Organik News

Green Baby Registry

2011-02-24T11:22:00.000-08:00

My life has been filled with exciting news from so many. Spring wont just be bringing flowers this year, babies will be popping out everywhere as well. When I think of a newborn, I think of the soft skin, newborn smell, a body so pure and untouched. Never do I think, I cant wait to put harsh chemical all over that baby! Yet for every baby shower I have gone to, that is all that was given. I first blame this mostly on lack of education we as soon to be parents have about chemicals in products, then I blame the country we live in for not caring enough about human health to stop allowing these chemicals to be produced in so many of the items on the market, and last I blame the companies and big box stores who sell these items to make themselves become richer while we as humans become sicker.

So I'm sure most of you are asking, what should a baby registry look like with out harmful products? As I answer that question,please also notice the length of the list. Babies really don't need much, its the parents (who are raised in the US with the notion that more is better) that think all is needed.

Co-Sleeper

Bassinet

Organic Bassinet Mattress

3- Organic Cotton Bassinet Sheets

Natural Wood Crib

Organic Cotton Mattress

3 - Organic Cotton Crib Sheets

18-24 One Size Cloth Diapers

6 - Organic Cotton Gowns

2 - Organic Cotton Swaddle/Receiving Blankets

6 - Organic Cotton Onsies

2 - Organic Cotton Caps

4- Glass Bottles

2- Natural Rubber Pacifiers

Organic Cotton Pacifier Chain

2-3 Natural wood Teething Toys

and/or

Organic Cotton Teething Toys

Baby Wrap (newborn age)

Asian style Baby Carrier ( 6 months and up)

Car seat

Totseat (fabric high chair)

Jogging Stroller

As you look at the list Im sure many of you are wondering why certain things are missing or what several of the items are.

Cloth Diaper are making a huge come back for many good reasons. These are far from the old school cloth diapers your grandmother used. Todays cloth diapers look and and go on just like a disposable. They will save you on average $1800 a year and also you will have no worries of diaper rash. My favorite are Happy Heinys One Size

Glass Bottles are also coming back. With all the concerns with chemicals in plastics (even the ones marked no BPA) these bottles contain no harmful plasticizers and like most fear, Do not break. (or at least not easily)

I didn't put a travel system as for the most part are a huge waist of money. I say that for many reasons. They are bulky and hard to get in and out of the car and made of plastic which deteriorates over time and contains chemicals. Instead I have added two types of carriers (and please take note they are NOT Baby Bjorn) The first is a wrap. This is great for newborns to about 6 months. They are made of yards of soft flexible cotton and can be tied many ways. May favorite is the Moby Wrap. The second is an asian style carrier which is more structured for when baby gets a little bigger and a little heavier. My favorite is by Baby Hawk. Both these carriers can be easily stored, take up no room, keeps baby close to your skin (which anyone who has knowledge of attachment parenting knows its the best for baby and parent) and can be used as front carriers or back pack style carrying.

Totseat is a great invention. Its made of cloth and slips over just about any chair to make a high chair. It can be folded, washed and travels in your diaper bag.

The reason for a Jogging stroller is for long, outdoor strolling or exercising. (You wont get very far with a regular stroller).

Im sure there could be a few things added but these are the needs to get ready. No pack'n play, no high chair, NO BULK and NO PLASTIC! Trust me, more than half the stuff received on a traditional list either doesn't get used and/or contains harmful chemicals. So I just saved you money and your infants health. Yippy! :)

2010-03-06T12:04:00.000-08:00

ReSnack It!

Just in! These are fun reusable sandwich and snack bags. Made in the USA and are machine washable or wipe clean for fast re-use. Packing a lunch just got exciting!!

When Santa Turned Green

2009-11-27T13:38:00.000-08:00

This is a great holiday book that teaches children about the effect of global warming and what can be done to help heal our planet. The illustrations are whimsical and very pleasing to the eye. Purchase this great read as a gift on-line or in our Mystic store!

On-Line Store Grand Opening!!!

2009-11-24T10:25:00.001-08:00

We are celebrating the Grand Opening of our on-line store! We hope everyone enjoys shopping on our easy to view and use site as much as you love shopping in our Mystic store. Use code grnhol for free shipping until December 24!

Traveling with Kids

2009-07-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

Its summer time and everyone is off traveling. Weather its a day trip or week long vacation, there are many ways to travel light with kids.

Many vehicles today don't have much room for storage so why fill half the room with a stroller? Instead pack a Moby Wrap or Asian style carrier to tote your young one around. These carriers or ergonomically correct, very comfortable for both parent and child and very compact. Pictured to the left is a Baby Hawk Asian Style Carrier. This carrier holds up to 40 lbs or as long as you can comfortably carry them.

