2017 Holiday Gift Guide

2017

Holiday Gift Guide

A Supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald

Need a gift for someone special?

We have many unique items you won’t find anywhere else in Skagit County!

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helpful, knowledgeable staff to assist you for all your prescription and medication needs.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE CREATIVE GIFTS:

The Artist...........................................

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SPORTY GIFTS: The Athlete............................................ 6 sweet GIFTS:

The Baker................................................

PRACTICAL GIFTS:

The Minimalist..................................

HARD-TO-BUY-FOR GIFTS:

The Reluctant Recipient........

8 10 14

GIFTS FOR ANIMALS: The Pets....................................... 16 GIFTS FOR FAMILY:

The Relatives..................................

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Three reasons to buy local for the holidays...... 20 GIFTS THAT GIVE HOPE:

Around The World....................

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HOLIDAY BAKING FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.................... 22

SKAGIT PUBLISHING g o s ka g i t . c o m

1215 Anderson Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 P: 360.424.3251 • F: 360.424.5300 ©Skagit Publishing, LLC 2017 All rights reserved.

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holiday gift guide | creative gifts

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The Artist

rt comes in many different forms. It’s about expressing our imagination, emotions and skill.

If you are shopping for an artist, appeal to his creative side.

Remember that all artists are poets at heart, and gifts that inspire them are just as meaningful and loved as more practical ones.

The handmade Think about gifts that will be useful and beautiful. If you are handy with a thread and needle, make your artist an apron with multiple, deep pockets in a fun print, or a pencil roll for storing their favorite pencils while traveling.

If the artist in your life creates a lot of work on a regular basis, consider helping her turn her hobby into a small business by taking the work of “set-up” off their plate.

Create an Etsy shop for her, photograph examples of her work, and if you feel inspired, create a business proposal on how she could grow her hobby into a lucrative business. Just don’t get your feelings hurt if she doesn’t follow your advice.

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Sure to Please Artists always need supplies.

This is one of the eternal problems of being an artist. You can’t go wrong with new brushes, pencils, paints or clay.

Don’t forget about supply storage. This includes a supple leather camera bag or a tartan wool laptop case.

If You’re Prepared to Splurge Because they are in the business of making beautiful things, artists tend to appreciate beautiful things. Purchase your artist an annual museum pass so he can admire the work of others and gain inspiration.

Gifting art also is fun because you can look for prints, paintings or sculptures to inspire your loved one. Purchase a print or piece of art and have it matted and framed. For a special touch, write a personal note on the matting. Even if you choose to pen your note on the back of the matting, the two of you will know it’s there.

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Premier Venue

Gift Certificates -

Skagit County Police Blotter

Compendium Journals

McIntyre Hall serves the region with outstanding events that enrich, inspire and entertain.

Each season brings a wide variety of international artists and community events.

$10 and $25 Gift Certificates are available.

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Available at Skagit PublishPublishing. $10.

Available atBooks Skagitand Publishing, Watermark The ing, Watermark Books and The Tattered Page.

Buy one, get one 50% off.

Come see all of our holiday gifts and specials!

Perfect gift for friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, teachers and clients. Give the gift of good taste!

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Celebrate the Holidays at McIntyre Hall!

Create cherished memories with family and friends at Holiday Events and Concerts throughout the year!

Happy Holidays!

Northwest Ballet Theater

WINTER CONCERT 12/14

Mount Vernon High School Choirs

HERALDING CHRISTMAS 12/15 & 17 Skagit Valley Chorale

HOLIDAY CONCERT 12/16

360.466.4411

La Conner Whitney Rd. & Hwy. 20

Fidalgo Youth Symphony

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MCINTYREHALL.ORG 360.416.7727 g o s ka g i t . c o m

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A Y

,

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O U N T

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Meatballs, Ham, Fish Balls, Fish Cakes, Poached Salmon, Komla, Pickled Herring, Red Bliss Potatoes, Rice Pudding, Salads, Lefsa, Breads, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Crisps, Scandinavian Cookies and more.

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holiday gift guide | sporty gifts

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The Athlete

hoosing to be active is more than a hobby for some. It’s a lifestyle. Support the athlete in your life by gifting him athletic essentials he can use during practice, competition or just for fun.

