Category — Holiday

If you are looking for the perfect gift for your little one- look no further. KAIKU, meaning “to grow” is a brand that knows how to provide your children with safe, active and meaningful designs. Designer Scot Herbst, a graduate of the Art Center College of Design, uses modern designs to create a variety of products such as modern furniture, consumer electrics, housewares and toys. During this holiday season, check out Herbst’s award-winning Zen Wagon. This all-natural and ergonomic wagon is one item your kids will definitely want! Enter NATURALWHEELS at checkout now to save $25. For more information on KAIKU, please visit kaikudesign.com.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

I am a chocolate junkie. And while I manage to refrain from indulging my sweet tooth after every meal (only in a perfect world!), when I do eat the dark stuff, I like to choose bars that are socially-responsible. Some of my favorite chocolate comes from Equal Exchange, whose goods are fair-trade certified. Founded in 1986 the brand seeks to empower small farmer co-ops and support sustainable farming methods. They often partner with co-operatives of farmer who provide high-quality organic coffees, teas, chocolates, bananas and snacks from all over the world. Equal Exchange is trying to provide local communities with a better food system and in turn, a healthier planet, which in my book, is pretty sweet. For a limited time, Equal Exchange is offering KIWI readers 15% off on any online order through 1/15/11. Just enter code KIWIGIFT for yummy, discounted holiday gifts that do a whole lot of good.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

No matter which tunes your family loves, I think I speak for everyone when I say music plays an important role in kids’ lives. Growing up, I listened the sounds of jazz and blues with my grandparents, and it really helped to establish my taste in music and culture today. Of course, if you aren’t sure your little ones are quite ready for such complex listening, there are plenty of music options made specifically with kids in mind. Problem is, us grown-ups usually have to listen, too, and some of it can start to drive you nuts after a while. Enter jam master Keller Williams, and his new album for the under-10 set, Kids. Fun, fresh, and funky, this is one CD your whole family will be able to live with (and after a few listens, may not be able to live without!). Listen to samples and order your copy today at kellerwilliamskids.com.

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

Tonight, many of us at KIWI will be celebrating the first night of Hanukkah, and we know many of you are doing the same. Here, a craft from our December/January issue (on newsstands next week!) that’ll make the Festival of Lights even brighter.

Materials
•    8 small glass jars
•    1 large glass jar
•    White paper
•    Several colors of nontoxic 3-D paint
Instructions
1.    Soak jars in warm soapy water to remove labels; dry.
2.    Slip a rolled-up piece of white paper inside the jar. This will make it easier to see what you’re working on.
3.    Add a simple shape—such as a flower, circle, or star—with one color using dots of paint. Repeat the shape in several places on the jar. Another easy way to start is with a line around or across the jar.
4.    Outline the shapes in a different color with more dots. Continue adding dots, either outlining the original shape or creating new patterns until the entire jar is covered. You may need to take a break to allow the paint to dry as you move around the jar.
5.    Once complete, put a votive candle or tea light in each jar.

-Marygrace, staff writer. Craft by Kris Bordessa.

This year, it seems more folks than ever are eschewing big, glitzy holiday gifts in favor smaller, more personal presents (or no presents at all!). And I’m all for it: Creating handmade gifts is one way to put some extra time, thought, and care into giving this season. Not handy with the glue gun? Me neither—but that’s okay! All across the country, local craft fairs abound over the next couple of weeks, giving us less-than-artistically-inclined people the opportunity to seek out the perfect hand-sewn doll, glass-blown vase, or silkscreened tote for everyone on our list. Not only will your gifts be more awesome than anything you could pick up at an overcrowded mall, they’ll support artists in your community and give money to your local economy. (Local, handmade gifts also likely require less resources, since they aren’t mass-manufactured, tend to use more sustainable materials, and aren’t shipped long distances.)

Sounds good, no? Even better, craft blog Hello Craft recently posted a huge list of craft fairs in major cities across America, with plenty more happenings posted by readers in the comments section. I’m actually almost tempted to take a road trip across the country to stop at craft fair after craft fair, but then I’d probably wipe out my holiday gift budget just on gasoline alone. No worries–I’ll definitely be checking out the Local Foods Holiday Gift Fair at here in Austin to pick up some extra special treats to round out my homemade edible gift baskets. (Note: The Local Foods Holiday Gift Fair is probably one of the many, many gift fairs that aren’t included on Hello Craft’s list, so be sure to check your town’s local listings, too!) And if you can’t make it out to a craft fair in your community—never fear! There’s always Etsy.

Are you supporting handmade gifts this holiday season?

