So you have a family member or friend who is starting to really think about the environment. Maybe they are outraged by the unlawful shrinking of national monuments for the sake of fossil fuels. Maybe they had a baby and are thinking more seriously about the future. Maybe they saw the video of the sea turtle or the photos of the gigantic garbage patches. Maybe they don't even realize they give a shit yet, but they are just starting to notice how off things are.

There are a million reasons people start to care, and they are all good. We need everyone to care.

If you know and love someone interested in making some changes, it might be hard to know what they want or how you can support them. Are they cutting down on meat? Becoming minimalists? Do you have a baby zero-waster on your hands?

 There are lots of helpful gifts you can give them to get moving in the right direction. And can you think of anything better to celebrate than someone brave enough to step out of the mainstream and help save the world!? Even if they are just starting to think about it, that's pretty awesome.

Ok, so approaching green gifting takes three steps:

1. Buy Less

 No one buy everything on the list! One thoughtful gift is plenty, especially because almost everything on the list can be kept for a long, long time.

2. Buy Used

 Want to gift cloth napkins and have some sewing skills? Head to Goodwill for cloth and make them yourself. Buying secondhand (or finding things through community sharing groups like the Buy Nothing Project) is one of the greenest things you can do, because it prevents things needlessly being sent to the landfill.

3. Buy Local or Fair Trade

 Yes, you can find reusable bags anywhere, but there is a pretty wide spectrum of responsibility and ethics behind those bags. Look for things that use ethical materials (always steer away from synthetics), ethical labor (fair trade or made in a country with high labor standards), and ethical use of fossil fuels (have you ever though how much is wasted by shipping water bottles or straws across the world?) Local is better for the environment and better for your world. It's always worth it.

Some of this seems banal or almost too practical to be gifts, but wouldn't you rather spend your money on something that gets used instead of something that gathers dust?

This blog does have affiliate links for Amazon and Etsy, but I strongly recommend you see if you can find the same stuff locally. Amazon is the Walmart of the internet, and you can keep your money in your own community, doing way more good, if you shop local. 

Last but not least, someone is going to read this list and say "but where is the family cloth?" No friend, this list is for rookies, for people who don't have the simple basics you need to shift away from plastics and disposables. We want people to start with what they can keep up with and move from there. Don't get mad everyone isn't diving in; let's all just be psyched that they are even sticking a big toe in the pool. Maybe they will get to a family cloth, but just switching to paper-wrapped recycled or bamboo toilet paper is still a huge and important step.

This blog firmly believes that no one can get it 100% "right", but we all can do something, and we all can do more. Let's focus on changes we can make and attitudes we can shift.

Ok, preaching done- who wants some gift ideas?

1. Reusable Water Bottle

People who care about the environment tend to be deeply committed to their reusable water bottles. Americans used 50 billion water bottles last year (38 billion of those were not recycled). So even if the person only cares a little, they probably care enough to use a great reusable water bottle. Plus, you can save them SO MUCH money!

Two tips- focus on what is easy to clean, because the easy to clean ones are the ones that last. Secondly, steer away from plastic bodies if you can. Even the best plastic has proven to leech nasty chemicals after time, and we want this to last.

Here are a few of my favorite water bottle options (and if you see them secondhand, snatch them up)- Lifefactory (we use them AND our kids use them) and  Liberty Bottleworks (Made in Washington, aluminum, and you can get replacement parts). I know a lot of people are big Yeti fans, though most aren't made in the US- I would recommend Laken instead, as their manufacturing is more transparent,

If you are going plastic, I recommend Nalgene's simple bottles (not Contigo or Camelback). These are easy to clean, BPA-free, and still made in the US.

2. Recycled Paper Goods

Have you ever bought someone toilet paper for a gift? How about paper towels? They may not be the most glamorous gifts, but getting someone started on recycled paper basics can be a big help that saves them money! I mean, if you buy them bulk toilet paper, they can save that money for something fun or unexpected. Why don't we all buy each other basics for holidays?

If you want to see my best options for basics, check out this blog.

In fact, you can get any and all paper products recycled. Everything from gift wrap to printer paper to tissues. If you want paper inspiration, check out this blog.

3. Cloth Napkins

What nasty trickster convinced us all that we needed to use a disposable napkin everyday? They are so small that they never cost an extra load of laundry, and they are such a simple switch any novice can pull them off. Plus, they can be really pretty and fun.

We have the impression cloth napkins are for fancy events, but they are actually best for low key everyday use. You can break someone's habit and help them switch over.

You can find thousands (15,000 to be exact) of cloth napkins on Etsy. My favorites are ClearSkyHome, GreenLittleNest, and ohlittlerabbit. If you just want to gift something simple to start a collection, check out moocowmomma's collections. CHOWwithMe, KitchStudios, and foxyandwinston are worth checking out too.

I received napkins as a gift once, and I absolutely loved it. We still use them ALL the time. Seriously, cloth napkins are the best.

4. Seeds

So simple, so perfect for someone you know who is really thinking about where their food is really coming from. Gardening can provide food, but it also promotes real moments of calm. And it is hard not to feel damn proud of making the food you eat.

Not everyone has room for a garden- maybe gift a few potted plants? They are proven to make people happier AND filter the air! Indoor herbs can also be a big winner.

Go to a local nursery and hear their recommendations, look for classes (if your person would like that), or pair this gift with something from the Gardener Wish List.

5. Unsponge and Dish Brushes

Those ScotchBrite sponges are usually made with plastic and wrapped in plastic. They don't have a long use life, but they don't decompose either.  Not great. You can get a recycled version, but the best option we use are these unsponges, which are made of cloth, can be washed in the laundry, and reused again and again. We got our first ones last year, and they still look and work as good as new. I LOVE the unsponges from marley'smonsters. These are the best- but there are plenty on Etsy so feel free to browse the 400 available.

Unsponges can't do all the work alone, so gift them with a great scrub brush. I like dishbrushes with wood or bamboo handles- no reason to use plastic when a healthier material will do. This one is so cute. Tiny yellow bungalow has zero-waste and stylish brushes and scrubbers too.

Another cool thing for cleaning- these hemp eco-clothes. Reusable cleaning clothes, that I think are supposed to remind you of Norwex or microfiber clothes, but they use hemp instead of microfibers (that shed uncleanable plastic into the ocean). Want more eco-friendly cleaning ideas that might make great gifts? Try something from this blog.

6. Bar Soap

Bar soap is a simple gift that can perfectly fit their taste, support a local business, AND cuts down on plastic waste! Skip Bath and Bodyworks (the gift that says "I don't know you") and get your loved one something made nearby that smells amazing and saves the world. Bar soap beats liquid hands down, so your budding environmentalist might be all about the saved plastic. If you want something you can get online, Kiss my Face's olive oil soap (wrapped in paper) is my favorite face soap.

