Make a Shared Christmas Gift for Under £20 (christmas Cake!)
May 28, 2009
Shireen Aga asked:
Barbara Walker, Co-Manager of the Jamaican boutique hideaway spot Hotel Mockingbird Hill, whose organic Restaurant Mille Fleurs has been acclaimed by Gourmet Magazine, believes this is the one time of the year that those who ‘don’t cook’ should take a Sunday afternoon to get back into the kitchen.
Barbara says “I don’t have to go into the kitchen that often anymore and I am happy to leave the kitchen space to our wonderful trained Chefs, however the first Sunday of December is when I break that rule and the oven becomes mine, bearing in mind that I never bake. There is nothing better than spending the afternoon stirring, whisking and beating whilst remembering my Mother’s wonderful Christmas Cake Recipe, which she is now passing on to her granddaughter. Just knowing that I can create something to share at Christmas, which is so good, that it is being handed down from one generation to the next without alteration – that is quite a rare accomplishment in today’s world.”
If you don’t have a family Christmas cake recipe to celebrate this holiday season why not try hers:
Barbara’s Rich Jamaican Rum Christmas Fruit Cake:
(for spices these are only guidelines – check and adjust to personal taste)
1.5kg finely chopped mixed dried fruit (use a blender or food processor if you prefer a smoother type of cake and preferably fruit that has been steeped in golden rum for a minimum of 2 weeks for before cooking date)
500 gm brown sugar
500 gm butter
750 gm flour (we use whole wheat but you could use white, if so you’ll possibly have to check the consistency) –if the mixture seems a little too wet add a little flour
1 tbsp. cinnamon powder
1 tbsp. nutmeg grated
1 tbsp.pimento powder (allspice)
1 tbsp. baking powder
1 doz. eggs
2 tbsp. vanilla essence
Pinch of salt
Method:
Cream sugar and butter until it is white and fluffy.
Seive the flour and mix in the dried spices, salt and baking powder
Alternatively add one egg at a time followed by a few tablespoons of the spiced flour mixture
When all eggs and flour are thoroughly mixed add the vanilla essence
Add enough of the fruit mixture until it gets a rich brown colour.
Put into baking tins which are lined with grease-proof paper and bake at a very low temperature 100C for approx. 2.5 -3 hours (and enjoy the aromas in the kitchen while the cake bakes!)
This cake is a moist cake so when you test it with a needle or pin, it will always be a bit sticky but check that the mixture is cooked through.
When cake is done, take it out of the baking tins immediately otherwise it will sweat. Leave to cool.
When cool, return to baking tin or to a storage tin and pour about 12 cl. (about 3 pegs or double shot) of rum and close the tin. Repeat this once a week till Christmas – the longer the cake is stored, the better it tastes!
The fun part about this mixture is that it can also make the Christmas dinner’s Christmas pudding: instead of baking all the mixture put some into greased and floured pyrex dishes, cover firmly with greaseproof our brown paper and steam -1½ hours in a pressure cooker or 2½ -3 hours in a bain-marie. When done, open up, pour over about 12cl of rum and put away for Christmas day. Repeat this once a week till Christmas – the longer the pudding is stored, the better it tastes! On Christmas day just warm up the pudding for about ½ hour in a bain-marie and serve with rum butter.
So an easy gift for your family & Father Christmas in 3 easy steps:
1. Steep you fruit in golden rum
2. Bake the cake and steam the pudding
3. Let the cake soak “golden sunshine” rum in a minimum of 2 weeks leading up to Christmas.
Recipe courtesy of Barbara Walker, Hotel Mockingbird Hill, Jamaica
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
Barbara Walker, Co-Manager of the Jamaican boutique hideaway spot Hotel Mockingbird Hill, whose organic Restaurant Mille Fleurs has been acclaimed by Gourmet Magazine, believes this is the one time of the year that those who ‘don’t cook’ should take a Sunday afternoon to get back into the kitchen.
Barbara says “I don’t have to go into the kitchen that often anymore and I am happy to leave the kitchen space to our wonderful trained Chefs, however the first Sunday of December is when I break that rule and the oven becomes mine, bearing in mind that I never bake. There is nothing better than spending the afternoon stirring, whisking and beating whilst remembering my Mother’s wonderful Christmas Cake Recipe, which she is now passing on to her granddaughter. Just knowing that I can create something to share at Christmas, which is so good, that it is being handed down from one generation to the next without alteration – that is quite a rare accomplishment in today’s world.”
If you don’t have a family Christmas cake recipe to celebrate this holiday season why not try hers:
Barbara’s Rich Jamaican Rum Christmas Fruit Cake:
(for spices these are only guidelines – check and adjust to personal taste)
1.5kg finely chopped mixed dried fruit (use a blender or food processor if you prefer a smoother type of cake and preferably fruit that has been steeped in golden rum for a minimum of 2 weeks for before cooking date)
500 gm brown sugar
500 gm butter
750 gm flour (we use whole wheat but you could use white, if so you’ll possibly have to check the consistency) –if the mixture seems a little too wet add a little flour
1 tbsp. cinnamon powder
1 tbsp. nutmeg grated
1 tbsp.pimento powder (allspice)
1 tbsp. baking powder
1 doz. eggs
2 tbsp. vanilla essence
Pinch of salt
Method:
Cream sugar and butter until it is white and fluffy.
Seive the flour and mix in the dried spices, salt and baking powder
Alternatively add one egg at a time followed by a few tablespoons of the spiced flour mixture
When all eggs and flour are thoroughly mixed add the vanilla essence
Add enough of the fruit mixture until it gets a rich brown colour.
Put into baking tins which are lined with grease-proof paper and bake at a very low temperature 100C for approx. 2.5 -3 hours (and enjoy the aromas in the kitchen while the cake bakes!)
This cake is a moist cake so when you test it with a needle or pin, it will always be a bit sticky but check that the mixture is cooked through.
When cake is done, take it out of the baking tins immediately otherwise it will sweat. Leave to cool.
