Green Christmas- An Impossible Shopping List

I had The Boy send me another Christmas list for this year. He is a tough one, because really doesn't want much of anything. If he feels like we need it, he has probably already bought it. But maybe you also have an impossible to shop for person in your life?

 It's tough when you are trying to be eco-friendly, because you don't want to buy wasteful gifts, but it is also probably a bad idea to get your partner nothing for Christmas (unless you guys have worked that out between yourselves, of course). So here are my best responses to his requests, and hopefully it helps you with the impossible person you have on your list!

from Topos Designs

Hooded Rain Jacket

 I hate hoods, but having multiple umbrellas destroyed by the wind, I am coming to understand why people don't use them in Seattle. 

Here are a couple I have found some pretty awesome rain jackets. Also, super expensive. I am not sure whether to go this route, but if i do, this is all he is getting. Plus, I imagine this would get daily use for many years, so maybe it is worth doing something more substantial.

Freeman Rain Jackets- If you are going to buy a rain jacket, maybe do it from a company in Seattle. We know rain. This jacket was made by a couple who couldn't find a jacket they liked, so they made their own. Freeman jackets are basic in a good way. Again, ridiculously expensive, but completely made in Seattle. You can read more about them here.

Topos Designs- I love the style of these two-toned mountain jackets from Topos. The Boy got a backpack from them that is tough without being too outdoorsy and practical without being gigantic. This Colorado-based company is a gem. Again, not cheap, but it would last a long time.

Patagonia- This company is beloved by environmentalists (even bourgeois ones like me) because  environmental responsibility is at the center of their mission as a company. You can track their supply chain, and even though it is all over the world, you can see exactly how their labor is treated. This year, they even donated all of their Black Friday profits (some 10 million dollars, not chump change) to grassroot environmentalist groups. Plus, they make great coats and fleeces.

Columbia also makes an eco-friendly rain jacket out of recycled water bottles. I am pretty excited about their ideas, so be sure to check them out.

Jeans

 I am down to 2 pairs that I actually like that fit. 

He has started shopping for these on his own (see?!? I told you. He makes it so hard because he just does it himself!) and the two he has found that he likes (he told me not to say "really likes." They haven't earned it yet) are from Gustin and Flint and Tinder.

The Boy is on to something; jeans are one of those things that actually have a ton of made in America options. They are expensive, so you need to have a smaller wardrobe of jeans to make it work. Maybe only 3 pairs would do the trick. Gustin and Flint and Tinder both specialize in lower price premium denim (between 80 and 100 dollars a pair), but you still aren't going to buy a pile of them as gifts.

Ok, more options for jeans, because plenty exist:

Levi's have some, but not a lot, so make sure before you buy. Naked and Famous (another "entry level" option, made in Canada), Earnest Sewn, Imogene and Willie, J Brand, Mission Workshop, AG Jeans, Jean Shop, LC King, Rogue Territory, Roundhouse Jeans (super affordable), Rag and Bone,  Raleigh Denim Workshop, Rising Sun Manufacturing Co, Self Edge, Tellason, The Stronghold, and Baldwin Denim.

I'm telling you, blue jeans and  craft beers are crazy easy to find made in the USA. Check out the links. Even if they are expensive, get one pair of great jeans and wear them all the time, and they will last you longer than three pairs of junky jeans.

from American Giant

Zip up Hooded Sweatshirt

American Giant. Not the cheapest, but they are made in the USA, super soft, and they LAST. I bought The Boy sweatpants from them last year, and they still get tons of use. American Giant is worth checking out.

American Apparel. Like American Giant in that it is made sweatshop free in the US. Just comes with a lot more sexism and the constant threat of leaving.

If you want something with more style, check some of the jean companies from above. There are plenty of hoodies out there, I just think simpler is better.

Oyster Shucker Kit

 Dexter Russell does make two oyster knives. There is a difference between them, but I can't tell what it is. I found one cut resistant glove as well. Still goes to show you can get the randomest things made in America.

