shop well

Are you like me and not yet done Christmas shopping? Here's an important thought and then some shopping ideas to get things moving.

"Every time you spend money, you're casting a vote for the kind of world you want."

(Anne Lappe) 

This is true for food, office supplies, toys, and more. And it's complicated. There are so many factors to consider. You can make yourself crazy analyzing your purchases. I've been there and done that many times.

As you prepare for Christmas, don't overanalyze, but consider making at least a purchase or two that will cast a vote for a better world. Here are some cool options, and I'd love to see more ideas in the comments if you have them.

Hearts for Hearts Girls: buy a doll and help girls around the world

Made by Survivors: an organization that is fighting slavery around the world and selling all kinds of products

Gobena Coffee: organic, fair trade, fresh roasted coffee that supports orphans in Ethiopia...and it's really good

Roma Boots and Toms Shoes: buy a pair, and they donate a pair to someone in need somewhere in the world

Sari Bari: bags, blankets, pillow, scarves, and baby gear made from recycled Indian saris and marked with the name of the woman who made it, a woman who has been freed from Kolkata's sex industry (Keep checking back if you don't see anything available that you like. They restock somewhere around the 10th of each month.)

And if you haven't found something on the list so far, you can peruse this Ethical Holiday Shopping Guide for other ideas or go to the store and buy some fair trade chocolate to stuff in stockings.

Happy shopping!