Holiday Shopping Online 2005

Save petrol and time. Shop online.
My best-of picks for this holly jolly holiday season

One-Stop Shop: Red Envelope
These people do a superb job of selecting fine gifts! More often then not, I can even find something special for those hard-to-buy-for types. Anything you select will be well appreciated by the lucky recipient.

Fashion Find: Speck Handbags
This girl is going places. I love the fun yet classic style of her fall/winter collection. My favorites are the practical totes with feminine ribbon closures. Plus each style is customizable with exterior pockets or vinyl liner. Unfortunately the photos do not due justice to the quality craftsmanship.

Inside: Tabula Tua
Chicago based tabletop store offers special things for our surroundings, including furniture and home accessories. I especially like the whimsical geography tumblers and can never get enough of Simon Pearce glass. Bonus - free gift wrapping!

Outside: The Waterproof Store
Mostly cases and bags, they have a convenient waterproof rating system to help you avoid disappointment. Site still appears underdevelopment but it looks promising. Now, if they would just add waterproof clothing to their mix!

Tried and True: LL Bean
Whether you are a country or city dweller, LL Bean offers a quality product at a fair price for everyone. Select from a collection of fresh Maine balsam decorations to bring the favorite smell of the season to any home. (Or boat!) I am partial to the assorted tote bags which can be monogrammed, and you also have the option of filling it with goodies, making it a great gift for an entire family. Pick a theme - picnic, beach, skiing, road trip - and fill it accordingly. Kids love the personalized backpacks, plus this way they will have something to carry their new loot in from grandmothers house.

Have-a-Heart: Heifer Project International
They help hungry people feed themselves and they can help you make a big difference.

Tasty Treats: Sorry, but you must wait for this one. My food picks - all under $20 - will appear in a future blog soon.

Looks-like-it-costs-more: Sahalie
The splash & giggle watch is just too much fun. Plus it keeps on going and going and going. After 1+ yrs of saltwater abuse and continuous use, mine still looks new. They have added new colors - and I have added them to my holiday wish list.

Happy shopping!