-Marygrace, staff writer

On a last-minute search for the perfect vegetarian or vegan main dish for your Thanksgiving table? Our suggestions from last year were such a hit, we decided to share them once more. Instead of another rice-stuffed squash (or worse–fake turkey!), consider the following:

1. Mushroom strudel. Saute sliced mushrooms with plenty of olive oil, garlic, fresh thyme, and—if your guests do dairy—a splash of cream. Place the mixture running down the center of a large rectangle of phyllo dough, then fold dough over and crimp shut. Cut into slices and bake until dough is golden brown. Serve with a meat-free gravy.
2. Squash and mushroom lasagna. Just like regular lasagna, but replace layers of red sauce with sauteed winter squash and shiitake mushrooms. You can even make the dish vegan by making a tofu ricotta (whiz 2 lbs. firm tofu in your food processor with a few tablespoons olive oil, some salt, basil, oregano, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice).
3. Winter veggie potpie. Roast onions, carrots, squash, and potatoes until caramelized. Then, make an easy cream sauce with a few tablespoons each butter (or non-hydrogenated buttery spread) and flour, plus milk (or unsweetened soymilk). Combine the veggies and sauce in a baking dish, then top with rounds of puff pastry. Bake until pastry is golden.
4. Mushroom bourguignon. Just like the French classic, but made with earthy portobello mushrooms instead of meat (and vegetable stock rather than the traditional beef). The best recipe I’ve found is right here.
5. Kale, sweet potato, and chickpea gratin. Toss chopped kale, thinly sliced sweet potato rounds, and chickpeas in plenty of olive oil, seasoned breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and salt to taste. Bake in a foil-covered casserole dish until potatoes are tender, then top with Parmesan cheese (if desired) and bake uncovered until cheese is melted.

-Marygrace, staff writer

If it’s not already marked on your calendar with a big, red circle, grab a pen—Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 9th. To gear up, some members of the KIWI team decided to share what they love about their moms. Here’s what they had to say:

• Nicole McGovern, Editorial Intern:  “I’d choose to spend time with my mom over anyone else. She’s my other half; I’m pretty sure everything would fall apart without her!”

• Brittany Golde, Marketing Manager: “My mom is the most selfless person I’ve ever met and would go to the ends of the Earth for me. She’s truly an incredible person who will always listen to and support me—and always has something new to teach me.”

• Rosemary O’Connell, Creative Director: “My mother is my teacher and my friend all in one! She is there for me no matter what.”

• Sarah Smith, Editorial Director: “I could talk your ear off about all the reasons I want to grow up to be just like my mom: she’s generous, she’s funny, she’s clearly in control of the space-time continuum because how else does she get so much done in a week without breaking a sweat? But what I might love most of all is how she always finds the right words to say. Whether she’s thrilled or disappointed, whether she’s been asked for advice or is asking for help, she has an artful, graceful way of saying what she thinks so that people will hear, and understand. I love that she believes that words make a difference, and I believe that if anyone’s can, they are hers.”

• Maxine Wolf, CEO and Publisher: “I love how well my mother knows me. She is very non-judgmental and will never offer her opinion, but when asked, she is amazingly on point in her perceptions, analysis, and proposed solutions. I love her for many, many things, but particularly take joy in knowing that I can count her on to know what’s going on with me without me having to tell her, to understand me without me having to defend myself, and to support me no matter what. I hope I am that to my own daughter.”

What makes your mom the best in the world? Let us know in the comments!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

For a lot of people, Christmas or Hanukkah (or maybe Halloween) are the holidays they remember being most excited about as kids. But me? I just loved Easter. I loved searching for plastic eggs filled with quarters (or scratch-off lottery tickets, which my dad hid for us one year. A little unorthodox, maybe, but totally awesome to an eight-year-old), going to my aunt’s house to eat shrimp cocktail (Easter always meant shrimp cocktail), and eating tons of candy. Oh, and dyeing the eggs! I loved watching those color pellets dissolve in the water, and can still remember the smell of the vinegar bath that would lock in the pretty pastel hues.

Nowadays, I shy away from conventional egg-dyeing kits, since they’re usually filled with artificial ingredients that aren’t the healthiest. So imagine my excitement upon finding out that Eco-Kids USA has an all-natural Easter egg coloring kit made with ingredients like purple sweet potato, paprika, red cabbage, and blueberries. Best of all, they’ve offered to give a kit to one of our Facebook fans. Want to win? Head over to our Facebook page and check it out!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Show some love for your sweeties and the planet this February 14th with cards, gifts, treats, and more ideas that are easy on the environment:

• Homemade cards. Check out our tutorial for pretty ones made from soy fiber and recycled paper.
• Waste-free gifts. Our sock-turned-ladybug is a fun craft for kids and grown-ups alike.
• Sweeter treats. This yummy fondue is made from dark, fair trade chocolate, and these heart-shaped sugar cookies from our friends at Florida Crystals are greener (and, I might add, tastier) than a cardboard box full of candies.
• Heartfelt books. Get in the Valentine’s spirit with some of our favorite festive stories.

How is your family celebrating Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

The holiday greetings have already started rolling in my mailbox, but I know some folks who are still scrambling to find and send the perfect cards to their friends and family. If you’re one of them, consider this: Over 2.5 billion holiday cards are sold in the U.S. each year—that’s enough to fill a ten-story building the size of a football field! Even worse, the majority of these cards eventually end up in a landfill as part of the 25 million extra tons of garbage Americans produce from Thanksgiving to New Years. Talk about a lot of trash!

