Green Eyed Blog

Radio interview about the Postal strike

2009-08-10T14:48:00.008+01:00

Being a web based business we totally rely on the good old Royal Mail to send out our goods. The upcoming postal strikes in our region do give us some cause for concern - during the last strikes around 2007 we were forced to use a courier which obviously cost us more. Since then service has been OK but it all seems to be happening again.

The local radio (Heart) are aware that we exist and sometimes call us for our perspective on issues affecting small local businesses so we had a visit from Jade (not Chis Moyles to the kids disappointment) for a short interview. Rachel did well - how much of my mumbling they actually broadcast we will see!

Red Top Fly traps on Tour

2009-08-05T21:44:00.008+01:00

We've just come back from a week in Portugal which was a great, relaxing and peaceful break for us both and the children, (ignoring Ryanair's part in this). We stayed at a great chalet in the mountains in Alombada, central Portugal.

We found the place because last year they had bought some of our red top fly traps as they did again this year. Not one to miss an advertising opportunity we took a picture too!

Each year we get more and more enquiries for traps from the continent, last year is was mostly from France - and mostly 'referred by a friend' - and this year we have had a few enquires from Spain.

Happy birthday

2009-05-28T10:18:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday to me!

Really should post something ...

2009-05-06T22:12:00.001+01:00

I really need to post something on the blog... severe case of bloggers block...

We can still get to work...

2009-02-02T09:47:00.002Z

Woke this morning to a couple of inches of snow. Although this means a day off work to most, when you work at home there is no such luck.

It's 2009...

2009-01-04T16:32:00.000Z

Just a quick post to say a very belated Happy New Year to all our customers, old and new (quite a few return too so we must be doing something right!).

Product of the Month - December

2008-11-22T15:40:00.004Z

Christmas is almost here and so our product of the month for December has to be the beautiful, hand made, organic cotton Christmas Stockings that are fairly traded and made in India. For only £6.99 they are a stunning stocking for Santa to fill on Christmas Eve. They are generous in size and will fit quite a few pressies in for the kids. If you want something even bigger why not try our Christmas Sack which is also organic and fairly traded.

Product of the month - November

2008-11-02T11:30:00.000Z

Yes, its nearly Christmas and at Green Eyed Frog we have all our Christmas goodies now in stock. There are some beautiful fair trade Christmas garlands and Christmas Tree decorations made from banana palm leaves. These were very popular last year so buy early to avoid disappointment. New in this year we have some little toy Santas in a pouch made in India from Fair Trade organic cotton - so cute and cuddly!

American Express now accepted

2008-10-12T14:42:00.002+01:00

After adding a payment by paypal option last month (and it been used by quite a few people) - we've now added the option to pay by American Express. Although we didn't expect it to be used very much we were wrong as it has!

Seals spotted on the Mundesley coast

2008-09-22T22:29:00.007+01:00

On Sunday, when we were at the Norfolk Cottage, we decided to go for an early morning walk. The weather was hot and hazy, better than most days in August. The sea was calm and there was a deep layer of golden sand. I saw something black bobbing up and down in the water a few yards from the beach and thought it might be a seal. Told the family and we all looked in the water. Again we saw the seal come up for air, look around as if to say hello and then swim on. We followed it along the beach and just as we were about to turn back it stopped directly opposite us to pose for a photo. It was an amazing sight, we had never seen seals in the wild before and it seemed so tame. Next time we visit we will remember to take the binoculars!

Product of the Month - September

2008-09-02T22:14:00.002+01:00

The Product of the month for September is the Red Football wind-up radio. We tested these on the children when we went camping and they were a real favourite. Our daughter thinks the Pink Hearts wind-up radio is so cool and now all her friends want one...

They are ideal Christmas Stocking fillers and will keep the kids amused for hours and they will never keep pestering you for batteries.

What makes these radios even more Eco is the packaging. No plastic in sight - just 100% recycled biodegradable paper and cardboard.

Product of the month - August

2008-08-03T19:20:00.000+01:00

The product of the month for August is the Recycled Plastic Wall Clock, one of our new UK designed and crafted clocks made from recycled vending machine plastic cups. The clock makes a great gift for wedding, birthday or Christmas. We have one of the tide clocks hanging up in our Norfolk Holiday Cottage so that we can tell when the tide is out and go down for a walk on the beach and even have a paddle if its not raining...

Product of the month - July

2008-07-02T21:59:00.006+01:00

The Product of the Month for July is the Sarah Smith Beach Bag. A new product from Green Eyed Frog, this bag is a real winner and seems to hold almost everything! A pretty blue and white floral print design made from fair trade certified cotton. What I like about this bag is that it looks good on the beach and for shopping, you can fit loads in it and it washes up a treat. We have used it on the beach and managed to fit in two blankets, a towel, change of clothes for the little one, flask, sun cream and umbrella and there was still plenty of room...

Summer Days!

2008-06-14T16:24:00.005+01:00

Well we all know that Summer is just round the corner and we are looking forward to those hot Summer evenings sitting outside on the patio enjoying a glass of wine. To savour the moment for even longer why not try one of our new products, the Sun Jar, providing a soft light for those hot balmy evenings. Sunshine is stored up during the day via a solar panel and rechargable battery which then powers the three LED lamps inside the jar. The light is diffused by the frosted jar and gives the appearance of sunlight. Available in blue or orange, the Sun Jars were winners of the Gift of the Year award for 2007.

Product of the Month - June

2008-06-07T16:22:00.000+01:00

Products of the month for June are the Fair Trade flower seeds, grown in South Africa and packaged in Suffolk. A lovely collection of seeds which can be planted from June onwards in the garden. Drought tolerant and easy to grow, this gorgeous blue four petalled flower is a fast germinator and looks good in the border, window boxes or containers. You can also buy this as a gift set with the popular Paper Potter and a jute gift bag.

