I just wanted to take a minute on this holiday that so many of you are out celebrating to say again how much of an honor hosting the Give it Forward giveaway was.

It exceeded our wildest expectations because of your kindness and generosity, whether as an artist contributing a gift or an entrant nominating a friend. Thank you. It really did refresh the holiday season for me, and I still get a warm fuzzy feeling all the way down to my toes when I think about it!

Through one simple giveaway over eleven days, we were able to bring together over 100 people--33 artists, 35 winning entrants and the 35 friends and loved ones they nominated to win. Packages have been sent out to at least 19 different states, and I know a few are waiting to be opened under a tree somewhere right now.

We read so many beautiful and touching stories over the past weeks, and it's been great to be able to send a little something special to people who've had a rough year. Our winners were people who were laid off, are having a hard time finding work or who have recently lost a loved one. Cancer survivors and people about to start their chemotherapy. People who lost everything this year, and people who have gained a new home, or a new baby. And people who have just been there for you when you needed them most. We here at cosa verde are really touched to have been able to be a small part of their lives this holiday.

Thank you!

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So now, we're off to celebrate our own little holiday. cosa verde will update as usual, but I won't be back on the blog until the new year. Happy, happy holidays everyone!

You guys are making this an amazing holiday season for us here at cosa verde. Every day, I am amazed by the generosity and sentiments posted in the comments on the Give it Forward gifts... you made this into a really great giveaway. It breaks my heart that we can't make everyone a winner!

I really appreciate the thought and care that have gone into many of your comments as you tell us about a friend or loved one who you'd like a gift to go to. And I know our artists appreciate it to. And if you're reading this and in the mood to feel all warm and fuzzy about your fellow human beings, I recommend reading through the comments on some of these posts.

I'm especially touched by those of you who have rallied your comments for another entrant to win. Or last night, when I had an early winner write to me to ask that her prize be sent to another poster who she considered more deserving. You guys are awesome. Thanks for bringing that holiday spirit home to cosa verde!

A big thanks to all of our participating artists, and to everyone who entered!

(Image: upcycled needle-felted ornaments from Sewn Natural)

Win this awesome upcycled magnetic locket set from olive bites for a deserving best bud. Learn more about Give it Forward 2009.

This adorable, industrial little locket is created from a recycled steel auto part. The locket has 3 magnetic interchangeable lids - two with beautiful designs from Italian artist Dilkabear and one with the definition of the word Whisper. Locket is 1.25" with an adjustable 30" chain.

Retail value: $20

Comment on this post for your chance to give this item to the recipient of you choice. We've got 33 gifts to give away, so be sure to check back here every day for new opportunities to win!

Here are the rules:
To be eligible to win, you must include the first name of the person you'd like to give the gift to, your relationship to them, and why you think they deserve a special surprise. (You don't need to write a lot, but please tell us more than "I want to win this sweater for Kimmy because she likes sweaters.") We will randomly select winners from all eligible entries received by midnight (EST) on December 18, 2009. Winners will be notified by email and must be able to provide the recipient's shipping address. Sorry, but we can only ship to US addresses.

Win this fair trade cotton tote from girlscantell for a brainy friend. Learn more about Give it Forward 2009.

Hand-printed with a clever diagram of an anatomical brain, this bag is sure to win you compliments, friends and possibly several awards. This is the best bag ever. it's perfect for running errands or toting your groceries around (and looking smart, avoiding nasty plastic bags). It's made from fair trade organic cotton, and measures a nice 16"w x 15.5"h, with 22" cotton handles and a 5" gusseted base.

Retail value: $20

Comment on this post for your chance to give this item to the recipient of you choice. We've got 33 gifts to give away, so be sure to check back here every day for new opportunities to win!

Here are the rules:
To be eligible to win, you must include the first name of the person you'd like to give the gift to, your relationship to them, and why you think they deserve a special surprise. (You don't need to write a lot, but please tell us more than "I want to win this sweater for Kimmy because she likes sweaters.") We will randomly select winners from all eligible entries received by midnight (EST) on December 18, 2009. Winners will be notified by email and must be able to provide the recipient's shipping address. Sorry, but we can only ship to US addresses.

