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luxuriamusic

2.01.2008


mod*mom valentine giveaway :: 11 organic fair trade chocolate gifts $250

global exchange is dedicated to socially responsible products + they're introducing mod*mom readers to the importance of "fair trade" chocolate!
284,000 children toil in the ivory coast's cocoa fields under the worst forms of child labor. teaching kids the importance of fair trade chocolate starts them on a lifetime of socially + environmentally conscious consumerism.
all chocolate not certified as fair-trade chocolate probably contains beans harvested by slaves, according to the salvation army's anti-slavery unit.

1 grand prize chocolate lover's gift basket $55, 5 18-piece global exchange assortment boxes $18 + 5 dark chocolate mini bar valentine gift boxes $8

to enter to win an organic fair trade chocolate prize from global exchange, visit the global exchange fair trade online store, read all about their socially responsible products, then tell me in the 'comments' of this giveaway post,
"what are your favorite global exchange products + why is fair trade best?"
(include your email address or blog link, so i can notify you when you win)

before midnight on valentine's day, february 14



fair trade chocolate means it's not produced by the child slave trade

chocolate is the most popular treat used as a reward for kids, but most of us don't realize that every time we indulge our children with a chocolate, they could be supporting the enslavement of hundreds of thousands of abused children in west africa. the world's largest cocoa producers, the ivory coast + ghana, have been found guilty by the united nations + us congress of exporting cocoa made by enslaved children, but they're not complying with penalties + mandates to end slavery. slave produced cocoa is in most chocolates worldwide,
according to the salvation army's anti-slavery unit.
inspiration babytoolkit


by ~mod*mom~ at 1.2.08 ©

141 Comments:

I'm going right over there!!!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1/31/2008 4:27 PM  

This is a dream! I'll be right back too.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1/31/2008 4:46 PM  

I LOVE the fact that this company benefits small family farms. Too many communities and families are losing their farms. Too many products are going commercial. I love that this company really focuses on the small individual farms.

By Blogger Jenny, at 1/31/2008 5:15 PM  

i like the soapstone heart boxes but i really really like the chocolate!

By Blogger Miscellany Mom, at 1/31/2008 5:27 PM  

I love all things chocolate (esp. the Art Bars), but I like knowing that a portion of what I pay for it goes to benefit small family/cooperative farms. I also like knowing that no children were exploited in the process.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1/31/2008 5:34 PM  

Dark chocolate minis...yummy!
And sweat-shop free to boot!
Thanks!

By Blogger Denise, at 1/31/2008 6:03 PM  

I love all the cool coffee products that are offered in this site. I have bookmarked it for future use! I'd love to win, so please count me in! Thanks for the opportunity. Have a great Friday!

Jennifer :-)

By Blogger Jennifer, at 1/31/2008 6:08 PM  

I love the Floral Canvas Clutch Purse becuase it is so cool and the soft veggie toys because they are just adorable.
hanourse[at]gmail[dot]com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1/31/2008 6:09 PM  

I loved the Mr. Valentine Doll, he is so homely he's cute. Thank you for introducing this site. I like the fact that no child is exploited to make these products. I always feel guilty for shopping, but not anymore! I am going back there to do my Valentines shopping. Please enter me in your contest.

By Blogger sweetsue, at 1/31/2008 6:12 PM  

The SweetHeart Chocolate Trio is so sweet and delicious! Overall, I saw most of their products and I respect the vendor for promoting such a good cause. Many unique and cultural gifts are at the site and they are unique and meaningful just like the Etsy shops that many bloggers have on here. The shop is a great way to learn more about other cultures and what products they can produce by hand.

By Blogger Kierra, at 1/31/2008 6:15 PM  

Mmmm....chocolate!

I like the organic cotton veggie toys set. Their little faces are so serene and sweet.

eida26 at yahoo dot com

By Blogger a!, at 1/31/2008 6:54 PM  

My favorite Global Exchange product is the recycled messenger bag, because they're eye-catching and their sale helps disabled/disadvantaged women in Cambodia.

By Blogger Scarlett, at 1/31/2008 6:54 PM  

I like the crafts because they represent the countries and ensure that those unique crafts/trades which are often particular to a specific region will be preserved and passed on to the next generation. The product that caught my eye in particular is the Capiz & Coco Wind Chimes.

