Gifts for the ECO-FRIENDLY
Interested in making a difference with your holiday gift giving while holding true to your conviction to value the earth’s resources? At Ten Thousand Villages in Roosevelt Court (also with a pop-up shop inside St. James Espresso in Kirkland), you will find fairly traded, handcrafted gifts, home décor and jewelry for everyone on your shopping list. In addition, you’ll be delighted to find a wide variety of stylish and beautiful creations crafted from recycled materials, each with a story of the maker who crafted it. As a fair trade retailer, Ten Thousand Villages commitment to environmental stewardship is evident, especially in the area of eco-friendly products.
To learn more about Ten Thousand Villages, stop into one of their stores located at Roosevelt Court, 6417 Roosevelt Way NE, Suite 101, Seattle or inside St. James Espresso, 355 Kirkland Avenue, Kirkland. Or, visit www.tenthousandvillages.com/seattle. Join the conversation: #livelifefair
Here are a few of their customer favorites:
w Sari and Denim Messenger Bag: Get ready for adventure. Durable denim is decorated with brightly colored sari fabric. The cross-body strap keeps your hands free to shop, snack or carry treasures from your travels. And because no two recycled saris are ever entirely alike, each messenger bag is one of a kind. Handcrafted in Bangladesh.
w Good News Tree Ornament: Good news of the season, in recycled newsprint. An earthfriendly tree ornament handcrafted by artisans of the Women’s Multipurpose Cooperative in Baguio City, Philippines. The women turn old newsprint into new products by wrapping the paper into coils to make spiraled building blocks. These are joined with thread and glue, and starched for durability and finish.
w Earth Blossom Wine Charm: These ecofriendly wine charms are fun and colorful enough to suit the spirit of outdoor summer entertaining. Crafted from recycled cans, a set of four comes in a gift-ready box. Handcrafted in Kenya.
w Golden Mosaic Candleholder: Candle light will flicker softly through a mosaic of iridescent golden glass. Artisans in Moradabad, India craft this beautiful candleholder from recycled glass chips taken from old bottles and other glass items. They clean and color the glass before crafting the candleholder.
w Cut Metal Wall Art: Christmas is a time for all nations to celebrate peace. Peace is depicted in French, Spanish and English in these beautiful cut metal wall hangings from Haiti. The tradition of Haitian cut metal art began in the early 1930s with Georges Liataud’s imaginative cemetery crosses crafted from recycled metal. Artisans use discarded 55-gallon drums to create these amazing works of art. They cut open the drums, hammer them flat, and then mark designs on the black metal with chalk. The design is then carved and finished using chisels and other simple hand tools. Sold separately.
w Earth Angel Pin: Recycled newspapers are coiled and folded to create this eco-friendly angel pin. Think of her as a guardian for both you and the earth. From the artisans of Highland Women’s Multipurpose Coop, creating opportunities for women in impoverished areas of Baguio City.
w Beads of Accra Necklace: Dan Tey Doku and his wife Janet Teye established the Dan Beaded Handicraft workshop in DumasiKrobo, Ghana in 1989. Today, they still celebrate Ghanaian heritage through the traditional craft of bead-making. Using only simple molds and wood-burning furnaces, Dan creates colorful beads from recycled glass for use in jewelry and other items.
Gifts for the LITTLE ONES
A Well-Played Childhood
By Allen Rickert, Owner of Top Ten Toys
As we approach the holidays we are once again being bombarded by the hunt for the latest trendy toys. As a parent and owner of Seattle’s Top Ten Toys, I am not immune to the pressure.
My eldest son clearly wants the newest Lego toy; the one with the newest movie character and vehicle. I suggest, “Is there something that would be useful for playing sports or for your next camping trip?” My hope is to support his interest in healthy outdoor activities. It so happens that these suggestions appeal to my youngest son who, to my delight, immediately switches his focus from some really-annoying toy to a new football.
I will probably give in and give a present to each son from one of their first choices. But then, my inner wise parent kicks in. I am forced to ask myself, “What play items would actually be good for them?” My solution: I’ll make those my second choice of gifts for them.
