PIPPI OF TODAY

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the beloved character Pippi Longstocking from the books by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. Together with Save the children, the Astrid Lindgren Company has initiated the Pippi of today campaign to earmark funds to support refugee girls.  

Millions of families are forced to leave their homes around the globe, and girls are especially vulnerable when on the move. Much like Pippi, they have to navigate new neighbourhoods and rely on their own strength to create a home, a family, and a future for themselves. 

Support the campaign with a christmas gift from the merchandise range available online at Astrid Lindgren butiken, or with a Pippi donation.

Elinzfotografi is the creator behind the wonderful print above called "Girl Power", available in three sizes from the webshop. Parts of the proceeds support the campaign. 

IMAGE: ELINZFOTOGRAFI, USED WITH PERMISSION 

KNOT AN AVERAGE GIFT

HRH Queen Silvia of Sweden founded the World Childhood Foundation 1999 and in celebration of their 15 years they are releasing a more exclusive version of their colourful childhood bracelet. Available in 20 colour combinations and a larger leather version for men. The perfect gift in many ways. 

IMAGE: PRESS IMAGE  WORLD CHILDHOOD FOUNDATION

PUT IT OUT IN STYLE

The last couple of years fire extinguishers have been made to fit the Scandinavian white homes, and I for one applaud the effort. The likelihood that this one will be stuffed in a closet is smaller than that for its bright red siblings. 

A great hostessgift on New Year's Eve, or to new homeowners or your childrens' families. If they already own one, place the old one in the garage. Available at Ica Maxi Hem & Fritid (199 SEK).  

IMAGE: ICA MAXI WEBSHOP

BE A LIGHT UNTO THE WORLD

Scented candles are tricky. Too strong, too sweet, too artificial, too bland, etc. Then there comes along the perfect candle that gently stirs the air in the room without overwhelming it. As yo uwalk towards the cashier you turn it around to look at the price tag. What!!?? Sixty dollars! For wax in a tin jar!? 

That's why I'm excited about this candle (though I am yet to smell it). Made only from sustainable plant sources, sourced from a company listed as an ethic employer, and recommended by Swedish Society for Nature Conservation. Sold by Unicef Sweden for about 20 USD, meaning all profits benefit an important cause.

The perfect hostess gift. 

Or get a bunch and treat loyal customers/clients/employees this winter. 

IMAGE: UNICEF SWEDEN WEBSHOP

VOTES FOR WOMEN

Anna Rogstad was the first female member of the Norwegian parliament Stortinget, in 1911. A remarkable feat since votes for women were introduced 1913, two years later, in Norway. The right to vote was extended to women in Finland 1906, Denmark 1916 and Sweden 1921. Contrast that to Samoa in 1990, Lichtenstein 1994, Qatar 2000, Unites Arab Emirates 2006, and what's worse: some nations are not even on the list.

Don't ignore the importance of your vote, wherever you live in the world, and recognize that a price was paid for it by someone else. As the world awaits the US election, let's remember those that made possible a female voice in the ballots. If you don't know their names, spend some quality time with Google.
IMAGE: NATIONAL LIBRARY OF NORWAY

WHITE AND BRIGHT

Speaking of glögg... Every year polls show that a great number of children in Scandinavia, and I bet it's the same all over the world, dread the holiday season. Since party season commences in November, consider this an early reminder. If your festivities include children, please adjust drinking plans accordingly.
IMAGE: PRESS IMAGE VIT JUL, PHOTOGRAPHER PERNILLA FÖRNES

WHITE AND BRIGHT

I'm grateful that although never lavish, my christmases have always felt safe and not once have I had to dread that moment when my parents' or relatives' drinking turns ugly, or wonder why grandpa is too loud, why auntie can't stop giggling, and mom's hugs feel strangely detached.

The campaign VIT JUL (A White Christmas) asks adults to take a stand. They ask that adults, parents or not, support the campaign by refraining from drinking alcohol with more than 2,25 volumepercent during the three days of Christmas.

Pledge to support the campaign by signing your name here: Vit Jul. I did.
IMAGE: PRESS IMAGE VIT JUL, PHOTOGRAPHER PERNILLA FÖRNES