Sign on for better ways to “spend” your day after Thanksgiving

Let’s give thanks just one more day.

It’s hard to resist the lure of 60% off on anything and everything. Yet more and more of us are looking at the day after Thanksgiving as the ultimate in the rampant consumerism that’s, well, something we need to get over.

So here’s a different tradition: Green Friday!

Spend your day outside!

Follow the example of REI. The outdoor retailer is putting some skin in the game by closing its stores on the year’s craziest shopping day and encouraging customers to spend the day outside. What better place to green your Friday than on and around Monterey Bay. Take a family walk to make up for yesterday’s feast. Go for a walk on the beach. Take some time to explore the redwood forests.

Shopping?

If going holiday shopping on the Friday after Thanksgiving is your thing, spend your time and dollars with one of our many independent local businesses. You’ll be supporting our community and you’ll have a much better chance of finding unique, custom gifts. Visit the Vicality Eco Marketplace for locally owned businesses.

When you shop consider the life cycle of the item. If it can’t be used up, composted, recycled or re-purposed, don’t buy it.

Give an experience

Step away from the world of stuff and consider gifts that are enjoyable and memorable: A personal retreat at Esalen, a gardening workshop at Love Apple Farms; a day of whale watching on Monterey Bay; or a message at Well Within Spa. Check Vicality Things to Do for more great gift ideas that will never end up in a landfill.

What’s your plan for Green Friday?

Image: “walking on the beach” by Jodie Wilson Creative Commons

Eco-guide to living lighter

Green your Black Friday

Green your Black Friday

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