In these crazy days upon us here in the States, it wouldn't hurt to help the little guy....you know who I mean your neighbors, your friends, your kids friends parents...you know.... the people you see everyday, the people in your community ~ Here is a way to help this holiday season ~ to help all of us ~ And if you're from another country...it is meant for you too...Please support your local businesses & artists..
Where ever you may be this Holiday Season~
Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is! It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?
Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement. Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates. Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamins on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course. There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about Supporting Your Home Town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running. OK, you were looking for something more personal.
Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes. Get out to the Local Craft Events! Plan your holiday outings at Local, Owner Operated Restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your Hometown Theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.
THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.
Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?
Click here: Made in the USA Products Directory
http://www.americansworking.com/
9 comments:
Well said, Melinda! Thanks for the great ideas. And maybe the giver can put a note in with their gift to affirm their desire to support our jobs here.
Etsy is a good place to buy also, as long as it is made here in the U.S.A.
I'm hoping this idea spreads across the states like a ripple in a pond that starts small, and eventually reaches all the way to the edge.
Have a wonderful day!
This is wonderful - thanks so much for sharing this! I like what Alice said above about putting a note to the recipient.
I've become much more conscious these past few years while shopping to buy in the USA when possible and to buy handmade as well.
bravo Melinda !! Could not have said it better!!!
So many good ideas right under our noses! Thanks for the reminder
Fantastic post, Melinda! <3 SO very well said!
Bless your heart!!
love ya sweetie
~Sharon~
Fantastic post! Will share with others.
Shared on FB and Twitter, really a great read! Thanks!
Very well done with the post. Thank you so much for sharing this post with your readers.
Babysitter in Accord
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