OVER THE MOUNTAIN
J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY NOVEMBER 17, 2011
We Gather Together It’s Time for Thanksgiving
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Mason, known as the “Tornado Dog,” will be honored at Greater Birmingham Humane Society Auxiliary’s Community Awards Luncheon. See About Town, page 4.
Journal photo by John Pope
hanksgiving, as the saying goes, isn’t just a noun but a verb. That’s true in our Over the Mountain communities, where people are celebrating the day in meaningful ways. In our photos, top to bottom: Volunteers open their hearts by serving others at the Jimmie Hale Mission. Page 12 The Homewood High band will strike a joyful note when it marches in the Macy’s Parade. Page 14 And Gwin Elementary’s Colonial Day helps kids appreciate our country’s early days. Page 47
The Junior League of Birmingham will host The Market Nov. 16-19 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. See About Town, page 6. 30 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2011
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
2011 GIFT GUIDE
������������������ ‘Tis the season! Our advertisers will help you find the perfect present for everyone on your list. Our annual holiday gift guide has great gift ideas for that someone special, the home, holidays and of course toys. ���������������
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���� Delight the bird lovers on your list with this Cloud Hummingbird Feeder. It’s handblown from recycled glass and beautifully designed with superior functionality. $48. Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery, 328-1000
This hand-painted platter with layered holiday icons is adorable with a personalization. Serve treats for Santa or display it for some holiday cheer. $40.95. Blue Willow, 968-0909
Make sure she’s in style this holiday season with a Beim Leather Hobo Bag. $323. Chick-a-dees 969-3138 She’ll look stunning in her Mia Lara Jewelry. This jewelry is contemporary yet timeless. The pieces are fresh, versatile and playful starting at $150. A’Mano, 871-9093
The idea is 3,000 years old, but the Big Green Egg is all the rage now! It’s the perfect smoker, grill and barbecue for the cook on your list. Medium Egg, $649 (assembly and nest extra). AllSouth Appliance, 942-0408 She will love you for this Scott Kay sterling cuff bracelet, with or without diamonds in various gemstones. It’s the kind of accent that never goes out of style. $1,075-$1,870. Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers, 8717060
Journal photo by John Pope
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Looking for something for the wine lover in your life? These antique hand-tooled leather decanters are beautiful and useful. Prices start at $10. Mulberry Heights Antiques, 870-1300 Lend an earthy charm to décor with rich color and artistic expression with this Gaither pottery rooster handcrafted in Northern Alabama. $260 Rusty Dime 995-4005
Give a gift of art with one-of-a-kind handmade clay pieces by CHI Carolyn Ingram. They come in all different sizes and designs. The “Robbie” Ado-de Bird is just one of the pieces to choose from that will bring smiles and happiness into your home. $79-$175. Art Alley 879-1105
Fontanini Nativity Sets are the perfect keepsake for your family’s holiday decorating. Pieces start at $18 and go up to $275 for a full nativity set. Briarcliff Shop, 870-8110 These are the real deal. Enjoy the unmistakable jingle that only authentic cast brass sleigh bells can give. $395. Noordermeer Antiques, 870-1161
Local artist Betty Freeman captures the spirit of the season with this beautiful painting of poinsettias that will remain in bloom for many holidays to come. 12x12 painting, acrylic on canvas. Arceneaux Gallery. 802-5800
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Want a creative way of teaching children about the joy of giving to others? The Christmas Angel will do just that. It includes the plush Christmas Angel, the storybook and a pouch of golden dust $29.99. Kidz Closet & More, 979-0707
This doll is almost as cute as she is, and what little girl doesn’t want a Karito doll? She’s fashion forward in Sophia clothing that fits the popular American Girl doll, as well. There’s also lots of clothing and accessories to choose from. A Tiny Kingdom Just like Fido, he can be sweet and adorable or he can get growling mad. Kids will crack up Christmas Morning with Beware of the Dog and his many moods. $19.99. Snoozy’s Kids
On trend for girls this year are socks with toes. Homewood Toy and Hobby has a set of three mismatched socks (yes, that’s the thing) for $13.99. During the holidays, bop around in the Christmas socks; one pair is $5.50. Homewood Toy & Hobby 879-3986
INSIDE: Our Annual Holiday Gift Guide plus expert advice on what toys to get this year. Page 28