Shop Japan: Yaginoyama

The pervasive news coverage of the catastrophe in Japan may have subsided a bit, but it's up to everyone to continue the prayers, the support and the generosity we've shown to date. So much more is needed. I heard on the radio yesterday that Gwen Stefani donated one million dollars to Japanese relief efforts. Amazing.

As mentioned in previous posts, I'm using my retail powers and blog roll to aid the cause (in addition to giving what I could monetarily through Global Giving). One quaint little online Japanese store called Yaginoyama has gained worldwide recent exposure, including a post about their wares by Anne Sage, editor of Rue Magazine and The City Sage. Click here for her piece on the unique retailer, who is currently giving 10% of every purchase to the Japanese Red Cross. Be sure to check out their website; it's adorable and minimalist in a way that only the Japanese have perfected. Here are a few of my Yaginoyama favorites:


Sora Tea Pot


Handmade pottery Jug


Soy Sauce Pot


SyruRo Tea Canister


Painted Wooden Childrens Plates

Raise a glass!

Why do we as a country only recycle about 1/3 of our glass containers when, according to earth911.com, "every ton of glass that is recycled results in one ton of raw materials saved to process new glass, including: 1,300 pounds of sand, 410 pounds of soda ash and 380 pounds of limestone."? That's a clear environmental benefit, if you ask me (no pun intended!).

Well, perhaps we just need to see more of the inspiring new forms discarded bottles can take. Here are a few of my favorite beverage glasses, all made from 100% recycled glass:


Another reason to love a cool bottle of Aranciata....it reincarnates beautifully! Stemless Wine Glasses Made From Recycled Aranciata Bottles are $40 for 4, available through Etsy.



I've coveted these sandblasted Umbra+ Frosine Reclaimed Glasses from Green Depot for quite some time. A set of 4 is $38.95.



These 13 oz tumblers look just like their conventional counterparts but are crafted from 100% recycled glass. Luigi Bormioli Recycled Glasses - Set of 4 is only $24.99.



I'm obsessed with the flying, floating freedom of birds and their presence continues to pop up in my home decor. These etched Hummingbird Recycled Glasses (14oz) by artist Alfredo Garcia-Lucio are $39.95 for a 4-pack and certainly belong in my cupboards.