How Do Christians Give Gifts at Christmas?

Today is Black Friday, and that supposedly means the beginning of the Christmas season. Really? A day of sales and crazy lines for printers and tv's is how we kick off our celebration of the birth of Jesus? If Jesus were alive today, do you think he would go to Walmart for that crazy deal? So why is this such a significant part of our Christmas?

Don't get me wrong. I love gift-giving. It is my love language, and honestly, I have bought and receivd some great gifts in my time. I take it seriously, because I really love to show people how much I care about them. I have family members who are ridiculously great gift givers.  But I can't figure out where the balance is between being a good Christian and really celebrating Christmas, and that seems like such a weird conflict to me. I would never ever suggest someone is a bad Christian because they buy a lot of gifts or because of where they buy them from, but I do think there are parts of these decisions that aren't often considered from a religious perspective, and maybe they could be.

Even though I write this blog, I find it easy to get caught up in the desire to buy great gifts, but the more I think about it, the more I question where the line is between gift-giving that brings people closer together and closer to God vs. gift-giving that really has lost the plot. This is a weirdly personal question, and I think the answer might be different for everyone, but I think it's a question worth asking.

This topic has been looming large in my mind the past few weeks- exactly how does our family celebrate Christmas in a way that is faith-based instead of revolving around commercialism? I mostly don't talk about my faith on this blog for a couple of reasons:

1. I make money off this blog (no, not a lot. So far, I have made a whopping 11 dollars) and I don't think Jesus or my relationship with him makes a good product or brand. I think there is a reason that Jesus got so angry when he saw people selling things in a temple. Christianity and commercialism don't mix that well in my opinion.

2. I don't think what I write about is exclusively useful to Christians. Or Liberals. Or environmentalists. The whole point here is that taking care of the Earth is everyone's task, and our over-consumption is everyone's problem. We may all come at it different ways or for different reasons, but changing our approach to material things is beneficial to anyone, no matter their walk of life or how seemingly small the step.

That being said, I do think first of my fellow Christians and my own lived faith this time of year.

And when did we start looking to businesses (whose primary goal by definition is to make money) to be arbiters of our faith? If this day is sacred to us, why would we want Starbucks to use it to sell more coffee? Why would we be so willing to see it sold out, but even worse, be offended when companies aren't using it to schlep cheap goods? Something is wrong here.

I will be honest with you. I am not throwing our Christmas tree away, and I will still be giving presents to loved ones in the next month. At the same time, I am ready to stop just talking the talk about what a shame it is that Christmas is so commercialized. It's time to make a change.

 I think it is time for some concrete goals. Read on if you are with me.

Why Do Christians Give Gifts?

Christmas gifts are important to Christians first because the three wisemen brought gifts for the baby Jesus when he was born. More symbolically still, the gifts refer to Jesus himself as a gift given to the world. In other words, our gifts are meant to mimic the amazing and miraculous gift-giving of God. Lucky for all of us, gifting is apparently His best love language.

The other symbols at Christmas spin off of these two themes. Santa Claus is a modern incarnation of Saint Nicholas, a 4th century Greek bishop who was known specifically for his generosity and giving. He gave to strangers, primarily, which resonates with the wisemen figures, who gifted to Jesus Christ, not to each other.

During the Middle Ages, the stocking tradition was tied to Saint Nicholas's name day, towards the beginning of December. He put gifts in their socks. During the reformation, Martin Luther tied this generosity to the gift of Christ, and Saint Nicholas moved his sock-filling a little later.

Gift giving has moved dates more than once too- because it was modeled after the wise men, some Christian traditions, especially Catholicism, gave gifts at or until Epiphany in Januray (ever wonder where the 12 days of Christmas comes from?).

The Christmas Tree is only about a thousand years old, but the fir tree was part of Pagan rituals before that. Now, it is said to symbolize everlasting life. Which is also a pretty massive present when you think about it.

So even Santa Claus, who often gets a bad rap as the stand in for all Christmas commercialism, ties right back to the gifts of the wisemen and the gifts of Jesus Christ. So this is a part of our tradition, but how does a few humble gifts in a sock turn into gift mountain?

So then, How much is too Much? 

Whatever I think is just enough, it should probably still be less than that. The story of St. Nicholas is about small gifts that make a big difference. The wisemen brought grand but also small gifts.

Right now, the average American parent spends 271 dollars a kid on Christmas gifts. We are in such a rush for our gift shopping that Black Friday is creeping into Thursday. When talking to kids about Christmas, the most commonly asked question is about what they want for themselves.

This obsession with buying gifts, so so many gifts, is costing us in so many ways.

Our generation works constantly to afford all the things we want, rather than spending time together.

Our committed searches for the best deals encourage companies to drop their standards around labor and materials. Jobs are outsourced to places where they can treat people badly. Tons of fossil fuels are  wasted needlessly so those slightly cheaper crayons can travel half way around the world.

I want to underline this again, other human beings also created by God and in His image are treated worse than we can imagine so we can get that cheap gift. In the past few years, it has come out that there are factories using child and slave labor. A factory making clothes for Walmart and other stores YOU shop from was in such poor conditions that a fire killed hundreds of people.

This is not a thing out there that some other mean person did. We helped in this, and we need to change it.

And it doesn't stop there. Those big piles of gifts cause other problems as well. Trees are being cut down at rapid rates when we need them most to keep our air clean and our temperatures down. Beaches are covered daily in garbage, like the plastic those cheap toys come wrapped in. Landfills are filling up and our children's water is being poisoned with plastic.

Now, if we see the planet as a beautiful gift from God, one of the best gifts He has ever given us, how does it make sense to celebrate a day praising Him by destroying his Earth? Or letting people he created be treated that badly? How is that good stewardship?

It would be comforting to feel like this is out of our control, but honestly, most of us are responsible.

Every time I buy something made in Elsewhere, I send the company the message I don't mind, so they will keep doing it. Everytime I buy some cheap piece of junk because it is on sale, I send the market the message that I care more about a good deal than quality or ethics. We are part of the problem, but that means we can be part of the solution too.

We as the body of Christ need to take steps to solve the problem. Now, this is all super depressing, which is the opposite of what you want to feel this time of year, but I think it has potential to be really great.

My suggestion? We start at Christmas. We start cutting down the gifts we buy. We look into more eco-friendly options for the gifts we do buy. This isn't about refusing gifts from others or judging how they live their lives, it's about self-assessing and finding a balance that feels right for each of us individually.

I have 3 new goals this Christmas to keep my giving in line with my faith and my charge to be a steward.

First, is to only buy things that I don't think are doing harm or dishonoring God. I will buy used to keep things out of landfills and to save money. When I have to get a gift new, I will buy things that are environmentally-responsible and made as locally as I can find.

Second, to cut down the number of gifts significantly. No gift mountain here.

Third, to introduce more traditions about giving outside of our household instead of within it. To make donating and giving a regular part of our holiday routine.

