If you missed the first post, go back and read what we are up to here. Basically, if we each buy a measly $64 worth of made-in-the-USA gifts for The Holidays, we can create thousands of jobs.
Don't know what to buy? That's what I'm here for: to remind you of the cool things that are out there.
There are plenty of arts fairs that go on at this time of year. Artisans and craftspeople, artists of all kinds have wonderful things to show you, and, they hope, sell to you.
Over the years I've received several lovely ornaments that can be used as Christmas tree decorations, or part of a mobile, or just an accent around the house.
Hallmark tries to market their mass-produced (probably in China) Christmas ornaments as so very special. But what is more special than an ornament hand-made by a local artist? Each of the pieces on this page probably cost less than something from the Hallmark store, yet each piece is unique.
Handmade crystal ornament that was given to me as a gift from a student. I've long since lost the original tag, but it's very pretty, don't you agree? It's real crystal, not plastic.
I was giving away some items on freecycle.com, and when the woman picked up her items, she gave me this lovely, handmade paper crane ornament.
And my favorite, the chickadee that is carved and painted wood. This was given to me by a friend.
So you see, not all ornaments have to be Santa, or elves or religious figures. Though they can be those things, too. Head on over to the next arts fair you hear of, and see what you find!
