This holiday season arrives as the world feels a bit different. More than ever before, every dollar spent seems to represent a stance. So, rather than just “Adding to Cart,” I’m doing more research and being more thoughtful about what I put under the Christmas tree. If you’d like to do the same, here are four ideas for things you can give and feel good about.
BOOKS! Always, Books!
As a self-published author, of course, I’m going to start with what I know (and treasure). But also, what’s better than opening a new book? The right story, given to someone when they need it most, is the gift that keeps on giving. Books are beautiful. They’re the best! They make us feel and laugh and think.
But it’s not just about buying the book. It’s also about where you buy the book. Barnes and Noble is a great retailer, with admirable local and national sponsorships. I also often recommend Bookshop.org. Every bookshop.org purchase financially supports independent bookstores. (One caveat: be sure to check out the details about their e-books, which don’t work with Kindle e-readers. They require a special app. Otherwise, all green lights.)
Book recommendations:
- Blazin’ by Courtney Leach (Literary Fiction) – Support an indie author!
- He Answers to Grief by Courtney Leach (Contemporary Fiction Novella) – Support an indie author!
- All the Sinners Bleed by SA Cosby (Thriller)
- A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (Literary Fiction)
- The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (Literary Fiction)
- The Many Lives of Mama Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing, and Healing by Lara Love Hardin (Nonfiction)
Forget raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens … Book recommendations are one of my absolute favorite things! If you have someone on your list, and you’re stumped for a title, message me!
Money for Good
Everyone cares about something. Find out what that is and make a donation in your loved one’s honor. Some organizations may even send you a gift as a token of appreciation for your generosity.
Here are some I’ve donated to for others:
I like to print a receipt of the donation and put it in a box with pretty tissue paper.
Gifts That Go Further
Some gifts make the recipient smile while also kicking back funds to worthy causes. Check out:
- World Wildlife Fund – Symbolic adoptions
- Parks Project – I love this t–shirt!
- LifeStraw
- Two Blind Brothers – This is a cute top
- Grounds & Hounds Coffee
- Cuddle+Kind
Made With Love
I am an Etsy addict. I love the unique, original offerings, but there’s also something that feels really good about receiving the finished product in the mail with a handwritten note from the artist, thanking me for my business. I enjoy a good local arts and craft fair for the same reason.
Here are a few adorable ideas made by the hands of a small Etsy shop owner:
Bonus Ideas!
For the lightning round, I always feel good giving gifts that encourage my friends and family to get outside. From trekking poles and warm, moisture-wicking clothes to rock tumblers and seashell catchers, these are the items that help them delve into the mysteries and miraculous discoveries waiting out in the dirt, sand and forests.
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