Rwanda Path to Peace Woven Basket

Did you think you had lost me?  I'm still here, but busier than ever!  The college I work for is hosting the Vice Presidential Debate in a couple of weeks, my daughter is playing soccer and taking dance lessons, and frankly, whenever I get home, I'm just ready to plop myself down on the couch!  I'm hoping that October will give me a little more time to photograph and write about food, but in the meantime, I want to introduce you to this awesome gift idea that gives back to the global community.  (Are you starting to think about Christmas gifts like I am already?!  I know I'm working way ahead of schedule, but I love to start thinking about the perfect gifts for my family and friends early!)

Back in July, I was in touch with a representative from Macy's, and they offered to send me one of these handmade baskets from their Rwanda Path to Peace program.  Rwanda has always had a place in my heart--ever since one of my good friends spent some time there after college working with a group of people on reconciliation.  Rwanda has experienced some tough times, including a very gruesome genocide in 1994 that left a large majority of women as its survivors, but from what I've heard from friends who have been there, it is a beautiful place full of beautiful people.  And Macy's has stepped in to help bridge the economic gap that exists there by selling these extraordinary one-of-a-kind baskets to provide sustainable income to the Rwandan women who create them.

If you're like me, you may be looking for a great alternative gift for the hard-to-shop-for friend or relative.  These baskets would be the perfect opportunity to give a beautiful gift, but also support women from across the globe in a craft that has been handed down from generation to generation.  Mine is sturdy and beautifully crafted.  It currently sits in my office as I've started a small collection of international items, but it can hang easily on your wall or could be used as a fruit basket on your table.  Macy's offers several designs at moderate prices, so when you start your holiday gift list, keep these amazing baskets in mind!

Disclosure: A basket from Rwanda Path to Peace was sent to me free of charge from Macy's. I was not required to post about it and received no compensation for doing so.


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