By Blogger Kristen M., at 1/31/2008 7:40 PM  

The Dagoba Hot Chocolate Looks really good hard to find hot chocolate with out corn syrup around here.


patman1770[at]yahoo[dot]com

By Blogger Unknown, at 1/31/2008 7:52 PM  

Whoa, chocolate! I'm in. :-) My favorite product was the amethyst flower necklace because one of my favorite colors is purple and the necklace has an elegance about it. Thank you for the chance to win!

author_erin(at)lycos(dot)com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1/31/2008 8:18 PM  

That's a lot of chocolate! I'm lovin' it.
I'd say that the Silver Filigree Necklace in garnet was my favorite product I saw, the necklace was beautiful and garnet is my birthstone.
I can't wait to see who wins this giveaway.
tzaddi_sister(at)yahoo(dot)com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 1/31/2008 8:24 PM  

I am a bag junkie - love the weekender leather luggage bag. What a great giveaway! I love that gift basket too.

By Blogger jenna, at 1/31/2008 9:37 PM  

One of my favourite products is the Organic Cotton Hoodie, because it looks so cozy and is something I'd use all the time (I'm a student, so although I like the ornaments and housewares they aren't the most practical choices for me right now). Also, all of the consumables - chocolate, tea, and coffee - are appealing (also because they're things I use), and the Beeswax Bodycare Gift Pack would be great for dry winter skin.

ikkinlala AT yahoo DOT ca

By Blogger ikkinlala, at 1/31/2008 10:10 PM  

i love the art bars b/c i love chocolate and love that it helps support the fine arts :)

By Blogger Jaime, at 1/31/2008 10:27 PM  

I love the Happy Feet Pumice Stone with Oil, because I love pampering my feet. Thanks for the giveaway :)

By Blogger HilLesha O'Nan, at 1/31/2008 11:17 PM  

I love some of the toys. The worry dolls, the cotton vegetables, and the crocheted friends. Fair trade is best because it helps to improve the economies of poor countries. Thanks.

lucycontest at gmail.com

By Blogger Lucy, at 2/01/2008 6:09 AM  

I love just about everything on the site! The finger puppets are super cute. I also love the square bamboo salad bowl set, it is beautiful. I am so happy that more and more items are available through fair trade, the exploitation of people, especially children, must be stopped!
amygay@gmail.com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 6:33 AM  

I like the product recycled messenger bag, they're eye-catching and sale helps disabled/disadvantaged women in Cambodia.

please enter me thanks

By Blogger Amanda, at 2/01/2008 6:45 AM  

I always buy Fair Trade coffee, on this website I love Mr. Valentine, he is a cutie. I'm always up for chocolate, especially Fair Trade made. Good for everyone.

superfizz(at)bust(dot)com.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 7:30 AM  

They are my favorite site for gift buying...The choc. is fab!

By Blogger Happy Willow, at 2/01/2008 7:56 AM  

mod*mom-

You've just given me & my family the best Valentine present ever by publicizing the issues of chocolate slavery and the solution offered in Fair Trade!

Thank you. Happy Valentine's!

-adrienne, Jim, and Ranger from BT

By Blogger adrienne, at 2/01/2008 7:59 AM  

I'm a big fan of the fair trade coffee--it's delicious, organic and you get the satisfaction of knowing the farmer received a fair price for it. What's not to love?

By Blogger Mer, at 2/01/2008 8:04 AM  

I've been shopping for jewelry on Fair Trade for a while now. The Glass Bead earrings are my new favorite. Forums such as this are great for making us aware of the problems that go on outside our limited scope of the world.

By Blogger Becca, at 2/01/2008 9:24 AM  

the chocolate in the picture looks pretty delish.....

By Blogger BrAeSoN'sMaMa, at 2/01/2008 9:56 AM  

Really like the hand stitched quilts and the beautiful capriz and coco windchimes. I volunteer with The Lower East Side Girls Club and the girls have been selling their 3 Blessings organic fair trade chocolate bars with the slogan that it's "Chocolate That's Changing The World!" It's true and I hope more people will become aware of fair trade products.

By Blogger Melanie Martinez, at 2/01/2008 9:57 AM  

There are so many amazing things to choose from it's really hard to pick. I have to say I really fell for the Handpainted Tunisian Pottery and the gift baskets would really make some gorgeous gifts. Not only are the products nice with great prices but I am sold on the fact it works to provide low-income artisans and farmers with a living wage for their work around the world.

By Blogger Marilyn B, at 2/01/2008 10:15 AM  

I love the fair trade jewelry section. I especially love the Sterling Silver & Paua Shell Turtle Earrings.

Fair trade is definately important to the world. I can't stand to think that someone was not given what they deserve for products they've created but yet someone else would be making a fortune off of resale. This is also why when we go to pick out our wedding bands, I will be demanding conflict-free diamonds. I do not want blood diamonds. I don't care if they're $1,000 cheaper.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 11:05 AM  

I love that they carry the Fair Trade sports balls there. They're such a great way to get kids aware of where the products they use come from.

It's time people start to realize that their everyday Walmart low prices don't come via ethical means. Someone always pays. The increasing awareness of fair trade options is one of the best trends of the '00s so far.

