Rubi J's Blog

...and let there be light.

2011-12-03T13:34:00.000-06:00

Just a short update on the progress of the Rubi J Store. This is the way the front looked since the 60's or 70's when it was converted into office space:

This is the inside of that wall after we removed the paneling:

Now after one week, look at what the contractors have done:

Notice I said contractors. No way were Ron and I going to attempt this! They're doing the drywall, also. We have done that once - an "okay" job, but it took us FOREVER to get it smooth.

We're very, very happy with the progress. It's starting to look like a store. Can't wait.

Sandy's Project (Part 2)

2011-11-22T16:17:00.000-06:00

Remember this project? Where this

turned into this:

Well, we have started on the main floor - the future home of Rubi J in downtown Harlan. This time, husband Ron is working with me. He recently retired and is at my disposal. (There's been a few raised eyebrows at that situation.) During our 46 year marriage, we have attempted to work together a few times. It got ugly.

But we were willing to try again. And guess what? It's working out great. No one's more surprised than me. Could it be we both have matured?

Our first objections were to remove the drywall and baseboards; then remove the plaster on the long wall down to the original bricks. Then clean and seal them. Here's where we were after the first few days:

We decided a pickup wasn't going to do the job, so we had a dumpster moved in to the back door. It was a very good decision.

For a week we came home covered in plaster dust and extremely tired. To clean the bricks, we used vinegar and water for the acid wash. It worked great and no chemical fumes. Perfect.

We finished the sealing last weekend and are taking a few days off. Here's what it looks like now.

That's the same wall as the previous picture.

Now it's on to painting the 14' high ceiling. Go Team Ronfeldt!!!

Changing of seasons.

2011-10-20T11:46:00.000-05:00

As some of you might already know, I love flower gardening. It ranks right below reading. In the spring, I'm possessed; cleaning out the beds, getting my hands dirtied and running to all the garden centers to grab my bounty.

Then, all summer long, I go to my havens. I love weeding, feeding and watering. You gardeners know the feelings. You love the nuturing, the satisfaction of the beauty you created; and the peace.

Then, around September, my motherly instinct turns to something else. My "children" are getting on my nerves - always wanting water, needing more Miracle Grow, begging to be weeded. Plus, they're just not so cute anymore.

So, two nights ago, we had our first major freeze. I knew what I should have done; but that involved blankets and making space in the garage. I pretended to be too busy. I decided to let Nature do my dirty work. Here's a little of the carnage:

First: The Gerber Daisies.

Then comes the Mexican Heather:

Then there is my herb garden:

And that's just on my deck.

(Burial services will be this weekend.)

Start walking!!!

2011-10-03T11:20:00.000-05:00

I love living here in Iowa. Both my husband and I were born and raised in the state; but couldn't wait to leave when we grew up.

Then, after living in Denver, Texas and Louisiana and adding a baby to our family, we decided to moved back to Iowa to raise her. We have never regretted that decision.

According to the 2010 Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index; Iowa is rated 19th in the nation for health. Our governor wants Iowa to be number one by 2016.

I agree. Health officials have declared today's children will not live as long as our generation. How sad. We have become victims of our environment.

But it's never too late. The governor's office has started a program for us to come together to change this trend. It's called the Healthiest State Initiative. The kick-off program starts this October 7, 2011.

As we all know, the hardest part of any project is to just start. We are starting with "Start Somewhere Walk". A simple 1K (7 blocks) walk. This is slated for the whole state. Our 2 local grocery stores are even suppling lunch. Thank you, HyVee and Fareway.

To learn more about this program, go to www.iowahealthieststate.com and take the pledge.

Once again, Iowa will be "first in the nation".

I've found out that I can hate!!!

2011-09-15T19:18:00.000-05:00

First things, first.

I'm a gentle soul.

I can find good in everything.

It's a blessing, our Father has given me.

But, I have learned. I do have the power to hate; a word I don't allow in our house; but now I feel it.

I hate cancer.

There's too much of it.

More than before.

Let's find the reason.

Let's find the answer.

It can't beat us if we are united.

We will win.

We will be victorious; (if we keep on fighting).

Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/noahpetersen1 to join the fight.

Thank you.

New oneies in stock!!!!

2011-09-07T13:57:00.000-05:00

We're making some changes at the Rubi J Store. I'm in the process of adding new colors to our onesies collection and discontinuing some others. There will be still three sizes to choose from and these are great for personalizing as well.

The Sunset Pink has been popular in the organic tees and it is now available in the baby bodysuit.

Our new blue is Sky Blue.

Our new green is Sage Green.

All are, of course, GOTS certified organic cotton.

We still have a few of the discontinued colors in stock at clearance prices. Check them out at http://www.rubij.com/CLEARANCE_c8.htm

It's nice to be noticed.

2011-08-26T15:02:00.000-05:00

I recently ran across this article on organic clothing. I was please to notice our website listed on it.
The article is quite interesting. I've been saying the same things.
Go to:

http://www.practicalenvironmentalist.com/eco-clothes/organic-childrens-clothing.htm

Getting back to my center.

2011-08-15T15:58:00.000-05:00

I'm usually a pretty laid back type of individual. Not many things upset or rile me. I also can be the blunt of many jokes. Ask my family. I've given them plenty of material. I usually laugh the loudest.

But, every once in a while, I allow disappointments to bother me. It's been one thing after another. Yikes, is the whole world against me??? Answer: "Probably not." Second answer: "So what if it is?"

I like both answers.

When I feel a little blue or overwhelmed, I turn to my Oracle Cards.

They never let me down.

One of my favorite authors and spiritual guides is Sonia Choquette. Man, she is one happy person. I would recommend any of her books. She also published Soul Lesson and Soul Purpose Oracle Cards. It's a 63-Card Deck with a guidebook. Just pick a card at randon and read the guidance. I always seem to pick the right one for my current mood.

These cards are also fun for a group. You can get them at most book stores or online.

I'm already back to my old lovable self.

Update on Lucy:

She's feeling great!!!!! Her left "false" eye looks better all the time. Amazing how she adjusted to seeing with just one day.

Back to School Sale!!!

2011-08-05T08:07:00.000-05:00

All short sleeved organic T-shirts currently on sale!

30% to 60% off!

This sale includes all plain tees in various colors; in sizes 2T to Youth Large.

Also included are Animal Tails short sleeved tees in sized 2 to 10 yrs.

Shop now at http://www.rubij.com.

Sandy's List: Vinegar

2011-08-02T15:37:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love vinegar? The best household item in the world. It's been in my laundry room forever. I've always add it to my rinse cycle to remove the last of the detergent.

Daughter Stef told me she add started using vinegar in the wash cycle. Well, I quickly told her how wrong that was. "It's suppose to go in the rinse cycle." Of course, she agreed with me. After all, I am her all knowing mother. I have since learned it can also be added to the wash cycle to help with the cleaning, deodorizing and static cling. I keep forgetting to tell her of my mistake. I know how she idolizes me.

Sorry, Stef.

I stop using fabric softeners and sheets years ago. I had read they sometimes were skin irritants. And, it did help with my rashes I sometimes suffer through. But now I know there are greater reasons to not use them. The chemicals.

Softeners and sheets are meant to cover your laundry to make them softer to the touch. Here's a list of the chemicals that are rubbing against your body:

Alpha-Terpineol
Benzyl Acetate
Benzyl Alcohol
Camphor
Chloroform
Ethyl Acetate
Limonene
Linalool
Pentane

"Google" these chemicals and find out for yourself what you and your children are absorbing.

My clothes are soft and don't have static cling. (Another tip: don't over dry.)

This is just one little step to remove chemicals from our bodies. Painless and a lot cheaper.

Writer's Block

2011-06-28T15:57:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't blogged in a long time. Didn't feel good. Now I'm feeling great, but I've discovered I have nothing to say, of any interest anyway. It might be "writer's block". If I was a true writer, I'm sure that's what I got.

I've been researching different subjects. For instance, I was going to explain all the differences of sweeteners, how each metabolize in the body and which one would be the most healthy. This was all going to make us wiser shoppers. After about two days of dedicated study and note taking; about the only bit of knowledge I gleaned was sucrose came from maple syrup, beets and sugar cane and frustose came from fruits, vegetables and honey.

Let's try something else.

I subscribe to several online medical news. One day I learned from a research study of over 120,000 people stretching over 25 years that potato chips can make you fat. The study didn't say it quite so bluntly, but the meaning was there. I'm going to pass on the details of the study. Why learn more about something we already know?

I could talk about my gallbladder surgery, but even I'm bored by it.

My dog, Lucy, had surgery also. Her left eye was removed and a prosthesis implanted. She is doing great, also.

I have the feeling some of our friends think we're nuts spending that kind of money on a mutt from the shelter. Yes, we are nuts, always have been. But, here's the thing. When we adopted Lucy, she became a member of our family - a valued member. If you're a dog person, you understand. If you're not a dog person; sorry, no amount of explaining could help you understand.

Now, who couldn't love a face like that?

Sticks and stones are nothing!

2011-05-26T18:53:00.000-05:00

We've all heard the expression: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me".

Oh, how I wish this was true. But, alas, words do hurt; and the wounds sometimes never heal.

How do I know this is true? Ask any adult about a physical trauma during their childhood and you will probably get a play by play on how they broke their arm in two places or how many stitches it took to close the hole in their head. Good stories, no doubt; even a few laughs. But notice, please; but emotional flashback.

But now, let's get to the subject of words that hurt. It's never laughed about; it still hurts. We don't talk about how we were humiliated in 5th grade by the most popular girl in the class; the shame is still with us. It doesn't even matter if that girl became an outstanding, caring adult; we never forget that moment. We can't let go. We've been damaged.

What I'm trying to say; words do matter, and people never forget emotions.

So, let's get to the positive side. People never forget kindness. Don't you want people to remember your kindness instead of the hurt.

They will feel good about you; and so will you. As Martha Stewart would say: "It's a good thing".

The cloud has lifted!!

2011-05-24T18:15:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone. Missed me? You haven't? Well, I'll tell you anyway.

Lucy (that's the pretty brown dog in the picture) and I have been on medical leave.

Me: gallbladder attack (have to get it out) and pneumonia. No biggie. Thousands a day.

Lucy: Glaucoma. This is so much more serious in dogs than us humans. We've been working with meds for the last 6 weeks. No go. Tomorrow, surgery to remove her left eye. When we adopted Lucy from the Shelter, we made the committment to be her best friend and take care of her. She is a VALUED member of our family and we will do everything to make her comfortable.

Wish us luck tomorrow and say a little prayer. Thanks.

Exposure overload.

2011-05-03T10:06:00.000-05:00

I just read a small article in the May 9, 2011, issue of Time about all the toxins and chemicals in our daily lifes.

It stated 27 trillion pounds are produced or imported into our country each year. The problem is, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics' Council on Environmental Health, there is very little research on what effect these have on our children.

The last law on regulating chemicals was in 1976. Wow. How our world has changed since then. The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) doesn't require any chemical manufacturer to pretest their products in regard to human health. So, if I'm reading this article correctly, the only concern of the manufacturer is to get the job done and make a profit. I'm all for effective products and making profits; and wait, let's be a little responsible.

It took independent studies to prove bisphenol A was causing long term health problems for our kids. This is after it had been and still is on the market and in our everyday lifes.

My greatest concern; there is so much exposure. It's everywhere.

A great website for educating yourself is the Environmental Health Perspectives. Great articles. Here's the link http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/home.action.

What's in your makeup?

2011-04-27T11:35:00.000-05:00

First things, first. I love, love, love makeup. I never leave home without it. Also, good skin care.

It's no surprise to learn the cosmetic industry is a multi-billion dollar business. That's because we all know we women are not "thin enough", "pretty enough". Good marketing.

But what are we putting on our faces and bodies? Sure, go ahead and read the ingredients. Unless you're a dermatologist or chemist, those words mean nothing; and there are so many of them, impossible to learn what's good or bad.

Last Christmas, our dear friend, Cea, gave daughter Stef and me a book called Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano. I highly recommend it. The section on cosmetics started us both on a tirade to rid ourselves and our family of toxins. I think they want to burn the book.

The cosmetic industry governs themselves. Not always the best idea when the dollars is the bottom line.

I could go on and on about what I have learned about the toxins we are rubbing into our skins, but I found a great website where you can go: http://www.safecosmetics.org/. No only is there a treasure trove of information, you can look up your cosmetic to see how it is rated. They have teamed up with the Environmental Working Group to create this awesome database.

There is one bit of information I was totally bummed by. Some companies still test on animals. I thought that was in our past. That's deal breaker for me. I will never, never buy from such a company. So, I'm on in the market for some new mascara.

Earth Day - April 22

2011-04-21T11:51:00.000-05:00

This is the banner on the home page of http://www.earthday.org/. Tomorrow is Earth Day.

No, you don't need to decorate your house or buy candy. And you don't have to get smart about it either. I know some people think it's a joke to be concern about Mother Earth. I've heard it all.

