{Gifts that Give Back}

So, what kind of gifts do you give?  Creative?  Meaningful?  Special and unique to that person?  Made in China?

Over the Christmas season, my sister-in-law (thanks, Jen!) sent a unique gift that definitely warmed our hearts and

The Gift of Adoption

made us curious about a worthy cause.  The Defenders of Wildlife organization works for the protection of all wild animals and plant species in their natural communities.  For those of you still looking for that special someone on Valentine’s Day, adopting an animal is a great way to give back!  And, what a fabulous idea for any birthday!

After receiving this gift, it got me thinking.  I really want to be more conscious in my gift-giving efforts.  Where do these things come from?  How are they made?  What cause or population does it support?

So Sweet. So Local.

To get our minds rolling, I want to introduce two more ideas.  Although I have not yet done this myself, another wonderful gift idea can be found here.  You receive a reusable bag (better for the environment!) AND you get to feed  one child for an entire school year!  Now that’s a worthy gift!

And, the gift of time.  I recently had the opportunity to treat my good friend, Jessica, to a special afternoon at the Lavender Tea House.  Shopping and dining locally is another valuable way to not only give gifts, but to support those in your immediate area.  The Tea House is also a strong advocate for women in business.  They elegantly display and sell various homemade products and foods to help support the surrounding communities.  People working together to make a difference.  Now that’s something I can put my money into!

“If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give.”

~George MacDonald

So, how will you give back in your gift-giving?  Who or what will you support?  Let me know…..really, I’d love to hear your ideas!