Anna Getty’s Checking It Twice
Anna and India end the Christmas tree debate. Photo: Ron Hamad for Chronicle Books. Part Four of Four.
In the last few weeks, I’ve talked with I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas author Anna Getty about her signature strudel recipe, favorite quick-and-easy holiday cocktail and an upcycled sweater wreath craft. Now we get to the good stuff: Sustainable gifts!
Rachel Lincoln Sarnoff: Okay, end the Christmas tree debate for us. Cut or potted?
Anna Getty: It depends on where you are in the country. In Oregon, you can rent a potted Christmas tree that they drop off at your house at the beginning of the season and pick up at the end.
RLS: That’s good to know, because the potted one I got last year is totally dead. I could not keep it alive!
AG: That’s the thing. Living in California, my ideal would be an organic cut tree that you compost right back into your ground. They grow these trees for a reason—it’s not like if you don’t cut them they’re going to keep growing. Pine trees are poisonous—nothing grows next to them. If you live on the East Coast you can plant a potted tree in your yard. But you really have to think geographically. An organic cut tree is ideal for me. Whatever you do, make sure you properly dispose of it. Most tree-sellers will take the trees back and mulch them. Don’t put your tree in a plastic bag and out on the curb—it just ends up in the landfill.
RLS: Now for the fun stuff. What gifts are you giving this season?
AG: For my husband, Greg, a bunch of Timberland Earth Keepers stuff. I just bought the most beautiful organic cotton sweater from them. The shoes recycle a bottle and a half of plastic! I think they’re doing great stuff. I also love the Citizen Eco Drive Military watch for the men in my life, natural candles by True Grace, and, of course, my Green Christmas book.
Timberland’s hawt upcycled boots. Photo: Timberland.
RLS: What’s on your wish list?
AG: A new pair of rock ‘n roll heels by Olsen Haus. A recycled gold big-link necklace by Melissa Joy Manning—it’s a classic and goes with anything. Oh, and Livia Firth’s reclaimed handbags—you can get them at EcoAge.
Anna’s dreaming of this necklace. Hint, hint, Greg. Photo: Melissa Joy Manning.
