We all have enough stuff. And the “Haves” in our society certainly have enough of our hard-earned capital. I’m participating in the Black Friday (and beyond) Boycott and not purchasing gifts from corporations this year. If you’re trying to find a way to give something more meaningful, then here are some ideas. Some of them don’t cost you a thing and some will be an investment in something that will have true and long-lasting value for you and your loved ones.

1. Send a message. Write a hand-written letter or handmade card and say all the positive things you love about your person.
2. Plan a hike or something active outside. Yes, winter is here, but we all feel better if we move our bodies and do something physical. Plan a walk or hike after holiday dinners. Coordinate a walking club with your local friends and family. Get outside and notice 5 different things that are beautiful. Being surrounded by nature soothes us and can open up the pathways for us to connect to one another.
3. Contribute positively to your local community. Our non-profit sector is suffering. Our animal shelters are overflowing. Foodbanks are overwhelmed. Many in our community are lonely and suffering. Donate to your favorite local charity. Better yet, plan an hour or day of service to do with your loved ones. Serve meals at an outreach event or distribute warm clothing. Walk a dog from your local shelter. Or foster a pet for a weekend. Bring a warm meal to the elderly couple in your neighborhood. Visit a nursing home.
4. Plan a fun outing and invite others to join you. It doesn’t have to be expensive. An evening of bowling or karaoke or a trip to a new museum or gallery exhibit. If an event requires tickets, buy them now and gift them.
5. Bake or cook something. Holiday cooking and baking can be more than cookies. Gift a sourdough loaf or start. Give away some of your preserved veggies or sauces. Give a copy of your favorite recipe with some of the nonperishable ingredients needed and a grocery gift card for the rest.
6. Craft something. Some of my favorite gifts are handmade, like a macaroni art picture from my mother and hand drawn Dr. Seuss inspired artwork by nieces and nephews. If you don’t think you are crafty but want to learn how to do something, book a class now and get an extra ticket for gifting to a partner. Or plan a craft night at your home and let your friends and family bring their unfinished projects to finish together.
7. Buy local from small, independent businesses. Many small business owners and entrepreneurs are facing challenges of a shaky economy, increasing costs and expenses. Purchase something that will make a difference to your friends and neighbors. Have a friend that sells Mary Kay or some other product? They’ll have some sort of deal for luxurious gift ideas. Know someone that is a massage therapist, creates healing aromatherapy blends? I can’t imagine anyone would be disappointed to receive something that makes them feel better holistically.

I, too have items that can make great gifts for your loved ones.

The “Papers, Pieces, Plans & Peace Kit and Kaboodle.” The Papers, Pieces, Plans & Peace Kit and Kaboodle helps your family easily find the important documents, passwords, and wishes they’ll need someday — all in one place. This kit is a compassionate way to show your family that your love and foresight extend beyond your lifetime. 💗

✨ Two options available:

• Complete Planner Kit — $167 (+ tax)
  Includes your planner printed and organized in a waterproof file box with labeled folders — ready to fill and store securely. 📦 Local delivery and pickup only.
• Paper-Only Kit (by mail) — $75 + shipping
  For those outside the local area who prefer to assemble their own.

I offer coaching and completion plans for all of your end of life documents.

You know you need to have your end-of-life planning done — but it can feel overwhelming to start. I can help.

I’ll give you the information, answers, confidence, and support you need to complete all the papers, pieces, and plans that bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones.

✨ Choose the level of support that fits your needs:
📄 Papers – The essentials for $257
📂 Papers & Pieces – More guidance + extra tools for $427
🗂️ Papers, Pieces & Plans – Full support + personal coaching for $677

Save your family stress, confusion, and conflict later and start your journey to peace today. 💜

In January, I’ll be co-facilitating a women’s writing and art circle. It’s a 12-week Women’s Legacy Creation circle. This is a 12-week writing and art experience where we will meet in fellowship with other women and create an ethical will and legacy project for our loved ones. We will explore what it means to be a woman, investigate what we have learned from the women in our pasts, and celebrate and nurture the unique and valuable gifts we have to share with future generations. We will create a safe, sacred and nurturing space to support and journey together through our past, present and future as the womb of the world. When we heal, we heal the world. Our legacy and stories are what will save us all.

This is a 12-week hybrid course with four in-person sessions and the rest virtual. (If you are not local, and cannot attend our in-person meetings, you will get a replay.) Early bird registration (until Dec. 15) is $197.

If you are interested in any of the above, just send me an email or look for links on the website. I am honored to be able to provide holistic, meaningful support to the people I serve. Your purchases allow me to continue to do this work and expand my free and reduced-price offerings in my community. I thank you for your support.

May your holidays be gentle.