During this time of year, getting a hot chocolate for the children while getting a coffee to-go for the adults seems to be a regular occurrence in our household. It recently occurred to me that, while my husband and I have stainless steel travel mugs for coffee or tea on-the-go, the children don’t and we end up throwing away more paper cups then I’d like to admit to. That gave me the idea to get little travel mugs for them when we make a special trip to get a hot cocoa. This could be a fun stocking stuffer too – not only do they get to be “just like Mom or Dad” with their own mug, but they’re also learning valuable lessons in wasting less and being environmentally-savvy!

Speaking of stocking stuffers, I am also trying to be more eco-friendly in my stocking stuffing this year by choosing gifts and trinkets that I know will be used and cherished. It’s tempting to just load up on dollar store finds that look cute for five minutes but will inevitably end up in landfill shortly after Christmas. Therefore, I am veering towards stocking stuffers such as art and craft supplies, little books, and stickers that I know will be used, not break easily, and bring enjoyment for some time to come.