Bar soap yields over 100,000 finds on Etsy, so narrow it down by geography and see what is being made near you. Or ask at local shops and grocery stores. I would LOVE this gift, as I love trying new soaps.

7. Toothbrushes

Ok, toothbrushes could be the lamest and most amazing gift ever. We all get enough gifts that we never use, so why not buy something that is guaranteed to get use? Buy your loved one an ethical brush and a few more self-care tools.

Plastic toothbrushes put all sorts of nonsense chemicals in your mouth (and it isn't regulated particularly, so it is worth it to be wary), you have two better options- bamboo or Preserve's recycled foodsafe plastic. toothbrushes.

One BIG tip- If you are trying to gift without plastic (GO YOU!), really look at the reviews of the bamboo toothbrush you choose. LOTS of people complain of buying a bamboo toothbrush only to have it arrive in plastic. If you shop somewhere mainstream like Amazon, you can find that information, so take the time to do so (but try a shop like The Refill Revolution or Tiny Yellow Bungalow instead- it takes hutspah to run a small business and even more to serve the Earth at the same time).

8. Reusable Grocery and Produce Bags

Really, how are we all not using reusable bags by now? Still, produce bags aren't as common and might be a great choice for your loved one. If nothing else, a reusable tote makes great, zero-waste wrapping for gifts.

I have a few favorites, but mostly I have a few simple tips (me? be bossy?? Unimaginable). Try to steer away from synthetic fabrics, as you are still spreading plastic around.  If you are going to use them, go recycled!

 For grocery and produce bags, I recommend keeping it simple; a cotton tote- you can get thousands of them (21,000 just on Etsy), so you can gift a sassy one or support one of their favorite businesses or organizations. These extra large ones make a lot of sense, These mesh ones are pretty cool too. Produce bags have tons of mesh and natural fiber (from OrganicCottonMart and ohlittlerabbit) options too.

from inhabitat.com

Want to give the absolute coolest reusable bag? I am obsessed with these embroidered taffeta bags from Lauren DiCioccio. Come on! Tell me this isn't the coolest gift for an eco-nut? I saw one in the Seattle Art Museum shop years ago, and I still want one.

9. Dryer Balls

Those dryer sheets are instant garbage. They basically have nothing going for them, so instead, try these laundry balls, which you can use for hundreds of loads. I got these a few years ago as a Christmas gift and LOVED it.  You can see my list of dryer balls here. Don't want to poke around? Ok, buy these.

10. Reusable Straws

Giving up straws is one of the easiest things many of us can do to cut down on our plastic use. Seriously, all you have to say is "no straw please" but some people need to use straws or just really like them. Luckily, you can gift them glass straws (like these ones from Hummingbird glass) or steel straws that they can reuse again and again.

11. A Co-op Box Subscription

So many places have farm subscription boxes or co-op boxes now. Our small town we grew up in even has one. If a person you love wants to live a greener life, this is an awesome way to hook them up with local food. Plus, the boxes can be really inspiring when there are new foods to try! The more a diet hinges on plants instead of animals, the better it is for the environment, so you can help to shift that focus.

You can't go wrong with consumables, and the more local, the better. Think about what local goodies are available and maybe you will get inspired too!

12. Reusable Coffee Cup

Have a coffee lover in your life? Get them a reusable cup. You can find all sorts of great designs and ideas out there, but the most important thing is that it helps them get disposable cups (one of the big 4 sources of plastic pollution) out of their life.

I am not a coffee drinker (it tastes like dirty water!?), so I am not an expert at this, but here are a few Etsy cups I thought seemed really special. I also think these mason jar lids could make life simpler (great for kids too!).  Or, help a Keurig-loving baby environmentalist by getting them a reusable pod.

Think they are covered on cups? Why not gift them fair trade coffee! You can even buy it in bulk some places. The ethics of coffee can be very sketchy, so getting them something they can feel good about would be a simple and perfect present.

13. Laundry Soap

Laundry soap from grocery stores are almost guaranteed to have plastic packaging and sketchy ingredients. You may not have ever thought of laundry soap as a gift, but getting a nice laundry soap and avoiding plastic can be a huge gift for someone trying to be eco-friendly!

You could make them laundry soap yourself (what a neat gift!!), you could find homemade soaps on Etsy, or you could set them up for refillable laundry soap from The Refill Revolution. No matter what, this is a thoughtful, practical, and memorable gift!

14. Epicurean Spoons

I love Epicurean. Such a great brand where you can find cutting boards made of recycled materials and spoons and turners made of wood composite, resin, and recycled paper. We have used these turners for years, and they still feel smooth and work like new. A perfect option that isn't too expensive but will be useful for a very long time.

15. To Go Utensil Kits

Being environmentally-conscious in practice means living slowly and being prepared. So often we end up using things like plasticware because we don't have another option. A small set of bamboo utensils, like these from RePEat, can be a perfect gift to avoid that much more plastic.

16. A Donation to an Environmentalist Group

If the person you love is trying to be a minimalist or already has these things (because the beauty is you mostly only have to buy them once), why not support what they care about by making a donation to fight for biodiversity, or ending plastics, or planting more trees. So many options and really, if they care about this stuff, this will please them to no end. If you want a list of possible options, check here. 

17. Sign Up to Help the Earth Together

If you know that this is really pressing on a loved one's heart lately, the best thing you can do is commit to being part of the solution with them. Are there groups near you planting trees or taking care of native plants? Sign up for a work day. How about beach clean-ups or even adopting a highway to clean up litter?

It doesn't have to be something huge. Just commit to doing something with them. You will probably make amazing memories and get to feel that warm fuzzy feeling from helping someone!









Ok, I hope this helps! Be sure to poke around for tons of ideas for holiday gifts that can help the world!

HUGE DISCLAIMER! READ THIS FIRST! This post is not to suggest that I live in absolute terror or disgust of the gifts any family member (including you, family member reading this) has given me. In fact, I never mention anyone here for good reason- no one has ever gifted our family anything I was offended enough by to remember. Also worth saying, the last few gifts I have asked for on behalf of my kids have been plastic, charactered, and a huge hit. I wrote this because I see the same question come up a million times this time of year- "what do I do about this gift that goes completely against what I believe?" I thought I had a good answer (be grateful, give it time to grow on you, and if you as a vegan really can't find use for the meat plate, give it away). Though I understand the emotion of getting a gift that feels counter to what you believe, this post is in no way a particular indictment from my personal life. My goodness. 

So, you have made some real changes, and people are starting to notice. You are trying to cut down on stuff in your home. Or you want to stop using plastic, as you are concerned what it is leeching. Or you absolutely don't want any more Made in China toys as part of your kids collection.

So obviously everyone will keep this in mind for Christmas, right?