In the rush to constantly buy the “new-
est” toys, there is a danger of missing out and not considering the classic toys that afford aspects of play that actually promote elements of growth and child development. To consider these aspects of play can be emotionally risky for a parent. Sure you loved a certain toy when you were a child but your child hasn’t asked for it. You’re concerned they may not like it. However, I believe we have a duty to expose children to things they may not like; just the way we do with food at the table.
So what are some of the classic toys to consider for a well-played childhood?
For babies I’d start with an Oball. An Oball is bold in color, easy-to-grasp, and tactilely intriguing. Toddlers need to play with shape-sorting toys. Later, when they are around two and one-half to three, they should begin playing with big floor puzzles; these develop spatial relationship skills that will later become useful in reading.
Children enjoy role-playing. They explore different ways to be social. They like arranging things in their world. These activities are often done with doll houses,
wood trains, and many of the Playmobil sets.
Young boys and girls delight in pretending to be engaged in food preparation or serving tea; we can only hope these activities help with manners. Both genders ought to be exposed to arts and crafts, science kits and construction kits. A good book is a nice present too.
As they get older, chess remains a worthy experience. In playing Monopoly, we try to win; we also learn that not everyone wins. Puzzles depicting geography teach children about other states or countries; as parents, we won’t be able to resist saying, “That’s
where your Uncle lives!”
A couple of days ago, on the way home from school, my youngest starts to ask me about another toy he’s heard of. I brace myself to hear a wish for a toy that I’d rather not buy him, but, I’m surprised. He’s asking for Mancala – an ancient counting strategy game that’s thousands of years old. “You’re in luck,” I say. “I know a store that carries it.”
Allen Rickert is the owner of Top Ten Toys. He believes toys should inspire and educate while being fun.
Little Ones continued next page
Gifts for the LITTLE ONES
2015 kids’ book recommendations
From Tegan Tigani, children’s book buyer for Queen Anne Book Company
w The Spirit of Christmas
Written and illustrated by Nancy Tillman. This sweet and lovely rhyming board book is a perfect holiday keepsake. Ages 0-4 www.qabookco.com/ book/9781250064530
w Firefly Hollow
By Alison McGhee, illustrated by Christopher Denise. Gorgeous illustrations and a sweet story with animals and a child make this chapter book a moving readaloud for fans Charlotte’s Web and Wind in the Willows as well as younger siblings. Ages 5-10 www.qabookco.com/book/ 9781442423367
w B is for Bear: A Natural Alphabet Written and illustrated by Hannah Viano. Explore the natural world and the alphabet with this picture book illustrated with gorgeous cut paper art. By the WA artist who did the regional favorite, S is for Salmon: A Pacific Northwest Alphabet. Ages 3)+
w The Night Before Christmas: A Brick Story
Written by Clement C. Moore, illustrated by Amanda Brack. A classic with a new twist: the traditional poem illustrated completely with LEGO! Ages 3+
www.qabookco.com/book/9781634501798
w Oskar and the Eight Blessings
Written by Richard and Tanya Simon, illustrated by Mark Seigel. Celebrate the season with this historical fiction picture book about a young Jewish refugee’s arrival in New York in 1938 on the seventh night of Hanukkah, which was also Christmas Eve. Luminous illustrations and the message of hope helps us appreciate miracles of kindness. Ages 5+
www.qabookco.com/ book/9781596439498
w The Story of Diva and Flea
Written by Mo Willems, illustrated by Tony DiTerlizzi. This full-color illustrated early chapter book about a cat and dog in Paris is a great family read-aloud. From the author of Knuffle Bunny and the Elephant and Piggie books. Ages 4-9
www.qabookco.com/ book/9781484722848
w The Snowman Shuffle/ The Reindeer Dance/ The Elf Boogie/The Santa Shimmy
Written by Christianne C. Jones, illustrated by Emma Randall. Read these jazzy board books and dance them out to feel holly jolly! Four titles to choose from, four funny poems, countless giggles and merry ho-ho-hos. Ages 0-4
www.qabookco.com/book/9781479564958
www.qabookco.com/book/9781479564965
www.qabookco.com/book/9781479564934
www.qabookco.com/book/9781479564941
HOLIDAY GUIDE 2015
A special publication of the Queen Anne & Magnolia News, City Living Seattle, Madison Park Times and Capitol Hill Times
Director of Sales & Marketing
Tammy Greenaway
Advertising Representatives Diana Lull, Leilani McCoy, Carolyn Trujillo, Matt Wilemski, Maria Alvord
Art Director
Mark Falconer
Production Designers
Jacqie Callahan
General Manager
Robert Munford
Classified Advertising 206-461-1332
Gifts for the FURRY BEST FRIEND
By Annie McCall, All The Best Pet Care
Pet parents who are looking for gifts this year don’t want another soon-to-be-shredded toy for their dog or cat; they want unique, high-quality, useful items that will last long beyond the holidays.