Fortunately, there’s an easy solution. Choosing greeting cards made from post-consumer recycled paper (and that don’t contain metallic foil inserts) ensures that said cards are able to be recycled instead of thrown in the garbage. (Think of it as your holiday gift to the planet!) Where to get eco-friendly cards? Here, some of our favorite places:

• Every card—and there’s a huge selection of them—at MyGoodGreetings.com is made from 100% recycled, FSC-certified paper stock.
• Greenfield Paper Company offers cards made from hemp or ones that recipients can plant in the ground.
• Find cute, modern designs made of recycled paper or eco-friendly wood at Night Owl Paper Goods.

And ahat to do with the holiday cards you receive from others that aren’t recyclable? Fold them up into Uncle Bucky’s Gift Boxes! They’re so cute, no one will want to toss them in the trash.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Tonight marks the beginning of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights! Whether your family celebrates the holiday or is looking to learn a little more about it, kid-friendly books on the subject abound. Some of our favorites:

• Hanukkah Haiku by Harriet Ziefert. Japanese and Jewish cultures collide, with a special haiku poem for every night of the eight-day celebration.
• It’s Hanukkah by Santiago Cohen. Learn about the rituals and traditions of Hanukkah (while honing your kid’s counting skills) one night at a time.
• The Everything Kids’ Hanukkah Puzzle & Activity Book by Beth L. Blair. Find fun Hanukkah-themed games, trivia, crafts, songs, and more to add to your family’s celebration.

Looking for more? Check out all of KIWI Bookworms’ Hanukkah book reviews.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Whether your family celebrates Christmas or not, I’m betting you aren’t familiar with Christmas crackers. (No, I don’t mean a crunchy snack that’s colored red and green or is flavored with any of the holiday spices!) Unless, of course, you happen to be British.

Opened on Christmas morning in England, Christmas crackers (or poppers, as they’re sometimes called) are tube-like packages filled with surprises like small toys, candies, or jokes written on pieces of paper. And the name? When you pull the packages open, they make a loud popping sound.

My family isn’t British—so I’m not sure how the tradition of Christmas crackers got started at our house. Every Christmas morning since as far back as I can remember, my family has sat down to a decadent breakfast (after opening presents, of course!), and each place at the table is set with a Christmas cracker. Everyone pops theirs open and compares the strange prizes that come inside. What’s more, the Christmas crackers my mom gets also have crowns made of colored tissue paper, and we always wear them while we eat our cinnamon rolls and drink our tea. A fun, festive way to kick off the day, don’t you think?

Normally, I’m a big fan of DIY projects, and I found some instructions on how to make homemade Christmas crackers here. But there’d be no element of surprise if you crafted your own—so I say buy them! Find a wide selection at oldenglishcrackers.com.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

The holidays mean shopping—lots of shopping. And while I’m quite excited to help stimulate our ailing economy, I hate what this festive season means for the environment. Since starting a part-time retail job last month, I’m noticing just how much unnecessary waste we generate as holiday shoppers. Every time I reach for another glossy paper bag, I feel a tinge of guilt and hope it will be used as someone’s temporary lunch box once or twice before being tossed.

So what can we do about all this excess baggage? After some creative contemplation, I came up with my plan—I’m making all of my friends (and myself) reusable shopping bags out of my old t-shirts. They’re quick and simple and kill about four birds with one stone: you can get rid of old t-shirts, teach your kids valuable lessons about recycling, give them as gifts, and use them in place of wrapping paper and gift bags. Talk about versatile!

So let’s get started. You’ll need a t-shirt, needle, thread, scissors, and fabric paints, if you’re feeling creative.

Step 1: Start by turning the shirt inside out and pinning the bottom by the hem. Then sew along the hem.
Step 2: Cut off the sleeves at the seam. Now your shirt is sleeveless and the armholes will act as the handles of your bag.
Step 3: Use a large bowl and trace a half-circle around the neck of the shirt. Cut this out to create the opening for your bag.
Step 4: Decorate!

And voila! You’ve got yourself a tote. Happy holiday shopping!

-Stephanie Eckelkamp, KIWI intern and human sewing machine

If you thought the fight against global warming is grown-up stuff, think again. Last week, fifteen-year-old Alec Loorz brought his Declaration of Independence from Fossil Fuels to the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works in an effort to encourage the United States to reduce it’s dependency on petroleum. Perhaps even more impressive? The document was signed by 10,000 kids—and even further backed by 40,000 more online signatures!

In addition to his inspiring declaration, Loorz has launched Kids Vs. Global Warming, a website that seeks to educate youth about the issue of climate change and empower them to make a difference. Our favorite part of the site? A cool, iPod-inspired list of easy solutions that any kid can take on, like recycling a Sunday newspaper or refusing plastic bottles.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

With the weekend festivities ahead, what better time than this to introduce the latest– “green” fireworks. In order for fireworks to burn, a chemical known as potassium perchlorate is used as the oxygen. This chemical is a pollutant and can be quite hazardous to the environment. Researchers have been developing nitrogen-rich formulas that burn cleaner and with less smoke in their aftermath. These more earth-friendly fireworks have already been used at concerts, circuses, and other events. While these “green” fireworks are less pollutant and hazardous on our environment, they can be costly compared to conventional fireworks. Researchers are now facing the biggest challenge- how to market them. As we find out more on how this story progresses, we will keep our KIWI readers afloat! Have a safe holiday weekend and enjoy the fireworks (they MAY be “green!”)