When cool, return to baking tin or to a storage tin and pour about 12 cl. (about 3 pegs or double shot) of rum and close the tin. Repeat this once a week till Christmas – the longer the cake is stored, the better it tastes!
The fun part about this mixture is that it can also make the Christmas dinner’s Christmas pudding: instead of baking all the mixture put some into greased and floured pyrex dishes, cover firmly with greaseproof our brown paper and steam -1½ hours in a pressure cooker or 2½ -3 hours in a bain-marie. When done, open up, pour over about 12cl of rum and put away for Christmas day. Repeat this once a week till Christmas – the longer the pudding is stored, the better it tastes! On Christmas day just warm up the pudding for about ½ hour in a bain-marie and serve with rum butter.
So an easy gift for your family & Father Christmas in 3 easy steps:
1. Steep you fruit in golden rum
2. Bake the cake and steam the pudding
3. Let the cake soak “golden sunshine” rum in a minimum of 2 weeks leading up to Christmas.
Recipe courtesy of Barbara Walker, Hotel Mockingbird Hill, Jamaica
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
Christmas Gifts for Her: Imaginative and Spectacular Gifts for Your Women
May 27, 2009
Totally Gifts asked:
Looking for a stunning Christmas gift for a lady? The answer to this question can be availed by considering the Christmas gifts for her. Women are soft hearted and usually fond of fashionable and exquisite gifts. They are also attracted towards creative and fabulous gift ideas.
Christmas gifts for her presents innovative and unique gifts for women this Christmas. You can find gifts for your mother, sister, daughter, wife or boss by considering this collection. The collection is entitled according to personality and hobbies. The gifts have implication and send your warm Christmas wishes in this festive season. Christmas gifts are enriched with fabulous gifts that are vogue and instantly captivate the heart of the lady. If you are looking for some imaginative and spectacular gift ideas then consider- Name a Star Gift Box, Laird or Lady Gift Box, Name a Rose Gift Pack, Replica Gold Disc etc. The features of these gift ideas will sure to make her feel special.
Christmas gifts for her are also inundated with inspirational gift ideas. For example: Music Recording Studio Experience, London Helicopter Sightseeing Tour, Floating Experience etc. The gift ideas are excitement-oriented and inspire the recipient to pursue their hobbies in the future. Music Recording Studio Experience is an ideal gift for persons who desire to be a pop star. This experience voucher enables the participant to sing and record her voice in a professional studio by mastering the entire experience personally. At the end of the day or the whole experience is captured in a CD which can be shared with dear ones later.
Girls are fond of chocolates and presenting something related to chocolate is sure to amuse them. Christmas gifts for her presents the Name a Chocolate Gift Box and Chocolate Delight Workshop. In the Chocolate Delight Workshop, professional Chocolatiers give lessons how to make truffles and sample the bits before dipping into the genuine Belgium chocolates. This is a wonderful experience and participants can also carry their handmade chocolates home. Thus, with the splendid collection of Christmas gifts for her, you can make your lady feel admired and the Christmas season special and enduring.
Chocolate Buttons Galore
Looking for a stunning Christmas gift for a lady? The answer to this question can be availed by considering the Christmas gifts for her. Women are soft hearted and usually fond of fashionable and exquisite gifts. They are also attracted towards creative and fabulous gift ideas.
Christmas gifts for her presents innovative and unique gifts for women this Christmas. You can find gifts for your mother, sister, daughter, wife or boss by considering this collection. The collection is entitled according to personality and hobbies. The gifts have implication and send your warm Christmas wishes in this festive season. Christmas gifts are enriched with fabulous gifts that are vogue and instantly captivate the heart of the lady. If you are looking for some imaginative and spectacular gift ideas then consider- Name a Star Gift Box, Laird or Lady Gift Box, Name a Rose Gift Pack, Replica Gold Disc etc. The features of these gift ideas will sure to make her feel special.
Christmas gifts for her are also inundated with inspirational gift ideas. For example: Music Recording Studio Experience, London Helicopter Sightseeing Tour, Floating Experience etc. The gift ideas are excitement-oriented and inspire the recipient to pursue their hobbies in the future. Music Recording Studio Experience is an ideal gift for persons who desire to be a pop star. This experience voucher enables the participant to sing and record her voice in a professional studio by mastering the entire experience personally. At the end of the day or the whole experience is captured in a CD which can be shared with dear ones later.
Girls are fond of chocolates and presenting something related to chocolate is sure to amuse them. Christmas gifts for her presents the Name a Chocolate Gift Box and Chocolate Delight Workshop. In the Chocolate Delight Workshop, professional Chocolatiers give lessons how to make truffles and sample the bits before dipping into the genuine Belgium chocolates. This is a wonderful experience and participants can also carry their handmade chocolates home. Thus, with the splendid collection of Christmas gifts for her, you can make your lady feel admired and the Christmas season special and enduring.
Chocolate Buttons Galore
Dog Gifts And Cat Gifts
May 26, 2009
Kate S asked:
Pet ownership in the United States is on the rise. A recent survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association indicates that four in ten (43 million) U.S. households own at least one dog, and three in ten (37.5 million) households own at least one cat. This increase in pet ownership reflects more people realize pets can truly enrich their lives. Pets not only provide companionship, unconditional love and affection, research now shows they also provide significant health benefits. Pets can help to reduce stress, relieve loneliness and depression. Moreover, pets can provide opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities, and socializaton. Published scientific studies show that pets can decrease their owner\’s blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and feelings of loneliness. Older people who have pets tend to have better physical and mental health than those who don’t.
In parallel to the increase in pet ownership, gift-giving to pets continues to rise. A recent survey shows eight out of ten dog owners buy dog gifts and 63 percent of cat owners purchase gifts for the family feline. Moreover, the gifts are not just purchased at Christmas, but also for birthdays, Easter, Halloween, Valentine\’s Day, or for no special occasion. This article reviews some popular dog gifts and cat gifts available online.
Popular dog gifts include natural dog treats, dog gift basket, gift tower, and care package. The natural dog treats are bone-shaped biscuits that come in one pound gift bag and in three different flavors: peanut, carob chip and oatmeal cinnamon. These crunchy delicious treats will be received by your pet dog with excessive tail wagging and plenty of kisses. These inexpensive dog treats are ideal gifts for dog lovers.