But here's an idea. Let's put all our opinions aside for just one day and do something a little positive.

Go to the website and learn what you can do for future generations. They're counting on us.

My Grandniece

My Granddaughter

My Grandson

I'm sure you can think of your own reasons.

Sandy's Project-Yay! I'm done (almost)

2011-04-18T19:50:00.000-05:00

Remember this? This was my fun "little project" to do in my spare time.

Ha!!!!!

I laugh in your face.

O.K. So I've had my ups and downs. Am I glad I did this?

Yes.

Will I buy another building to renovate?
Why don't you pull out my toenails instead. It would be less painful.
Here's the current view:

Pretty cool, huh. And, we even have a tenant living in it now. If Ron and I live to be 175 years old; we will actually see a profit.

But the benefits are greater than any profits. Renovating a historial building has its own rewards. This space hadn't been used in over 60 years. We saved the woodwork, honored the integrity and kept the history alive. That was our reward. We love history and the stories that can be told by preserving the tangibles.

Here are some pictures:

Although, I'm "almost" done (I still need to finish the french doors), I'm taking a little break. Then the main floor; soon to become our Rubi J Store, can become the next "Sandy's project".

Just can't wait to break through two layers of bricks.

Garage sales - There's an "App" for that.

2011-03-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

Spring is in the air: green peeking through the snow, hot houses setting up outside of grocery stores, red eyes and noses dripping and, of course, garage sales.

Tis the season.

I know we love a bargain and I don't want to rain on your parade; but, if you're looking for a bargain on baby gear; let's be safe with our most precious little people.

Be on guard when you are shopping second hand for your baby. There is recall upon recall on baby products. I know if you're under 30 you have a smart phone. My daughter couldn't believe when her dad and I recently updated our phones, we purchased the same kind we always had. How 2005's was that?

Here's my advice. Before you purchase that hot deal for your baby; go to http://www.recall.gov/ and find out if that item has been recalled.

We're talking about your baby. Don't be a statistic. A few minutes on your smart phone could change your life for the better.

Happy garage saleing.

Dear Carol, I miss you.

2011-03-21T20:31:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I'm writing this post. I just wrote a tribute to my beloved departed brother. I was ready to put my avenger cape back on to save the world and rid our children of toxins. Then, you just couldn't fight the brave battle you had fought for the last 1 1/2 years any more. Who could blame you. My hero, forever. I am grateful you no longer have the pain.

I remember the night we became friends. I knew you before; you had married a childhood friend of Ron's and mine. Then we moved to a house close to you and invited your family over for an evening. That's when our daughter, Steffie, age 5, and your daughter, Lynie, age 3, met and became BFF to this day. Something else happen. We talked. And talked. And talked. We never stopped.

That night started a special friendship I will cherish to my dying day. The memories, oh the memories. We were young new mothers trying to find our way. We stumbled, we achieved, we did it together. I'm remembering the long conversations we had, sharing our hopes, dreams and insecurities. We wanted the best for our little girls. Somehow, they survived us, and became better than us; which was our goal.

I think what I remembered the most was the comfort we had with each other. When we two families were together, comfort. We all enjoyed each other company.

Our children grew. You and Terry added two sons. What blessings!!!! Steffie and Lynie became Stef and Lyn. We sent them to the University of Iowa (two years apart), we watch them get married with each of them being the maid of honor (of course) and then the icing: grandchildren.

You loved my Stef as much as I loved your Lyn.

I'm not saying goodbye. You will be with me forever; and I know I will be happy again; some day soon; because you want me to be. Love you.

So, I'm now going back to saving the world.

Keeping the spirit alive.

2011-03-16T09:18:00.000-05:00

Sorry, all of you reader (yes, I said reader). I know I haven't written in quite a while. I've been busy thinking about jokes and researching on the web funny things to send to my brother, Stew.

Cancer, once again, came into our lifes. They discovered it around Christmas; lung and spread to the liver. I'll spare you the details.

Here's a thing about Stew. He loved to laugh. I could always make him laugh. But then, everything and everybody made him laugh. He had the greatest giggle and laugh of them all.

That damn cancer won the battle last Tuesday. It's still hard to imagine he gone; not Stew. He was always so full of life, loving each day, even when he was sick.

There's always the tendency to inflate the qualities on the newly departed. We're not delusional. Stew had his faults. But here's the cool part about him; he could always get away with it. He could take someone's parking space and then, without hesitation, engage them in a warm conversation and the next thing you know, everyone is happy. The thing was Stew never recognize he slipped in front of someone. He was just parking, enjoying the day and everyone around him.

Stew was what we all strived for; living in the moment, and loving it. That's why he was so much fun to be around. Everyone that knew him would have a "Stewy story".

We may not be able to hug him anymore or get hugs from him; but he is still with us. His spirit is alive and well. He's laughing with me right now.

Sandy's List: "I love you, man, Mrs. Dash"

2011-02-04T18:41:00.002-06:00

http://www.mrsdash.com/

O.K. This is the second installment of "Sandy's List"; awesome things on the market.

I love Mrs. Dash's Original Blend Seasoning. Ron and I are on a mission to cut our salt intake. You know; processed food - yuch.

Mrs. Dash has been my savior.

We both like foods with a kick. I know salt brings out the favors of even of dullest of foods. Enter Mrs. Dash.

I love because:

I recognized all the ingredients.
I can pronouce all the ingredients.
No salt.

This is the prefect subsitute for salt. Trust me on this one. We have been going without out usual amount of salt of some time and the results are amazing. Prepared foods suck! Sorry, I couldn't think of another work to fit.

The point is - once you start eating naturally, you realize what real food taste like. It's good.

I would be a spokeperson if they ever did T.V. commercials, but I've never seen one. If I was a famous person, I'm sure they would start. (I need to do something important, I would have more clout.)

So, if I have changed a couple of people's (you know who you are) way of thinking; it's been a good day.

Thank you, Martha Stewart.

2011-02-02T10:40:00.000-06:00

From MarthaStewart.com

First things, first.

We love onion rings; real onion rings. You know the ones; "Let's order a big plate first at Applebees, before our 2,000 calorie meal" onion rings.

The frozen onion rings you put in the oven are not technically food, in my opinion. It's this cardboard crust around 3 inches thick with a little slimy worm inside.

So, in our quest to rid us of fried foods, I can across this recipe on the Martha Stewart website. Actually, I was listening to Martha Stewart radio, when someone called in to rave about it. I went to the website, search "baked onion rings" and here they are.

I tried them this week. The recipe's serving was for 4; but after my husband and I finished them off, he asked if there were any more. They're a "keeper".

They would be perfect for Super Bowl Sunday.

I'm not going to give you the recipe. If you're reading this, you already have access to Martha's website. It's easy to find http://www.marthastewart.com/.

One note, however. The recipe calls for buttermilk, which I never have around. You can always substitute regular milk and adding a tablespoon of something acidic - lemon juice, vinegar, etc. It works for me.

Now, if only I can find a way to make corn fritters delicious without deep fat frying them. The quest continues.

Do your homework.

2011-01-28T10:41:00.000-06:00

Access to information is extremely easy these days. We have 24/7 news channels and internet. Want to know something? Sure, just "Google" it. Reading and researching lead me to start an organic clothing business for babies and children. It has also helped my husband and I understand the importance of natural foods in our diet. We've changed our eating habits for the better and discovered how much better we feel and how good real food from scratch can be.

Other things I have discovered:

Obesity in children and adults increases very year.
Diabetes is now rampant in our society.
Autism has increased in the last 25 years from 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 100.
ADHD increases 2 - 3% every year.

I don't claim to be an expert (although my family has accused me of being "a know it all") but let's just look around us. What's different today than when we were kids.

Fast food eateries at every street corner.
Preservatives and additives in almost everything we pick up at the grocery store.
Everyone spraying and fertilizing with chemicals to get the perfect lawn or bigger yields.
Healthy lifestock being injected with antibodies.

I'm a child of the 50's and 60's. I didn't know anybody with autism, ADHD or diabetes. I know many researchers say that because it wasn't diagnosed then. In my heart, I don't buy that.

What I'm asking you is to do your own homework.

Word of caution, however. When you read a research or study, check out the organization that funded or conducted said research. There might be a bias.

Happy Googling.

The Awesome Cheetah.

2011-01-18T11:52:00.000-06:00

Photograph by Chris Johns

I could look at this picture for hours. Such a magnificent creature. I love all animals, but there is something magical about the big cats. They are so regal. I think it's the eyes.

Cheetah.

Even the name is cool. That's why Disney has the "Cheetah Girls" instead of the "Naked Mole Rat Girls". Cheetah is even listed in the Urban Dictionary: "A cougar in training. A sexy woman too old to be a kitten and too young to be a cougar. They are known to move extremely fast."

Now, for the sad facts. Cheetahs are at the top of the list of all endangered big cats. Their habitats are dwindling and so are their numbers.

That's what Animal Tails are all about. Organic clothing for our children with a message. Hopefully, when your child wears one of the Animal Tails tees, they will be encouraged to learn about our endangered species and help made their world better. To learn more about the cheetah, go to http://www.cheetah.org/. It's a great website.

We're featuring the boys Cheetah shirt at http://www.rubij.com/ as our "Special of the Day". Like the cheetah, it's cool.

Grandson Cole is cool, too.

My New Year Resolution.

2010-12-31T13:47:00.000-06:00

Here it is, the last day of the year, and I still haven't decided what my New Year's resolution will be. So, I've been thinking about it all day.

First thought - "This year I going to work out on my Cross Bow exercise machine every day." Wait a second. I think that was my resolution last year (and the year before).

Second thought - Peace in the Middle East. I could succeed where others have failed and become "Time's Person of the Year". Nah, I don't have time.

Third thought - Maybe something more domestic, like keeping my bathroom drawers organized. Too dull.

Final thought - Find joy in whatever I'm doing and keep laughing. Yes, I think I can do this. Hope you can, too.

Happy New Year, everyone.

Keeping the Christmas Spirit.

2010-12-27T10:17:00.000-06:00

Grandson Cole opening his gifts!

I know for sure the Christmas weekend is over. One sure sign was how hard it was to get my jeans buttoned this morning. Ouch. Back to reality.
First things, first.
Hide the caramels.
There.
Now I can concentrate.

The party is over but the spirit lives on. I've been busy these last few weeks (like everyone else) with Rubi J's orders and family planning. Fun but tiring. It's back to the grind; but let's don't go alone. Let's take the Christmas Spirit with us through each day's journey.

Daughter Stef and I made a committment to remember to keep giving throughout the year. We both have our favorite charities to which we donate; but we wanted to get more involved. So we decided to keep reminding each other to "do an extra". When we're at the grocery store, grab an extra item for the food bank. When we're shopping, pick up an extra pair of socks for the Open Door Mission. How simple is this?

I know this comes from watching Bill Murray's "Scrooged" too many times; (I still cry at the end) but what he says is true. "The more you give, the more you want to give." You just don't want that wonderful feeling to go away.

My family and I are so blessed. My husband's and mine favorite expression of endearment to each other (after "Love you") is "We're lucky people".

My daughter, Stef, and me. (That's Stef on the left.)

For you people that don't know me; that was a joke. Merry Christmas Spirit!

A Christmas gift suggestion.

2010-12-10T19:36:00.000-06:00

Here's a suggestion for a Christmas gift that is probably not on everybody's list; but should be.

I have just submerged from a story so inspirational, I'll will never look at the world the same again. Laura Hillenbrand has just released her book about the the life story of Louis Zamperini. Ms. Hillenbrand's first book was "Seabiscuit" the race horse, which was made into an award winning movie. I loved, loved, loved that book; so, naturally I couldn't wait until her next was published. How a wonderful gift she has given us.

The book is called "Unbroken, A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption". This is the perfect title.

Survival - Crashing into the Pacific Ocean during WWII and surviving 47 days in a raft.
Resilience - Being captured by the Japanese and sent to several POW camps, enduring unthinking brutality.
Redemption - Learning how to live in society when those torturous memories had stripped all humanity from you.

I have to admit, it was hard to read at times; what the POWs went through; but, this book is the most inspirational book I have ever read. Every citizen of the United States should read this book.

To me, it's the perfect Christmas gift.

Thank you, Louie, for your service.

The Riverine Rabbit

2010-11-22T11:37:00.000-06:00

When Animal Tails added the Riverine Rabbit to their collection of endangered species, my first thought was "how adorable". Then, my second thought was "I can't imagine any rabbit being endangered". I, of course, was limited in my history of rabbits living in the middle of America. ("Pesky rabbits!")

Then I read about the Riverine Rabbit's plight.

They only live in one place in the whole world; Cape Province of South Africa. Would you believe there are only about 250 left in the wild? That puts them in the critically endangered group.
As with so many other endangered animals, one of the main reasons for their dwindling numbers is lost of habitat. So much of the dense marshes by the rivers are being converted to agriculture. Another reason, unlike most rabbits, these little guys only have 1 to 2 offspring a year; nothing like our home grown.

