Out of Chaos an organizing newsletter
Amanda’s 2016 Holiday Guide
This year, in an attempt to have a meaningful holiday, the “grown-ups” in my family have decided to donate to charities in each other’s name. My sister and I came up with an amount (to save anyone embarrassment from under- or overdoing it) and in the spirit of Christmas we are giving to organizations that we think the person will be excited about (so no donating in someone’s name to a cause they oppose). To be sure the charity you are donating to is doing a good job, check them out on charity watch.
That still leaves shopping to do for the children and some friends, so here are some made-in-the-USA gifts I’ve found in my travels:
I saw adorable necklaces at I Am Here: Brooklyn, and the packaging is so nice they don’t need wrapping.
Greta Gem ornaments are hand painted on American-made glass balls. So pretty and sparkly, they make perfect stocking stuffers or hostess gifts. More American-made stocking stuffers: soap, chocolate and even witty wipes for the neat freak in your family.
Living Royal makes very funny socks, with designs that range from Trump to unicorns, so there’s something for everyone.
My nephew likes trucks and puzzles: I found this Fire Truck Puzzle on Amazon; it’s made by a company called Maple Landmark in Vermont.
How about this canvas pouch, made in L.A., for your child’s homeroom teacher?
And if someone on your gift list needs pajamas, Bedhead makes adorable sleepwear, right here in the USA. Though they are a bit pricy, they are well-made and the company has great sales, too.
Of course, we can all take a cue from my perfect daughter, who has been a flurry of activity (and kitchen destruction), making all kinds of body scrubs and spa treats and crafts to give her family and friends.
Remember, the holidays are for family and fun, not credit-card debt and competition. Keep it sweet and simple, and may yours be meaningful and stress-free this year.