Changing the culture of gifts
When looking for a gift idea here are a few things to consider that may help you to make a
decision on one item or another. We are going to try to raise our child as green as possible in this
not so green world! I am researching on how to raise a child plastic free (or at least minimally, I
am aware of the fact that there are some things that seem to be unavoidable anymore.) So a
few guidelines that seem to be useful are as follows.

*Will this toy eventually turn into dirt-i.e. could I compost it?
Stones, driftwood, flowers...they will be gone and life goes on!
*Do I know who made this toy or specific item?
*Is this toy beautiful? Have human hands bestowed an awkward grace, a uniqueness lacking in
toys cranked out effortlessly by machine?
*Will this toy capture imagination?

We are going to be comming home for Christmas and I want to emphasize that we are trying to raise Owen with very little plastic in his toy box. There are some really great hand made toys out there that are wood. I know they are harder to find but I would really appreciate it if you are considering getting him toys that you respect our values. This is a good website that you can order from and there are plenty of others. www.gummylump.com It is always more special to recieve a gift that is hand made as well, especially by the persons presenting the gift.