Yeah, not so much. This problem (people not respecting your lifestyle with their gifts) comes up over and over again.

I have noticed this anxiety on all of my environmentalist, minimalist, and zero waste groups. It doesn't matter how many times you ask for museum memberships or date nights or any other kind of experience gift, somebody is still going to buy you a fleece blanket from Walmart. Or a large collection of Melissa and Doug nonsense. Or a collectors set of Star Trek Christmas wreaths.

Someone is going to buy you something (often many things) that explicitly contradicts what you are trying to turn away from.

Now, we all have gotten gifts that we weren't excited about. It's just part of life that some people's perceptions don't line up with our actual wants and needs. But now this can create genuine stress, and here's why:

It works against what you are trying to do with your whole life. Your goal is a new approach to stuff that goes against the mainstream and hopefully chips away at the constant surge of nonsense. Those goals matter deeply to you. They have to, because it is easier to not do them.

It's also stressful because it feels like something that should feel like an act of love and feels like a slap in the face instead.

People aren't just perplexed by you wanting less or wanting things that do good. They are offended by it. It makes them feel defensive about their own choices. Or they don't take it seriously. Or it is far enough out of their norm that even their efforts at "trying" feel like nails on a chalkboard.

If you have kids, it can be even more stressful, because it puts you in conflict with your kid. For example, if you are trying to live a minimalist life, you may not want a bunch of screens, or fiddly toys with 100 parts, or yet another stuffed animal collection. But once that gift has been opened, you either have to roll with it or be the bad guy, and that sucks.

I get it- I have been there. I am so outspoken about this stuff, which only makes me that much more annoying to my family members (and I was pretty annoying before). That being said, I have seen serious frustration about this is usually rooted in something deeper (larger patterns in relationships), so if this more than a little upsetting to you, my help probably isn't enough.

So these are the steps I think work best when faced with a meat plate the year you became a vegan.

1. Smile and Say Thank You

Maybe that person meant it as a dig or maybe they are totally oblivious that this is not what you are about. Either way, no reaction other than gratitude is appropriate or useful.

No one has to get you a gift, and even if that may be preferable to you, they feel like they made an effort, and it is healthy and positive to acknowledge that effort. Gifts at their best are a love language so the only response worth having is gratitude and love.

If they meant to set you off, don't give them the pleasure. If they just don't get you, it's ok. Millions of women for years have smiled and accepted Bath and Bodyworks gifts that scream "hey, you could be anyone to me." So no snide remarks, or rolled eyes, or even meaningful cross the room face making. Just smile and say thank you.

Side note- Do NOT mention the environment at all unless they bring it up first. Terrible plastic gift? The only response is thank you. If they bring up plastic, you can talk about it, but only if you can do so gently. No one has ever had their mind changed by feeling attacked.

2. Go for a Walk, Take a Deep Breath, Take an Imaginary Phone Call

If you have an emotional reaction to the gift and need to vent, then wait until it makes sense, and take your moment away. Vent away. Send someone who gets you a really sassy text about it. If this is about something deeper, then handling those emotions will probably take more time and effort, but you can at least give yourself enough time to collect yourself. Whatever you need to do so that you can come back in and smile (and maybe mean it, because it is just stuff).

Just remember, you are on this path because you realized material possessions aren't worth the stress on your life or stress on the environment.  So don't give these gifts more power than they deserve. Smile and go eat another cookie.

3. Take a Minute and Write a Card

Your instinct may be to toss the eco-obnoxious gift immediately. But it never hurt anyone to let the sting wear off a bit. Obviously, if you want to return it, you may have less time, but you might be surprised that the gift is actually good? Or you might hear of someone who needs exactly what you have got.

One way to really reconsider? Write a thank you card. This old school tradition is also an opportunity to reflect on the thought, effort, and money that went into the gift that is bugging you. So try it, and see how you feel.

This big Capitalist machine creates a constant sense of urgency, because people make poorer decisions when they are under that time crunch. It goes the other way too. With a little time, you might come up with the perfect thing to do with said gift whether that be in your home or elsewhere.

This is especially true for gifts for kids. If you give it a second, it will be pretty clear whether it's a battle worth having or not.

4. If it Really Doesn't Grow on You, Get Rid of It

Once a gift is given, it's yours and you can do what you want with it. That's the truth of adulthood, and we all abide by it. Give the gift a little time, because it may be plenty useful. If not, offer it in your local Buy Nothing Group. Donate it to Goodwill. Return it to the store. Don't throw it away, because someone will love it. But that person doesn't have to be you.

This rules change if you have a kid and the gift is for them. Since the gift is FOR them, you only have so much control. The older they get, the less control you have, and that is a GOOD thing. Their relationship with the gifter is independent of you and you want lots of people around you to love that tiny person. Because a community around them is one of the best gifts you can give them. So don't try to break up a bond just because it doesn't suit you.

Plus, being too heavy-handed only creates the resentment that will fuel their future plastic binges. Be a hard ass about something else- we need them using reusable bags as adults.

So, even if you hate it, if they love it, it's a keep. Sorry, friend.

That being said, not every gift is going to be a homerun. They usually get a lot of presents at once. Even if you slow the roll out, some will inevitably float to the top of the pack. If that toy isn't one of the ones getting lots of use, regift it. Keep things in their packaging until they ask to get it out. If it isn't great for the environment and your kid doesn't use it, there's your answer.

5. Be Honest... Later

If you are worried about creating the expectation that you just love seasonal candy dish photo gifts, you can always throw a hint in or mention another gift that you really loved. They love buying clothes? Tell them about how much you love secondhand. Etc. If you think the person doesn't know what you care about, tell them.

Just stay positive, because no one owes you a gift. And again, the person who knows damn well and is meaning to push your buttons is only waiting for your negative feedback. Never give them the pleasure.

But what if said person walks in and notices that said object is gone? Where is your personalized plate covered in inspirational quotes? Where is the giant little tikes car I bought for your 700 square feet apartment? The answer is to assess the person and be as truthful and kind as you can ("We are really trying to cut down on plastic in our home" "A neighbor really needed it, and it felt so good to help them" " I appreciated the thought but...").

 If they are blunt enough to ask the question, they need to be able to take the answer. I have had these conversations, and they are awkward, but I never just toss gifts for my kids without at least giving them a try. If not and all else fails, say it broke. Or you lent it to someone and haven't got it back.





Ok, these are my simple answers to this pretty complicated question. What do you do when someone gifts you something truly terrible? Say something then or wait it out?

This year, the blog started off with a big dip. In our efforts to make it more professional-looking, as if someone other than my grandma reads it (I love you Grammy), we redid a lot of things. Little did I know, those changes mess with all sorts of blog rigamaroll, and you lose a bunch of traffic.