So, my hat's off to Animal Tails for bringing the Riverine Rabbit into the spotlight. And another tip of the hat to the South Africa's farmers that are using conservation practices on their land to help enable these beautiful little animals to survive. Thank you.

Check out the Riverine Rabbit design at http://www.rubij.com/. They're on the rompers, blankets, hats and t-shirts. The rompers and t-shirts are the current "Special of the Day".

The music in my head.

2010-11-14T14:37:00.000-06:00

Dear Dr. Freud,

I know you're the one to go to for unlocking suppressed thoughts in the brain. I don't want to find out the meanings of my dreams. I'm too entertained by them. I'm desperate to discover why I keep having strange music coming in my head.

Some reasons are obvious. After seeing West Side Story a few weeks ago, I drove myself nuts with "Tonight, Tonight". (I should note I don't sing out loud. In my mind I sound just like the artist.) I finally had to put in my tape of "Les Miserables" to block it out. Funny, with all that powerful and beautiful music, the one that kept running through was "Keeper of House".

This happens to all of us. My husband changed his cell phone ring to a train chugging and whistle blowing. After a week, he changed it back. All he could think of was that old T.V. sit com "Petticoat Junction". He caught himself singing at work "there's Uncle Joe, he's moving kinda slow".

Back to my problem. Why songs that I don't especially like? For instance, last holiday season, with all the beautiful carols filling the air, the only one in my mind playing OVER AND OVER again was Elvis' "Blue Christmas"; complete with backup singers.

Today was weird. I was at the computer with "Sweet Child of Mine" serenading my mind along with Slash's guitar; when, out of the blue, Dean Martin steps in with "That's Amore". It's been in my mind ever since; ("When the moon hits your eye like-a big pizza pie, that's amore"). What the? I don't mind old Dino, but a favorite? No. ("Bells'll ring, Ting-aling-aling; Hearts will play, Tippi, tippi, tay") Where did these lyrics come from? What hidden secret am I suppressing, Dr. Freud.

Maybe I'm reading too much into this. I do seem to function okay. I just need to get this song out my head. Maybe there's an old tape of Barney lying about.

Thank you for your service.

2010-11-10T18:56:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow is Veterans Day. My husband is a veteran. Today we went to our granddaughter's Veterans Day salute at her school presented by her class. For the rest of the day, I had a lump in my throat.

We go to all our grandchildren's school functions. Love them all; but today was different.

These eight-graders presented their thanks to our veterans in such a heartwarming and inspiring way; I'm still in awe.

There were poems, essays and many others reminders of the sacrifices of what was given in the name and meaning of patriotism.

I had to keep holding back the tears, in fear of embarrassing our granddaughter in front of her friends.

Then, at the reception that followed, I learned I was not alone. We were all feeling the same emotion.

Scientists tell us the heart does not feel; it's the brain that controls out emotions. The feeling I had today, did not come from my head; it came from within my heart. I could feel it.

God bless our veterans and God bless America.

Cotton prices going crazy high!

2010-11-08T09:49:00.000-06:00

I thought all of you would like some good news. It always puts me in a great mood when I learn I will be paying more for my husband's Jockeys.

So much for being sarcastic; let's get down to the facts. The price of cotton has been rising and will continue to do so. Several reasons. Inventories were lowered because of the recession; then Nature came into the equation. Bad weather and massive flooding ruined many last year crops worldwide.

The consumer shouldn't see any increases this fall and winter. I really don't know about next year prices. For Rubi J, it's a wait and see. I'm stocking up now.

Well, enough of that, let's move on.

For a limited time during the holiday season, Rubi J is offering Free Shipping.

Check out our current "Special of the Day" at http://www.rubij.com/ . Our popular Polar Bear in the rompers and long-sleeved tee are half off.

Half off and free shipping. That is good news.

Rubi J Clothing, Certified organic cotton baby and children clothes. Fair Trade. Personalized Screen Printing.

2010-10-29T10:10:00.000-05:00

Rubi J Clothing, Certified organic cotton baby and children clothes. Fair Trade. Personalized Screen Printing.

Happy Anniversary, Jane. Thank you for your passion.

2010-10-24T19:40:00.001-05:00

This year is the 50th year anniversary of one of my hero's life long passions that changed science forever. What was really amazing, Jane Goodall was not a scientist, just a young woman with a passion. Fifty years ago Jane, her mother and a couple of guides set off in Africa to study chimpanzees. Unless you live on another panet, you surely have heard of Jane Goodall. She has devoted her life to study of this fabulous creature.

But her story is more than the knowledge we have learned about this primate and but also about our disillusions of mankind. We now know so much more, thanks to Jane.

But, I think the story is the more about the power of passion. She wanted to learn; she had no concerte ideas as to what she might discover. She only wanted to learn.

Awesome!!!!

She changed the scientific world with passion alone.

Read about her journey at http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/10/jane-goodall/quammen-text/1. Do yourself a favor and read her story.

Maybe you will find your "passion". And, maybe, just maybe, you will also learn one person can change the world.

The Big Bad Five

2010-10-18T15:07:00.000-05:00

Periodically, I receive a little booklet from our local utilities called "Eco @ Home". A cool little publication with hints on conserving energy and reducing our carbon footprint. What I learn most is we can all do our part and teach our children with very little effort. We just need more awareness.

There was a neat article on the worst 5 products we should avoid in our households.

PETROLEUM-BASED CLEANERS. We've been bombarded so heavily with antibacterial cleaners that they are believed to being more harmful than good. We're building super bacteria that are becoming impossible to kill. I've used vinegar and baking soda for years. (Gold star for me!)
DISPOSABLE BATTERIES. We Americans send 166,000 tons of them yearly to the landfill where the toxic chemicals from them seep into the soil. Buy rechargeable. This is where I fail miserably. I'm always picking up batteries. (Take away my gold star.)
INCANDESCENT LIGHTS. I think we're all doing pretty good at this one. Everyone I know uses the CFLs.
WATER BOTTLES. Ten years ago, who would of thought drinking water bottles being an environmental problem. The main source of this is only 10 percent gets recycled. The rest are left in the trash, beach or on the side of the road. We use the Brita water filter at home. Taste better, too.
STYROFOAM. A petroleum-based plastic made of styrene monomer, a possible human carcinogen. Styrofoam is my arch-enemy. The biggest pain in the world to get rid of, especially the "peanuts" that usually comes with my husband's Ebay purchases. They fly all over the place; and if the garage door is open with a little breeze in the air; nuts, I'm all over the neighborhood chasing them down!

See, these are little changes we all can make. And "Just say No" to styrofoam.

(By the way, my dogs have nothing to do with this blog. I just wanted to add their picture.)

Let the wild horses roam!

2010-10-10T20:26:00.001-05:00

I research all the wild life featured on our beautiful "Animal Tails" organic baby and children clothes.

This week: the Przewalski's Horse.

What I know: It's endangered. Not a lot of brain power; all the Animal Tails wildlife are endangered. That's our mission; to spread the word using the world of fashion and safe clothing for our children.

What I didn't know: Everything else.

First, how to pronouce Przewalski. (He's the Russian explorer who discovered them.) There's three acceptable ways: "psheh-VAL-skee", "per-zhuh-VAL-skee" or "PREZ-val-skee". Guess what? I still don't know how to pronounce it. Phonics was never my subject.

Let's move on.

This is the last remaining species of wild horses on the earth. They were extinct in the wild until a few years ago when a world wide program started to enter them back into the wild in the Mongolian steppes. Here's where I was wrong again, thinking the Mustangs in the Southwest are still roaming and wild. Mustangs are actually feral horses, tamed becoming wild. The Przewalski's horse has never been tamed - ever.

That leads to the third wrong assumption I had; that these were the horses Genghis Khan rode in the 13th century. That's went I discovered Genghis Khan rode the "true" Appaloosa horse; which I, of course, thought orginated from the Americas. I'm now starting to weary of my inaccuraties. (I have always prided myself as a know-it-all.)

But, enough about me and my shortcomings, the important thing is these beautiful animals have always been wild and should be given their birth right. There are about 1,500 in captivity and a world wide foundation for breeding to keep the species pure is working to release more and more back to their home where they are meant to be; free.

As many of us know, there are special bonds between a girl and her horse. It's one of the reasons the Przewalski's Horse is on the girl's romper and t-shirt in the Animal Tails collection. The romper and girl's t-shirt are currently 40% off at http://www.rubij.com/. A perfect baby or Chirstmas gift.

Save on 3.

2010-10-06T09:12:00.000-05:00

We've started a new regular feature at Rubi J's.

In the past, I have given discounts to customers for various reasons; big orders, repeat business, etc. So, why not make the savings available to all.

For our organic onesies and t-shirts; there will be hugh savings when you purchase 3 or more. This includes our custom t's and onesies.

Go to http://www.rubij.com to check out the savings!!!!

Clifford Ewan Ronfeldt, Pet Psychic

2010-09-29T20:29:00.001-05:00

Let me introduce you to a member of Ronfeldt family. Clifford Ewan Ronfeldt.

Cute, yes? Maybe. He could also be called Clifford Ewan Ronfeldt, Psycho Psychic.

By the way, Cliff's middle name was given to him by granddaughter, Alex. (Another story)

The little monster has changed the Ronfeldt way of living ever since he arrived. We got him because Lucy (the good dog) needed a friend.

Lucy, the shelter dog, is everything you could ask for; patience, kindness, devotion. We wanted to make her happy: "Let's get her a playmate".

Wrong.

We didn't leave them for 2 years because we just couldn't subject anybody to Clifford. He was a handful.

But, I getting off the track. The little dog is psychic. Both Ron and I agree. We have tested him. He knows what I'm thinking.

When we go to the dog groomer for his bath (no matter what route I take) he whinces the whole time going. Whenever I think of dog walking; he's there, going crazy. I don't even have to go to the closet for the leases. I can be in the bathroom doing a number things; but if I'm thinking walk, he's all over me.

I could go on forever. I know this would be boring to you unless you live with dogs.

This little guy is creepy. I've would get rid of him (many have suggested) but no one else would have him. Besides, he mades me laugh, he needs me and I need him.

Clifford, you're here to stay.

OMG!!!!! I've lost my cell phone.

2010-09-26T16:49:00.000-05:00

Yes; the unthinkable happened. I lost my cell phone today. It would have been easier to lose a finger (I could still function). Talk about "Panic in the streets".

I did what any proud American would do. Stop everything. Think. Remember. Retrace my steps. My God, we're talking about my cell phone!!!!!! I knew you would understand.

We had gone to the hardware store; check, not there. I walked the dogs; check, not on that route. Unless, of course, some little kid picked it up (any adult would have called the emergency number because they knew the pain I was going through).

My next retracing was Ron's pickup I had borrowed. I knew it was at my building I was working on uptown. Wait. Maybe it's in the pickup. HALLELUJAH!!!! There it was. On the seat. I swear, there was a halo around it.

So, I found my cell phone; end of story. But what does this tell us about ourselves? Five years ago, we seemed to function just fine without immediate connection to the world. What changed?

We did.

So; are we better off or not? I don't know. My cell phone is always by my side. Is it a good thing or bad? What do you think?

Sharks are cool.

2010-09-22T14:38:00.001-05:00

Sure; not the prettiest face in the animal kingdom, but they are cool.

The Mako Shark is one of the featured wildlife species in Animal Tails product line. This shark is the fastest of all and came jump out of the water up to 20 feet. Cool.

Another interesting fact: They apparently taste good; the main reason the Mako Shark is now endangered. They have been overfished. Their fins are a delicacy. You've heard of "shark fin soup". There has even been reports of fisherman, after catching a Mako Shark, cutting the fins off and throwing it back in the ocean to die. That was hard for me to take; needless suffering.

Animal Tails has two different designs for the Mako Shark. Here they are on the baby items:

Sweet and cuddly for your baby boy.

But as our boys get older, they want cool, not sweet and cuddly. That's why sharks are cool. There wouldn't be much drama in West Side Story if the "Jets" (instead of fighting the "Sharks") were going to rumble with the "Tuna's"or "Guppies". Just doesn't work. And how about the many cool characters you have seen on the big and little screen named "Sharkie" or "Al, the Shark". If you lived in a tough neighborhood, what would you whether to be called: "Shark" or "Fishhead"?

I rest my case. Sharks are cool.

The boys short-sleeved Mako Shark is our current "Special of the Day". For a limited time only, it's half off of retail. Check it out at http://www.rubij.com/.

I love this shade of blue. That's another thing you'll discovered with these organic clothes. The colors stay washing after washing.

I'm trying, really, really trying.

2010-09-20T19:44:00.001-05:00

Last week I was in the hospital for 3 days. No, nothing wrong with me. I was staying around the clock with my dear step-father-in-law during his total knee replacement. First, everything went well; second, no sleep: time to read and research.

