During the Holidays my thoughts quickly turn into checklists....meals to prepare (and wine to buy!), cards to send, a tree to trim, presents to wrap and of course gifts to purchase. But in the midst of all this holiday list-making, there is still a palpable feeling of excitement that hovers in the
There are so many reasons why this really is the best time of the year. Many of these reason
s are personal and involve my family, others are closely held and involve my faith, and some are just downright unique to life on Whidbey Island and the wonderful experience that comes from calling
Shopping the downtown streets of
So when it comes times to shop for the holidays...shopping locally in
This year, shopping local takes on even more meaning. In addition to the ambiance, the personalized service, and the chance to connect with my neighbors, I know that the purchases I make are doing a lot to improve the quality of life for many people I care about and for a community I love.
Today's economy has taken its toll on many, and if I had a choice (which I do) of spending my money with large faceless corporation, or with one of the local stores in my community, I am choosing my hometown.
It's not that going to the mall is bad. In fact, it can be fun. But th
e holidays are more than just pure capitalism; they are a time to give generously, and a time to take stock of our values. By doing my holiday shopping locally I am supporting local shopkeepers and helping preserve jobs in my community. My shopping decisions create jobs, and those jobs support families. It makes me feel good to know that just by changing where and how I shop; I can have this type of impact.
Local gift-buying supports the local tax-base and funds other thing I value, like parks, roads, and public transit.
Shopping in
charities and causes at twice the rate of national chains. That means that the money I spend with a local merchant will have twice the effect....and I feel good about that.
I can't give to every great cause, but my shopping can support merchants in our community and give them a chance to give where I can't. It's all about paying it forward. Just doing what you can to care for the people and the places that you love.
So this holiday season remember, there's really "No place Like Home for the Holidays" and that anyone can HO! HO! HO, but the best
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