Occupy Etsy

I've been thinking a lot about the upcoming holidays.  Sam and I don't know where we'll be yet, only that we'll be somewhere in the South Island of New Zealand, celebrating our first Christmas in the height of summer.  It will be a frugal year for us, and our first Christmas away from our families. 

Obviously Christmas is not just about presents, but if you're in the giving mood, I recommend buying from local or independent artists and craftspeople.  Not only does the recipient get a nice gift, but it's a perfect way to give back to small businesses and neighbors at the same time.

I haven't been on Etsy much in the past few months, mainly because I don't want to be tempted, but I went there today and saw a few things that caught my attention.  First, these vintage ornaments from Hindsvik in Canada.  They remind me of a few ornaments we have from my dad's childhood: fragile, glass and brightly colored like candy.  I love those ornaments and I would love to have some more like them one day.

I'm a sucker for screen printed cards, the colors grey and green, kraft paper envelopes & funky patterns, so this notecard by Deadweight in Toronto is just the sort of thing I'd send someone for Christmas.

Another new favorite are these laser cut snowflake ornaments from TimberGreenWoods in Wisconsin.  They're made from sustainable timber harvested from their family farm.

I already own a few pairs of paper bead earrings from RosaRenee, but this pair is my new favorite from her shop.  On a side note, I limited myself to a few favorite earrings for this trip, and one pair is from RosaRenee.  They're great when you want a big, lightweight earring.

Last but not least, I want to feature a cool scarf from barkdecor out of Boston.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends, and I hope you all enjoy your holidays! Perhaps we will be on the beach this Christmas, or enjoying an outdoor barbeque. We shall see.