Another popular gift, the dog gift basket, consists of a chrome bone shaped wire basket filled with a chew toy, a package of chewy treats and special dog biscuit mix that the dog owner will bake. Dog biscuit mix comes with simple instructions and a bone shaped cookie cutter to cut out and bake the biscuits. Anyone feeding these treats to the dog can look forward to plenty of wet kisses from that pampered pet.
The dog gift tower consists of a set of adorable boxes stacked on top of one another and make great storage for doggie\’s toys later. Every box is filled with pleasant surprises, including doggie shampoo, plaster dog print kit, doggie chew ball, 2 doggie chew toy, washing mitt or brush, a paw print box filled with beef flavored dog bones, and an 8\” playful puppy toy. This gift will delight your favorite pooch or pooch lover.
Another fantastic gift to spoil the dog in your life or its owner is a pet care package designed specifically for the dog lover. This adorable dog paw print gift box comes filled with doggie ball, doggie chew toy, doggie shampoo, plaster dog print kit, doggie washing mitt or brush, and a paw print box filled with beef flavored dog bones treats.
Popular cat gifts include cat gift box and cat gift basket. The house shaped cat gift box is full of treats for a good kitty. It includes over a cup of tuna flavored snacks and a mouse play toy. These cat snacks are low fat and low calorie, so you don\’t have to worry about the cat\’s weight. It is a perfect gift for any friend or family member who has a cat.
The cat gift basket consists of a chrome cat-shaped wire container as a keepsake. It is filled with a seed mixture of herbs and cat grasses to grow in any sunny place, a cat toy, and a bag of kitty treats mix that the cat owner will bake after cutting out with a metal fish-shaped cookie cutter. All the cat owner needs is a bowl, water and an oven to make these treats. This gift basket is sure to pamper any feline.
In conclsuion, gift-giving to pet dogs and cats is on the rise, probably as a result of increasing pet ownership, and scientific confirmation on the benefits of pet ownership. Great selections of dog gifts and cat gifts are available. These gifts are not only ideal for showing your affection to your pets, but also make great dog lover gifts or cat lover gifts.
Kate S. is the CEO of Gift Basket for All, LLC. You can visit her site by clicking on the link below:
Gift Baskets
Gift Basket for All.com offers sensational gift baskets for all occasions, including anniversary, holidays, new baby, birthday, corporate events, get well, sympathy.
For information on products reviewed in this article, please click on Dog Gifts, Cat Gifts
Chocolate Buttons Galore
Pet ownership in the United States is on the rise. A recent survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association indicates that four in ten (43 million) U.S. households own at least one dog, and three in ten (37.5 million) households own at least one cat. This increase in pet ownership reflects more people realize pets can truly enrich their lives. Pets not only provide companionship, unconditional love and affection, research now shows they also provide significant health benefits. Pets can help to reduce stress, relieve loneliness and depression. Moreover, pets can provide opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities, and socializaton. Published scientific studies show that pets can decrease their owner\’s blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and feelings of loneliness. Older people who have pets tend to have better physical and mental health than those who don’t.
In parallel to the increase in pet ownership, gift-giving to pets continues to rise. A recent survey shows eight out of ten dog owners buy dog gifts and 63 percent of cat owners purchase gifts for the family feline. Moreover, the gifts are not just purchased at Christmas, but also for birthdays, Easter, Halloween, Valentine\’s Day, or for no special occasion. This article reviews some popular dog gifts and cat gifts available online.
Popular dog gifts include natural dog treats, dog gift basket, gift tower, and care package. The natural dog treats are bone-shaped biscuits that come in one pound gift bag and in three different flavors: peanut, carob chip and oatmeal cinnamon. These crunchy delicious treats will be received by your pet dog with excessive tail wagging and plenty of kisses. These inexpensive dog treats are ideal gifts for dog lovers.
Another popular gift, the dog gift basket, consists of a chrome bone shaped wire basket filled with a chew toy, a package of chewy treats and special dog biscuit mix that the dog owner will bake. Dog biscuit mix comes with simple instructions and a bone shaped cookie cutter to cut out and bake the biscuits. Anyone feeding these treats to the dog can look forward to plenty of wet kisses from that pampered pet.
The dog gift tower consists of a set of adorable boxes stacked on top of one another and make great storage for doggie\’s toys later. Every box is filled with pleasant surprises, including doggie shampoo, plaster dog print kit, doggie chew ball, 2 doggie chew toy, washing mitt or brush, a paw print box filled with beef flavored dog bones, and an 8\” playful puppy toy. This gift will delight your favorite pooch or pooch lover.
Another fantastic gift to spoil the dog in your life or its owner is a pet care package designed specifically for the dog lover. This adorable dog paw print gift box comes filled with doggie ball, doggie chew toy, doggie shampoo, plaster dog print kit, doggie washing mitt or brush, and a paw print box filled with beef flavored dog bones treats.
Popular cat gifts include cat gift box and cat gift basket. The house shaped cat gift box is full of treats for a good kitty. It includes over a cup of tuna flavored snacks and a mouse play toy. These cat snacks are low fat and low calorie, so you don\’t have to worry about the cat\’s weight. It is a perfect gift for any friend or family member who has a cat.
The cat gift basket consists of a chrome cat-shaped wire container as a keepsake. It is filled with a seed mixture of herbs and cat grasses to grow in any sunny place, a cat toy, and a bag of kitty treats mix that the cat owner will bake after cutting out with a metal fish-shaped cookie cutter. All the cat owner needs is a bowl, water and an oven to make these treats. This gift basket is sure to pamper any feline.
In conclsuion, gift-giving to pet dogs and cats is on the rise, probably as a result of increasing pet ownership, and scientific confirmation on the benefits of pet ownership. Great selections of dog gifts and cat gifts are available. These gifts are not only ideal for showing your affection to your pets, but also make great dog lover gifts or cat lover gifts.