We now accept PayPal

2008-06-05T19:30:00.002+01:00

At Green Eyed Frog we know that some people prefer to pay by PayPal so we have just introduced this as a new method of payment. Just select the PayPal option during payment and off you go.

Product of the Month - May

2008-05-18T21:45:00.002+01:00

May's product of the month is our new organic cotton fold-up shopping bag, fairly traded and made in India. This great little bag folds up into itself and poppers together. The bag has on one side a printed design of the cotton plant and when folded organic cotton printed on the side. The bag has a gussett along the bottom and sides making it extra strong and spacious. At only £3.65 this bag is an essential item for your home.

Product of the month - April

2008-04-03T16:16:00.003+01:00

Green Eyed Frog's Product of the month for April is the Eco Red Top Fly Trap. Although its been a cold April and we even had snow at Easter its about the right time of the year to order the non toxic Fly Traps so that when Summer comes and you are sitting on the patio, you are free of flies and can sit in peace (apart from the children of course but we don't sell traps for them!).

Last year saw a fabulously hot April and we were in shirt sleeves on the beach. When the warmer weather arrives the summer insects start to wake up including flies. Orders for Red Top Fly Traps have already started to increase and are very popular with expats in France especially those who have small-holdings.

This unique product from South Africa is both safe and practical and can be used outside in the garden or on the farm. A non-toxic protein based bait is used to lure female flies via a turret into a 3 litre trap. By controlling the female, the entire fly population in the area can be brought under control. Each pack contains: 1 x fly trap, powdered flybait and full instructions. It will last approximately 6 to 8 weeks. The contents can then be tipped onto the compost and the plastic recycled.This is a wonderful product and really does work and will save you a fortune on fly spray.

The trap sits outside in the garden and catches female flies thus reducing the fly population in and around your house. If you haven't already tried one of these take a look at the Fly Trap on Green Eyed Frog.

End of Year Stock Take

2008-03-30T14:03:00.007+01:00

At Green Eyed Frog we are doing our end of Year Stock Take today so please bear with us.

My son has been roped in to help with a bribe of extra pocket money but he doesn't yet know how much - I've told him it depends how hard he works... As he only has an attention span of a fly it won't be much! He is at that age when you only get a few grunts every so often and his favourite phrase is "its so booooring" - he even has the T-shirt. Apparently they all go through this phase which lasts approximately 2 to 3 years and seems to be a boy thing.

The joys of Parenthood...

Dreaming of a White Easter?

2008-03-24T21:48:00.003Z

I didn't think that we would get so much snow at Easter. We have been spending the Easter Break on the North Norfolk coast at the Cottage, getting things ready for the start of the holiday letting season. Its been snowing non stop for three days now and the children absolutely love it. We now have 3 snowmen in the garden and 3 very excited children. Our youngest has not seen snow like this before and has been rolling around in it.

There was even snow on the beach, although when I tried to take a walk the other day I was nearly blown away and had to make a hasty retreat.

We have yet to see what tomorrow will bring but the children are hoping for another white morning with more snowmen to build.

Product of the Month - March

2008-03-03T23:06:00.003Z

March's product of the month has to be the Paper Potter Gift Set. Its nearly Easter and everything is growing in the garden. Its the ideal time to start making your own seedling pots out of old newspapers with the wooden Paper Potter. This lovely gift set includes a pack of Fair Trade flower seeds grown in South Africa and presented in a jute drawstring bag.

Organic Toiletries for Mothers Day

2008-02-20T20:46:00.005Z

Mothers Day is just round the corner and isn't it early this year?

We have a wonderful new collection of organic toiletries that would make an ideal gift for any mum or grandma. Our Kristin Bailey Collection offers an organic range which is kind to your body and the environment, uses the highest quality ingredients and our organic soap is even finished by hand. In addition, many of the ingredients are sourced from community projects in developing countries.

At Green Eyed Frog we offer the choice of:

Sweet orange and ginger soap which smells divine;
Wild Honey & Lemon Soothing Bath Essence to soften the skin and sweeten your mood;

Lime & Grapefruit Energising Body Wash with a tangy, refreshing aroma.

Why not give someone you love an organic toiletries treat and team it up with our lovely selection of jute bags.

Bed Linen & Towel Sale

2008-02-06T14:43:00.000Z

Check out our bed linen and towel SALE. We have limited stock remaining of bedlinen before the new Fair Trade shipment arrives in a few weeks. Our supplier for the lovely organic towels has now stopped trading so we have just a few left in stock at discount prices. New stock from Gossypium will be arriving soon.

Organic Cotton Bath Sheet now only £15.

Product of the Month - February

2008-02-03T22:11:00.000Z

February's product of the month is the Simply Soaps Organic Toiletries Gift Box - Romance. Valentine's Day is soon approaching and this lovely gift box of organic goodies is just the job.

A real treat in organic decadent luxury for the one you love. One hand made soap bar; relaxing bath oil and hand made bath salts all presented in an attractive recycled cardboard giftbox. Only natural and organic ingredients are used.

These lovely boxes are made in the wilds of rural Norfolk and are priced very modestly at £11.99.

What is the difference between hessian and jute?

2008-01-25T09:08:00.001Z

A customer contacted me recently and asked for some hessian bags. As a child growing up on a farm, my father used hessian sacks for the wheat and barley and animal feed. So I thought I needed to find out more...

According to Wikipedia the term Hessian or Brurlap in the US, refers to the use of a coarse woven fabric for soldiers uniforms in the German state of Hesse. It is usually made from jute or hemp and allied vegetable fibres and often used to make sacks and bags to ship goods like coffee breans. It is breathable and thus resists condensation and associated spoilage of the contents. It is also durable enough to withstand rough handling in transit.

