No, I am not talking about giving away moeny, although that always seems to be a popular and much appreciated gift. I'll take some too if you have any extra!

My friends and family will tell you that I am not a person who likes or ejoys the holiday season. Then why am I writing this? Because I went into my favorite arts and crafts supply store last week and they already had half the store stocked with Christmas decorations and all the various stuff that comes out only between Thanksgiving and Christmas although in this case, I did not even see any Thanksgiving turkey decorations or serving platters. There was Halloween candy and costumes and everything else was Christmas. I got my silk flowers and left, but it made me think that maybe it is not too early to suggest a few alternative gift ideas that are less commercial and more environmentally friendly.

• For a family gift, consider an annual National Parks Pass - this is great for family outings, picnics or retirees who like to RV or camp
• For the coffee drinkers on your list really nice reusable mugs are a great idea- you know the ones you look at and think those a really nice but you never would buy for yourself? You could combine a stainless steel commuter mug with some shade grown coffee (I'll do another post later on why shade grown coffee makes a difference.
• A bicycle or gear for the bicycle they already have. It could be a comfy cruiser or a lightweight road bike. It helps lower pollution and ups the ante on your exercise at the same time. Panniers (saddle bags), a new helmet or bike shoes, a new seat or a gift certificate for a tune up at the local bike shop might be more appreciated than you think. Don't forget rechargeable lights and/or reflective clothing are also good gifts in this category.
• Rechargeable batteries are good to include when giving battery operated gifts--as are the charging stations to use them. How about a solar charger for the laptop (I saw one advertised somewhere that was part of the carrying case--not sure how well that one would go through the airport but it's a great idea otherwise. These solar chargers can be used for laptops, ipods, and cellphones.
• Information is a great gift. I love books and my standard reply to people who ask about my home is that I live in a library. My husband shares my passion for books and one of my past business ventures was owning a used bookstore. I now try, whenever possible to buy used books in like new condition from Amazon.com  or give a gift cetificate for a class. It doesn't have to be for a specific class even. Make it for a certain amount to take a painting class, or cooking class or whatever you know they are interested in and would like to learn more about and then when they find a class to take you pay for it or for the portion of it your amount covers.
• How about a gift certificate to the local health food store? Many people are surprised once they get through the door to find that they CAN afford to shop there, if it is a local store rather than one of the big chains. My local health food market often has lower produce prices than the regular grocery store. In addition cereals, grains, beans and even peanut butter can be purchased cheaper in bulk.
• Anything you made yourself, especially for them.

Merry Bah Humbug to all!