ll take a closer look at lunches for both children and adults. We will be also celebrating Jude’s harvest – the publication of her new book “Wholefood for Children – Nourishing Young Children with Whole and Organic Foods”. This beautiful new edition will be available on the day or for pre-purchase.
You’ll also hear from two local food producers – Bee Winfield from Merri Bee Organic Farm, who grows a wide range of organic food including delicious eggs (what makes a good egg?) and meat (Merri Bee is the only source of certified organic, nitrate free bacon in Perth) and Gotthard Bauer from Yallingup Woodfired Bread (Demeter certified & biodynamic) who will share what makes a bread good!
We’ll also have a wonderful range of suppliers for you to meet and shop with on the day.
Saturday 6th March 2010
Time: 1pm – 4.30pm (Doors open from 12.15pm)
Venue: FJ Clarke Lecture Theatre
P Block, QEII Medical Centre,
Nedlands. Access off Caladenia Ave
(via Monash Ave)
Price: $35 (seating is unallocated, tiered theatre-style)
Books, local produce and other merchandise
will be on display and sale from 12.15pm
Enquiries & Bookings
events@wholefoodcooking.com.au
To purchase tickets online please go to www.wholefoodcooking.com.auand click on the
link to the blog. Updated event and purchase details
can be found there.
Monday, March 29, 2010
NOT a super mum
Recently I received a post on the CleanLife Blog that was more than a little concerning to me. Firstly because it gently accused me of being a super mother, which frankly I don't think exist but secondly because it made me think, oh dear, am I giving the impression that I live the perfect life? Because that would be more than a little misleading. I'll let you read the comment first and below it you will find out exactly why I am so so so so so far from a super mother. I will warn you my reply is very long, very real and honest (possibly too much so)!.
Anonymous said...
Hello there,
I have just logged on to your website and read all the latest that you are promoting...All very interesting and informative, as it seems to be whenever I google your website, but I must say that I find it unrealistic for you to expect certain people to have the time in their life to attend to the events that you promote.
You may find it easy to commit time and money, I ask is this your real job? Are you a mother who has has all the time in the world to find information on this topic and attend sessions whenever you please. You must be a Super mother or someone with alot of money and time on your hands. I find that every day time is precious to me. I love to spend quality time with my children and have little time for these sorts of things in my life. Are you living the real world?
Look, I am a ordinary suburbian mother of three school aged children and also a part-time worker with a husband who works long hours(not uncommon) living from payday to payday!,regretably,I find that I have little time to attend the seminars such as the ones you constantly promote on your website.
I ask where do mothers such as myself find the time to do this? Are you living the real life of a mother and wife yourself?
Anonymous
My reply;
Dear Anonymous,
Thank you for taking the time to check out our website and blog, it is always humbling to know that people are reading. I always appreciate comments be they negative and positive as I think there is always something to learn. In this case perhaps it is the fact that a website conveys all the shiny glossy joys of ones life without transmitting the difficulties, pains and hardships that we ALL face.
Certainly with three kids, your workload is significantly higher than mine, I barely cope with one, so I can see how getting to any events is tougher for you.
I am absolutely not a super mum, my poor husband who is currently doing almost all the cooking and cleaning in addition to working full time, while I battle my way through relatively severe 'all day and all night sickness';( ie: I am pregnant but refuse to call it morning sickness) will attest to that! Some days my house is neat and tidy, but currently on most days, I think - 'I hope nobody drops in today - they won't believe the mess!'.
In response to your direct comments and questions;
1) I do not attend every single event that I mention on the website. However over the past four years I have attended most of them in some form or another and found them useful. It is for that reason that when they come around again I recommend them. I certainly would not expect that any one person could attend them all. At many times I barely have the energy to post the events on the website, let alone attend them. However many people do attend as often these events have hundreds of attendees and in many cases they are mostly mums, some with newborns in slings. When I do attend I enjoy them immensely and they inspire me to keep going, to do the best that I can and be happy with that. It is very empowering to also see that there are many other women who are trying to learn all they can to provide the healthiest safest environment for their families. Many people will achieve this without ever attending an event, for others it is the events that provide the catalyst to start and the inspiration to continue. Money can be an issue, however the majority of events we promote are relatively cheap with many around $10 and a significant amount have been free. In the case of the wholefood seminar, which I did attend, it was more costly at $35 but for me it provided the inspiration that I needed.