I feel pretty excited that I stuck with it and kept building up the blog even after the big hit, and now the blog is as big as it was back then (with fewer Russian crazyviews too- score!). This is by no means a masterful blog, and I am no expert, but I do think I write some content that could really help somebody. I hope that anyway.

Here are ten of my favorite things we talked about this year- consider checking them out if you missed them before!

10. Where to Buy Eco-Friendly and Awesome Holiday Cards

I love this post because it has to be one of the EASIEST switches that people don't even realize they could make! So many great companies out there, so there is no reason to shop somewhere like tinyprints or Shutterfly, who may have nice enough designs, but use virgin paper. Why not use recycled when you can?

9. Don't Buy from Exxon Mobil, Instead Try...

2017 has been ROUGH on the environment, and like so many areas of the government, seemed to attend to the needs of an uber privileged few instead of the people and the country as a whole. For the "environment" agencies and their leaders, it's all about selling our land and our standards to fossil fuels. It's not enough to yell at our dealers about how sketchy they are- we have to start ending our own addictions to gas and plastic.

8. The Best Wording for a "No Gift" Birthday Party Invitation...

No gift parties are still a controversial move for parents, but this blog tries to lay out ways to cut off the gifts with positivity, humor, and grace (because somebody is definitely not going to listen to you. And that someone is Grandma).

7. Could you Get Rid of 2,017 Things for 2017? 

I took on a big challenge for this year, and even though I am only 5/8ths of the way there, I am still so glad I did it. Excited to hear from friends and readers that they tried it too, and you better believe we are going to try it again next year. Because we all have too much stuff, and we can help fulfill the needs of others by being less attached to what we have.

6. Don't Buy Modcloth, Instead Try...

Walmart bought Modcloth this year. Blech. Rather than just harass the company for selling out (even though it does really suck that they did), I offer other options to give your money to. I will not buy from a company I don't respect, and I always believe another option exists. Here is a perfect example of how this is true, and it got really enthusiastic traffic as well.

5. The Best Clothes to Buy Secondhand

I love secondhand shopping for the sake of the environment, but you have to get over the stigma to see what great possibilities are out there. So we spent a month focused on clothes and especially on thrifting. Letting go of our obsession with the "new" frees us up to all sorts of fun new possibilities. Hopeful more and more people start thrifting!

4. Where to Donate VHS Tapes

I kicked off 2017 with a month of donation possibilities, because the less we just throw in the trash, the better. Little did I know this post would become one of my most popular of the YEAR. I mean, this gets clicks everyday. Just goes to show there are a lot of VHS tapes out in the world- do you really need to get things on Blue Ray if it is just the VHS of tomorrow?

3. Four Practical and Meaningful Ways to Limit your Gifting

This post really clicked with readers, and it makes me feel encouraged that so many people want their Christmas, Hannukah, and birthday gift piles to get SMALLER. The "fantasy" we are sold is that things have to get bigger to get better, but I know more and more people see that is a lie. We waste so much money and energy on stuff because we are worried our presents (and our presence) isn't "enough" but I hope you feel empowered to enjoy your holidays another way.

2. Deciding What We Have and Who We Are Is Enough

I keep writing this blog as a whole because I am hopeful that when people see they have other options they might make changes that fit their life. I genuinely believe that everyone has so much more to give the Earth than just be a constant consumer. I think you are amazing, and I hope you can see that all of these messages that tell you that you aren't enough are lying to you.

1. 75 Crazy Easy Ways to Get Plastic Out of Your Life

I am so proud of this post, because I think every one of us can find things we already do, things we could do easily, and things that make us face up to our own addictions to plastic. Letting go of plastic is HARD, and it forces you to step against the grain of everyday American living. But it is so worth it. I also love that the picture is of a straw, because one of my favorite things that happened all year was that my brother-in-law gave up serving straws at his restaurant! We can all do something great.  Hope you check this out if you haven't already!


Runner Ups (it was a better year than I thought!)- Hey Millenials, Give Bar Soap a Chance, Don't Buy Old Navy or Gap Clothes, Instead Try... How to Still "Be In" the Paris Agreement, 10 Green (and Perfect) Gifts for Father's Day, How to Throw an Eco-Friendly Graduation Party, Unique and Eco-Friendly 6th Anniversary Gifts, Don't Buy Monogrammed Napkins, Instead Try...



What a year! So excited to still be doing this and hopeful that it continues to grow in 2017. I believe that no one person can save the world alone, but if we all work together and keep trying to do something, things can still be great in the future.

10. Hawaiian Wings (in Washington)

Sometimes, you spend a whole morning at a Children's Museum and then it's time to eat. So you quickly look up what's good on yelp, and walk to a Hawaiian place a block away. Doesn't sound like a life changer, but those wings were so so good. Crispy and delicious. Finding good fried chicken doesn't happen everyday (or you will die) but every once in a while, it makes eating meat totally worth it.

9. Biscuits in North Carolina

We took a trip to the South in September to see friends and family. In Asheville, we stood in line for Biscuit Head, and I don't think the praise is undeserved. I knew we were in the right place when they had a Ron Swanson quote first thing through the door.  I got the mimosa fried chicken biscuit which was sweet, spicy, and delicious, though way too big to eat it all. We also got a fruit plate for our baby that was epically huge. Southern people love giant food. I was happy with the food and so excited for the company we ate it in.

8. Oink Lunch

A gem from Edinburgh, this local chain makes sandwiches with pork, stuffing (you can get it with Haggis) and deliciousness. It was so simple and good. Not on the Boy's list, but he is wrong this was delicious. It says so right on the wall!

7. Matt's at the Market's Scallops

The Boy got me tickets for Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrors exhibition (so different than what I expected, but we had fun talking geneology with other Seattlites in line and I am still thinking about it). After our special weekday date, we checked out Matt's at the Market, which people say is one of the best places to eat down there. We had an awesome view of the market AND I ate the best scallops EVER. I know, scallops aren't the most exciting thing, but these were SO GOOD. Isn't the plate so pretty? Can't wait to go back again, because this is definitely in my Seattle top 10 now.

6. Dahlia Bakery Chocolate Cookies

My friend Andre brought us amazing chocolate cookies when he came to have dinner at our house. What a friend! Problem was it was the middle of Lent and we had given up chocolate. We ate them to be gracious hosts- you can't turn down a guest's gift, right?

 They were the best chocolate cookies ever. Sorry, Jesus.

Was it just breaking our Lent promises that made them so delicious? No, we went and got more later this year, and those cookies really are that good. They are from the Tom Douglas bakery, and I will be hankering for one everyday from here on. Even during Lent.