Kate S. is the CEO of Gift Basket for All, LLC. You can visit her site by clicking on the link below:
Gift Baskets
Gift Basket for All.com offers sensational gift baskets for all occasions, including anniversary, holidays, new baby, birthday, corporate events, get well, sympathy.
For information on products reviewed in this article, please click on Dog Gifts, Cat Gifts
Chocolate Buttons Galore
Great Christmas Gift Ideas for Pet Lovers
May 25, 2009
Krista QQ(www.123giftfactory.com) asked:
It can be difficult to find a good and trustworthy dog walker, cat walker or dog sitter. But when a pet owner does find that perfect pet sitter or dog walker, many seek to give a nice holiday gift to their pet helper, though coming up with a good gift idea for a dog walker or pet sitter can be difficult.
Now check out following Christmas gift ideas for pet lovers include gift suggestions for every holiday shopper’s budget:
Gift Card to a Local Pet Store
Most pet walkers and dog sitters have a dog, cat or other pet of their own. Find out if the dog walker or dog sitter has a pet at home. If so, one great gift idea that the pet sitter or dog walker is sure to love is a gift card to a local pet store.
A pet store gift card will appeal to virtually all dog sitters, cat sitters or dog walkers, since the gift card can be used to purchase something more practical like food or supplies, or the gift card can be used to purchase a fun pet novelty item, like dog clothing or a cute new pet bed.
A Gift Certificate to a Local Athletic Shoe Store
Dog walkers spend a lot of time on their feet and a great pair of shoes can make all the difference. A gift certificate to a local athletic shoe store will allow the dog sitter to pick out a great new pair of walking shoes that will make those daily dog walks more comfortable and more enjoyable.
A Gift Spa Certificate or A Gift Massage Certificate
Pet walking and pet sitting can be physically demanding, stressful and mentally exhausting at times. So give the cat sitter, dog walker, dog sitter or other pet sitter the gift of relaxation and pampering with a gift certificate to a local spa or masseuse for a massage. Women may enjoy a relaxing facial, while both men and women can enjoy a leg and foot massage or a back massage.
For pet owners who like this gift idea, but who are looking to spend a bit less on a gift for the dog sitter or pet walker, consider a gift from The Body Shop or Bath and Body Works. Most female dog walkers and pet sitters will enjoy a bath and body-themed gift set of bubble bath, bath oils, scented lotion and a candle - all the items that are needed for a relaxing bath after a long day of dog walking or pet sitting.
Handmade Pet Clothing
For pet owners who don’t have a lot of money to spend on a gift for a dog walker or pet sitter, consider a handmade (or store-bought, for the less crafty folks) scarf, gloves, hat or sweater, to keep the dog walker warm during those winter dog walks.
There’s even crafters who can turn dog or cat hair into yarn, that’s then dyed and knitted into a scarf, sweater, etc. So those more eccentric dog owners can save the fur from those daily brushings and one day, there will be enough fur to create a knitted item like a hat, scarf or sweater. It’s a unique gift idea that’s literally “from the dog!”
Homemade Pet Treats or Baked Pet Foods
Another great inexpensive gift idea for a dog walker or pet sitter is Homemade Pet Treats or Baked Goods, why not? To bake some homemade dog treats or homemade cat treats for the dog sitter or pet walker’s own dogs or cats. Homemade pet treats are a thoughtful gift idea that’s inexpensive yet charming.
Most pet sitters and dog walkers have a pet or two (or ten) at home, but a few dog walkers and pet sitters work with animals because they don’t have pets at home and their work provides them with an opportunity to enjoy the companionship of dogs, cats and other pets. For a dog walker, dog sitter or cat sitter who does not have a cat or dog at home, give the gift of some homemade holiday cookies that can be placed in a colorful tin. This homemade gift is simple and inexpensive, yet thoughtful.
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
It can be difficult to find a good and trustworthy dog walker, cat walker or dog sitter. But when a pet owner does find that perfect pet sitter or dog walker, many seek to give a nice holiday gift to their pet helper, though coming up with a good gift idea for a dog walker or pet sitter can be difficult.
Now check out following Christmas gift ideas for pet lovers include gift suggestions for every holiday shopper’s budget:
Gift Card to a Local Pet Store
Most pet walkers and dog sitters have a dog, cat or other pet of their own. Find out if the dog walker or dog sitter has a pet at home. If so, one great gift idea that the pet sitter or dog walker is sure to love is a gift card to a local pet store.
A pet store gift card will appeal to virtually all dog sitters, cat sitters or dog walkers, since the gift card can be used to purchase something more practical like food or supplies, or the gift card can be used to purchase a fun pet novelty item, like dog clothing or a cute new pet bed.
A Gift Certificate to a Local Athletic Shoe Store
Dog walkers spend a lot of time on their feet and a great pair of shoes can make all the difference. A gift certificate to a local athletic shoe store will allow the dog sitter to pick out a great new pair of walking shoes that will make those daily dog walks more comfortable and more enjoyable.
A Gift Spa Certificate or A Gift Massage Certificate
Pet walking and pet sitting can be physically demanding, stressful and mentally exhausting at times. So give the cat sitter, dog walker, dog sitter or other pet sitter the gift of relaxation and pampering with a gift certificate to a local spa or masseuse for a massage. Women may enjoy a relaxing facial, while both men and women can enjoy a leg and foot massage or a back massage.
For pet owners who like this gift idea, but who are looking to spend a bit less on a gift for the dog sitter or pet walker, consider a gift from The Body Shop or Bath and Body Works. Most female dog walkers and pet sitters will enjoy a bath and body-themed gift set of bubble bath, bath oils, scented lotion and a candle - all the items that are needed for a relaxing bath after a long day of dog walking or pet sitting.
Handmade Pet Clothing
For pet owners who don’t have a lot of money to spend on a gift for a dog walker or pet sitter, consider a handmade (or store-bought, for the less crafty folks) scarf, gloves, hat or sweater, to keep the dog walker warm during those winter dog walks.
