Spreading Cheer
and Sustainability:
A Gift-Giving Guide

As we dive into the joyful world of gift-giving, let’s remember that the holidays also give us the opportunity to make a positive impact on our beloved planet by embracing sustainable and meaningful gifts. Here are some ideas to inspire you in finding the perfect eco-friendly presents for your loved ones.

Homemade treats: Nothing warms the heart more than a batch of homemade cookies, jams, or even your own signature cocoa or spice blends. These personalized gifts not only reduce waste but also show the recipient the thought and care you put into their present.

Plants and succulents: Indoor plants and succulents are not only beautiful but also help improve air quality. They make for wonderful, long-lasting gifts that symbolize growth and nurturing relationships.

Reusable products: Encourage sustainability by gifting reusable items like stainless steel water bottles, cloth shopping bags, or eco-friendly coffee cups. These gifts promote a reduction in single-use plastics and support a greener lifestyle.

Personalized handmade crafts: If you're artistically inclined, create personalized, handmade crafts, such as knitted scarves, hand-painted pottery, or custom jewelry. Your artistic touch adds sentimental value to the gift.

Subscription services: Subscriptions to services that support sustainability, such as organic food delivery, book clubs, or streaming platforms, keep the festive spirit alive long after the holidays.

Charitable donations: Make a donation to a charitable organization in your loved one's name. This not only supports a worthy cause but also spreads the spirit of giving.

Experiences: Give the gift of experiences, such as cooking classes, concert tickets, spa visits, or a weekend getaway. Experiences create lasting memories without cluttering spaces with material possessions.

Upcycled and vintage items: Explore thrift shops and online marketplaces for unique, upcycled, or vintage treasures. Dive into the recipient’s personal history, shared stories, or cherished memories to discover items that strike an emotional cord.

Educational gifts: Encourage learning and self-improvement by gifting educational courses, books, or online workshops. Knowledge is a gift that keeps on giving.

Handwritten letters: In our digital age, a heartfelt, handwritten letter can be a most meaningful gift. Surprise and delight your loved ones with written words of thoughts, feelings, and gratitude.

Canadians Want Less Shopping,
More Exploring This Holiday

In Deloitte Canada's 2023 Holiday Retail Outlook survey, Canadians said they plan to spend 11% less in retail purchases than last year. Where’s that extra cash headed? You guessed it–travel! If you're part of this trend, we've got the perfect tips for you. Kayak has revealed some of December’s most budget-friendly destinations for Canadians–each one with plenty of holiday spirit.

New York: The Big Apple with its dazzling holiday displays is a winter wonderland. Visit iconic locations like Rockefeller Center and Macy's, where the magic of Christmas comes alive.

Los Angeles: Experience a sun-kissed Christmas in L.A. Explore enchanting neighborhoods adorned with sparkling lights, attend outdoor holiday concerts, and enjoy a warm, beachside celebration.

Las Vegas: Las Vegas goes all out for the holidays, with stunning light displays, festive casino decorations, and extravagant shows that make for a unique and memorable Christmas.

Orlando: With world-class theme parks, Orlando is the perfect destination for a family Christmas. Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort offer magical holiday celebrations.

Cancun: Swap snow for sandy beaches in Cancun. Enjoy a tropical Christmas with water sports, beachside feasts, and vibrant local celebrations under the sun.

Trade your shopping bags for travel bags this holiday season, and may your destination of choice bring you festive experiences to remember!

Festive Flapjacks: Tips for
Christmas Pancakes

Pancakes are the reigning champions of Christmas morning breakfast, but it's time to spice things up! Instead of relying on grandma's trusted recipe, give your flapjacks a holiday twist that'll turn your pancake breakfast into a holiday spectacle.

Spice it up: Add a dash of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to your flour mix for a cozy, warm flavour that'll leave you craving seconds.

Toppings extravaganza: Set up a pancake toppings bar with crushed candy canes, dried cranberries, fresh pomegranate seeds, and fun red/green sprinkles.

Whipped cream magic: Infuse your whipped cream with festive flavors like maple, cranberry, gingerbread, or mint. It's like dessert for breakfast!

Shapely pancakes: Use cookie cutters to transform your batter into star, tree, or gingerbread man pancakes and watch the kids’ eyes light up!

What People Say About Us

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Over the years, Capital Direct Lending has helped thousands of Canadians just like you to realize their dreams. But don’t take our word for it.

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December Sudoku

 


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7   6
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3 8 7
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6   9
     
3   8
     
7   4
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5 6 2
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6   4
     
    9
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