Great giveaway, mod*mom!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 11:07 AM  

Thanks for the info...

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 11:09 AM  

like the Beeswax Bodycare Gift Pack, and the Valentines Day Gift baskets. Such lovely products and so important to support a company that is socially aware of the problem such as child labour...way to go modmom for sharing with us this company..I might purchase something.
Stephanie
stephmd222@hotmail.com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 11:10 AM  

I love the fact that fair trade insist on paying fair local wages! As to what I love at that store? The Organic Cotton Veggie Toys set is so darn cute! :)

By Blogger kevnjacks, at 2/01/2008 11:19 AM  

What a great store! It is so nice to know that when you buy something from them whoever it is that made it is getting their fare wage. What a great idea--we could definitely use more stores like this one! I also love the Tunisian Pottery--beautiful!
spencergirl at gmail dot com

By Blogger Spencer Family, at 2/01/2008 11:43 AM  

I love the reusable flat ware set! I am tired of eating lunch with plasticware. I love fair trade is it contributes to our world becoming a sustainable one for all.

By Blogger phxbne, at 2/01/2008 12:29 PM  

I love the fair trade tea sets! Fair trade is best because it benefits the community where it comes from instead of only us consumers.

By Blogger Tarasview, at 2/01/2008 1:05 PM  

I *love* Dagoba Hot Chocolate! We buy it pretty frequently.

Fair trade is pretty obviously better as it means those who put their backbone into the products we use are actually being compensated. It improved the living conditions of those involved and also of entire communities(more money goes in, so more money can be spent).

By Blogger Unknown, at 2/01/2008 1:15 PM  

My husband and I always drink fair-trade coffee..and they even carry our favorite brand, Peace Coffee. We choose it because it is organic and because they use ecologically sustainable methods. Something very important in this day in age.

By Blogger PS, at 2/01/2008 1:26 PM  

I love the Art Bars -I like that they give exposure to artists and are Fair Trade chocolate. I appreciate Fair Trade because I like knowing that the people who made my goods are getting paid a fair wage for their services and that I'm not putting kids to work to produce my luxury items.

By Blogger Jennifer McNichols, at 2/01/2008 1:27 PM  

I love their body care stuff- I hate too put all sorts of harsh chemicals onto my bode!

By Blogger Bree, at 2/01/2008 1:29 PM  

What a fabulous contest. I love many of the kitchen items! Fair Trade is such a great concept. It does away with the awful sweat shop practices! Thanks,Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

By Blogger windycindy, at 2/01/2008 1:51 PM  

The chocolate has always been my favorite product. I love that it pays a fair wage and doesn't rely on sweeatshop or child labor.
frontzfamily at gmail dot com

By Blogger Annette, at 2/01/2008 2:01 PM  

Fair trade is best because it makes a more humane, more environmentally friendly product.

My favorites are the art bars and the yerba mate book. I keep reading about yerba mate tea -it's the latest buzz word in antioxidants, so I am anxious to try it out.

By Blogger Julie, at 2/01/2008 2:35 PM  

*olivewood salad hands
*hand puppets from brazil
*jungle animal bibs
There's so much great stuff on that site!

By Blogger Jet'set, at 2/01/2008 2:47 PM  

I love the jumbo heart candle.

Fair trade is best because it doesn't send profits to those who engage in child labor practices!

kelli (at) pfrog (dot) net

By Blogger Maude Lynn, at 2/01/2008 2:49 PM  

This is wonderful. Fair trade ensures a "fair" wage to those making the product, and prevents unkind and inhumane working conditions for both adults and children.

These candies look wonderful -- the dark chocolates and the cocoa are my favorite.
jeanie
jfr9@columbia.edu

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 3:05 PM  

Safe and healthy working conditions are important as well! Injury on the job may mean that there would be no way to support your family. I like the wooden choo choo's
jbubolz-miller@hotmail.com

By Blogger Unknown, at 2/01/2008 3:06 PM  

I love the fair trade tea sets becauce Fair trade is the best when it comes to benefiting the community where it comes from instead of only the consumers.

blogged ya:

http://laurawilliamsmusings.blogspot.com/2008/02/friday-edition-of-contests-galore.html

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 3:20 PM  

Wow! I love the Valentine's gift basket so much I'm ordering one as soon as I'm done with this comment! I love that it's fair trade - meaning the producer actualyl gets paid fairly, as opposed to middlemen..and that it's exploitation free. Bring on the chocolate!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 3:27 PM  

I love the jewelry over at global exchange! The best part is that you know you are getting a handmade, quality product and no lives have been harmed in any way through slavery, unfair wages, child labor, etc. Really makes you think twice about buying mass-produced items from your local big box store.
Jill (jillsuz@hotmail.com)

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 3:33 PM  

I love the fair trade chocolate the most, being a total chocoholic. After reading Baby Toolkit's post when it came out, I haven't been able to stomach anything other than fair trade chocolate-- my husband and sister stocked me up for Christmas! Child slavery makes me ill-- there's no "pleasure" in this guilty pleasure for me anymore if it's not fair trade...