Wikipedia goes on to say that Jute is a ligno-cellulosic fibre that is partially a textile fibre and partially wood. The fibres are off-white to brown, and 1–4 meters (3–12 feet) long and often called hessian. Jute fabrics are also called hessian cloth and jute sacks are called gunny bags in some European countries.

So after reading all about it - A jute bag is the same as a hessian bag, burlap bag or a gunny bag.

Jute Shoppers - Long Handles

2008-01-23T08:56:00.000Z

Our latest new bag has just arrived and is now in stock. These jute shopping bags are so popular I decided that I would try the long handled version. Its great for taking to the shops, folds up small and can be worn over your shoulder. They are only £2.99 and are fairly traded from India.

Where are my Playbus cookies Mummy?

2008-01-18T00:07:00.000Z

Went into the local Coop yesterday and found some organic, fair trade chocolate chips. Great, exactly what I need to bake the cookies for Little Darling's birthday treat on the Playbus. This had already been postponed from last week due to bus problems so I had no excuse.

At 11pm last night went to the fridge, after fighting with the Tax Return, to find that it had no eggs. Oh dear, I couldn't make his choc chip cookies - hopefully he will have forgotten by the morning and mummy can go and buy some.

Little Darling was up early at 7:30, a miracle for him. Where are my Playbus cookies mummy? Mummy felt really guilty and assured him that they would be there for snack time. After dropping him off at Playbus poor mummy rushed to the local farm to get eggs, rushed home, made cookies, put them in the oven and packed up the orders to take to the Post Office - all in record time and arrived at the bus just in time for snack.

Little Darling after wolfing down choc chip cookies and chocolate crispies brought in by another birthday boys frantic mum, was then sick in the soft play centre on the bus. Poor Mrs Playleader then had to clear it up. I decided to make a quick exit with Little Darling in tow!

The Dreaded Tax Return...

2008-01-16T22:30:00.000Z

If only I had done it earlier and not left it until the last minute. Why do they make Tax Returns so difficult to understand. I have even been on two courses at our local Tax Office and its still clear as mud. Fortunately I just send the accounts off to our accountant and he comes up with some magical figures.
And then its the VAT return to do...

Why is running a business so difficult sometimes?

Product of the Month - January

2008-01-07T22:10:00.000Z

January's product of the month is the bamboo handled recycling storage bag. In January we pack away the Christmas decorations, childrens toys and have a general tidy up after the Christmas and New Year festivities. These jute storage bags are just the job.

They provide a practical storage solution and are made from jute, lined with polyethylene and have strong bamboo handles. They will hold up to a months worth of newspapers or a floor full of toys! Attractive enough to keep in any room in the house. Versatile, durable, cost effective and completely bio-degradable, there is little to rival jute.

We also use the bags for storing vegetables, the weekly shop (you can fit a couple in a shopping trolley) and for taking the parcels to the post office. I'm sure there are lots of other uses too such as carrying laundry, storing clothes etc.

A break at the North Norfolk Coast

2008-01-04T20:30:00.000Z

We are now at the cottage in Mundesley, North Norfolk having a welcome relaxing break after the hectic Christmas rush. The weather is lovely and, although cold, we have been for some bracing walks along the sandy beach. The children have been looking for shells and drift wood and we even managed to drag the 10 year old away from SKY TVs 24 hour Simpsons.

Paul and I have also been tidying, cleaning and working in the garden in readiness for the next guests. I started cleaning the oven and at first thought it wasn't too bad but after 3 hours of scrubbing gave up exhausted. Thats the problem when you don't use chemicals, its takes a lot of elbow grease. If any one knows of an oven cleaner that is ECO please let me know!

Rachel

Product of the Month - December

2007-12-19T20:25:00.000Z

Thought I would start a Product of the month to link in with our featured products on the web site.

December is the Paper Potter. This ingenius little garden tool can make small seedling pots out of newspaper in a matter of minutes. Its a great gift for Grandad and will keep them amused Christmas afternoon before falling asleep in the chair. Any newspaper can be used however the tabloids are more colourful! Its been a popular line in the shop this year. Just fold strips of newspaper round the wooden former and then push into the little cup. Hey Presto - you have a little pot.

Its Time for a Break!

2007-12-19T20:20:00.000Z

Wow, its been so busy for the past 6 weeks that I haven't been able to do anything other than pack orders - it seems like 24/7. My husband Paul and my friend Claire have been a great help with the orders and now its time for a break. Our last posting date for Christmas delivery is tomorrow so its now slowing down and not so manic.

Thanks to all Green Eyed Frog customers and I hope you visit again in the New Year.

Rachel
xx

Bad Back

2007-11-09T17:10:00.000Z

I have been suffering from a bad back and its been agony. Probably caused by the car accident I had a couple of weeks ago. It seems to have got worse after the birth of each of my three children and the youngest was a big baby.

Green Eyed Frog has been handed over to Paul, my husband, who I'm sure is managing fine... until I can sit at the computer for longer than 20 minutes. I wonder what I will find in the stock room when I get back on my feet!

Rachel

School Holidays - Kids activities that don't cost the earth.

2007-07-24T10:54:00.000+01:00

Its only the second day of the School Holidays and what bliss. No more getting up at 7am to get breakfast, sort out drinks bottles, make sure the book bag has the right book in it and of course drive to the school and try to find a parking space. Its been quite peaceful in the Green Eyed Frog house in the early mornings. I have been getting up at a leisurely 8am hung washing out and doing over an hours work before the children even appear at 10am. I just get too tired in the evenings trying to fit all the household chores in, ironing for the cottage and catching up on voluntary work.