There’s even crafters who can turn dog or cat hair into yarn, that’s then dyed and knitted into a scarf, sweater, etc. So those more eccentric dog owners can save the fur from those daily brushings and one day, there will be enough fur to create a knitted item like a hat, scarf or sweater. It’s a unique gift idea that’s literally “from the dog!”
Homemade Pet Treats or Baked Pet Foods
Another great inexpensive gift idea for a dog walker or pet sitter is Homemade Pet Treats or Baked Goods, why not? To bake some homemade dog treats or homemade cat treats for the dog sitter or pet walker’s own dogs or cats. Homemade pet treats are a thoughtful gift idea that’s inexpensive yet charming.
Most pet sitters and dog walkers have a pet or two (or ten) at home, but a few dog walkers and pet sitters work with animals because they don’t have pets at home and their work provides them with an opportunity to enjoy the companionship of dogs, cats and other pets. For a dog walker, dog sitter or cat sitter who does not have a cat or dog at home, give the gift of some homemade holiday cookies that can be placed in a colorful tin. This homemade gift is simple and inexpensive, yet thoughtful.
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
Music Review (Last minute gift ideas)
May 23, 2009
Bill Flanagan reviews 5 new albums for the holidays: Ian McLagan & the Bump Band’s “Never Say Never” Charlie Haden’s “Rambling Boy” Sonny Rollins’ “Road Shows” The Hold Steady “Stay Positive” Toumani Diabate “Mande Variations” Bill Flanagan is a frequent contributor to the CBS Sunday Morning program (and has turned me on to some great music). Bill Flanagan is senior vice president and editorial director of VH1. Flanagan has written for Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, GQ, Esquire, Spy, and many …
5 Top Classic Gifts Always in Fashion
May 23, 2009
TravisOl asked:
Soon Merry Christmas season is coming alongside with the Happy New Year! Do you hear jingle bells? We adore celebrating these amazing holidays. People are passionate about giving and receiving gifts. It is a real fun. Of course, we have already plenty of presents. But, every time we look for a very nice, useful and unique gift. Among rich variety of items on the marketplace, I would like to select those 5 gifts that, in my opinion, can be a good choice for each person.
1. One of the best ways to celebrate occasion for the pregnant Mum or just new-born is to provide them with so called baby shower party. It is a good opportunity for all relatives and friends to gather altogether and give the most needed things to the baby. You can decorate the place where Mum and baby lives in red, green or gold colour ornamentation like balloons, streamers, confetti or glitters. It gives an extra effect and creates a cheerful mood. As for the food, you can cook a Strawberry Christmas Cake or Coconut Oatmeal Cookies with hot chocolate is going to be a perfect drink.
2. These teenage boys are very advanced in our times. They are fond of new technologies like mobile phones, iphones, iPods, electronic games, laptops etc. You can provide an electronic library for your child, a collection of music or some exciting DVDs. If you want to satisfy your boy interests and curiosity, buy him the latest object of the modern technologies. Start shopping favourite christmas gifts for baby right now. Most of the gifts you can find online thus you save your time. There are a lot of items that will please any recipient. If your boy is very keen on animals, then a pet is the right gift for him. A dog can be a good friend for your son.
3. Fashion is a very changeable phenomenon. Sometimes it is hard to keep up with it. Occasionally fashionable and stylish clothes, footwear or accessories are not convenient in the everyday life or are not suitable for dress- code parties. Today you buy a new pair of jeans and tomorrow this pair is not the latest thing. Either you are drowning in fashion or trying to run after the flow. I can give you a piece of advice regarding what to give to a teenage girl. So, instead of running like a head cut chicken about shopping malls and markets in order to buy an unnecessary item, try to find a classical piece that never go out of style. For example, every girl would like to have the little black dress invented by Madam Coco Chanel in her wardrobe. Black colour is always in style and time. Here you must choose the right size as well as nice cut and good fabric. Piquant detail of romance!
4. If you are looking for a special gift to the newly-made parents I suggest you to give them an electronic babysitter. It helps them to control what their child doing to the next room. It is portable and rather convenient. It transfers all sounds and movements of your child. So, it is the best gift for parents.
5. Jewellery! I think that every woman would be very glad to have a new ring, necklace or a couple of precious stones in her treasure box. Among wide range of necklaces and bracelets you must choose that one that suits style of your woman perfectly, also you must select the right size. You better take your woman to the Jeweller’s and buy what she prefers. Moreover, I love the idea about personalized jewellery. This gift might be very unique and exclusive for the person who has everything and wants something very special.
To finish our research I want to tell that while looking for a suitable gift you must take into account 3 main things- 1) packing, 2) creativity and 3) soul. Try to wrapp very carefully and delicately, also the gift should have some special appeal in it (not a common type) as well as must have a piece of your soul and contribution. Then, these components will find their response in people hearts.
Corsets for all Occasions
Soon Merry Christmas season is coming alongside with the Happy New Year! Do you hear jingle bells? We adore celebrating these amazing holidays. People are passionate about giving and receiving gifts. It is a real fun. Of course, we have already plenty of presents. But, every time we look for a very nice, useful and unique gift. Among rich variety of items on the marketplace, I would like to select those 5 gifts that, in my opinion, can be a good choice for each person.
1. One of the best ways to celebrate occasion for the pregnant Mum or just new-born is to provide them with so called baby shower party. It is a good opportunity for all relatives and friends to gather altogether and give the most needed things to the baby. You can decorate the place where Mum and baby lives in red, green or gold colour ornamentation like balloons, streamers, confetti or glitters. It gives an extra effect and creates a cheerful mood. As for the food, you can cook a Strawberry Christmas Cake or Coconut Oatmeal Cookies with hot chocolate is going to be a perfect drink.
2. These teenage boys are very advanced in our times. They are fond of new technologies like mobile phones, iphones, iPods, electronic games, laptops etc. You can provide an electronic library for your child, a collection of music or some exciting DVDs. If you want to satisfy your boy interests and curiosity, buy him the latest object of the modern technologies. Start shopping favourite christmas gifts for baby right now. Most of the gifts you can find online thus you save your time. There are a lot of items that will please any recipient. If your boy is very keen on animals, then a pet is the right gift for him. A dog can be a good friend for your son.
