On the fourth day of Christmas_shop locally.

So technically yesterday was the fourth day of Christmas, and we went shopping!

I have done some online shopping (LEGO.com) yesterday we went to a few local shops to pick up some great gifts.

We first went to The Urban Gypsy a shop here in New Westminster that carries all sorts of jewelry, art and beautiful furniture. The owner, Jason, travels the world and buys carvings, statues, and hand carved furniture  and ships them back to Canada. I bought some beautiful scarves for my mom and sister and a gorgeous carving for my brother and sister in-law.

Recently I discovered an amazing Folk Art shop in gas town, in Vancouver called La Sirena. All the items are made in Mexico, they support small scale artist and bring beautiful art, clothing, jewelry and more to Vancouver!

I love this bag and put it on my wish list, it is perfect for taking to the market, library or beach.

We also love to shop at Ten Thousand Villages  They have a number of stores around the lower mainland and exclusively carry fairly traded goods, including coffee, chocolate, toys, stationary, items for the home and garden. It is incredible the variety and quality at this store. You are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list here.

One more great place to shop locally is Great Wall Tea, a shop in the River Market at the Quay in New Westminster, they carry over 150 types of tea and you can sample any type you like. I personally love the Cream Earl Grey and Orange Mate, my kids love the Chocolate Mint, and with flavours specially mixed for the holidays you are sure to find something you will love and will love to give. You can also just stop by on your busy shopping day and take a few minutes to try some tea for yourself.