I spent hours and hours on Ron's iPad reading about pesticides, additives and preservatives and the correlation with ADDA and autism.

I was upset, outraged and indignant; I must spread the news. So this week I was going to alert the public.

Then, I looked in my kitchen's drawers. Ouch.

White bread, Kraft Mac & Cheese and (the devil himself) Lays Potata Chips. I'm a fraud.

So; back to "Google". Need to find redemption.

Fact: There are 14,000 man made chemicals in the American food supply.

Well, no wonder I lost the battle; I'm just one against an army of commercial might and power.

But, still the battle rages on!!!. We will fight one little scrimmage one at a time. Let's start with artifical food coloring.

When you go grocery shopping; don't buy anything with artifical food coloring. Studies have found a link to hyperactivity and autism.

This will be our first step.

Let us be strong.

Is Orange the new Black?

2010-09-01T14:46:00.000-05:00

I was wondering why I was getting more orders for the orange onesie than any other color lately.

I should probably look at the calendar once in a while. Fall is just around the corner and Halloween is next month. Doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out. Or; unless it is becoming the new black. Babies do look cute in our Papaya Orange. Of course, when don't babies look cute?

Trey's looking good; but any color looks good on him.

The Large Blue Butterfly

2010-08-23T11:50:00.000-05:00

Animal Tails has introduced 5 new endangered species to their line of organic clothing. I always like to research each wildlife a little further. The large blue butterfly has an interesting story.

Its habitat is across Europe, but was declared extinct in England in the 1970's. Scientists at first thought it was because of butterfly collectors. But then (this is the interesting part) Professor Jeremy Thomas made an unusal discovery. The large blue can only survive if there is a certain species of red ants living in the habitat. Who would have thought? Obviously, Professor Thomas is smarter than most of us.

When in the caterpillar stage, it hatches on thyme buds. The ants then carries it back to their nest and there it feeds on ant grubs until it becomes a beautiful butterfly. Climate change in England made the ants go away, thence also the large blue butterfly.

Now to the happy ending. Habitats were restored on 50 former sites to bring back the ants. Then the butterflies were brought in from Sweden. Success!!!

There is still lots of work to be done; but isn't it a thrill that we can reverse the damage done.

The Large Blue Butterfly is featured on Animal Tails' girls t-shirts, rompers, hats and blankets. See them all at http://www.rubij.com/

Sandy's List

2010-08-09T15:00:00.001-05:00

There's Craig's List, Angie's List; and now, Sandy's List. It's a list I alone will create. I'm not sure of all the criteria. For now, it's just little things that has made a positive difference in my lifestyle and I want to share them.

Right now, there is one item on my list: nasal rinse.

Probably not what you were expecting.

First, a little background. I now know I have had allergies all my life. But being a farm girl growing up in the 50's, I don't think I ever even heard the word allergy. I do remember always sneezing and lots of headaches. That didn't travel far with Mothers of that era. If there was no fever, you weren't sick; simple as that.

Fast forward to when mother (me) and daughter (Stef) went to an allergist to be tested. This has been quite a few years ago, but I'll always remember the shame of that day. Young teenager, Stef, and I were filling out our separate history records before testing. I was still smoking at that time.

Talk about a red flag!!!!! "I see you're a smoker, Mrs. Ronfeldt. Do you smoke in front of your daughter?"

"No - well, hardly ever - sometimes - I won't any more." That was just the beginning of a very long day. Every room I was led into there was the announcement "We have a smoker here." I saw the disgust in their eyes.
After all the tests and humiliation, I was told I was allergic to Iowa. In other words, environmental.

Which brings me back to Sandy's List. I have been on so many treatments through the years; but nothing has helped me as much a nasal rinse. I know it sounds gross, but does it ever work. This is what I use:

It only takes a few minutes a day, totally safe and no side effects. If you suffer like me, please try this. And no, I'm not a paid spokeperson (although I would be available).

Adventures in Cooking

2010-07-25T21:42:00.000-05:00

As you all know, the Ronfeldt family (which is now just Ron and myself) have been changing our eating habits over the last few years. We've been cutting sugar and processed foods from our diet (except, of course, Wimmers hotdogs).

What started as a work project has turned into a fun project. Guess what. I love finding new healthy recipes and cooking. Please notice I said cooking, not baking. Two completely different tasks; one fun and the other torture.

I have always enjoyed preparing a meal for others and now I feel inspired. I try to find a new recipe every week or so to try on Ron. Tonight it was a Puerto Rican dish; camarones enchilados. Shrimp in a zesty tomato sauce with cilantro and avocados on whole wheat tortillas. We both thought it was quite tasty, so it will be a "keeper".

Not all new recipes have been successes. I still can't get the taste out of my mouth from the "Basil Pork Chops". I haven't used basil since.

My point is don't make your evening meal just something to get over with; make it an event to share with family. I know today's families are overbooked with activities, but please try to make an effort for this one time of day you are sitting down, all together, looking at each and not the T.V. and reconnecting.

Your kids will thank you some day for the memories.

(Picture from Real Simple magazine, Yolanda Ramos recipe, May issue)

Guilty Pleasure.

2010-07-09T19:17:00.000-05:00

Forgive Mother Earth, for I have sinned.

I've been trying so hard to save you, our bodies and minds.

Ron and I started about 3 years ago to get back to the basic of healthy living. We have cut out almost 90% of processed food. I worked to find new recipes to utilize all the basic food groups. Plus, we always recycle. We feel fulfilled and a little superior to those who take the fast food route.

But, I have a confession to make.

We love burned Wimmer hotdogs. Yes, I said it and I feel the weigh of shame already lifting from me.

Every so often in the summertime, we indulge: Grilled burned Wimmer hotdogs (they have to Wimmers, or no deal), Bushes Original Baked Beans and Lays' Potato Chips. I refuse to look at the ingredients - it would spoil the moment.

So, am I a hypocrite? Please say "no". I'm trying to be honest here, and I need to get this off my chest.

I guess what I'm trying to say is "I'm trying". I believe we need to lead a more organic life; the planet's future is in our hands. I do want pecticides, antibodies and hormores out of our lifes. But, occasionally, I backslide.

I'll try to do better after the grilling season is over.

My project.

2010-06-28T19:57:00.000-05:00

About 5 years ago I bought one of the buildings on the square of Harlan, Iowa, my home town. I rented the first floor with plans to renovate the upstairs, which had been vacate for over 50 years. I've been doing a little every year.

I've certainly had an educate on restoring and renovations. Just like my business of Rubi J, I'm learning as I go. This weekend I'm been putting sealer on the pine ceiling. Up and down the ladder; "wax on, wax off". My legs, neck and back need Mr. Miyagi to apply his healing hands to me.

But, believe it or not, I do enjoy this; although my mind wanders as I apply the dripping sealant.

I think in terms of movies and movie slang. Hey, someone could make a movie about this: "The Karate Grandma falls into The Money Pit". But who would play me in this blockbuster?

Imogene Coca is out. She has passed away. Bless her, I know she would have been happy for a job since her character died in Animal House Vacation.

And Mick Jagger is probably too busy.

Those were the only two I could think of since at various times in my life, people have told me I look like them. (Strange; I not offended.)

Oh well, maybe I'll see if Carol Burnett is available.

New Products and New Prices!

2010-06-23T14:40:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally got all the new Animal Tails products on Rubi J's website. I had several "do overs" and there might still be a few mistakes. I probably should of let my 8 year old grandson do it.

We have added 5 new endangered wildlife in our products; 3 in the girls' line and 2 in the boys'. Also, we now carry baby blankets and hats; all organic cotton, of course. These new rompers are short sleeved and we added the 6-12 month size besides the 3-6 month. All of the new t-shirts are short sleeved.

As I said in an earlier blog, I ordered before manufacturing begin and got a great discount. I'm passing this savings on to you. Check out our new prices at: http://www.rubij.com.

As another bonus, I'm offering until June 30, 2010, 20% off on all Animal Tails products.

Just enter the code TAILS20 when you check out.

This baby girl's gift set will be given away in July to a lucky fan of our Facebook Page: Rubi J Organic Clothing. Become a fan today.

Another "sneak preview"

2010-06-21T16:02:00.000-05:00

I wrote last I would have the new "Animal Tails" products on the website by the weekend. The weekend is over and it late Monday afternoon; and I still don't have them online. I'm taking a break from working on the website to enter a new blog about why I'm late.

Wait a second. If I wouldn't take a break to explain why I'm not finished with my work, I might get done with the task at hand.

I think I'm starting to understand my problem. Bye. Got to get back to work.

Cool stuff, isn't it?

New "Animal Tails" are here!!!

2010-06-16T10:39:00.004-05:00

I had to show all of you a sneak preview of the new Animal Tails products Rubi J just got in. New animals, new lines and new prices. I ordered early for a super discount, and I will be passing this savings on to you.

We're all busy adding them to the website and they should be ready by this weekend to showcase. We'll have bigger sizes in the rompers and we're adding baby blankets and beanies. See, we've been listening to you.

The grandkids love when I get new products in. You wouldn't believe how big Cole's eyes got when he saw the Cheetah. "YES." Cole is into speed (I see trouble ahead with that); so it was no wonder he picked the fastest land animal on earth.

I picked a bigger size for him because we all know about growing spurts and his mother would like to see a couple of years of use and she knows how well these organic tees wash and wash. Cole's Golden Eagle t-shirt is one of his favorites and he wears it as soon as it comes out of the laundry.

Keep watching at http://www.rubij.com/.

Priorities.

2010-06-01T20:20:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry to my readers I haven't been writing lately. I've inserted a picture of my mother-in-law's five generation picture taken last April.

That's when we learned the cancer was back. She was going to fight it tooth and nail, just to buy some time.

After major surgery and radiation treatment, her body told her to stop; it can't take any more. It's on her terms now.

She and her family is meeting with hospice tomorrow.

What do we do?

We make every day with her to be the best in her life. We owe her that.

STOP, THINK, REGENERATE!

2010-05-23T21:43:00.002-05:00

First, a little background on my heritage. I'm third and fourth generation Danish American. I was raised to believe a person's worth was how hard they worked.

Second, I always take on more than I need (apparently to show my worth).

Third, I finally had a free weekend to catch up on all my work projects. I was really excited about this.

But then, Saturday morning came and there was no energy; I couldn't do, and didn't care, any more. It was gone. What was wrong with me?

You know what? Nothing. I needed a vacation; to be me.

Saturday was spent shopping for flowers, plants and vases. I couldn't stop myself. I want that, that and oh, that. I wanted to surround myself with the beauty of nature. Don't you just love the new plant I found at Dianne's?

I can't remember the name, but it pleases me.

Sunday was the perfect vacation day. First, visiting with our neighbors to the south. They're our age and the husband just found out he has Parkinson's Disease. We were a little teary eyed, but mostly we laughed. It was a "bring it on" attitude and we're all in this together. It also reaffirmed our love for each other.

Then I spent the day doing what I really love; working in my flower gardens. The temperatures in the high 80's and I was sweating buckets - loving every minute of it.

No, I didn't get done any work on my ever long list. Yes, I regenerated. This I learned this weekend; feed yourself once in a while. It stops the mind from spinning around and around.

We've all heard the quote "Stop and smell the roses". There's a purpose to that saying. We need to slow down once in a while to appreciate and put our world in the proper order.

I can't tell you how relaxed I feel and excited about the week ahead. I'm so glad I took this "me" vacation.

Enjoy some of my flowers.

There's a new sheriff in town!

2010-05-17T11:17:00.002-05:00

No, he's not packing a 6-shooter; although his mom says he can pack "a load". This is Charley: our newest member of the Rubi J's models family.

Charley is Mikey's baby brother. You all remember Mikey.

Mikey turned 2 last November. He is currently preparing for the next Rubi J photo shoot with the new Rubi J's products. ("Sit still, Mikey, Please.")

Back to Charley. He's the baby of the family. With three older brothers and one older sister, Mom and Dad stated Charley will remain the baby of the family.

We'll see.

To celebrate Charley turning "pro", Rubi J has a special offer only to our readers. Starting now thru this Saturday, May 22, all organic plain onesies will be 50% off. Choose any or all of our 5 colors in the 3 different sizes. To receive this savings:

At the checkout, enter charley in the code box and 50% of the purchase of onesies will be deducted.

We will be seeing a lot more of Mikey and Charley at http://www.rubij.com/.

A mother's reflection on Mother's Day.

2010-05-09T19:40:00.001-05:00

My Mother's Day present from daughter Stef came early this year. In April, she treated me to "An Evening with Deepak Chopra" in Omaha. I couldn't have asked for a better present.

But wait we're not done.

Yesterday, she stop by the house with a flower. She just couldn't let the weekend go without saying "I love you" one more time. (She doesn't know that everyday being her mother is a gift to me.)

Let me show you the flower: it's a Phalaenopis Dalmatian Orchid.

Now, is this awesome or what. My husband, Ron, even noticed it. If you knew Ron, that's quite a feat.