3. Fashion is a very changeable phenomenon. Sometimes it is hard to keep up with it. Occasionally fashionable and stylish clothes, footwear or accessories are not convenient in the everyday life or are not suitable for dress- code parties. Today you buy a new pair of jeans and tomorrow this pair is not the latest thing. Either you are drowning in fashion or trying to run after the flow. I can give you a piece of advice regarding what to give to a teenage girl. So, instead of running like a head cut chicken about shopping malls and markets in order to buy an unnecessary item, try to find a classical piece that never go out of style. For example, every girl would like to have the little black dress invented by Madam Coco Chanel in her wardrobe. Black colour is always in style and time. Here you must choose the right size as well as nice cut and good fabric. Piquant detail of romance!
4. If you are looking for a special gift to the newly-made parents I suggest you to give them an electronic babysitter. It helps them to control what their child doing to the next room. It is portable and rather convenient. It transfers all sounds and movements of your child. So, it is the best gift for parents.
5. Jewellery! I think that every woman would be very glad to have a new ring, necklace or a couple of precious stones in her treasure box. Among wide range of necklaces and bracelets you must choose that one that suits style of your woman perfectly, also you must select the right size. You better take your woman to the Jeweller’s and buy what she prefers. Moreover, I love the idea about personalized jewellery. This gift might be very unique and exclusive for the person who has everything and wants something very special.
To finish our research I want to tell that while looking for a suitable gift you must take into account 3 main things- 1) packing, 2) creativity and 3) soul. Try to wrapp very carefully and delicately, also the gift should have some special appeal in it (not a common type) as well as must have a piece of your soul and contribution. Then, these components will find their response in people hearts.
Corsets for all Occasions
Cupcake Song
May 22, 2009
It’s just a little slideshow with pictures of cute cupcakes. I hope you like it. I did it in a hurry so its not that good, but anyway … Enjoy =P
The Mystery Unwrapped - How to Successfully Buy Gifts for Women This Christmas
May 21, 2009
John Smith asked:
So, Christmas time rolls around and, once more, you are stranded without a clue how to buy Christmas gifts for the beloved ladies in your life. I know, I too am male, and as such seemingly bound by an inability to empathise with and understand just what Christmas gifts wives, girlfriends, mothers and aunties desire. It’s a minefield alright.
However, all is not completely lost. With the advent of internet shopping, avenues for research on Christmas gifts for the fairer sex are wider and far more numerous. Whilst there are always the “safe” options of perfume, make-up, underwear and their favourite girly DVD (Cinderella in my girlfriend’s case), these do not necessarily communicate what we are trying to say. Our Christmas Gifts should show our love, gratitude and affection for the special women in our lives, but as men we often find these feelings difficult to put across.
So, we turn to the internet, and many sites now answer our prayers by sub-dividing categories of Christmas gifts. Ideas now are not just limited to typical gifts such as the above, but other exciting and thoughtful Christmas gift options.
Great ideas range from the energetic to the relaxing. Some places offer special experience days. This ideal Christmas gift can give experiences from special spa pampering sessions, to recording studio time, and from West End theatre trips to gliding lessons. These are all innovative ideas for presents, and would no doubt thrill your special lady, mum, daughter, or girlfriend alike.
For mums specifically there is a wide selection of thoughtful Christmas gifts, usually laid out in a special category for the research-averse. A personalised bottle of wine would be a nice touch, as would the “number one mum” photo frame, both thoughtful gifts. Other thoughtful options exist also, including the galactic option of naming a star after your mum and for the chocoholic parent, the “Chocoholics Pizza”, a 10″-12″ pizza constructed from chocolate, jellybeans and Smarties, among other goodies.
For men, however, the biggest minefield with Christmas gifts is definitely with their girlfriend or wife. Whereas mums are more likely to forgive their offspring for any off-the-mark Christmas gift, the girlfriend’s present must be spot-on. A particularly thoughtful present can be found online, and is any UK top 40 single amazingly framed with a plaque bearing a message of your choice. With any couple there is that special song that is “theirs”, and this is a very thoughtful Christmas gift which she would no doubt appreciate.
Other thoughtful gift ideas for your girlfriend abound, and include more traditional ideas. A box of luxury champagne and chocolates with a personal message show how much you think she should be pampered, and for those suffering with the dark December nights, the Sun Jar is a good Christmas gift. The Sun Jar stores sunlight during the day and glows at night, giving the sun-worshipping girl in your life hope that summer will soon be coming!
For the animal-friendly lady in your life, other options might appeal. Along this line, a good Christmas gift idea could be to adopt a reindeer. The Cairngorm reindeer herd are the last in the UK, and by adopting one you are ensuring that they are not only thought of at Christmas. There is visiting information included in the personalised pack, and this would make a great gift for any animal lover.
If you’re feeling that you want to get in on your special girl’s gift, or if you are just generous enough to let her take a friend, there are a wide selection of trips to undertake. You could book a two-day health spa pass for her, or if you desire something more exotic, an Arabian Rasul steam vault experience. In this treatment, you are treated to four different types of mineral-rich mud and healthy salts that work to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed and your skin smooth and supple. This is a perfectly indulgent Christmas gift for her and a friend, and for you too if you wish!
However, all the women in your life might not be as close to you, for instance a work colleague or friend. For these, some of the more elaborate Christmas gifts might be a bit much, and there are some excellent present ideas for this also. A grow-it-yourself bonsai tree set is an original gift, and for the more quirky friend special comedy books such as Edward Monkton’s “The Lady and the Chocolate Book” would be an original gift idea. This brilliantly surreal book would bring a smile to anyone who reads it, and funny key rings and mugs also make a good Christmas gift in this case.
In short, buying Christmas gifts for the woman in your life is a case of just adding a little thought. In a lot of cases, the gift is not really an issue but merely the act of taking the time and thought over the gift is what is important. With that in mind, good luck men!