So how do We Change our Traditions? 

It's easy enough to say "We will buy less this year," but then the pile looks too small. Or the gifts don't seem quite even. Or it is just so fun to watch a toddler open a gift. I know for myself, it is so so easy to get carried away.

So the real answer is that a Christian Christmas tree can look any number of ways and that "too much" is so different for each person. It's subjective, and I honest to goodness am not out to judge people. Just to figure it out myself.

I have heard the "something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read" idea, and it is a good idea for limiting gifting, but it doesn't have much to do with Christmas. I would make it the birthday rhyme, but we have already decided on one gift and one experience/surprise as our family's birthday formula (awesome and it works).

I read this suggestion on my minimalism and motherhood post, and I want to share it with you, because maybe a variation would be perfect for your family:

"About 8 years ago my sister and I started the tradition of giving our kids 3 gifts each. At my house Santa brings them, at my sister's Santa only fills their stockings and the gifts are from mom and dad.

The gifts each have a meaning correlating with the gifts that the wise men brought to Jesus.

The first gift is their GOLD gift. It is their biggest gift and may be expensive, but not necessarily. It can be the one thing they REALLY want or it can be chosen by the giver. It signifies how valuable they are to the family. It is wrapped in gold paper or has a gold bow on it.

The second gift is their FRANKINCENSE gift. Frankincense was sacred and burned exclusively in the temple. This gift should have something to do with how your child "meets" with God. We've given devotional books, worship CD's, even a pocket cross, or a book that teaches a moral lesson. Frankincense is a white substance, so this gift is wrapped in white paper.

The final gift is their MYRRH present. Myrrh is a resin that was used to scent oils and perfumes. It was also used in preparing bodies for burial, and has special symbolism since Jesus came to earth as a baby only to later die for our sins. It is dark earthy substance so it is wrapped in brown paper. This gift can be something they anoint their body with, like perfume or shower gel, or simply a gift for their body. In the past my kids have received clothing or something to help them keep their body in shape (like skates or anything that helps them be active).

My children LOVE this tradition. I hope it makes someone's Christmas more meaningful."

If you want to read her inspiration, check out this blog. A commenter said that they do a similar thing, gold is something they want, frankincense is something they need, and Myrrh is an experience.

I love this idea, and I especially love the symbolism of the three kings creating a more direct and thoughtful connection to the nativity story. It keeps the number really low, which is important to us (if you buy 3 gifts instead of 30, you can put more thought and money into each one) but it also makes the link between what we do and why we do it spiritual instead of cultural. It more clearly connects what we see at church with what we do at home.

I want to add one other thing to this. These kings came to give gifts to strangers from a foreign land with faith they were worthy of that love. I want to be much more generous about giving out this year, not just within our family but to people who really need it. I saw a tradition of a reverse Advent calendar, where everyday in Advent we add to a basket of items to be donated elsewhere. I think my goal is to spend more time on helping others than shopping.

How do you incorporate giving to others in your family?

How do you manage Christmas gifts at your house? How many presents is too many? Do you think about how the gifts were made or who made them? Has anyone been successful at instituting a smaller, more stewardship-oriented Christmas at their house?

Most importantly, what does being a Christian steward mean to you and how do you live that out at Christmas time?

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Green Christmas 2015: The Mission-Driven Girl's Wishlist

Our next Christmas Shopping Wishlist is from my cousin Rochelle! Shell is the kind of person who is always trying to do better and make the world better for the people around her. She loves to tell a story, and she has a lot of compassion for others. Not surprisingly, when I asked her to write me a Christmas list, she went above and beyond what I asked! 

In Rochelle's own words:

"I chose to focus on social responsibility instead of eco-friendly companies because the social responsibility was more important to me and I found that in most cases a company that practices social responsibility was also environmentally responsible but the reverse was not always the case.  Specifically, I wanted to find companies or stores that have a mission-minded focus.  I want the purchases I make to really mean something.  Not everything on this list will be mission-focused, but I think you’ll find that a lot of them practice some kind of mission."

Shelly made a list of things she wanted for Christmas:

Pajamas 

Candles

Clothes

Long Sleeve Shirts

Make-Up

Wedges

Rochelle had really awesome ideas for where to get these things, so I am going to let her do most the talking and just add a few thoughts of my own onto the end of each item.

I love that she adjusted her list to address the issues that matter the most to her- you should do that too! Think about how your gifts can do more than just get someone another thing. I am in love with her list, so I hope you love it too! 

from Sudara

from Sudara

1. Punjammies – "Every year my mom gets each of us Christmas pajamas that we open on Christmas Eve.  Usually she picks out sets from Kohls or the Gap (I usually pick out my own because I’m weirdly picky about my pajamas).  This year as I started to dig into various companies and social responsibility I found these pajamas and I am in love with them! 

Punjammies are made by a company called Sudara (www.sudara.org) in India.  The women who work for this company are rescued from the sex trade in India and provided housing and education for both themselves and their children.  You can order these adorable clothes direct from their website and styles are available for women, men, and children.  Women’s pajama bottoms run about $45 and that cute India shirt is about $35.  That is only about $20 more than an equivalent sleep set from Gap."

My thoughts- Gah! These pajamas are definitely awesome, and price wise, they are about the same as anything I have found Made in America. Our family does Christmas Ever pajamas too, and I think you could cut down the price slightly by doing Punjammies pants and get a basic (but ethical!) shirt from American Apparel or another Made in America company. Bed Head makes their pajamas in the US as well.

from Kristin Schmucker Shop

2. Candles– "I have been following Kristin Schmucker Shop on Instagram for nearly 2 years and I love pretty much everything in it.  Last year they added these adorable candles to the shop and I remember her posting a picture of her kitchen completely covered in mason jar candles – she makes these all in her own home! The candles are hand-poured with 100% natural soy wax from soy grown in the Midwest.  How cool is that?! And, they’re only about $11 on sale right now!"

My thoughts- Candles are an awesome thing to change course on, and they certainly make great gifts. Smelly candles are often made with paraffin that comes from petroleum! Boo! Using more sustainable materials (like soy or bee's wax) is better for your household and for the world (funny how often those go hand in hand).

Shelly didn't even mention my favorite thing about these candles- they have really pretty calligraphy on them (that seems to be Kristin's primary business) with bible verses. So awesome. If you are looking for other candle options, we are trying Eco Candle and Our Own Candle Company candles. I like the Tiger Mountain Farms beeswax candles and Silver Dollar Candle Co, but my absolute favorites are from Etta Arlene.

from Altar'd State

3. All the clothes from Altar’d State – "I love this store.  Like, I really, really love this store.  I started shopping here about 4 years ago.  My mom bought me my first two items right after I found out I was pregnant with my son and was tired of how bloated I looked (I show about 0.045 seconds after a positive pregnancy test – don’t tell me that I can wear my normal clothes well into the second trimester).  The long cardigan she bought me that day I still have and it is just now started to have a well-worn look.  Plus, it has adorable buttons on the cuffs.  Since then I’ve only bought a couple of items because, to be honest, the clothes are a little pricier than I usually buy.  All of that is seriously changing because  I’m no longer a “fast fashion” consumer and because I realized at the end of the summer that when I wanted to look super cute or put together I absolutely always reached for the two shirts I bought at Altar’d State at the beginning of the summer.

