Cosy Toes

Christmas Cake with 4 Ingredients - It works!

2011-12-16T18:27:00.000-08:00

A customer of Cosy Toes emailed through a Christmas cake with only 4 ingredients! So that's what I've just made. I made 4 small cakes for gifts and decorated the top with glace cherries and sliced almonds - this one to the right.
Yes it looks like a cake and it worked!

Here is the recipe for you to share:

Soak a kilo of mixed fruit in 2 cups pf strong coffee overnight (I add
red glace cherries!)
Next day sometime! Add 150gms of roughly chopped chocolate - we like
macadamia chocolate
Then mix in 2 cups of self raising flour! Can add spices such as
cinnamon if the mood so pleases.
Bake at 130C The smaller the tin the longer to cook - I use an eight
inch tin

You have a nice as in NICE cake.

I would love to hear if yours worked out too.

Cosy Toes: New Zealand Wool and Why We Love It.

2011-12-15T17:22:00.001-08:00

Cosy Toes: New Zealand Wool and Why We Love It.: I keep a pretty good eye on New Zealand wool and any related industries or businesses that could be effected by what is happening with wool ...

Cosy Toes: Christmas Decorations Made from Wool

2011-12-15T17:22:00.000-08:00

Cosy Toes: Christmas Decorations Made from Wool: Christmas brings out my creativity! I thought you might like to see my latest project. I've made these mini Christmas Stockings which w...

Christmas Decorations Made from Wool

2011-12-15T17:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas brings out my creativity! I thought you might like to see my latest project.

I've made these mini Christmas Stockings which were knitted and made from scraps of wool (of course). They were so simple to make and took hardly any time.
I'm going to hang my on our tree this year but I thought next year I might make them in all different colours with a number sticker on them and hang them for an advent calender. Or they would just make a lovely gift in a card for a keep sake gift made lovingly from you.

Click here for the link to your free pattern.

There is also an idea there to make a wool pompom which children could make and hang on the tree too.

Merry Christmas from Cosy Toes.

New Zealand Wool and Why We Love It.

2011-12-07T19:05:00.001-08:00

I keep a pretty good eye on New Zealand wool and any related industries or businesses that could be effected by what is happening with wool in our country. Recently an online article was brought to my attention. The first lines were saying "stop wearing wool because of cruelty to sheep". I couldn't think what the cruelty would be here in New Zealand to warrant this. As I clicked through to the website where the article was, I read on to discover the writer was referring to live sheep exports. As far as I know New Zealand is no longer involved with exporting their sheep live to any foreign countries and I hope the new National Government here in New Zealand will not be considering doing this again.

Here at Cosy Toes wool has been the back bone to our business. We believe in this wonderful, natural fibre to be the best fibre you can dress in and live in, in the world. The benefits are endless. It's warm for a start and promotes great circulation for the body. Babies do not regulate their body temperature and as wool breathes naturally this is the ideal fibre for them to wear. Many elderly people also reap the benefits of wearing wool as it helps with blood flow and warmth. The advancement of technology in the processing of wool and animal health over the years means that wool is a more comfortable fibre to wear than years gone by.

Sheep are shorn which is just like cutting your hair. Sheep continuously grow wool and are typically shorn once a year. Shearing a sheep benefits the sheep as it helps to keep the sheep cool in summer and healthy. New Zealand sheep farmers are experienced with generations of farming knowledge being passed down.

I'm really pleased there has been a resurgence of people's awareness of the benefits of wearing and living with wool . Synthetics will always be a part of our lives whether we like or not but there is no other fibre that comes close to wool.

Enterprising Rural Women Award 2011

2011-02-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

Do you know someone who runs a successful small business from a rural location?

Now would be the time to bring to their attention the 2011 RWNZ Enterprising Rural Women Award, as entries close on Friday 18th March.

This is the third year we have run the award, and it's a great opportunity for rural women to showcase their businesses to a wide audience.

The award attracts extensive media interest, and previous entrants have enjoyed a real publicity boost through articles in local and national print media, and on radio and television.

Winning the South Island prize in the RWNZ Enterprising Rural Women Award last year has had a positive spin off, especially increasing my local sales - I'm definitely busier because of it. Tracey Robinson, Cosy Toes Ltd.

This year's awards is being sponsored by Telecom, Access Homehealth Limited, and Rural Women New Zealand.

Judges Tina Symmans, Telecom's Director of Corporate Relations and John Ayling, Chairman of Access Homehealth Limited, will join RWNZ National President Liz Evans in the challenging task of selecting a North Island and South Island finalist, as well as the supreme winner. Each award includes $1000 in prize money.
An exciting award ceremony will be part of our National Conference 2011 in Auckland in May.
Further information and entry forms can be found at www.ruralwomen.org.nz.

Merino Singlets for Adults!

2011-01-21T16:14:00.000-08:00

Look what we have been up to the last couple of months! These beautiful 100% merino singlets for woman are due to arrive and will be online to buy in March 2011. Just in time for our Autumn and Winter season.
Cosy Toes is expanding every year and this year we are introducing more adult merino socks and adult merino clothing.