I put it right above my sink so I can enjoy the beauty. The beauty. How simple to enjoy the beauty. How lucky I am to be able to enjoy beauty.

A perfect "Organic" Weekend

2010-05-02T20:57:00.002-05:00

It's Sunday night, I'm reflecting. Don't care if this is the end of the weekend and soon it will be Monday morning. If we didn't have Monday through Friday, Saturday and Sunday wouldn't be special.

You remember (I hope) what my meaning of organic is: living harmoniously with the earth. Well, this was my perfect organic weekend:

Saturday: All day shopping and bonding with my daughter and two grandchildren. Husband, Ron, spent the day in heaven up to his elbows in grease, working on motorcycles. (Win, win situation for everyone.)

Sunday: Visited Ron's mom at the rehab center where we were amazed and thrilled at her progress. In the P.M., we went the symphony pops concert and a tribute performance of the Motown Sound. For baby boomers like us; it doesn't get any better.

In the evening, I fixed one of our favorite heart healthy meals:
Walnut crusted lemon chicken, roasted potatoes and asparagus.

Oh, I don't want to forget the two other members of the family. Ron took Clifford and Lucy for their morning walks and I took them for the evening walks, along with my iPod; totally enjoying the spring air.

So there you have it - my weekend. Probably won't make any newsline and also probably I have bored you to death. Sorry. I'm just happy for the things and people I have. I hope you are too.

My grandkids at Easter.

It's "Earth Day" Don't throw away your "butts"

2010-04-22T19:49:00.000-05:00

Another Earth Day is almost over. What it means to me is more awareness besides action. I noticed today two separate incidents of people throwing their cigarettes out their car windows. Ouch!

First, let me tell you, I'm not being self-righteous. I smoked for years; tried to quit also for years. How I finally kicked the habit (I had become a closet smoker); no, it was not will power or ability. It was bacteria pneumonia and a two day stay in the hospital coughing up blood by the cupful that pervaded me. As I told my daugther "It had never been explained so well before".

I never smoked again.

But when I did smoke, I never litered. (There's a little good in all of us.)

So, on to my next point. If you must smoke (I understand) don't litter with your butts. It's bad, bad, bad for the environment.

Fact:

"[Cigarette butts] also present a threat to wildlife. Cigarette filters have been found in the stomachs of fish, birds, whales and other marine creatures who mistake them for food ... Composed of cellulose acetate, a form of plastic, cigarette butts can persist in the environment as long as other forms of plastic."

--Clean Virginia Waterways

Do us all a favor. Don't throw it out the window.

Thank you.

A gift: The capacity to love.

2010-04-15T20:01:00.002-05:00

A few years ago, I read a wonderful little book: "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl. He and his wife were Jews sent to separate camps during the horrible Third Reich's terror of WWII. He did not know if his wife was dead or alive (she was murdered). He realized one day in his misery and suffering, it did not matter. What matter was he had known love. What a gift!!! I still draw from that passage to help me appreciate the things that truly matter in my life; the capacity to love.

You're looking at the picture above of my mother-in-law, Shirley. I really should say my "other" mother and a true friend. Shirley had colon cancer surgery over 1 1/2 years ago. It was recommended chemo at that time; but she refused; saying she'll take her chances. Well, it returned - lungs, liver and bones. With treatment; 2 years. Shirley's response: "O.K., I was wrong. Let's do it your way." Treatment starts Monday.

Between Shirley and me, we decided the 2 years given her wasn't enough; "Let's go for 5". Her four daughters don't live close, but they are a loving family. They keep thanking me over and over for being there and for my hardship in caring for Shirley.

Here's the payoff. I'm the lucky one because I am close by and I have received the capacity to love. There's no inconvience. I'm the one that gets to spend time with the one I love.

We're planning now on how to spend this time. So, instead of saying "We should" we are saying "Let's go".

Join my "Earth Day Club". It's free!!!!

2010-04-11T21:05:00.000-05:00

I totally love this picture of an Iowa roadside. What mades it special for me is the wildflowers with the pickup in the back ground. It doesn't get more earthy and organic for an Iowan gal like me.

April 22, 2010, is the 40th anniversity of national Earth Day. Let's make a difference. Let's leave all the politics behind us; and the science, whichever side you are on. Let's just give graditude for the spirtuality that this world has given us. Let's give back.

What I'm proposing on this day is not earth shattering; just join my little "club".

Mark the 22nd of this month to pick up one piece of litter and dispose. How simple!!!!

Pass it on. There's 300 million of us in the U.S.

We could be the start of something big.

We all need a vision.

2010-04-08T21:02:00.002-05:00

This last week has been so inspiring.

Tuesday night I spent an "Evening with Deepak Chopra" at the Qwest Center in Omaha. His book "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success" has been by my side for several years. I reread it whenever I need to get my life back to balance. I give it away to all my friends. It was a wonderful night.

The next day was awesome. I went to the ICAN Leadership Conference; again at the Qwest Center. A day of fellowship, inspiration, motivation and networking for women. The speakers were amazing, the vendors interesting and the food plentiful. I came away refreshed, renewed and rewarded.

But, what stayed with me the most was the new friend I met during the lunch.

I sat down at the round table for eight, sitting beside a new person from the morning session. I introduced myself and she did also. (This is what we do at conferences.) Her name is Beth Katz and I want everyone to meet and know her. This lovely young lady is a jewel.

We all should have visions. My vision to keep pecticides out of children's lifes. Her vision: (my words, not hers) "harmony in the world". Beth is the executive director and founder of Project Infaith. Their mission statement:

"Project Interfaith grows understanding, respect and relationships among people of all faiths, beliefs, and cultures."

How refreshing. Instead of barbs, ridicule and mistrust; compassion and the want to understand.

Want to be a better person?

Please go to http://www.projectinterfaithusa.org/.

You'll thank me.

I Love Spring!!!!!

2010-03-28T19:44:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love spring, especially us midwesterners? Spring brings to us moments of appreciation. We did it! We survived another brutal winter. We still love our spouses after all those cold, long winter nights. We are reborn!!!

We feel sorry for our friends in the south that don't have the dramatic changes of seasons. Oh sure, their weather is perfect all year long.

Boring..

We midwesterners are absolutely giddy when we have one day of the week over 40 degrees. We love the whole world. (Take that, San Diego.)

I've had the greatest weekend. Nothing that would make the 6:00 news, or even the local newspaper.

So, what did I do?

Well, Friday, I took the day off with my two favorite girlfriends - daughter, Stef and her daughter, Alex. We spent a day shopping and bonding. No pressure, no deadlines, only fun and sillyness. How could I be so lucky?

Other reasons why I love spring:

I have so much more energy. I've noticed all my dirty windows - but now I want to clean them.
I picked up a flower garden magazine at the grocery store and have read it cover to cover, totally enjoying it, knowing full well I will never do any the new ideas I discovered. (Don't care.)
Walked the dogs until they were actually tired. Victory for me.
Worked in the yard. Got giddy again when I discovered some green poking through the dirt.

You know, when a person is able to enjoy the little pleasures of the day, life is always good and you are blessed.

Making a difference

2010-03-23T21:48:00.001-05:00

When I'm preparing our evening meal each night (supper for the midwest-dinner for the rest of you) I always tune in to NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams. Why I have that preference is because of one segment that ends the broadcast; "Making a Difference". It's about everyday people making a positive difference in someone's life. After listening to all the troubles of the world; it's so refreshing to learn of good turn. Nothing earth shattering; just a person or a group of persons doing something from the heart to help their fellow man and woman.

Tonight, it really touched my heart - foster home for pets for our service men and women deployed overseas.

You, who know me, know what I feel about animals, especially dogs. They have always been my haven, my King X's and sometimes; the only ones I could trust.

Well, before I get too sappy, let me tell you about this beautiful group of people. Sometimes a person who must leave for a while can't find a home for their best friend. That where the Guardian Angels for Soldiers' pets come in. They have established a network of foster homes for this need.

Is this awesome or what!

I love people that are always coming up with solutions instead shaking their heads in sorrow.

To learn more about this, please go to http://www.guardianangelsforsoldierspet.org/.

I love animals; but I really, really, love the human race.

Complains - the American pasttime.

2010-03-15T20:02:00.004-05:00

FACT: I get so upset when I have to run the water faucet to get it really cold.
FACT: One Billion of the world citizens remain without satisfactory safe drinking water. Two Billion of our world citizens have not access to adequate sanification.

YET - I COMPLAIN.

FACT: OMG-----I haven't been shopping for so long. I can't stand anything in my closet.
FACT: At least 80% of the world lives on $10.00 a day.

YET - I COMPLAIN.

FACT: I'm reading the most incredible book. I can't wait to discuss it at my book clubs. So many books to read. When will I find the time?
FACT: Nearly one billion people entered the 21st century unable to read or sign their name.

YET - I COMPLAIN.

FACT: I can't think on something new for our evening meals. I guess I'll just wandered the aisles until something looks good to me.
FACT: The World Health Organization estimates 50,000 in Africa will die each month from malnutrition or disease.

YET - I COMPLAIN.

I live in America. It's not perfect; but I'm going to stop complaining.

Which zebra is endangered?

2010-03-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

The first thing I learned about the zebra was there are three different kinds of zebras. Didn't know that. There's the plains and mountain zebras. Then there is the endangered Grevy's zebra. It's featured on Animal Tails organic cotton short sleeved t-shirt; and it is a favorite of little girls. Here's what the hang tag say:

"Hello Darlings! I'm the high fashion queen of the African plains. I am also the tallest of all the wild equines worldwide - as you'd expect from one with such great model credentials. I live in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia, where I graze all day on delicious grass. My stripes are closer together and thinner than the Plains zebra. They act as good camouflage as the stripes help break up the outline of me when viewed through the bushes. I am named after President Grevy who received one of my relatives as a gift in the 1800's from Abyssinia.

It hasn't been good to be at the height of fashion, as I was hunted almost to extinction. Having such thin stripes compared to other zebras, hunters got more stripes per inch. My relatives have been turned into handbags, slippers, purses and rugs. Although hunting is now banned, we are still endangered because of loss of our habitat to arable farming domestic herds."

So, there you have it. Because of fashion wants, the Grevy's zebra's numbers in the wild went from 15,000 a few decades ago to fewer than 2,500 today. According the African Wildlife Foundation, the greatest threat today is loss of habitat to agricultural use. The AWF has made considerable progress in bringing back the numbers, and; hopefully, someday they will be removed from the endangered list.

This cool shirt is our current "Special". Visit http://www.rubij.com/ to see this and our other Animal Tails.

We have our contest winners!!!!

2010-03-11T13:55:00.003-06:00

Thanks, everyone, for entering the Rubi J's Newsletter contest. The hidden message was "April Showers brings May flowers". Sorry, all of you that entered "Spring showers". The four winners of an organic onesies are:

Janet Buman
Renee Hansen
Melissa Owings
Judie Ahrenholtz

To claim your prize, go to http://www.rubij.com/ and pick out the color and size of the onesie you want and email me at info@rubij.com with your choice and address to sent your prize.

The grand prize winner is:

Ann Schwieso.

Ann, you get to pick out $50.00 worth of product. Just email as instructed above.

Congratulations to our winners and thanks to everyone for playing.

Every little thing we do.

2010-03-10T16:38:00.001-06:00

"Sometimes when I consider what tremendous consequences come from little things; I am tempted to think there are no little things."

Bruce Barton (American Congressman, 1886-1967)

Another quote comes to mind:

"A picture is worth a thousand words."

We're at the Oscars!!!!!

2010-03-06T10:31:00.001-06:00

Well, I'm not actually attending the ceremonies. My invitation must have gotten lost in the mail - again. But, the exciting news is Rubi J's products are in the gift bags given out to the attendees. Wow.

Jessi Waggoner, founder and owner of a fantastic organic skin care line for baby and adults, called me a few weeks ago. She had secured a position in the gift giving venue and wanted to know if I wanted to add some of my products. I pondered for about a nano second and had the products to her in days. I'll tell you more about it when she returns from Hollywood. Jessi's websites are http://www.ecoestheticsskincare.com/ and http://www.mybabyeden.com/.

You can watch Jessi live athttp//www.ustream.tv/channel/oscars-gifting-suite. She'll be on again this afternoon.

Be watching for her. You can't miss that smile.

Yet another nutritional study.

2010-03-04T15:15:00.000-06:00

I don't remember which early morning news show I had on the other day, but it explaining about a new study on fruits and vegetables. The study concluded no difference of nutritional value between organic and conventional fruits and vegetables.

Gee. How interesting. I wonder how much that study cost and who made this discovery. The problem is I personally don't care. That's not the reason I buy organic whenever I have the choice.

In our chemically heavy modern world, I'm trying to reduce the pesticides my family consumes. You would think living in the rural midwest, buying organic food is easy. Not really. Very few are offered at our local stores, and the closest outlets are at least 45 miles away.

