Show your love for God’s creation. Here are some helpful hints for some of the more traditional gifts:
Flowers: Rather than giving cut flowers, look for potted native plants that can then be planted in your yard or houseplants to enjoy through out the year. Because native plants are adapted to local environmental conditions, they require far less water, saving time, money, and perhaps the most valuable natural resource, water. In addition to providing vital habitat for birds, many other species of wildlife should benefit as well.
Chocolate: Be sure to look for Fair Trade chocolate. Fair trade certified products are free of genetically engineered ingredients, and must be produced with limited amounts of pesticides and fertilizers and proper management of waste, water and energy. In addition, cocoa used in fair trade chocolate is not harvested by children. Often children are made to work in harsh conditions, some are forced to work and very few end up being able to go to school. Locally, Sprouts and Whole Foods offer Fair Trade chocolate – and more stores are beginning to carry other Fair Trade items such as coffee, including Kroger and Aldi.
Diamonds or Jewelry: If you’re interested in jewelry, then select diamond rings/earrings/bracelets that were made using fairly traded diamonds. Another jewelry suggestion is finding pieces made from recycled items or a beautiful vintage piece to complement your partner’s style.
Cards: Cards are a great and easy way to express your feelings to your partner in writing. If you are looking to purchase or make a card, choose recycled or reclaimed paper products. Alternately, this year, use technology to show your partner how much they mean to you. There are lots of free e-card sites available so search one that you like and send it to your sweetie.
The best gift you can give doesn’t require you to generate any waste, just tell your partner three special words – “I love you.”
Love the earth! Share a gift!
Love the Earth! -Share a Gift
Show your love for God’s creation. Here are some helpful hints for some of the more traditional gifts:
Flowers: Rather than giving cut flowers, look for potted native plants that can then be planted in your yard or houseplants to enjoy through out the year. Because native plants are adapted to local environmental conditions, they require far less water, saving time, money, and perhaps the most valuable natural resource, water. In addition to providing vital habitat for birds, many other species of wildlife should benefit as well.
Chocolate: Be sure to look for Fair Trade chocolate. Fair trade certified products are free of genetically engineered ingredients, and must be produced with limited amounts of pesticides and fertilizers and proper management of waste, water and energy. In addition, cocoa used in fair trade chocolate is not harvested by children. Often children are made to work in harsh conditions, some are forced to work and very few end up being able to go to school. Locally, Sprouts and Whole Foods offer Fair Trade chocolate – and more stores are beginning to carry other Fair Trade items such as coffee, including Kroger and Aldi.
Diamonds or Jewelry: If you’re interested in jewelry, then select diamond rings/earrings/bracelets that were made using fairly traded diamonds. Another jewelry suggestion is finding pieces made from recycled items or a beautiful vintage piece to complement your partner’s style.
Cards: Cards are a great and easy way to express your feelings to your partner in writing. If you are looking to purchase or make a card, choose recycled or reclaimed paper products. Alternately, this year, use technology to show your partner how much they mean to you. There are lots of free e-card sites available so search one that you like and send it to your sweetie.
The best gift you can give doesn’t require you to generate any waste, just tell your partner three special words – “I love you.”