Don't Buy Nestle, Instead Try...

This blog series "Don't Buy... Instead Try..." intends to point out some of the most egregiously unethical, wasteful, and environmentally ridiculous companies out there. Instead of dwelling on their considerable awfulness, the series will focus on the other options you have for purchasing.

Every purchase we make is a vote for the kind of world we want. 
Every single purchase is political.
 Every single purchase has ethical ramifications, and 
every single purchase should be approached with a spirit of stewardship. 

We can change the world by refusing to fund extreme greed, the mistreatment of other human beings, and the trashing of the environment. We need to stay aware of the many choices available to us. Will we get it right every time? No. But if we all make little changes, we can send companies a new message, that consumers will show up if they do the right thing. 

When I think of Nestle, I think of Tollhouse cookies, the yellow bag, pouring chocolate chips into cookie dough (or just eating the dough out of those tubes- did anyone else do that in college?) It feels like a pretty wholesome activity, and there is something all-American about it. Can't you just see the ad with the mom and her kids baking in an all white, perfectly clean kitchen?

But that isn't the truth. Nestle isn't just delicious chocolate chip cookies. It's more like cookies and pure evil (which sounds fun, but trust me, it isn't).

Nestle (a Swiss company) is truly one of the nastiest companies out there. Just this week, they have upped the nastiness once again in Michigan, so it felt like time to bring this one back.

They are openly campaigning AGAINST water as a human right (they asked to change the wording) so they can profit on water-deprived areas.

from Daily Kos

They have stolen water from California's poorest communities during droughts, only to package them in environment-wrecking plastic bottles going straight to landfills. You can read about this here, here, and here. If you only want one taste of how sketchy and nasty they are, read about how their staff of dirty public officials. Listen to the accounts of people living in the places they are taking water from. It is not hyperbole to suggest that this company is an enemy of the American people, as well as most citizens of anywhere.

Their noodles had 17 times the permissible amount of lead in them (in 2015. Mostly this controversy was in India and five African countries).

They were charged for using child labor for their chocolate in 2005.

Their supply chain used forced labor in Thailand to make their catfood. So essentially, slaves were being used to make catfood (can anyone say their cat is worth someone being a slave?)

 Boycotts have been coming up against this company since the late 70's when they actively promoted powdered formula in third world countries (because they don't make money off of breastfeeding, but they can gauge the poorest populations for formula). They are cartoon villain levels of evil, and we keep giving them our money.

You fund this nonsense. You fund this evil. Let that set in for a second.

The reports we have are from what they have been caught doing, so it's crazy to think of what they might still be getting away with. Not only is this company anything but All-American, it is actively exploitative of our country and its resources. This is not ok. Can we as Christians stand for people's basic human rights being denied to them? Can we as Americans stand for our water being taken from our people to make these bastards cheap money?  I don't think so, and we don't have to.

Nestle also owns Carnation, Gerber, Nespresso, Purina, tons of the mainstream cereals (including Cheerios outside of the US), Dreyers, Skinny Cow, Drumsticks, and Haagen Dazs, and a bunch of candy bar companies. They also own basically everything in the frozen food section- Digiornio Pizza, Lean Cuisine, Hot Pockets, and Stouffers. They also own 30% of L'Oreal, which includes Garnier, Maybelline, Lancome, and the Body Shop. Basically, they are sneakily taking in a lot of your money. They own a lot, so it can feel like they are unavoidable.

Other options always exist! Rather than funding giant umbrella companies like Nestle, we can practice better stewardship of our country and our Earth by choosing to give our money to someone else.

No American should be giving Nestle/Carnation/Gerber a penny. They are literally trying to steal our water from us.

Now this company is big (it also includes Gerber since 2007, Carnation, Purina,  Nespresso/Nescafe, and KitKat, among others) and I am not going to be able to cover every base, but I want to show that you can always find multiple options better than these bottom feeders, Dr Evil, nonsense-doers. I will throw out some ideas for some of their stuff

Don't buy Nestle Chocolate Chips, Instead Try... 