So, what to do. In the summer, we do have our farmers' market where I can talk to the growers. That's a plus. But there are lots of fruits and veggies not grown in the midwest. I loved celery for snacking and cooking. It's usually on the top ten lists of most pesticide laden, but I still buy it.

What I do is educate myself so I can mixed my produce with the good and bad. Baby steps, I know, but still trying. You can become more knowledgeable yourself by using the web. Just Google "Pesticides in food". In less than a half of second you will get 8,700,000 hits on this subject.

You now have your assignment, students. Happy reading and pass the onions (they're always number 1 on the best list).

We're back and no longer "winter weary"

2010-02-27T08:48:00.000-06:00

We have returned from our winter vacation of a lifetime. But first, I want to make a plug for the best travel agency in our area. Four Seasons Travel in Harlan, Iowa did us well. We've never had a vacation go so well. As none of us six have ever traveled to Hawaii; we put it in Dori's hands. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Now, we have all suffered from people gloating after they have been to Hawaii.

Please, forgive me because I have became one of them. Sorry!!!

But, I'm not going to talk about how adorable our grandkids are on the beach at Maui. Or the fun at the Luau, or the thrill of whale watching.

My greatest thrill was to be able to enjoy all this with my family. I know many, many people who go on vacations to escape their family. What a blessing to travel with your family and have the greatest of times.

Aloha. (Sorry again, couldn't help myself.)

"I'm leaving on a jet plane......"

2010-02-17T09:25:00.000-06:00

"but, I'll know when I get back again." Next week. Early tomorrow morning, Ron, I and daughter Stef with her family are going to Hawaii for a week. We've been planning this forever and we certainly picked a good winter to leave Iowa. We've seen nothing but snow, snow and more snow for months.

Last night I was making out my "to do" list for today. I noticed how things have changed these last few years. It used to be just being sure the camera had fresh batteries. Now I'm spending the day packing (that never changes) but also making sure Ron's phone is charged, my phone is charged, both of our iPods are newly downloaded and charged. I've got my Kindle downloaded with new books and charged. And, oh yes. the camera's battery is charged. Whew.

I know for sure grandson, Cole, has his DS charged. Can't leave home without it.

Another sign of the times. This is the first I have ever packed one of those weekly pill boxes for myself. That's so gramma doesn't forget her medicine and vitamins.

See you next week.

Rubi J is featured in the Big Apple

2010-02-11T09:33:00.000-06:00

A few months ago, I was contacted by a staff writer for Beauty News, New York. They are an online beauty magazine catering to the New York metro area. Patricia, who researches products for tweens, wanted to sample my Animal Tails tees for girls. She liked our concept and, after receiving our product, loved it enough to write about us in the February issue under the Metro Mom and Babies section.

To see the article, go to http://www.beautynewsnyc.com/.

What's a Cerulean Warbler?

2010-02-08T10:10:00.002-06:00

That was my question when I first saw this cute Animal Tails organic cotton t-shirt. If I would just stop to think: cerulean is a shade of blue, warbler is a songbird. Simple; a blue songbird.

Because of its declining population, this beautiful little bird is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

This charming girl's top is Rubi J's current Special of the Day at http://www.rubij.com/. Here's what the hang tag says:

"I live in North America in old deciduous forests, and migrate to the Andes in South America for my summer holidays. I am a real dare devil, I bungee jump out of my nest, and only open my wings when right underneath. I'm into recycling - if I need to remake my nest, I always take the bits of spider web I used to make the first nest.

Male cerulean warblers love to spend the day singing in the tree tops. They help find nesting space by following the females singing softly in a whisper. The male also guards the nest when the female goes off hunting.

My population plummeted in the 1990s, and continues to fall due to felling of forests for coffee plantations. I need the forest to live and feed off all the insects - it would be okay if I liked coffee..... but bugs are my thing!"

The Audubon Society reports a quarter of U.S. birds are in decline. Now for the good news. We can all help. Birds rebound nicely when their environment improves. We can all start our own backyard conservation. Research on the web which birds are common to your area (easy with Google). Then, plant a tree, bush or flowers that attract them. Simple, yet effective. A great project this summer of the kids.

Here's my BBF, Julieanna, at the zoo with her Animal Tails t-shirt and broken arm. She was jumping on the bed and missed. The cast didn't slow her down. She's my little songbird.

A Grandmother's Rambling

2010-02-05T19:43:00.003-06:00

This will probably mean nothing to you; but I needed to air my gratitude. I catch myself complaining about this Iowa winter with yet another 5-7 inches today. Whoa! Stop! What was I thinking? I am so blessed.

I have two grandchildren. My wonderful daughter and endearing son-in-law have given Ron and me the most unblievable children to love. Let me try to describe them:

First born, Alex:
One word:
JOY: a feeling of great pleasure and happiness; delightful.
That's my Alex. Her sweetness, her humor, her laugh (or giggle) overwhelms me.
I know I am a better person because she is in my life.

Next; Cole
One word:
ADVENTURE: an unusal and exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity. That's Cole. I don't need to say more. It's alway a wonderful adventure when I with him.

So, if you ever catch me complaining again; please, just say "Joy" or "Adventure". I'll know what you mean.

Mothers and Daughters

2010-01-31T19:50:00.003-06:00

This is Lydia. Her mom sent me this picture wearing one of Rubi J's organic custom screenprinted t-shirts. Dana was kind of upset with her little girl for not being so enthusiastic about the "photo shoot". I loved it; for several reasons. Lydia is adorable no matter her mood; and it reminded me how quick our little ones become their own person. It doesn't take long before we mothers lose total control.

Remember what much fun it was to dress our little girls? Just like playtime when we were little girls ourselves. O.K. When you were little girls. I was raised with all boys. I was unaware I was even a girl until 10 or 11; but, I heard you talk on the playground about the fun of dressing up your dolls.

Mothers seem to have visions about how their little girls should look. All usually goes well until "Princess" finds her own voice. And then; apparently, her voice is the only one that matters.

I've seen it over and over again. The athletic mother with a daughter insisting on ruffles and lace only. The beauty queen that can't get her girl out of blue jeans. Oh, the humanity!!!

My advice to all you young mothers out there. Get your licks in while you can. I know my friend, Kandi, has the right idea. She's having a great time with her girls before they "beg to differ". She wanted a little "bling" for her daughter, Avery.

Now was the time.

A very Personal and Sad Story.

2010-01-24T17:45:00.001-06:00

O.K. This story might not be that sad to you, but it's breaking my heart.

My tale starts out terrific. Ron and I will be observing our 45th year of marriage this fall and for Christmas our gift to our daughter and her family was to join us in Hawaii to celebrate this February (the darkest part of Iowa's winter). Sounds great, doesn't it? And it has been. I've been ordering new clothes for Ron and me. Perfect; everything was on sale this past fall.

Then; disaster struck. I would need a bathing suit. Oh Oh.

No problem, says daughter Stef. "The new ones pull you all in." Here's a little info for you; they pull in "young" skin; they push "old" skin out and over. Not going to work. Back to the internet. The only suits I found acceptable were only available in 3X's. I'm a 8. Eight with some problems. Stef said it can't be that bad; but she didn't see what I saw.

Here's the problem; about 10 ten years ago Ron and I were in Tel Aviv, on the mederterrian. It was one of the most exquisite places we have ever been. Yet; my most vivid memory was the old people on the beach, in their speedos and bikinis. I'm not talking about "old" people like "I can't believe you have grandchildren". I'm talking about "I left my teeth by my walker" old. I couldn't take my eyes off of them. That's the story I related most when I returned home; even demonstrating their shuffle across the sand.

Stef convinced me to try one of her old suits; which I did. My dog couldn't even look at me. I felt as if I should apologize; just didn't know to whom.

Anyway, that's the end of my "sad" story. I'll be wearing one of Stef's hand me downs. I'm now back on the web, looking for an awesome coverup to transport me from my hotel room to the beach. I do not want to become a "tourist attraction".

The Snow Leopard

2010-01-20T14:56:00.000-06:00

Photo by Aaron Logan [http://www.lightmatter.net/ source

Did you know there are two different snow leopards in our world? There is the beautiful big cat of Central Asia. Secondly, most Apple computer users know the Snow Leopard as the newest Mac Operating System. I'm not worried about Apple's future. They seemed to be very secure. The living Snow Leopard, however, is endangered. For more information go to http://www.snowleopard.org/.

Look at this glorious animal. That it could be lost in the wild forever is heartbreaking.

The Snow Leopard comes on one of the Animal Tails girl's long sleeved t-shirts. It's our current "Special" at http://www.rubij.com/. Here's what the hang tag says:

"I love to roam in the high, wide open and very cold snowy mountains of Central Asia. But you will have to look hard to spot me as my coat is perfect for camouflaging me in the snowy rocky terrain. My stunning extra long tail provides extra balance as I leap gracefully from one mountainous point to another, it also works beautifully as a very stylish scarf to keep my nose warm on really cold nights! My large paws are like snowshoes, to help me walk on snow.

My beauty has been the reason we are so endangered, people keep hunting us to put our furry coats on cat walks! Despite a worldwide ban on hunting, we now find traditional medicine makers are after us for our bones, and on top of all that, our habitat is now under threat from domestic herds, things are really getting very tricky for me, but I am too shy to make much of a scene about it."

I hope some people searching for answers about their Mac's OS will stumble across some websites informing about these Snow Leopards' plight.

BPA (Revisited)

2010-01-18T19:32:00.000-06:00

I wrote the following blog last September 11, 2009:

Are baby bottles safe?

We’ve all seen civil and criminal trials on TV, whether fictional or real. Each opposing team will call their expert witnesses. These witnesses are no “men/women off the street”. They are highly qualified individuals with a zillion letters after their names. Yet, given the same data, they arrive at totally different conclusions. Who are we suppose to believe?

So, in our daily lives, who do we believe what is safe or harmful?

I decided to do a little research of my own on the safety of Bisphenol A, otherwise known as BPA. I’ve been reading reports all week. BPA is either totally, totally safe or one drop will turn your child into a mutant. Clear on that? OK, let’s get in a little deeper.

BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical produced in large quantities in our society. It’s used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. The polycarbonate plastics are used in food packaging, water and infant bottles and medical devices among other products. Containers will usually have the symbol “7” or “PC” on it. The epoxy resins are used to coat metal products like food cans. It’s the use in baby bottles that has created the most controversy.

In my quest for answers, I first researched where and who any report was generated. Once this is known, it’s fairly simple to guess what conclusions will be reached.

The report I found to have the least bias was issued by the National Toxicology Program, a division of the National Institute of Health. The website for this and other reports is http://www.niehs.nih.gov/news/media/questions/sya-bpa.cfm.

In short, they found Some Concern for effects on the brain, behavior and prostate gland in fetuses, infant and children at current human exposures to BPA. On a scale on 1 to 5, Some Concern is a 3.

So, read the report and make you own decisions. My thoughts. When it comes to our children, some concern is enough. It’s also enough for some manufacturers. We are starting to see labels stating “BPA-Free”.

This is what I love about living in this society of ours. We always have the right to question.

So now, an update.
According to the Washington Post, CBS News and other news agencies, the Food and Drug Administration is reversing itself. Instead of stating BPA is not harmful, there is "some concern". It has based its earlier statements totally on studies made by the chemical industry. It will be conducting their own tests.

Hey. Shouldn't they be doing that all along? Oh, well; let's look ahead. This means more serious studies will be made. It has already been documented that 90% of the population has BPA in their urine. BPA is a synthetic estrogen; just what we need to supply growing babies and children.

Grass roots movements do work. You see more and more baby bottles being advertised as "BPA Free". There's always a better way; and we will find it.

The Ring-tailed Lemur

2010-01-10T17:08:00.000-06:00

What do you think: "Way too cute" or "Far too spooky"? I'm going with the cute vote.

The Ring-tailed Lemur organic girls' t-shirt is a favorite at Rubi J's. A lot of little girls have had stuffed lemur toys.

But, sorry to say, they are endangered. Man is continuing to remove their habitat.

Hear the Lemur's story on their hang tag that comes with each shirt.

"Lemur, means "ghost" in Madagascar, probably because we look rather spooky. We're really sociable, hanging out in groups of about 30 swinging from trees, partying and looking for food.

Our tails look so special because they have a lot of uses, we raise them high in the air like flags to tell each other "follow me!" when we show off for our females, we rub our tails with a stinky perfume which we secrete from glands in our wrists, it's our equivalent to aftershave. Once soaked with it, we raise our tails over our heads and point them at each other, flinging the perfume around to show who makes more scents. The stinkiest one wins the lady!

Deforestation for human inhabitation is seriously threatening our survival."

Huh. Interesting way to attact the female. We human girls don't usually learn about the guys' stinking ways til after the ceremony.

Check out the Ring-tailed Lemur tee at http://www.rubij.com/. It's our current "Special of the Day".

Organic Living (cont.)

2010-01-08T19:32:00.003-06:00

After my first blog about organic living, meaning to live harmoniously with the earth, I would like to add more thoughts.