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
So, Christmas time rolls around and, once more, you are stranded without a clue how to buy Christmas gifts for the beloved ladies in your life. I know, I too am male, and as such seemingly bound by an inability to empathise with and understand just what Christmas gifts wives, girlfriends, mothers and aunties desire. It’s a minefield alright.
However, all is not completely lost. With the advent of internet shopping, avenues for research on Christmas gifts for the fairer sex are wider and far more numerous. Whilst there are always the “safe” options of perfume, make-up, underwear and their favourite girly DVD (Cinderella in my girlfriend’s case), these do not necessarily communicate what we are trying to say. Our Christmas Gifts should show our love, gratitude and affection for the special women in our lives, but as men we often find these feelings difficult to put across.
So, we turn to the internet, and many sites now answer our prayers by sub-dividing categories of Christmas gifts. Ideas now are not just limited to typical gifts such as the above, but other exciting and thoughtful Christmas gift options.
Great ideas range from the energetic to the relaxing. Some places offer special experience days. This ideal Christmas gift can give experiences from special spa pampering sessions, to recording studio time, and from West End theatre trips to gliding lessons. These are all innovative ideas for presents, and would no doubt thrill your special lady, mum, daughter, or girlfriend alike.
For mums specifically there is a wide selection of thoughtful Christmas gifts, usually laid out in a special category for the research-averse. A personalised bottle of wine would be a nice touch, as would the “number one mum” photo frame, both thoughtful gifts. Other thoughtful options exist also, including the galactic option of naming a star after your mum and for the chocoholic parent, the “Chocoholics Pizza”, a 10″-12″ pizza constructed from chocolate, jellybeans and Smarties, among other goodies.
For men, however, the biggest minefield with Christmas gifts is definitely with their girlfriend or wife. Whereas mums are more likely to forgive their offspring for any off-the-mark Christmas gift, the girlfriend’s present must be spot-on. A particularly thoughtful present can be found online, and is any UK top 40 single amazingly framed with a plaque bearing a message of your choice. With any couple there is that special song that is “theirs”, and this is a very thoughtful Christmas gift which she would no doubt appreciate.
Other thoughtful gift ideas for your girlfriend abound, and include more traditional ideas. A box of luxury champagne and chocolates with a personal message show how much you think she should be pampered, and for those suffering with the dark December nights, the Sun Jar is a good Christmas gift. The Sun Jar stores sunlight during the day and glows at night, giving the sun-worshipping girl in your life hope that summer will soon be coming!
For the animal-friendly lady in your life, other options might appeal. Along this line, a good Christmas gift idea could be to adopt a reindeer. The Cairngorm reindeer herd are the last in the UK, and by adopting one you are ensuring that they are not only thought of at Christmas. There is visiting information included in the personalised pack, and this would make a great gift for any animal lover.
If you’re feeling that you want to get in on your special girl’s gift, or if you are just generous enough to let her take a friend, there are a wide selection of trips to undertake. You could book a two-day health spa pass for her, or if you desire something more exotic, an Arabian Rasul steam vault experience. In this treatment, you are treated to four different types of mineral-rich mud and healthy salts that work to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed and your skin smooth and supple. This is a perfectly indulgent Christmas gift for her and a friend, and for you too if you wish!
However, all the women in your life might not be as close to you, for instance a work colleague or friend. For these, some of the more elaborate Christmas gifts might be a bit much, and there are some excellent present ideas for this also. A grow-it-yourself bonsai tree set is an original gift, and for the more quirky friend special comedy books such as Edward Monkton’s “The Lady and the Chocolate Book” would be an original gift idea. This brilliantly surreal book would bring a smile to anyone who reads it, and funny key rings and mugs also make a good Christmas gift in this case.
In short, buying Christmas gifts for the woman in your life is a case of just adding a little thought. In a lot of cases, the gift is not really an issue but merely the act of taking the time and thought over the gift is what is important. With that in mind, good luck men!
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
Create Tea Gift Baskets for Tea Lovers
May 21, 2009
Janet Vogel asked:
This is not only a thoughtful gift, but it is also practical. It is a great gift for teachers or grandparents or as a get well or hostess gift. You can personalize tea gift baskets for a men, women, or for couples by choosing gift items that are their favorites. For a feminine look, use delicate colors for the containers, filler materials, and place a couple of small silk flowers among the gift and food items. For a more masculine look, use a natural color container such as a wooden crate or slat type of basket and use straw or a brown shred for the filler product.
Containers could be wicker baskets, unbreakable trays with an edge or handles, or wooden crates. Add purchased shred, straw, or excelsior in the container as a filler. If you have access to a paper shredder, make your own filler from newspaper, brown paper, old maps, or sheet music. Using filler products helps in the arrangement of the gifts and food items as it will hold them in place. It also gives your gift basket a more finished look. Another option is to use a decorative tea towel or cloth napkins to line the container.
Choose gifts and food items for your gift basket based on the size and shape of your container. A shallow container works well when the gift items are not too large. If you have larger items, choose a deeper basket or wooden crate. Start the assembly process by placing the larger gifts items in the center of the container and the smaller items around the sides of the containers. Play around with this until you are satisfied with the layout. You can use double sided tape to help keep the items in place; simply tape the items together.
Selecting gifts to place in tea gift baskets is rather easy as you can purchase many items in your local supermarket or dollar-type store. Place a small teapot or a tea cup and saucer in the center and arrange tea bags, loose tea, and small packages of cookies (shortbread, wafers, biscuits, etc.) around the gifts. Small jars of jams, jellies, or honey are also appropriate items. Two or three fresh lemons mixed in will give your gift basket a lovely finished look.
If desired, place your finished gift basket in a cello bag and tie it closed at the top with curly ribbon allowing the ribbon to hang down the front of the basket. Finally, remember to include a gift card.
Corsets for all Occasions
This is not only a thoughtful gift, but it is also practical. It is a great gift for teachers or grandparents or as a get well or hostess gift. You can personalize tea gift baskets for a men, women, or for couples by choosing gift items that are their favorites. For a feminine look, use delicate colors for the containers, filler materials, and place a couple of small silk flowers among the gift and food items. For a more masculine look, use a natural color container such as a wooden crate or slat type of basket and use straw or a brown shred for the filler product.