Here are just a few ideas for any fitness enthusiast: The Handmade Every athlete needs a great playlist. Take this as a personal challenge and put together a motivating playlist that will keep your athlete focused and inspired.

Don’t forget “cool down” music, as well as instrumentals and nature sounds for the yoga enthusiast.

If the person you care about loves being in nature, consider purchasing inexpensive trail maps and highlight great walks. This includes markers for where to stop and enjoy a great view.

This gift takes considerable time to put together but will be worth it when you see the look on your loved one’s face.

Sure to Please If you are a bit unsure of what direction to go, never underestimate the thrill of new gear. This could be a new gym bag, an eco-friendly no-spill water bottle, a yoga mat or clothing.

If you go the clothing route, consider what the item will be used for, as this will dictate fit and fabric. If you are buying for a runner, tight-fitting moisture-wicking fabrics are best, whereas you will want to find looser clothing for yoga to allow for

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movement.

If you are more of an “experience” giver, gift the athlete in your life a trial membership to a hot gym. If she already belongs to a gym, consider gifting classes that generally don’t come with a membership, such as spinning classes.

Remind your athlete to take care of his body by gifting a massage. Fitness buffs thoroughly work their muscles, so help them unwind and relax with a massage.

Most clinics and spas offer deep-tissue massages, which help relieve chronic muscle tension.

If You’re Prepared to Splurge A wearable hi-definition sports camera is perfect for the hyper-active. Not only can these cameras create awesome videos that your athlete will want to watch over and over again, but

S ka g i t Va l l e y He r a l d Ho l i d ay G i f t G u i d e

they can be invaluable for training.

This type of action-capturing camera can help her learn which mistakes she’s making and how to correct them.

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Love LaConner This Holiday Season

La Conner

Holiday Events

www.LoveLaConner.com 360.466.4778

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November 23:

Skagit Christmas at the Skagit County Historical Museum November 25 – 26: Hilltop Holiday Craft Fair November 24 – December 31:

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November 29 – December 30:

Peace on Earth

christiansonsnursery.com 15806 Best Road • Mount Vernon • 360-466-3821

December 1: December 2:

Open 9-5 Daily

Open 9-5 Daily

Turkey Trot 5k

December 9: December 15:

Skagit County HiStoriCal MuSeuM

Skagit Christmas november 24 through December 31, 2017

A Victorian Winter Holiday at the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum Festival of Tiny Trees Santa Breakfast La Conner’s Moustache Bash La Conner Community Tree Lighting Lighted Boat Parade “Jingle Belles” A Ladies Night of Shopping For additional events and up-to-date information, visit LoveLaConner.com

celebrate a Skagit Christmas!

Hilltop Holiday Craft Sale La Conner Garden Club 622 S 2nd Street Saturday, November 25, 11am to 5pm Sunday, November 26, 11am to 3pm

Bring a non-perishable food item for Sunrise Food Bank in La Conner Skagit County Historical Museum 501 S. 4th Street, La Conner at the top of the hill

360.466.3365 Open Tuesday-Sunday 11-5 www.skagitcounty.net/museum

$5 Adults / $10 Families / $4 Srs. & Kids 6-12

Members & Under 6 Years Free

this project made possible by skagit county tourism funds

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holiday gift guide | sweet gifts

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The Baker

eople who love to bake can be the most fun to shop for — or the most difficult because they tend to invest heavily in their hobby. This means they already have so much dedicated to the craft.

Follow this guide and your baker will be humming tunes as they whip up their “chef-d’oeuvre.” They might even treat you with the results.

The “Handmade” Some of the best ingredients can be made by hand.

Think vanilla-infused sugar, lavender simple syrup or rosemary olive oil — all items that are made by simply mixing a few ingredients and letting time take care of the rest. These gifts often inspire a baker to try something new.

You also can think outside of consumable items and go the sentimental route, such as putting together a recipe book of the family’s famous treats. Think grandma’s strawberry rhubarb pie, mom’s peanut brittle or Uncle Bob’s jalapeno chocolate sauce.

Even if your baker already has these recipes, he will appreciate how you’ve chosen to collect and display them.

Sure to Please

Those who love to bake genuinely appreciate consumable items. These include things they can put to good use in the kitchen.