I can’t tell you that absolutely every item made in their store is socially responsible, but they do have certain stamps they put on some items that say “gives back” when the item is a part of their philanthropy program or the vendor is a partner in philanthropy.  This store donates 1% of all sales to local and international charities and they fund employee volunteer hours each month.  And their clothes are freaking cute.  Like, I seriously do want almost all of it.  These 3 tops were each about $40-$60 and the jeans are about $70, so like I said, it’s pricey.  But they last forever so they are great options for anchor pieces in your wardrobe.  The store also has great sales – I got 2 tops at the beginning of the summer for a grand total of $50 and I’m super sad that I can’t figure out how to make them work for winter."

My Thoughts- Altar'd States are all over the Southeastern region, but still remain pretty regional (you can shop from them online). But Shelly's love for them has inspired another Christmas season resolution: we should all take a second to explore a local shop. You know that one store that you walk by but haven't ever gone in? Time to check it out. There are small businesses all over the place that employ our neighbors and often have more priorities than "make more money, get bigger." But you don't know if you don't look, so let's all make a resolution to explore somewhere small before heading somewhere big.

from Krochet Kids

4. The Marni Long Sleeve Shirt from KrochetKids – "Okay, this company is pretty incredible (and they are a vendor partner with Altar’d State!).  This company was started by three guys who were best friends in high school and all learned to crochet.  They started making beanies to sell to locals in their mountain community in Spokane, WA.  Some friends and family eventually encouraged them to teach people in developing countries to crochet as a means of escaping poverty.  They now have over 150 people in Uganda and Peru  who are working, receiving education, and being mentored toward a sustainable future.

What’s even cooler is that each item is signed by the person who made it and you can go to their website and write them a thank you note!"

My Thoughts- Super cool! I love their hashtag #knowwhomadeit.  We bought the bub a hat from them, and it is well-made enough to stand up through way more toddlers. 

from Sephora

5. Colorscience Makeup – "So I heard about this brand thanks to an impulse decision to follow Kaley Cuoco on Instagram.  Evidently this is the make up they use on the set of The Big Bang Theory (sorry, Barbara, I still love it).  This makeup is different for a number of reasons and costs about the same as any department store makeup.  I can’t tell you better than they can, so here is a quote from their website: “Made from 100% healthy, high-integrity minerals, pigments and nourishing ingredients, including antioxidants, peptides, breathable zinc and titanium dioxide. You might have heard or read that we’re doctor approved. This is completely true. We are, in fact, doctor-recommended all over the country.”  It’s makeup that’s actually good for you!

They also have a give back program called “Sunstoppable” with which they teach healthy sun habits.  They also partner with the Women’s Dermatologic Society and the Skin Cancer Foundation to raise awareness about the need for kids’ sun protection during recess and outside playtime.

Their “Everything Matte” set helps give you a shine-free complexion and the whole set will run you $162.40.  I spent about $200 on a similar beauty routine from Clinique last year."

My Thoughts- Awesome! I am currently on a mission to use up my giant archive of make-up, but I did write about green and ethical make up this year. Luckily, some more knowledgable bloggers have already thought about this! Buzzfeed has a very helpful article on sustainable products. Beautylish pointed to ones that don't test on animals!

from Toms.com

6. Tom’s Wedge Booties – We pretty much all know the Toms story by now, but these booties were so cute I had to add them (especially since it’s a company that practices one-for-one).  Again, pricey (since you’re basically buying 2), but they’ll last you ages.

My Thoughts- Shoes are tough to come by made ethically (and this is the most common complaint about Toms), but it's better to invest in something like this than just spending your money on something with less mission. If you want to do a one to one gift, you could also get someone a bear from Bears for Humanity, which sells super cute teddy bears (mostly made in the US), and for every one you buy, one is given to a child in need. 

A Few Bonus Ideas

If you want to give someone a gift that is really helping others, you have tons of great options! TONS. So don't buy from Susan G Komen- it's not a charity, it's basically just a brand. 

from Ornaments for Charity

1. Ornaments for Charity- A family in Nebraska makes Lego Christmas ornaments which they sell for a different charity every year. This year, they are giving 100% of the proceeds to the  Stephen Center and Space Haven. If that doesn't make you feel good about the universe, than what will? This is happening in our house this year, for sure. 

from Sela Designs

2. Sela Jewelry- Sela Designs, out of Wisconsin, sells their fair trade jewelry to give all proceeds to a charity. They also choose different projects- right now, they are working with a Children's Hospital in Ethiopia. I mean, come on. AND the jewelry looks gorgeous. This yellow necklace is currently my favorite. A little more expensive, but the splurge seems worth it! ho wouldn't love to receive a gift like this? 

3. Soaps- You can find tons of fair trade and local soaps, the most ubiquitous in Seattle probably being Alaffia, but you can probably fine something that supports a region that matters to you. I used to think that Bath and Bodyworks was the ultimate "I don't really know you" gift, but I think you could actually use more thoughtful soap gifts to keep loved ones clean and support things that matter to them. 

Does anyone have any other suggestions? How do you combine doing good for other people with giving gifts?

If you are loving this wishlist and want WAY more Christmas inspiration, check out my MegaList, which includes all of the shopping lists from this blog! So much to look at! 

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Throwback Thursday- Green Christmas: A Giving and Outdoorsy Christmas List

This is the newest in a long series of blogs where I implore you through long lists of cute stuff to buy less/better stuff! This Christmas, we will spend a lot of money on gifts. A lot. If we put all that money toward companies that respect their laborers and protect the environment, we can change the world. Every dollar we spend is a vote for the world we want to live in, so every time we buy Made in China junk at a big chain store, we say fast and easy is more important than good. That our selfish wants are more important than other's needs. I don't think that's what anyone really thinks, especially at Christmas, but I think it can feel like we don't have any choice. We do! So here is another shopping list to show that no matter what a person cares about, you can find them awesome, eco-friendly and socially-responsible gifts. We can do it!