Win these upcycled earrings from transient treasures for a lady you love. Learn more about Give it Forward 2009.

These pierced earrings are re-purposed from vintage necklaces.  Faceted red glass beads, faux pearls and rhinestone rondelles dangle from surgical steel french wires.

Retail value: $25

Comment on this post for your chance to give this item to the recipient of you choice. We've got 33 gifts to give away, so be sure to check back here every day for new opportunities to win!

Here are the rules:
To be eligible to win, you must include the first name of the person you'd like to give the gift to, your relationship to them, and why you think they deserve a special surprise. (You don't need to write a lot, but please tell us more than "I want to win this sweater for Kimmy because she likes sweaters.") We will randomly select winners from all eligible entries received by midnight (EST) on December 18, 2009. Winners will be notified by email and must be able to provide the recipient's shipping address. Sorry, but we can only ship to US addresses.

Win this upcycled necktie wallet from prix-prix for a deserving friend. Learn more about Give it Forward 2009.

This Necktie Wallet was made from a reconstructed vintage tie and suit, giving new life to classic menswear. It has a large pocket for cash and 2 smaller pockets for cards.

Retail value: $28

Comment on this post for your chance to give this item to the recipient of you choice. We've got 33 gifts to give away, so be sure to check back here every day for new opportunities to win!

Here are the rules:
To be eligible to win, you must include the first name of the person you'd like to give the gift to, your relationship to them, and why you think they deserve a special surprise. (You don't need to write a lot, but please tell us more than "I want to win this sweater for Kimmy because she likes sweaters.") We will randomly select winners from all eligible entries received by midnight (EST) on December 17, 2009. Winners will be notified by email and must be able to provide the recipient's shipping address. Sorry, but we can only ship to US addresses.

Win this awesome upcycled "Scraptastic" tie from Medium Reality for an awesome guy in your life. Learn more about Give it Forward 2009.

These neckties are reclaimed from torn, damaged, and boring neckties of yore. Too wide, too weird, too wishy-washy... We take 'em all. The ties are selected for the feeling and colors of the fabrics, and matched up with scraps from our studio as well as scraps we've stolen from other dens of stitchery around town. The ties are each carefully opened up, taken apart, narrowed, straightened (or crookeded), appliqued and embroidered within an inch of their lives, and hand-seamed back together with loving care.

Retail value: $95

Comment on this post for your chance to give this item to the recipient of you choice. We've got 33 gifts to give away, so be sure to check back here every day for new opportunities to win!

Here are the rules:
To be eligible to win, you must include the first name of the person you'd like to give the gift to, your relationship to them, and why you think they deserve a special surprise. (You don't need to write a lot, but please tell us more than "I want to win this sweater for Kimmy because she likes sweaters.") We will randomly select winners from all eligible entries received by midnight (EST) on December 17, 2009. Winners will be notified by email and must be able to provide the recipient's shipping address. Sorry, but we can only ship to US addresses.

Win this beautiful hand-painted organic onesie from Henna Baby for a loved one with a little one. Learn more about Give it Forward 2009.

Henna is the ancient ceremonial art form of body painting dating back at least 5,000 years with its origins in the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East and North Africa. Henna is traditionally applied to the hands and feet of women preparing for special ceremonies and is considered good luck in many cultures. This ritual art form is the inspiration behind the Henna Baby collection. Each unique piece is hand painted with great love and with the hope of bringing the best of luck to the newest of souls.

Retail value: $35

Comment on this post for your chance to give this item to the recipient of you choice. We've got 33 gifts to give away, so be sure to check back here every day for new opportunities to win!

Here are the rules:
To be eligible to win, you must include the first name of the person you'd like to give the gift to, your relationship to them, and why you think they deserve a special surprise. (You don't need to write a lot, but please tell us more than "I want to win this sweater for Kimmy because she likes sweaters.") We will randomly select winners from all eligible entries received by midnight (EST) on December 17, 2009. Winners will be notified by email and must be able to provide the recipient's shipping address. Sorry, but we can only ship to US addresses.