The Totseat is another great invention. No need to look around for a high chair at every restuarant or worry about where baby is going to sit to eat at a relatives house. This squashable, washable, highchair comes with its own small travel bag and can fit on any style chair to place child right up to the table.

Klean Kanteen stainless steal sippy cups and bottles are perfect for bringing liquids along. Stainless Steal doen't leach any harmful chemicals into your beverage like other materials. Pair your bottle with the Sippy Pal and your childs beverage will always stay close by. The Sippy Pal is a unique strap that attaches your bottle or toy to your car seat or anywhere else you would like to fasten it to.

Hand Blown Glass

2009-06-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Glistening in our window are an array of beautifully handcrafted blown glass globes. Each globe is uniquely different with its own colors and character. Part of the globe collection is the Tree of Enchantment collection. Each globe has a special meaning of Strength, Family, Life, Faith, love, Peace or Joy.

These globes along with several other pieces such as diffusers, bowls and vases come from Canada where the artist take pride in being earth conscience and use recycled glass whenever possible.

Any one of these work of art would make a perfect gift to anyone for any occasion!

New Bamboo and Organic Cotton Womens Clothing

2009-06-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of the bamboo grass. It is very soft and silky to the touch. Most of the new items we have just received are a combination of bamboo and organic cotton. Now you can look and feel great wearing these highly sustainable fabrics!

Fresh Baby Food Class

2009-05-14T12:46:00.000-07:00

We have teamed up with the Citrus Juice Bar Cafe to bring an exciting class on making your own healthy baby food. During the class we will discuss the benefits of creating baby food out of fresh organic ingredients. How to avoid obesity with healthy first diet options. Meals are easy and only take about 30 min a week. Each participant will receive the Fresh baby Cookbook with there registration fee. Please contact Citrus Juice Bar Cafe at 536.7007

EVENTS

2009-04-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

I have been filing up our event page with many events that we will be sponsoring and attending. On the calendar are Earth Day Celebrations, May Day activities, Parenting Expos and Grand Openings! Keep up to date with all the happenings at www.or-gan-ik.com

Race Day!

2009-04-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

Race Day came and went on April 11. We woke up early as we needed to be there by 8:30 am. It was cloudy out but overall not to bad. After getting our race numbers and picking up our shirts, which did I mention how awesome our logo looked on the back?, we followed the other 2oo + people to the start line. Don't you know the second we got there the skies opened up and rain poured down on us. The horn blew and we were off! It was at about 1.5 miles that my shoes were tossing out water with every step. The rain was not going to let up. But we did it! 3.5 miles soaked we crossed the finish line. YIPPY! Now I'm off to the next one. Not sure yet when and where that will be but hopefully it will be on a sunny day.

Day 4 of Training

2009-04-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

It was about a week ago I had thoughts of doing this race. Mentioning it to a close friend, his first response was a laugh, which was very much expected. Thinking he was going to talk me out of it, I was surprised by his next response, " you better hit the pavement". I think I hate him now. Haha.
It was about 7:30 am when I got my start this morning. More cars were out on the road this time. As I crossed the street glancing up to wave thank you, I couldn't believe what I saw. A middle aged woman with a cigarette hanging out of her mouth. WHAT! Wow it's 2009 people! Who still smokes? Completely shocked I started to look into the cars of the many that passed me and couldn't believe how many were doing just the same. Here I am thinking I am a very healthy young person struggling to run a race for a cure for children born with a heart condition and these people are actively trying to give themselves a heart condition.
Lets just hope my next day out I will see more people drinking water on there travels to work rather than a cancer stick! Lets also hope I will be less sore and able to jog much further!

Salem Road Race for a Cure

2009-03-28T05:13:00.000-07:00

On April 11 Organik will be sponsoring and I will be running the 5K Salem Road Race. Proceeds from this race will benefit the Children's Cardiomyopathy Foundation. You can visit http://www.salemctroadrace.org/ for more information. We will be taking donations at Organik.

Over the next few weeks I will be tracking my progress here. I have never entered a race or even ran any sort of distance before so I would love the support anyone has to offer. It should be an interesting few weeks.