Silicone-tipped Kitchen Tongs 

I worry that I'm poisoning us using the metal tongs on nonstick.

Dang it, Husband, you bested me (but thanks for trying not to poison us). I can't find any silicone-tipped tongs made anywhere nearby. Edlund makes a set of tongs in the US, but they don't have the silicone tip. Check your local Goodwill? This is good advice no matter what kitchen gadget you are on the lookout for. Goodwill has all the kitchen stuff.

Navy Gingham Shirt

 I've been trying to replace one of my favorite shirts that bit the dust last year. I think it was from American Eagle? I went through a serious gingham phase starting about 4 years ago with that shirt. Frank and Oak make my favorite (the Branford gingham) that I own in at least 3 colors, but their navy is super-almost-black dark, so I never kept it, and all of their stuff is definitely not made in the US

Ok, this one is so tricky, because it is so specific. My favorite options are from the New England Shirt Company, but I don't think any are the exact print he wants.

  Gitman Bros has some options that look perfect, but they are 200 dollars, which seems like way too much for a shirt to me. I really like the choices from Individualized Shirts, though it does look like the fabric comes from all over the place.

Baldwin and Filson has blue plaid shirts, but nothing gingham. Rambler's Way has great shirts as well, but nothing gingham.

from The Up North Market

A New Scarf

 I haven't actually figured out scarves as an adult man, but the one I do own was attached by moths

 I should say, as his wife, this man is not getting a scarf. At least not from me. His neck has never been that cold, and I feel like the only guy that can pull of a scarf is my dad. But I can show you where to look in case you know a man who can rock one.

You could make a scarf. Yes, you. Crocheting and knitting are relatively easy skills to learn if you don't know already, and you can get something with more meaning that costs WAY less money.

I found a couple of scarves that are crazy expensive, though I imagine a man only buys so many scarves in his life, so maybe that isn't a big deal? I honestly can't imagine buying an Alexander Olch scarf for 270 dollars. Seriously, I cannot imagine how you justify that purchase. Steven Alan makes scarves as well.

Really, if you want to buy a man a scarf without breaking the bank, Etsy is the place to look (you knew I was going to say it, but it's true!) Autumn Moon Threads has a great looking one that is pretty reasonable. I mostly don't love infinity scarves, but these ones from the Up North Market look pretty stylish and like they would actually keep you warm.  If you want to get a crazy expensive one, Fitch Studio Weavers have gorgeous and masculine scarves.

You can also find TONS of vintage scarves. Just stay out of the Target or Walmart section. You can do better for this one.

from Vintage Kitchen Tools

Potato Ricer

For Perfect Gnocchi.

Etsy (or Ebay). You can find TONS of potato ricers on Etsy and Ebay. Not all are in usable condition, but plenty are. Start looking used, because these can last long beyond one owner and used is always an eco-friendly choice!

I looked all over the place for a made in America ricer option, but it seems like they are all made in elsewhere now. But that is ok. Get one used.

Pokemon Sun

Gotta Catch'em All.

I guess this one is unavoidable. Especially in this house. Sadly, if you want a game this new, buying it used isn't really an option.

A Few More Ideas... 

Date Night- If you are like us, a date night is a pretty precious thing. Why not hire a babysitter for one night a month that you can count on? Or, get a bunch of gift certificates to different restaurants you want to try? Season tickets for the theater to guarantee a bunch of nights out? An activity-based gift might be perfect for someone who seems to have everything they want.

Spices or Cookbooks- We love a good cooking challenge in our house. We spend a lot of our nights in the kitchen, so opportunities to try something new is always good. We love Cooks' Illustrated and America's Best Test Kitchen best, and you can find all sorts of cool Made in America spice rubs, mixes, and sauces at places like Sur La Table or Williams Sonoma.