The changing seasons makes outerwear a great gift idea for dogs. Located in Bend, Oregon, the RuffWear company knows exactly what furry companions in the Pacific Northwest need to enjoy the great outdoors all year round. The Ruffwear Climate Changer is a recycled polyester fleece jacket that keeps dogs warm, dry and significantly cleaner on muddy days while allowing for a full range of motion. This durable fleece jacket still looks like new after countless washings and layers nicely for colder weather.
A treat dispensing toy can offer your dog hours of entertainment while you’re away. The GameChanger™ is extremely durable, yet won’t harm your dog’s teeth. Fill it with healthy treats and your dog will be happily occupied, chewing and working to dispense the treats. The GameChanger is made in the USA from sturdy, washable, PBAfree material.
Holidays are a great time to splurge a bit on a special bed. Lollycadoodle 100% felted wool cat caves keep kitties warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Handmade by artisans in Kathmandu, Nepal in a Fair Trade facility, they are both adorable and durable. These beds can be used as a cozy cave or folded down into a nest – kitties love them either way.
There are long-lasting options for treats, too. The new No-Hide Chews are a much healthier alternative to rawhide, and an odor-free option to bully sticks. This 100% digestible chew is made from USA chicken, with no added hormones or chemicals. Your dog will clean his teeth and gums while happily chewing this nutritious, longlasting treat.
A bag of Life Essentials treats will last your kitty for a long time. Perfectly sized Life Essentials are made from 100% freeze-dried wild Alaskan salmon or breast meat chicken. High-protein, low-fat and organic, it’s the healthy way to treat your cat.
Suggested gift items are available at any of the 11 local All The Best Pet Care stores.
Natural Organic Noble Fir Christmas Trees
Cut To Order and Delivered To Your Door
SIZES: 2FT TO 20FT
Larger trees available by request. The price for larger trees is $15/ft. Free delivery. Cedar & Noble Fir Greens Available.
Delivery Dates: Nov. 23 - Dec. 22
Delivery Times: Call for Appt.
Trees are seriously fresh! They are cut when ordered and delivered within hours.
Silver Star Tree Farm
For more information call Chuck at 206-915-1121
Visit us at www.SilverStarTreeFarms.com
We give every tree the “Picasso” so you don’t have to!
Gifts for the WORLDS BUSIEST PARENTS
AND GRANDPARENTS
Being a parent, especially during the early years, holiday gift giving is usually all about the kids. Busy parents would love nothing more than an adult gift that is all about them! Looking for some great suggestions?
w Gym membership where daycare is available and built into the membership. Any of the larger chains like LA Fitness, have this available.
w Gift certificate for a spa day with an offer to babysit, or post-natal yoga classes for mom and baby. Give dad tickets to a sporting event, like the Seattle Thunderbirds for a “Boys Night Out.”
w You can’t go wrong with a house cleaning service ($150-$200 on average).