Look for delectable salts that are the perfect finishing touch on candies and caramels. Put together a basket

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of baking goodies — fun cupcake liners, maybe a set of new frosting tips — and add in a few consumables to complete the gift.

If you’re still stuck, don’t forget the latest and greatest gadgetry to hit the culinary market. Silicone has hit the baking scene with gusto,

appearing in the form of batter spatulas, measuring cups, baking mats and cupcake pans. Silicone is nonstick and easy to clean, which makes it a baker’s dream material.

Marble cutting boards for rolling out dough, nesting bowls for easy storage or a

new apron are also sure to please.

If You’re Prepared to Splurge

Depending on how long your baker has been practicing her craft, she may not have some kitchen essen-

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tials. A high-end stand mixer in her favorite color is guaranteed to make her swoon, making it the perfect gift for someone just starting to outfit her kitchen.

Also don’t discount a great pastry cookbook. Great cookbooks are works of art.

They also can be pricey.

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Local charts & maps on glass cutting boards… End, coffee & sofa tables… Wool rugs, desks, storage beds… Mirrors, floor & table lamps… Folding screens, pot racks, coat trees… Round sofas, hand woven baskets…

Quality at affordable prices!

NW FiNe FurNishiNgs 919 Riverside Drive Mount Vernon (360) 424-8455 nwff.com

Buy two, get one FREE! Come see all of our holiday gifts and specials! Ends 12/31/17 or while supplies last.

LINCOLN THEATRE 712 S. 1st. St. Mount Vernon, WA (360) 336-8955 lincolntheatre.org

Men’s and Women’s sliPPeRs

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STOWES SHOES & CLOTHING

Tickled Pink Scarves And Accessories

Don’t know what to get the theatre-lover in your life? The Lincoln Theatre gift certificate is the easiest, most flexible way to give the gift of tickets and memberships to your local Historic Theatre!

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Hydro Flask will keep water icy cold on a hot sunny beach. And serve up a hot coffee on the chairlift ride. It will sit patiently by your camp chair with frosty cold beer while you gather wood for the fire. Or keep you hydrated on a hike: ice, water, go.

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Give the Gift of the Arts this Year!

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Cutting Boar Board

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holiday gift guide | practical gifts

The Minimalist D

ecluttering is all the rage, and the minimalist lifestyle is in.

If this sounds like the mantra of one of your closest friends or family members, there are many gifts on the shelves this Christmas season to help them on their mission.

To purchase for a minimalist, you must first ask yourself a few questions: What is the purpose of this gift? Will this person find value in this gift? These questions will help guide you.

The “Handmade”

Minimalists appreciate items that are useful. Homemade hand soaps are perfect for minimalists.

They also completely customizable.

If you’re unsure of their scent preferences, scents such as laven-

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der, rosemary, mint and honey vanilla are always popular.

Are you a whiz in the kitchen?

Share your talents by gifting your famous spicy salsas, zesty tomato sauce or raspberry preserves.

Anything that can be jarred and enjoyed over time is always a crowd-pleaser — and can also be arranged nicely in a gift basket.

to check with your local establishments.

The same goes for magazine subscriptions. Find a local publication that puts out information about which your gift recipient is passionate. The minimalist on your list can enjoy them when they come in and pop them in the recycling bin when they’re done.

Sure to Please

If You’re Prepared to Splurge

Subscription boxes make a great gift for those with a minimalist mindset. Not only are these the gifts that “keep on giving,” but they are often filled with creative (and consumable) goodies.

Not to mention there is a subscription box for every taste and budget, from beauty products to wine to food. With enough research, you are sure to find the perfect fit. Many downtown businesses are getting in on the act of subscription boxes, so don’t forget

Why not gift an experience, such as tickets to a sporting event or a family pass to the city museum? Experiences help strengthen the bonds between people — and don’t clutter up the cupboards.

Whether you intend to be part of the experience (concert tickets with your best friend) or not (a family zoo pass for your brother and his kids to enjoy), you’ll be gifting memories that last for years to come.