By Blogger Diana (Ladybug Limited), at 2/01/2008 3:49 PM  

Love that these are handmade, quality products and that their is no child labor involved, etc. I really like the handbags and coin purses.

By Blogger Doreen, at 2/01/2008 5:02 PM  

ooo id love a chocolate gift box assortment. fair trade is best because we enjoy many products but they are not always made in the most humane conditions. by demanding that producers work under better conditions, we can make that a possibility.

By Blogger Mary512, at 2/01/2008 5:20 PM  

I like the silver heart drop earrings. Fair Trade is the only way I can be sure that the people making the products are getting an honest wage if they live in a poor country. I also like knowing that they work in humane conditions.

By Blogger Hélène, at 2/01/2008 5:57 PM  

Th coffee products are my favorite...and I supposrt fair trade because we do need to protect those that can't speak for themsleves...children who are forced to labor so young.
stbaisch AT yahoo DOT com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/01/2008 6:11 PM  

The Eco-Paper Photo Album looks really pretty -- so many of their things are! Fair trade is so important because it supports the quality of life of the people who are actually producing the goods instead of just padding the pockets of wealthy importers.

By Blogger Katie, at 2/01/2008 6:55 PM  

chocolate, yumm!!

By Blogger Hedi, at 2/01/2008 7:09 PM  

I haven't tried their products, but on this COLD evening, the Equal Exchange Hot Cocoa sounds good, so I would have to pick that as my current favorite. Fair trade products are great because they are making the choice to make a difference while doing business, so you can feel good about buying their products.

By Blogger Amy L, at 2/01/2008 7:11 PM  

I would love the chocolate! It's good to have fair trade so that kids in other countries can have a safe childhood.

By Blogger Becky, at 2/01/2008 7:24 PM  

I love the deepa tote bag. I also like the fact that the non-profit organization trains women and those less fortunate than us in India.

Thanks for the giveaway!

By Blogger Kellie H, at 2/01/2008 7:30 PM  

I'd have to say the chocolate is my favorite product, both because I love chocolate and because this has brought to my attention how terrible chocolate production can be. The best thing about fair trade and buying items from companies who run their business with that philosophy is that I'm not supporting those terrible conditions, and that I am supporting ethical business practices.

Thanks for having this giveaway! My email address is almostfey @ gmail.com

By Blogger Unknown, at 2/01/2008 8:12 PM  

I love chocolate and I'll post about this on Sunday.

By Blogger peppylady (Dora), at 2/01/2008 9:04 PM  

I honestly can't find a favorite product - that site is in my bookmarks now!

I love fairtrade products because:
a) The products are either beautiful, tasty, or so well done
b) They are made by someone who CARES about what they're doing because they do so to support a family or just themselves.
I love it!!

By Blogger Ames, at 2/01/2008 9:10 PM  

yummm... I love chocolate. The darker the better. The Dark minis look great! AND it is great that they are fair trade. If I want kids to make my sweets, i'll make my own kids do it... (just kidding, kind of :) )

By Blogger Laura M.- Editor, at 2/01/2008 9:35 PM  

Mmmm...dark chocolate minis! All of the dark chocolate looks great but I really like the yo-yo baby dolls. Fair trade is wonderful. It is so important for people to be valued and paid a fair wage. Also, children need to be children!

By Blogger Mags, at 2/02/2008 4:20 AM  

I don't know that I can pick a favorite product. I like the variety and I am a one stop shop kind of gal, so I can see myself coming here and finding the best gifts for several people on my list (and for myself). The chocolates look yummy and I had no idea the conditions that were going on....

I like the FT criteria, particularly that there is public accountability and healthy and safe working conditions.

By Blogger Melissa Markham, at 2/02/2008 4:34 AM  

I love the idea of the Valentine's Fair Trade Action kits. Fair Trade is best because it supports more eco and human-friendly business practices. A win-win!

sanna1999(at)verizon(dot)net

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/02/2008 4:36 AM  

As a parent of small children, it's hard to understand why anyone would want to exploit the most helpless among them. Fair Trade not only supports humane practices, but creates awareness of the inhumane culture of slave-labor produced items. This particular company is especially high-minded as their products are shipped using re-used and recycled materials. Chocolate is a wonderful treat, but Fair-Trade chocolate comes truly guilt-free!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/02/2008 5:47 AM  

We only use fair trade coffee...glad to know there are many other products available that will help prevent exploitation of powerless people!

poovey1@charter.net

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/02/2008 6:05 AM  

I love the Retro Crocheted Friends, especially the monkey! FT is important to me because it means that parents are able to provide for their children by engaging in meaningful work that does not demean or diminish them.