I have some ideas of things I'm going to do with the children that won't cost a fortune, are educational and hopefully they will enjoy!

Nature Trails
Take the children on walking trips in the town or country. We will be exploring the footpaths in our village. Now that my youngest is three he can hopefully walk for long enough before getting bored or tired. A list of things we will be taking:

Binoculars - for looking at the local wildlife and identifying birds. My eldest son thought he saw an Eagle in the garden the other week!
Usbourne spotters guides
Very handy little books on wildflowers, wild birds and insects
Digital Camera
For taking photos of the bugs and creatures we may see
Notebook and Pencils
For drawing the insects and flowers and writing notes about them
Blanket
For mummy to sit on
Water bottles

This all sounds very nice doesn't it but we have yet to go on our nature trail as its been raining too much. I'll let you know how it goes.

Rain, Rain go Away

2007-07-15T11:30:00.000+01:00

Its been raining for so many weeks now and the flooding keeps getting worse. I wonder just how much of this can be attributed to climate change and global warming. Fortunately, in Suffolk we have been OK. Green Eyed Frog and family live on a high plateau which has been earmarked for a windfarm closeby so I know that the only flooding we are likely to get is localised on the roads as the water runs off the fields. I feel so sorry for the people who have lost their homes and possessions, I just hope that the water will soon subside and people can get back to normal and start repairing the damage.

Our cottage in Mundesley, North Norfolk, is close to a Beck and small stream. When it rains the water follows a path down the side of the house into the ditch at the bottom of the garden. Our holiday makers are having a very wet but enjoyable break at least they can still hook up to the internet and read the blogs!

A break between the rain at the beach in Mundesley!

Green Eyed Frog in Sunday Mirror

2007-07-08T20:00:00.000+01:00

A few weeks ago the Sunday Mirror asked for some photos of our organic cotton string bags. We queued up for our copy of the newspaper the following Sunday but no bags were mentioned. Today we have had a growing number of orders for bags and have since found out that Green Eyed Frog were in todays Sunday Mirror. If anyone out there has a copy of the Sunday supplement with the 'bag' page please can you send it to me or scan and email across.

The first copy I receive will get a FREE string bag! (remember to include your contact details).

Eco Pre-School Awarded nearly £300,000

2007-06-25T20:30:00.000+01:00

Fantastic News, we heard today that the local Pre-School I am involved with has been successful in £300,000 of funding to build a new, bespoke Eco building on the grounds of the Primary School. We are all over the moon and looking forward to being in our new building soon. Its taken over ten years to get this far. I'm looking forward to seeing the grass roof grow and attract wildlife, for the hemp walls to take shape and for our solar generated hot water and electricity.

I'm also hoping that I will be able to use the facilities for after school care for the children so that I can then get the opportunity to go on some of the 'green' Trade Fairs and conferences and maybe do some more training.

Working from Home and Being a Mum

2007-05-18T16:25:00.000+01:00

My 3 year old son has been suffering badly from chicken pox all week so we have been confined to the house. There has been no swimming, no PlayBus and no Pre-School, even the garden has been out of bounds because its been so wet. Consequently, boredom has set in because mummy spends too much time on the computer sending emails, preparing orders and doing voluntary work trying to "make a difference" to the environment.

During a brief lapse of concentration after making lunch, I forgot to lock the fridge door! If you have normal, well behaved children this wouldn't be a problem however while I was busy trying to concentrate on working out 17.5% of 100 in a spreadsheet that wouldn't add up my darling child was raiding the fridge. He ran into the office, a huge grin on his face and yoghurt all over his hands and face. Forgetting the spreadsheet and instantly jumping up, I ran into the living room (maybe this has happened before) to discover pink Thomas Tank Engine yoghurt had been carefully spooned out of 8 pots and smeared all over the sofa and cushions. The cover is now in the wash and I hope it dries before mother-in-law comes over tomorrow to babysit!

Its not easy being a mum and working from home!

I later had to collect the children from school accompanied by a small child with a spotty face and pink yoghurt all over him. Fortunately it looked just like calamine lotion so not too many strange looks...

Eco Party Bags

2007-04-24T23:58:00.000+01:00

Don't you get fed up with all the plastic tat that your children bring home from parties? I started using recycled brown paper bags a few years ago and get the children to decorate and write their names on them. I've just found some fantastic party bags for Green Eyed Frog which are made from jute and of course will last for ever. They are a lovely, longlasting gift to take away from a party.

Ideas for filling your eco party bags:

The cake - of course

Organic fruit bar

Box of raisons

Organic, fairtrade chocolate treat

Recycled pencil or pen

Rubber eraser

Beware - some children however, don't take too kindly to finding organic fruit bars and raisons in their party bags and some may start to cry if they don't have an unhealthy sweet or two so you may have to slip a few of these in just to avoid the tears!

Ditch the Plastic - Use your own Shopping Bags

2007-04-16T13:51:00.000+01:00

Some supermarkets are encouraging customers to use cloth bags for shopping. At Green Eyed Frog we have a selection of Eco Shopping bags which will help you gain extra points if you shop at Tesco but are really handy to keep in the car, handbag or coat pocket. You can try the organic, fair trade cotton coloured string bags made in India using natural pigments or the jute every day shopper. I use the recycling bags with bamboo handles. You can fit two or three of these in the trolley and are easy to transport into the car. I also use them to take my orders to the Post Office - it just makes life easier.

Help prevent marine pollution. Turtles are mistaking upturned plastic bags for their favourite food, jellyfish, with deadly results. By reducing the amount of plastic bags you can help the environment - Say No to Plastic!

New Eco Pre-School Nursery

2007-04-09T15:51:00.000+01:00

As Chair of the local Pre-School in Stonham Aspal I have been helping to plan for a new Eco building for the children and staff, to be located on the grounds of the Primary school nearby. Committees have been working on this project for over 15 years and now with an Eco twist we hope to win the hearts and pockets of funders.

