Ok. So, I had been working hard here in Phnom Penh trying to find new handbags, messenger bags, wallets, scarves, some interesting surprises or two, and maybe a cool new necklace for you, my valued Three Stone Steps customers.

So, here I am in a hot climate, trying to unearth interesting fines (or, as they say here in S.E. Asia, not more of the “same same,” but bags, wallets, scarves and other fashion accessories that are both well made, justly made, and unique).

One can only do this, especially in the heat, for so long. So, this weekend, I did have some time to relax and try to reflect on some of the products that I’ve seen.

Singapore is a city-state that is given to newness and business. Some have described it as soul-less, although I find that more than a bit harsh, since it does have some great sights, great people, and fantastic foods.

So, imagine my surprise when I saw, in what it called Sculpture Square, a statue with a very interesting plaque. In this case, the plaque is devoted to those who immigrated to Singapore and built this equatorial island into a commercial hub.

I have to say that despite being visiting many, many, many labor (or, in this case “labour”) sights, I’ve rarely seen such a straightforward and simple sentiment. This is really what all the progress and glass and steel is all about…as it is everywhere.

I’m still in Phnom Penh searching for great new products for Three Stone Steps. I had a bit of a disappointing day yesterday thinking that I was on to something with jewelry made from recycled land minds, but it turned out that I couldn’t find a design at a price point that would work. I will continue today searching for the best in silks, cottons, and eco-chic.

I’m also debating getting water reed rattan/ish bags for Three Stone Steps’s customers. While I did find some designs that you’re sure to love, I am not sure about the quality of the product, and that’s of utmost importance. I would never want to sell any handbags, messenger bags, wallets, silk scarves, or evening bags that I wasn’t positive would wear well. So, I’ll visit this place again this afternoon, and take these new bags through quite a workout. However, I’m not especially optimistic.

I’m also desperately trying to get in touch with this NGO that produces recycled products. It’s hard, but I will venture on since there’s no where I want to miss out on what looks to be a great eco-chic item for my great customers.

Anyway, it’s now afternoon here, and time to get myself in gear to go searching in the Cambodian heat.

Stay turned. I shall return!

Despite having a painfully slow internet connection, Three Stone Steps is delighted to inform you of some new items that will be on offer soon. First jewelry rolls. Ok, they are the same fantastic jewelry rolls now offered by Three Stone Steps, but will be offered in new, most fabulous colors. Colors so great that you’ll wonder how you lived without them; and colors so great that you’ll love using them for your fine bling.

And, speaking of bling, Three Stone Steps is presently debating carrying some really unique and very affordable necklaces. These necklaces are made from buffalo horn (the kind of buffalo they have in Southeast Asia, and YES, the buffalo was already dead for other reasons, and certainly not brought to its demise for its horns. And, NO, I would never, ever, do anything so unethical and cruel as to kill a buffalo so its horn could make a simple necklace, so please don’t even think it just in case that horrid thought crossed your mind). They are lovely and casual, and won’t quite replace the diamonds you wear to the opera, but can certainly go from work to play without missing a beat. But, we’ll see. Even as I write this, I think that buffalo horn bling, as ethical and lovely as it is, may just be too much.

After three days in Singapore, I arrived in Phnom Penh rather late last night. I’m excited to meet with my current producers and to see what new fashion accessories I can find for Three Stone Steps.

I will post a blog soon regarding thoughts about Singapore in terms of being green (or not being green) and some general political, social, cultural and other thoughts.

Anyway, I’m about to meet my producer of the recycled eco-chic messenger bags, laptop bag, and wallets. I’m interested in some of their new offerings, and if all goes well (there is a great deal of things to consider) I should have some new very interesting recycled fashion accessories to offer. I’ll update soon.

Anyway, just checking in.

Will update, and attempt to load photos later today.

Stay tuned.