2) As for this being my real job, indeed it is. I gave up being a full time Physio in late 2004 in London, backpacked (on a tight budget) with my hubby for a year, before starting CleanLife in early 2006. Throughout this time I have done part time work as a Physiotherapy tutor, a policy officer in the health department and several other bits and pieces to supplement my income. I now contract out to companies for sustainability and eco accreditation services (in addition to running CleanLife) and at the moment, I am doing this one day a week for a my family's business. I certainly don't have money to waste, like most mothers, I can hunt for a bargain fairly well, we grow a lot of our own vegetables and I am now part of a small co-op to purchase our organic staples. Like most young families, we find the flood of bills concerning despite our attempt to live modestly.
3) I like you love spending as much time as possible with my daughter and husband. They are without exception my number one priority. Prior to my daughters birth I was a serious career woman and thought that I would be back to work with gusto as soon as possible. In reality the moment she arrived into our bath - yes you read that correctly - I knew that work was never going to be a priority in my life ever again. Since then I have battled constantly with the desire to help people find information about eco-friendly and organic living vs the NEED to be at home with my daughter at all times! My business was only a little more than 1.5 years old when Lilian arrived and still needed ongoing attention. I worked every moment she slept, putting myself into complete exhaustion, three bouts of mastitis and several other illnesses later, I finally realised that this was ridiculous and I started to take up more of the offers of help from my mother in-law and my mother. I guess when you say 'Do I live in the real world?' you are assuming that I am a rich woman, with a nanny etc etc. I am NOT! (although I have to admit, if I was really rich, I do think I would have a full time cleaner, who could also cook!). I do have the absolute luxury of a cleaner for three hours once a week, without her, the floor just wouldn't be a safe place for children, especially given how much they enjoy eating off it! We have also moved to live closer to my parents and only 300metres from my in-laws who have been of enormous assistance with caring for Lilian. And no we do not use daycare, because we have been so lucky with family being so close and so keen to help. I do all the regular mum things including shopping at four different places to get all the organic goodies I want, playgroup - I'm also on the committee of that one, swimming, music - this is my reality.
We got to the point where I was COPING...just....then.... I got pregnant.
Now 2.5 years since Lilian's birth we are expecting our second child and for the second time I have been sick all day and all night since week 6 of the pregnancy. This has again made me re-assess my lifestyle. The reality is that we can NOT 'have it all'. Or at least I can't. I think that catch phrase is so incredibly damaging. Some women do seem to manage everything really really well - family - work -home. I am certainly NOT one of those women, and if we are honest, very few women really are either. My close friends will know this, mostly because many have not seen me for weeks, while I have been barely coping to have toilet paper in the house (OK lets be honest, we used tissue and baby bum wipes for three days last week!). I can see however that those who meet me at a work function or socially, would certainly think I have it all. Amazing husband - tick, gorgeous daughter -tick, loving and helpful extended family- tick. But as for everything else - it is still very much a work in progress.
I am working over the next three months, to reduce my workload to the absolute minimal, so that I can enjoy the remainder of my pregnancy, and enjoy my newborn when he or she arrives. I have already started turning work away and in fact, I have been doing this since my daughter was born. This has actually been a really difficult decision for me, I spend hours upon hours of time, answering questions and emails from loyal CleanLife readers about all things natural, organic and eco-friendly. In the last six months however I have been unable to keep up with demand and this free part of our service must end. Never fear the website and BLOG will still run, with all the information, but I personally won't be as available as I have been. My family and my health must come first.