By Blogger Holly, at 2/02/2008 6:22 AM  

I love the handknitted hats, gloves, and scarves. Fair trade is best because it ensures humane working conditions.
ksk103@hotmail.com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/02/2008 6:51 AM  

The Jungle Animals Quilt is very beautiful, I like all of the bright colors!

Fair Trade is so important bc any form of slavery is wrong. Taking little children and even adults and forcing them to work in factories that take advantage of them is not cool. I've always believed in following the Golden Rule and that applies to foreign countries that are providing us a service as well.

By Blogger Alexia, at 2/02/2008 6:57 AM  

I love those cotton veges for my 6-month old, I think I'm getting those for her for Easter!

By Blogger CecilyT, at 2/02/2008 10:12 AM  

Fair trade ensures profits get into the hands of the hard-working farmers themselves. I think we'd really enjoy the fair trade coffees they sell! ( meg.wilson@gmail.com )

By Blogger megret7, at 2/02/2008 10:56 AM  

I love the wonderful gift baskets, and the world music section I love music, I also love the fact that fair trade supports the little man, so to speak.

By Blogger fyjules, at 2/02/2008 11:00 AM  

finger puppets would be perfect for my girls, I think fair trade is great because makes sure that people are paid fairly for the work they do instead of taking advantage of people who are desperate

By Blogger noreen, at 2/02/2008 11:06 AM  

I really like the jewelry--esp the Garnet & Pearl Necklace & Earrings. And the music, and some of the dolls! I try to buy fair trade to support individual artisans/farms, instead of huge corporations!

By Blogger Genevieve P, at 2/02/2008 2:18 PM  

WOW! THanks for raising awareness for Fair Trade practices---so much emphasis is on organic, but most of us are unaware of the impact we have when we choose products that use slave labor. I'm looking forward to trying global exhange chocolates!
donna (donnasp@pacbell.net)

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/02/2008 3:26 PM  

Thanks for having this wonderful awareness raising giveaway! I love so many of the products at Global Exchange but my favorites are the Square Bamboo Salad Bowl Set, Hemp Messenger Bag and Dagoba ChocoDrops. I think fair trade is great because it insures that the workers are paid globally fair amounts of money for their products and helps provide resources in their communities. It helps reduce child labor and promotes enironmentally better way to produce products.
lisalmg (at) ktis (dot) net

By Blogger Lisa Garner, at 2/02/2008 4:08 PM  

I drink fair trade coffee everyday so I would have to say that coffee is my favorite fair trade product. (Only because I have never had fair trade chocolate!) What I like best about fair trade is the fact that everyone is treated fairly. Children are not over worked and farmers are guaranteed minimum wage. This is important to me because I like to think that I am eco-friendly. I want everyone to feel as though what they do matters and that they are paid/treated accordingly!

THANKS for the awesome giveaway!
royaldixie@charter.net

By Blogger Maggie Smith, at 2/02/2008 6:53 PM  

I purchase fair trade tea and chocolate because all human beings deserve to be paid a fair price for their products. I strive to be a socially responsible person, and by fair trade is one way to achieve this goal.As a former teacher, I believe in the need to teach social responsibility, dignity, and respect for all people. I taught my students about the ways they could achieve these goals. We learned about fair trade, as well as the importance of supporting local farmers and business owners by purchasing local products and produce from farm co-opts and farmers markets, and local stores.

Thanks for this oppourtunity to share,
Taryn Anderson
ammona@comcast.net

By Blogger Taryn_A, at 2/03/2008 8:19 AM  

I love fair trades great craft section, I love all the diversity they offer!

By Blogger Ginny, at 2/03/2008 9:06 AM  

It's all about the coffee for me! I'm a mom of 11 month old twins and it's important to me that they learn early about treating others with compassion and fairness. For me, this means showing them where the food comes from and who the people are that make it. They don't drink the coffee (it stunts your growth you know :o) but they will come to see that mama buys and uses the best stuff produced by happy people.

staceyrothrock at yahoo dot com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/03/2008 9:39 AM  

Oooo, love the coffee and the chocolate covered espresso beans. I like that fair trade allows children to have a childhood.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/03/2008 9:57 AM  

My faves are Art Bar milk chocolate and Beads of Beauty earrings!
Fair trade supports our world's children and fights abuse!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/03/2008 10:41 AM  