Melissa and I have been friends since the 8th grade, when she was the only one who showed up to help me paint my bedroom. This friendship was solidified forever when we chased a cute red head boy around on a Spanish Cruise (in Pittsburgh). I just think she is a kind and wonderful person, and her new church and home in Colorado suits her perfectly. We care about a lot of the same things, and we love talking about issues, but there is one area where we clearly differ- outdoorsiness. Melissa and her hubby Alan go hiking, they do adventurey sports, and they wake up at dawn to see beautiful sunrises on their trips (we, on the other hand, sleep in, eat a lot, and hopefully look at old stuff). Because of this, she has all sorts of wisdom to share about what to buy the hiker you love, but even better, she has some great insight about what really matters this season:

"When B first tasked me with me creating a Christmas Wish list, I didn’t know what to list. A and I had already talked that we didn’t really want much for Christmas, and we’d simply save our money for retirement and emergency savings. (Remember, it’s never too early to save for retirement, but that’s not the subject of this post.)

That being said, when I began to think about a possible list, I quickly came up with lots of new things that I simply had to have. But the reality is, most of us have everything (and more) than what we need.
With that in mind, I first want to encourage you to look outside of yourself and see how you can give to those that need it the most. "

One of my absolute favorite things about doing these wishlists this year is that almost everyone who has written to me has their own things that matter more to them than the gifts. We all have things we "need," but we also all have things we care about deeply. I feel like this is really important, and one of the best parts about it is that to effectively donate in someone's honor, you need to know what they care about. You have to get to know them that much better, which is just another way I am positive that shifting our paradigm has a super positive ripple effect. Take it away, Melissa:

"Here are two organizations that my partner and I support and love:

1: Project Education South Sudan. This organization started because of an amazing woman in my church in Denver, Colorado. She and her husband were mentors to the “Lost Boys of Sudan”. That commitment birthed PESS. Now celebrating 10 years, PESS has helped thousands by partnering with South Sudanese communities in building schools and supporting young women. Daniel Majok Gai, one of the “Lost Boys”, is now the Executive Director of PESS. He is an incredible, inspiring human being. Under his new leadership, PESS is continuing to start new initiatives like making feminine hygiene products for young women. This not only creates jobs and economic growth for communities, but also provides young welcome the chance to continue to go to school during menstruation. When we grow up in our context, it’s hard to imagine not going to school because of menstruation; but millions of young girls can’t go to school because they don’t have the resources. I have met Daniel and a number of members of their board- they are extraordinary, and so is this mission and work. Go to their website for more info: http://projecteducationsouthsudan.org/ .

2: Episcopal Relief and Development. When you support Episcopal Relief and Development, you help millions of people across the world by fighting poverty, eradicating hunger, and eliminating disease. Go to this link: http://www.episcopalrelief.org/what-you-can-do/gifts-for-life to purchase a “Gift for Life”. ERD also has a very high rating as a non-profit, 85% of the money collected goes to the product and services it says it delivers. Remember, check the charity’s rating before you donate, so that your money goes to services and not overhead and corporate."

Now, Melissa's Christmas Wish List:

1. A Microwave Safe Egg Bowl: "I’ve been cooking eggs in the microwave every morning for the past couple of months. It saves time, calories, and it’s still debatable whether non-stick pans can potentially release a dangerous gas that is both hazardous to humans and birds alike."

from amazon

My Ideas- Alright, this one is pretty simple. One good option- Nordicware sells a microwave breakfast pan. It's microwave-safe, made in America, and actually cheaper than some of the less ethical options. Simple, easy, done!

2. Hiking undergarments- "Because Christmas is the season you get socks and underwear; I am always on the lookout for ethically made socks, underwear, and sport bras."

from REI- Darn Tough Socks

My Ideas- Alright, I started at REI for this, because I figure that is where outdoorsy people shop (truly, I do not know much about that kind of stuff). Also, they are closing for Black Friday! How cool is that! Lucky for me, there are lots of stores that specialize just in these things! Darn Tough socks are super cute, made in the US, and come in a variety of designs and thicknesses. Smart Wool sells socks for cold sports (mostly skiing?) and they look pretty intense for those hikes up in the snow-covered Rockies (here's a hiking-specific pair). Brooks Essentials sells socks specifically designed to keep your feet dry. Hanz sells waterproof socks as well.

REI sells lots of Made in the US socks for camping, hiking, and biking (also, riding on planes and recovering from surgery). They even have their own co-op socks, which are made in the US and come in at a measly 10 dollars. These socks are hardcore, but most don't come cheap. Is it weird to buy someone a single pair of socks for Christmas? Maybe, but if the socks last longer than 4 pairs of junky ones, I think you might be on to something!

REI also sells a good collection of long underwear made in the States from Polarmax (these are even on sale). Ibex Energy Free Tights claim to keep you warm all day, but the name makes me wonder if they somehow Dementor suck the energy out of your legs.

3. Stretchy bracelets- "I love these! You can mix and match and stack as many as you’d like."  

from hecho a mano

My Ideas- Oh, you know Etsy has tons of these, so I only picked a couple I like, but if you want to go that route, check Etsy first (and order in the next week or two). Feel like it's too many options? Put in a city near you or the giftee in the location box on the left side towards the bottom, it should narrow it down, and you are supporting something local! In Melissa's case, you can find 1000 (I am not kidding) options if you put in "bracelet" and "Boulder, CO." Hecho a Mano make my favorite ones that I saw, super fun and bright.

from tuchela

Tuchela sells big stacks of them (for 7 dollars!) that come in all sorts of color combinations. I thought this set was pretty, but I think you could get these as awesome stocking stuffers. Moon Lab Jewelry sells multiple bracelets that i think look really subtle and sophisticated.

4. A Paracord Survival Bracelet- "This could very well go into number three, but its uses are more for outdoor survival than fashion. See various uses here: http://www.outdoorlife.com/blogs/survivalist/2013/04/paracord-bracelets-10-practical-uses-other-fashion"

from Amazon

Just to Add- Wow! First of all, I didn't know these existed. That girl is so much earthier than I am. But you can find lots of them! And a good number are made here in the States! Survival Straps come in lots of pretty and bright color combinations, as well as more practical earthy ones. Tactical Wilderness ones look great, and they have a compass in them! That's helpful if you get lost a lot (though, as someone else who is often lost, let me recommend not going on long confusing walks in the woods). Mountaineer sells a nice looking one in the color "Olive drab" Seriously, why would anyone buy clothing with drab in the title?!?

If you have lots of outdoorswo/men in your life, you can buy a large kit from Paracord Ninja and make them as gifts! How cool!

from Topo Designs

5. A ski back pack- "In the outdoor world, folks are always creating new product for niche uses. I have my day hiking pack, my back packing pack, my rock climbing pack, well you get the idea. Since I ski twice a week on average, tt’d be nice to have one specifically designed for skiing." 
Just to Add- Ok, I didn't find much US-made for ski backpack (I did find quite a few snowshoes though). I did find airbag ski bags, which I am not convinced are the same thing (I also found carriers for your skis and your boots made in America). Like I said, not super impressive, but maybe one of these would work for skiing?

I did find some just regular backpacks that might be great for someone you love. My pick for Melissa would be Topo designs, who are based out of Colorado, just like her! These backpacks have really cool but functional designs, and they partner with other great American brands.like Woolrich. This one is my favorite for her.

