It’s undeniable. The street lights are illuminated. That hefty bearded man in red has arrived from the North Pole to collect wishes from children, both naughty and nice. Justin Bieber’s rendition of “Mistletoe” has been following me everywhere, from the confines of my Jetta to the ever so elegant bathroom stall at Tar-zhay. It’s undeniable. The holidays are just around the corner.
It’s possible that some of you set your alarm for 4AM last Friday, wrestled other fearless shoppers and risked your life to save 50% on the one and only black Friday. Many of you may have found yourself browsing the web earlier this week in search of the ultimate cyber Monday steal. Others, like myself, might be struggling to find the perfect balance between embracing the holiday spirit whilst also being sensitive to the challenges that our nation, our global community and our planet are currently facing. Others, like myself, are looking for sensible alternatives to traditional gifts. Whether you fall into that category, or whether you are just looking to check a few more items off of your list, see below for Cherrettie’s 2011 do good gift guide. Gifts that encourage well-being. Gifts that promote community. Gifts that give back.
- Low-Carbon Eats: Whether you’re shopping for a vegan, vegetarian, a pescatarian or an omnivore the Big Green Cookbook has earth friendly recipes for all. Sesame soba noodles with bell peppers and cucumber? Yes, please.
- Empowering Headwear: Krochet Kids isn’t just about clothing and accessories, it’s about economic development and inspiration. Purchase a Love V-Neck or a Hodge Podge hat and empower another to rise above poverty.
- Guilt-Free Sex: Well, actually I can’t promise that. However, if you are planning on bumping uglies this holiday season why not promote safe sex around the globe while you are at it. For every Sir Richard’s condom purchased in the states one is donated to a country in need. Go ahead, get your groove on.
- Recycled Goods: So many goods can be re-purposed, causing me to wonder why I ever buy anything brand new. Check out these recycled vinyl bowls from Uncommon Goods. I have two similar ones at home that host my soultastic sunglass collection. Oh, I should also mention that a portion of your order will be donated to your non-profit of choice.
- Local Treasures: Regardless of your position on the state of the economy or current protest movements, I think we can all agree on the importance of shopping local. Visit a local gallery. Snag a gift certificate from your favorite home town java hut. Hell, stop into the local dive bar and buy everyone a round of drinks if you’d rather. I definitely wouldn’t deny the gift of “slight” intoxication this holiday season.
- Soles with Soul: TOMS operates on a one for one model. When you purchase a new pair of oh, so comfortable shoes a child in a developing country also gets a new pair of oh, so comfortable shoes. Who thought that aiding in the fight against soil-transmitted diseases could be so simple?
- Great Escapes: I’m not sure about you but after 2-3 months of winter I’m usually itching for an adventure. Quetzaltrekkers is an awesome organization in Guatemala and Nicaragua that donates all profits to support at-risk Guatemalan youth. I was lucky enough to do the Lago Atitlan hike back in 2006. I can assure you, this is a gift that won’t disappoint.
- Beneficial Bracelets: From your bombshell college roommate to your down-to-earth sister, Same Sky carries a variety bracelets that suit all tastes. Each product is handcrafted in Rwanda, providing HIV positive women with both employment and hope.
- Wellness: Whether distracted by work stress, relationship drama or rambunctious children sometimes the most important people in our lives forget about one fundamental task. Taking care of themselves. Why not do it for them? Hit the local spa, pre-pay for a month of yoga or offer to cook a delicious well-balanced meal. While you’re at it, don’t forget about yourself.
- Fair Trade: Looking for handcrafted gifts? Any interest in supporting disadvantaged artisans around the globe? If you answered yes to either of those questions you might want to consider shopping at a fair trade retailer like Ten Thousand Villages. Personally, I have my eye on this Have A Hoot Coin Purse.
Day 9,907. Watch out for reindeer.
Cherrettie
Forever Paisley 
Express yourself …