Top Ten Baby Names in New Zealand for 2010

2011-01-16T17:13:00.000-08:00

The Department of Internal Affairs Office of Births Deaths and Marriages have just released the most popular baby names in 2010.
Sophie was the most popular name for the 3rd year running!
Click here for the link to the 100 most popular names
Top 10 boys' names:
1. Liam 374
2. James 333
3. Oliver 327
4. Jack 325
5. William 320
6. Joshua 298
7. Benjamin 286
8. Jacob 285
9. Samuel 282
10. Lucas 271

Top 10 girls' names:
1. Sophie 377
2. Olivia 335
3. Ruby 322
4. Charlotte 305
5. Isabella 286
6. Lily 281
7. Ella 277
8. Chloe 262
9. Emily 232
10. Emma 228

Merino Wool Wash products - Be in to Win!

2011-01-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

Thanks to our friends at Softly and Martha Gardener we have some products especially designed to wash your merino wool socks and clothing!
For full washing instructions and tips from us to wash these garments visit our washing tips page: www.cosytoes.co.nz/merino-wool-washing.shtml.
This is open to New Zealand residents only.
Become a liker on our Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/cosytoes.
Once we reach 500 likers we will start to give the prizes away!

WORKING HER SOCKS OFF

2010-07-12T01:19:00.000-07:00

A fruitless effort to find woollen socks for her children has seen CRT shareholder Tracey Robinson, of Rotherham, Canterbury, named runner up in the RWNZ Enterprising Rural Women Awards 2010. The award was part of the annual conference held in Oamaru in May.
Tracey's business came about in 2005 when she failed to find woollen socks for her two pre-school aged boys, Logan and Drew. Being brought up on a North Canterbury sheep farm, she helped in the shearing shed and with lambing and tailing. "I grew up with wool, Mum was a knitter and I just knew the benefits of it."
Researching the market, she discovered that inexpensive imports of synthetic socks had led to New Zealand wool manufacturing businesses closing down and selling their machines.
"You couldn't buy a pair of children's woollen socks in New Zealand." She decided to reverse the trend, setting up a business in a rural township with a population of just 300, using the internet to supply a niche, high quality product using innovative marketing, including social networking sites. "I just felt like it was a sense of duty to bring them back to the market," she said. "If I hadn't had the children I wouldn't have even known that was happening."
The great thing about starting her business was the fact she could start small. "Nobody knew if I had 20 pairs of socks or a shop full." So she found a New Zealand manufacturer and the rest they say is history.
Since the first order was placed via the Cosy Toes website in 2005, Tracey has extended her sock range, to include merino wool clothing, wool blankets and wool tights and now posts all over New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom, United States and Europe. About 80 per cent of her product is sold in New Zealand with the remainder sent overseas. The business has grown to the point where she now has about 500 orders a month - about 10 to 20 orders a day. Tracey has not really tapped into the international market, so sees the potential to grow the business even further.
Despite her success, Tracey has not based her business on knowledge gained elsewhere. She has learnt the business from ground up - through challenges and adversity and talking to others.
She also drew on the knowledge she gained from working at her partners transport business. "I guess I had a feel for number. My upbringing was also one where we learned if you work hard you reap what you sow."
The award is sponsored by Ballance and Access, and this year's award judges were Theresa Gattung of Wool Partners Ltd and Access fromer chaiman Doug Langford. Mr Langford said Tracey was resourceful, passionate and determined to succeed in the face of obstactles with Ms Gattung adding the company was courageous in its inception and spot on in its execution. "Cosy Toes is a great example of new ways to reinvent the existing," Ms Gattung said.
Unfortunately the floods meant Tracey and her husband spent the night in Christchurch instead of at the ceremony in Oamaru, but she was able to fax through her speech notes she had prepared just in case. "I had been really busy leading up to the night with lots of orders and just sort of thought I'll worry about it when I get there."
She was surprised at how well she did but believes it was her belief in the product which saw her do so well. But despite her success she still has unfinished business. "I'm still learning though. You come against these challenges and you work through things. Different opportunities come up and different problems but you just keep on going."

Enterprising Rural Womens Awards 2010

2010-06-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

The supreme winner of the Rural New Zealand Enterprising Women Award 2010 was awarded to Tineke Verkade along with her Waikato based business, Homeopathic Farm Support Ltd.

Runner up and South Island winner was awarded to Tracey Robinson of Rotherham, North Canterbury along with her business Cosy Toes ltd, who set up her online merino wool sock business after experiencing frustration that wool socks were not available for her two preschoolers. She set up her business in the rural township of Rotherham with a population of approximately 300 using the internet to supply a niche, high quality product using innovative marketing, including social networking sites.

The award recognises an outstanding rural businesswoman running her own enterprise and celebrates the success of all rural women entrepreneurs.