My other top pick would be from Green Guru Gear, which is made out of all sorts of recycled materials (part of their company mission is providing a recycling source for adventure sports). Their backpacks seem to primarily be made for biking, but I think they could be awesome for lots of purposes. Plus, they are made in the USA and all-recycled, so you know I love them. New favorite. If only I enjoyed adventure sports!

Tough Traveler makes a wide variety of durable backpacks that might be great for skiing! We bought a suitcase from them as a gift, and I can vouch for their greatness. Clinton at North Street Bags makes backpacks that look tough, but are in pretty colors! Equinox, who I also love, makes backpacks and backpack covers (in case she could repurpose another bag). Utility Canvas makes really simple backpacks as well.

As a side note, Melissa and Alan are also big photographers, and I found some very tough, but good-looking camera bags. If you have a landscape photographer/ adventurer in your life, I might stop first at Domke. These are serious bags, so this only works if the giftee REALLY takes their photography seriously.

6. This quote “Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air” printed on something- "As we know, and with the help of this blog, what we surround ourselves with, and what we use, matter. I love this quote and want to put it up on my desk to always encourage me to adventure into the unknown and experience God’s love for us in creation."
Just to Add- Gah, I love this one! As Melissa could tell you, I love buying she and Alan art, frames and decorations. Our style is so different- I am a colorful mismatched quilt that doesn't make much sense, she is a crisp but warm comforter in a single color with a clean repeating organic pattern embroidered on. I have a whole folder of things I see that are Melissa things, because it's fun to play in her aesthetic.

from words and page

Apparently, Melissa has tons of company admiring this Ralph Waldo Emerson quote. I found lots of pretty options! This one might be my absolute favorite, words and page does beautiful calligraphy (and it's on recycled paper). It's simple and clean, but it still reminds me of the outside. There are lots of pretty calligraphic options, which feel really special even if they are simple.

This ceramic sign is refreshingly simple in comparison to the content of the quote- maybe too much? I can't decide, but it does remind me of a book page. This embroidery hoop is clean and feminine, so it might look perfect in an office. If you want to get something like that as a gift but you don't have much money, you could also get a downloadable one like this one and print it out! The last option I really like on Etsy is this wall decal which I think looks really sophisticated and might be perfect in an office.

If you have someone in your life milling over this idea, I would recommend making them an art print with the quote, but use their own photograph! This would especially work for Mel and Alan, because they take spectacular landscape photographs together.

from Western Mountaineering

7. The Big Gift- "Growing up, Santa always brought one big gift whether it be a bike or a Barbie Dream House. My two big gift wishes would be a winter sleeping bag and a new digital piano. I know, opposite ends of the spectrum, but it is what it is. A and I went winter camping 10 years ago in college. I froze to death and still have never gotten over it. We stayed together, but my bitterness remains. For the piano, I started taking lessons with Miss Darlene in Longmont this August. While I have a keyboard, we have progressed quickly and I need the functions (like 88 keys and a pedal) faster than I expected."

Just to Add- First of all, I know the kind of sleeping bag she is talking about (because she told me, to be clear) and they are for really really cold nights (and not just cold like her bitterness, cold like I am not even going outside), and I am not sure what I found hits that level of winter-ness. My pick would be Western Mountaineering, which is only sold in stores, so you have to put your zipcode in and go. They have tons of choices, all organized by horrifying temperatures (I cannot empathize with the desire to sleep in -25 degree weather). They also don't have prices, which makes me feel like I can't afford them because I had to ask. Wiggy's also sells Made in America sleeping bags. Butler Bags makes an all-seasons bag which might not be hardcore enough for Melissa, but it might be perfect for who you are shopping for!

Second, Keyboards. These are tough! Yamaha does have six factories in the US, and from what I can tell, they are the only major brand that does (avoid Casio, boo Casio). Still, I can't seem to find any straightforward answers about which of the keyboards are made domestically and what are made internationally. If you can find that info, send it my way and i will update this!

A Few More Ideas

A Cozy Blanket- Faribault and Woolrich sell blankets that look tough enough for a camping trip and cozy enough for a living room. These aren't cheap either, but I feel like it's a special gift that will last a very long time, even if they have a tough ride out in the woods. Faribault also has a special place in my heart, because they are doing a buy one/ give one program this winter, so for every blanket or scarf you buy from them, they will donate a blanket to help Minnesota's homeless population. That's awesome, and it might be the perfect combination of Melissa's wishlists!

National Park's Monopoly- I love this board game so much for Melissa and Alan, because I feel like they explore national parks more than any other family I know, and like I have said before, travelers love dreaming of future travels. This might be a cool way to do it! Maybe they could play it while hosting?

from REI

Boots- I am not talking cutesy riding boots here, I am talking hiking boots. But they can still be cute! I especially like these ones from Keen, for those wintery hikes up in the mountains.

Camera Bags and Straps- As a side note, Melissa and Alan are also big photographers, and I found some very tough, but good-looking camera bags. If you have a landscape photographer/ adventurer in your life, I might stop first at Domke. These are serious bags, so this only works if the giftee REALLY takes their photography seriously.

You could also get your hardcore photographer one of these cool Luma Loop straps, which might be particularly helpful for someone who has to move around a lot to get their shot.

Water Bottles- You can read about my beloved reusable water bottles elsewhere, but Liberty Bottle now takes the cake. I love this so much, and I will probably buy it for Melissa. Spoiler Alert. Also reading Liberty Bottle's website, I am very encouraged by their priorities as a company, making more jobs and creating less waste.

But outdoorsy people need water bottles. Everyone needs a reusable water bottle- let 2016 be the year we stop using those horrible plastic one time use monsters.

Tents- If you have an aspiring outdoorperson on your list (or have been thinking about a tent yourself) you have good options! Beckel Canvas Tents look like the kind Ron Swanson would like (if he couldn't make his own lean to). Springbar also has lots of great options, so you can get out there and camp it up (maybe in the spring? Unless you have a winter sleeping bag and a will of steel).

Alright, I hope this list gave you inspiration for the outdoorsy person you love! Remember to look at the thrift and vintage stores nearby too, because you might find something on your list for a better price and a more eco-friendly option!

If you are still feeling shoppy, check out my big honking list of lists for more shopping ideas!

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60 Green Stocking Stuffers for Kids

In my family, we make amazing Christmas stockings (or Santa does). We take gifting very seriously, but I didn't realize how good my Dad is at this very particular type of giving until I was an adult. The key is to use magazine to make the whole thing taller and to have lots of silly things in the stocking.

 I love a great stocking, so even though the plan is to cut down the gift-buying in our household by A LOT, I would never cut the stocking. In fact, this year my plan is to do no more than four gifts and a stocking. That's it.