So in closing, I am most sorry if I ever gave you the impression that I was a super mother. In my opinion they actually don't exist and if they did, I would be the last to be nominated. I have to say that I will continue to list up and coming events. In my mind it is like going the library, they don't expect you to read every book, you only pick what you want and know you will have time to read, but there is still a lot on offer. I'm just letting people know that these events are available.
So there is the truth - in its harsh reality - my life is just like yours it seems.
Before ending I must say that I can't complete this article without saying that while I feel every inch of these mothering difficulties, I know that overall I have an easy life, compared to women in poorer regions of the world and for that I will always be truly grateful. Oh but here it comes again, now I can't stop thinking about what more can I do to promote helping women in poverty stricken regions - and again i see my life floating between charity work and mothering. Will I ever find a balance?
Keen to take comments from any mothers who have achieved balance!
This article was written is super speed on the way to pick up my daughter from her in-laws, so please accept all errors - typos etc - indeed I am a flawed woman!
These are a few of my favourite things... Gina's Christmas gift guide
Christmas is a very special time for me. I think the excitement is palpable around the city and the serenity of the countryside it somehow more revitalizing at this time of year. For me it doesn't matter if I am in cold London or sunny Perth, I love the whirlwind that surrounds us be it in frost or sunshine.
What I don't claim to love is the tacky side of Christmas, with cheap toys and gimmicky gifts that will entertain for a day, perhaps a month at best and then find their way to landfill, to later pollute our waterways as the toxic components of the item begin to leach under the hot January sun.
That said, I am not opposed to gifts, I think they are wonderful, or at least they CAN be wonderful. In my opinion, if you are making the effort to give a gift, no matter the cost, make it thoughtful, appropriate and try to ensure that it is something that will add to the receiver's quality of life. So what is considered a good gift?
In my mind there are hundreds of good gifts here are a few of my personal favourites;
1) A donation to a charity in the persons name is very special. If you can find a charity that suits the likes and character of the receiver, all the better. When our daughter was born, some very close friends gave us an 'organic vegetable farm and training' for a community in India. We thought this was such a beautiful notion, that we later asked that donations like this be given in lieu of presents at her Christening. I also feel that this kind of gift is perfect for those who are not happy with anything you give them. You know the type, every family has someone who manages to complain, or just act bored, no matter how many hours of thought you have put into the gift. It is as simple as getting online and donating. You will usually get sent a card to give, with details of the gift.
2) Services and memberships are also a personal favourite for me, because they usually inspire people to do something nice, be it a massage voucher or an annual membership to the zoo. There is no material gift as such and it can really be the gift that keeps giving, as if well choosen, your friend will still be attending the zoo or taking art class for the next 12 months.
3) Queen B candles (www.queenb.com.au)
It is fair to say that I am a little in love with these magnificent beeswax creations. They are carbon neutral, purify the air, smell like honeycomb and look incredible. When I am finding the world a little too much, I light one of these, sit with a good cup of tea and do nothing (which is actually harder than you may think!). You must experience these candles to see how truly beautiful they are. Words really can't explain it. They are beautifully presented and make a magnificent gift for anyone who needs to unwind.
The staple-less stapler
4) Stocking Fillers and Kris Kringle
I am a huge fan of Kris Kringle, but not if it means buying cheap, nasty items. Check out the websites on our directory that offer great little gifts that are perfect for this. I LOVE burts bees super shiny lip glosses and have a staple-less stapler from biome (www.biome.com.au) on my wish list! How cool, a stapler that really does not need staples. I just haven't been able to justify it just yet given I still have staples from 1999 in my office!
5) Gifts made from recycled materials are perfect, and are truly an example of things being sweeter the second time around!Try www.ecodepot.com.au
6) Organic goodies of all kinds always make me smile. I love organic sleepwear from misoh (www.misoh.com.au) and find the 'calm' organic perfume from Miessence (www.organics4ever.com), to be completely divine!
6) Finally the best gift for me is time spent with family and friends. I love baking in the kitchen to Christmas carols with my daughter, sitting back with a cup of tea or wine with friends or playing cards with my siblings. So grab any moment this festive season and make it count.
