So why buy hand crafted?

I chose to support small business for many reasons, first and foremost to support my fellow artisan, and then to ensure ethical and moral means are taken to create the products I chose to buy.

Take for example chocolate...

I am a fiend for the sweet stuff and I was elated when I found so many wonderful artisans offering it on HC.

This year, I treated my family to Easter baskets filled with hand made goodies from Simply Heaven Lollipop Shoppe - just because it was a tasty, special treat. It was a bit pricier than store bought mass produced candy, but somehow it seemed worth it.

And then I read this article about human trafficking and a giant in the chocolate industry and I know I made the right decision.

This year I know for a fact that no child slave labor was used to produce my family's celebration and it offers me a unique peace of mind and reminds me why I continue to take this path.

We all know that Chocolate is only the tip of the exploitation ice berg created by big business, many of us are simply unaware of their practices. By supporting a small craftsman/woman, you are making a commitment to the Earth and all of mankind that you seek the right options and make the right choices.

Count your blessings!

It occurred to me today that I am very blessed and fortunate to have discovered Hyena Cart, an on-line community devoted to hand crafted and Earth-friendly items.

It's amazing to me how much I have shifted my buying habits since I discovered this fabulous group of vendors.

It has been months since I "Had to" go to my local Megalomart for:

- Diapers
- Wipes
- Soap
- Hygiene Supplies
- Clothing
- Toys
- Candy
- Paper Towels
- Tea or Coffee

I truly appreciate having the option of supporting my fellow man instead of the giant corporations. It's nice to know that someone lovingly crafted an item instead of it being subjected to the mass production process - a process that allows for too many dangerous mishaps (as evidenced by the many recalls).

That being said - it's also an awesome, loving community unlike any other I've encountered. It's policy to keep it positive - there is no snark or negativity that can make so many other on-line ventures feel hostile to the new member.

If you have never visited HC, please do!
You may also be in for a mildly life altering experience. :)