My little guy is really enjoying music these days--listening to it and making it. So I've got my eyes on the Peruvian Tinya Drum & Stick and the Guatemalan Maracas. I'm so glad to know there are more and more organizations that are making it their top priority to stop the worldwide slave trade, especially of children. Kids deserve to have a safe and memorable childhood. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
Whitney (wakeyes@yahoo.com)

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/03/2008 12:10 PM  

well, the chocolate is the best of course. They had several really beautiful pieces of jewelery too. I really liked their necklaces. I like fair trade because the right people profit off the products.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/03/2008 12:39 PM  

Since this is all about Chocolate it would seem right to say I am nuts over fair trade chocolate but to be honest I was not aware it was an issue. My bad..I know. But now that I know I am going to make it a point to be more aware of the chocolates I purchase. I am a big believer in only purchasing Fair Trade Coffee and Tea so they have traditionally been my favorite. I don't mind paying a higher price because I know that these people, who work hard to make a living for their families, are not being lost in the "big business" shuffle. To me, buying fair trade also means investing in the environment.

By Blogger Cricket, at 2/03/2008 1:33 PM  

I like the Pearl earrings from Nepal.

Kids shouldn't be put to work (except at home, of course). Thanks for bringing this to my attention.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/03/2008 6:23 PM  

i'm a coffee freak, so the fair trade cuban coffees are my faves. it feels good buying fair trade products, no matter what they are. you know that you aren't contributing to the pain of someone's life when you buy global exchange. thanks for putting my name in the hat!

By Blogger you da mom!, at 2/03/2008 8:40 PM  

I love the Mr. Valentine! I have to get that for my hubby. Fair trade is best because in buying the fair trade products we can know that we are not supporting the child slavery that all too often is going on behind the scenes within the chocolate production. We can buy knowing that we are instead supporting good and fair trade.

calgarygal@gmail.com

By Blogger Tania, at 2/03/2008 11:40 PM  

I like the toys and games they carry. We have a few and my daughter really likes them (she chews on her organic teething carrot with great fervor.)

My husband and I, on the other hand, would gladly chew on those chocolates!

By Blogger Kris, at 2/04/2008 7:40 AM  

I love so many of their products. The chocolate sounds fabulous, and their clothes and toys do, too. I love that they're helping support free trade and not slavery and other demoralizing conditions. Thanks and I posted about your giveaways on my site!

By Blogger Smellyann, at 2/04/2008 8:00 AM  

under the crafts, they had nice baskets and rugs. I like the fact that no children were abused for these products

tiramisu392 (at) yahoo.com

By Blogger bison61, at 2/04/2008 8:19 AM  

I love the coffee. I'm a huge supporter of fair trade products because I like the idea that children are not exploited.

By Blogger Brooke, at 2/04/2008 11:33 AM  

I really like the art bars. Ymmm, Chocolate!

By Blogger Sandy M, at 2/04/2008 3:33 PM  

I love organic products and fair trade makes it all the better. Of course, I LOVE dark chocolate too!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/04/2008 5:07 PM  

The crafts are awesome. Of course I love dark chocolate but it definitely takes the pleasure out of eating it when I know the dreadful circumstances of the children working with it.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/04/2008 5:18 PM  

I love the divine chocolate teddy bear. A cuddly bear for my daughter and yummy chocolates for me! Its very important to support fair trade on many levels but the fact that children have a childhood is #1 for me.

By Blogger Unknown, at 2/04/2008 7:46 PM  

I love the beeswax body care kit. Supporting fair trade is so important because it allows people to live the life they wish free of exploitation.

jeanne.krull@hotmail.com

By Blogger Jeanne, at 2/04/2008 7:52 PM  

we love fair trade coffee...our church switched over to use this for all its functions, it is a great way to ensure that the farmers get a fair wage...
mom2maria at hotmail dot com

By Blogger The Saunders Family, at 2/04/2008 8:08 PM  

I committed to fair trade toward the end of 2007 after Adrienne blogged about the involvement of child slavery in the chocolate industry. I was shocked and appalled, since chocolate is my primary food group! So for me, fair trade is best because I can have my chocolate without any guilt! I know that there was no child slavery involved, just some farmers who were paid an appropriate amount for the beans. And of course, my favorite Global Exchange products are their chocolates! I think I'll get one of their chocolate lover's baskets for my friend's birthday.

By Blogger Chief Family Officer, at 2/04/2008 8:31 PM  

The chocolates and coffees all look good! I'd like to try the Global Giving Coffee from Uganda, because part of the purchase price goes toward education for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS.

By Blogger Melissa, at 2/05/2008 8:36 AM  

The hot chocolate packaging is great and I love that they offer a kit on making your own chocolate from scratch. Fair trade will give people a chance to advance in life. I'm just realizing that sometimes the best chocolate prices doesn't always mean the best deal, especially if I look at who's involved in that delicious chocolate process. Thanks for raising MY awareness. Hopefully more people will understand and help make a difference.