Containers could be wicker baskets, unbreakable trays with an edge or handles, or wooden crates. Add purchased shred, straw, or excelsior in the container as a filler. If you have access to a paper shredder, make your own filler from newspaper, brown paper, old maps, or sheet music. Using filler products helps in the arrangement of the gifts and food items as it will hold them in place. It also gives your gift basket a more finished look. Another option is to use a decorative tea towel or cloth napkins to line the container.
Choose gifts and food items for your gift basket based on the size and shape of your container. A shallow container works well when the gift items are not too large. If you have larger items, choose a deeper basket or wooden crate. Start the assembly process by placing the larger gifts items in the center of the container and the smaller items around the sides of the containers. Play around with this until you are satisfied with the layout. You can use double sided tape to help keep the items in place; simply tape the items together.
Selecting gifts to place in tea gift baskets is rather easy as you can purchase many items in your local supermarket or dollar-type store. Place a small teapot or a tea cup and saucer in the center and arrange tea bags, loose tea, and small packages of cookies (shortbread, wafers, biscuits, etc.) around the gifts. Small jars of jams, jellies, or honey are also appropriate items. Two or three fresh lemons mixed in will give your gift basket a lovely finished look.
If desired, place your finished gift basket in a cello bag and tie it closed at the top with curly ribbon allowing the ribbon to hang down the front of the basket. Finally, remember to include a gift card.
Corsets for all Occasions
Fall: Back To School Gifts For The New Teacher
May 20, 2009
Kim Taylor asked:
Back to school lists are everywhere. Stores are crowded with people rushing around to prepare kids for school. September approaches quickly! Whether your child is in first grade or fifth; a simple gift for their new teacher is a great idea!
Some schools have teacher appreciation days; other teachers never receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work. There are many small easy ways to appreciate and recognize the teacher in your child’s life. Teachers spend countless hours with the children and it is nice to recognize them for all of their hard work. The small little things you can do to make them feel appreciated will mean a lot to them as they start the year off!
Many kids come home with welcome baskets or welcome bags from their new teacher to welcome them into their classroom. Why not purchase a small gift for their teacher as well!
Here are a few suggestions:
1. Cookie Gift Baskets are a nice gift. Find a gift basket that is personalized for a teacher. Gift Baskets are useful for a teacher since once the food is gone, the basket may be used for storage or other items.
2. Personalized Mugs- A great idea for the teacher who loves their coffee in the morning! Most teachers like to keep a beverage in the classroom while teaching. Be thoughtful with a personalized mug with their own name on it to display on their desk.
3. A Unique Wall Clock- One way to impress is to purchase a unique wall clock for the teacher to display on their wall for all to see and enjoy. Since everything is scheduled in school, a wall clock will be most beneficial. The clock can be used by all including your child! It will definitely be a gift the teacher can enjoy day in and day out! With many different wall clocks to choose from, find one that best suites the style of your teacher and their classroom.
4. Games for the Classroom-Many teachers like to include a game shelf in their classrooms for their students for the rainy days! For teachers of older students, a great trivia game is a wonderful idea. Purchasing a game for a teacher’s gift will also benefit your child.
5. The Essential Tote- Teachers are known for carrying tote bags. Why not choose a special tote as a gift! Giving a practical gift that is useful will be remembered. Useful, practical gifts are always appreciated. Purchasing a tote will be appreciated more if you add a personal touch. Take note on the colors around the teachers room if your not certain of the style and color of tote to purchase. It’s always nice to go with a neutral color with a monogram. Find a tote that has pockets for all of the teacher’s accessories!
Overall whatever you choose be sure to include a nice thank you card signed by your child with your gift. Finding the perfect gift online is the easiest way to appreciate that special teacher in your child’s life.
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
Back to school lists are everywhere. Stores are crowded with people rushing around to prepare kids for school. September approaches quickly! Whether your child is in first grade or fifth; a simple gift for their new teacher is a great idea!
Some schools have teacher appreciation days; other teachers never receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work. There are many small easy ways to appreciate and recognize the teacher in your child’s life. Teachers spend countless hours with the children and it is nice to recognize them for all of their hard work. The small little things you can do to make them feel appreciated will mean a lot to them as they start the year off!
Many kids come home with welcome baskets or welcome bags from their new teacher to welcome them into their classroom. Why not purchase a small gift for their teacher as well!
Here are a few suggestions:
1. Cookie Gift Baskets are a nice gift. Find a gift basket that is personalized for a teacher. Gift Baskets are useful for a teacher since once the food is gone, the basket may be used for storage or other items.
2. Personalized Mugs- A great idea for the teacher who loves their coffee in the morning! Most teachers like to keep a beverage in the classroom while teaching. Be thoughtful with a personalized mug with their own name on it to display on their desk.
3. A Unique Wall Clock- One way to impress is to purchase a unique wall clock for the teacher to display on their wall for all to see and enjoy. Since everything is scheduled in school, a wall clock will be most beneficial. The clock can be used by all including your child! It will definitely be a gift the teacher can enjoy day in and day out! With many different wall clocks to choose from, find one that best suites the style of your teacher and their classroom.
4. Games for the Classroom-Many teachers like to include a game shelf in their classrooms for their students for the rainy days! For teachers of older students, a great trivia game is a wonderful idea. Purchasing a game for a teacher’s gift will also benefit your child.
5. The Essential Tote- Teachers are known for carrying tote bags. Why not choose a special tote as a gift! Giving a practical gift that is useful will be remembered. Useful, practical gifts are always appreciated. Purchasing a tote will be appreciated more if you add a personal touch. Take note on the colors around the teachers room if your not certain of the style and color of tote to purchase. It’s always nice to go with a neutral color with a monogram. Find a tote that has pockets for all of the teacher’s accessories!
Overall whatever you choose be sure to include a nice thank you card signed by your child with your gift. Finding the perfect gift online is the easiest way to appreciate that special teacher in your child’s life.
Create a unique Chocolate Gift Basket…in minutes.
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