Beads, beads and more beads! I sit on the floor of my office tent surrounded by pools of colorful beads designing a new line of products. The thoughts that fill my mind are of the global economic crisis, of the many boutiques across America and Europe that are struggling as we are to keep going under such dire circumstances. Not the usual inspirations I draw upon to create a new line but potent ones.

The rains have abandoned southern Kenya again this year and the cattle wonder the hills, ribs showing, browsing for any shoot of green to eat. I hear their pitiful moos frequently throughout the day as I work stringing vast combinations of beads. Young Maasai herders flash their brilliant smiles and call out, “Hello” in their best English and I become rejuvenated again and filled with hope in the knowledge that life will swing back into balance and that all of us need to learn the lessons that the Maasai carry in their blood, that by working together we will again prosper.

Inspired by the resilient Maasai youth the New “Action Line” was born. A 7” bracelet and a 15” necklace ast a lower price point of Zulugrass so stores can provide beautiful gifts for cost conscience shoppers that stands for Faith, Hope and Strength and the knowledge that by working together we can help each other continue to make the world a better place.

Take heart and hope from the youth. Keep positive and keep active. Give wisdom, guidance and warmth to those around you. Thank you for your continued support of Zulugrass and all that you do to build a better world!