First, the weather in the Midwest has been brutal. We can't find any more space to put the snow. The sub-zero temperatures are trying, to say the least. We can't think of anything to talk about except the weather. It's affecting my cheery outlook. What to do????

I know. Turn to the one and only cure: Black gospel music. If you have not try this alternative medicine; let me reassure you, it's safe. It can be taken with any medication. I swear. You will begin to feel your blood flow again, your mind soaring, happiness is within you.

It doesn't matter what, if any, religion you are, the power of black gospel music will heal.

I discovered this music when we lived in Louisana in the 70's. I listened to it on the radio every Sunday morning. It wasn't the arrangements, the production or even the song itself. It was the purity of the feeling of joy and being able to express it. How I wish I had that talent.

My favorite album I own is Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers. If you are old enough, you will remember Sam Cooke as a pop artist in the 50' and 60's. Before that, he was a gospel singer. Totally awesome!

I've told my family I want his song "Any Day Now" to be played at my funeral (along with Boys II Men's "It's too hard to say goodby"); which hopefully won't be for a long time.

Go to YouTube and find out for yourself. You will become a believer.

Perfect weather.

2010-01-04T19:57:00.000-06:00

It's currently -20 F. One of the forecast for high temperatures this week is -2 degrees F (that's right the high for the day).

We will have at least 6 more days of this frigid weather including another 6-7 inches of snow on top of the 25" we had in December.

What a perfect time to pick up that book you received for Christmas and travel to another time and place.

How lucky are we!!!!!

Seamese Crocodile and more.

2010-01-01T08:34:00.001-06:00

Our "Special of the Day" . The boys' favorite. 30% off at http://www.rubij.com/.

"There I was peacefully lumbering across my local river bank in Thailand, when I bump into a bunch of crazed scientists with a camera, behaving like I was some Hollywod star at the Oscars. Turns out it was the Wildlife Conservation Society looking for tigers, when I stepped into the frame.
Apparently they thought I was completely extinct in Thailand. I have a few relatives that live in the wild in Cambodia but apart from that we are farmed to make hand bags. Imagine living your life in captivity and finishing up as a hand bag.
I might look fierge on this this shirt but in fact I'm a big softy and only eat fish, and will only attack you if you attack me."

That's the hang tag on the Seamese Crocodile Organic T-Shirt. In 1992 this fresh water crocodile was thought to be extinct in the wild. Now, through conservation groups, they have a new beginning.

Although, not the cutest, cuddling creature; they are important to the region ecosystem; they have a chance. There are good, good people working to save them.

When I was researching the Seamese Crocodile, I made a remarkable discovery. A discovery that may have changed my life.

I discovered the Fauna and Flora International organization. I can't believe I have never heard of them before now. Wow!!! Let me inform you.

Fauna & Flora International is the oldest international conservation organization in the world. Founded in 1903 (that's right, 1903), it has one of most remarkable contributions to saving the natural world I have ever researched. They don't just throw dollars at the situations, they solve.

They work with underdeveloped countries to partner communities in showing ways of making conservation economically viable. They demostrate how to become part of the solution and strive.

It has reinforced my belief that there are much more good people on this earth than bad or misinformed.

Do yourself a favor and go to http://www.fauna-flora.org/.

Do you doodle?

2009-12-29T15:32:00.001-06:00

My grandkids doodle all the time. They didn't take after me in the art department and, therefore, are very talented.

We have been having requests for larger t-shirts. We added Youth Organic Tees in Natural and White. They are from the same company of our toddler's tees and the same high quality.

I wanted to create a specialty line in the youth tees also. I asked Alex to come up with some of her "doodles" around some well known song titles. I loved what she designed. They're actually what I had in my mind. Just something fun to wear.

We currently have four designs and are working on more.

Cole has his favorite on. I couldn't talk him into "Girls just want to have fun!"

http://www.rubij.com/

What a Merry, Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-28T21:22:00.001-06:00

These are my kids on Christmas. Christmas this year was Saturday, December 26. Christmas is whenever we are together. We were all snowed in on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; but we were safe; nobody on the roads or traveling. We had our Christmas with the Kramers and brother, Curt. What a blessing.

My Christmas prayer to all of you - take time to review your life. If you have someone to care about, whether family or friend, you are blessed. It doesn't either matter if you were alone this holiday; if at one time in your life, you loved; you are blessed. Hold on to that memory.

Happy holidays from the Ronfeldts.

Seahorses

2009-12-15T10:48:00.000-06:00

At http://www.rubij.com/, the current special is the Animal Tails girls long-sleeved organic tee with the Seahorse original design.

Here's what the hang tag that comes with the t-shirt says:
"People ask 'what is love?' Well seahorses have the answer: we are ultra romantic. Every morning we start the day with a dance. We change into different colours to keep the romance alive. The dance lasts ten minutes, then we separate for the rest of the day so as not to risk getting on each others nerves. We remain partners for life.

What's great about being a female seahorse is we don't have the babies, ha ha yes the men have them not one or two, but about 1000 a year. That may sound a lot but we are now endangered. We like to hang out in the same place, so when fishermen find us we are an easy catch. We are too pretty for our own good as we look fabulous in aquariums. We are also caught in large numbers for use in herbal medicines for fertility treatment"

I don't know about you, but the male seahorse seems like my kind of man. Monogamous, mate for life, takes you dancing every day, doesn't get under foot for the rest of your time and has your babies for you. What more could a woman want?

On a more serious note, several species of these magical creatures are endangered. How sad.

(Photograph by George Grall)

My Christmas gift to you.

2009-12-10T19:42:00.000-06:00

I have thought long and hard and came across the perfect gift to give you. You'll love it. It will last forever. What could this wonderful package be?

I'm giving you the opportunity to change a human life.

What is this magic you say? Please, let me know the secret.

Simple. A book. Not just any book; but a book that is one's own. No one else. No second hand. My own book.

Oh Oh, I feel your disappointment. You thought a present to hold. Well, it is a present to hold; in your heart. You that know me, know how important it is to open the world to children through books. You also know as a child of poverty, the unprivileged children of the world are my soul mates. That's the reason the First Book Foundation is Rubi J's main charities.

Here's one of their stories:
"We are driven to reach every child because once you meet these kids and see the light in their eyes when they receive books of their own, you can never forget them. One little boy at a book distribution asked for a book on carpentry and we had one that suited him perfectly. Before leaving, he came up to return the book. We told him it was his to keep and watched as his eyes grew big and he tucked the book under his arm and left the room, looking back every few steps to be sure we weren't kidding!"

In 2009 First Book celebrated their 17th year and 65,000,000 book distributed.

Now; here comes the exciting news. Randon House for Children Books has pledged to match book for each book donated through December 31, 2009, to First Book. Double your donation; double your gifts.

Can you find it in your heart to give $5.00 to open the world to a child. You might be the one who saves him or her. What a gift!!!!

Go to http://www.firstbook.org/ to receive your gift of giving.

To bamboo or not bamboo.

2009-12-07T11:50:00.000-06:00

I've been researching bamboo clothing to add to the Rubi J Store. Bamboo doesn't have to be certified organic. It just is. Bamboo grows without pesticides or fertilizers added. It's recognized as a green material by several organizations.
Bamboo Facts I have learned:

Produces up to 35% more oxygen than trees.
Absorbs four times as much carbon than trees.
Has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Matures for harvest in less than 4 years.
Regenerates itself without replanting.

Exciting news, isn't it? But wait. Here's the rest of the story. The harvesting and processing of bamboo into the incredibly soft fabric is more complicated.

There are two different ways to process bamboo into fabric - mechanically or chemical. Mechanically is a longer and much more expensive process, but does not use harmful chemicals. Chemically process bamboo is much cheaper and faster. You can probably quess what system most manufacturers use.

You may have seen where some bamboo products carry the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certification. This is a good sign. Oeko-Tex is an independent organization that looks for toxicity in the processing of fabric. To receive the Oeko-Tex100 certification, the fabric tested must not have any substances that are prohibited by law, carcinogenic or suspected of being harmful to health. If does not mean harmful chemicals to the body or environment have not been used; only none is left in the fabric.

There is also Oeko-Tex Standard 1000 certification. This certifies that the manufacturing process is environmentally friendly and at least 30% of their production is certified with their Standard 100.

Neither one of these certifications address fair labour practices.

So, would I buy bamboo clothing for myself? Probably. Would I sell bamboo clothing for babies and children? Not yet.

For more information, go to http://www.oeko-tex.com/.

Fly like an eagle.

2009-11-29T15:43:00.000-06:00

The golden eagle is another one of Animal Tails endangered species organic t-shirts. Here's what the hang tag says that accompany each tee:
"I am call a Golden Eagle because I have a striking golden crown and nape. I'm sacred in some cultures and my feathers are central to many religious and spiritual customs, expecially amongst Native Americans. Mexico even made me their national bird.
There are only 420 pairs of us in Great Britain. We like mountains so live in the Scottish Highlands. A pair of Golden Eagles remains together for life. Our nests are eyries and we build a few in our territory, which can be up to 160 sq miles. I need this space for hunting. I have very good eye sight and can spot prey from a long distance. I swoop down and kill my dinner with my talons. I can kill a fox outright. My population is getting smaller because I sometimes eat livestock, so people poison and shoot me, but I'm only being a hungry Golden Eagle."

In America the main diet are rodents, rabbits, birds and reptiles. But in the 1950's ranchers perceived the eagle as a threat to their livestock. An estimated 50,000 eagles were destroyed by them. Thank heaven the Golden Eagle has been protected since 1963. The bald eagle has returned to enough numbers to remove them from the endangered list, although they are still protected. Hopefully, the Golden will have the same successful route.

It's no wonder there are many, many legends and lore about the eagle. There is something magical about all birds of prey.

The Golden Eagle is our current "Special" at http://www.rubij.com/.

Nothing to do on Thankgiving but to give thanks

2009-11-24T20:17:00.004-06:00

Okay. It's a few days from Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday. Everyone is thinking about Christmas shopping. I'm usually thinking about the Thanksgiviving meal I will prepare and serve to my loved ones. I've had the menu made out weeks ago and the shopping all done. But not this year. Husband Ron told me to take a break for once.

It's daughter Stef's turn to host the Kramer side of her family for Thanksgiving day and mother-in-law Shirley invited us out for that day. I was planning on having Thanksgiving on the following Sunday but Ron said I don't have to work every holiday, one meal is enough. At the time I agreed. Why should I work every holiday.

Now that is a few days away, I realize it doesn't seem like a holiday. I miss it. I miss getting up early and sweating over the stove and counter all morning to serve my family. What's wrong with me?

I know. I feel blessed to have such a loving family sitting around the table enjoying each other company with the food I prepared for them. (Maybe it's an ego trip.) I never really enjoy the meal, just the company.

I should quit whining and enjoy the holiday for remembering our blessings, and I have many.

Take this day of the year and be thankful. I am.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

The Blue Summit Experience

2009-11-22T15:24:00.001-06:00

Last Tuesday evening, daughter Stef and I went to a holiday gathering at the Blue Summit store in Omaha, Nebraska. I think its official name is Blue Summit Global Experience. It's located at 4101 South 120th Street in Omaha.

Believe me, it is a wonderful experience. The gift store's mission is to "create hope, dignity and independence by supporting artisans from developing countries." There was pottery, books, purses, jewelry, baskets, wall hangings, metal works; the list could go on and on. It was fascinating to wander around the store and read the stories of the artisans and marvel at the workmanship.

I picked up a few Christmas gifts and the vase in the picture for myself.

The next time you're in Omaha, stop in at Blue Summit and try the "experience" for yourself.

The Polar Bear

2009-11-19T14:39:00.001-06:00

The week at http://www.rubij.com/ the Special of the Day is the Polar Bear long sleeve organic cotton t-shirt from our "Animal Tails" collection. It's currently 40% off retail.

Let's talk about the polar bear. Everyone recognizes this wonder of the northern ice. I wonder how many kids have had a stuffed polar bear to sleep with at night. And for sure, the polar bear has become the symbol of global warning. Here's what the hang tag says on each of the tees and rompers about the Polar Bear:

"Now a few facts, I'm a brilliant swinner, 60 miles non-stop is OK for me. In fact I love water so much I will spend as much time in the water as on the ice, perhaps that's why I have the Latin name Ursus Maritimus, meaning Sea Bear. I also have partially webbed paws which help me along. As well as that, my paws are an impressive 30 cms across. With paws that big you would expect me to be pretty big too, well I am - actually I'm the largest land carnivore in the world. But despite my impressive statistics, I'm in serious trouble. Climate change and pollution is ruining my food supplies.
What can you do to help? Going organic is a great start to slowing down the pollution problem - you can't do better than an Animal Tails T-shirt with my picture on it! Another great idea is to get your parents to turn down the heating and start wearing a thermal vest - discover the the joys of wearing your own insulation just like me!!
Thank you."