A Music or Movie Service- If you know someone impossible, get them money for Netflix or Amazon Prime so that they can spend their money another way. It's a simple gift, but it might be a great one.

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Green Christmas: 10 Awesome Gifts that Don't Take Up Any Room Under the Tree

Oh who doesn't love the look of a Christmas tree just bursting with gifts underneath? It feels good to see that symbol of abundance and that physical manifestation of love on Christmas morning. I know I really love a good Gift Mountain. I do. Not facetious at all, it makes me so happy to give gifts.

That being said, how many of the gifts you received last year can you name? And how many gifts get returned or never quite find use in the course of the year? Probably at least a few! We give so many gifts this time of year, but if you are looking to get the most for the biggest deal, you are doing harm. Americans have so much stuff, and we are creating tons of waste. 85 million tons of textile waste. Plastic that is overrunning the ocean. Encouraging inequality and the mistreatment of other. If Jesus came to save the world, why are we celebrating him by destroying it?

I would never knock gift-giving as a practice, but I do think there are lots of gifts we could be giving that don't take up more room in our homes and under our tree. Giving gifts that don't take up space can sometimes be the best ones, and they can help us take care of what we already have rather than adding to piles that can become hard to manage. These gifts might not fill up the tree space as much, but I think they are gifts that your loved ones will be so much more likely to remember.

What non-material gifts are you giving this year? I am excited to be buying our niece piano lessons with a few books. All of our siblings are getting experiences instead of stuff. It's a trend I am excited about, even if we don't have the big gift-opening moment on Christmas morning. That's two minutes. I want to get gift that make memories that will last.


So here are my best ideas- what are you getting this year that you don't have to wrap

1. Netflix Subscriptions- Rather than buying someone a stack of movies this Christmas, what about getting them the fancy dvd level membership to Netflix? Even pay for their streaming for them! It is a little steep, maybe their whole gift for the year, but it creates a lot less waste to borrow than to own!

2. Quality Time- Rather than getting a family or couple more stuff, look up an event calendar for their town and think about if you could get them tickets to a cool activity they would enjoy. For example (and sorry, Shell, I didn't go for it and I should have), I saw tickets for sale to go see/ ride on Thomas the Tank Engine that would have been so fun for my sweet cousin's toddlers and their whole family. If you can fund a new experience or a family memory, that can make a great gift!

For the Bub's birthday, we bought him one gift. One. Instead, we took him to see Daniel Tiger Live as a family, and he was so into it! My goal is to manage birthdays this way forever- one gift, one experience, and one party. I love the memory of going there with him, and it won't add to the collection of toys we seem to always be fighting back.

If you don't have kids to shop for, this still works. Try concert tickets or season tickets to something. Give a gift card for a trip you know they are saving for.

3. Handy Help- Taking a page from Luke on Gilmore Girls, you could give "coupons" for help getting something checked off a loved one's to do list. Not handy yourself? You could try buying your loved one a few hours of handyman or cleaning person time. I have given this gift, and not to toot my own horn (toot toot), but I think it is basically the best gift ever. Let's face it, adulthood is the worst, and it gets so old to have a neverending to do list for your home. Blech.

You can get a loved one a little help fixing that vent or ceiling, or hanging that molding, or building that closet organization, or whatever other nonsense just never quite gets done because it sounds horrible and people are super busy. One of the greenest things we can do is take care of what we have so we don't need to buy a new one, so this might be the ticket for someone you care about.

4. Food- Take someone a lasagna or pot pie or something they can stick in their freezer, not under the tree. Much like house repairs, cooking can be a real pain in the bumper this time of year. It can really help someone out. If you aren't sure what to make, but you want to give more practical gifts, you could also stock a pantry or buy them all (recycled) paper goods (I love this idea- a year's worth of paper towels sounds so lame, but it is kind of awesome actually).

5. Date Night- A gift card for a night out is not exactly new territory, but it's a classic for a reason. People love to eat out, and this gives them a good reason to go do it!