w A membership to Netflix ($7.99/mth), Hulu ($7.99/mth) or Amazon Prime gets access to the company’s growing selection of streaming TV shows and movies ($99/yr). Couple it with a “Movie Night” gift basket. Bottle of wine or local craft beer, microwave popcorn, and maybe a cozy throw blanket and you have yourself the perfect parent chill out that does not require even leaving the house.
w Personalized calendars are a wonderful idea. Find 12 photos your grandparents would enjoy and put a calendar together. Any store with a photo center can make a calendar. Then pencil in some days you will spend together!
w Lucky enough to have grandparents who love to be crafty in the kitchen? Buy cookware! Whether it’s a bread maker, some new pots and pans or a new electronic mixer, odds are you will benefit from the delicious goods that will be made using your gift.
w For the active grandparents, The Sit N Cycle Deluxe XL Bike Trainer is the trendiest low-resistance, hands-free workout device on the market. Not only is it
light-weight and easy to transport, it’s also easy to adjust. It retails for $169.96.
w Grandparents who are tech-savvy might appreciate receiving a Wedgestand this Christmas. The pillow stand, designed to help support iPads and other tablets, gives you the ability to enjoy your technology devices without any discomfort. Prices vary from $35.99-$39.99.
Gifts for the ULTIMATE HOME BODY
By Karen Magarelli, Manager of Marketing & Web Services, University Book Store
w Tom Kundig: Works
Tom Kundig
“A gorgeous collection of new projects from Seattle’s own Tom Kundig. Essays, anecdotes and sketches make this much more than a photography book- though the photography is absolutely stunning.”
w Sea and Smoke
Blaine Wetzel
“Take a look inside the award-winning Willows Inn restaurant and the inspired culinary sense of head chef Blake Wetzel. Sea and Smoke is a gorgeous book for
every Northwest lover, featuring photography and essays from this Lummi Island gem.”
w Fylling’s Illustrated Guide to Pacific Coast Tide Pools
Marni Fylling
“A uniquely illustrated field guide, including flora and fauna from Pacific Coast tide pools. We’ll be giving this to all of our friends: artists, naturalists, and curious people.”
w This Is Your Life, Harriet Chance
Jonathan Evison
“A ‘coming of old-age’ novel about a 78 year old Seattle native who discovers a shocking secret that changes everything she thought she knew about her life.
w Between the World and Me
Ta-Nehisi Coates
“The most important book of the year from one of our boldest American thinkers. Coates presents complex ideas of race, violence, privilege, and social responsibility through the lens of a letter written to his 15 year-old son. An essential text.”
Jonathan Evison is, as always, an empathetic and precise character maker. He has the wonderful ability to be witty and light, while contemplating death and the meaning of one singular life.”
w Norwegian Wood: Chopping, Stacking and Drying Wood the Scandinavian Way
Lars Mytting
A ver y specific book for a surprisingly general audience. Never has there been a more beautiful or more charming book about firewood.”
w Landmarks
Robert MacFarlane
“From the author of The Old Ways comes a deeply thoughtful collection exploring the connections between language and land. This is a book for the poetry-loving hiker in your life.”
w Fashion Tribes
Daniele Tamagni
“The best fashion book to hit our shelves in years. If, like our staff, you are obsessed with the expression of multicultural fabulousness, this is the book for you. From Johannesburg to Rangoon, street style is reinvented on every page.”
w Too High & Too Steep
David B. Williams
“If you think the Seattle landscape is changing now, wait until you see the photos of the massive regrade projects that reshaped the city between 1900 and 1930. Change is nothing new!”
Gifts for the FASHIONISTA
By Gina Hawkins, G.G., Sales Associate at Fox’s Seattle
The mixed metal trend is a great way to freshen up your jewelry wardrobe and nobody does it better than Todd Reed jewelry! Todd creates his alternative high fashion jewelry in Boulder, Colorado using reclaimed and ethically sourced metals along with rustic diamonds to create his masterpieces. His clever use of textured metals and unusual diamonds has led to many awards including Contemporary Metal Winner and a Couture Design Award.
