I approach the holidays the same way I approach the rest of my life – to make as little waste and to consume as little ‘stuff’, as possible. Luckily the people in my life understand (and appreciate this), so I realize this may be more difficult for other people with more traditional friends/family.

But, I’m pretty much all about DIY. For example, last fall my husband and I canned a bunch of stuff – jams, syrups, and sauces – and gave them away as our gifts. This year we’ve got a couple other DIY projects lined up, which I will be sharing hopefully very soon. (one of them is the homemade tea bags from earlier this year). I think homemade gifts are the best anyways, because they’re infused with your own caring and love! But if your relatives disagree, there’s some options for new items. How about a bag, wallet, hair clips, or tchotchke from an awesome business like Herbivore or Alternative Outfitters? Or, support a craftsman on Etsy (so much to choose from!). Finally, though they are not always the greenest option, I’m okay with buying books new because books are treasures and everyone should be encouraged to read more. So, why not gift your favorite book or cookbook? (or guide to green living!)

As for wrapping and decorations, I like to wrap in newspaper or brown paper bags, but some people find this unappealing. I think using fabric for wrapping is a great idea (if you don’t think the recipient will use it, you can politely ask for it back) or even make some drawstring bags to wrap with, which then become part of the gift itself. If worse comes to worst, there are ‘recycled paper’ wrapping papers widely available these days – it’s better than nothing. And for decorations, DIY that stuff!!!!

Food is a toughie, and unless you plan to subsist on the wilted veggies on the buffet platter, you’re probably best off either 1) eating before attending events, or 2) bringing your own food with you. Don’t let people bully you into compromising what’s important to you (ie, eating their food that’s unhealthy or amoral, as far as your concerned). There’s nothing wrong with politely standing by your beliefs in an unobtrusive way. They would expect nothing less from someone with allergies or religious constrictions, and they should offer the same respect to you. But I know it can be hard. Good luck!

Hope that helps!

Just a thought: Have you any tips on how to get through an ethical Christmas? The norm here is: Present buying for a demanding family of all ages and mentalities/beliefs, lots of non-vegan unhealthy food, and decorations which may not necessarily be earth-friendly. How do you get through it all?

Well honestly, it would be hard for me to guess without knowing a bit more about how you eat. But my first thoughts were –
* Not enough protein, like are you relying heavily on cheese and other dairy for protein? This i snot a good idea and is a mistake that many ovo-lacto vegetarians make. Make sure you’re getting plenty of protein from plant sources, like legumes (beans, lentils, etc) and from whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, etc).
* Too many simple carbs, like white bread and pasta and baked goods, give you quick energy and then a HARD crash, which can leave you totally drained. Instead choose complex carbs like whole wheat or whole grain options. Or, choose a healthier sub like fruits, nuts/seeds, or veggies + hummus.
* Vitamin deficiency. Definitely make sure you’re taking a (quality) multivitamin and eating lots and lots of dark leafy greens.
* It very well may have nothing to do with diet – what other factors have changed in your life?

Other than that, I can’t comment much without knowing more. Sorry! And good luck!

I have one question too:
I have been a vegetarian for well over a year and about half of this wonderful time have been really tired. Some days I just do not get anything done, even if my brain is awake. I do not know if it’s from some mistake in my diet (which in my opinion isn’t really that bad) or it could be something completely non-related. Went to the doctor and my blood test results were all normal. I know that this is not much information but do you have any ideas?