6. A Museum Membership- If your giftee lives near a museum (or zoo? or theater? science center?), a membership could be a great gift! It basically gives them a constant reason to go visit, and members at many museums have access to activities and events they may not otherwise. Perfect for an art lover, animal lover, or just someone who loves to learn. Also great for stay at home parents, as most of these places have weekday activities that cater to small children and their adults.

7. Donating to a Charity in their Honor- For that person who really does have everything, and they really don't want any more stuff. You can find charities that give ornaments or calendars in return for a donation if you want to give them a little token, but I think this would be so cool. If we all put 100 dollars of our Christmas shopping money directly into charities, we could make a huge difference in the world!

This one feels even more relevant than it did a year ago. We need to support organizations fighting for our environment and for human rights. You could also support efforts to help in Syria or even "adopt" a refugee family in their honor. So many options here, so think about what matters most to them.

8. A Visit from a Cleaning Service- Do you know someone with small children? Stop! Do not buy them another baby thing,

Get them a few visits from a cleaning service. You will be their favorite person forever.

This could probably work for all sorts of people, but parents of babies will love you the most, and that's the point of Christmas, right?

Check with them first; no reason to offend anyone. If you don't have much money, but you have some serious cleaning skills, this is a gift that could cost you 0 dollars.

9. Lessons- The Boy and I talk about getting cooking and dancing lessons all the time, but we have never gone for it. If you know someone has debated it, this might be the perfect way to help the person you love finally take the leap. Swimming lessons might be cool for kids too. The community college near us has a super interesting catalog of night classes, so be sure to check out what is near you too!

10. Massages- I think massages are a little awkward, but not everyone is as wimpy as me. A massage might really make their day. We did this for my brother and sister in law last year as a kind of date? Wow, that sounds awkward to me, but you go ahead and go for it, because we aren't all pasty blogging dorks.

What non-material gifts have you bought for someone?

Some of these are a little steep- I am a big supporter of going in with others to buy gifts! If we all focus on quality and not quantity, I think we can shift our paradigm on Christmas and consumption, focusing more on what really matters and less on stuff! Who can't get behind that?

If you are looking for more shopping inspiration, check out my Giant List of Shopping Lists!

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Five Favorite Etsy Stores- Tree Toppers

I want to keep highlighting amazing makers in the US, and I feel like my Etsy links can get caught in the more mainstream shuffle. So starting a series to focus on the greatest stuff we have found. 

from Tinworks

We bought our tree topper on Etsy 7 years ago when we moved in together. It basically looks like an oven mit, but I love it and I bet we will never change it. Tree toppers are the kind of thing most of us will only buy once or twice in our lifetime, so it is worth it to spend a little more on something special that will last all that time. Etsy has so many options, but here are some of my favorites:

Kentucky Reclaimed (Kentucky) makes beautiful reclaimed wood stars that would look perfect on a rustic Christmas tree.

Kissa Design (Detroit)has the coolest collection of these paper tree toppers. I have never seen anything like them,

Tinworks (South Carolina) makes stars and angels that seem old and precious, somewhere between a tintype photo and a suit of armor, but I can see them working on most trees, and they feel like an heirloom.

The Stencil Laser (Indiana) makes these super sharp and minimalist stars. I think this also has that cool trendy side, but the wood makes it look like it could fit on a more traditional tree as well.

Me and She Studios (Philadelphia) these stars are so light and airy, and I think they make look great in a small apartment where you don't want to cramp the space much more. Another sort of different style.


Want even more eco-friendly and local shopping inspiration? Check out my Giant List of Ethical and Eco-Friendly Shopping Lists. 