Rural Women New Zealand national president, Margaret Chapman said rural businesswomen often have to overcome additional geographical and technological challenges in running their businesses.

The award ceremony was held at the Rural Women New Zealand national conference in Oamaru last week.

Tracey Robinson feels very honoured to be named the South Island winner but unfortunately could not travel to the awards ceremony because of flooding which closed the road north of Oamaru on that day with no diversions. “It was a very big build up of approximately two months looking forward to the ceremony and when we heard the road was closed with no diversions – I didn’t know what to think! My presentation was emailed down to Oamaru so they could read it out on my behalf and then I spent a very quiet, rainy night in Christchurch with my partner waiting by the phone for the results.”

“Entering these awards has been really good for me personally as it has reminded me that what I am achieving is great and sometimes that can be taken for granted when you are in the middle of it all. Rural Women New Zealand managed the awards very well and I really enjoyed meeting with Theresa Gattung at my interview held in Wellington in April.”

Tracey adds “I did not get to meet Tineke at the awards ceremony as planned but we have talked over the phone in the past couple of days. She is a very lovely and a motivated woman who has come up against some massive hurdles along the way and now employs six homeopaths. It’s amazing what she is doing in her business and I congratulate her and wish her every success.”

Rural Women New Zealand thanks their award sponsors, Ballance and Access, and award judges, Theresa Gattung and Doug Langford.

Greatest Mum Awards

2010-05-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

Being a Mum is hard work. We all want to do our best.
Often we're too busy looking at other mothers we think are doing a great job that we don't see them looking back at us thinking the same thing. Breastmates would like to bridge this communication gap by launching a free certificate to download and share.
"Something as simple as encouragement about how well your child is doing can mean the world of difference to a mum," says Breastmates founder Frances McInnes, mum to two boys, as well as being a small business owner.
"I know myself, if someone just comments on what I am doing as a mum, it really makes me feel encouraged. This year my goal is to help mothers feel encouraged and confident in their parenting ability, and in the choices they make."
If someone passes you one of these certificates, then you'll know that your mum skills are noticed. By sending one to a mother you know, you will be making a real difference on a day that may otherwise have been quite a challenge!
You can download the certificate at www.cosytoes.co.nz/promotions.shtml save to your computer, and then email to your friends along with your own message of encouragement.

Canterbury Farming - April 2010

2010-04-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

Rural Women New Zealand is delighted with the entries in its Enterprising Rural Women Award 2010.
Tracey Robinson of North Canterbury is one of the high calibre entrants this year.
Cosy Toes is an online/mail order retail business, specializing in 100% New Zealand made merino wool socks, merino clothing and other NZ wool related products for babies and children. Tracey operates the business from home, after experiencing frustration that wool socks were not available for her two pre-school aged boys. She researched the history of the NZ market and discovered that inexpensive imported clothing had led to our own businesses closing down and selling their machines. While synthetic sock markets worldwide are 'massive', Cosy Toes has created a market niche, selling wool socks and promoting the benefits of wearing wool. Tracey now sells merino wool clothing for children to complement the woollen socks. Starting a business in a rural township with a population of just 300, Tracey knew that the internet was vital to growing her markets. The success is based on a niche product and high quality and innovative market, including social networking sites. Cosy Toes products are now posted all over the world. Tracey has gone on to support charities, including the Cosy Toes Sock Drive for orphans in Uganda.

Exciting Entries in RWNZ Enterprising Rural Women Award 2010

2010-04-19T22:54:00.000-07:00

Rural Women New Zealand are delighted with the quality of entries in its Enterprising Rural Women Award 2010, which closed recently.
"The entries reflect the resilience of rural women entrepreneurs, who are continuing to grow their businesses by looking for new markets and new ways of working in these challenging economic times," says Rural Women New Zealand national president, Margaret Chapman.
Many of the businesses are embracing internet technology and social networking to market their products both in New Zealand and overseas.
"Increasingly we operate in a global market, and this underscores the urgent need to improve rural broadband access to insure these businesses have the tools they need to operate competitively."
Another recurring theme among the award entries is a passion for making better use of New Zealand's high quality raw materials, such as merino wool and the desire to support and retain onshore manufacturing.
"Many of the entrants have brought new life and work opportunities to rural communities, offering local employment as their businesses have grown," says Ms Chapman.
The high calibre of entries is going to make the task of judging very challenging, she says. The award is being judged by Theresa Gattung of Wool Partners International, Doug Langford, recently retired chairman of Access Homehealth Ltd - which is sponsoring the award - and Margaret Chapman.
A North and South Island winner will be chosen, both of whom will attend the award ceremony at the Rural Women New Zealand national conference in Oamaru on Tuesday 25 May, when the supreme winner will be announced.

Nominated for Award

2010-04-14T22:03:00.000-07:00

Rotherham's Tracey Robinson is one of this year's Rural Women New Zealand entrants in the Enterprising Rural Women Award 2010.
Tracey runs Cosy Toes Ltd, an online mail order business specialising in 100% merino clothing and other products for babies and children.

