Shop Locally for Mom

Alright I've been slacking the last couple of days, but while I wasn't posting, I was shopping. Trying to find some of the best local stuff for Mom. Here are a few that I have found so far. Many more to come....

For the Mom with a sweet tooth

Mint Chocolate Cookies by Cutie Cake Patisserie (and they are gluten free!)

For a new Mom

Custom wipe case from Polka Tods

For the Mom who love baubles Necklace from Just Peachy

For the Mom with a Dark Side

Nevermore Apron by Tada Boutique

For the Stylish Mommy

Clutch by Laughing Mouse

FREE Colorfly Card for Everyone!

Jennifer DeDenato over at Colorfly Studio, is dishing out free goodies for you! Everyone who posts a comment below will receive 1 Follow In The Direction Of Your Dreams (5 x 6.5 in.) card! All of her original creations are made of exquisite paper cut outs. Talk about a steady hand! Go check out her etsy shop, and let me know which piece is your favorite!

*comment by April 6th, 2009 to receive your free card

Unconditional Love

How do you say I love you to the one who is always there for you, listens to you, cheers you up, and licks your feet? Here are some ideas from Joy Butler on how to tell your furry friends that you love them.

• Spa treatment-grooming, mani/pedi
• New bed
• New food dish
• Treats..of course
• Jewelry-collar charms
• Car ride which ends with a dog park or trip to the pet store
• Home massage to soft, soothing music (my personal favorite)
• New outfit/accessory - We can't stop gushing over this cerise pink In Bloom Puppy Neck Warmer by Mulberry Street (pictured above). Talk about having the the hottest dog in Buffalo Bayou Park!

Buy Local for Vday!

In my world, Valentine's Day isn't only for couples. I remember looking forward to Valentine's Day because my parents always bought me chocolates and a couple of little gifts, usually jewelry. Some might say I was spoiled (okay so I was), but like so many young girls, I never worried about having a boyfriend for that one stupid day. Whether you are buying for Mom, sister, daughter or significant other, there are plenty of Houston made gifts available. Here are a few, and many more to come!

From top to bottom: The Laughing Mouse, Green Erica, Cherdak and Pocket and Spark

Valentine's Day Gifts

I'm so excited because I just figured out what I want to buy myself for Valentine's Day. One of Mia Sophia's ultra-feminine, romantic stained glass masterpieces. She creates so many beauties, I can't decide which I like the best? Check out her etsy site, and let me know which is your favorite. I'm leaning toward this little swallow...

Atty Myer

A new year always seems to bring about new talent. While hunting for a new clutch, I came across these perfect little handmade bags by Atty Myer. At only $24 a piece, I highly suggest stocking up on every style.

Oh Deer...so much wrapping!

Instead of buying 20 different colors/patterns of wrapping paper this year like I normally do (with at least 30 different types of ribbon), I decided to pare down and simplify. After aimlessly wandering Michaels for 20 minutes, I bought:

• white craft paper
• brown craft paper
• raffia -just plain old naturally colored raffia

Still a little bit plain for my taste, so I bought some totally adorable gift tags from Dallas and VOILA...presents that look like they came out of a magazine. My friends and family are out of luck because I'm thinking about keeping them. I don't want the gifts inside, I just want to save them to decorate my house next year.

Etsy Treasury

Okay, so just for funzies, I created an Etsy treasury called "Hot in Houston". Not the most creative name, but c'mon I was in a hurry. It is made up of some of my favorite pieces created by our wondeful local artists. Go see the treasury and tell me which one is your favorite!

A Berry Merry Christmas

It isn't too late to get those holiday cards out to all of your favorite friends. Take advantage of A Punkin Card Company's fantastic holiday sale. Save 40% off your entire etsy order when you use the promo code "holiday40" in the message to seller and receive a refund through Paypal. Here are some of her beauties...

One Eyed,One Horned, Crocheted People Eater

This little creature put me in my happy place today. Otis the one eyed monster is just one of the many wonderfully kooky creations by Susan at Barking Dog Designs. If you need a one-of-a-kind gift for a little one this holiday season, be sure to visit her Etsy page and support our local artisans!