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Shoppes at Burlington

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theoutletshoppesatburlington.com

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Shopping/Gifts Calico Creations Cinderella’s Secret Easton’s Books elSage Designs Forté Chocolates Homeward Bound Kids Stuff Lyon’s Furniture Miss May’s Creative Learning Mortar & Pestle Apothecary Mount Vernon Red Apple Perry & Carlson Art Inspired Goods Perry and Carlson Gallery Petals By Linda Skagit Valley Food Co-op Sprouts Children’s Clothing Stamp and Coin Place Tri-Dee Arts Wildfibers Work Outfitters

Services Alchemika Salon Awakening Therapeutic Massage Bare Boutique Blaster Battles Calm Water Massage The Chique Boutique Salon The Cottage Salon Eye Candy Fred Lee’s Hairstyling

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Genesis Salon Good Vibes Body Art Hair & Body Mechanix Hair Quarters House of Style Boutique & Salon The Inkwell Tattoo Studio Ken’s Hairstyling Knockout Fades Barbershop The Lash Studio Mount Vernon Shoe Repair Mountain Water Massage New View Wellness Ode to Learning Pacific NW Martial Arts Academy Per Dona Salon Pure Salon & Spa RiverCity Screenprinting Wise Owl Clock Repair

Dining & Culture The Historic Lincoln Theatre C·Square & Third Street Café Calle Tacos Tequila Calico Cupboard Draft Pic’s Sports Bar & Grille Empire Ale House Il Granaio Italian Restaurant The Lunchbox Diner Mount Vernon Café Old Towne Grainery Tea Room Pacioni’s Italian Restaurant The Porterhouse Pub

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Rachawadee Thai Café Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar Shambala Ancient Grains Bakery Shambala Bistro Skagit River Brewery Skagit Valley Food Co-op Taste of India Thai House Restaurant The Upcountry Trumpeter Public House Valley Shine Distillery

Antiques & Collectibles Babe Rainbow Antiques Dilly Dally Antiques Lost in the Groove Old Movie House Antiques Red Door Antique Mall Re-Feather Your Nest

Boutique Clothing Embellish House of Style Boutique & Salon Ryann Michele & Co. Skagit Running Company The Loft Salon & Boutique

Jewelry PAVÉ Jewelry & Design Strauss Jewelers

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Shop Local for the Holidays in Historic Downtown Mount Vernon

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401 South First • Downtown Mount Vernon www.straussjewelers.com • 360-336-2843

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Naledi • Jewels by Star • Steven Kretchmer Diamonds & Custom Design

312 S First St., Downtown Mount Vernon 360.336.5598 • Open Mon-Fri 9-6pm, Sat 9-5pm

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Downtown Downtown Mount MountVernon Vernon wishes wishes you you a a

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holiday gift guide | hard-to-buy-for gifts

The Reluctant Recipient T

here are always hard-to-shop-for people on our holiday or birthday lists, but the most difficult are the people who want nothing.

Maybe all the kids are grown and it seems superfluous to exchange gifts. Maybe this person in your life is down-sizing and making a concerted effort to reduce their belongings.

What do you get someone who doesn’t want anything? Consider the following suggestions.

The “Handmade” The people you care about mean more to you than any object, and it probably wouldn’t be a stretch to say they feel the same about you. Help a friend clean out his gutters or offer to babysit your cousins for your aunt and uncle.

Your time can also be gifted outside of chores. Spend the day with your grandmother. Look through family albums. Go to the salon — whatever you both enjoy. Oftentimes, the best present is presence.

Sure to Please Think of gifts that give back. With so many companies prioritizing sustainability and philanthropy, it is easier than ever to choose a gift that is both useful and beautiful, as well as offers a nod to social good.

Some items promise to donate a portion of the sale proceeds to a noteworthy cause, while others provide an outlet for artisans in struggling countries to have stability and an income through their craft. You also can make a donation to a cause the recipient cares about in their name. With these gifts, everybody wins.

If You’re Prepared to Splurge Give the gift of memory. Companies such as Ancestry and 23andMe offer new ways for people to experience their ancestry — DNA testing. These services will break down your global ancestry and create a complete report of your history.

Genealogy kits make a great gift for those who think they want nothing because you are bypassing physical objects and gifting them knowledge. Knowing where we come from is a quest many of us are constantly on — and help along the way is always welcome.

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Christmas Parade

Tea Forte

Cyber Monday Deals!

Holiday Fare

$10 gets you $20!

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Cyber Monday Deals!