Brittany, KIWI Staff and beach-goer

Here at KIWI, moms are very important to us and to the future of our green babies.  Give your mom an easy, inexpensive Mother’s Day gift by nominating her for our Moms of the Revolution contest. Share her story on how she is revolutionizing the way kids in your community eat. Revolution Foods and KIWI have teamed up for this wonderful, inspiring contest and it does not come as a surprise that others are appreciating how important this contest is. TreeHugger, a well known website focusing on going green, has just mentioned our MOTR contest and we could not be more thrilled! Thanks for your support TreeHugger!  Check it out.

– Brittany, KIWI staff and wishing all moms a happy mother’s day

This Mother’s Day, don’t forget the mamma that takes care of us all—the earth! Give your family a nudge in the green direction to seek out a Mother’s Day gift that shows their love for you and the planet.

Go With Organic Blooms. Point your family toward local farmers’ markets for pretty daffodils, peonies, and ranunculus, which are all in season during May. They can also seek arrangements at orangicbouquet.com.

Wrap Yourself in Silk. If your trusty flannel bathrobe is starting to look shabby, a new silk one will make every night feel like an at-home spa. Check out VivaTerra’s floral, kimono-style robe.

Make it Sweet. Tell your family you’ll be willing to share if they give you a sweet treat this Mother’s Day. Try an organic chocolate sampler from Dagoba, which practices full-circle sustainability in their growing, buying, and manufacturing processes, or a handmade vegan cookie sampler from organic, fair-trade baker Liz Lovely.

Take a Spa Day. Sometimes, the best gift is a little rest and relaxation, so make sure your family knows the name of your favorite holistic spa. A soothing massage, cleansing facial, and tranquil environment will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to dive back into the crazy world of mommyhood.

Get Reading. Sharing a mom-themed bedtime story with your little ones is the perfect way to top off this family-filled day. Here are some books to get your started:

• Mama’s Kiss by Jane Yolen. If someone blows you a kiss and you don’t catch it, where does it go? Follow a little girl as she chases momma’s missed kiss all over the place and finally catches it. The illustrations are perfect, showing a fluttering, flittering, elusive kiss.
• LIFE with Mother by The Editors of Life Magazine. Honestly, some books should simply come with a complimentary box of tissues. Life Magazine has compiled a gorgeous photo tribute to moms around the world. The photos in both color and black and white are incredibly touching. They depict the intense bond of mother and child. A few famous faces appear, but this is every mom’s story.
• Mommy, Mama, and Me (board book) by Lesléa Newman (Tricycle Press). This sweet little board book takes a look at a family which has two moms and the happy style of play and love that each mother has. The illustrations are simple and perfectly accompany the text.

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) commemorates the Mexican victory over the French on May 5, 1862 in Puebla. It is recognized around the world as a celebration of Mexican heritage and culture. For dinner tonight, create an authentic Mexican dish that’s mindful of the Earth. Try our Tofu and Cheese Quesadillas. Got your own delicious recipe? Post in a comment below.

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of tofu and cheese quesadillas

Make this V-Day memorable with these green ways to say, “I love you!”:

• Couples Yoga — Yoga studios all over are hosting couples yoga classes teaching techniques to help relax each other, ease pain and tension, and connect in a loving, healing way.
• Cook Dinner — Create your favorite meal with organic or local ingredients. Be sure to save room for dessert. On the menu, our Chocolaty Coconut Mini Tortes.
• Send an Eco-Craft — Create handmade valentines with our easy-to-make eco-crafts: Card-io and Love Bug.
• Rethink Romantic Gifts – “Consider giving e-cards instead of paper cards, antique or recycled jewelry, ethical chocolate, organic (or home-grown) flowers, and digital playlists instead of packaged CDs. If you must wrap your gift, consider planet-friendly options.” (from Sierra Club)

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of holidays

Gung Hay Fat Choy! Happy Chinese New Year!

This is the Year of the Ox. You can join the festivities with our Lucky Money Eco-Craft. All you need to get started is:

Red recycled construction paper
Nontoxic markers or soybean crayons
Scissors
Nontoxic glue
Ruler

Don’t forget to read how Maylee celebrates Chinese New Year in her column, Maylee’s Moment. Her class always throws a party in their classroom. What do you do for Chinese New Year?

Enjoy!

–Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of Chinese New Year

This morning I woke up with a sense of hope. Today is the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States. The first African-American President of the United States. I get chills just writing this. I called my Mom to say good morning and see how she was going to spend the inauguration. She said that she already started. For breakfast, her and my dad ate cereal with milk and blueberries and strawberries. This was her way to show her patriotism: red, white and blue breakfast.

Today, millions and millions of people all across the world are tuning in to the historic ceremony. My mom is DVRing it. I am watching on my computer at work. My boyfriend is listening on the radio. My friends are in DC trying to inch their way up to catch a glimpse of the action. Where are you watching?

Take some time today to reflect with your family.

