I Spy Christmas, A Book of Picture Riddles

I Spy Christmas: A Book of Picture Riddles

We took several of these books on a long road trip when the kids were younger. It says the book are for ages 4 to 8 but my older kids liked them (ages 12, 10, and 9 at the time) and so did I. The I Spy books are beautiful, very well done and can hold your attention enough to pass the time on a car trip. It is a challenge to find all the objects hidden in the imaginative photos. I would not hesitate to give the I Spy books as gifts.

See more fun games for travel here.

Merry Christmas!

December Visiting Teaching Message

Oh wow - these gifts are spectacular! Each month SO much thought and time goes into preparing and making each one just perfect. This month was no exception!

The message is entitled, "Nurture Through Compassionate Service." One of the passages that stood out to us was that of Sister Barbara Thompson. She talks about doing our part to help build the kingdom of God... and the fact that we will have help in doing this. She then quotes Joseph Smith: "If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates." What a great promise!! Wow.

We decided to highlight that and had a magnet designed just for this particular gift. It has the quote from Joseph Smith on it, as well as a picture of an angel. And here is the exciting part...

The angel pictured on the magnet was the first angel to decorate an LDS temple in our dispensation. It stood on top of the original Nauvoo temple. It is very vintage looking - and instead of being vertical (like most others) the angel is horizontal. In one of the angel's hand is an open book (presumably the Book of Mormon) and in the other hand he holds a trumpet - announcing to the world the gospel. See Revelations 14:6-7.

I just loved how the magnet turned out - (thanks Candis!). The idea of us being Angels this Christmas season - and also having Angels to help us give service to others - is awesome- and so fitting for December.

Hope you enjoy giving this month's Visiting Teaching Gift!

We have ordered extra magnets if you want to order for a RS conference or lesson handout. Prices are as follows:

VT Gift - $3.25

Angel Magnet - pack of 20 - $15.00

To purchase the December VT online, click here.

Two's Co. donates $20k to children's hospital

from a press release

Elmsford, NY- November 30, 2009- Two's Company, a successful, highly respected leader in the gift and home accessory industry is pleased to announce a donation of over $20,000 to the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital at Westchester Medical Center. This donation is a result of proceeds from our successful charity warehouse sale last month. Tom Gottlieb, President of Two's Company remarked, "We are thrilled to be able to make this donation and that it will be used to support the children of our community. It is our distinct honor to help the hospital take another step toward achieving their mission."

We are pleased to announce that Two's Company will be opening their warehouse one last time for 2009. This weekend we will open our doors located at 275 Clearbrook Road in Elmsford, for Holiday shopping to benefit the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. Friday, December 4th (10-6), Saturday, December 5th (10-4) and Sunday, December 6th (10-4), Two's Company will have selected merchandise available for up to 90% off of their retail prices with 50% of proceeds benefitting the Crohn's and Colitis Foundations effort to fund research, raise awareness and save lives.

As in 1969, Two's Company remains a Westchester County family business dedicated not only to innovation and creativity in the wholesale gift and home decor industry but also in our community. For more information, visit us at www.twoscompany.com

Unique Christmas Cupcake T-Shirts

Looking for a wonderful Christmas shirt? How about this one by Zazzle artist The Candy Store featuring two yummy Christmas cupcakes?

This shirt is a ladies long sleeved t-shirt made to flatter women with a nicely contoured fit. It is pre-shrunk 5 ounce 100 percent combed ring-spun cotton.

If a t-shirt is more her style, this one is also available in a smart ringer style (shown below) as well as a host of other styles for women and children. It would make a really unique Christmas gift for the baker on your list or even for the person who simply LOVES cupcakes.

Merry Christmas!

Quick Link:

Christmas Cupcake Shirts from The Candy Store.

Biltmore license: tapestry

This wallhanging from Manual Woodworkers & Weavers depicts clearing morning mist over thick vines draped along a pergola found in Biltmore's gardens. It measures 70 inches tall and 50 inces wide.
See more Biltmore-licensed items on Gift & Home Today. See posts from Nov. 26 to 29.

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Retailers: Contact the manufacturer for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Looking For Some Fun Twitter T-Shirts?

