The EcoChic

This was our first attempt at a video product review.  I think Big B had a lot of fun making it.  I had no idea how easy it would be to create a video with my digital camera and Windows Movie Maker. If only embedding it hadn’t taken me hours to figure out! But I did it, so enjoy! 

Product: Ecogear’s New Genus Backpack
Eco-aspects: PVC-free and Toxic-free materials used to make this backpack.  Made from a special material called Ecoweave.  I had no idea that most bags contain PVC in them.  Production of PVC releases dioxins (toxic chemicals) that are known to cause cancer, birth defects, and endocrine disorders.  A portion of all proceeds from the purchase of these bags will be donated to various organizations that help protect our environment.

My thoughts:  The material is very strong and the backpack could be useful for hiking, camping, biking, beach outings, a daddy diaper bag, kids school bag and so much more!  There are so many pockets on this bag, it’s great!  Two side pouches for water bottles.  An inner water-proof pocket for keys and identification.  MP3 pouch with port pocket for easy listening.  Ergo padding on shoulder straps, back and waist.  All around great bag…and eco-friendly!  What could be better?

For more information on Ecogear and their line of bags and backpacks visit www.ecogear-products.com.  Their bags retail starting at $39.99, not a bad price for this product and it’s versatility!

While celebrating Earth Day at Honeymoon Island last month I had the pleasure of meeting a wonderfully talented children’s author.  Michael Sterns is a local author of a set of children’s books, Kokopelli & The Butterfly and Kokopelli & The Island of Change.  Michael is a self-published author and is very passionate about his stories.  His passion is what made me want to read these stories. 

Kokopelli & The Butterfly by Michael Sterns

There are many messages in both stories including conflict management, acceptance, diversity, and care for the environment.  Kokopelli is a great role model and can teach children (and adults) many wonderful life lessons. 

Michael spent a great deal of time in the layout of the books so that families could enjoy these stories together.  Each book is large enough so that as you read the story you wrap yourselves around your children; whether you have one or more kids cuddled up on your lap.  He made a special point to alternate the illustrations on the pages so children can share the reading experience.  His books make family time a special time for everyone.

The stories are rather lengthy but as I read them to Big B he didn’t want me to put it down.  We normally spend 15-30 minutes each night reading before bed and even as we came closer and closer to bedtime he wanted to know what happened next.  We ended up turning the lights out a little late that night, but it was time well spent.

Another wonderful feature of these stories is that they are good for children of all ages.  The youngest members of your families will enjoy the illustrations and vibrant colors.  As your children get older they will enjoy listening to the flow of the stories, almost as if it were being sung to them as the words flow so nicely.  The older children in your family will enjoy being able to read the story with you.  Even as an adult I enjoyed reading the stories to Big B and seeing the excitement and joy on his face. 

If you would like to get your own copy of Michael’s books you can go to Grasshopper Dream Productions.  Be sure to use the following referral code at checkout: 1570.