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Green Christmas- My 2016 Christmas List

Ok, here is another Christmas list! I think we can get blocked and need inspiration for gift ideas. I also think it is easy to feel like everything is Made in China out of cheap plastic, but you can find eco-friendly options for most things on your list. This is my list.

from oh little rabbit

Holiday Tea Towels or Pillow Covers- I used to buy holiday-themed decorations at places like Target, and though I do support their respect for the LGBTQ community, I wish they sold more eco-friendly options for shoppers. Now some of our tea towels are looking rough, and I would like to get some holiday decor that is a little more subtle to replace them. I love the tea towels (and everything else, frankly) from oh little rabbit. I also think pillow covers are a cool way to decorate, because they don't take up much room but can change the effect of the room.

Arbor Day Thank You Cards- My dream now is that I would never write another thank you card that didn't also fund planting a tree. The Arbor Day Foundation sells Give-a-Tree cards that I want as my stationary.  Wouldn't that be awesome? Think of how much gratitude and good air one person could produce in a lifetime! On the other hand, it's an expensive goal. So I would love the help. Blank thank you cards would make a truly fun gift.

Casual Dresses that will Last- I love a dress, but chasing toddlers doesn't lend itself to much fanciness in life. What I would really like are more t-shirt, tunic, or simple casual dresses, but I am trying to avoid just buying the thing at Target that will only last a short time. Simka Sol has some pretty tunics. I also love thief and bandit, though that is getting really expensive (but would hopefully get a lot of use. Used is also good!

from Lovely from Lindsey

Stocking Holders- We have stockings that we love, but right now they just end up on command hooks somewhere. I would like to be able to show off the beautiful gifts we were given, so stocking holders are the only decoration I am really thinking of. I think my favorite are these simple, modern blocks with letters from Lovely from Lindsey. Our stockings have a lot going on, so I prefer the simple ones. Ezze Blocks makes really simple ones with a photo clip that you could maybe change up every year? I think there is potential for this idea.

from Homme Sur La Lune

This Bag- Who doesn't want some Leslie Knopeness like this? Most people? Oh alright, but I think it is the coolest. I have lusted after this all year.

Donations- Ugh, this year, there is no object I want nearly as much as I would like our environment to not be completely destroyed by a president elect who prioritizes other concerns way over the Earth. I think a donation to the NRDC, the Sierra Club, or a local, grassroots environmental effort like the Stop DAPL protectors would make a kickass gift.  I know this sounds lame or over the top, but I really can't think of anything I want more than to push the momentum in a positive direction, because we have a scary four years ahead of us.

from Amazon

Cookie Sheets- Our sheet pan with a rim was a hand me down from my mom, and it is looking really really rough. I would like a cookie sheet from USA Pan with a rim to replace it once it bites the dust completely.


Want even more eco-friendly and local shopping inspiration? Check out my Giant List of Ethical and Eco-Friendly Shopping Lists. 

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Green Christmas: A Traveler's Wishlist

This is one of the Christmas lists from last year, but all of the links are updated and on point. I still think Paige's list has lots of great ideas on it! Plus, now she travels for work all of the time, so the description fits her better than ever. 

Paige Greene is an adventurer. She has traveled to see us in California and Seattle, and I love to hear about her adventures. Paige has noticed some things about her trips though:

"I realized that when I travel, I am basically an eco-terrorist. My goal is always to take things with me that I can throw away or leave behind so I have more space in my suitcase; hopefully on my next trip I can avoid that practice and just learn to use the space I have."

I love that she is thinking about this, because I am trying to figure it out as well! Paige put some awesome gift ideas for travelers like her on her Christmas gift list:

Re-useable Travel Bottles
Headphones
Packing Cubes
Luggage Tags
Walking Shoes
Ostrich Pillow

I love her ideas, and I think a lot of these suggestions would make perfect Christmas gifts that the receiver can enjoy over and over again. As per usual, Paige will do a good chunk of the talking, and I will chime in.

