Did you ever stop to think how “wasteful” Christmas is?  It’s probably the time of the year when we collectively increase our carbon footprint on this earth.  With all the wrappings that are used, then thrown away, and all the driving that we do from store to store, it really becomes toxic.  My family and I try our best to reduce our carbon footprint in the little things that we do on a daily basis.

One day I was reading Jenslist, my daily newsletter for everything LA, and came across a post about an opening for The UCLA Family Commons.  I love when I hear about new places and new things.  They offer mindful awareness, yoga, coaching, martial arts, and many more classes coming soon.  One thing that catched my attention immediately was the free eco-wrapping that they were doing for Christmas presents.  Of course, I had to get my gift wrapped in a eco-friendly manner.

When I went there, they had set-up shop in front of the building.  Immediately, I was welcomed by the warm staff.  I could not help but stare at the eco-friendly wrappings, all accented and finished off with beautiful fabrics donated by designer Cynthia Vincent.  The name behind the eco-friendly wrapping extraordinaire: Sonya Nimri (Artist in Residence at The UCLA Family Commons), who is a mother, professional crafter, and author of Beadalicious and Just for the Frill of It.  She was very welcoming and had such a great spirit.  She also mentioned that she was going to teach art classes there, so be sure to check that out.

Eco-Wrapped Gifts at The UCLA Family Commons

Sonya Nimri eco-wrapping my gifts

Our eco-wrapped presents looked like designer wear.  Out of all honesty, it put shame to all those presents that are wrapped at department stores.  If you want to follow a certain fad, then jump on the eco-wrapping bandwagon.  Not only will your gifts look très chic, you can reuse or recycle them after use.  So try to be conscious this Christmas and all those that follow.  Make sure to check out The UCLA Family Commons, as it’s definitely a privilege to have a whole center based on the well being of families.

Watch video here.

Holiday Online Shopping Tips  from Microsoft’s “browser moms”:

1.  Always be Prepared – Before you start shopping, make sure you’re running the latest and greatest technology.  You can keep all your software current with Automatic Updates, and click here to ensure you’re running Internet Explorer 8. 
2. Stand Up for Yourself – We want to make sure you have the best defense.  For online shopping, this means using firewall, antivirus, antispam and antispyware software.  For an added layer of antivirus protection on your PC, you can download Microsoft Security Essentials for free or find other antivirus solutions.  
3. Look Both Ways – Online, you need to be aware of phishing scams and malware.  By default, Internet Explorer 8 runs its SmartScreen Filter to block and warn you of malicious software or phishing threats.  
4. Expect the Unexpected – In addition to the usual bullies, there are new methods for criminals to get your personal information online.  Internet Explorer 8 helps protect you against these types of attacks as well. 
5. Only be Friends with Kids on the “Nice” list- Internet Explorer 8 helps you avoid deceptive Web sites that may trick you with misleading addresses.  The domain name in the address bar is highlighted in black to help identify a Web site’s true identity. 
6. Don’t Gossip, Keep Your Secrets – When you’re shopping for a surprise gift (or helping Santa with his list), it’s a good idea to use Internet Explorer 8’s InPrivate Browsing feature – it ensures your browsing information is not left on your computer – so your tech savvy child or spouse can’t dig up your past purchases.    
7. Follow the Signs – When you’re shopping online, make sure your payment websites uses encryption.  There are three indicators to look for to confirm this:  a) An “s” after http in the Web address – it should read https: b) A tiny closed padlock in the address bar, or at the lower right corner of  the window. c) If you’re running Internet Explorer 8, look for a green address bar as a sign of  trustworthy web sites.
8. Don’t Talk to Strangers – Never respond to unsolicited requests to update your account information.  These email messages could be scams used to steal your identity.  Most legitimate companies never send unsolicited email or instant message requests for your passwords or other personal information.