By Blogger Chelsea, at 2/05/2008 10:10 AM  

Wow, the chocolate treats look really yummy. And I think the beeswax bodycare gift pack looks fun.

Fair trade is fair wages.

taureau AT yahoo DOT com

By Blogger melonkelli, at 2/05/2008 4:50 PM  

I like the ECO chocolate valentine.

And chocolate tastes better when the people who made it earned a living wage and worked in decent conditions!

By Blogger art-sweet, at 2/05/2008 6:22 PM  

In the Netherlands we have a fairtrade anti-slavery chocolate brand called Tony Chocolonely, it's good to hear there's more and more brands becoming fairtrade!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/06/2008 12:54 AM  

I love the heart earrings. Yeah for fair trade!

By Blogger Jules, at 2/06/2008 9:17 AM  

All the things for kids and babies are adorable, but I had to get the storytime puppets. Too cute!

It's a good feeling knowing that no children were exploited for consumers to enjoy these products. Free trade is great.

ouchgirl AT gmail DOT com.

By Blogger Anja, at 2/06/2008 10:42 AM  

*WOW* I had absolutely *NO* idea that people who work so that we can have something like *chocolate* were being exploited. I'm really stunned. I guess my eyes are open now.

My favorite product on the site is the Yachana Jungle Munch in the Banana Leaf Gift Box. I would explain why but it seems so unimportant now that I've watched the video and looked around the site to learn about what fair trade truly means. Thank you for teaching me something. I sincerely, sincerely mean that.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/06/2008 10:12 PM  

Wow the things you learn. I am in shock.

I am all about the children's books. Reading is so very important and I encourage my girls to read and read to them all the time. It is one of those things I don't deny them if they ask for one in the store. It is hard to find culturally diverse books in the local Wal Mart or Target though. I like to expose my girls to other cultures, their traditions, their food. Trying to give them something outside the box.

By Blogger Neen, at 2/07/2008 7:34 AM  

This is a really interesting giveaway! I am an avid tea drinker, so I have been hearing about fair-trade more and more lately, because similar working conditions take place in the harvesting of tea. Therefore, I would really be interested in trying some of the different fair-trade teas from this site also! I am glad that there are companies who are committed to the welfare of children & not the exploitation of them. It is so important to give every child a chance to be a kid!

By Blogger Teri, at 2/07/2008 1:03 PM  

Wow, could that chocolate look more tempting? My favorites: Matahari Sterling Hoop Earrings, Recycled Messenger Bag and, of course, the chocolate! There are a lot of wonderful products available and I love that the fair trade online store allows me to support individuals instead of big box stores. And it is so easy.

By Blogger Nicole, at 2/08/2008 6:42 AM  

Thanks for supporting fair trade! :D

By Blogger Latharia, at 2/09/2008 7:38 PM  

Chocolates and the Recycled messenger bag, as well as the Beeswax candles are all favorites of mine.

Fair trade products are the product of socially and economically responsible business practices, and they contribute to the improvement of living conditions for workers in many areas of the world.

By Blogger ~Leigh, at 2/09/2008 11:14 PM  

Anything chocolate...I love the Retro Crocheted Friends - so adorable. I love that they support family farms and are not exploiting child labor.

By Blogger heather, at 2/10/2008 1:15 AM  

I am learning a LOT from your blog! This is such a neat thing! AND I love Chocolate! I always try to buy food that will benefit..I shop at Wholefoods. THis is good to know THank you so vewry much!

By Blogger Pam Aries, at 2/10/2008 2:34 PM  

My favorite o the Global Exchange are the heart Chandelier earrinmgs! Fair Trade is best because it GIVES back! Buy something you love and HELP the people who made it at the same time.

By Blogger Pam Aries, at 2/10/2008 2:48 PM  

I like the cotton sweatshirt...I wish I had it on now. I also really like how the company uses family farms.

By Blogger Medley Family, at 2/10/2008 7:18 PM  

I'll be your valentine!

By Blogger barbara, at 2/10/2008 8:32 PM  

I love the Hmong textiles and also the Suvyapar Quilts and Pillows.

Fair trade is so important. People deserve a chance to support their families and kids deserve a childhood. Buying fair trade contributes to economic systems that don't take advantage of the work of talented individuals who just want to live a good life.