Museum Store

Downtown Mount Vernon Open Daily (360) 542-5020 www.csquare.coop Lunch – Dinner – Weekend Brunch

Naledi Collection

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Mount Vernon Carpet One Floor & Home

$10 gets you $20!

SKAGIT COUNTY

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Serving this Community since 1978, working to “enhance the lives of others… Our customers, employees, business partners, and our community as a whole.”

You get our best pricing up front for flooring, cabinets, countertops, paint and more!

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Serving the community since 1986 with uncompromised service.

Locally Owned by people who care and treat you just like family.

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HISTORICAL MUSEUM 501 S. 4th St., La Conner At the top of the hill (360) 466-3365 skagitcounty.net/museum

Scan with your device and download Naledi RingFinder

400 W Fir Street Mount Vernon, WA 98273 800-735-7193/360-336-6533 mvcarpetone.com info@mvcarpetone.com

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Featuring books by local authors and handcrafted items by local artists.

Shop local! Celebrate Skagit History.

Enjoy Italian food as it was meant to be — fresh. La Terrazza Authentic Italian Cuisine offers family-friendly casual dining with a beautiful waterfront patio. Make sure to ask about daily seafood special, which ranges from lobster ravioli to halibut. goskagit.com/deals for details November 27

Empire Ale House 314 W Gates St. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (360) 336-9944

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Microbrew Ale House with 17 Rotating Taps. Full service restaurant, featuring steaks, seafood, pasta and pub fare. Join us for happy hour 3-6pm. goskagit.com/deals for details November 27

401 S. First Street Downtown Mount Vernon (360) 336-2843 naledicollection.com

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HOMETOWN PHARMACY & GIFT SHOP

C•SQUARE & ThiRd STREET CAfE 1689910

Dec. 3, 2017, 5-7 p.m.

Old-Fashioned Holiday Parade starts at 5 p.m. on 1st St. in downtown Mount Vernon, followed by Tree-Lighting at 1st & Division – NEW Location!

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Spend $35 before tax on Tea Forte products and receive one can of loose leaf tea FREE. Come see all of our holiday gifts and specials! Ends 12/31/17 or while supplies last.

Gathering around the meal table with friends and family is one of the most special ways to connect and catch up during the holiday season. Third Street Cafe is a cozy place to create memories, with generous portions of local food and a unique wine list. Give the gift of food with made-from-scratch cookies & candies from C•SQUARE!

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holiday gift guide | gifts for animals

O

The Pets

ur pets deserve to feel some love in the form of a special treat, as well. These are often the members of our family that greet us first in the morning and when we come home for the day.

They pick us up when we feel down and provide us company and someone to care for when we need it most.

The “Handmade” Outfit your canine with the outerwear they will need to brave your climate. This could be handmade sweaters, vests or thermal jackets — even little booties to protect paws from cold, sharp ice.

New toys are always a winner for keeping your pup entertained. Check in with your local pet shop to choose toys that are the appropriate size and material for your dog’s age and (perhaps destructive) nature. New bedding is also sure to please your pup. Add a handmade touch by placing extra padding in their bed for maximum comfort.

Sure to Please Consider upgrading your cat’s pet carrier. Carriers that are made of soft nylon frequently have 360-degree mesh siding, allowing your cat to see out of all sides.

This helps keep them calm when traveling to high-stress locations, including the vet.

If your cat’s collar is looking a little too loved, check out the most modern styles and prints, including those made of reflective material

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and “anti-stink” material.

That’s right, anti-stink.

Check it out.

Caged creatures Don’t forget to spread the love to your caged creatures, including hamsters, reptiles, birds or fish. New toys or accessories are sure to delight any bird or hamster

and fish like to be stimulated by new tank decor.

Don’t forget to pamper your reptile friends with new treats or an upgraded warming lamp.

If You’re Prepared to Splurge We’re not talking about

splurging in terms of money, rather in terms of your heart. There are thousands of animals that don’t have owners to dote on them.

Contact local shelters and see what they need.

Towels, treats and toys are often always needed. Or give your time! Shelters are

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always looking for volunteers to clean kennels, take dogs for walks and give the animals baths. If you are prepared and have given considerable thought to the commitment a pet requires, consider adopting a pet and give them the best gift of all: their forever home.

