I love presents. Giving and receiving.

There’s so much excitement and thought that goes into choosing the perfect gift to make someone’s face light up. Also in knowing that someone has put the same kind of effort in for you. The only thing that makes my face light up more is knowing that my gifts are not only creating joy in the receiver, but in countless unknown faces, the lives of animals and for the beautiful earth that we live in. I’ve put together a few gifts for this 2010 season that will serve as thoughtful gifts to both the lucky present opener and to our community.

1. Kathryn Budig’s Hot Pink Half-ToeSox to benefit animals in need

Call me biased, but I feel amazing every time I put these socks on. It’s a constant and simple reminder to myself that putting on a pair of socks is just as easy as reaching out and making a difference in shelter animal’s lives. I am a huge lover of my four legged friends and collaborated with the amazingly generous company, ToeSox, to create this sock to help give back with every purchase. Perfect stocking stuffer for the yogi/athlete in your life.

If you’re not afraid of the color pink, also grab a pair of their Brindle Pink Ultra Sport ToeSox which benefits Breast Cancer Research and Awareness charities. Interested in giving back even more? Visit www.bebrightpink.org

This amazing organization will give you all the information and connections you need to help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

2. To-Go Ware

I was first introduced to the beautiful To-Go Ware founder, Stephanie Bernstein, when we both started writing for Yoga Journal. Her genius company tackles the issue of plastic waste used for to-go products all over the world. Her eco-friendly line reminds us to be conscious consumers everyday and pack your own re-usable to-go ware to make a difference! Who wants to eat out??

3. FEED Bags

You’ve probably seen these bags sold at your local Whole Foods. This organic cotton and burlap bag can be zippered up into a pouch to preserve space and unpacked to lug your groceries to and from the store without having to answer to the dreaded, “paper or plastic”?  Every FEED 100 bag sold provides 100 school meals to kids in Rwanda, donated to the United Nations World Food Programme’s School Feeding program. Now that’s something to feel good about.

4. TOMS shoes

I remember when the quirky Blake Mycoskie, Chief Shoe Giver, was just starting his company. This sweet southern boy was a man on a mission. His company has blown up into an international success with every purchase of shoes giving back to a child who has no means to own them. His shoes are simple, stylish and very comfortable. Stock up for the whole family knowing you’re getting the same order for a thrilled family somewhere in need.

5. Pangea Organics

As a woman I always lust for the perfect product that will nurture my skin, make me look radiant but not raise my eyebrow on what chemicals are sinking into my pores. Joshua Onysko‘s completely natural and eco-friendly line is a smash hit in my household and is now carried in Sephoras around the nation. Think of delicious ingredients like Italian Red Mandarin, Egyptian Fennel and Cardamon. The best part past the yummy factor? 5% of profits go to Women for Women International. Look good and feel good.