Day 1

I woke up at 6 am, not on purpose but because my youngest decided it would be a great time to want breakfast. HA. Well Im up so on goes the sweats and sneaks. I have Lenny Kravits and Kid Rock to keep me company. Not sure if my play list from these artist were the best choice but it got me doing some much needed thinking. As I turning the corner at the end of my road I started a light jog. Thinking this wasn't so bad I picked up the speed a little. Yup, thats about when it quickly hit me that I'm completely out of breath and about to pass out. Oh yea and did I mention I am still only about 1/2 mile from where I started. After I caught my breath I decided to alternate jogging and walking just so I could get through my planned out loop. Once I reached the homestead still out of breath but excited to have reached the end, my husband was so nice to let me know that my loop was only about 1.5 miles. WHAT! And I have to run 3.5 miles in 2 weeks?! Oh boy! Not sure how I am going to do this!

Podcast on its way!

2009-03-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Soon there will be a podcast of Organik! Shooting began a few weeks ago and went very well. I am working with Kate Mercer of Kate Mercer Photography who is conducting the podcast. We had a wonderful time editing, fine tuning and adding music to the background. The clip will focus on the wedding side of Organik, showcasing examples of favors, registry items, and gifts. We will keep you posted to when the podcast will be released for viewing!

Spring Cleaning

2009-02-21T12:35:00.000-08:00

We are starting our spring cleaning at the store. Taking pride in using chemical free cleaners to scrub the floors, walls and displays. Charlies Soap is our best friend down here. I use the laundry powder at home on all my laundry and at the store we use the all purpose spray for general cleaning.
I have also started to gather many winter items to put on clearance to make room for the new spring and summer stuff. We are offering many great deals on these items. So hurry down here and scoop them up before its too late!
I have been having a lot of fun over the past few days putting together about 20 orders that I will be placing of many new fun green living items for the family and home! Some of the items placed will be new Haba toys for infants, Organic cotton T's for the whole family, Bamboo kitchenware, new cork kitchenware, many new repurposed jewelry, repurposed items for the home and so much more.

As of Feburary 10, 2009 U.S. Government bans major chemicals found in crib mattresses

2009-01-20T09:06:00.000-08:00

Everyday I educate the many people who I encounter on the importance of knowledge of the chemicals found in our everyday products. Unfortunately our government stands weak, still allowing such harsh, harmful chemicals to fill the personal space of our precious, vulnerable children. It is up to us as parents to keep these chemical clear away from our growing children.

Don't wait for an article like this before doing something about your child's surroundings!

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Bans Phthalates Found in Crib Mattresses and Baby Bedding By Barry A. Cik
On February 10, 2009, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) bans the manufacture of child care articles and toys containing phthalates (pronounced “thalates”). Phthalates are harmful plasticizer chemicals commonly found in crib mattresses and mattress pads.
It’s Time For a Healthy Mattress and Pad for Your Baby’s Crib Virtually every crib mattress in use today contains phthalates, a group of chemicals known to affect a child’s developing endocrine (hormonal) system, and which may cause asthma, allergies and even cancer. Phthalates are so toxic that they have already been banned in many countries of the world.
But America is not yet safe from phthalates in crib mattresses. For all states besides California, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) allows mattresses with phthalates to be manufactured up until February 10, 2009, and to continue to be sold indefinitely until inventory is depleted. This could take months, or even years.
Additionally, there is currently no plan to recall the millions of baby crib mattresses currently in use that contain these banned chemicals.

For the complete article and more info on healthy mattresses please visit www.or-gan-ik.com

How to Celebrate in a Eco-Friendly Way

2008-12-11T11:40:00.000-08:00

What would it be like if we all celebrated the holidays with an Eco twist? No matter what holiday or occasion you are planning on celebrating I ask that you take a few minutes to envision this picture....
Cards are sent, all made from post consumer paper, or better yet the growing ever so popular, ecards. Gifts are bought from local shops and carefully chosen for each receiver. Items selected are reusable drinking bottles, wood toys, hemp clothing and bamboo products. For the hard to shop for person, a fun functional repurposed gift. You wrap everything up in reusable gift bags and recycled paper.
Ingredients to comply your holiday feast are organic and wines are from a local vineyard. The table is set and all serving pieces are made from glass, stainless steel and bamboo.
Decorations were homemade with thought of bringing the outside in with found pine cones, berries and soy candles.
...Aaaahhhhh.. a whole holiday of healthy alternatives for you and the earth.Now lets do that everyday!

WBMW

2008-12-11T11:23:00.001-08:00

If you have been listening to the radio for all your Christmas music then you probably have been listening to 106.5 wbmw. On Friday December 19 listen to the morning show as I will be chatting it up with Glenn and Rebecca.

Haba Stocking Stuffers

2008-12-04T11:23:00.000-08:00

We just received a fun filled order of Haba stocking stuffers. Each small tin contains everything needed for hours of learning fun. We have many different games to choose from ages 4-97.