Looking for a fun gift for a young person in your life? How about one of these great Twitter t-shirts available through the fine craftspeople at Zazzle?

All of these t-shirts are available in a wide variety of sizes, colors and styles and all of them celebrate one of the online social medias so important to the young people in your life -- Twitter. If you're looking for an unusual gift, why not consider a Twitter t-shirt?

If you don't see one that is exactly right for your Twitter fan here, check out the complete and extensive line of shirts and other merchandise available at Zazzle.

Quick Link:

See Zazzle's complete line of Twitter t-shirts by clicking on any of the shirts shown on this page and then simply searching for 'Twitter.'

KitchenAid's 7 Speed Hand Mixer

Have you seen the KitchenAid 7 Speed Hand Mixer? It is a more affordable mixer than KitchenAid's stand mixer but still a reliable work horse for the kitchen. This mixer features KitchenAid's quality plus it is quiet, easy to use and cute! Available in a choice of colors so that it can be color coordinated to your baker's kitchen.

Perfect for someone who wants a quality machine but who does not have room or need for KitchenAid's stand mixer.

Quick Links:

Order your KitchenAid Hand Mixer from Amazon.
Order your KitchenAid stand mixer from Amazon.
Read more about the hand mixer.
Read more about the stand mixer.

Before Green Gables, The Prequel to Anne of Green Gables

Before Green Gables is the absolutely wonderful story of Anne's life before she arrived at Green Gables. Nova Scotian Budge Wilson did an amazing job of writing this book and making it seem as though L.M. Montgomery herself wrote it.

Any true Anne of Green Gables fan has to have this book on her bookshelf! It would make an excellent Christmas gift for any Anne fan and for any young lady whom you would like to introduce Anne of Green Gables to.



Quick Links:

Order Before Green Gables from Amazon
Read more about Before Green Gables

Backyardigans Plush Beanie Babies Set

How about a fantastic and fun Backyardigans plush beanie baby set for the little ones on your list? The Ty Backyardigans set of five Beanie Babies includes Tyrone, Uniqua, Pablo, Austin and Tasha and is recommended for children 3-years old and up.



The reviews on Amazon are five-star with one Grandma saying:

"A lot of fun at a great price!
My 4-year old grandson and
granddaughter love the Backyardigans.
(So do I !) They play with the plushes
and make up their own adventures.
I love to see them use their imaginations.
I am always Pablo!" ~ Einar

If you have a child who loves the Backyardigans, this set represents solid value with five Beanie Babies priced at $39.95 on Amazon. However, they are of course also available individually. A perfect Christmas gift choice from loving Grandparents.

Quick Links:

Backyardigans Beanie Babies on Amazon

Scooby Doo Figures

When Scooby Doo and his friends arrive at your house hidden in a Christmas stocking, they are sure to receive a huge warm welcome. These 5" figures are the perfect size for little hands and will provide hours of happy play.

In fact, the Scooby Doo figures will fit perfectly in your purse or your child's carry bag for that trip to Grandma's Christmas afternoon.

Invite Scooby, Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne to your Christmas holiday -- you will be glad you did!

Biltmore license: garden urn

The ornate hand-carving on the limestone exterior of Biltmore House inspired this decorative pedestal urn for outdoor living areas. It measures 27 inches tall and 30 inches wide on a 15.5-inch base. The manufacturer is Unique Stone. Search the blog for other items licensed by Biltmore.

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Retailers: Contact the manufacturer for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Biltmore license: bird bath

Unique Stone began its collaboration with Biltmore by seeking inspiration from the estate's magnificent gardens and stone masonry. The company's sculptors are strongly influenced by architectural elements found in Biltmore House and the elegant accents throughout the grounds.
The Crown & Spiral Bird Bath is inspired by the crown molding in Mrs. Vanderbilt's bedroom.
"The architecture of Biltmore House has long been an inspiration for our partners," said Tim Rosebrock, vice president and general manager of Biltmore's licensing division.

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Retailers: Contact the manufacturer for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Leonidas Belgian Chocolate

Leonidas Belgian Chocolates: Gianduja -- Almond & Hazelnut Praliné

Leonidas Belgian Chocolate gets reviews that border on rapturous! People love their chocolate and they really love this one! This particular box is Almond and Hazelnut Pralines, "a silky smooth mixture of melted milk chocolate, sugar, and ground grilled hazelnuts and almonds." They also make dark chocolate, white chocolate and several other varieties. Go to Kona Coffee and Leonidas Belgian Chocolate Gifts to see some great Kona coffee to go with your chocolate.

