I have been thinking of writing up this message since the past couple of months.....been putting it off due to various reasons as to one reason is that I am busy!!

Today after work I had a stroll through 'The Body Shop' (my favourite shop coz everything is made from natural ingredients and its against animal testing). By the way they sell soaps, facial scrubs, moisturisers, scented candles, scented oils etc all made from natural ingredients picked from Asia and Africa. None of these products are tested on animals which is amazing, being natural could be one of the reasons, thus saving those poor creatures.

(A word of thanks to the founder of The Body Shop- Dame Anita Roddick, her work has inspired me in many ways. Her Community trade initiatives has struck me the most, helping livelihoods across several countries in Asia and Africa. I would say she is the founder of ethical consumerism, she started her work in the 70's which was not of much concern like it is today. Unfortunately she is not with us today, she died on the 10th of Sept 2007, she suffered a major brain haemorrhage which took her away from us. But her work has and will inspire many of us in the years to come).

So back to my stroll at The Body Shop........I came across this cloth cotton bag with a tag saying 'Teddy Exports- Community Trade Supplier in Southern India'. I picked it up as I have an unknown craze for cotton and canvas bags, and I picked up some usual purchases which is scented oils and candles. I was told at the checkout that 1.40% of the price would go back to the community where they manufacture these bags. The money would be proceeding to a charity working for vulnerable children.

I am so delighted today.....that I did something. I came home and did my cat walk in front of the mirror with my cotton cloth bag from South India. I feel so proud and pure holding that bag......You must be wondering......has elamor gone nuts????!!!!!

so how many of you would support community traded products? let's DO IT!