Season of Giving November 30, 2008

If it truly is better to give than to receive, what about giving someone the chance to give? Donations in someone’s name can be a thoughtful gift, particularly for the person who already has everything or is into socially-conscious purchases. To favor one charity over another in this post would be impossible and unfair, so instead I recommend you consider the recipient and his/her interests. Is she into sports? If so, why not donate basketballs in her name to the local youth basketball league. Is he into art? Perhaps a donation to the art museum. No matter what you choose, try to consider where your recipient would want their name. If she’s never seen a farm in her life, don’t adopt a rescue racehorse or donkey. 

Another option is to let the gift recipient choose where the money goes. Kiva.org is an organization that acts as the micro-lending go-between for normal folks like you and me and entrepreneurs in developing regions of the world. Gift certificates are available for as little as $25. The recipient can browse the list of entrepreneurs needing a loan and choose who they would like to extend the loan to. This not only shows outreach to our fellow man (and woman), but also belief in their success as a business. Having someone believe in you is priceless! On a side note, it looks like 98.76% of loans are repaid so when the money loaned comes back, it can be loaned again and again – you may say it is a gift that keeps on giving!

 

Sample Kiva Gift Certificate

I *Heart* Coffee November 29, 2008

For coffee and tea lovers there is the moment when your brain senses caffeine coming and contentment takes over. Why ruin that feeling by burning your hand when you could pull out your handy reusable cup cozy? Saved by 60 Bugs which creates wool felt Love Tattoo Hand-embroidered Reusable Cup Sleeves that are beautiful and so very hip. The design is modeled after the classic heart tattoo and currently available in Coffee, Caffeine, and Tea. Each costs $12 – an ideal gift for the coffee fiend in your family or office. It also means one less disposable cup sleeve will go in the rubbish bin (a tree won’t personally thank you, but your karma will).

Love Tattoo Hand-embroidered Reusable Coffee Sleeve from 60 Bugs

Black Friday November 28, 2008

Black Friday is upon us and the shops are going to be madness. What began as the kick-off to holiday shopping season is now a strange holiday in its own. Though “black” seems like it would refer to the shame we must feel in recognizing a shopping holiday, it is actually in reference to the fiscal status of retailers as a result (hopefully) of that day. I have heard that BlackFriday.info has proven to be useful for some avid mall-goers. Also good to know is that many stores put coupons in the local circulars and newspaper which also occurs for Boxing Day (day after Christmas sales).

With the Internet on our desks (and in our laps), more and more Black Friday deals are becoming available in the web presence of established mall retailers. Look at your favorite retail websites for clearance deals, promotions, and special offers. Many deals are in fact deals, but are they a deal for you? Keep in mind the staying power of what you are purchasing. If a Blu-ray player is discounted extremely, the cost of the discs themselves still is to be factored in as well as whether it is actually needed.

Of course, after an autumn day out on your feet, the best thing to come home to may be a warm cup of tea and cozy slippers. I’ve featured non-skid fleece socks in a previous post, but can’t say enough about how wonderful warm footwear is for chilly houses (or cold tile flooring). REI has Muir Woods Fleece Socks in a choice of vibrant patterns on sale for $10.79 per pair. In a time when most keep their thermostats set low to conserve energy (both for the environment and for the wallet), these socks help keep you warm.

REI Muir Woods Fleece Socks

Gratitude November 27, 2008

It starts with a realization that not every moment is as happy as those affected by a particular person or what they’ve given you then is grows to become gratitude. Sitting around the dinner table this evening, you may be grateful for your family, your meal, your home, your employment, but don’t forget to be grateful for yourself since you are the person who deserves and earns such friendship and blessings. Of course, be sure to send a thank you note to your hostess or host for having you for the holiday meal – if you hosted, pat yourself on the back and enjoy the yummy leftovers.

An elegant and beautiful thank you card can be found in RedStamp.com’s Gratitude Thank You Letterpress Printed Card ($6.00 each).

Gratitude Thank You Letterpress Printed Card

Shimmering Pine Cones November 26, 2008

Wear Autumn boldly around your neck with this stunning Silver Pine Cone Necklace, $65.00 from Astridland. The necklace is 17 inches in length and made of sterling silver. Delicate yet solid, this piece brings nature to mind while still feeling luxurious. It is truly something perfect for one who loves the season or its landscape. Free shipping on this item too!

Silver Pine Cone Necklace