Merry Christmas!

Hawaii Kona Coffee

Award Winning Farm Roasted 100% Kona Coffee, Whole Bean, Medium Roast, 1 Lb

Coffee drinkers agree that Kona coffee from Hawaii is the Cadillac of coffees. There is one small area in Hawaii that has the perfect weather conditions for growing great coffee. Make the coffee drinker on your list very happy this Christmas with a gift of Hawaii Roasters Kona coffee. Go to Kona Coffee and Leonidas Belgian Chocolate Gifts to see some great chocolate to go with your Kona.

Merry Christmas!

Biltmore license: area rugs

Orchard House
Finesse Gate House

Capel Rug's area rugs for Biltmore have evolved to include more contemporary designs inspired by the architecture and other details found in Biltmore House and gardens.

See more Biltmore-licensed items in yesterday's post.

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Retailers: Contact the manufacturer for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Biltmore license: garden stones

Biltmore's licensing division will be showing a collection of new home decor products at the Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market and the Atlanta International Area Rug Market in January 2010. The items are inspired by the historic Biltmore House and gardens.
Gift & Home Today will preview many of these items over the next several days.



The Biltmore Fleur Stepping Stone for the garden or walkway is inspired by the style of Biltmore House. These detailed stones are 12 inches square and are produced by Manual Woodworkers and Weavers.

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Retailers: Contact the manufacturer for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

A Big Thanksgiving...

THANK YOU.

To all of our loyal, long time customers who have supported us through the years...

Thank You.

To all of our new customers who have brought excitement and "oooohs and aahhhs..."

Thank You.

To the faithful Studio 5 viewers who support and watch our segments...

Thank You.

To our wonderful boss who supports us and lets us be creative...

Thank You.

We really are grateful for our wonderful guests.

Thank you for shopping at our store!

Hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Woolrich to exhibit at Atlanta gift show

from a press release
November 24, 2009, Woolrich, PA—Woolrich Home Furnishings announces its plans to participate in the upcoming Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market to be held January 8-11, 2010. The space is located in AmericasMart Building 1, Floor 2, in the High Country Lodge, #N07-11 and will showcase a comprehensive assortment of products from each of their home furnishings brand partners.
Woolrich chose to participate in the High Country Lodge area in order to maximize the visual aspect of their nature-inspired collection. In conjunction with Woolrich’s first Atlanta appearance will be the product debuts of their two newest licensees, Lynn Haney Collection and Rowe Pottery Works.
Offering a diverse range of product categories, Woolrich felt it was important to take part in a trade show that would focus on promoting their entire collection, and the unique environment of the High Country Lodge was a perfect fit, and became the deciding factor in their decision to show in Atlanta. They plan to create a display featuring each of their distinctive brand partners in a comfortable, realistic lifestyle setting, giving attendees the opportunity to not only experience the breadth of the Woolrich Home Furnishings line, but also appreciate the synergistic nature and ease of how the categories complement one another. Product categories include bedding ensembles from Berry Creek Home Collection, bath accessories by Blonder Home Accents, handcrafted collectible Santas from Lynn Haney Collection, Mohawk Home rugs, wall décor by Picture Source, pottery to include both tabletop and garden décor from Rowe Pottery Works, indoor furniture from Shadow Mountain, outdoor furniture by Whitecraft, indoor and outdoor lighting from Shady Lady Lighting, and Woolrich blankets.
“We want to do everything possible to promote and support each of our licensees,” noted Sharon Kepley, licensing manager of home furnishings for Woolrich. She added, “We know our participation in the Atlanta Market will give us an additional avenue to reach retailers who have yet to experience our nature-inspired designs. But we are also excited to provide our existing customers with new ways to cross-merchandise and further enhance their sales.”
A digital catalog featuring Woolrich’s complete line of home furnishings is available at www.woolrichhome.com/catalog for retailers and design professionals.

Its so easy. Not!