Wives Need A Dream as Well

2010-03-08T17:23:00.000-08:00

Just recently while tidying my Cosy Toes office I found an article by Rob Cope - Williams that I had cut out of a rural New Zealand newspaper in December 2006. I thought there was a lot of truth in this article and had saved it. I would like to share it with you...

Latterly I seem to have come across a raft of women who are very frustrated about their lot and feel as though they are living someone else's life rather than their own.
When they fell in love with the man of their dreams, they were very happy to join him in a partnership that included working very hard in the farm office, and on the land for just the satisfaction of building an assest together. Sadly the dream has become more of a nightmare as the man follows his chosen path, and she loses more and more self respect and becomes more and more lonely.
Men in general seem to have a very poor record in recognising stress, sadness and loneliness in others. The brave face they have been taught to put on seems to blinker the reality around them.
A woman who is thrust into a farming situation through marriage can feel very isolated, lonely and helpless, despite having a husband, children and neighbours.
People can feel all those emotions in the middle of a huge city, so why would the same thing not hit in the country?
Men are, in most cases, guilty of ignoring the fact that farming is their dream, and that the person they love has made a huge sacrifice.
How many men do you know who would give up farming and move into town because they fell for a city career girl?
I have also recently met several women who have started their own businesses and have "discovered" they are a person in their own right, that they are able to do things for themselves, and they can contribute to the farming accounts.
More importantly they have some independence and can, guys, have money they don't have to account for and that means neat presents at Christmas time!
All started with small steps, asked lots of questions and were given help and advise from others who have been down the same track.
Think of "Lisa" who made very good Humus. She gave pots of it away to friends who then talked her into selling it at garden fetes etc.
Now she has her humus in nearly every supermaket in the country.
Closer to home, Marion McKellow was a London girl who ended up on a farm. Wanting to help out she started to sell antiques from home. then came silver jewellery being sold by party plan and at garden fetes etc, and she now has a very impressive shop in Merivale.
Then there's the four who started the Culverden Fete.
You see it can be done. It is being done, and all it takes is the confidence to take the first step.

Kiwi Socks a Charitable Step - The Press newspaper February 2010

2010-02-10T16:14:00.000-08:00

A North Canterbury woman hopes to start the year on the right foot by sending socks to Ugandan children.
Tracey Robinson who runs a sock business called Cosy Toes, made a New Years resolution to be more charitable.
Trawling the internet, she found an Australian group sending socks to orphaned Ugandan children.
The Rotherham mother of two is appealing for people to help her with her "sock drive".
"Apparently it's hot during the day but cold at night, and babies don't regulate their temperature like adults,"Robinson said.
"Uganda has so many abandoned children and they just arrive with nothing,"she said.
"Socks are small, easy to send and anything is gratefully received."
Robinson, is seeking new socks and has already been sent items from Cantabrians, including beanies and baby clothing. She sends the socks to a woman in Australia, who ships them to Uganda.
Robinson said she had "an eye for a good sock".
She plans to send a shipment each month "until people get sick of me asking for socks."
Inquries to info@cosytoes.co.nz

Collecting Socks for Ugandan Orphans

2010-01-27T19:32:00.000-08:00

In less than a week we have collected 86 pairs of socks, 17 items of clothing, 8 beanies, 12 cloth shoes, 3 mittens, 29 bootees, 4 pairs of shoes and 2 large boxes of hand knitted singlets, bootees and beanies. These will be all sent to Uganda to the Child I Foundation. For more information please look at http://www.childifoundation.org/ or contact us as to how you can help out at info@cosytoes.co.nz. Thanks so much for the generous support so far.

Two Easy Recipes Using Your Courgettes/Zucchini

2010-01-20T13:51:00.000-08:00

Zucchini Pickle (easy and doesn't take long to make)
Choose small to medium zucchini for this pickle. Serve as a side dish for steak, chops, chicken and seafood or just yummy on cheese and crackers.
1 kg zucchini
2 medium onions
1/4 cup salt
2 1/4 cups white vinegar
1 cup sugar
2 tsps of mustard seeds
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp dry mustard
1) Wash zucchini, trim ends and slice very thinly ( I use a vege peeler). Quarter the onions lengthwise and cut in half again and seperate into layers. Combine zucchini, onions and salt with enough water to cover in large bowl. Stir well. Stand for 1 hour then drain.
2) Combine remaining ingredients in large saucepan. Bring to the boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Pour hot vinegar mixture over zucchini mixture and stand for 1 hour.
3) Transfer Zucchini and vinegar mixture to the large saucepan. Bring to the boil and simmer for 3 minutes. Somtimes I thicken it at this stage with a little cornflour and water.
4) Spoon into warm, sterilised jars ensuring zucchini is covered with cooking liquid. Seal.

Courgette Cake
3 beaten eggs
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 cups grated courgette
2 1/2 cups of flour
1/2 tsp Baking powder
2 tsp Baking soda
3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1 cup sultanas
2 tsp vanilla
Beat the eggs first and then add and mix the rest of the ingredients. Pour into a lined baking tin (approx 20cms). Bake approximately 1 hour at 180 degrees celcius.