The Pre-School has been running for over 25 years in temporary accomodation at the local village hall. A new building will be safer for the children and provide facilities for those with special educational needs. It will be a true sustainable Eco building with rain water harvesting, grass roof, solar panels for water heating and electricity and a biomass heating system.

We are all hoping that this will be the last time that committees will need to go through this time consuming and lengthy project and hope that next year children will be playing in their purpose built contemporary eco haven. Our award winning architects Ralf and Meredith at StudioMGM have been very patient and even more patient as it has taken nearly two years to get to the planning stage but we hope that there is now light at the end of the tunnel.

Get Rid of Flies the Eco Way

2007-04-08T20:34:00.000+01:00

I saw my first fly in the house today and its only the beginning of April. This warm weather is starting to wake up the summer insects. We have also seen butterflies and bumblebees in the garden.

Orders for Red Top Fly Traps have started to increase and I am already on my second shipment from the supplier this year. The Red Top Fly Catcher is an Eco friendly way to get rid of flies without the use of pesticides and chemicals sprayed around the house. The trap sits outside in the garden and catches female flies thus reducing the fly population in and around your house. If you haven't already tried one of these take a look at the Fly Trap on Green Eyed Frog.

Wash Clothes the Eco Way

2007-03-26T12:33:00.000+01:00

I hope your washing is now hanging on the line in this lovely Spring sunny weather we are enjoying? If you haven't already been converted to Eco washing powder then why not give it a go? I have used Ecover, ClearSpring amongst others but have now discovered an ingenius natural product called soap nuts.

Soap Nuts are THE eco washing detergent grown on trees for use in washing machines and dish washers. Environmentally friendly, sustainably produced, bio-degradable and compostable. Harvested from the Soapnut tree, the nuts contain the active natural washing ingredient saponin. Similar to soap, when the shells of the soapnut come in to contact with water, the saponin is released and suds are produced.

If you fancy giving them a try Green Eyed Frog sell a cotton gift set containing 250g of soap nuts plus a small cotton bag to use in the washing machine.

Mummy, I Prefer Shop Pizza!

2007-03-14T00:29:00.000Z

"Mummy, is it shop pizza?" the children ask when I tell them we have pizza for dinner.

"No, its mummy's pizza" I reply.

"Oh no, why do we have to have your pizza, we like shop pizza" they say.

Mummy now gets annoyed and says in a high pitched voice "mummy's pizza is good for you and much nicer because its made from organic wholemeal flour, organic cheese & mushrooms and vegetables from the garden - and I have just spent AN HOUR IN THE KITCHEN MAKING IT"

"Mummy, is it shop pizza?" the three year old pipes in.

Mummy puts the food on the table and says eat it or go without...

What do you do when they say this, its so frustrating? Good food with organic ingredients made with love is far better than a frozen shrink wrapped wilted thing from the supermarket but they are not convinced and think I'm a horrible mummy for making them eat such nasty food!
If you would like my recipe for pizza just ask...

Spring is in the Air

2007-03-11T12:29:00.000Z

I love this time of year, you know that winter is now over as the daffodils start blooming and everything comes alive in the garden. We have been busy with the vegetable plot and released some of the worms from the wormery to hopefully make even better soil for next year. We have still got leeks in the garden and yesterday had the last of the carrots from last year. I baked a lovely spinach flan using our own spinach from the garden and local free range eggs from the farm. I think its going to be leek and potato pie for dinner today!

Green Eyed Frog has some new additions in the form of fair trade flower seeds from South Africa. We are looking forward to planting these later on in the year. We have also put together a lovely gift for Spring - the Paper Potter Gift Set which includes a packet of seeds, jute bag and the popular wooden paper potter. You can then make your own seedling pots from newspaper and plant the seeds in the greenhouse or windowsill before going outside.

Observer Ethical Awards 2007

2007-02-12T19:08:00.000Z

Vote now for your best on-line retailer for 2007 in the Observer Ethical Awards 2007 sponsored by Ecover http://observer.guardian.co.uk/ethicalawards

There are many other categories and the voting screen will take you through the list.

I would love you to vote for Green Eyed Frog but you can vote for any on-line ethical retailer or local store.

Deadline is 2nd March 2007 so get voting now and support us all.

Snowy Suffolk

2007-02-08T10:43:00.000Z

I woke up this morning to find a light frost, had a shower and then looked out of the window and there was an inch of snow. I didn't think my shower was that long I should get one of those timers...

Schools are closed so the children are happy and our WEETU course has been cancelled so I'm not going to the Post Office today to dispatch orders.

As a child I remember 6ft snow drifts and my Dad getting the tractor out to make a path to the road (we lived on a farm). Even in the bad weather we still managed to get to school unless it was really icey and cold when the diesel froze in the school bus. There was a very steep hill into the village which caused major problems with the old school bus so we were all very happy children when we heard that it just couldn't reach the top!

These days, due to climate change and mans impact on the environment it rarely snows and just an inch of snow results in school closures. It does seem sad that society today has changed so much since I was a child. Although health & safety is important it can take the enjoyment of life away, the risk. We wrap our children up in cotton wool and then expect them to survive in the real world when they leave school.

Must go children calling, said I would bake biscuits...

Carbon OffSetting...

2007-02-02T00:10:00.000Z

Carbon OffSetting seem to be the buzz words at the moment however I find it very hard to accept the reasoning behind it. So you can still take your foreign long haul holidays each year to Florida adding to the pollution and conjestion in the sky but ease your conscience by planting a few trees? Surely the answer would be NOT to travel to distant countries in the first place and take your holidays in our own lovely country thus creating jobs in tourism in the UK and boosting the economy. This is a far 'greener' option or am I missing the point...