5. Open Air Scotland Brunch

Our first full day in Scotland, we woke up around 11 (a full 5 hours earlier than the day before), and we headed downstairs to the little cafe in Humbie to have a completely memorable breakfast/lunch. We got an Air BnB outside of Edinburgh, one of my favorite places we have ever stayed, which was on top of the small town's only shop and restaurant. It meant we could get fresh bread and Diet Coke whenever we wanted. It also meant we could have amazing sandwiches (and my favorite veggie tart EVER- I know it looks burnt but it was so good) by just walking downstairs. Plus, we got to eat it sitting in the grass in big open Scottish fields with cows, long distance bikers, and not much else in the distance.

We could feel that we were somewhere special, though we perhaps did not anticipate how much adventure (see, smashing a rearview mirror) we would have that day. It also turned out to be our most delicious meal on our whole big trip.

4. Hama Hama Open Air Oysters

For Valentine's day, we drove to another part of Washington we hadn't explored yet. The trip, if we are being honest, was not super successful, but in our desperate (and blow out filled, if I remember right) drive to stay out of an air bnb not safe for kids, we stopped at the Hama Hama Oyster farm, which had an open air restaurant where you could drink hot apple cider and eat oyster shooters. It was cold, but it was fun- we even got to walk on a big field of oyster shells after we were done!

3. Salare's Fancy Macaroni and Cheese

So, we had lots of date nights at restaurants this year (you can't do that many things when you are still wearing an infant on a date). Most places weren't too fancy (and so many Seattle restaurants look like fancy lumberjack mess halls with new American small plates), but I did really like Salare, which is on the fancier side. And they had crazy good macaroni and cheese. The picture isn't that great, but  we still talk about this mac n cheese long after we've forgotten which one was Marine Hardware and which one was Brimmer and Heeltap. Seriously, Seattle, no more

2. Anything with Beets, Goat Cheese, and Pesto

I tried a beet salad at Root Down in the Denver airport that basically shaped our entire year. Beets, pesto, and goat cheese is the best combination ever, so we have tried our own salads, and a crazy amazing beets pasta that our kids beg for (no joke, they love it so much and they look like cannibals). Beets noodles makes me proud too, because it just goes to show you can try new things and have them be great.

I never thought I would like beets, but like so many things, it just depends on how you make them and what you put with them. I even love these roasted veggie (see- beets) quesadillas, who would have ever expected! Now we eat them all the time. They can be so freaking good, and as my husband says, it is the year of the beet.

1. Eventide Oyster Co

This year, we took our sons to my grandparents' cabin in Maine for the first time. It was so fun to watch them play with my Grammy in the lake, throwing in rocks and watching for fish. One of the days there, we spent the morning at the lake with her, then we went to Portland in the afternoon, to play at the children's museum (milking the same cow I did as a kid!), then we went to Eventide Oyster Co for dinner.

Who can fight with oyster shooters and Thomas the train?

It was crazy awesome. First, God bless nice restaurants with outdoor seating, because we can bring our toddler craziness without stressing too much. Even better if the food is awesome- we had oysters, a steamed bun lobster roll, and a ridiculously good tuna crudo. Snobby white people food? Yeah, probably, but we also had cheerios, so that balances it a little right? It can be hard to know what you can get away with when you have two very busy little boys, so it just felt good to share that with them and have them mostly really like it. The meal was just fun and laid back, and we had fun sitting in the sunshine and eating plate after plate.


Ok, so reading my list is great and all, but you go make your list! What are some of your best or favorite meals this year?

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.

But there is a new way to give gifts, that makes a lot of sense. Instead of handing out more stuff no one needs, more and more people are giving experience gifts and other gifts that don't take up any room under the tree.

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.

Another big bonus of this kind of gift- it is perfect for last minute shopping! You can get a gift card or membership even after prime isn't going to help you.

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, won't create a bunch of waste, and are sure to be remembered for years to come.

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 to fill their house, 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!

This year, we are giving both sons quality time gifts- one is going sledding, and the other is going to do music lessons with his dad. Last year, we took our Bub to Daniel Tiger Live for his birthday, and he loved it. This year, he went bowling with his cousins- he loved that too!

Kids like toys, but a cardboard box or a trip to an empty field is still more fun if you are there ready to play. Think about what they love to do and figure out a way to make it special.

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. Or you can get in there, and do it yourself (if it doesn't sound like enough gift, you could get the supplies needed as well).

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 bump this time of year. It can really help someone out. Cookies are a little typical, but you could do something fun with treats too! Give your mailman a tin of cookies shaped like letters, or give your animal-loving family member cupcakes that look like critters. Make it creative and fun!

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 and basics (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! And it doesn't really matter their relationship status- friends like getting dinner together too!

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! Here is a mighty incomplete list of places that could use your help in your friend's honor.

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, Seriously, they have too much already.

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 entropy monster toddlers 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. I have also heard of people doing a load of laundry for a neighbor once a week as the world's best gift.

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!

Last year, we bought our niece piano lessons, and it has to be one of my favorite gifts we have ever given. It's so fun to come back and hear her play the piano, and you can tell she is so excited about what she is doing. Any toy we bought her would be off to Goodwill in a few years. But she will be able to read music her whole life. And she has proven to herself one more time in one more way that she can do things that are hard. How freaking cool is that?!?!?!?

 There are so many options out there, from painting classes to piano lessons. The happiness and pride that comes from learning something new and being that much fuller of a person can't really be beat by something in a box.

10. Massages

 I think massages are crazy 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 who feel skeevy being touched by a stranger.

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!

The Inner Child

from Bean Works Crochet

11. Cacti (USA)- Because if you haven't got one of Akron's famous crocheted cacti, you are missing out. Seriously though, these are so cute! Who doesn't want a Christmas cactus?

12. Cards (USA)- These playing cards are made in America, and nothing says holiday cheer like a good game of rummy or solitaire. I love these "Little Feminist" cards even more.

13. Puzzles (GU, USA)- You could get puzzles at basically any level and then put them in the stocking broken up (maybe not great for those 1000 piece puzzles).This is one you can definitely find in consignment stores Springbok Puzzles is one of the oldest puzzle companies in the US! Tavern Puzzles makes the cool metal puzzles you have to jimmy with to get things apart.

from Wild Rabbits Burrow

14. Stuffed Toy (USA)- Oh, you are too mature to want stuffed animals? It must really suck to be you! Maturity be damned, you can buy all sorts of cute little someones to stuff into a stocking. What adult doesn't need this Christmas cactus from Wild Rabbits Burrow in their life? Oh, most of us? Well, you might still find a perfect and adorable gift in  another Etsy store like my new favorite warmpersonality.

from Oanabefort

15. Temporary Tattoos (USA)- This must be on trend, because you can find any style of temporary tattoo. Is it mature to wear these? Absolutely not, so it makes for a fun Christmas day! Who doesn't want a Christmas face tattoo?  One year, I got a henna set for Christmas, and it was super fun until it exploded on my poor cousin Paige's hand. You can do it better than I did. Tattly Temporary Tattoos make some of my favorites like these nautical ones and the vegetables (finally fulfilling my eggplant tattoo dreams). I also love this anemone tattoo from Oanabefort.