For kids, you can fill a stocking with cute little toys and treats that might be surprise hits for the holiday. I try to master that balance between cheap but practical items like socks or nail clippers (my Mother in Law's genius addition every year) and super fun kitschy items (usually random finds at target).

I stand by this equation, but the problem here is that when you are hanging out in the "cheap junk" aisle at Target, you certainly aren't being a good steward. That stuff is often so cheap because it is made somewhere where the person making it is treated very poorly. It's often made of plastic, and it has traveled a long way, wasting fossil fuels, for basically no reason. So triple whammy against my beloved stocking stuff. So I have started to approach it a new way.

Last year, I tried to do this, and I had a lot of successes. I am pretty sure we still took a last minute run to Target to fill out the goodies. Having done this once already, I am confident that isn't necessary, and I am pretty excited to do an all-ethical stocking this year.

Even better, I don't have to break the bank. Everything on this list is under 15 dollars! 

 One of the most common complaints lodged against Eco-friendly and Made in America Products is that they are too expensive, so people only think about greener options when they will make a BIG difference! But anyone's who has ever been on a successful diet can tell you, small changes can make the largest difference if you stick with them! So maybe this isn't the same super cheap, kitschy toy that lined our stockings before, but you can find equally fun, strange, and hilarious stuff without ever feeling like an eco-terrorist. Even a few switches out can make a big impact!

You can find toys that are plenty affordable made right here in the US. I am excited to try to load that sock with gifts that do good but don't break the bank.

Three Steps to an Awesome Kids Stocking

1. Get Things Used- I have never bought Christmas gifts used before, but I am going for it this year, especially with our Bub, who could care less whether something is new or used. My favorite for this is the mixed toy bags at Goodwill. We already bought most of the Bub's filler with two bags of Duplos. Why do people buy duplos new?

I can find so many cute toys in consignment stores, not to mention practical things like socks or hats! If you spend 2 dollars on a little toy or stuffed animal you can clean, that beats anything you will buy new! A trip to a kids consignment store or Goodwill can check off most of your boxes immediately.

2. Buy American, Eco-friendly, or Fair Trade- THIS. This change in priorities can ripple out to make a better world for the kid you fill the stocking for. That's more important than anything you can give. Look at the challenge to find these things as fun instead of intimidating- this is why we start early!

3. Re-think your Regular Candy Choices- This deserves its own post, but you might try to support some local candy before you do the same old from Hershey's (I want to love them, but I just can't anymore). You can find cool stuff right under your nose! Chocolate is an especially hot button topic for treats, so check with your local candy store and think about buying some fair trade chocolate.

Alright, let's get to the links-

I am coming up with a shorthand so you can get the information you want fast. This is the key:
The key- USA= Made in the USA, GU= Get this Used, EF- Eco-Friendly, R=Recycled Materials, Fair Trade= FT

I wouldn't expect anyone to buy everything on this list, but the key is to notice you have TONS of options. You can get anything- from super fun to completely practical- made ethically, in the United States, and with good stewardship for the environment!

Bath Toys

1. Bath Crayons (USA)- BeeUtifully Organic makes organic bath crayons that will make such for such a fun time! I want to play with these. Messy Play Kits or Krazy Kool Kits sell bath crayons too.

from Lotsaduck

2. Rubber Duckies (USA)- Everyday when I make my way to the tubbie! I find a little fellow who's cute and yellow and chubby! Lotsaduck is based out of Pittsburgh and has all sorts of adorable rubber duckies- sadly, they are closing, but you can get a good deal there right now. Celebriducks has a line of Made in the USA ducks (a little on the nose with the signage though). We bought The Bub the very simple yellow version, and it continues to be a big hit.

from Cozy Chipmunk

3. Washcloths and Puppets (USA)- These Huggable Hoots puppets look super cute and you can stuff them into a stocking easily. It might be a perfect combination of fun and practical. I also love this simple Crocodile washcloth. You can also try Granny's Craftiness or Stockings by Pat.

If you are crafty (and quick), there are some great patterns on Etsy for this kind of thing as well.

from Southern Skye Beauty

4. Fun bars of Soap (USA) - I get that soap as a gift sounds lame, but I think cool soap could be a big hit.  My favorites are these dinosaur soaps from Southern Skye Beauty. I also found mermaid soap, bath crayon soap, game controllers (check out this whole shop- looks cool!), lego soap, and because the world is wonderful macaroni and cheese soap.

Begin Again on Amazon

5. Begin Again Bathtub Toys (EF)- These bath toys are made of rubber, so no plastic, and they are dishwasher safe to make it easy on you. Also, the deep sea diver is just cool. The company is based out of Fort Collins Colorado, but I am not convinced they are actually made there.

For the Especially Little People

from the ivy lantern

6. Bibs (USA)- Your baby is so smart. But not smart enough to be disappointed when you just buy a bunch of things you need and stuff it in a stocking for their first Christmas. Bibs make for a perfect bottom layer (since it's probably too soon for candy).  Swaddle Designs makes cute inexpensive ones as well. If you want to do something a little more trendy, these super cute (and usefully neutral) bandana bibs from The Ivy Lantern. There are about 4 million bibs on Etsy so you can find what you want, but here is another long list to browse- Organic Mama Design, The Pleated Petal, Le Petite Birdie, and Bananas Boutique.

7. Feeder (USA)- These chewy feeders are so helpful when you start baby on solids or when they start to teeth (ice or frozen fruit inside and let them gnaw). May not be a regular purchase, but a nice little splurge for a stocking!

from amazon

8. First Set of Keys (R, EF, USA)- Both Green Toys and Re-play sell sets of all recycled plastic key rings. The Bub loves his; they are really good to shake. These are pretty cheap, made in the USA, and use recycled materials; I don't understand why anyone would buy other sets!

9. Jumbo Beads (USA)- Another Classic for babies, this Holgate toy helps them string beads and work on that hand eye coordination. This has been made here in the US since 1948! Also, it is awesome for an airplane time-passing toy.

10. Link Toys (USA)- Boomering Links are a perfect toy for anybody under 2. Simple often entertains them longer, and these links can easily be thrown in a purse, brought on a plane, or strewn through a car seat. Great toy and super cheap.

