An American Christmas "Not Made in China"

I'm on the prowl for gifts that are simpler, greener, and Not Made in China. To my surprise, not only can I find nice items, but I've even found them at discount and dollar stores. For example, Garanimal brand children's clothes are made in Bangladesh and Healthtex children's clothes are made in Vietnam. These are adorable and affordable! I've found beautiful holiday towels made in India and ceramic mugs, plates, and a teapot manufactured in Poland (towels and teapot found at Christmas Tree Stores).

Pets are a big part of my family, and since so many of the dog treats and toys are made in China, I recently began making homemade cookies. So, I was extremely happy to find a small American company that makes toys for pets. Every item from PurrfectPlay is made from organic, chemical-free, fair trade materials. Go to www.purrfectplay.com for more information.

Gift ideas that really appeal to me are organizations that are "people and planet friendly". These companies are not only environmentally correct, but benefit the local community as well. One of my favorites is The Women's Bean Project, which is a non-profit organization based in Colorado that helps women break out of the cycle of poverty. Go to www.womensbeanproject.org for more information and to place an order.

World-wide there are thousands of organizations similar to the Bean Project, many of which can be found at econsciousmarket.com. Every product includes the locality, vendor profile, who benefits, listing of the product components, plus - 10 percent of every purchase is given to a charity OF YOUR CHOICE! I'll be doing a lot of shopping here!

Naturally, I am shying away from any toys made in China because you just never know just how much lead or other toxic chemicals are being used in the production of these toys. I definitely want any toy I purchase to be made in the USA where production regulations are stringent (which is why so many companies are manufacturing their products in China!). Amazon.com has done an incredibly good job in finding toymakers in the USA. Go to www.amazon.com; toys & games; made in USA. There are 667 results!

The two listed below I personally checked out:
American Plastic Toys, Inc.
www.americanplastictoys.com
800-521-7080
Manufactured in the U.S. since 1962. More than 100 different toys made with safe plastics; polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene, and lead-free paint.

Cardboard Design
www.cardboardesign.com
201-867-0005
Choose from full sized spaceship, teepees, playhouses and more for imaginative play. Toys, furniture, home decor made in the USA of recycled, chemical-free cardboard.

Since I live near a small town shopping district, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, I try to support our local businesses as much as possible. When I go into a store, I specifically ask to be shown product lines that are Not Made in China. I've found many nice gifts locally and feel that I've also gifted myself by creating An American Christmas "Not Made in China". My wish is that all of you enjoy the same gift!