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Shop, Dine & Celebrate in

Stanwood It’s Christmas at the

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holiday gift guide | gifts for family

R

The Relatives

elatives can be tricky to shop for, especially if you’re not that familiar with their tastes. Focusing on their home is a great opportunity to give a gift that doesn’t feel generic while at the same time doesn’t require deep knowledge of their tastes.

Show relatives that you care with a gift that will make their living space more comfortable and beautiful.

This list is sure to work for the pickiest of relatives.

The “Handmade” Personalized stationery is thoughtful, gender neutral and easy to design yourself!

You can take this in any direction — notecards with matching envelopes, fullsize stationery paper or notepads for grocery lists.

If you feel ambitious, allow your DIY prowess to take the lead and create a piece of art, a tufted pin board for the kitchen or a sassy sign for the laundry room. Pinterest is a great social media tool for these types of projects and you are sure to find the perfect match for both your relatives home and your skill level!

Sure to Please Items for entertaining are always appreciated and allow you to offer a bit of personality with your gift.

Cheese stones are great for cheese, but are perfect for serving so many different things.

Create a smart little tag to tie around the end, reminding your relatives to pop the

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stone in the freezer before serving something cold, or get it nice and toasty in the oven for more savory snacks.

Most stone are both incredibly durable and dishwashersafe.

If You’re Prepared to Splurge While it may not seem like a splurge on the surface, candles are a perfect gift for just about everyone. Candles make a room smell fresh and make a home feel cozy. They

are also not an item people seem to splurge on often because it feels either wasteful or too indulgent.

Paddywax Apothecary candles are downright decadent in their colored glass vessels and scents like blue

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sage and lavender, and verbena and eucalyptus. So spoil your relatives with a luxury candle. Bonus? The jars are so beautiful, they will definitely get reused.

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CyberMonday Deals!

Hallmark!

Small Business Saturday

Black Friday Holiday Savings

STUFFED WITH HOLIDAY SAVINGS

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$5 gets you $10!

Hallmark is in Skagit County!

Keepsake ornaments, wrap, cards & gifts galore!

Open M-F 9:30am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm.

Makers CoMpounding pHarMaCy & HaLLMark

Mountvernondowntown.org (360) 336-3801 dep.mvda@gmail.com

839 S. Burlington Blvd.

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1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (360) 424-1900 goskagit.com/locations

KEEP THE CHEER HERE

Highest Quality • Local Shrimp

• Dungeness Crab • Oysters for Every Taste • Fresh Fish • Clams • Mussels • Shrimp • Scallops • Smoked Fish

SKAGIT VALLEY HERALD

Shop at your favorite local stores and win! Nov 20th - Dec 24th

EBT Accepted

615 South 2nd Street, Mount Vernon WA 98273

360-399-7258 Mon-Fri 10-5 & Sat 10-2

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Pre-order Holiday Flowers & shop unique Gifts for the season

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and Gift 839 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.757.6677 • www.makerscompounding.com

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MOUNT VERNON DOWNTOWN

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Nov. 25, 2017 Support the local brick & mortar Businesses that make your community great.

Shop Local First!

Cravings

1300 S. 2nd St. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 421-5297 www.facebook.com/ CravingsBakeryCafe

Don’t miss out on your Thanksgiving Day Skagit Valley Herald Black Friday ads!

STUFFED with Holiday SAVINGS! ONLY $2.50!

Find one at a convenience store near you at goskagit.com/locations.

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Are you “craving” a home cooked nosh? We’ve got you covered. $5 gets you $10 for lunch. goskagit.com/deals for details November 27

Three reasons to buy local for the holidays You’ve finally finished drawing up your Christmas gift list and you just know it’s going to make all your loved ones happy. You also have to keep working on that endless shopping list for the various holiday gatherings you have to prepare for. But wait; don’t jump into your car just yet. Have you thought about shopping locally? It’s a surefire way to make even more people happy. Not convinced? Here are three good reasons to buy local.

1

. Pamper your taste buds

Nothing beats buying locally if you want to serve your guests the ultimate in delicious food.

Locally-sourced food products are fresher, more nutritious and tastier. And they aren’t as likely to be treated with preservatives to make them last longer or stay fresher looking. Vegetables, cheeses, meats, beers and wines are just a few examples of things you can buy locally during the holiday season.

They’ll help you make your holiday meals even more delicious than usual.