For a UK only holiday in our beautiful county of Norfolk with clean beaches, good food & pubs check out our own Royal Cottage in Mundesley

Eco & Green - Valentine Gifts

2007-01-12T11:30:00.000Z

Its not long now until the 14th of February and of course the huge mountain of cards coming through the door. Ahhh. those were the days... Have you thought about making your own card out of recycled paper or opt for an eco gift like the recycled jewellery and cuff links from Green Eyed Frog.

There are lots of gifts that don't cost the earth, are kind to the environment and your pocket so why not check out the latest romantic offerings from Green Eyed Frog.

Full Circle WEETU Training Program

2007-01-09T13:45:00.000Z

I've just started a certified (Open College Network) business course just for women, the first in Suffolk, run by WEETU (Womens Employment and Training Unit) and funded by the European Development Agency (EEDA). Its going really well and is designed for women who want to start up in business especially those who have families. I've met a really great bunch of women on the course and we are learning so much by talking to each other and sharing experiences.

The course is fully funded and includes childcare expenses for under 5's which is ideal for me. If you are a woman and thinking of setting up your own business I would recommend finding out if this program is in your area.

Next week we start the marketing session so I'm hoping to pick up some handy hints for Green Eyed Frog and Royal Cottage.

New Greener Year Resolution

2007-01-05T10:46:00.000Z

In the Green Eyed Frog household we all try to be a little bit greener each year. This year we have decided to grow more veg and fruit in the garden, make more jams & pickle and do more batch baking/cooking for the freezer.

Personally I am really going to try and buy all my clothes secondhand. I used to get quite a lot from ebay but prefer to see what I'm buying so now that my youngest child is at pre-school a couple of mornings a week I can take the opportunity to do a bit of retail therapy. Should really be working on these precious mornings but rewards are just as good!

Did you know that the Sue Ryder Shops do loyalty cards with discounts and money off so thats my first stop. There are some really first class charity shops round here with good quality clothes with a far better choice than the high street stores. So why not give it a go...

Green Eyed Frog January Sale

2007-01-01T09:30:00.000Z

Check out our January Sale which starts today 1st January and ends 31st. Lots of bargains on bedlinen plus gifts for all the family.

Christmas at the Cottage

2006-12-28T09:51:00.000Z

We're spending a few days at the Cottage in Mundesley, North Norfolk between visitors. Painting, fixing up the garden and trying to control three excited children...

Now that we have broadband here its easy to check email and orders from Green Eyed Frog and to update the blog!

We have considered eco building technologies at the cottage and have just installed a new energy efficient boiler, new windows and use electric and gas from a 'green' supplier but its a Victorian terrace cottage and we are limited by its age and size. We encourage visitors to recycle and take their bottles to the bottle bank. Also thinking about getting a wormery for the garden so the children can 'feed' the worms.

Visitors at the cottage certainly enjoy and comment on the organic bedlinen, towels and bathrobes. They also have full use of wi-fi broadband, Sky and organic toiletries. We also make sure that all cleaning and laundry products are eco-friendly and use Ecover, Faith in Nature and Clear Spring.

Back to work now painting the landing...

Top Eleven Tips for a RRR Really Eco Christmas

2006-12-20T15:06:00.000Z

Below are some of the things we do at home...

Reuse last years Christmas cards to make gift tags - the children love helping with this one.
Reuse last years Christmas Cards to make new cards for this year. Just cut up with fancy scissors and stick on recycled card.
Use Eco Christmas decorations and get rid of all the plastic tinsel tatt. Collect pine cones and paint with gold and silver paint. Bake Christmas biscuits to hang on the tree instead of chocolates. Use Green Eyed Frogs Fair Trade, Eco Christmas garlands and tree decorations.
Make your own mincemeat and bake mince pies. We use vegetarian suet and organic fruit.
Make your own sausage rolls. Our vegetarian Bible is Rose Elliots Complete Vegetarian Cookbook - a must have if you prefer healthy eating to processed food from supermarkets...
Buy a native, local Christmas Tree which is rooted in a pot you can then take it outside after Christmas, plant it in the garden and dig it up for next year.
For the Christmas lights use LED type instead of the older style bulb filaments as they are cheaper to run and don't keep blowing.
Buy a free range, non GM turkey or bird. Check the farm out beforehand and talk to local people. Organic turkeys can be ordered on line eg www.redopollmeats.co.uk one of our local suppliers.
Buy local, in season organic veg, use your local box scheme or even better grow your own. We have carrots, leaks, celeriac, onions raspberries and apples from our garden this Christmas.
Buy your children, friends & family gifts from second hand shops. Some will appreciate it although some will not! "Are we bothered!!"
Don't spend a fortune on that little black number for the office Christmas party just visit your local charity shops and you will certainly find a far better outfit for far less.

Just try to relax at Christmas, don't get sucked into the ultra consumerism of it all. If the turkey isn't ready on time does it matter, eat later and enjoy more festiver pre-dinner drinks.

Recycled Packaging

2006-12-10T19:12:00.000Z

At Green Eyed Frog 90% of our packaging is reused and recycled. We aim to increase this to 95% but being a new company it has taken quite a few months to build up our stock of reused paper, boxes and envelopes.

Where do we get our packaging from?
The local community. Friends, neighbours in the village and surrounding villages. Local shops and businesses provide a lot of cardboard boxes and the local post office I use to send parcels provides me with a good supply of cardboard boxes. If you receive an order with Bobbys Muffins on the box, please don't be too disappointed when you open it up to find your Green Eyed Frog gift for uncle Fred. The muffins are delicious but unfortunately I don't get to eat them all before sending the box out - they are sold in our local Post Office and General Store.

