Charitable giving with your holiday gifts

As I slowly work my way through my insanely long Christmas list, buying gifts for my friends and family whom I cherish so much, I am continuously reminded about how blessed I am. Not just because I have such wonderful people in my life but because we are all fortunate enough to be able to indulge ourselves and our children in this massive shopping frenzy.

I also take the time to give to the less fortunate, whether it is adopting a family in need, putting some toys into the Toys for Tots bin or dropping extra change into the Salvation Army Santa collections. The idea of children without something to celebrate just about breaks my heart:( So when I am shopping for the people I love, love to buy those gifts that give back, too.

Salvation Army

Let's face it, I still have to get something for my dear aunts or teachers but when the gift gives in return, it is much more meaningful. Here is a round-up of some of my favorite charitable gifts this season:


I love this Etched Mercury Class Candlepot from Pottery Barn where 50% of purchase price goes to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Pottery Barn

I also love these super cool, graphic mugs from West Elm that benefit Teach America- 50% of purchase price goes to that charity. Isn't this a great teacher gift? Check them out, they also have mugs which donate to other charities...you can find one that suits that special someone!

Teach America Mug from West Elm

You absolutely have to check out this amazing website, Presents for Purpose. This site is filled with wonderful gifts and all purchases benefit a specific charity. It is like one-stop-charitable-shopping!

Here are some of the things I loved at Presents for Purpose:

Loving this bracelet....and you pick the charity it benefits!

Cool Metro Tote- can be personalized and donates to your selected charity!

Or this beauty of a charm bracelet benefiting children's cancer...so special!

I hope this helped your holiday shopping with a little bit of giving back, too! Do you have any charitable gifts you like to buy? Happy Shopping!

BTW- I was not given any money or gifts for publishing this post- I just like to share the things I like with the people I like:)

Getting ready for some shopping: Our Favorite Things Linkup!

Thanksgiving is only days away and while some of you might have turkey and stuffing on the brain, I am already past that and dreaming about Black Friday. That's right...I am working on my strategies, my checklists and my coffee/bathroom breaks so I don't miss out on any of the 'early bird specials'. There is an art to shopping on Black Friday and over the years, my sister and I have mastered this event. I can't give away all my secrets but let's just say it includes sleeping in your clothes, forgoing a toothbrush and adapting a camel-like bladder for a day. However, for those of you who prefer to shop like normal, hygienic human beings- I strongly suggest you check out the Saved by Suzy Our Favorite Things Linkup to check out some great gift ideas.

One of my favorite gifts this season has to be the West Elm Acacia Slabs. These uber-luscious slabs of amazing wood are a great natural addition to any kitchen or party. And I am just a sucker for something with a monogram! Price range set from $24-$34 plus $7 for monogram and free shipping...you are talking less than $50 for an amazing gift!

West Elm Acacia Wood Slabs

I just bought one as an anniversary present for my sister and brother-in-laws for their 5th anniversary (wood is the symbol for the fifth anniversary!) and I know it is going to become a staple on my holiday shopping list!

Another great gift for one of your favorite ladies is this Antique Candlestick Jewelry Stand from Urban Outfitters. How chic would two of these look on a dresser? Chic and functional....sold!

Urban Outfitters Candlestick Jewelry Holder

 I am also LOVING this faux fur throw from Restoration Hardware...it is on sale now so it is even a better deal!

Restoration Hardware Faux Fur Throw

And has anyone checked out the jewelry at Banana Republic lately? I have been loving me some of that! Check out this sparkler for less than $50- great for the holidays!

Banana Republic Eliza Bracelet

And I have always felt that you can NEVER go wrong with something personalized. Everyone gets a little tickle out of seeing their name in print....c'mon, admit it! I was surprised when I opened the Red Envelope catalog and saw this collection of graphic pillows some of which you can personalize. These would be great in a kids room, den, master bedroom, living room...the possibilities are endless!

Red Envelope Graphic Pillows

Ok, I have given you lazy folks a few great ideas. If you need some more, be sure to check out Saved by Suzy for the Our Favorite Things Linkup. Or if you are one of those people who I so envy who finished all their holiday shopping, you should check out her blog anyway- it is always a great read!

Do you have any gift ideas you would like to share? C'mon, don't be selfish...link up to the party or share right here!