Christmas begins with coffee. I don't care if you are "a tea person" or some phony "just water for me" whiner, java appears on every family's kitchen counter Christmas morning. This is because Santa was up all night delivering presents to Rome and Bali and now he/she's back, having just wrapped Junior's bike. Santa is knackered.
I buy
Steeped coffee from Santa Cruz whenever I want a quick, eco-friendly way to get my fix. "The Lineup" features several types, with names like "California Blend", a gentle everyday choice, and the bolder "Breakwater Blend". There are even decaf packets for you of the sensitive stomach.
The company is certified as a "farm-to-cup" B Corp, meaning it has met standards for transparency, accountability and charitible giving. This is 100 percent ethically-sourced coffee, roasted in small batches. It comes in cute compostable bags that mimic the tea experience. I recommend reusing your bag later in the day. The coffee is muscular and flavorful, and it would be a shame to waste it. Buy Steeped at Elm City Market in New Haven, Whole Foods, or
online. The Lineup is about $15, but infividual, smaller assortments cost less.
2. Trees: Find a Christmas tree farm in your area, where you can potentially knab the best living tree for
replanting. It will have its roots intact, wrapped in burlap. (Check with your local farm for best types to replant, such as an evergreen). It is a good idea to dig the hole now, then shop, then replant by December.
Connecticut boasts dozens of such
farms.
The poor man or woman's option (I may or may not partake of!) is buying a preplanted mini tree at the supermarket. Water it daily, turn the lights off when you leave. Keep it in your sunroom and then try replanting in the spring. You may be able to keep it in the pot if it is small enough.
3. Turkeys: I will admit I eat turkey, but I aspire to eatimg
tofu turkey! It has a savory flavor like turkey, but without the guilt. Another option is the turkey farm, where you will find fresh, free-range turkeys. Tastier, but again, hardly a tofu, guilt-free option. If you want, forgo meat or faux meat and make a nice salad, buttressed by stuffing, cranberry sauce, yams and green bean salad.
4. Gifts: My top tips are crafts you make yourself, from afghans to candles. If you aren't crafty, buy a wreath at Michael's and ask the salesperson for some ideas. Just a few red ribbons on a natural or natural-looking wreath is gorgeous. If you know how to knit or, like I do, crochet, get those needles working! Another super eco-friendly gift is in your closet. I inherited my mother's clothes, but some of the vests, tops and pants are too small. Some have designer labels, a perfect gift for a smaller friend or family member.
Finally, don't be that person who overuses store-bought wrapping paper and then throws her poor broken, dried tree outside. If you must buy a tree, try using the trunk for firewood (make sure you have a power saw and know what you are doing!) And don't you dare buy long rolls of that slick, icky drugstore paper when you can make your own. I like brown craft paper, which I decorate with holiday stamps in red, green and silver ink and adorn with natural items such as berries, acorns and twigs.
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