Went to watch 2012 today.
It was okayy. Sadly, wasn't as good as I thought.
Its too hard to imagine such situations ya know?
Far beyond my imaginations for realities.
Lil brother was so bising at first =='
Had to shut him up several times [of course the youngest one!]

Saw Vivien & Maine at QB =)
Saw Jia Jie and Sau Yit too!!
Don't know whether JJ recognizes me...
He was taking group pictures with his gang when I saw him from above
Wasn't sure whether its him and Kiki ordered my youngest bro to shout his name.
So. Frigging. LOUD.
annnnd...
He looks up =='
ARGH!! Damn embarrassing wei!!
He still look good though =)
Saw Sau Yit twice xD
The first time wasn't sure whether it's him, we're looking at each other and he waved hahah!
So yeahh, it's definitely him alright
Second time didn't notice him till he said my full name out loud
Am really surprised he still remembers my surname =D
Primary school friends rocks!!

Owh yeahh, wore the light grey
and Kiki wore Brown
We look so...=D

I miss some people right now
=)
And the baby hamster are crawling around the cage now!! Cho cuuute!!

Going down to KL on Saturday morning, then going to Johor on Monday morning
coming back on erm...Sunday? I think.
Moi cousin is getting married hahah
Which dress should I wear? ;D

Am not gonna forget about today.
It's the first time it happen, and I can be sure it can't be erase from my memories.
It hurts more than you'd ever know.


P.S It's been there for months.

P.P.S I wanna wanna wanna touch yyou.


From: Darkling Lovecraft aka Suezie

Pendant lighting with mica shade

Meyda Custom Lighting's dimmable CFL (Compact Fluorescent) pendant line featues mica and art glass designs. The energy-efficient lighting fixtures are made in the USA. Shown is the new 36-inch-square "Lineage" inverted mica pendant with silver mica shade panels and hand-finished bronze hardware.

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Retailers: Contact the manufacturer for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Keurig B70 Single Cup Brewer

The Keurig B70 Gourmet Single-Cup Home Brewing System
is a beautiful gift, especially with a full supply of assorted coffees, teas and hot chocolate.

This is a great gift for a couple, and especially seniors. The optional reusable coffee filter makes this coffee brewer affordable for everyone. My favorite feature is that you can not only make a fabulous cup of coffee, but also serve hot chocolate or tea as your guest prefers.

Keurig B70 Gourmet Single-Cup Home Brewing System
is my top gift choice for this year! Click for more information and see if you agree with me!

Framed Inspirational Poster ~ Imagination

Buy at AllPosters.com

This framed inspirational poster is captioned "Imagination" with a quote below from Theodore Roosevelt. "Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground."
The list price on this best selling poster is $124.99, with Allposters sale price being $99.99, that is a savings of $25.00. The finished size is 38 x 26. A lovely image of the starry night sky, it would look great in just about any room in the house from Living Room to Bedroom.
Merry Christmas!

Leatherman 830039 New Wave Multitool with Leather Sheath

Leatherman 830039 New Wave Multitool with Leather Sheath

The top-rated Leatherman is a multi tool that does not disappoint. It has 18 tools including 2 pliers, wire cutters, saw, 2 files, scissors, 2 knives, 2 screw drivers, bottle opener, 2 double-ended bits, and more. Make a place for the 100% stainless steel Leatherman on your tool belt because it can save the day in many situations. The Leatherman lists for $93 but right now Amazon has it for less than the manufacturer's suggested retail price.

Review from a happy customer:
October 1, 2009
By Van F. Jordan
Extremely utilitarian multi-tool. Sharp strong blades. Interchangeable screwdriver micro to standard. Sharp durable scissors. Biting needle nose pliers. A must for a craftman or do-it-yourselfer.

Another customer who was happy with the Leatherman:
October 14, 2009
By S. Hewes
This is great. I bought it for my boyfriend and he now carries it everywhere. The tools are all extremely useful, and the knife, saw and scissors are all extremely sharp. The price here is also great because everywhere else I looked it was over $90.

These are jut two out of a hundred reviews from satisfied customers. Think about slipping the Leatherman into the Christmas stockings of your menfolk.

Leatherman 830039 New Wave Multitool with Leather Sheath

Merry Christmas!