Refrain from wasting at Christmastime

By Judy Blevens, synod Earthkeeping Committee
 
Instead of buying paper tablecloths, plates, napkins, etc., buy lasting items in a color that meets the theme of several seasons. Check the calendar and use your imagination.
 
For example, a gold-colored tablecloth can be embellished with candles of different colors along with items from the yard or seasonal foods. Fall colors can be used for decorating purposes from Labor Day through Thanksgiving. Reds continue into Christmas, through Valentine’s Day and again for the Fourth of July.

Gift bags are easier to reuse than gift paper, lessen the need for boxes and the time spent in wrapping them.
 
And when thinking of gifts, think beyond “things.” Financial gifts given in a loved one’s name to charities or nonprofits serving the needy can help provide for their future as well as grow the gift of giving in the recipient’s heart.

Be sure the organizations to which you donate direct the bulk of their donations to those they serve, keeping administration and marketing costs low. Check ratings of charities and nonprofits at www.charitynavigator.org. And for gift ideas that help others, see the ELCA Good Gifts catalog at www.elca.org.