Here we are again – it’s that time of year for hustle-bustle, holiday shopping. For the past several years, I have avoided going to the local mall for gifts, and this year, I am upping the ante to include any of the big-box retailers. What, no Target? OK then, now that my pulse has returned to normal, let’s explore some alternatives together, OK?
- E-Giftcards – I-tunes, e-books or just about any other place you can imagine – google the store and see what they offer
- Shop Locally – This one is a no-brainer. Make a difference in your own local community and reduce your carbon footprint. It’s fun to shop in a non-chain store and savor the unique things they offer. A few miles from me is the original Fleet Feet Running Store and next door to that is their Lifestyle Boutique. I found great bags made from yoga mat scraps and other green gifts.
- Peace Bomb Bracelets - These are fast becoming a favorite of mine. I have already gifted a couple and they were both big hits. Now I’m placing an order for a half dozen more.
- Eco-Encouraging gifts – Klean Kanteen mugs and water bottles, or ones of your choice, bags, solar anything – whatever helps people on the path to being greener.
- Handmade Gifts – Anything from the kitchen,or perhaps a knitted scarf, hat or gloves. or supplies for them to DIY. Anything your imagination can dream up, and bonus points if it is recycled or repurposed. (My daughter recently gave me a wonderful pair of earrings made with old mailbox keys. Every time I wear them people ask where I got them.) Not crafty? Check out Etsy for an amazingly large and clever assortment of handmade and vintage goods, many of which are green. Or, visit a local holiday boutique.
- Donate to their favorite charity in their name – Not sure which one? There are many great green ones, including the World Wildlife Fund (see side of page)
- Give an Experience – Tickets to the movies. theater, basketball games, etc. or an IOU for an wonderful custom made experience you create with imagination and thoughtfulness (babysitting a friends kid, delivering coffee for a week, free carwash, or anything that the receipent will enjoy.) You can also give them a class, online teleclass, workshop or even coaching sessions!
But suppose you want to give a really amazing, inspiringly beautiful piece of fine jewelry, but feel way too guilty about just how those diamonds were mined? Eco-Angel Karyn found this great site for beautiful (and pricey) fine jewelry – brilliant earth – made from Canadian, conflict free diamonds and Recycled gold and platinum. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s still fun to window(s) shop!
What are your ideas? Santa can use help from all of his good little eco angels…
ho, Ho. HO!!!