Bottles for Shampoo, Body Wash, Etc.- "Usually I end up buying cheap plastic ones at a dollar store (almost always made in China) and then I throw them away at the end of my trip. I know there are some silicon ones out there that look pretty nice. The cuter the better, because if they’re actually worth something than I won’t feel like I need to throw it away! Bonus points if I can put them in the dish washer."

My Ideas- First of all, Paige, I have obsessed over this same issue! I get why we use tiny bottles when we travel, but those tiny bottles create so much pointless waste. Why not get something refillable and just put in the shampoo you already like and use? And why don't hotels put in the pumps rather than those tiny obnoxious bottles? We can do better!

from amazon

There are plenty of great options- these ones look the cutest to me. I love the bright colors (that can help keep the different contents straight) and the wide openings, so no one has to waste bunch of time trying to get the shampoo back out. There is plenty of variation on this basic setup, and I am willing to guess most come from the same factory. It's not a perfect solution, but if a person uses these instead of travel shampoos every trip, I think the plastic saved would be perfect. This one is called a Vital Travel Buddy, and they come in cooler colors.

We actually got a set of these last year for Christmas (as did Paige) and they have turned out pretty handy? We brought them with us on a big trip, and it was too long for them to last the whole time. I would recommend traveling with them inside a bag (we use biobags) in case the hard top pops off the soft body. It happened to us once, so learn for our foolishness.

Eco Tools makes travel bottles out of recycled plastic, which makes a lot of good sense to me, though they would be harder to squeeze, and how would you differentiate one from another? When you gift these, maybe do it with some stickers to add on!

The Boy bought me these for my stocking last year. They are awesome. Definitely recommend if you are going this route.

If you use hard soaps and shampoos (I have been working on this), you can also get Go Tubbs which are completely recyclable and hopefully keeps you from the tiny dove soaps and all that packaging.

from amazon

Headphones- "This is more an ethical issue I have than an environmental one. I would like a nice, sturdy pair of headphones that can cancel jet-noise (I am somehow always right by the engine). Who is making American-made headphones that aren’t ridiculously overpriced?"

My Ideas- I recently bought 2 different pairs of headphones that use less plastic and more Earth-friendly materials. The big winners turned out to be House of Marley headphones, which are made of FSC wood, recycled plastic, and recyclable materials. They even come with really smart storage pockets (especially for travel). They are pretty dodgy about where they are manufactured (it looks like China?), so I am not super optimistic about that, but they seem to me to be the best of a bunch of junky options. The on-ear option is also gorgeous to look at, and they make it with eco-friendly materials.

We also tried Symphonized NRG headphones as well, but I thought House of Marley came out as the winner.

For long flights, SleepPhones look like the most comfortable option for headphones, and they consist of all recycled materials!

Packing Cubes- "Because an organized traveler is a happy traveler. Plus, this is one more tool to help avoid the end-of-trip-purge."

from Ouch Pouch Shoppe

My Ideas- I honestly had pretty bad luck trying to find packing cubes made of recycled material or even made in the US, but I am not giving up! Blue Ridge Overland Gear sells eco-friendly packing cubes all made in the US, so they are the big winner! Beckel Canvas Products makes some luggage pieces that I think would work well for this purpose as well.

I did find tons of great travel pouches, which I think could definitely make a traveler both happy and organized. I would suggest Ouch Pouch Shoppe as a first stop, because you can get tons of variation in size to find what works for you. The other really great place to start looking is Maptote, who has pouches in all sorts of sizes. Some are pretty sweet and cute, like this floral pouch. I like these simple pouches from Archival Clothing (I like all their bags, but the pouches help in this case).

from rockcycleonline

from Off Chutes

Luggage Tags- "To replace the cheap plastic ones the study abroad office hands out to freshmen." 

