Barbara Shaurette
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mechanicalgirl.com
Barbara Shaurette
@mechanicalgirl.com
SRE and Python developer
artist, elder goth, hobbyist mermaid, breast cancer survivor
she/her

https://linktr.ee/bshaurette

Gleefully blocking spam accounts since 2023
For some reason your photo posts always show up in my feed but personal stuff almost never does. :( I just heard about this from Andrew - I’m so glad you’re okay!
December 7, 2025 at 12:07 AM
#12: Did you know that @bandcamp.com offers gift cards? You can treat a friend and make sure artists get paid for their work at the same time!

bandcamp.com/gift_cards
Bandcamp Gift Cards
Gift cards can be used to purchase millions of digital releases and select physical items on Bandcamp.
bandcamp.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:39 PM
#11: Waterlust

Web site: waterlust.com

I use their swim leggings and dive suits almost exclusively. In fact, if you want to get *me* a gift, this is a good place to start. Their lycra is all made from post-consumer recyclables, and they donate to marine conservation causes.
Waterlust - Eco-responsible apparel advocating for marine conservation
Ocean inspired swim & activewear empowering you to learn more about marine conservation & advocate for subjects you're passionate about. 10% of profits donated.
waterlust.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:17 PM
And don't forget that you can always make donations in your giftee's names! Here are some of the non-profits I love:

Save dogs!
@15outof10.org

Save some humans!
@ndlon.bsky.social
@chirla-org.bsky.social
@trevorproject.bsky.social

Save the planet!
@surfrider.org
December 5, 2025 at 6:10 PM
A few other accounts I can recommend for alternatives, or at least for educating yourself about where your money is going:

Cut Off the Spigot
@cutoffthespigot.bsky.social

The Woke Ginger
@thewokeginger.bsky.social
December 5, 2025 at 6:09 PM
#10: Patagonia

Web site: www.patagonia.com/business-unu...
Bluesky: @patagonia.com

Their sporting gear can be pricey, yes, but their commitment to the environment is sincere and has been for many years.
Business Unusual - Patagonia
At Patagonia, we appreciate that all life on earth is under threat of extinction. We’re using the resources we have to do something about it. Learn more.
www.patagonia.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:09 PM
#9: Mountain Rose Herbs

Web site: mountainroseherbs.com

Mountain Rose is *the* place to go for organic ingredients - teas, herbs, oils. They also have an amazing blog with lots of DIY ideas and recipes for things you can make from their products.
Mountain Rose Herbs
Shop bulk herbs and spices at Mountain Rose Herbs. Our herbs are trusted for their unmatched quality and freshness and are hand-selected from the finest harvests each year.
mountainroseherbs.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:09 PM
#8: A few more ideas for L.A. locals:

The L.A. public library store: shop.lfla.org/pages/2025-h...

This gift guide from LAist that highlights small L.A. food businesses (be aware that LAist will probably ask for your email before you can access the page): laist.com/news/los-ang...
2025 Holiday Gift Guide
Shop our carefully curated collection of fun and eclectic gifts and goods, and give back to your community.
shop.lfla.org
December 5, 2025 at 6:08 PM
#7: Cantrip Candles

Web site: cantripcandles.com
Bluesky: @cantripcandles.bsky.social

Cantrip is a small L.A.-based business that makes wonderful tabletop gaming themed candles. Even if you're not into D&D, these candles are great (I especially love their Autumn Feast Bundle).
Cantrip Candles
100% Soy Wax Candles designed for use with tabletop games and fantasy adventures like Dungeons and Dragons! Immerse yourself in a wide variety of fantasy locations through the magic of scents.
cantripcandles.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:08 PM
#6: Smallflower

Web site: www.smallflower.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@merzapothec...

Import products - bath and body, home care, hygiene, health - from all over the world, and at reasonable prices. When I want to spoil myself with real German-made Nivea, this is where I go.
Smallflower - Personal Care, Fragrances, Wellness & More
Shop International Bath & Body Care, Natural Health, Organic Skin Care & Beauty, Niche Fragrance & Men's Grooming. Get Great Deals & Fast Shipping!
www.smallflower.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:07 PM
#5: Greedy Peasant

Web site: www.greedypeasant.com/collections

If you're not familiar with this Medieval fever dream, do yourself a favor and give them a follow. The Saint Snap System! Pride Eve! Catholic saints! Gift the peasants in your life some amazing artwork!
Collections | Greedy Peasant
www.greedypeasant.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:07 PM
#4: Penzeys

Web site: www.penzeys.com

Sadly also not on BlueSky, but iykyk. Their products are great - I especially love their salad dressing mixes, and this time of year their hot cocoa is the only brand I drink. They have a lot of great gift boxes. Also this:

www.penzeys.com/shop/about-r...
HomePage | Penzeys
www.penzeys.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:05 PM
#2: BoredWalk

Web site: www.boredwalk.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/boredwalk/

I'm a little sad that they're not on Bluesky, but their products are great. I have a few of their t-shirts and one of their conversation decks. Everyone on your list could use one of their Grievance Journals.
Boredwalk Gifts and Apparel for Men Women and Kids
Smart funny apparel and gifts for men women and kids
www.boredwalk.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:04 PM
#1: Optimistic Soap

Web site: www.optimisticsoap.com
Bsky: @optimisticsoap.bsky.social

Molly's soaps are absolutely amazing! And so is her heart!
Optimistic Soap: Handcrafted Body Products
Optimistic Soap is a small, Asian woman-owned business that makes and sells artisanal handcrafted soap with natural ingredients.
www.optimisticsoap.com
December 5, 2025 at 6:04 PM
Report Misconduct by Federal Agents to the California Attorney General
oag.ca.gov
December 4, 2025 at 4:51 PM