The Windy Mile

While I was browsing through a few local magazines this morning, I came across some really cool companies – and websites – that I thought would be really great suggestions for the holidays.

It might be a little too late for Roots for Christmas this year (since I already have my fake tree up), but it’s definitely a great idea for next year!  Roots for Christmas is a Chicago-based program, brought to you by Neighborhood Capital and Cob Connection, that allows city-livers to buy real Christmas trees – without just throwing them away.  The process they use is so genius – and I seriously don’t know how I didn’t think of it myself.  What they do is:  dig you a tree (w/ the roots) and let you use it for the holidays.  You then call them to pick the tree up – and they plant it (with the roots!) in places that are in need of trees!  Eco-friendly – and you don’t have to do the work!  How perfect is that?!  *You can order your tree online (only in the Greater Chicago Area) – or you can go pick out your own tree this weekend, December 11, at their farm (see website for details).

Another thing I always think about doing (but have never done) is sending Christmas cards to all my friends.  I always thought they were a waste of money, but CardsThatGive.org has some really great card options – and your money actually goes to some great causes.  Some of my favorites are:  Berry Christmas, Claire’s Menorah, Dove, Tidings of Joy and Snowflakes.

Another really great find is greenheart.  Greenheart is a Chicago-based eco-friendly, non-profit shop.  They carry some really unique (and quite pretty!) items from artisans all over the world.  You can find anything from jewelry to books in their online shop and you can actually feel good about your purchase.  I definitely plan on visiting their physical store soon, but for now I’ll have to browse online.  Check out the Holiday 2010 page for some neat gift ideas.