Gift Ideas: December 2008 Archives

Tree up and house decorated, check. Christmas cards out, check. Presents bought and wrapped, check. OK - let's be honest, I have a wreath that won't stay up, a few cards lingering that I need addresses for, and a few last minute gifts to get and wrap. Oh yeah, and a bowl of cookie dough in the fridge - can't check "make cookies for Santa" off the list yet.

The girls and I made our favorite cut out cookie dough last night from the Beverly's Best cookbook (the restaurant is located on Phila Street and is one of the best brunch places in town - looove their blueberry pancakes). The dough has to go in the refrigerator for at least an hour before it can be rolled and cut. It got too late last night (still on the to do list - ahhh) to finish, so must check that off this morning. This allowed me some time to browse Etsy on line while the girls slept. I found these locally handmade holiday gift ideas. They are whimsical, unique and they are made by local artist. My gift to you last minute gift seekers that want something a little different.

Ho Ho Ho.....

{Beverly's Best Cook Book at Beverly's 47 Phila Street, Tree Key chain at Etsy by Miesmama, Santa and Mrs. Clause pony tail holders at Etsy by Three Dancing Magpies, and Santa Clause mini gourd ornaments at Etsy by PulpArt}

It's been a hard year to get into the spirit of gift giving with all the bad news out there. Nothing will put you back in the mood like shopping our great downtown. We are all so proud of our downtown and we should be! We have great shops with quality merchandise and shop owners who are committed to our community. This is a perfect time of year to support them and buy that special gift you've been looking for, say Happy Holidays and let them know we believe in them. They are our DOWNTOWN. Without them Saratoga would not be the town it is. Get an eggnog latte, enjoy the decorations, and go shopping...downtown!

Tie by Vineyard Vines (love their whimsical prints done so right) at Pink Paddock, headbands by Lacoste (perfect for that 'tween girl in your life) at Speck Boutique, tree ornaments by Lilly Pulitzer (perfect for the country club set) at Pink Paddock, gloves at Lucia Boutique (a little edgy yet practical), slippers (on my wish list) at Life is Good, Christmas tree boxers (perfect stocking stuffer for him) at Banana Republic, peace sign necklace (celebrate the 50th anniversary of the symbol) at Silverado, Ruckus game (my whole family loves this game!) at G. Willikers, and thank you notes (because it's the right thing to do) at PaperDolls of Saratoga.

Woke up to gorgeous white covered trees. It all looks so pretty while I'm enjoying my steaming mug of strong coffee and the kids are still nestled all snug in their beds with visions of sugar-plums dancing in their heads. Then reality hits. A snow day?? A 2 hour delay?? Do they know what time of year it is?? Best to embrace it. Time to get the snow gear out and let the girls get creative in the snow. It's also time to dig out.

'Tis the season for gift giving and I thought this scraper from Eddie Bauer would be a perfect gift for our friends who live in beautifully restored homes and carriage houses in town. The only thing missing? A garage. Their love for living in town means they are willing to put up with all the elements. Shouldn't they be rewarded? This ice scraper allows them to dig out the car while keeping their hands nice and toasty warm in a down mitt. I saw them at Eddie Bauer on Broadway. Hurry! With all the snow and ice we've been having I'm sure they're going fast....

My friend Nancy asked me to go shopping to help her find a dress for an upcoming Holiday Party. The setting is the Albany Symphony followed by cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. How classy and elegant is that?

This dress found at Violet's of Saratoga 482 Broadway by Muse, $195, made me very happy. How great are the satin roses at the bottom (shows off those great legs!)? A classic silhouette with a fun twist. I can almost hear Handel's Messiah and taste the Moet!

I thought these Kate Spade shoes would be perfect with the dress.

Add some color with this clutch from Ann Taylor Loft on Broadway.

Loving this classy bracelet from J.Crew.

Just discovered this jewelry made by a local designer Louise M. Jewelry. Original and custom jewelry. The prettiest and unique designs plus she's sweet and easy to work with! You can find her on line or at Violet's 482 Broadway, Mimosa 70c Beekman Street or Lily of Saratoga bridal boutique, 6 Franklin Square.