The Great Cosy Toes Sock Drive.

2010-01-17T16:04:00.000-08:00

Here at Cosy Toes HQ we have a mission on! We are asking you for socks!! Yes, socks to be sent to us.... The Great Cosy Toes sock drive.

Through the powers of the internet, information has been sent to us to spread the word about an organisation called the Child's i Foundation (www.childsifoundation.org) which is setting up a babies home in Uganda from scratch by a friend of a friend - Lucy Buck. Every day in Uganda thousands of babies are abandoned and left on the streets. Some die before they get help and others become seriously ill. The lucky ones are put in orphanges. Orphanges already in Uganda are bulging at the seams. Lucy and her team set up the organisation in 2005 to build the home.

Socks are probably something we take a little for granted but we also know that babies need socks. So we are collecting socks to send to the home for the babies. They don't have to be Cosy Toes socks by the way - just next time you are shopping pick up a pair of socks and send them to us - its that simple. We are asking for sizes birth to 2 years (hopefully the babies are adopted out to a nice Ugandan family around this age). Preferably new but if you have some spare socks at home that are in good condition we will also send those. Bootees are fine too.

Cosy Toes will match the first 30 pairs sent in. Our aim is to send 200 pairs (initially) and I will be in touch with you to let you know how many we are up too.
Please forward this information to everyone you know that might like to help out with this. Socks can be sent to: Cosy Toes, 24 George Street, Rotherham, 7379, North Canterbury, (New Zealand).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Bw4MG7nXZA

Happy 2010 - What's New This Year!

2010-01-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

Our summer here in New Zealand hasn't warmed up yet to what it is usually like. This last week we've had rain, hale and thunder storms. When the sun does come out its been very hot - so the sun is trying! On the news we hear of snow storms affecting England, Europe and the U.S. It must be very cold and it makes me wonder what we are in for for our Southern Hemisphere winter.

Cosy Toes is stocked with merino wool clothing for winter for your children aged birth to 10 years. Plus we have all the sizes in merino wool socks available from birth right through to large adult. These are a must have clothing item. Did you know that synthetic and cotton socks can actually cool down your feet when you are trying to keep them warm! The health benefits for wearing wool socks just make sense especially for children who seem to always get wet when out and about. Check out our large range here: www.cosytoes.co.nz/socks.php

Our popular merino wool hoody tops are now back in stock. They are sized from 2 years to 10 years in 3 gorgeous colours.
The merino wool under clothing has a huge selection from merino wool long johns, long sleeve singlets and tops for baby through to 10 years. We aim to keep this clothing very practical, light weight and affordable. Plus not too mention in gorgeous colours too. Browse our large range here: www.cosytoes.co.nz/clothing.php
Our merino wool sleeping range offers our beautiful but practical merino sleep suits. They are like a snug little sleeping bag but made from fine, warm merino wool. They come in sizes from birth to size 2 years. Treat your special little baby today here at: www.cosytoes.co.nz/bedtime.php. Great also for babies that kick their blankets off. New Zealand wool blankets can also be found here too. Synthetic blankets don't regulate your babies body temperature well and that's why the benefits of natural wool blankets are just perfect for your children. Hard to find bassinet size, cot size and single bed size are all here.
Cosy Toes hand knits range is also available at www.cosytoes.co.nz/knits.php. Here you will find chunkier outer wear, popular wool mittens and gloves and hats. For babies and children.

Well I think I've nearly covered everything. I hope you Northern Hemisphere Mums are keeping warm. No doubt the sun will start to shine when the children go back to school here in about two weeks time. Let me know if I can source anything for you or you would like more information: info@cosytoes.co.nz

Cosy Toes and The New Zealand Child Cancer Foundation

2009-12-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

I'm proud to announce that Cosy Toes is an official helper and supporter of the Child Cancer Foundation. In New Zealand when a child suffering from cancer or a serious blood disorder receives a treatment they receive a bead of courage. The beads of courage are collected and some are made into necklaces - they are very precious and the children are very proud of them. The Child Cancer foundation lady told me that some of them have 1000's of beads in their collection. We are very privileged to be associated with this foundation and in support have beads of courage bracelets available for sale either on our website http://www.cosytoes.co.nz/ or either by emailing me direct info@cosytoes.co.nz. They have a leather adjustable strap that is suitable for a child or adult to wear. You can choose from one with 2 beads as pictured for $5nz or a one beader for $3nz. 100% of this money for these bracelets is reimbursed to the foundation with no related costs to them.

