Now that Thanksgiving has passed, Christmas shopping season is in full swing. Do you have any health conscious friends or loved ones still left to shop for? This gift guide is full of great gift ideas to inspire healthy lifestyle choices.

Part 1: The Farmers Market Foodie. These gifts are perfect for anyone that frequents farmers markets, appreciates fresh produce, or is passionate about local, sustainable food.

1. Squash Identification Dishtowel, $16. This adorable dish towel perfectly captures the spirit of fresh produce. Is anyone else reminded of page 77 of Julia Rothman’s Farm Anatomy?
2. American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America, $30. The White House organic garden has quickly become a national symbol for the local food revolution. This book is the perfect gift to give your favorite locavore. And as a bonus, it also recently received praise from Marion Nestle. A win in my book!
3. CSA Box, price varies, usually $325-$600 per growing season. CSA stands for community supported agriculture. By purchasing a CSA subscription, you are essentially purchasing a share of the farm. In return, you receive boxes with a variety of local produce on a weekly, bimonthly, monthly basis, depending on the farm. Shares often come in various sizes, and half shares are sometimes available for smaller households. I would google your city + CSA (example: Boston CSA) to find CSA options in your area. Click here for CSA options in the Boston area.
4. edible: A Celebration of Local Foods, $30. From the makers of edible communities magazines, this is more than just a cookbook. This book highlights recipes from different culinary regions across America, as well as recognizes local food heroes. Additionally, a copy of your local edible would be the perfect addition to any local food gift basket. Edibles are produced for 70 cities across the US and Canada. To see if your community has an edible magazine, click here.
5. Home Grown Garden Card Set (set of 8), $18. These cards perfectly capture the spirit of home gardening. They come blank, and would be the perfect vehicle to share your thanks with your local food producer.
6. State by State Food Tote Bag, $25. This adorable tote bag is perfect for carrying home all of your locally grown goodies. The geographic touches make this pick one of my favorites!
7. Artichoke iPhone Case, $35. This unique case will keep the spirit of your favorite market alive, even after the last harvest. Available for iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4, 4S, and 5.
8. Farmers Market 8×10 Print, $18. This cheery print is perfect for any farmers market aficionado.
9. Farmer’s Market Cards (set of 6), $14. These beautiful watercolor cards are printed on textured linen coverstock, and the inside is blank for your own thoughts. What a lovely way to share the beauty of farmers markets!

Check back soon for part 2 of my Healthy Gift Guide. The next one is going to have a nutrition focus. Still looking for more gift ideas? Check out this awesome gift guide for Boston Foodies! These picks would be perfect for any of my classmates in the BU Gastronomy program. Happy shopping!

-Kelly