11. Onesies (USA)- You could get a funny or special onesie you might not splurge on otherwise.  My favorites are from Honest Elements and Jam Jam Jams. I love this Parks and Rec one from Baby Swag (out of Butler,PA!), but you should poke around on Etsy and get something that makes you smile or laugh. You can also check out buggy and bubba, Little Jonesies, and The Little Stork.

from Little Sidekick

12. Soft Blocks (USA)- Tactile soft blocks give the baby a well-rounded sensory experience. My bub loved toys like these, but you can get ones for the same amount as in the stores on Etsy, and you will be supporting a local maker instead of a big corporation. Woot! Arrows and Olives Baby sells cost-effective and pretty ones. My favorite are these high contrast ones from Little Sidekick, because those black and white patterns will totally catch a little one's eye. More options? Try Burgandy Bee Handmade,

13. Spoons and Forks (R, USA)- Yeah, this may not seem like the most fun, but you can buy one of the Green Eats sets (or just the spoons!) that will last you for years and they will fit perfectly in a stocking (and a diaper bag). Plus, my 2 year old would say forks and spoons are the most fun toys in the whole world. He loves playing with them.

from little sapling toys

14. Teether (USA, EF)- You have about a billion choices here, so you can get something really cool.  Lifefactory's teethers have been staples in our house when the baby was teething (and he just likes touching the different patterns as well). I would recommend these teethers to anyone. You can teach geography and chewing with Little Sapling Toy's state-shaped teethers, which are basically the coolest thing I've seen. I love these Feltman and Co. ones as well. Begin Again's simple teething ring wins awards and parents' love, so this might make a great gift for your little person! They won't be toothless forever! Manzanita Toys is guaranteed to have something you will love as well.

With Baby Two, I am pretty obsessed with black and white, high contrast stuff, because they really can enjoy it more. I like the cloth bunny teethers in black and white- Kadydid Designs, Pippa Ollie, and Baby Sprouts Co.

from Mom N Daughter Creation

15. Toy and Pacifier Strap (USA)- When your bub is little, you lose toys and cups all the time, they are always throwing them or dropping them, so I think the toy strap makes a lot of sense. I like the name bottle  leash too, so funny! I like this toy strap best, because it is so smart and makes so much sense. Good job Mom N Daughter Creation! Etsy has plenty of options- Henley's Headbands, The Chipped Cup, The Stitched Co, Fawn and Finn, and Clover and Birch.

16. Pacifiers (USA)- Why not just buy things that you actually need? Spoiler alert, your baby will not remember or comprehend their first Christmas, even if they are a whip of a baby. Really you should fill their stocking with cake for you. Some Nuk silcon pacifiers were made here, and they have glowing reviews.The Philips Avent Soothies are made in the US, and they were the only ones we had any luck with

17. Mittens and Hats- Great gifts and fit perfectly in a stocking. Kudos to you if you can make them yourself. My favorite are these mittens using recycled fabric from Gypsy and Lolo.

18. Car Seat Toys- I love these hanging jellyfish. Something for them to swat at.

Fun and Creative

19. Clay (USA)- Sculpey Clay became one of my favorites in my time teaching art to kids. It doesn't dry out easily, so they have time to fiddle, and if they make something they want to keep, you can set it in the oven. You can get packs in all different sizes, including small ones that might fit in a stocking.

from amazon

20. Colored Pencils (R)- I love these colored pencils made out of recycled newspaper instead of wood (they have a mini size for little fingers). They come in cute tubes that would fit perfectly in a Christmas sock!

21. Coloring Books (USA,R)- Not all are made in the USA, so always check, but many still are. You can get ones that are recycled and even teach your kid about environmentalism! This one is my favorite- so cute! My new favorite doing research this year is Wee Gallery's How to Dress a Fox (they have 5 different animals to choose from). These books are so cute, and they are made of recycled paper and soy ink- win! They sell recycled coloring murals too.

This doodle book looks really fun and different as well. This can be a perfect way to work in your little one's favorite character- Barbie, Anna and Elsa, Hello Kitty, Etsy has plenty too, from hymn lyrics to cutesy owls. My dad uses these and magazines to wrap around in the stocking to make it taller/ able to hold even more stuff. I kid you not, he's the master.

from Extra Money for Mommy

22. Crayons (USA,R)- Did you know you can get crayons in any shape ever? Any shape? And they are recycled from all those nubbins you would just throw away? You can get them in your kid's name, seashells, Chocolate Bars, dinosaurs, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I love these eco-friendly crayons too, because they are completely biodegradable. You could also try Honey Sticks which are made of beeswax.

As an aside, when you are in the aisle with the crayons trying to make a pick, Crayola is actually probably your best bet. Stay away from the other brands, most are made overseas. Plus, Crayola is never that much more expensive. So just remember to go with Crayola if you are doing your shopping in Target.

23. Lacing Toys (USA)- Mama Made Them makes sweet whale lacing toys that might be the perfect start for a future sewer. Animal ones like this elephant are fun as well. Maple Landmark also has a set of wooden lacing toys.

from ordinary artists

24. Little Notebooks (USA)- Is there anything with more possibility than a fresh new notebook? I love these little ones from Ordinary Artists that would make perfect stocking stuffers. My beloved Decomposition Books, made from recycled paper and soy ink in the US, would be perfect as well. The Bub loves the little drawings they have on the cover and inside. If your kid is cool or manly, Field Notes has notebook sets as well.

25. Markers (USA, R)- I love Crayola. They actually collect old dried up markers and put them back into use again in their simple marker sets. I love that. I will give them all of my marker budget (larger than you might imagine) forever. Out of the box, perfect fit for a stocking. 

26. Stickers and Temporary Tattoos (USA)- Somebody has Frozen fever? Ok, everyone does. Something about those sisters. If your bub loves Frozen but you don't want to ship your money to China, look into these stickers or these ones.  They can be creative, spice up stuff the kiddo's already own, and many are still made in the US! I have also seen princess and Sofia the First stickers made here.

from Pretty Tape

27. Washi Tape (USA)- I feel like I would have loved these as a kid, and its another gift you could use to spruce up anything! These are fun and different, and open up lots of avenues for creative play that you can still pick up. These mint green ones are adorable.

28. Finger Paint (USA)- I bought finger paint at our local toy store that was made in the US. Simple and fun,

Fun Little Things

from Pearl and Violet

29. Bookmarks (USA, R)- Let's encourage that reading with fun bookmarks! My absolute favorites are from Pearl and Violet, because you can get your favorite characters poking out of your new favorite book! Owl makes bookmarks you can put pictures in out of recycled leather. If you are looking for something you can personalize, or maybe encourage your kids to gift, these plain Made in the USA bookmarks could be decorated to look amazing. Peggy's Passions makes spoon bookmarks that are so cute and can be personalized. My last favorite are Ryan Sheffield's author bookmarks.

from Ornaments 4 Charity

30. Christmas Ornaments (USA)- It would be kind of a cool tradition to put an ornament in their stocking each year that has to do with their year, then they can hang it on the tree. If you want ones made in the USA that also do good, Ornaments 4 Charity (which seems to be one amazing family) makes adorable lego ornaments and gives 100% of the proceeds to charity. So awesome!

I love this little hedgehog one as well, but you can find so many Made in the USA ornaments on Etsy.

31. Dinosaurs(USA)- The USA company that makes little green soldiers also makes dinosaur plastic toys. I personally like the Galaxy Laser Team better.

from Adopt an Alien

32. Key Chains (USA)- I love these Adopt an Alien ones, and I remember really enjoying them as a kid, despite not having any keys.  These squid ones are adorable too. Cookies and popsicles, too! You can find it all.