And how about buying local foods as gifts for your favorite foodies? It’s a great idea that will give you the opportunity to make some beautiful and delicious discoveries.

2

. Support the local economy

Are you fond of your area? When you buy local it helps your community become more dynamic.

That’s because when you spend your money close to home, you’re helping the local economy grow and open up more jobs for the people you know.

Promoting economic activity in your region also helps improve the quality of life for workers.

You’re encouraging local producers, entrepreneurs and merchants when you do your holiday

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shopping at the neighborhood clothing store or at the artisanal butcher shop. You’re strengthening the trust between producers and consumers and bolstering your sense of belonging to your community.

What more could you ask for at holiday time, which is an occasion for sharing and love?

3

. Give more eco-friendly gifts

Choosing local products also means reducing the distance between the producer (or the merchant) and the consumer. This, in turn, helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution related to the transportation of goods.

And that’s beside the fact that transporting products across thousands of miles generally requires more packaging. In short, buying

local is an environmentally-friendly gesture.

Buying locally is also more convenient.

Why go to the big shopping center located outside of town when your own neighborhood is full of all kinds of stores and businesses? You’re more likely to find unique gifts, and you won’t have to go as far if you need to exchange them later on. On top of all that, you’ll save on gas and produce less pollution. The only person who could do it any better is Santa Claus.

Happy Holidays!

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Give the Gift of News!

Can’t think of what to get someone for the holidays? Gift them a newspaper subscription so they can be informed all year round!

Call us today to find out about our special holiday guide rate, but hurry this deal will go fast! *special deal only available to new subscribers.

SKAGIT VALLEY HERALD 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (360) 542.2212 goskagit.com/subscribe

Use this Cyber Monday Deal to pair any beverage and food items from our lunch or dinner menu! Oh…how good is our coffee, you ask? Let’s just say that our dedication to espresso perfection has been award winning. goskagit.com/deals for details November 27

holiday gift guide | Gifts That Give Hope

H

ope is a gift on every child’s wish list, especially those in parts of the world ravaged by natural disasters and poverty. Giving hope lets these children know that the world hasn’t forgotten them.

From UNICEF Market products to items available from partners, UNICEF USA is making it possible to give gifts that make a difference and deliver the greatest gift of all: hope.

1130 Burlington Blvd.

Burlington, WA 98233 360.707.2683 northcovecoffee.com

Kid-friendly inspiration Motivate kids, inspire philanthropy and help save the lives of malnourished children around the world with the Star Wars: Force for Change UNICEF Kid Power Band. Every movement made while wearing the activity band adds up to points that unlock lifesaving nutrition, which is sent to malnourished children around the world. Bands are available at Target or unicefkidpower.org.

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640 Highway 20, Sedro-Woolley (360) 503-1676

GIVE the GIFT of ISLAND APPAREL

Goods from around the globe From jewelry to accessories to home decor, each item purchased through the UNICEF Market benefits programs that provide children with basic necessities such as nutrition, medicine, education, clean water and more. The UNICEF Market, market.unicefusa.org, is a partnership between UNICEF USA and Novica that offers unique items such as multicolored snowman ornaments made in India and an artisan leather tray handmade in Peru.

Inspired giving Another option is UNICEF Inspired Gifts, which are lifesaving items that can be purchased in honor of a loved one and go directly to help children in need around the world. Examples include hygiene kits, mosquito nets and winter survival packs. Find more options at inspiredgifts.org.

Buy one, get one 50% off.

Come see all of our holiday gifts and specials! Ends 12/31/17 or while supplies last.

HOMETOWN PHARMACY & GIFT SHOP

North Cove Coffee 1688970

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Downtown Mount Vernon Store: (360) 336-9777 Deli: (360) 336-3886 C•SQUARE: (360) 542-5020 www.skagitfoodcoop.com www.csquare.coop

$5 gets you $10!

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Skagit Valley Food Co-op

POCKET POSH GAMES

Come shop Island Styles!

We carry a wide selection of unique and affordable women’s casual fashions!

714 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA 98221

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• Jackets & Scarves • Women’s Apparel • Purses & Accessories • Shoes & Sandals • Jewelry • Scrubs

360-293-3211 www.facebook.com/nwislandstyles

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Are you looking for the perfect gift? Skagit Valley Food Co-op’s 2nd Floor is home to a gift shop!