If you live locally (Suffolk) and are passing this way I would love to collect your unwanted packing material, boxes, paper etc. Please contact Green Eyed Frog for more details on rachel.turner@greeneyedfrog.co.uk

Dreaming of a Green Christmas

2006-11-28T19:07:00.000Z

In this age of consumerism, especially at Christmas, there is constant pressure on the High Street to buy more things to throw away using more resources and energy. There are alternatives out there that don’t destroy the planet or your finances and give consumers a choice. For the individualist with a green conscience this Christmas who can think of a better way to spend your money than on eco, organic, fair trade and recycled gifts.

Don’t give your hard-earned cash to unethical brands, check out Green Eyed Frog for sustainable present ideas. We specialise in gifts for children and baby including blankets, wooden toys, solar and brick construction sets. For adults why not browse the homeware, garden, gadgets, jewellery and organic toiletry departments to find that special gift. For the personal touch a bespoke gift wrap service is available.

Our web site is not just an on-line shop but has been designed to raise awareness, educate and inform. Product research and testing has taken place by our family ‘team’ of three young children, parents, grandparents, friends and neighbours to present a collection of quality products that customers will enjoy.
“If we don’t use the product ourselves why should you?”

Power Out

2006-11-20T23:48:00.000Z

We've got no electricity all day tomorrow while the power lines are switched off for tree cutting. When living in the country this does happen every so often but hopefully it will mean less power cuts in the winter. So I can't do any work... What a shame - going to Mother in laws with the baby as it might get cold in the house without the heating on.

If you do try and call during the day I wil pick up messages in the evening once we are back on line.

Courier Service or Local Post Office

2006-11-12T20:35:00.000Z

I am often asked why we don't use a courier. There are several reasons but the main one being that Green Eyed Frog is a rural business and its important to support local services and other businesses which includes the local post office. When you live 9 miles from the nearest supermarket you need a local shop for banking, fresh bread and to post the orders.

When Barclays closed down most of the small rural branches we were hit hard here in Suffolk and the Post Offices are all that remain of our links with the towns. My local Post Office is on route to the school where I drop the children (no affordable rural bus service for our kids but thats another posting) so I'm not going out of my way and I get to meet other local people, have a chat and find out whats what and whose who as women like to do. The rural Post Office is the hub of small villages and offers a far wider service than you find in the towns.

My local Post Office is also the general store and newsagent, they even do picture framing. They also pass on a good supply of cardboard boxes so if you wonder what Bobbys muffins are on your packaged order - they sell them in our Post Office and they are very nice although not at all organic or good for you!

A Hint of 'Green' on the Norfolk Coast

2006-11-08T23:41:00.000Z

Yesterday we finally completed the purchase of a lovely Victorian flint and brick cottage in the village of Mundesley near Cromer on the North Norfolk coast. It will be available for hire weekends, short breaks and family holidays. We have added our own hint of 'Green' by including Green Eyed Frog fair trade organic cotton bed linen and towels plus organic toiletries and a fair trade welcome tray.

Any one interested in getting away from it all in this peaceful unspoilt village check out the web site and send us an email
http://www.royalcottage.co.uk

WANTED White used Packing Paper

2006-11-01T20:00:00.000Z

I like to wrap up Green Eyed Frog orders in used white packing paper, the type you get during house moves. If any one has some they no longer need please let me know and I will arrange collection/postage.
Thanks
Rachel

New Christmas Stock Has Arrived

2006-10-19T20:48:00.000+01:00

I've been waiting for this fair trade consignment for 6 months and it was certainly worth the wait. Some fantastic organic cotton stockings and sacks and 12 foot long palm leaf garlands in red and green. There are also a variety of palm leaf Christmas Tree decorations. All these items have been made to order by a Community Workers project in Kuppam, South India set up in 1985 by Bristol based Bishopston Trading Company. We have to order stock 6 months in advance so that the workers have a continuous supply of work throughout the year and are not laid off. All items are made with care and attention to detail using organic non GM cotton.

Whats in a Name? Why Green Eyed Frog?

2006-10-16T14:03:00.000+01:00

Well, this is something I am often asked... It was my 8 year old son's idea. At the time he was into Crazy Frog songs in the charts and suggested Crazy Frog but we said oh nooooo silly boy. Then we thought about the frog theme and after several months, with help from my son, again, came up with Green Eyed Frog. It needed to be catchy, easy to remember and have a simple, reproducable logo so Green Eyed Frog was born.

A Green Eyed Frog is actually an Australia Tree Frog:
The green-eyed tree frog has adapted its appearance to blend in with the moss-covered rain forests of Queensland, Australia. The frogs' coloration and markings vary with their specific habitat, but they usually have a brownish-green body with rust-colored blotches that match the lichen-covered rocks lining the creeks and streams they tend to live near.This species gets its name not for green eyes per se, but rather for a line of brilliant green that often adorns the brow of each eye. They are also distinguishable by a row of skin flaps along their arms and legs, which resembles a serrated knife.
http://www3.nationalgeographic.com/animals/amphibians/green-eyed-tree-frog.html

Why an Eco Gift Store?

2006-10-11T19:13:00.000+01:00

Our family has for years been 'environmentally' aware and we have been active campaigners for real cloth nappies and eco buildings. We lead a somewhat different domestic life to the 'normal' family with young children but I have never been one to follow the crowds. The children wear or have worn cloth nappies, were taught from an early age how to recycle and we don't buy junk food.

Before Green Eyed Frog I found it very difficult to source affordable eco and organic products especially deodorants, toiletries and linen. I don't agree to paying a premium just because something is organic after all does the extra money you pay really go to the farmer or producer, I doubt it very much? So we decided to set up our own internet gift shop so that others could also find eco and organics goods more easily and accessibly at an affordable price...and thats how it began...