Motunau Beach Trip - New Zealand

2009-11-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

Last Friday the school my two sons attend had a day trip to Motunau Beach. (Pronouced Mot-tu-now). Its a beautiful place off the East Coast of the South Island situated in the Hurunui District in New Zealand. Only 1 hours drive from where we live. The small village is surrounded in farm land and there is houses on the steep hill side which have an amazing coast line view. Part of the view is Motunau Island which is now a reserve and breeding island for little blue penguins. (pictured left). The children had a great time exploring rock pools with crabs, shell fish and beautiful sea weed. They also built some amazing sand castles. It was a lovely day - another day in our New Zealand paradise.

Enjoy this gorgeous Kiwi song from Dave Dobbyn

2009-11-14T14:15:00.000-08:00

New Wool Blankets

2009-11-09T16:07:00.000-08:00

Cosy Toes has added to its wool product range! We now have in stock some beautiful wool blankets in bassinet, cot and king single sizes. These are 100% New Zealand wool, designed and made in New Zealand also. I love the midnight blue colour pictured left. The satin edge styles are thermacel which is a lighter weight blanket and the natural wool blanket pictured below is a more traditional heavier weight blanket. The price is also so affordable. Find them here an order at www.cosytoes.co.nz/bedtime.php

4 Giggling Babies - A Must See

2009-10-29T23:14:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enRVVMVCqLk

Business Ideas from Cosy Toes

2009-10-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

As Simple As Socks!

Sometimes we all have ideas but how does that idea turn into a business?

One woman who is making it happen reveals her secrets. Getting a foot in the door of the business world is tough at anytime but when you’re a Mum and helping to run other family businesses, it can be even harder, but it can be done.

Tracey Robinson from Rotherham in North Canterbury had one of those ideas which all began from what she describes as “a small idea”. “I’d been looking for some woollen socks for my two boys and couldn’t find any anywhere. So I began thinking, how crazy it was that we live in New Zealand which is renowned worldwide for our sheep and there was a lack of wool socks for children. I guess it all just started because I wasn’t happy that my children didn’t have warm feet and so I started thinking about how many other children didn’t have warm feet and wool socks too.” And so from there Cosy Toes was born.

Now for most of us, an idea would stop there as the demands of everyday life take over. “I believe if you got to bed thinking about something and you are still thinking about it in the morning then you should really do something about it. If you wake up and aren’t still thinking about it – it’s probably not meant to be.” The internet was the logical way to start Cosy Toes. “Because of my location and family commitments the website opened me up to the world almost instantly.” Through talking to others she found a website designer who helped out with the logo and the overall design of the website which also lead to the same design being used on brochures and business cards. “We chose bright colours and cartoon characters throughout the website. The name “Cosy Toes” had a child like connotation. My logo is of a wolf and a pig, (The Three Little Pigs) with their arms around one another as friends, dancing with socks on. It’s really important to match your design with your product.” she says.

Three years on Cosy Toes has grown in demand and has also expanded its product range into a practical range of merino wool clothing. All socks and clothing are made in New Zealand. “I’m continually coming up with new ideas which sometimes can frighten me as I’m not sure whether I’ve ever been so passionate about something in my life for so long! I’ve grown in confidence along this journey, but I feel I also made some sensible ‘back bone’ but practical decisions from the beginning which has helped my journey.”

Some of Tracey’s advice for beginning a business by website or mail order would be:
• Start small and with what you can afford. The beauty about a website is that you don’t have to have loads of stock to begin with and you can grow your stock numbers according to demand.
• Think carefully about pricing and presentation and then think again before you start marketing and going live with your website.
• Target your advertising to the correct market and be careful not to get carried away and waste your advertising dollar.
• Start a customer contact list where people can subscribe from day one to offer specials and to tell customers about new products. You can also make some great friends by doing this.
• Offer fast, uncomplicated delivery service. When people are ordering off a website they have to wait for their order – unlike a shop which you can get your products there and then once they are paid for. This can have a disadvantage over a retail store.
• Update and add to your website regularly. Don’t just sit back and think, “I have a website and it will work for me”. This helps with searching for your site on search engine ratings.
• Talk to others constantly and listen. Get a business mentor or just listen to what ideas your customers have.
• Remember things won’t happen overnight.
• Make sure you know the reason you are doing what you are doing. That might sound strange but if you don’t have a reason then what is the purpose.

Having your own business can be very satisfying but also demanding. “When I think back to when Cosy Toes began I was so excited when my first order came through and that is what is important for me to remember those small things now so I can see where my business has expanded to. I get orders from all over the world and also wholesale enquiries from all over the world too. The juggling act can be hard to find the time for everything and you have to be prepared to work long after what used to be your bedtime. The upside of it all is that I’m learning all the time and very excited about what the future holds for Cosy Toes.”

And the final bit of advice would be: “If you feel strongly about something, find out all you can first then take small steps and let them grow with enthusiasm!” Tracey welcomes any questions or any queries you might have to help you start or nurture your business at: info@cosytoes.co.nz or for the Cosy Toes website visit www.cosytoes.co.nz.