16. Peg Dolls (EF, USA)- You can buy (or even better, make) peg dolls of any character in the world. It might seem like a strange toy for an adult, but I also love that you could get personalized peg dolls (like these from Sudie's Corner Shop). Get a parent peg dolls of their kiddos, or you could gift a peg doll of someone's favorite person as an encouragment (or joke). There are definite possibilities here!

Treat Yo Loved Ones

from Off Chutes

17.  Luggage Tags (R, USA)-  Luggage tags are simple, fun, and actually useful! My favorites are these recycled parachute tags from Off Chutes- I like when they are bright and eye catching, because it helps when you are at Baggage Claim. A good luggage tag can be a lifesaver, and it is just the sort of small detail that can freshen up an older piece of luggage.

18. Backscratcher (USA)- You know you're a grown-up when your back hurts. A back scratcher can stick right in a stocking, and you can even get one shaped like a moose! Merry Christmas indeed!

from Juxtapositions SC

19. Bottle Opener (USA)- Simple addition that people sometimes need? I like the wall mounted ones best (because who doesn't want a little cast iron on Christmas?).

For the record, there are always five + bottle openers at our Goodwill when we go browse. Go get one for a dollar.

from Restrung Jewelry

20. Bracelets (R, FT)- My dad usually gives a piece or two of really fun jewelry in my stocking, and I think that is a fun addition. You don't have to spend tons of money to get ethical jewelry. I love these bright and colorful bracelets made from recycled flip flops. You could split the group between stockings too. I got a set of these, and they are actually prettier in person. Super cute and great for the environment!

I am currently obsessed with recycled guitar string bracelets, especially these beauties from Restrung Jewelry (you can try Fox Designs Jewelry or Robin and Leigh as well). Want more recycled options? Try R3SK8 Products, that makes mod jewelry out of old skateboards. You can find so many recycled bracelets- recycled bike chains, paper, clarinet keys, marine rope, forks, and fly fishing line!

from sleepy mountain

21. Fun Jewelry (USA)- It's very important to understand that no stocking jewelry should be fancy or expensive. Fun. Playful.  Lucky for all of us, Etsy sellers are the geniuses of fun jewelry, so you are bound to find something perfectly awesome for your loved ones. Sleepy Mountain sells the best studs I have ever seen, from Obama to Leslie Knope. If Santa is reading this, I would basically love anything from this store (someone loves Parks and Rec as much as I do). Obsessories also sells hilarious stud earrings (you can even get custom ones of your dog) . Do you see there is an endless supply of options here? You can find the perfect piece of kooky jewelry this year.

If you want to be classy (booo), you could also get a bracelet with an initial on it or the amazing minimalist earrings from Sarah Zentz. You can also buy minimalist jewelry like these earrings from Madera Lane. .

22. Hair Ties (USA)- Pumpkin Bowtique has lots of choices of hair ties, in any color you can think of. Check these stores- Azurea Studio, LoveMiaCo, SockBunStudios, and KenzLaurenz.

23, Nail Polish (USA)- There are lots of great beauty articles out there about eco-friendly and vegan nail polishes. I love Essie polish (in most drug stores and Target), which doesn't have the nasty chemicals and is made in the US, but as far as I know isn't vegan. Ginger and Liz is vegan, and their polish is 12 dollars a pop. Butter and Priti NYC are made in the US 5-free, and they go for 15 dollars a bottle (these aren't cheap, but isn't it better to have 1 healthy nail polish you use all the time than 3 much less responsible ones you use once in a blue moon?). Suncoat and Earthly Delights are both non-toxic/ vegan as well, and they are more at the Essie price.

24. Pocket Mirrors (USA)-  I think these pocket mirrors from Boy Girl Party would make a great stocking stuffer, because it could easily stay in a purse for emergency moments. The Boy got me the dinosaur one last year, and it totally reflects things. And they are only 6 bucks and made in the US! Win! Glorious Weirdo makes all sorts of mirrors, but my favorite might be these Ghostbuster ones. Modern Girl Blitz makes a badass feminist mirror.

from The Little Soap Store

25. Soap (EF, USA)- I am now fully convinced that everyone should buy their soaps locally. You can find MULTIPLE options to buy soap from in your area, not to mention your country! So why do we keep buying soap wrapped in tons of packaging that has traveled such a long way? You can also find about a million hilarious and fun soap options to put in a stocking.

I love these doughnut soaps from The Little Soap Store. How cute is that! Also awesome, this trout on a rope soap from Dope on a Rope Soap (less keen on the marajuana soap, because pot smells awful, but embrace the stinkiness if that's you). These lump of coal soaps are cheeky and fun too. Or, if you are nervous about buying something you like, I would recommend a small set of leftovers/ samples, like Lippincott Soap Co sells. What a good idea, and your loved one could test soaps and find the ones they like best.  Everyone, buy some fun soap for stocking stuffers this year- another EASY and fun switch!

Check your local goods stores! You are going to be amazed what bar soap is available near you!

from Pact

26. Socks (USA, R)- Only fun socks, because just regular socks is just not a treat at all. Our favorites, Darn Tough makes their socks in Vermont and they have a lifetime warrantee. These are the socks to get.

Solmate Socks makes adorable mismatched socks in bright, fun colors. We bought them for the Bub, and they have stood up to lots of wear. We also love Pact socks, which are fair trade and currently on sale.

27. Underwear (FT or USA)- You stop believing in Santa, you get underwear for Christmas. This is adulthood, and it is kind of the worst. On the other hand, you can get super cute and soft underwear from Pact in both men's and women's! Blue Canoe makes some of my favorites too. Commando sells underwear and pasties, so if you are the first person to put pasties in a stocking, I salute you.

28. Make Up Pads (USA, EF)- These reusable make up pads will help cut down the big pile of garbage made by make up usually. Plus, they look like little crocheted frisbees to throw around. Marleysmonsters is an Etsy treasure, and they sell these too. Really, Etsy has like millions of reusable make up pads.

from HawkAndSquirrel

29. Coasters (R)- There are just so many recycled coasters on Etsy, and it could be a really useful addition to your giftee's home. Just make sure you pick something that works with their aesthetic. I like these recycled magazine ones from Hawk and Squirrel the most, but you have so many options.

30. Hats and Scarves (USA, R)-  First, if you can knit, this would be a really special addition to your stocking gifts. If not, I have pointed you to a bunch of Etsy gems for hats and scarves on this post. If you want something a little more charitable, check out Love Your Melon or Krotchet Kids.