Stock Take & Special Offers

2006-10-07T18:12:00.000+01:00

Just managed to do a stock take and have decided to reduce some lines to clear some space for the Christmas stock otherwise my new shelving will be overflowing. If you get a chance, take a look at the bedlinen and organic toiletries which are on specials. http://www.greeneyedfrog.co.uk/ForHer/

Turkey or Duck Eggs

2006-10-05T19:04:00.000+01:00

Went to get some eggs from my local farm today and saw two turkeys pecking around the garden with the hens - this is what you call free range! The farmer asked if I would like some turkey eggs but I declined and took some duck eggs instead along with the usual 1/2 dozen hen eggs. Not sure whether this is just a Suffolk thing but I've never had a turkey egg don't know if any one else has?

Thats what I like about living in rural Suffolk so much choice. Bantom eggs, duck eggs and of course, for the not so adventurous like me, good old hen eggs.

New Spiel & Holz Toddler Wooden Shapes

2006-10-04T21:25:00.000+01:00

I went to collect some toddler wooden shapes today from someone I know who is selling off her toy business. Got a bit lost in the Suffolk countryside as my multimap print out in draft mode was too poor to read but found it in the end. Although I will only have 9 of these sets, they are a lovely addition to the childrens toys. There are no varnishes, paints or pigments just alder wood and some linseed oil.

The Germans are certainly years ahead of us where eco and organic products are concerned. A lot of Green Eyed Frog's products come from Germany. The quality is excellent and craftsmanship superb.

I thought that buying wooden toys for my children was far better than plastic but then I found out about the toxic paints and varnishes which can be used on some toys from China and Taiwan. Its very difficult for parents these days to know what is best for their children especially with all the media pressure to buy expensive plastic tat. Get the children watching BBC channels - they don't have adverts!!!

Dear husband

2006-10-03T19:21:00.000+01:00

The only problem working with your other half is that they don't do what you want them to when you want them to...

My husband, who is also my business partner, designed and maintains the green eyed frog web site fitting it in with other 'more important' work. He photographs new products when they come in which are then supposed to go up on the site, however sometimes the photos can sit on the camera for weeks before he gets a chance to put them up. I apologise for products listed which do not have photos this is the reason why...

When the Christmas gifts arrive I've told him to get a move on otherwise Christmas will be over by the time the photos go up. I call it motivation he calls it nagging.

It all gets done in the end and what a good job he makes (if he reads this blog!).

Deodorant Dilemma

2006-09-29T16:30:00.000+01:00

A few years ago I read an article on the WEN (Womens Environmental Network) web site about how chemicals in deodorants were found in breast cancer tumours and could be a contributing factor. With breast cancer on the increase what can you do to prevent it? Well apart from the obvious like a healthy diet and lifestyle you could have lots of children and breast feed but thats not everyone's choice. I have 3 children and breast fed for around 4 years in total but is there anything a little easier than going through childbirth three times!? I have opted for the au natural deodorant when at home ie none or if I'm going out, as a special treat for those closest to me, I wear an organic, aluminium and alcohol free brand made from Hemp oil and aloe vera.

Green Eyed Frog also sell a range for men including the Thai Deodorant stone and the Homme Stay Fresh. So... there is no need to lose friends over your choice of au natural deodorant. You can stay cool, fresh and healthy at the same time.

Eco Red Top Fly Traps

2006-09-28T21:52:00.000+01:00

It's nearly the end of the fly season and although fly traps are still selling its probably best to leave until April/May next year before putting them out again. They are really quite an amazing product. One customer I was talking to told me that she thinks they are fantastic and have solved all her fly problems on the small holding.

When we were on holiday on the Norfolk coast we didn't have any fly problems. Must just be the Suffolk country air that brings them all out or the pigs and chickens across the field maybe...

Recycled Racking

2006-09-23T20:38:00.000+01:00

We have just bought some second hand metal shelving/racking for the stock room. One of our customers http://www.selffit.co.uk is moving offices and is getting rid of some great shelves. He even delivered them for us. Very nice man. This is ideal for us as we are recycling, reusing and of course paying less than if we bought new. We are also helping him out.

Everything is now ready for the lovely organic, fair trade Christmas stockings and tree decorations and all the new linen.

Thread Count

2006-09-19T10:23:00.000+01:00

We get quite a few enquiries from customers asking detailed questions about products. One we had this week was about the thread count of one of our organic cotton bed sheets. The manufacturer was dragging their heels in answering so we had to count the threads ourselves, (vertical threads per inch plus horizontal threads per inch).

WIRE Meeting

2006-09-14T22:34:00.000+01:00

Just got back from a WIRE meeting - Women in Rural Enterprise. All good stuff, met loads of people - women only - sorry guys. Organic dairy herd selling cheese, butter and milk, another Eco campaigner Roz Gordon http://www.rozgordonphotography.co.uk and I discovered another WAHM like me making fabric bags Marshmallow Bags. Lots of empathy re children, lack of childcare in rural areas, flexible working and Thomas Tank Engine videos on all day.

SGR FM Interview

2006-09-13T23:30:00.000+01:00

Kate from SGR FM radio station came along today to do an interview on women in rural businesses. We chatted in the garden over a cup of coffee (organic, fair trade of course) about the wind-up mobile phone charger and organic deodorants. I was telling her that until I discovered the lafes and crystal deodorants I just went without - at least you get a good seat on the train that way! Its going to be on air tomorrow hopefully.

Running GEF away from home

2006-08-17T22:55:00.000+01:00

We're on holiday and still trying to run the business. Luckily, the cottage we're staying in (on the Norfolk Coast) has broadband and after reseting the router we're able to check orders.