Our Mercantile is full of toys, stocking stuffers, handmade jewelry, local goods, and gift wrap. Find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.

Cyber Monday Deals!

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Mercantile

Holiday Baking for Family and Friends A

holiday season filled with gatherings calls for simple recipes that make baking for family and friends easy and enjoyable.

Traditions are often enjoyed more around the holidays and some classic flavors are musthaves for seasonal parties and dinners. Individually portioned desserts are ideal for entertaining, and these smooth, creamy cheesecakes with vivid holiday color are a perfect single serving that is sure to brighten any dessert table. Or put a festive twist on apple pie with a cinnamon roll-inspired crust.

Each of these desserts features quick and easy preparation using canned pie fillings for great tasting desserts every time. An array of popular flavors like apple, blueberry, cherry and strawberry make it possible to prepare your favorite holiday desserts in minutes.

(Family Features)

Cinnamon Apple Pie

Mini Marbled Cherry Cheesecakes 18 2 1/3 2 1 1

chocolate cookies with white filling packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened cup sugar eggs teaspoon vanilla can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling, divided

Heat oven to 350 F. Line muffin tins with 18 paper liners.

Place one chocolate cookie in bottom of each paper liner.

In mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla until light and fluffy. Fold in half of fruit filling. Fill each muffin liner about threefourths full with mixture.

Bake 20-25 minutes, or until done. Cool. Top each cheesecake with spoonful of remaining fruit filling.

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1 1 2 2 1 1 1 1/2 1/4 1/4 2

refrigerated pie crust tablespoon butter, melted teaspoons ground cinnamon cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling stick (8 tablespoons) butter, softened cup flour cup light brown sugar cup powdered sugar, plus additional (optional) teaspoon vanilla teaspoon cinnamon teaspoons milk, plus additional (optional)

Heat oven to 400 F. On lightly floured surface, unroll pie crust. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with cinnamon. Roll up tightly and slice into 1/2-inch rounds, like miniature cinnamon rolls.

Press miniature cinnamon rolls evenly into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate, making sure there are no spaces between rolls. Pour fruit filling on top of crust.

In large bowl, using pastry blender, combine stick of butter, flour and brown sugar, until crumbly. Sprinkle over apple filling.

Bake pie until top and crust are golden brown and filling is bubbling, about 40-45 minutes (cover top and crust with foil, if necessary, to prevent from getting too dark). Remove from oven and allow to cool.

In small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and milk to form icing. Add more sugar or milk, if necessary, to reach desired consistency. Drizzle icing over cooled pie.

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for the kids of Skagit County

The Skagit Valley Herald CHriStmaS Fund is a non-profit, charitable organization that has provided toys, books and holiday meals to needy children and their families in Skagit County for over 60 years. Every donation is tax deductible. To donate, volunteer, or sponsor a family, visit goskagit.com/xmasfund.

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it’S time For joy • it’S time For toyS • it’S time For giVing

CHriStmaS Fund

Thank you for your tax deductible donation to The Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund: ❏ cash

❏ check#_________________ ❏ credit card (see below)

I would like to donate $____________.______ dollars.

Name____________________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________________ Telephone number__________________________Email:__________________________________ Is this donation given anonymously?

❏ YES

❏ NO

If not, may we publish your name (in thanks) in the newspaper? ❏ YES

❏ NO

Name(s) to publish:_________________________________________________________________ Or, you may wish to give your donation in memoriam; if so, name to publish In memory of:_____________________________________________________________________ Credit Card#______________-_______________-_______________-______________

360.419.7261 goskagit.com/xmasfund christmasfund@skagitpublishing.com

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Amount to charge card $_____________. _______ Exp. Date____________CVV Code _________ Mail to (and checks payable to): The SVH Christmas Fund • 1215 Anderson Road • Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund is a 501(c)3 status non-profit organization (Tax ID 91-1304740)

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From our home to yours!

Thank you for your loyalty in supporting small business in your community!

Struggling to find the perfect Christmas gift for someone you love?

Give the gift of new interior finishes!

336-6533 / 800-735-7193 www.mvcarpetone.com Lic #MTVERCC044DK

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Mount Vernon Carpet One Floor & Home 400 West Fir Street Mount Vernon