Tonight? It’s all about the Green Ball.

According to the ball’s organizers, every facet of the Green Ball was designed to minimize environmental impact. Among the various green elements of the ball Treehugger reports:

1. The Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium was selected as the venue for this event because it is conveniently located just a half a block from Metro and guests were encouraged to take advantage of public transportation

2. Buffets included organic and local ingredients with vegetarian and vegan options

3. The bars served local and organic beverages and all bottles were recycled

4. All of the food waste from The Green Ball was composted at a local farm

5. Staff and VIPs were transported to the Ball in electric cars

6. All ticket sales were handled on-line to eliminate paper waste

7. The power used to produce the event was offset by the purchase of Renewable Energy Credits from American Wind, Renewable Choice Energy’s signature portfolio

8. Our own Graham Hill said he was impressed that guests did not receive gift bags, which often create unnecessary waste

Well I may not be celebrating with Wyclef Jean or Al Gore, but that fact that there even is a green ball puts a smile on my face!

–Stephanie Singer, KIWI staff and lover of families

Black History Month is a time to acknowledge the many African Americans who have made valuable contributions to our country. This year is exceptionally significant: February 12 marks the 100th anniversary of the NAACP, and an inaugural ball on January 20 will commemorate the election of Barack Obama as the first African American president of the United States.

This February, make an effort with your family to learn about groundbreaking African Americans. Check out a book from your local library, such as Follow the Drinking Gourd, by Jeanette Winter (preschool-grade 2); Journey to Freedom: A Story of the Underground Railroad, by Courtni C. Wright (grades 3-5); or a classic like Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin for older readers. Visit KIWI’s Bookworms Book Club for more of our favorite Black History Month reads and reviews. Taking time with your kids to reflect upon the victories and sacrifices of others can lead to greater global unity.

–Marygrace Stergakos, KIWI intern and avid book collector

January 19 is the day this year that we celebrate the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.;  a man who changed the world. Who knows where we would be without this hero who put his life on the line so that people would  “not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character”?

I wonder if Dr. King’s parents, while he was growing up, ever realized how great their son would be. What did Alberta and Martin Luther King, Sr. do to create such an incredible child? What values, what inspiration did they give him? Did they know that he would improve the lives of countless people and change the face of our world? Did Barack Obama’s mother know as she held her beautiful baby in her arms that he would someday become President; that the hope of a nation would rest on her angel’s shoulders? Do any of us know what greatness lies in our children?

As parents, we all think our children are special. We love them with a biased heart.  However, the lesson of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama is that our children truly are the future of the world. This realization makes our job even more critical—raising our children with a social and environmental conscious can actually make a difference.

Let’s take these next few amazing days, the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the inauguration of Barack Obama as President of the United States, to see that the potential is there for our children to make the world a better place. We are raising the next scientists, politicians, philanthropists, explorers, nutrition experts, artists, computer geniuses and more.

So, as you kiss your children goodnight on the 19th, on this crossover between two historical days, feel the power that is yours and theirs.  Infused with love and wrapped in your commitment, anything is possible.

—Maxine Wolf, CEO & Publisher, KIWI Magazine

To some, the downturn in the economy is seen as a barrier to celebrating green. To us, it’s an opportunity.

We admit that we’re a couple of glass half-full-ers, but we think that if you’re concerned about your bills and how-in-the-heck you’re going to plan an eco-considerate party for your soon-to-be eight-year old, it’s the perfect time to try frugality on for size. After all, your great grandmother probably did it and so did her friends. And the truth is, living simply is at the core of “going green.”

Whether the upcoming celebration is Valentine’s Day or a birthday, this year, instead of doing what you’ve always done, why not try to stage it without spending a penny? Or replace gifts with activities? Or let your true love know you long for a poem he’s written himself?

You may just find that hard times give rise to great times.

– Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson are mother and daughter and co-authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family, available at www.CelebrateGreen.NET

Welcome to 2-0-0-9!! We wish all of our readers a very happy and healthy new year! Be sure to check out the “green” ball this year!

“The new Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball is a 12 foot geodesic sphere, double the size of previous Balls, and weighs 11,875 pounds. Covered in 2,668 Waterford Crystals and powered by 32,256 Philips Luxeon Rebel LEDS, the new Ball is capable of creating a palette of more than 16 million vibrant colors and billions of patterns producing a spectacular kaleidoscope effect atop One Times Square.” (http://www.timessquarenyc.org/nye/nye_ball.html)

–Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Don’t miss your chance to win DVDs this holiday season. Leave us a comment and you could own one of the follow classics from Warner Brothers: Classic Christmas Favorites including It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and A Charlie Brown Christmas, Looney Tunes Spotlight Collection, Jack Frost, Peanuts Deluxe Holiday Collection: Dr. Suess’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Frosty’s Winter Wonderland, and more! (These DVDs are also in stores now.)

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Wrap your gifts in the next best thing to love—not paper, but fabric wraps that can be used over and over again. Think origami using material instead of paper. Make your own with fabric scraps, silk scarves, even napkins. You no longer need tape or ribbon. The techniques are so simple, any child who can tie a knot can do them, yet the results are beautiful and sophisticated.