My Ideas- This is such a fun Christmas gift, because you can find any luggage tag out there! Small, practical, and you can find one that perfectly fits the traveler in your life that you love. I have two I love so much (and are both recycled!) that I can't decide which I would pick- this glamorous Michael Bolton tag (I can hear him singing about Captain Jack Sparrow) from rockcycleonline and these bright, eye-catching (which is important!) geometric tags from Off Chutes. 

from Wanderlust Woodworks

You can also buy leather tags from RSVP Handcrafted, Holtz Leather, and Wanderlust Woodworks (this one reminds me of Paige). This one is made of recycled wood. You can even get tags made out of sailboat sails! Don't see one that fits? No problem! There are tons on Etsy to browse through.

Shoes- "Toms are great, but they don’t have a lot of support. I need something that doesn’t scream “tourist” but still has the comfort of a tennis shoe."

My Ideas- I feel like a good walking shoe that doesn't look like a tennis shoe is a pretty wide category, and it can be tough, but I did find a few options. I can't vouch for the long term comfort of these beyond the reviews, but you know what works for you (or you can ask the traveler in your life).

Toms are beloved by people who have them, and their one for one arangement is pretty cool, but they are criticized for not using fair trade labor practices. If you want some casual shoes with more developed and ethical approaches to their factories, I would suggest Oliberte or Sole Rebels. Check out their Urban Runners. Natural World prioritizes eco-friendly shoes as well.

from zappos

The Munro American is mostly a work shoe, and I think the black looks that way, but I like the maroon color. If it can stand up to a long work day, it can probably stand up to a long walking tour too!

If you want to do something a little more girly, I did find Made in the USA ballerina flats. Tic Tac Toes makes plain leather flats that look adorable and i bet would greatly outlast all those pairs I used to buy at Payless (oh Payless cheap shoes, I really will miss you).

Frye's American-made shoes are mostly known for their boots, but they do sell a few designs of lace up leather shoes that might be a grown up alternative to the Chucks that a grown man could wear all the time. Still has a slightly playful feel, but a little more mature for sure. Again, not cheap, but they are leather not canvas, so they will probably last a lot longer

As a side note, if you are the kind of person who wants some straight up walking or tennis shoes, shop New Balance! They are the only athletic shoe company that still manufactures in the United States, so the shoes haven't traveled long distances. They have had some weird moments politically lately, so I feel a little split, but if you believe in American manufacturing, they are your shoe. These ones are so ugly I find it endearing. I imagine them with a 1980's power suit.

Ostrich Pillow- "I can’t believe there isn’t someone on etsy making these! I don’t care how dorky they look. If I’m on a red eye, I will do whatever it takes to get some sleep."

from 6sqft.com

My Ideas- Whoa, Paige. You actually use this? I had to look it up, and I feel I am appropriately horrified/ filled with awe and respect. You do you. I also don't understand how the hand part helps. But I also agree, sleep is always worth silliness. That being said, I can't find anything like this on etsy (or anywhere else for that matter), but I did find one gem of a travel pillow.

from biomed design

This biomed design travel pillow doesn't have the pizzazz of an Ostrich pillow, but it does promise cervical support, and whose cervix couldn't use a little more support? Bonus points for weirdness. It also does look pretty comfy and might support your head a few different ways because of its shape, so it has some flexibility depending on how your traveler likes to sleep.

A Few More Gift Ideas for the Traveler in your Life

from Push Pin Travel Maps

Travel Maps- I think this gift idea kicks ass. When you love to travel, you are always plotting your next trip and reminiscing about trips before. I love these pushpin maps, that a traveler can put up on their wall to track where they've been and dream of where they will go next. If you have a traveler, domestic or international, I think this is a perfect gift for them. My favorite are Kristin Douglas Art maps, which are fun to scratch off and look absolutely beautiful. She is one of my Etsy favorites.

This map, from Push Pin Travel Maps, has that super fun side, but it also comes in more subdued, adult colors. I think it might make a perfect combination to have up on a wall. I also LOVE this flat, graphic version from Rasure Prints LLC in black and an "adventure awaits" white version from Paper Planes Prints. Map Republic sells a brighter, more playful version. JW Designs has a really wide variety to choose from too.

