Thinking outside the heart shaped chocolate box: Green gifts of love, for St. Valentine’s Day and beyond

previously published in The Current

A recent study showed that ¾ of those surveyed prefer 'eco-minded' mates.  With this in mind and Mother Earth relying upon us, we go off in search of green gift ideas for your honey bunny.  I had fun asking people for their ideas and memories of great gifts that did not come from a factory.

It’s always best to begin locally, when looking for eco-friendly merchandise, because it also supports our local economy and that is a win-win.  Base your search on the interests of your beloved and of course, the spending budget, if any.  Some of these ideas cost nothing, but perhaps your time.

If your sweetie likes music, check out the wares of local musicians, who might sell online or in local establishments.  Seek out local music stores for lessons or instruments if you have a bit more to spend.  I feel that it’s never passé to make a mixed tape for someone, assuming they still own a machine that will play the music!  Concert tickets would also be a thoughtful present for someone who really loves a live show. Classes/lessons in other interests such as pottery, belly dancing, yoga, burlesque, ballroom dancing, ethnic or gourmet cooking, etc.-could be a great way to spice up your lives.

For many of us, our wish list includes the gift of massage, which is a healthy option and one that will please almost anyone.   If massage is out of your price range, but your honey needs pampering, consider packing up a basket with goodies like aromatherapy, herbal teas, good dark chocolate, and whole bean coffee from your local health food store. 

Your area thrift store/antique mall/flea market/consignment shop is a great place to find collectibles, old records or books, hobby items which might be of interest to the object of your affection, or for a family member with whom you wish to share holiday love.

If you need some time away, for rejuvenation, check out a bed and breakfast in your area, and your weekend might also include spa services or shopping.  Local art studios would be a great place to visit together, to seek out that special something to hang, or display, creating a memory.  Local artists and jewelers may also be able to create a one of kind piece for your sweetie, even made from old recycled jewelry.  Steampunk creations or commissioned tie dyes are another way to give a completely unique gift.

If your beloved has a sweet tooth, try your local bakery rather than a commercial box of chocolates, or make your own treats.  Who wouldn’t appreciate a dozen of their favorite cookies in a pretty tin or box? Local gift shops and clothing boutiques offer a much better selection of cards and unique gifts, including the never wrong gift certificate at one’s favorite place to shop, even if D.I.Y. is your thing and your card comes from the hardware store. 
 

If you are not already members, consider a membership to your local Food Cooperative.  This decision can change the way you shop, providing  your family with locally produced foods and products to enrich your lives.  Another very green option is to buy seeds for the spring vegetable garden.  Our website, dustbowlseed.com is ready for your orders now, and available 24/7. 

  

If you can find a potted herb, many of them do quite well through the summer months and can add flavor and minerals to your meals. A fruit tree or two, would also be a very green and timely purchase, planting roots into a more healthful tomorrow.  Do a bit of research on this purchase, as some fruit trees require a second tree that pollinates at the same time, in order to bear fruit.  It is also important that the tree is planted correctly and taken care of until it can fend for itself.  Make sure the tree you choose is right for your weather zone.

Another sweet, but long term present might include rescuing a pet from the local shelter.  This is a gift that should be discussed first and well considered.  Pet ownership is a long term commitment you will be making to another living being and it should be a promise you can keep; a forever home.  If you cannot afford proper health care for the pet as well as spaying or neutering, then perhaps a trip to the Zoo would be more appropriate, or a stuffed animal.

photo by Lucinda Roberts

If you are looking for something that requires no spending at all, the following might be up your alley.  Take your sweetie hiking on a warm day and look for heart shaped rocks together, or rocks shaped like frogs or rocks shaped like the state of Oklahoma.  The time you spend together will create a special memory, and the rock you find a treasured memento.  Write a lovely compliment about your beloved on the back of 52 playing cards, illustrating just how much  they mean to you.  Clean their car or house (unless this person has OCD and then perhaps another option is best).  Make a handmade present, such as a candle, drawing, or write a poem or short story illustrating your feelings.  Cook up a special romantic meal.

Any of these ideas can be used for any day of the year and not just on the one day set aside to recognize love.  Reach out to those in your life who are not in a coupled relationship on a day like this, so they know they are not alone.  You know what they say, what goes around comes around, so spread love.