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I'm a big fan of Christmas shopping early. Problem is, I never ever do it. Some people live for shopping but I think my cynicism keeps me from fully enjoying trips to the MOA (or any other mall), especially when it's packed to the brim with holiday nutcases. It's such an exhausting production to go shopping during the holidays, isn't it? All the store employees are so worn out they could cry and all the kids in the building are crying (and seem more likely to spill on you than they would at another time of year). I usually buy things for my loved ones online or worse—end up frustrated and panicked, buying lame gift certificates at the only places open on Christmas Eve.
This year though, I'm going to try to practice what I preach and not only shop early but shop green because the Green Gifts Fair is this Saturday (Nov. 21, 2009) at the Midtown Global Market. Local nonprofit organization Do It Green! Minnesota is the host of the Annual Green Gifts Fair. They'll be debuting the 2010 issue of Do It Green! Magazine at the event, so you can pick up a copy for yourself and for all the greenies on your gift list. It's a resource that's published yearly but the articles stay relevant and you will even find the word-work of yours truly inside (I'm not above shameless self-promotion when it's for a good cause).
The vendor list looks amazing with local boutiques, crafters and artists filling up the booths. I already know I'm going to drop some change on a pair Minnesota Mittens. Each unique pair is made by hand from sweater factory remnants by work group for disabled people in Winona. That's probably as "good" a gift as you'll ever find. And they are SO warm—I tried on about 40 pairs last year. The recycled artwork is always stunning and the fashion show (for all ages) is a lot of fun to watch while chowing down on a torta from Manny's or a gyro from Holy Land.
