Along the way, I wandered across these Little Humbugs

Somewhere over the rainbow

So, I've talked about this being a journey of sorts.  It wasn't originally designed to be MY journey, but it's turning out that way a bit...  and thanks for joining me for the ride!

After being a WAHM for almost only 9 months, we were really starting to feel the benefit of having me working out of our home.  The most stable of times? No, it wasn't, but despite some struggles, Josh and I set out to relaunch Dopey Kid Originals in Fall, 2008.  This time around though, the concept was to retail a much higher percentage of manufactured items and less artisan.


In the process of searching and building the selection of products we wanted to offer in our store, we came across a company we want to honour for their commitment to creativity, the environment and our social responsibility to each other. If we ever decide to offer an Inspire Award,
Little Humbgus will probably be one of the first recipients!

I discovered them by fluke through a blog I subscribe to [Fun and Funky Mommy].  She had done a company overview and product review, providing links to their home site.  Knowing little except that this was a line of toys (which could be of interest to our company) and that they were focused on Nature, I followed the links!

Little Humbugs home screen

The Little Humbugs in their own words "grew from a desire to connect children back to nature. When children have experienced the Magic of nature they will want to protect it. First, we need to get the children outside – allow them the freedom to play, explore and discover." (www.littlehumbugs.com)

I was inspired!

First, let me please tell you - this is a CANADIAN company!  Marghanita, is a Canadian Author & Illustrator.  She has conceived, designed and beautifully illustrated the series of stories about the Little Humbugs who are part human, part bug and act as the "Protectors of Nature".

The website alone was a wonderful treat:   www.littlehumbugs.com is interactive and informative.  Kids learn about the importance of natural ecosystems and the creatures who contribute more than just beauty and inspiration to us; all in a beautifully artistic way that will appeal to a wide audience.  

The stories are wound around well developed characters, each with their own specialty and part to play in the preservation.  In addition to the creative expression of the concept, there is a strong ecology message that is easily understood.  Kids are empowered to take ownership of their contribution to the planet and each online story segment ends providing realistic ideas that kids can use themselves. 

While they do manufacture a full range of adorable products that range from story books to dolls, to lotions and body care items, I was most impressed that the majority of their products are produced in Canada! (I think only one exception and that was the dolls!).  

They are committed to responsible manufacturing processes and practices that preserve and sustain our world - we love that!   I was even more pleased to note that on top of all this other awesomeness, they are dedicated to socially responsible initiatives such as supporting fair trade for female workers in Nepal.  

I highly encourage you to check the site out and enjoy it with your kids.  Great inspiration, fun activities and a profound message from a fantastic Canadian company!  Kudos!

Until next time:  Inspire...imagine...invent!