Electronics

31. iPad Case (USA)- Maybe a little big for a stocking, but you could potentially roll it around the top to pile things higher, like my dad does with magazines (seems a little symbolic, right? Replacing magazines with an iPad cover?) 8th Day Encore has lots of pretty combinations of fabric, and I would probably pick them for that. Wooden 45 sells covers and pouches out of Michigan.

from Pela

32. Phone Covers (EF, C)- It may be mighty challenging to buy a cell phone made in America, but finding a case made in the US is easy as pie (and it can make that phone last so much longer).

 Pela makes phone covers out of  compostable bioplastic (mostly for iphones), which is hard and durable, but also biodegradable. They are a genuinely awesome company, so check them out.

I have done some research on the phone cover as well. You can check my favorite stores here.

Kitchen Stuff

34. BBQ Rubs or Spices (USA)- Giving new spice rubs to experiment with might be the perfect gift for a foodie or barbeque lover. Gusto sells cute little 4 packs of hot wing rubs for 9 bucks, among their pretty wide variety of barbeque spice rubs.

from Kline Honey Bee Farm

35. Honeys and Jams (USA, EF)- My mom brings us jam from her garden sometimes when she visits, and other than one jar, we  have eaten through them all. I feel like this could be the perfect Christmas treat! And you could introduce someone to a new favorite! I love these Kline Honey Bee Farm packs, which has 6 different tasters, so people can find their favorites. Boondock Enterprises sells small jars of a wide variety of jam so they will fit in a stocking.

36. Salt and Pepper (USA)- Ok, we all wish I meant the kind that came with Spinderella, but this is pretty great too. Get some kind of cool salt (we have pink finishing salt) or peppercorns to put in the shakers all year long. Lots of use and fun idea. If you live by a spices store, some cool spices would make a great gift too.

from Comfortably Lovely

37. Fridge Magnets (USA)- You can find TONS of magnets on Etsy, and they make for a fun addition to any stocking. In fact, you can find amazing recycled ones, like these recycled circuit boards from ReComputing or minimalist blocks of wood from geekgroupart.

38. Measuring Cups and Spoons (R, USA)- They don't all fit under the 15 dollar cutoff, but these cups from Preserve and spoons from Architec do. They might come in handy if the ones in your kitchen are worn down past usefulness.

Again, Goodwill friends. Super easy and cheap to get measuring implements at Goodwill. Find something metal that will last and never think about it again.

39. Popcorn (USA)- If you don't go the route of the giant popcorn tins, you could get gourmet (??) popcorn kernels and fun original popcorn toppings from Dell Cove Spices. In general, I think I would be incredulous about something like this, but they have great reviews and it sounds pretty delicious. It would also be a fun bottom level for a stocking if you love someone with no sweet tooth.

40. Sink Brush (USA)- Nothing says a good time like a sink brush. Still, you need them, and this one looks great. You can also get plastic-free ones on The Refill Revolution.

from amazon

41. Spatulas (USA)- These Fletcher's Mill Spatulas come in pretty colors. I like having a few in different sizes, so I can scrape out different vessels and so forth. Because no one should make the tragic mistake of wasting cookie batter.

42. Spoons and Turners (EF)- Stuff one of those into a stocking instead of one of those Hershey Kiss tubes? I know ours look a little rough, and you can't cook with those candy tubes.My beloved Epicurean makes awesome spoons and turners- we love them in this house.  Have you checked out Epicurean yet? They are so cool.

These ones, from Architec, are made of bamboo, and they come in pretty colors.   Lipper International sells bamboo sets as well.

from Amitea Organics

43. Teas and Coffees- Ok, I don't drink hot liquids (why do they all taste like dirty water?), so I am not an expert on these, but you can find all kinds of cool tea and coffee sets. They might make a really great treat for Christmas. Amitea Organics sells sets of multiple teas that looks pretty and festive. Apropos Roasters sells similar packs of coffee, and they seem to be pretty beloved. Why? I don't know. People are crazy and love hot water dirt.

44. Whisk (USA)- Last year, Santa brought both the Boy and I whisks in our stockings, because our whisk (a hand me down from my mom) fell apart. Both of those whisks, one from Target's basic line and one by Giada have both fallen apart already. It's not like we cook that much. We just bought junk. Even a stocking can be an opportunity to gift things that are needed with all of the fun stuff. If you also want to throw in a whisk, you have some great options that are made in the US by Best Manufacturers. We have a Best Manufacturers one now, and you can tell it is well made to last (even against our toddler's mixa mixa mixa). Never going back to Giada's crap.

from Amazon

45. Reusable Straws (EF, USA)- Simple straws like these Hummingbird glass ones can keep so many plastic straws out of landfills. Maybe not for everyone, but if you have a straw-lover in your life, these would be perfect in a bag or office. They have metal ones too if the glass makes you nervous. Super simple, and a genius way to eliminate so much wastefulness!

46. Cloth Napkins (EF, R, USA)- I love cloth napkins. They are so easy to throw in with the laundry and make your table look cool and casual all the time. You can find great cloth napkins for everyday use (no need to get fancy) from Little Blue Nest, Clear Sky Home, Dot and Army, JAQS Studio, or Oh Little Rabbit would look adorable on a table and in a stocking.

47. Lemon Covers (USA)- Who knew a lemon cover was even a thing? Not sure everyone can use it, but it's worth a try if you (or the chef you are shopping for) are up for a citrus-related adventure.

Let's Get Creative

48. Colored Pencils (R)- Coloring for adults is all the rage, for good reason- it's fun! If you want to color, you can use these recycled colored pencils, which are so cool. They are made of recycled newspaper instead of bringing down more trees.

49. Markers (US, R)- Crayola makes markers here in the US, and you can even send them back to be recycled once they dry out.  Sharpies are still made in the US too!

from Obvious State

50. Little Notebooks (USA, R)- Is there anything with more possibility than a fresh new notebook? My beloved Decomposition Books are go to's all year long, made from recycled paper and soy ink in the US. I love them, and they fit perfectly in my bag. If you need something with almost excessive cool, Field Notes has notebook sets as well. Field Notes are so trendy at this point they may be heading to uncool? But they are way better than Moleskine, and they will bend just enough to fit in a stocking.

My new special occasion favorites are from Obvious State, who make modernist notebooks and posters with literary figures and quotes on them. Awesome.

from My Posh Desiigns

51. Washi Tape (USA)- This is a gift you could use to spruce up anything! All the sets at Pretty Tape are adorable. My Posh Designs also does a wide variety of adorable washi tape.  These are fun and different, and open up lots of avenues for creative play that you can still pick up. These pineapples, planets, and pastels are all adorable.

52. Pencils (R, EF, USA)- Did you know about Sprout Pencils? I didn't! They are pencils you can plant in the ground to grow herbs after you are finished with them! How freaking cool is that!?!? Totally biodegradable and genuinely doing good. I just love this. I love that someone thought of this. What a wonderful world. If you get these, tell me how you like them!