International Year of Natural Fibres Video

2009-10-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

International Year of Natural Fibres

2009-10-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

Did you know that 2009 is the International Year of Natural Fibres?
Over the past 50 or more years natural fibres including wool have taken the "back seat" to names like acrylic, synthetic, nylon and polypropylene. This is mainly due to the cost of mass producing of these products.
The International Year of Natural Fibres is aimed at raising global awareness of the importance of natural fibres. Globally the livelihood of millions of people rely on natural fibres by growing and processing these.
There are many reasons natural fibres are the best choice:
1) Natural fibres are a responsible choice: a major economic importance to developing countries.
2) Natural fibres are a sustainable choice: a renewable resource and are carbon neutral.
3) Natural fibres are a high-tech choice: low weight, low cost and strength making them attractive to a range of different industries.
4) Natural fibres are a fashionable choice: sustainable, safe and healthier to wear.
For more information here is the official website: http://www.naturalfibres2009.org/en/index.html

Snow in North Canterbury New Zealand

2009-10-08T15:46:00.000-07:00

Well this morning the weather is just a wee bit different and we woke up to snow! I've posted some photos of the views about. They aren't very clear because it's still snowing. I would've posted some photos of my boys having fun in the snow but they have gone with their Dad to do some "serious work" on the farm!

Its Spring here now in New Zealand. We really have had a mild winter and a great start to Spring. The school holidays started here two weeks ago and it reverted back to Winter. I'm not too sad - its all good for Cosy Toes when my New Zealand customers still need winter woollies at this time of the year!

I guess I better get on and get some other jobs done before the power goes off!

COSY TOES SET TO REAP WARM AWARDS

2009-09-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

Online, North Canterbury business Cosy Toes has been named as a finalist in The David Awards 2009.

The David Awards recognise the unsung heroes in home and small businesses throughout New Zealand, whose tenacity, courage and ingenuity place them firmly at the forefront of entrepreneurship in this country.

Cosy Toes has been named a finalist in the Most Outstanding Triumph Over Adversity category. Founder Tracey Robinson says “Cosy Toes fits into the category perfectly with the impact the synthetic clothing industry has had on our home grown fibres. As a whole our wool industries and manufacturing businesses have faced challenges since the post war manufacturing boom”. “And again our manufacturers and growers are facing more challenges again this year from the recession,” Tracey says.

Tracey’s upbringing and love of wool has had a huge impact why the Cosy Toes business began almost five years ago. The idea materialised out of what she describes as her “frustration” at not being able to find wool socks for her two pre-school children. Sourcing the wool socks was not easy at first but once they were found Tracey sourced more and more wool products to the range for children. There is now a range of merino wool clothing that complements the wool socks. “I guess sourcing products is the hard part but also the fun part of the business,” Tracey says.

The success of Cosy Toes is mostly because of still having those customers not only in New Zealand but also around the world that appreciate the clean, warm and natural fibre that wool is. “The website is our life link to the world and no one would really know that all this is done from a little rural New Zealand town,” says Tracey. “Mothers too are using the internet more and more for online shopping and social networking.”

Category winners and a Supreme Award will be announced on the 7th of October 2009.

For more information visit: www.cosytoes.co.nz

Cosy Toes Is A Finalist!

2009-09-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

I've just found out that Cosy Toes is a finalist in the David Awards Business Awards - catergory Most Outstanding Triumph Over Adversity! This is very exciting.... http://www.thedavidawards.co.nz/finalists2009.html.
The category winners and supreme winner of The David Awards 2009 will be announced during a web broadcast which will be available from www.thedavidawards.co.nz from 10.30 a.m. on Wednesday 7th October.
Wish us luck.

A Heart Warming Story

2009-09-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

This is so special. Chelsea James (who suffers from Cancer) from Australia on stage with Beyonce.
Click here to watch.

My Inspirational Garden Visit

2009-09-21T23:04:00.000-07:00

Today I spent the day with a friend away from Cosy Toes headquarters and visited an amazing private garden on the East coast of North Canterbury, New Zealand. The views were amazing and the garden was just as amazing as the views from the garden!
Check out their view! We live in paradise!

For gorgeous Rhododendrons like the ones we saw today (pictured right) visit http://www.rhododirect.co.nz/.

Understanding Our Fibres - part one

2009-09-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

Historically, the textile industry has relied on raw materials produced in particular counties, hence we have Egyptian flax, Indian Cotton and Chinese Silk, and New Zealand Wool.
Despite technology, most designers and fabric merchants still praise the use of natural fibres. Raw fibres feel clean and crisp against the skin, however synthetics are more durable and less expensive to manufacture.

The modern ability to blend fibres improves the performance and aesthetic qualities of fabric. Natural fibre blends, such as wool/silk or silk/cotton, result in fine, luxurious fabrics. Blends that combine natural and synthetic fibres, for example polyester/cotton, are durable and require minimal care.

For the New Zealand and Australian market, there is mixed demand for natural and man-made fabrics. High standard natural European fabric is sought after and purchased for quality, then later dyed to specific colour specifications. In contrast, synthetics are made to order, pandering supply and demand. Fabric merchants agree that the Italian and French are at the forefront of design, producing individual synthetic brocades that hold their shape and style. By comparison, Asia produces predominately for the mass-market manufacturer.

