with earth day getting all the press in april, i thought most of you might not even know it’s also autism awareness month. but with as many as 1 in 110 kids now being diagnosed with some degree of autism (see more depressing stats on the CDC’s website), it’s worth paying attention to. i was lucky enough to get a little care package and some information about what’s going on to raise money for autism this month, and thought i’d share a couple of my favorites.
when i first saw these tees, if i’m being honest, the charitable aspect was just icing on the cake. i fell hard for that beautiful graphic – so colorful and fun, but still hip. designed by kyle westphal (the namesake of kyle’s treehouse, a wonderful nonprofit founded by kyle’s parents and dedicated to providing information about autism) and artist jessie rose vala (and printed on my favorite alternative apparel slub tees!), they’re absolutely beautiful in person…especially that grey with the beautiful blue mountains. each tee is hand-screened, so it’s totally unique (mine has some pink and green in the mountains, it’s so pretty). i’ve been wearing mine nonstop since it arrived. it’s perfect with boyfriend jeans and a leather blazer. pick one up for $30, and 100% of the proceeds from these hip tees goes straight to kyle’s treehouse.
much like those tees, i would have had to tell you about these candles even if they weren’t donating 10% of their proceeds to autism awareness this month. fortunately, they are, which makes it even easier. you all know i see a fair number of candles these days, so it takes a bit to impress me. but linnea’s lights managed it. these burn better than some candles that i’ve spent more than twice the money on (they’re only $29, a serious bargain in the world of luxe candles). i haven’t tested the whole line, but i can say their magnolia fragrance is my new favorite candle, hands down. they’ve taken the magnolia scent i utterly adore, and added a touch of citrus to keep it from being overpowering. it’s fabulous, and the perfect scent for spring. plus, yes, i love the little matchbox that comes with every candle.
and then, of course, there’s always the old-fashioned way to help: a quick $5 or $10 donation here (or here, or here) makes a bigger difference than you think. but mostly, i think the thing is to just be aware that it’s a real problem, badly in need of a solution.
okay, off my “very serious soapbox” now….happy monday, everyone!