You can also get regular pencils out of recycled newspaper, so absolutely no trees came down for these pencils. I hate pencils, but if someone in your life doesn't, these are an awesome option.

from amazon

53. Pens (USA, R)- Pens work perfectly, and these pens (made from recycled plastic bottles) are the bomb. I have some, and they really write well (I am super picky about this). A dozen cost 11 dollars. Never buy fresh plastic pens again! That's nonsense!

More for Home

from MidnightOwlCandleCompany

54. Candles (EF, USA)- We used to impulse buy candles at Target, but they are filled with nasty chemicals, and they are meant to fill your house with them! Blech. Now, I can see a ton of other options as long as I am willing to poke around. You can make small ones yourself for an awesome gift, or you can buy all kinds of American- made and environmentally-responsible ones! Right now, we are burning a Our Own Candle Company candle (maybe too big for a stocking?) and an Eco candle, and they both smell amazing.

This is a perfect place to support a small business and check out some Etsy (or local) makers as well. Our Etsy favorites are MidnightOwlCandleCompany, NapaUncorked, and WinterBeeShop.

55. Tweezers (USA)- The same basic principle as nail clippers- they disappear, and Christmas stockings can help replenish your tweezer supply. Plus, you can find them made in the US!

56. Reusable Keurig Cups (EF)- Have someone in your life who is still using a keurig? That business is terrible for the environment, but less so with reusable k-cups. Perfect stocking stuffer, and you will save them money in the end.

57. Photo Prints (USA, R)- Artifact Uprising has some sweet, small prints (on recycled paper!) that would fit right into a stocking. You could make it into a tradition and put 10 or your favorite memories from the year into your loved one's stocking.

For Out and About

58. Car Escape Tool (USA)- If you are trapped in a car, this keychain sure would be useful. If Leeza Gibbons was Santa Clause, this would be in everyone's stocking. Because holiday cheer means kidnapping preparedness.

from Crave by CRV

59. Key Chain (USA)- Not the most original idea, but you can find some gorgeous and fun options. I love these tassel charms, which are very on trend this year. Perfect if you want to be Hip Santa.

60. Pocket Monkey (USA)- It works as a multitool and as a cute little monkey! Ok, I may not totally understand why someone would want this, but the tool fits in a wallet, so it would fit in a stocking!

61. Produce Bags (USA, EF)- Plastic produce bags are infuriatingly hard to open AND they are terrible for the environment. Not to mention, most of our produce can just roam free in a grocery bag- what's the worst that can happen? That said, a few produce bags for brussel sprouts or jalapeno peppers might be perfect. If you can't just make it yourself (old t-shirts work perfectly), I recommend looking for things that are recycled or made with all natural fibers (no plastic). I like these 100% cotton bags from Tiny Yellow Bungalow. I love these bento bags from Marley's Monsters as well.

You can also find nice sets on Etsy, including from one of my favorite stores Oh Little Rabbit.

Odds and Ends

from Caramels for Karson

63. Caramels (USA, EF)- These caramels are made by a grandma to raise money for her grandsons with heart defects, so this is candy you can feel good about buying. They also have 849 5 star reviews, so if you don't have a huge soft spot for kids with heart issues, you may just like the caramels. I love this one. What a beautiful world we live in that she does this for them.

64. Hot Sauce or other Sauces (USA)- The Boy got a spice blend set one year which really led to lots of fun experiments. You could get something as simple as hot sauce or look around and find something from nearby. There are some neat American brands online- Stonewall sauces (like this garlic rosemary citrus sauce) or Tom Douglas sauces, but you can always find something near you too.

65. Christmas Ornaments (USA)- It would be kind of a cool tradition to put an ornament in their stocking each year that has to do with their year, then they can hang it on the tree. If you are looking to gift for a lot of people, I like this snowflake set from Nestled Pine Works. More cute options? Check urbanfarmcollective, FromMemereWithLove, resplendid, and BlueDragonCraft.

from Flytrap

66. Date Ideas (USA)- FlytraponE sells fun date ideas and other card sets to put in a significant other's stockings. My favorite are the "Bad Parking Notes" which you can leave on bad parkers' cars. Perfect for the Curmudgeon behind the wheel in your life.

67. Golf Balls (R)- Did you know you can buy recycled golf balls? I didn't! It makes perfect sense though. This makes for the perfect stocking stuffer for somebody!

68. Guitar Strap (R, USA)- These guitar straps are made out of recycled seatbelts. Until this moment, I never thought about how many seatbelts never get a second life as a musical accessory. Truly tragic. Perfect for your favorite musician.

69. Seeds (EF)- It may not be time to plant now, but that day is just around the corner. Plants and trees provide individuals shade, food, and (for some people) peace and simplicity. Those packets are the perfect size to stuff in a stocking, and they have the potential to do something really positive for everyone. You could also gift wildflower seed bombs and have adventures spreading wildflowers.

70. Succulents (EF, USA)- These sweet, small plants can add green to your loved one's space (or office) and even help keep their air clean. We want a world with less stuff and more plants, so why not start here?

71. A Small Donation (EF)- The Boy and I were talking last night about what we wanted for Christmas, and mostly he feels like he has everything he needs. If you are shopping for someone tough like that too, why not put in double the candy and put that gift money toward a donation? Think about donating to something that helps the environment, because it needs every bit of help it can get! You can read my recomendations for donation gifts here.

Gift Cards

None of this sounds right to you? How about filling the majority of the stocking with edible treats (oranges, apples, and LOCAL candy) and throwing in a few small gift cards!? You get bonus points if you get these on

72. Uber Gift Cards- Know someone who likes to go out? Or who lives in the city? An uber gift card could be a fun simple gift that helps keep them safe.

73. Grocery Gift Cards- Shopping for someone who you know is just getting by? Don't give them a bunch of cutesy junk they don't need. Help them get back on top of things. I love the idea of getting grocery gift cards instead of cutesy doodads.

Even better? An Instacart gift card. This could be great for new parents, anyone with mobility issues, or just someone who likes being lazy and not going to the store (so everyone). We order from instacart when we are flying home from a long trip, and then groceries make it to the house when we do.

74. Restaurant Gift Card- Most of us like to eat out more than we like those little tubes of Hershey Kisses. Skip a few of the treats and just treat your loved one to their favorite local treat.

75. Movie Tickets- Simple, easy, and it can be a big hit. Look at which of your local movie theaters has a gift card.

Alright, did you make it? I hope you found an idea in all of this you can put to use (I think I am buying 4 or 5 for The Boy's stocking, and a bunch of Seattle Chocolates and calling it a day). If you want to look at the list for kids again, check here.





If you are feeling inspired and want to do even more Green Shopping (Eco-friendly, recycled, used, or Made in the USA), check out the Big List of Shopping Lists!