$7.00 - 13.00

The Enchanted Lotus

2008-11-21T10:34:00.001-08:00

On December 2 during the Mystic Stroll from 6-8pm we will have Melanie from The Enchanted Lotus displaying her all natural, hand crafted jewelry for you to purchase.

Melanie uses sterling silver to create many unique designs, adding a special touch to each piece. You can also find out the metaphysics of each stone used in her jewelry.

Take 15% off one item at Organik with a purchase from The Enchanted Lotus

Bananagrams- A gift for any age

2008-11-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

This is a fast selling and playing game! Several playing options makes it a great game for all ages. Take this game in its banana shaped bag anywhere. No game baord needed and you can play with little space like on a resturant table while waiting for your meal or on a hotel table while on vacation.

$15.00 each

Holiday Happenings

2008-11-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

The Holidays are already upon us which usually means time fast forwards giving us little time to remember why we even celebrate these special days. Family, togetherness and homemade are a few words that come to mind when I think of this time of year. We are so blesses to live in an area that provides so many wonderful events where you can enjoy the company of friends and family and take part in something that the community put together for those reasons. Here is a list of local holiday events my family and I love to attend. I hope you and your family are also able to gather to enjoy these special days.

November 29 - 2pm- Santa arrives by boat -Mystic
November 29 - 6pm- Tree lighting and lighted boat parade - Mystic
December 2 - 6pm - Downtown Mystic Stroll - Mystic
December 6 - All Day - Mystic Holiday Magic
Dember 12 - 4pm - Festival of Lights - Mystic Villiage
December 12 -5-8pm - Mystic Aquarium - bring a can good and get in free
December 14 - 6pm - Niantic Light Parade - Niantic
December 21 - 2 and 7pm - Coast Guard Acadame Holiday Concert - New London Coast Gaurd

A Word of Thought

2008-11-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

In most of my adult life I have spent a great deal of time listening and watching people and how they perceive life. Intrigued by how negative most are, I have vowed to become, not that person. I call myself a work in progress because I feel as we all make mistakes we have to remember to learn from them and not repeat them.

If every person thought positively and help those who didn't, where would we be? What would we accomplish? I know I have a goal and I am on my way to achieve it. I know that no person with negative energy will bring me down. If you are mean, you fear. If you slander, you are jealous. If you hurt others, you are disrespecting yourself.

Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude. Thomas Jefferson

News and Ads

2008-11-04T12:58:00.000-08:00

Check out our Ad in the November Issue of Grace Magazine found in The Day Paper

Also We will have an article published on November 26 in the Renew Yourself section of The Mystic River Press. In our article you will find helpful tips to Green your holidays!

Listen to us on WBMW 106.5 during the holiday season starting November 20. Catch all your favorite christmas tunes.

Repurposed Jewerly

2008-11-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

These are fun pendants crafted from scrabble pieces. Each one has a fun picture fused to the front of it and a sterling silver loop large enough to slide any of your favorite chains or ropes through.

$8.00 each

Moby Wrap

2008-11-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

We have just received an order of the most versatile baby carrier. This soft piece of fabric can be tied in many different positions making carrying your little one comfortable for you and them.

$45.00

Skoy Cloth is here!

2008-11-01T10:15:00.001-07:00

If you are like most people who read the Hartford Courant you would have seen a feature article on the Skoy Cloth in late August.

Created by two stay at home moms, these clothes take the place of 15 rolls of paper towel and are biodegradable and washable.

Purchase them in a four pack for $7.00 but hurry, they are going fast!

$7.00

Drink Safely

2008-11-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

We have all heard the hype about BPA in our plastic water bottles and health concerns from aluminum made products. Here is your alternative, the Klean Kanteen. Now you can drink safely with a bottle that looks great too!

We have always carried Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel drinking bottles, but now you can get these great bottles in many colors. Each one is powder coated so you wont have to worry about chips or scrapes. Available in five sizes including 40 oz, 27 oz, 18 oz, and 12 oz.

Don't forget about the accessories. We carry Klean Kanteens with sippy adaptors for the little ones as well as cozy's to fit all sizes in several colors.

2008-10-30T10:17:00.001-07:00

Keep warm in Hemp

2008-10-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

We have just brought in organic hemp sweaters, scarves and hats to help keep you warm on these cold days to come. We have already paired up matching sets of hats and scarves, unisex colors, perfect gift for anyone on your list!

If you haven't felt hemp fabric, I can only say this, aaaahhhh!!! Hemp, when mixed with other natural fiber is very soft and pliable and feels wonderful up against your skin.