Luggage- Yes, It's perhaps on the obvious side, but if the person you love has a bag on its last legs, you might be able to ease it into retirement. Luggage, as a rule, is crazy expensive, but it is also almost always in thrift shops. You might be able to find a bag that only needs a teeny bit of coaxing to be awesome.

from Tough Traveler

If you can't find anything on that level used (or you are looking for a big spender type gift), you can also find every option you would need made in the US. For large duffels and rolly bags, you can get great options from Tough Traveler (I bought one of these bags as a gift a few years ago, and I think it went over pretty well). Filson sells all sorts of American-made bags (roller and duffle) at a higher price point. If you want to have a heart attack or you discovered gold in your backyard, check out the rolling luggage from Ghurka.

For travel bags and duffle bags (like a carry on), Equinox sells sportier eco-friendly duffles between 40 and 100 dollars. Duluth Pack also sells  gorgeous duffel travel bags and garment bags. Wood and Faulk makes leather and canvas duffle bags and totes- on the steep side, but they might be great if you just want one very reliable bag to keep forever. 

From millscanvas

For travel backpacks and small totes  (a personal item), I love these "flight bags" from Wm J Mills Canvas. It's 140, so not cheap, but you can poke around and find some other bags as well. Backpacks from Topo Designs in Denver, Colorado come in around the same price point, but it might be just what your seasoned traveler needs. I also love the Chester Wallace backpacks and totes, which are handmade in Portland, Oregon and look tough enough to withstand lots of travel. Duluth Pack sells travel packs as well.

Lens Sleeves- If someone travels with a nice camera, this gift could help them keep their lenses clean while in transit. Simple idea, but it makes a big difference! 

Want even more eco-friendly and local shopping inspiration? Check out my Giant List of Ethical and Eco-Friendly Shopping Lists. 

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Five Favorite Etsy Stores- Advent Calendar

I want to keep highlighting amazing makers in the US, and I feel like my Etsy links can get caught in the more mainstream shuffle. So starting a series to focus on the greatest stuff we have found. 

Nomad Fine Art

Advent gets downplayed in the hustle and bustle of the season, but I know it has a pretty big role in our house. An advent calendar seems to be spiritual enough that it doesn't have a huge market (thank goodness) but you can get an amazing and meaningful advent calendar on Etsy. Of all the things I have researched this season, these might be my favorite. 

Baby What Knots (Indiana)- I LOVE this one so much. You can buy a little tree and 25 little ornaments to go with it. Really pretty and would look great in a kid space or even a minimal space without room for the tree.

Nomad Fine Art (California) sells a bunch of advent calendars that are modern, thoughtful, beautiful, and shockingly cheap. I especially love the clip and copper pipe ones, because I think you could incorporate it into a reverse Advent calendar, where each day leading up to Christmas you donate belongings as a family. These look so cool, and you could use them in so many ways to best fit your family's traditions.

Knoll Wood Lane (Missouri)- These simple unfinished wood boxes could look a million different types of beautiful depending on how you decorate it. I think this could be really cool, or even make a great gift for a couple's first Christmas. Even though this is simple, it is my favorite. If you are more of a felt DIYer, check out the Sugar House Shop.

N and B Specialties (South Carolina) makes art for your home out of reclaimed wood (one of my favorite things). They have a simple and rustic Advent tree that would look good with lots of decor but I think it looks even cooler like this outside! I love how sweet and simple this one is.

French Melody sells cool printables, but this flock of advent sheep is my favorite by far! If you are going to do it, put it on recycled paper, so you are supporting a nearby small business AND saving a tree from coming down! Double win! Also, this looks like a fun project to do with a teen or older child (or awesome adult).

Want even more eco-friendly and local shopping inspiration? Check out my Giant List of Ethical and Eco-Friendly Shopping Lists. 

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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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