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| Art by Be.Franke |
It's somehow December and the holidays are just around the corner in a year that has at times moved slower than a snail's pace and also seemed like it never really happened at all.
This happens to be the 10th anniversary of this little blog of gift guides (where does the time go?)! It's an annual tradition that I always look forward to as I file away ideas throughout the year.
It seems impossible to even approach gift suggestions without first acknowledging how very different this year is for so many and how our approach to giving should change. So - first and foremost there is no doubt that the pandemic has hugely impacted finances for many and buying gifts might not be an option for some this year. Moreso than any other year, don't underestimate the value of a letter, a phone date to catch up, or a series of redeemable "coupons" either for fun free activities to do together or to cover certain household responsibilities. The thought of not having to empty the dishwasher for a week makes my heart sing!
Just as important as acknowledging the impact on our gift-giving abilities - it's also important to recognize the impact those abilities can have in our communities. An easy and necessary gift for everyone on your list is a gift certificate for takeout at the restaurants in their neighborhood and gift cards to any local bookstores or other independent sellers who are struggling to keep their businesses afloat. Plain and simple, that's all you need to do.
The several guides I'm publishing this week are focused on smaller retailers as much as possible. Although many of these items are likely available on Amazon - I'm hoping you will order them from the source, or better yet, find similar items locally.
Instead of theming the guide around far-flung destinations around the world as I have in years past, this year I'm focused a little closer to home, actually literally your home. We'll kick things off tomorrow, but for now, feel free to flip through 10 years of guides below - many items are still available (and don't be surprised if several are repeats this year).
Happy Holidays!