If the Polar Bear is in trouble, so are many other of the smaller carnivores of the Artic. They scavenge the remains of the polar bear's kill for their survival. I know it's fairly unlikely any of us will ever see a polar bear in the wild, but I like to think of them always running free up north.

Organic Living

2009-11-13T20:00:00.000-06:00

One of the meanings of organic is "denoting a relation between elements of something such that they fit together harmoniously as necessary parts of a whole". So when I say organic or organic living, I think living harmoniously with the earth. That may not be academically correct, but it's the way I think; enriching yourself without harming the world.

That being said; let me tell you about some of my favorite things on my iPod. (You didn't think that was where I was going, did you?)

I love, love, love music. I love, love, love my iPod. But here's the strange thing. When I'm walking the dogs with my iPod; I don't listen to music. I turn on to my free podcasts.

When you access your iTunes, please look at the podcasts. They are awesome. I'm a NPR junkie, so that's most of the podcasts I download. My two favorites by far are "Wait, wait, don't tell me!" and "Selected Shorts".

"Wait, wait, don't tell me" is a current events quiz show. I know. Sounds boring, doesn't it? Trust me. If you like wit and social comment, you'll love this show.

"Selected Shorts" is a program dedicated to the celebration of the short story. Two or three short stories are read by actors to a live audience. It is soooo entertaining. I especiality love the ones read by John Lithgow (you know him from "Third Rock from the Sun"). My all time favorite of his is "Indian Country".

Anything you are interested in, you will find a podcast. Some of my other favorites are "This American Life", "The Pet Hour by Iams" (of course) and the Terri Gross interviews on "Fresh Aire".

Expand your horizans, think outside of the box, think "organically". Maybe you'll find something to fit "harmoniously" with your life.

Oh look, a puppy!!!!

2009-11-11T11:51:00.000-06:00

We all love puppies, don't we. The one in this picture, however, will never be in a pet shop window. These are African Wild Dogs, one of the endangered species on Rubi J's Animal Tails organic t-shirts.

I've been reading about them and, boy, have they ever been given a bum rap. Sure, they're carnivores; but so are most of us. Not as magnificent looking as the lion or other big cats; they don't get equal press on the nature shows.

Here's what the hang tag that comes with each tee reads:

"Your domestic dogs are related to me. We're found only in Africa, especially in scrub savanna and other lightly wooded areas. Our coats are bespoke design as no two individuals have the same markings.

We hunt in packs and give a mean chase, catching 85% of our prey, poor deers! We look vicious so you would have thought that we howl like wolves, but in fact we chirp like birds when communicating. After a succussful hunt we go home and regurgitate meat for those who stayed behind.

The current estimate for remaining Wild Dogs is approximately 3000. Of these the majority live in the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania.

Part of the profits of the T-shirt go towards AfriCat, who campaign for our protection."

Encourage your children to learn more about the African Wild Dog and why they are important to the eco-system. The African Wildlife Foundation has a great website: http://www.awf.org/. Also, read more about the Africat Foundation at http://www.africat.org/.

You can see why grandson Cole thinks they're "awesome".

Rubi J's current special is 40% off the African Wild Dog tee. Have a look: http://www.rubij.com/.

GRATEFUL-GRATITUDE

2009-11-04T20:11:00.001-06:00

Look up "gratitude" in the dictionary or thesaurus and you will find "appreciation".

I beg to differ.

Gratitude goes so much deeper. I appreciate a fine wine, a superb meal or a delightful movie. Gratitude moves my body and soul.

I have not always been aware of daily gratitude; but for the last 12 years that how I end my day, expressing gratitude. Try it; you'll like it. You will be amazed how your problems are minimized and the living world is a good place.

Try this for a week. Get into bed at night, either on a notepad or in your head, list the things you are grateful for this day, and this day only; doesn't make any difference how big or small. It could be a kid's giggle; just remember it. I swear, in one week, you will become a more centered person with this wonderful universe.

So, how do I know this? My husband and I have lived this. Over 12 years ago, Ron and I were faced with our only child's death. She beat the odds and we have her today. It's still too painful for us to talk to each about; but we have our "code". We just say "we're lucky people" and we know.

Don't go what we went through to discover how wonderful life is. Start your "gratitude" journal today.

Our daughter, Stef, and her daughter, Alex, who is 12 years old.

GRATITUDE.

Spotlight on elephants

2009-10-29T14:28:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love elephants? They've always been one of my favorites. I love watching them on Discovery or Animal Planet. I've even envision riding on one. I know that will never happen. I love horses, too, but I'm scaried silly every time I'm actually riding on one.

The Asian Elephant is on one of our endangered species t-shirts. The hang tag which comes with each shirt states:

"The difference between me and the African elephant is I have smaller ears, a rounder back, 19 ribs instead of 21, but most of all I am much more friendly. If you ever see an elephant at the circus, it will without doubt be an Asian elephant as we're easily domesticated, and form loving bonds with humans.

The matriarch elephant in a herd is responsible for remembering who is a friend and the traditional migration routes, hence the expression 'an elephant never forgets'. This is one of the reasons for our decline in the wild, if humans have built houses on our migration route we'll trample through their house, rather than go round, which tends to annoy then, so they kill us. We are also heavily hunted for our tusks and now there are only about 32,000 of us left."

Pretty sad, isn't it. Go to the Wildlife Conservation Society at http://www.wcg.org/ to learn more about these amazing animals and the projects ongoing to help support conservation of the Asian elephant.

As you can see kids of all ages and gender love elephants.

We currently have the Asian Elephant as our "Special of the Day". Take a look at http://www.rubij.com/ for savings of 40% off.

The power of one.

2009-10-25T19:48:00.002-05:00

I just took out the Sunday evening trash pickup. It included 2 bags of lawn clippings for recycling, 1 bin of recyclables and 1 bag of garbage.

Ten years ago it would have meant 4 bags to the landfill.

We're a nation of over 111 million households. Muliply that by 3 extra bags a week to the landfill.

See. We can make a difference.

We're catching on!

2009-10-22T11:32:00.001-05:00

Organic cotton is becoming more mainstream. That's good news for you and your pocketbook. As predicted, the more the demand, the more production and lower prices.

According to The Organic Cotton Market Report, retail sales of organic apparel and home textile products climbed 63% in 2008. The 2008 Organic Cotton Farm and Fiber Report states organic farming worldwide for the 2007/2008 year increased 152%. Wow!

India, where our onesies originated, has overtaken Turkey as the leader in production worldwide. Their production, according to The Organic Trade Association, increased 292%. The United States increased its production in 2008 by 9%.

I have noticed in my web wanderings we in the States are behind in sustainable living than with our friends beyond the pond. I wonder if it because we are such a big country and have so much space. But, times are changing and so are lifestyles.

So; what does this mean to you? As my prices go down; so will yours. Rubi J has reduce the price on all of our onesies products. Check out the website. http://www.rubij.com/

That's little Katherine in one of our custom screen printing onesies.

Leopards, Wild Dogs, Seahorses and Bears, Oh My!!!

2009-10-17T10:36:00.003-05:00

I know. The title doesn't flow. It's just we've added more to our wonderful "Animal Tails" line and I thought this would caught your attention.
We already had the Polar Bear, Seahorse and Snow Leopard in the Rompers Line; but now we added them to the children's tees, along with the African Wild Dog.

I love, love, love Animal Tails. The organic cotton in soft jersy knit is such a winner. The kids love them because they are so cool. The mothers love them because they wear so well.

One of the many, many nice things about being a girl is we can also wear the boys' tees. The girls' tees are too small for my 12 year old granddaughter, but she can wear the 9-10 year size in the boy's because of the bigger cut.

Also, check out our website. We have two new features. "Clearance Sale" on one of a kind; and our new "Special of the Day".

We have been out of the Polar Bear Rompers. They are just too cute. We now have them back in stock. They make the perfect baby gift.

It's been fun restocking and adding new. Now; if the sun would only shine here in Iowa for just a few hours......

First book

2009-10-10T22:29:00.002-05:00

Do you know why I love books? Why they are my passion? Why First Book is the the charity Rubi J supports?

Empathy.

Most of us can feel sympathy. It hurts to see a young one cry. It hurts to see war on the television news. But how do we feel the same hurt as our fellow human being? We have to be that person; and through books, this is possible.

I'm reading a book right that I don't wholly understand, but it is so powerful in its narrative that I cry from the pain of the life the author was given.

I read all books; fiction and non fiction. I always come away more fulfill as a citizen of the world. I want this for all children.

Technology has made our world smaller. But, we need more for our internal growth than text messaging. We need to connect. We need to learn. We need to empathize.

Let's give the children of the world the tools. Teach your children to read. Help other children to read.

As Martha Stewart says: "It's a good thing".

http://www.firstbook.org/

Another "Animal Tail"

2009-10-05T12:02:00.000-05:00

I've been reading about dermochelys coriacea. That's right, dermochelys coriacea. I'm talking about the Leatherback Sea Turtle, and, of course, I didn't know it either. I can't even pronounce it.

I've been on a personal mission to learn more about the endangered species on our "Animal Tails" t-shirts. It has been equally enlivening and heartbreaking.

According to the National Geographic, the leatherbacks are the only remaining representatives of turtles that traces back more than 100 million years. So how can it be possible, after all this time, they are now designated as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act? Here's their story from the hang tag attached to each tee:

"I am the largest reptile in the world. I'm about 2m (7ft) long and weigh almost 2000lbs. I have huge flippers which propel me around the world. My favourite place though is the Caribbean, that's where I nest. I always return to the same beach to bury my eggs in the sand. The problem is each time I go back there are more and more humans. The amount of times my eggs have got squashed by some kid playing volley ball or parking their deck chair on top of them! But my family have nested there for centuries so I don't see why I should move.

My favourite food is jellyfish, but I mistake plastic bags in the sea for them and that is the main reason for us being endangered. If I eat one it will know kill me. Please ensure that none of your plastic ends up floating in the sea, it will be the death of me."

So, we are the problem. There is an organization dedicated to saving the leatherback turtle. Larry McKenna's book Almost Gone details their plight. To learn more, go to http://www.saveourleatherbacks.org/.

We can become part of the solution.

That's my grandneice,Julianna, at the zoo.

CALLING ALL DOG LOVERS!!!!!

2009-09-30T19:36:00.003-05:00

Don't we love our four legged companions and confidants? We lucky people that have looked into the eyes of this other species and felt a connection are privileged and graced.

Having said that; I want to tell you about one woman making a difference. My new friend, Cea, (one, like me, believe dogs have souls) told me about her friend, Starline Nunley. Starline's son was serving in Iraq and, of course, like all mothers ask what she could do to help him in his mission. He told her the government supplied him with everything to assure his safety, but apparently had forgotten about their most faithful soldiers. The temperatures are so hot in Iraq and the dogs have no protection from the heat. These wonderful dogs are the first line of defense in searching for IED (Improvised Explosive Devices).

Being a dog lover, Starline got to work. She started the http://www.supportmilitaryworkingdogs.org/. This charity provides cooling vests, pads for their feet, water bowls and one toy for their "down time". Learn more about this organization at their website.

My dogs Clifford and Lucy.

This Miracle and Flash. Flash is the little one. She's my sister-in-law, Angie's dog. Miracle is Angie's partner, Mary's dog. They are the best of buddies.

Mommyhood: On Hamsters

2009-09-25T19:24:00.000-05:00

Mommyhood: On Hamsters

What's in a name?

2009-09-25T15:54:00.007-05:00

In the early 90’s, my husband and I traveled to Israel, where I met a lovely lady name Lira. We were exchanging information about our family when she asked “and what does your daughter’s name mean?” I told I really didn’t know, I had never really thought about it. She was aghast. In her culture, great care is given to name a new baby. The name’s meaning is most important as it will become part of who this person will become.

Huh, I just thought “Stefanie” was cute.

Since then, however, I have been interested in the meanings of names. One of ideas for screen printing at Rubi J’s has been suggesting instead of just the name printed on an onesie or t-shirt; also put the origin and the meaning. That’s now our most popular screen printing we do for baby gifts.

I’ve had more common names like:
MICHAEL
Origin: Hebrew
“Who is like God”

Or an unusual name like:
SHAYNAH
Origin: Yiddish
“Beautiful”

I’ve had one grandmother order 8 t-shirts in different colors with the same name/meaning on it for her first grandchild. (We grandparents are like that.)

I do my research and then have it preapproved before making the print. There has only been one time it wasn’t accepted. My friend wanted this done for her little grandnephew’s first birthday. The only meaning I could find for Brock was “Badger”. The aunt didn’t want the mother to think she thought little Brock looked like a badger; and since the parents didn’t attend the University of Wisconsin, we drop the name/meaning thing and went with the look of a football jersey.

One of the prettiest ones I did was:
MARISA
Origin: Latin
“Of the sea”
Doesn’t the name Marisa flow like water? Perfect.

By the way, the name Stefanie means “crowned one”. Very appropriate.