33. Henna Stencils and Temporary Tattoos (USA)- These are in, and they look like so much fun. You can bring any character in through these things, and you can find lots of adorable ones. Is it inappropriate to give children tattoos? I don't know, but I would put one on my child, so lucky boy.

from Treasured FC

34. Wooden Smart Phones (USA)- These teethers are hilarious, and I think the wooden smart phone might make a great imaginative toy as well.

35. Magic Wands (USA)- I actually think these simple wood magic wands look really pretty and chic unfinished, but decorating them with markers might be fun? Or you can just get to casting spells right away.

Learning Toys

36. Cards (USA)- Bicycle Standard Cards are made here in the US. Classics. Perfect gift for an older child? Time to start learning magic tricks.

37. Puzzles (GU, USA)- You could get puzzles at basically any level and then put them in the stocking broken up. This seems especially cool, because they wouldn't know what they were putting together! This is one you can definitely find in consignment stores for kids, but there are some made in the USA Maple Lamdmark makes a bunch, including this bulldozer, around 15 dollars. For older kids, you can do one of these giant floor puzzles made of recycled materials in the US. For even older kids, you can find puzzles made of all recycled materials- a California map or this Wonderous Ocean One.

38. Sandwich Stackers (R, USA)- I worked briefly at a Chrildren's Museum that had these Green Toys Sandwich Toys, and I couldn't believe just how much the kids loved them from toddlers to older kids playing restaurant.  I think they might fit a stocking perfectly and be that toy you didn't expect to be a hit, but they play with them all the time. So simple. So genius.

39. Spinny Spellers (USA)- These wood toys help new readers to play with letters and words. You can get critter ones for the smaller set.

Soft and Cuddly

from the marmalade forest

40. Eggs and Bacon Octopus (USA)- I love this breakfast monster so much. I am not sure a child would love it, but I would love you for buying this for your child.

41. Pocket Tidbits (USA)- Don't write these little crocheted balls off too quickly. You can also buy them little outfits, so this one may be a huge hit.

42. Safety Cones (USA)- Etsy, you give me faith in the universe. Thank you for these Plush Engineer safety cones.

43. Sloth Plushies (USA)- Because I hear sloths are the meaning of Christmas. I kid, but these are cute. Also from Plush Engineer, because this store is a treasure.

from Anns Craft House

44. Soft Game Controller (USA)- Another winner. The Boy is already training The Bub to sit and use the other controller while he plays. I am sure that's not developmentally sound, but these soft versions are cute.

45. Stuffed Elephant, Bunny, or Zebra (FT,R)- These little stuffed animals are exceptionally cute, and they help support women get good jobs in Malawi. Another cute little way to do good with your Christmas shopping!

from Fuzzigles

46. Puffy Balls of Awesome (USA)-  If I were buying stuffed animals for my kids for Christmas, these Fuzzigles are what I would (actually, probably will) pick. It's hard to pick a favorite.

Stuff that Moves

from amazon

47. Elephant on Wheels (EF, R, USA)- Made out of recycled plastic milk jugs (and saving TONS of energy. I didn't even realize how much), this Green Toy on wheels could be a perfect gift for someone without great hand eye dexterity (I love the pig and turtle as well). A good second Christmas stocking stuffer.

48.  Matchbox Cars (USA)- Bad news, Hot Wheels are not great for the environment, much like their regular-sized car counterparts. That doesn't mean you can't find other ice cream trucks and race cars made stateside! And TONS of used Hot Wheels are out there. I love these little Maple Landmark cars. Holgate also makes wood cars that are adorable and local. Green Toys sells adorable racecars (including a pink one!), but it might cramp the stocking- I would recommend these smaller cars instead.

49. Yoyos (USA)- Another classic gift. I never got good at a yoyo, but if your child is older than 2, he or she is already more coordinated than I am.

50. Tops (USA)- I can't remember being too psyched about tops when I was a kid, but these simple ones from Maple Landmark might be just the kind of challenge that makes the holiday fun. A throwback in a good way.

Making Noise

from Amazon

51. Kazoos (USA)- Gah, I love a good kazoo. A staple at my Grammy's house, and my Grammy is the grand poobah of gifting. You can get this one from West Music for 90 cents!

52. Percusion Blocks (USA)- I don't know why you would buy a percussion block for your own child, but maybe to stick in your enemies' childrens' stockings? Evil Santa Claus?

53. Slide Whistle (EF)- This slide whistle, birthed in Gerrmany, will perfectly fill the need for making lots of annoying noise in an eco-friendly cacophany of annoying. Once, we played Reading Rainbow in a talent show on slide whistles. It is my Christmas wish that your children can enjoy a similar moment (we were in our 20's).

54. Train Whistle (USA)- Toot toot! This whistle is perfect for the Thomas-lover you spawned. Maple Landmark makes one too.

Practical Stuff

 

from Pumpkin Bowties

55. Hair Clippies (USA)- You can find a million hair things on Etsy made by a person with their own little business. You can buy your children hair stuff for little money. Here are some hair clips and hair bows like these from Masterpieces of Fun Art. Sparkly hair ties. Lots of sparkly hair ties. Minion Hair Ties. Frozen hair ties. Disney hair clippies.

56. Nail Clippers (USA)- My Mother in Law gives nail clippers in stockings every year. Genius, because nail clippers seem to disappear so quickly. I don't know where they go, but you never find them. You can start the tradition early with these baby clippers. For bigger kids, bigger clippers.

57. Sippy Caps (USA)- We got these caps this Christmas to add to our Lifefactory bottles, which you already know I am obsessed with. If you are getting to the sippy cup phase, think about going glass or recycled!

58. Socks (USA, R)- Solmate Socks are my favorite. We just bought a set for the bub (they come in sets of 5. How cute is that? Perfect fun socks to put in a stocking. We recently became huge fans of Pact socks as well.

59. Toothbrush (R, USA)- Preserve makes toothbrushes out of recycled plastic. They are completely beloved by our toddler, so this may seem like a bummer gift, but I think it makes a lot of sense. If you have a truly little little one, the banana toothbrush was also well-loved here. If you are trying to make gifting about things your child needs, not just what they want, this could be a good step.

Re-Play from Amazon

60. Snack Containers (R, USA)- Maybe fill these absolutely wonderful replay Snack Stacks with other treats to gift them? Like put some candy  or another surprise inside? Mix red and green for a festive feel. Then you will have snack containers and cut down on wasteful zip loc bags. Win!

Lastly, BUY YOUR CANDY LOCAL!!! America still has tons of candy companies working in the US, so there is no reason to buy those Hershey kisses made in Elsewhere. Buy less candy, but buy good candy. I hope you found lots of inspiration for your stockings here!

If you are interested in green shopping inspiration, check out the List of Shopping Lists! You can transform your shopping this Christmas!

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