Fashion is based on culture, and in store availability reflects this. Sydney mimics LA, where style and cut makes way for fast, disposable fashion. New Zealanders by comparison, have a high regard for style and choose darker, heavier fabrics. New Zealanders are culturally more discerning, particularly regarding fabric choice.

*** article from Simply You.***

New Merino Wool Tops for Cosy Toes

2009-09-15T14:03:00.000-07:00

Just new for Cosy Toes....Devine little 100% merino short sleeve baby tops. These are very soft and the colours are just gorgeous!
Made in New Zealand and fully machine washable.

Baby sizes: 000 (0-3 months), 00 (3-6 months), 0 (6-9 months) and 1 year.

I Couldn't Resist Showing You This - Its So Funny

2009-09-09T16:33:00.001-07:00

This is part of my son, Drew's (who is 8 years old) homework project. They are doing a topic all about being kind to others. We have just found out that his principal is pregnant. Read the instructions first. I thought it was so well thought of - but I had to remind him it was about being kind because he made the chair on the pregnant picture bigger than on the not pregnant side!

My New Hat Stand

2009-09-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

Well...what do you think of my idea for a hat stand to display my merino wool star hats and merino wool babies beanies? I've borrowed this stand from a friend and have created these faces from some calico and stuffing I had here in the cupboard. I just wanted something a bit different at this years Christmas Fete. So I've got a few more "heads" to make yet.

Merino Sleep Suits

2009-09-05T15:16:00.001-07:00

When I had my first baby boy I was given from one of my girlfriends mother a home made cotton sleeping bag. It was one of the most useful things that I had for him and when his feet eventually hit the end of the bag I extended it! It was great because he was a bit of wriggler (and still is). It just meant that if his blankets came off he still was snug in his bag. Anyway Cosy Toes has created the same idea in merino. They are light weight and have an opening down the bottom for easy nappy changing. These sleep suits are also very affordable and make a great gift. Colours available are light pink and blue and white as pictured.

The David Awards

2009-09-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

Cosy Toes is entered in The David Awards in The Most Outstanding Triumph Over Adversity catergory. Finalists will be announced on the 23rd of September. Very exciting - Good luck Cosy Toes! Will keep you posted...

Spring is here?

2009-09-01T15:46:00.001-07:00

Well here I am in the office (as usual) looking outside the window and I'm not sure Spring is here yet.. So here is a photo of my lovely view from my window. Still snow on the mountains which look very stormy today. So officially with the 1st of September Spring has arrived - some daffodils are out at least!

Come join me on Facebook

2009-08-26T19:49:00.000-07:00

Cosy Toes is now on Facebook and a bit about myself too.

Come join me at: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/Rotherham-New-Zealand/Cosy-Toes/122469157794?ref=nf

Culverden Christmas Fete

2009-08-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

This year the Culverden Christmas Fete is on Thursday the 29th of October - 10am to 4pm.
- Over 200 stalls of the finest arts and crafts- Great food – great local wine- Demonstrations
- Christmas shopping at its best- Live music- Pimms Cocktails.

Antonia - with her darling Little Pearls For Little Girls - will be my Cosy Toes buddy again. It's always a very exciting day for us and one we both look forward to for having catch up with one another. Hopefully I'll remember to take some photos for you all this year. Make sure you come and say Hi.

What's New For 2009?

- Pamper in a Paddock- The return of Barry Saunders of The Waratahs- Sarah Cassidy ,our local vocalist - "Seagars" Seafood with a twist- 57 new to the Fête stallholders - "Common Ground" authors - Virginia Pawsey & Janice Marriott with- "Art of Successful Vegetable Growing"- New traffic system for an easier arrival- Friends of Waikari Hospital raffle -

The Fête will be clearly sign-posted north and south of Culverden, which is approximately 80 minutes from Christchurch on State Highway 7.

Why Cosy Toes?

2009-08-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

Cosy Toes was created approximately four years ago. I couldn't find wool socks for my two sons (aged one and four) and just couldn't believe that New Zealand, with a strong sheep heritage had a lack of wool socks for our children! We would go out and I'd have wool socks on but I just couldn't bare the boys having cold socks on. Through searching on the internet and asking friends I came to continuous dead ends. I began ringing around sock factories in New Zealand. And man are there a lot of sock factories in New Zealand when you start ringing around. Finally a break through when I found a manufacturer. One thing led to another I guess and I'm not sure looking back why I decided to SELL them! I thought if Cosy Toes didn't work then at least my boys would have warm feet. When my boys had wool socks on and their warm feet sorted I became absolutely passionate about children having warm feet. I'm a wool sock junky now and cannot stand it when I see kids on a cold day wearing acrylic, thin socks.

The photo to the top right is of Logan when he was approximately nearly 2 years old and myself and Drew who was 4 years old. We were modelling the socks on our hands in the wool shed.