alternative gifts

Why I’m not a fan of gift cards

December 25, 2020January 26, 2021Unknown

OK. It’s too late to reverse the flood of gift cards given in lieu of more sensible gifts for this Christmas. On Wednesday, December 23 Suzanne Kapner, writing for The Wall Street Journal, reported on the huge increase in gift card purchases this season. “Gift-card purchases in the first week of December were twice the…

Skip the Valentine’s Day Roses if you care about the Environment

February 13, 2019March 9, 2019Financial Planning For Women

Quoted from NY Times Climate Forward By Jillian Mock “Another Valentine’s Day is here, and we all know what that means: paper Cupids, heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and the classic bouquet of red roses. Lots and lots of roses. This year, Americans are expected to spend $1.9 billion on flowers alone, according to the National…

Skip the Valentine’s Day Roses if you care about the Environment

February 13, 2019March 9, 2019Financial Planning For Women

What mom REALLY needs for Mother’s Day

April 20, 2017March 30, 2018Financial Planning For Women

My New York City sister sent me an email about a Mother’s Day Brunch for “only” $105 per adult and $45 per child! Obviously that’s what the 1% (or 10%) does to celebrate Mother’s Day. What mom really needs is not an expensive restaurant meal, flowers, or another kitchen gadget. What most mothers need, especially…

Where unwanted gifts end up

January 16, 2017March 30, 2018Financial Planning For Women

Long an advocate of less consumption and more investment, with advice like contributing to charity or 529 college savings funds instead of gift cards or buying gifts that are often unwanted, I was intrigued with the growth in on-line “consignment shops.” According to Patrick McGroarty, writing for The Wall Street Journal, “unwanted holiday gifts and…

Four Financial Gifts to Consider for the Holidays

December 16, 2016March 30, 2018Financial Planning For Women

Presents that encourage savings and reduce debt can be a lot more meaningful than another gadget, according to Veronica Dagher, writing for The Wall Street Journal (12/13/16). “Forget about buying your loved ones sweaters or gadgets this holiday season. Instead, consider giving a financial gift, not cash or a check stuffed in an envelope. Think…

The More of Less: Finding the life you want under everything you own

December 13, 2016March 30, 2018Financial Planning For Women

During this highly acquisitive time as too many people frantically shop for the holidays, buying gifts that are not really wanted or needed… Joshua Becker’s book The More of Less extolls the value of paring down one’s possessions to simplify life and reduce debt. As quoted from the book’s website http://www.themoreofless.com/: “Most of us know…

Alternative Gift Mart in Cache Valley Nov. 12

November 10, 2016March 30, 2018Financial Planning For Women

If you are tired of the holiday gift giving frenzy, it’s time to visit the Alternative Gift Market Give, in honor of a friend or relative, an alternative gift of food, medicine, livestock or education. These gifts will be sent to areas with great needs around the world and here at home. When you purchase…