Download and learn the simple techniques from www.Furoshiki.com. No material at hand? You can purchase fabric made just for this purpose. Looking for something sophisticated? Check out www.Bobowrap.com. Genuine traditional patterns? Try www.Buy4AsianLife.com.

–Lynn and Corey Colwell, mother-daughter duo and co-authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family, available at www.CelebrateGreen.net

This season, you can give a gift that has deeper meaning. Whether you want to save the planet or support a cause that has special meaning to you; a donation of any amount makes a BIG difference.

Here are some of our favorites:

Carbonfund.org is leading the fight against global climate change, making it easy and affordable for any individual, business or organization to eliminate their climate impact and hastening the transformation to a clean energy future.

Oceana is protecting the world’s oceans and seeks to make our oceans as rich, healthy and abundant as they were in our grandparents’ youth. Plus you can adopt-a-creature and take home the whole fuzzy ocean family!

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Unsure about what to give teachers, babysitters and friends for the holidays? Say it with soy! In very little time you can create eco-friendly and recyclable candles that will spice up a room. And you’ll literally be giving the gift of light. We have helpful hints and instructions. To get started click here.

Feeling even more eco-crafty?

KIWI’s got your back. Our eco-crafts page will keep your family busy. http://www.kiwimagonline.com/ecocrafts/index.php

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Thinking about helping a friend or teacher go green? Try this! Green Irene Green Gift Bags. They are filled with selected eco-friendly home products like toxic-free cleaners, stainless steel water bottles, energy-saving light bulbs, low-flow shower heads, soy candles and more. Their assortment of 9 Green Gift Bags are practical, green gifts, perfect for family, friends, party hosts and teachers. Each gift bag comes “wrapped” in a reusable nylon bag and can include a personal message. Green Irene Green Gift Bags range from $30-$285 and can be purchased at HaveAGreenHoliday.com.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Wanna be an apparel designer for a day?

At mom-owned company The Happy Tomato, you “Grow Your Own” design when you select one of their retro-cool hand-carved block designs–and put it on anything from a Fair Trade Playdress, to an Organic Happy T, to a Motherlode Shopping Tote. Each design is hand-printed to the fabric color of your choice in super-soft, non-toxic inks which are planet and skin-friendly. The combinations are endless! (Really, what’s more festive than oh-so-many choices?) You can upgrade any piece to an “Extra-Fancy” Grade Tomato with hand-sewn embellishment and/or embroidery, and best of all?–it’s 100% washable, dryable art that is totally custom, totally clever, functional and frugal. Enjoy some creative spending at The Happy Tomato! www.happytomatokids.com

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My dad loves two things: when the family comes together and good food. I know he’ll love a gift certificate to our favorite local restaurant that serves organic and sustainable foods.

A great gift idea is what I like to call “an experience gift.” Give a gift certificate to a local restaurants that supports local farmers and serves organically grown foods. Your family will thank you later when you are sitting around the table in a beautiful restaurant that looks nothing like your kitchen.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

We are all trying to raise our families the natural and organic way. Sometimes, we need a little inspiration to keep us going.

My cousins Liz and David have three kids ages 10 to 16. They try to buy organic foods and cooks most of their meals. Their family is constantly trying to find a good balance between juggling everyone’s schedules. A year subscription to KIWI Magazine will definitely spice up their eco-ability!

With the buy one, gift one offer KIWI is running for the holidays, I can also get a subscription for my best friend Nikki (her daughter Julie can thank me later).

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

If your child has food allergies, or special dietary needs, you can still visit friends and family and share the joy of the holiday season. But when food is involved (and when isn’t it?) it’s always best to come prepared. So here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Call ahead to explain your child’s allergies and offer to bring a safe dish.

• Ask to serve your child first to make sure that the utensils and foods are not cross contaminated.

• Remind loved ones not to fuss over what your child is eating. He or she wants to be part of the crowd and not singled out because of his differences.

• If the host seems not to “get it”, feed your child at home and bring dessert or a snack.

• Keep an eye out for candy dishes and nut bowls. If your child is very young, ask if they can be moved out of the little one’s reach.

• Desserts in particular are a common cause of allergic reactions as they are often cross contaminated with peanuts or nuts and most will contain some of the top nine allergens. So, make a special holiday dessert that your child will love and bring enough to share so that she feels part of the celebration.

–Gina Clowes is the Founder of AllergyMoms.com and author of One of the Gang: Nurturing the Souls of Children with Food Allergies

Yesterday my friend, Leigh, told me what she is buying her twin nephews for the holidays. “The perfect and fun gift for Matthew and Jacob to “Go Green!”

Deluxe Earth Kit For Kids

This earth friendly kit makes the perfect gift with the 16oz. BPA-Free Kids Go Green spill-proof water bottle by Camelbak, Kids Go Green 100% organic cotton t-shirt, Everything Kids Environment Book by Sheri Amsel, EarthKits seeded download card, Kids Go Green dog tag, Green at Heart wristband and a Kids Go Green recognition certificate. What kid wouldn’t love this kit!
$48 including shipping at earthkits.com

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Earthwise Kids gift sets from Nubius Organics make the perfect green gift! Each set includes a super-comfy organic t-shirt and eco-friendly book. All gift sets come wrapped and ready to give in our reusable jute bags (no wasteful wrapping). Sure to please any 2-6 year old.

