Today, I bring you a giveaway from SouleMama Sponsor, Bella Luna Toys. In owner Sarah's words:
"Bella Luna Toys is an online specialty toy shop offering a unique selection of wooden toys, natural toys, craft kits and non-toxic art supplies inspired by Waldorf education. Waldorf toys are designed to nourish a young child's senses and to encourage imaginative, creative play. You'll find nothing but natural at Bella Luna Toys--nothing plastic or battery-operated.
I write about parenting, childhood, the importance of play and Waldorf education on my blog Moon Child. Here I share my perspective and experience as a Waldorf teacher, author, former Waldorf homeschooler, and mama to two teenage boys."
SouleMama: How long have you been in business?
Sarah: September will mark my one-year anniversary since taking over ownership of Bella Luna Toys which was originally established in 2002. Prior to that I was a Waldorf early childhood teacher for more than ten years. With my background in education, I really know and believe in the toys that I am selling, having used them in my classroom for many years, and at home with my own children. I am committed to only selling products that I believe have true play value for children, and that are safe and responsibly made. If I wouldn't put it in my classroom, you won't find it for sale at Bella Luna Toys!
SouleMama: How do you recharge?
Sarah: I've found it's really important now to find time to recharge after spending long hours in front of a computer as I do these days. It's important to find time to do the things that bring me joy, and keep me healthy. For me, those things are music and exercise. I love traditional, old-time music and am learning to play fiddle, about which I am passionate! Attending Maine Fiddle Camp in the summer is something I look forward to all year long and provides me with major recharging. I also practice Pilates and Yoga, which help me to say centered physically and mentally.
SouleMama: What's coming up next for you and your business?
Sarah: My big project right now, and one that I am SO excited about, is an all new and improved Bella Luna Toys website. The new site will have many new features and new lines of eco-friendly wooden toys, as well as an expanded offering of craft kits and handwork supplies. I've been working at it all summer on it, and am expecting that it will go live during the month of September. If readers sign up for my newsletter, they will receive notification when the new site goes live, and news of planned sales and giveaways in celebration!
SouleMama: What's your favorite part of your job? The most challenging?
Sarah: My favorite part of my new job is sharing my love of children and Waldorf education with families. When I took over Bella Luna Toys, I knew that I didn't just want to have a retail site. I also wanted a means through which I could share my knowledge and experience of children with families, and my blog Moon Child allows me to do that. So I'd have to say that my favorite thing is writing for the blog and hearing from readers.
Since I am very much a "people person," the most challenging part of the job is not having daily, face-to-face contact with my customers and readers. While I was teaching, I spent my days surrounded by children, parents and colleagues, and I miss that. So I really, truly love it when customers call or email me, or leave comments on the blog. It gladdens my heart to see photos of children enjoying their playthings from Bella Luna Toys, and to know that my words are reaching others and making a difference.
For today's giveaway, Bella Luna Toys is offering the following gift:
A $100.00 shopping spree at Bella Luna Toys! (One $100.00 gift certificate for one winner.)
In addition, SouleMama readers are invited to take $5.00 off any order. Use promotional code SM5 at checkout. Expires 11/30/2010.
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Thank you to Bella Luna Toys!
To enter, please leave a comment in today's post (one entry per person, please). Comments will close on Monday by 8am EST. Comments closed! Winners will be announced on Monday.
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