Let the Madness Begin

I swear I'm not trying to push the season but since I no longer have the luxury of letting things to until the 11th hour, I'm starting my holiday prep now. I'll still be scrambling at the end but maybe a bit less so.

Each week from now until the end of the year I'm going to try to do one post with a favorite online and local resource for holiday (and other) gift-giving goodness. Starting now.

Etsy - who doesn't love Etsy? I'm obsessed, and lately its been my go-to resource for kiddie birthday presents, especially for the under 6 set. Two favorites are custom superhero capes and fabulous felt birthday / dress up crowns. Both around $20 or under. Sarahdesigns makes the best crowns and is so lovely to work with. Two Little Bluebirds is another favorite for more embellished, flowery crowns. For the capes, I love Crafty Mama , she offers a ton of designs and has very fast shipping. All three will customize their creations to your specs. It doesn't get much better than that.

For local goodness, its the Open Door Bookstore in downtown Schenectady. This is where the holidays start for me. Holiday ornaments and decorations? Check. Toys (that aren't plastic)? Check. Jewelry and bags? Check check. Oh, and books? Yeah, they've got those too. So worth a visit from anywhere in the area... there's a reason that they've been alive and kicking in downtown Schenectady for well over 30 years.

Coming up next... sparkly holiday party wear. Hooray!!!!