By Blogger Shama-Lama Mama, at 2/11/2008 11:44 AM  

ok. i hope i can be included even if i don't have a blog! (yet) i have a website though...does that count? ;) (amystanfield.com!)
i found the modmom site by chance online, and i'm thrilled- really fabulous info, and lots of things to ponder.
when i went to the global exchange site, i was thrilled! i love global products- i've always been influenced by my love of different cultures, and its a pleasure to fiind resources to support people in that way. i know it will be a great resource for me to find things i love in the future.
since i am an artist, i can really appreciate and understand how much it means for people to pay you what you're work is worth- its very satisfying, as well as meeting a practical need. we should be purposeful about what we do, especially when we have the opportunity to buy things that support artisans who would otherwise not have the opportunity to make a living. its amazing to me to see some of the beautiful things people come up with- i'm so floored by the skill level and creativity. amazing.
so...some of my faves.
*i love the silk mod scarf from india- amazing price too. (i have about 20 scarves, but i use them all!)
*handpainted tunisian pottery (and teapot)- this gets my blood boiling- so gorgeous, and our kitchen accents are turquoise.
*the chocolate assortments gift box- i have to admit...my husband and i are chocolate snobs. we love good chocolate, and are always searching for little shops and different bars from markets or such. this box looks amazing!
please excuse my lengthy post...all of this gets me excited!!!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/11/2008 6:28 PM  

I love: Unique jewelry, so I'm drooling over many of their jewelry items, mostly the Beaded Lariat and the Dragonfly Gemstone earrings.

Why Fair Trade is best: I hate the thought of children (or anyone, for that matter) having to work in a sweatshop...or the thought that my buying habits might go to support such a tragic practice.

By Blogger /\Heather/\, at 2/12/2008 6:59 PM  

My favorite Global Exchange product is the fair trade coffee. I make it a point to buy fair trade! Especially for products like chocolate, which are a luxury and not a necessity. It's important to vote with our dollars to make sure that we aren't contributing more than necessary to unfair work conditions.

By Blogger Liz BK, at 2/12/2008 9:37 PM  

I really like their bath and beauty section especially the Aromatherapy Gift Pack and dead sea salts

Fair Trade is best because it promotes environmentally sensitive products


jasonncaryn at yahoo dot com

By Blogger Rockin' Mama, at 2/12/2008 11:02 PM  

I love ALL the bags and wallets! I also think the coffee products well make great Christmas gifts!

Fair Trade is great because it shows us that we can have great, unique, and well made things without hurting others or the enviroment.

By Blogger Jenni, at 2/13/2008 7:37 AM  

I love that they sell clothing and shoes! It is so hard to find fair trade clothing that also looks cool.

By Blogger Esther, at 2/13/2008 7:57 AM  

My favourite Global Exchange products are the recycled products because not only are they helping the planet, they are so creative also! I love the recycled flip flop doormat, the recycled wallet and recycled plastic bracelets. Fair trade is best because it really gives people a chance to get themselves out of poverty in the fairest way. dizzydaisy2000 at hotmail.com

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/13/2008 2:51 PM  

love the hemp hand bag... and other bags. I've read that many designer bags and designer counterfeits are produced with child labor. Let's MOVE AWAY from that

By Blogger MMW, at 2/13/2008 4:04 PM  

I love the coffee. I've had it at Whole Foods and it's really good. You just feel like your doing something good by purchasing fair trade products. Good for you and the environment.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/13/2008 7:17 PM  

I love Fair Trade because, simply put it is fair. I love that people are guaranteed fair wages and working and living conditions.

The striped silk scarf is beautiful! There are so many things I like that it is hard to choose a favorite.

rynell dot lewis at gmail dot com

By Blogger Rynell, at 2/13/2008 8:20 PM  

POSTED THIS EARLIER...
love the hemp hand bag... and other bags. I've read that many designer bags and designer counterfeits are produced with child labor. Let's MOVE AWAY from that

BUT NOW include my email
mmwpickme at gmail dot com

By Blogger MMW, at 2/13/2008 11:56 PM  

I love any of the chocolate! I never had any clue about chocolate being harvested by children. Thanks for the education on this matter!

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/14/2008 7:21 AM  

I would love those toys for my baby boy, so I can teach him while giving him lasting and beautiful reminders of the importance of caring for all children in need, no matter how far away they are.

vanessa

nessaandmichael.blogspot.com

By Blogger NessaAnn, at 2/14/2008 8:34 AM  

Did someone somewhere mention chocolate?

By Blogger Christy, at 2/14/2008 9:15 AM  

I love that the artisan is getting a fair wage for their product. One of my favorites items is the organic cotton veggie toy set!

By Blogger Donna, at 2/14/2008 6:13 PM  

I had no idea, literally. I am a great lover of chocolate, but I didn't know that this was going on. I'd love to win chocolate, but even more, I'd like to withdraw my support of Nestle. That's just not right.

By Anonymous Anonymous, at 2/14/2008 7:48 PM  

Fair trade is great for supporting small farms... and I love all of the chocolate!

By Blogger Jess, at 2/14/2008 7:58 PM  

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