You can still use that recipe, but improve on it with slightly less evil chocolate chips.

1. Something Local- Does your local chocolate, baking, or grocery store sell chocolate chips? Well, it is time for a delicious experiment, my dear. The best thing you can do is shop local, and you might find what you have is pretty special. Not sure what local chocolate you have? I made a giant list of local chocolates which continues to grow!

2. Sunspire- Made in America chocolate chips. Organic, vegan, and fair trade sources, so you never have to feel bad about your cookies again. I haven't really seen them in stores, but you can buy them on Amazon.

3.Tropical Source Chocolates- I can't speak to these much, as I haven't tried them, but they are produced in the US and have generally positive reviews. If you feel brave and try them, please let me know how they are!

4, And if all else fails (or time is ticking too quickly), buy Ghiradelli- I hate to say this, because this once American company is now owned by Lindt (also Swiss). From what I can tell, they are still made here, but the money trickles up to Switzerland, not here. But they are still not Nestle, and they are in most grocery stores. Also, the price is pretty comparable, and I find people love the Ghiradelli chips.

from aquagrade.com

Don't Buy Nestle "Pure Life" Water, Instead Try... 

The name "Pure Life" makes me want to punch someone in the face. What could possibly be pure about a product that steals water, tries to take away water as a human right, and makes a ridiculous and unnecessary amount of trash? Pure evil?

ALSO, they also own Poland Springs, Arrowhead, Calistoga, and Ice Mountain.

1. A Reusable Water Bottle- If you are somewhere where tap water is safe to drink with some filtering, then you never need a plastic instatrash water bottle ever again. No, I mean it. If you want a couple you don't mind losing, reuse ones you already have. But we all can lean primarily on a reusable water bottles. Liberty Bottles is an American treasure and continues to employ American workers to make their reusable bottles. I love this company. For reusable and durable plastic bottles, Camelback makes their bottles in China, but Nalgene has a very similar feel and they are made in the US (I think in Rochester, NY). Lifefactory bottles are made in the US (sleeve and cap) and France (the glass), and I love my glass bottle from them.

2. A Water Filter- Soma water filter is plant-based and Made in the USA. It's the big winner! You could also get a Pur water filter dispenser or a pitcher version (Origin- USA). Even Britas are made in China (they have a stainless steel version now) but they still kick the crap out of those one time use plastic bottles. If you want more options that aren't Made in China, BWT makes their water filter pitchers in Austria, so you know the labor is ethical, but the trip is much longer. Still, in all of these cases, Nestle doesn't get your money.

3. Belu- If you have to get a bottle of water for some reason, Belu is based out of the UK, so not great for patriotism, but they are still your best bet to feel good about. Belu uses ethical materials (glass and recycled plastic) and partners with Wateraid. So basically, instead of stealing money from people or trying to take it away as a human right, this company puts their profits to providing water. Suck it, Nestle, what kind of Pure Life are you living anyway?

4. And if you are at the gas station- Blech, we have all been there. First, always get the largest one you can, because tiny bottles are the devil's playground. Second, cross Pure Life, Arrowhead, and Poland Springs off the list of contenders. Even if you are buying Aquafina, it is still better than Nestle. This is a worst case scenario, but it is going to happen at some point, so better to be honest about it.

from imgarcade.com

Don't Buy Gerber Baby Clothes, Instead Try... 

I just addressed this in my post on Carters, but here are a few highlights-

1. Used- Baby clothes get used for such a short time and most of it is perfectly good when the first baby finishes it. Find your consignment/ yard sale/ hand me down options and let that take up the majority of your baby's wardrobe. You can find super cute stuff (including Gerber, though honestly the Gerber things we've owned did not wear well. It's for very lanky babies, and two of their onesies ripped on us), you can save tons of money, and you can save that much more from landfills. Used clothes for babies is a no-brainer.

2. American Apparel- Simple onesies and soft pants, adorable hoodies, and the basics you need to make that used stuff look adorable and put together.