Price: $32
Where to buy: nubiusorganics.com

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My neighbor just had a baby boy. Infants and their security blankets are like peanut butter and jelly…they go perfectly together. I found a soft security blanket with assorted tags adorning all four sides called Little Taggies Naturals. These blankets are made with 100% certified organically grown cotton fibers, pure silk ribbons and safe dyes. For $28.95, you can buy one too at taggies.com or your local specialty gift shop.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Music is such a great gift to give to anyone for the holidays! The Laurie Berkner Band invites your kids to blast off! Their newest release, Rocketship Run, has twenty-four tracks sure to make you and your kids singing and dancing. You can rock out with Laurie Berkner at musicspacekids.com and anywhere music is sold for $18.98.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My 12-year old beagle, Scooby Doo, is the cutest dog in the world! Doesn’t everyone think their pet is the cutest? I believe that Scooby is so cute because we feed her (yes my Scooby Doo is a girl) a healthy, natural diet.

She’ll be extra loving when she opens her present of Wellness Natural Treats. To find Wellness near you starting at $7.49, visit wellnesspetfood.com.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My cousin Sam is very curious and super savvy with technology. I found the perfect gift for him! With EyeClops BioniCam, you can see the world around you like you have never seen before. You can zoom up to 400x, take a picture and show your friends on the digital video screen. I can’t wait to see what Sam finds!

Available at all major retail stores such as Toys “R” Us, Wal-Mart, Target for $79.99

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Personalized books are such a great gift especially for toddlers. It adds a very personal touch. Frecklebox invites you to make the stories and artwork actually about the child you’re giving it to. It takes just seconds to create memories that last a lifetime.

Price: $19.95 (soft cover), $34.95 (hard cover)
Where to buy: frecklebox.com

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My mom cannot drink a hot beverage without sweetener. I have been trying to introduce her to fair trade organic honey for years. It’s the perfect addition for anyone’s warm cup of (fair trade organic) tea!

This year I think I can convert her with Wholesome Sweeteners. Their Fair Trade Organic Amber Honey is only $9.99 at Whole Foods Markets or a retailer near you. Even better, check their website for delicious recipes and other fun ways to use their products.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

I love buying baby clothes. When I was younger, I remember going shopping with my mom and my best friend. While my mom was busy looking for clothes, my bf and I pretended to shop for baby clothes. Now, my friends are having kids and I can actually buy clothes for real babies. My new favorite line is Organically Grown. It is affordable 100% pure organic cotton baby wear. How affordable? $22-$38 at Macy’s and Gottschalks!

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My 10 year old cousin Emily loves animals and nature. She wants to travel the world. Now she can see everything at home with Xeko. It’s the outrageously fun, new animal trading card game that’s driving kids wild. She’ll learn what a club-tailed cruiser is (and maybe teach me!)

Xeko Agents–Mission: China, the fourth Xeko adventure, has launched! Purchase for $24.99 at most Barnes & Noble stores and Amazon.com.

And don’t forget to enter the Mission Madagascar Sweepstakes!

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

When I was younger, my grandparents took my sister, brother and me to the boardwalk in Atlantic City. My brother somehow got separated from us. I remember running up and down the boardwalk screaming his name. Then after what felt like a billion hours, I heard an announcement over the loudspeaker for his family to pick him up at the lost and found. I started crying.

If only he was wearing a tee shirt from Child Safe Tee. For only $17.95 + flat rate shipping, you can customize your child’s tee so you don’t have to worry. Buy now at www.childsafetee.com.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My cousin, Maggie, loves The Earth Friends dolls. She takes Jayden everywhere she goes. I know she’ll be happy to receive another eco groovy doll to add to her entourage. They are handmade in California and inspire to learn to honor ourselves, each other and our planet. The best part is that all of the materials are either recycled or organic. For $64, you can get one for girls and boys at Whole Foods nationwide or theearthfriends.com.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

My partner’s adorable neice is 14 months old. She loves dolls and reading books. I found the perfect gift for her to begin going green the fun way. Idbids! Each eco-friendly starter kit contains: a 100% organic Egyptian cotton plush toy, organic cotton sack to wear, a storybook and field guide printed on recylcled paper with eco-friendly inks and online reward program. I know she is going to love this!

Visit www.idbids.com to purchase online for only $39.99.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

Thanksgiving is only a few days away. Instead of dreaming about turkey and cranberry sauce, most of us are already thinking about what to buy our families for the holidays. Don’t stress; KIWI is here to help. From now until December 25th, we will feature a gift-a-day. We invite you to share your favorite holiday buys by posting a comment below.

My partner, Mike, asked for a new car for the holidays. With fuel efficiency (and budget) in mind, I am going to buy him the H-racer 2.0 from Horizon Fuel Cell Techonolgies. They have a complete line of 10 clean energy science kits. You and your children can discover the automotive technologies of the future by building and driving a hydrogen fuel cell car.

