Since I grew up in a home where my parents owned a small local business, and now my husband owns a "small" "local" business, I try my hardest to support these people. People who started with nothing, or maybe a little something, and are working their butts off to make a nest for their little family. I know personally, Ryan started literally with nothing. At the time he borrowed a few bucks from his mom, got a business license, and off he went. Thank GOD he has the business brain of a genius. Not many people can say they have done that. I was going to school full time and had 2 jobs, so I chipped in where I could with everyday costs. Now, even though he is still considered a small business (and, pretty much local) he also does business world wide. He has friends on every continent, and people know and LIKE him. And he works hard at that. And, it is rewarding to work hard. We have had the opportunity to help out many friends and family members that have needed it. It makes you feel good to be able to give back. I always say, even if you have just a little to give, you should do it. Because one day that person who has nothing might be you.
When we go out to eat (not to often anymore, now that we have a 16 month old monster on our hands!) we try our very hardest to chose local. And despite what people say, Reno really has some GREAT local places to eat. We order our produce from a wonderful local business called Basketcase Organics. They deliver local produce to their customers on a weekly basis. And get this, it only costs me $22 a week. I can't even walk into Whole Foods for that price. And while I do buy most of Branson's clothes at Baby Gap, we also try really hard to support local company's. Rockaboo, and Scrunch Nose are 2 of our favorites. I'm trying every day to be more conscious of where and what I buy. Sundance book store? YES PLEASE! Eclipse Pizza? Supper yes! Squeeze In? Duh, we could live there. We always donate to the Local SPCA and Humane Society, and local schools as well. This last year we did the Angel Tree through a friend at Christmas time. We were able to donate Walmart gift cards of a substantial amount to 2 local girls who have nothing. I've never felt better doing anything in my life.
Of course we all have our vices. I can't help but buy my coffee at Starbucks. I just love the taste of the stuff. I've tried all the nearby local places, and I just don't like them. So, I spend a few bucks a week on my lattes and Via's. But, I almost always see this young kid (maybe 18?) sitting outside in the cold, and it's clear that he might very well be homeless. I always buy him a latte or hot chocolate, and sometimes a bite to eat. You have to give back when you can. And if I can afford an extra $5 added onto my starbucks order, I'll do it.
Bottom line, we are blessed. We live within our means, but if we have a little extra we don't mind sharing with our local friends and family, and those in need. Branson has everything, so I can't wait to teach him about giving back. Starting Local is the best way to do it.
I know I don't have a bazillion followers, but I'm going to give a list of some of our favorite local joints below. Visit them if and when you are in Reno, these places ROCK. And they have earned or are trying to earn their way in this community, and this economy.
Resaurants:
www.squeezein.com (the BEST breakfast anywhere. On the planet)
http://silverpeakbrewery.com/ (great for beer and a little bit nicer pub food)
http://sezmurestaurant.com/(a really great upscale dinner joint)
http://www.renogrill.com/ (a nice in between restraunt)
Baby stuff:
http://www.wix.com/scrunchnose/web
http://www.rockabyereno.com/
Other:
http://basketcaseorganics.com/index.html (local produce delivered to your home. A. Mazing)
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