These are tough times in every way. With the financial crisis sucking the life out of our wallets and bank accounts and so much uncertainty on the horizon, it is no wonder that many people are not looking forward to the holidays. However, there is no need to stop celebrating and living joyfully. In fact, this is the best time to continue traditions and have fun.

What if I told you that you can do all of this and double your good feelings knowing you are doing your part for yourself, your global community and the environment? Well, you can. Whether it’s making something from the heart or buying gifts that are socially and environmentally friendly, let this holiday season be a meaningful one.

HAND-MADE GIFTS

Coasters

Coffee spills are inevitable but stained tables are a thing of the past with these coffee coasters. I have white tray tables that I am always bleaching because of the nasty coffee stains and they would also be useful on coffee tables or end tables.

Old CD’s
Contact Paper
Pencil or marker
Hot Glue Gun
Coffee Beans or other decorative trimmings

Place the CD on top of the contact paper.
Trace the outer shape of the CD
Cut with scissor or Exacto Knife
Remove backing of the contact paper and place on top of the CD carefully placing and smoothing.
Leave as is or add trim with hot glue gun

It’s green!
It’s handmade!
It’s thoughtful!

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Coffee Basket

You can find baskets in the 99 cents stores or other liquidator stores. Fill the basket with a favorite grind or whole beans and a nice cup/mug. You can also find sample packs of gourmet coffees in the supermarket. Throw in some coffee candies like Ghirardelli’s Espresso Escapes and you’ve not only got a gift that will be used, it says you really thought about them.

Make the basket look pretty with clear or colored cellophane. Cut a large enough piece that you can cover the basket and gather above. Tie with a wide ribbon.

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Coffee Emergency Kit

Mug
Heating Element
Box of Maxwell House Coffee Singles (Folgers makes them as well or you can use instant coffee)
Can of Evaporated Milk
Can Opener
Spoon
Sugar or artificial sweetener packs
Bottled Water

This is a great gag gift to that serious coffee drinker in your life, you know the one that just can not possibly function without a cup.

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GIFTS WITH A CONSCIENCE

Give a Gift that keeps on giving.

Sweet Unity Farms Coffee

Most know of baseball legend Jackie Robinson breaking barriers using the medium of baseball, but few know of his son, David Robinson, who is breaking barriers as well in the world of coffee. An extraordinary man from extraordinary parents, David Robinson chose to “challenge the contradiction of rural poverty within the multi-billion dollar industry” says the Sweet Unity website.

Buy Coffee. Help 765 coffee farmers. It’s that simple.

http://UpCountryInternational.net/


The Groovy Mind

Fair Trade Coffee and Gifts
Organic, fair trade and eco-friendly gifts.
Fun website and cool gifts.
http://www.TheGroovyMind.com


Come on, get moving. There is still time to get ready for the holidays without breaking the bank.