"Alternatives to Traditional Christmas Gift Giving"...

The Mission Board at Fair Haven Congregational Church (yes, we are both members!) decided to offer alternatives to the merry gift buying and outlandish joyous consumption that pervades our society.

So, we found opportunities for our members to "give gifts" that will have a more positive impact on people, economies and the environment. Plus, they will be more meaningful gifts for both sender and receiver.

For example, you may make a donation to the World Wildlife Fund to "adopt" an endangered animal in your loved one's name.

Or you can purchase a traditional craft through CERV where the $$$ goes directly to those who create the native, traditional items. Thus, improving the lives and economies of those who are not as "rich" as we are.

Better yet, how about sending some chickens, goats, pigs or other animals to the impoverished around our world through The Hieffer Project? This stabilizes and improves the local economies through these contributions.

Lastly, not only does FHCC serve Fair Trade Coffee, but we are now offering YOU the opportunity to purchase Equal Exchange coffees, teas, and chocolates that are certified organic. Farmers recieve a fair and living wage through your purchases and Equal Exchange.

So, please give gifts that keep on giving and help to improve the world around us.

Bless you all.

Please feel free to contact us for more information!!!

www.birdhouseinnvt.com

We shared an elegant Tuascan-inspired meal at Simple Elegance Catering in Rutland with Marietta and husband Jean...

...he drove here all the way from Michigan!

...the antipasto plate was devine!!! So creative and tasty...loved the radicchio with proscuitto...and the grilled apple with cheese...the fried risotto...oh, so different!!

Hearing the soothing sounds of "Woodchuck's Revenge" with Doug and Vanessa at the Paramount Theater's Back Room.

After a bad illness, Vanessa and Doug Hutchins made it to Vermont and the Birdhouse Inn to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary. Congratulations and many more!

We prepared a very nice celebratory meal for them with friends and new friend, Marietta, from Michigan!

These hard-working educators in Connecticut deserved a relaxing weekend in our lovely area...

Watch out for those speed traps in New York!

Moose, bear, venison, beaver, turkey, elk...meatballs, stews, fillets, sausages, pies...we tasted many yummy dishes at the Rupert Game Dinner.

Featured guest, Lars, celebrating his 40th birthday! Congratualtions to you, your bride and family...

...hey, isn't that Heather? ...when she's not teaching at the Mettawee School?

Who was at the Rupert Game Dinner? From Branford and Long Island? Wow!

Best wishes, "coach"!!