School's In, Now What?

Life shifts for everyone when school is back in session. 

You may be a first-time parent who just experienced the kindergarten send-off for the first time. You may be going back to school yourself. You might not have children, but have to plan your commute around the new traffic patterns of school buses and drop-off lines. 

School aside, shifts are happening everywhere from commutes and work to weather patterns. It’s a time of transition.

 So, now what?

The Value Of Slowing Down

At Latitudes Fair Trade, we are in a unique position. Every day we are surrounded by items from different countries and artisan groups that take time and skills to make. It’s humbling in a fast-paced society to look at these handmade products and remember the value of slowing down.

It’s also inspiring. It may seem silly, but answer these questions. 

What does your dish towel mean to you?

How about the socks you put on in the morning?

How does your evening cup of tea make you feel? 

Intentional Items Build Intentional Lives

Your answers matter more than you might think. For example, when we look at our items from Latitudes, we are reminded of our connection to the world around us. 

The dish towels provide fair wages to global artisans. The socks give back to non-profits. The mugs are handmade and create jobs. The tea is ethically farmed and supports cooperatives reinvesting in their communities. 

These moments of connection take mundane tasks, like drying our hands or making a drink, and turn them into hopeful acts. It’s not just fair trade, but items that were gifted to you and remind you of friends. It’s heirlooms that rest around your home, creating comfort. A curation of intentional items in your home stops the accumulation of “stuff” and creates mindful moments.

Choosing Mindfulness

Long story short, school is in. Now what? Now you choose mindfulness and appreciate the little things. Times of transition are easy to rush through. This is an invitation to ease into each day and enjoy the present before it becomes the past. 

If you like the sound of being surrounded by thoughtfully crafted items that support global communities, we welcome you to visit us at Latitudes Fair Trade. Whether you need a hair clip and a quick snack, are gift shopping, or you’re looking for a new outfit, we’re here 7 days a week to help you find what you’ve been looking for and make it matter.