H-racer 2.0 is a real-working future car is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. Purchase at www.horizonfuelcell.com for $119.

- Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of families

If you’re like many parents, you want your kids to enjoy Halloween, but you’re uneasy with the emphasis on candy.

Well, it doesn’t have to be that way. Over the last two years, we’ve discovered dozens and dozens of ways to enjoy Halloween without all the focus on loot. In fact, it’s not only possible, it’s becoming a trend! (And, we expect, one that’s here to stay.) Here are our five top ideas for celebrating a green Halloween. For the dozens more great ideas, check out www.GreenHalloween.org.

1. Focus on fun. Generally, when people think about Halloween, the first thing that comes to mind is candy. But it doesn’t have to be that way. How about planning a party with an emphasis on games that goblins of all ages are sure to enjoy. Dunking for apples is a classic—and hilarious to boot. You can also have your guests use non-toxic crayons to paint each other’s faces—with their eyes closed! Instead of trick-or-treating for candy, plan a Halloween scavenger hunt with your neighbors. Doing so at night with flashlights adds to the fun. Shakable flashlights makes the hunt eco-cool. Focusing on fun – rather than stuff is not only healthier and more earth-friendly, it makes for wonderful memories.

2. Choose treats you and your kids can enjoy. No, we’re not suggesting that you hand out candy that both of you can agree on. We’re encouraging you to choose from the many healthy and healthier goodies now on the market (with more being released every day), that are parent and kid approved. And with natural and healthy food and essentials stores popping up around the country like dandelions in the lawn (in a good way), finding treats like honey or agave sticks, fruit leathers, organic chocolate “bites” or all natural gum is a snap.

3. Consider treasures. “Treasures” are non-edible goodies that trick-or-treaters will love. Think they won’t? While we have yet to meet a child who would rather have conventional candy once he or she sees alternatives, we know your experience will speak louder than ours. So, this year, try putting your conventional candy choice in one bowl and in the other, a mix of the types of treasures we suggest such as polished stones, temporary tattoos or seed packets. (Why not check the extensive list at Green Halloween and allow your children be your guide as to what they think will be most popular?) Offer the kids a choice and see what happens.

4. Less is more. When we were kids, receiving one piece of candy at each home was the norm. Today, trick-or-treaters receive handfuls. Not only is this costly for this generation’s health and the health of the planet, giving out supersized quantities is expensive, too. This year, try giving just one of whatever you select. Or, allow the children to choose, “just one special (make a big deal of this part) treat.” You’ll be as amazed as we were to find that when it’s done with fun in mind, reducing actually encourages children’s excitement and gratitude.

5. Give yourself a treat and remember that you don’t have to do it all to make a big difference. New healthy and green steps will be more sustainable if you can find ways to enjoy the process and celebrate your baby steps. So, this year, consider starting where you are and with whatever choice or choices inspire your family most. Whether you make your own face paints, hold a party in a retirement home or carve (and eat) locally grown pumpkins, it’s really all about the “spirit” of going green. Celebrate what works for you!

Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson are mother and daughter and the authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Celebrations, Holidays and Traditions for the Whole Family, available at www.CelebrateGreen.NET. Pictures provided by ©2008 Holli Dunn.

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

On January 21, 2008 we acknowledge and celebrate the late great Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. King is recognized as being one of the main leaders of the American civil rights movement. Originally a Baptist minister, his interest in the growing epidemic of violence towards black Americans led him to become a civil rights activist early in his career. He led the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955 and helped found the Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, serving as its first president. All of his efforts led to the highly publicized 1963 March on Washington, where Dr. King delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech. In 1964, Dr. King became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end segregation and racial discrimination through civil disobedience and other non-violence means.

Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee. Martin Luther King Day was established as a national holiday in the United States in 1986.

To get involved in this important celebration, introduce your children to Dr. King through books featured in the Kiwi Bookworms Club such as Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and My Brother Martin: A Sister Remembers Growing Up with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. Additionally, there’s great resources on the web including FamilyEducation.com and or the Holiday Zone which even has the complete text of Dr. Kings famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

Also, there are many local activities that can be found online. For example, as a part of Philadelphia’s annual “Dr. King: A Day of Service” proceedings, I’ll participate in several commemorative events. As alumni of Penn State Abington I will be on campus helping to organize students who will volunteer at several organizations throughout the Montgomery, Bucks, and Philadelphia county areas, including The Attic and the William Way Community Center.

Also at Penn State Abington, is a one-man play written and performed by Michael Fosberg, called “Incognito.” The play addresses diversity and stereotyping and is scheduled on January 21 from noon to 1pm in room 108-109 Lares Building.

Later this evening I’ll attend the African American Museum in Philadelphia (701 Arch Street), where their Day of Service Tribute to Dr. King’s life and work will include music, dancing, a laser show, a community service project to aid the homeless and more. These activities are scheduled to run from 11am-5pm, for more information call (215) 574-0380, or visit www.aampmuseum.org.

I hope that you will take the time to honor this great man who has helped make our country a better place to live for all of us.

–Shaneka Holliday Dawsonia, Promotions and Special Events Manager, KIWI Magazine