3. Etsy- You want to buy someone a really cute outfit set for their baby shower? I know where you need to go- Etsy stores sell the most adorable outfits that you won't see again and again on other kids. Plus, you can buy something very specific to the parents rather than the same old stuff.

from michiganradio and their somewhat hilarious piece on Gerber's Michigan "roots"

Don't Buy Gerber Baby Food, Instead Try... 

Yes, we all associate Gerber with that All-Americanbaby eating out of little glass jars. That's not what this company is anymore. As a side note, if you are going to buy baby food, avoid pouches at all costs. Of course, Gerber makes these not completely safe (The BPA substitute is proving to be worse), bad habit-forming, environmental blights. Our kids are going to spend their adulthoods trying to figure out how to clean up these "conveniences" that really don't save time and waste our money. Skip the pouches completely, Gerber or otherwise.

To replace those little glass bottles:

1. Make your Own! I was shocked just how easy this was. You make mass amounts of steamed carrots, puree them, and house them in the freezer until it is their turn. I know it depends on your time availability, but I promise you, it really is worth doing if you can find the time. We bought this Made in the USA tray to store our food, but we honestly mostly just used the jars from when we did have to buy food.

2. Earth's Best Organic- This baby food company is owned in the US by Hain Celestial Group. The food is well-reviewed and loved, and we slowly shifted to them for baby food and formula as we went on through parenting our first baby. We will stick to them the next time. Happy Baby is also still owned and made in the US, but they mostly deal in pouches, so I am not impressed. Still, if that is your deal, you can check them out.

from gotchocolate.com

Don't Buy Carnation Instant Breakfast, Instead Try... 

This one was tough for us, because those breakfast drinks were a staple in our diet for a few years. That being said, they aren't particularly great for anything. Eat a vitamin and a piece of fresh fruit, and you have probably done yourself a favor. Also, the Earth a huge favor. That being said, if

1. Amazing Grass Green Superfood- Grown and sold out of a farm in Kansas, this boost could replace what you miss from Carnation Instant Breakfast. I have no idea if it is gross. My best guess is yes, because none of this stuff tastes particularly great.

from Chocolate Buttons

Don't Buy Butterfinger, Kit Kat, or Crunch, Instead Try...

Once I heard a story about someone breaking open a Kit Kat and maggots swarming out. Just remember that the next time they sound tempting. Maggots. 

1.Your Local Chocolate Company- If you want to support the US, start in your own backyard. Candy is one of the most locally-specific products we have, and there are candy and chocolate companies in every state. I even compiled a list of them for you! I know our local Daffins makes a crisped rice bar that is way better than a Crunch Bar, and in Seattle, we can find about a million candy bars more interesting. When you are getting ready for a car trip, trick or treaters, or a craving, plan ahead and pick up something legit and American. 

2. Clark Bars, Junior Mints, Mike and Ikes, Hot Tamales, Jelly Bellies, Russell Stover, and Tootsie Pops- These are three that you can buy in the check out line that are still made here. Hersheys and their army of bars is headed to Mexico, but if you check labels, some of those outlier bars are still made in the US. Need more info? Check out USA Love List, who have multiple awesome candy lists including all the things you can find at Target! 

Could I keep going? YES! In fact, maybe we can tackle ice cream, dog and cat food, frozen food, and makeup in a second Nestle post. Bottom line- these guys are jerks. Jerks that have dominated our grocery store shelves and taken advantage of our people partially because we have let them.

Is this one a big pain in the butt to do? Yep. It took us a long time to totally work them out of our consumer diet, and I am not sure I will ever get over the sadness from no more Haagen Dazs chocolate ice cream.

But if anything is worth taking against, it's companies like these. Time to get creative so we can stop giving them a penny. They don't deserve it. If you want to read more about my Buying American for One Month Challenge, check here. If you want more shopping ideas, check my Giant List of Lists here.

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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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Quote of the Week- Giving Gifts

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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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