Dolls With A Nesting Instinct February 28, 2009

Russian nesting dolls, also known as a Matryoshka, have an iconic design and history. I won’t even try to describe it when Wikipedia has done such a nice job already. But I will share some items that you can buy if you want your own.

Matrushka Sewing Kit ($8.95) from Paper Source

Matryoshka Measuring Cups ($28) from Anthropologie

Nesting Doll Tote ($42.99) from ModCloth

Matrushka Manicure Kit from Paper Source ($8.95) or Plasticland ($12)

Organic Lavender Russian Doll Sachet ($10) from Stitchella

Set of Three Matryoshka Russian Doll Candles ($25) from Plasticland

Unpainted Nesting Dolls (E3.70-E219.09) from Matryoshka Dolls

Russian Nesting Dolls ($17.95-$99.95) from Tolstoys

Thomas Paul Folk Dessert Plate Set ($28) from Velocity Design

Russian Doll Canvas Tote ($9.99) from Journeys

Set of Three Matryoshka Russian Doll Cosmetic Bags ($34) from Plasticland

Clockwise from top center: Measuring Cups from Anthropologie; Plates from Velocity Design; Candles from Plasticland; Set from Tolstoys; Cosmetic bags from Plasticland; Unpainted set from Matryoshka Dolls; Dark canvas tote from Journeys; Sewing and Manicure kits from Paper Source and Plasticland. In center: Tote from ModCloth.

Green With Envy February 27, 2009

As winter gets comfortable on our front lawns and the days budge slightly to give us more daylight, it is bright things that we seek. What could be brighter than a  pair of .90 carat (total weight) Peridot Studs in 14kt White Gold ($75)?! Available from Ross-Simons (sign up for their e-newsletter to receive discounts or look for sale banners within the website itself).

.90 carat t.w. Peridot Stud Earrings in 14k White Gold from Ross-Simons

Battle Chilly with Chili February 26, 2009

Chili is one of the classic American one-pot meals and an all-time favorite of mine. There are so many ways to make a good batch of chili, but they all start with heat and a big pot. Calphalon can’t help with the heat, but they have one of their pots along with a ladle, dishtowel, and bag of chili mix. The Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick Chili Pot Gift Set is available from Crate & Barrel for $79.95 and from Amazon.com for $49.88. The pot is a five quart size with a lid to limit splatter. Now, you just need some corn bread and a big bowl and spoon! This would make a lovely gift for a housewarming, bridal shower, or wedding celebration. You can even go one step further and include your favorite recipe for chili.

Calphalon® Chili Set from Crate & Barrel

Change is Inevitable February 25, 2009

Just a few words for this one – Kate Spade for under $15. Yep, that’s all that needs to be said, but there’s more that wants to be said so here we go…

We all have change and particularly with European travel since the Euro and Pound have coins for their equivalent of the $1 bill. But cute change purses are not always easy to find (if you’ve found one or know of a good spot to look, please comment). Kate Spade has a Holiday Gifts Change Purse for just $13 (originally $50). One of the designs is a tartan plaid while the other makes the round zippered pocket look like an orange fruit. Quite fun actually.

Kate Spade change purses, $13 each

Posts Will Resume Tomorrow February 24, 2009

Thank you for your patience while I was on holiday. Daily posts resume tomorrow.