Day Eight of Green Gifts and Tips: OLovesM and reclaiming packing boxes

I just realized that OLovesM hasn't been getting any love in our 12 Days series! Oops! OLovesM bags are stylish and functional handbags made from reclaimed yoga mat scraps and Chaco sandal straps. Each one is made by hand in Aspen Colorado by fairly paid workers.

The water bottle holder above is a great way to keep your water handy and stay hydrated day hikes or at the farmers market. A mesh pocket holds your keys, cash or business cards. $15.95 in a variety of colors.

Tip of the day: Many people are shopping online these days, which means many people end up with stacks of cardboard boxes at the end of the holiday season. Recycling them is great, but why not keep the boxes in use a little longer? Try these ideas:
*store for the next time you need to ship a package
*allow a child to turn one (or several) into a doll house, rocket ship, or castle
*donate to a local animal shelter if they can use the cardboard for bedding or critter houses.
*cut off or tuck in the tops and use boxes to organize your basement/garage/medicine cabinet
*add in small pieces to your compost box, or add to vermicompost