Whether you prefer white or yellow metals, you can bring your existing pieces together with a mixed metal statement cuff to create your signature look. This cuff is handmade with 18k gold and sterling silver with a graceful curve of bright white diamonds (0.51 cttw) and Todd’s signature finish. If you’re thinking about adding a ring to your engagement set or start a right hand stack look no further than this 18k yellow gold band. The white diamonds (0.38 cttw) are sprinkled like bubbles in champagne and are flush set so there are no prongs to catch on your sweaters! This diamond pendant ties the collection together, featuring a raw uncut gray diamond (0.94ct) surrounded by bright white diamonds set in 18k yellow gold. The beauty of untouched raw diamonds juxtaposed with the brilliant diamonds create a look that is both modern and timeless.
You can check out these items along with our other designer collections, such as Arman or Alex Sepkus, at foxsseattle.com or stop by and see us at 405 University St at the historic Fairmont Olympic Hotel. We would love to assist you in picking out the perfect gift or start a wish list you can share with your special someone to make gift giving a little easier. Happy shopping and Happy Holidays!
Sterling silver, 18k yellow gold, diamond cuff: $7,920
18k yellow gold and diamond pendant: $5,720
18K yellow gold and diamond ring: $4,840
Upcycled and hand-made are this years trends
By Lisa Michaud, Two Big Blondes Plus Size Consignment
If you have a fashionista on your shopping list this holiday season there are many options for finding a one-of-a-kind gift. Recent fashion trends have gone retro as well as upcycled and handmade items that will always provide a unique gifting opportunity.
Seattle is a haven for local, small businesses offering upcycled, handmade, vintage and used clothing and accessories. Look around where you live, eat and relax.
There may just might be some local shops you have been wanting to go into or never noticed before, making this the perfect time to finally explore. There are a variety of local flea and weekend markets or holiday gift events in your area, which offer an entire holiday experience and include food, handmade gifts and art as well as vintage and pre-owned choices.
1970s, “Mom jeans” from the 1980s; and berets and backpack purses from the 1990s. Through your local thrift, resale, consignment and vintage stores, not only will you be helping the environment, the added bonus is your gift will be unique, which is sure to leave the recipient of these treasures feeling very special.
The sustainable fashion trend includes upcycled products such as handbags made out men’s suits or recycled leather from airline seats that have been changed to fabric to cut down on fuel use. In this age of digital technology it can be fun to go old school with paper products like handbags made from recycled wrappers or jewelry pieces with recycled paper beads. Many of these products are available in local shops or you can look at Etsy for endless handmade and upcycled ideas.
The season’s clothing and accessories trends are drawing from many decades, including cat eye glasses and “Mad Men” fit and flare dresses from the 1950s-60s; leather fringe on coats and purses from the
There are so many ways to make your money work for you, your community and the environment. Be creative and no matter what choices you make this holiday season, have fun and remember to get something special for yourself as well. Happy Holidays!
Photo credit to: Mead Dunevant
Photo courtesy of Fox’s Seattle
Gifts for the URBAN OUTDOORSMAN & OUTDOORSWOMAN
By Andrew Magnussen, Events/Marketing at Second Ascent
As much as we love spending our days walking through old growth forests, swinging sharp tools into firm ice, car ving the first tracks through freshly fallen snow or sleeping on big granite walls, a significant and essential part of our lives are spent in the wonderful convenience of urban life. There’s no one who understands the balance of these two essential yet opposite lifestyles better than the staff at Second Ascent, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the most requested holiday gifts for the urban outdoorsman & outdoorswoman.
w Osprey
Volt 60 (men’s) Viva 50 (women’s)
$179.95
Whether you’re buying for your significant other or for your continually growing teenager, Osprey’s new Volt and Viva, exclusively at Second Ascent, is a great option for someone looking to get into backpacking without breaking the bank. Osprey’s fully adjustable frame sheet makes for a sure fit for anyone looking for a weekend or extended backpacking pack.
w Suunto
Ambit 3 Peak
$499
Track your every activity with this multisport watch complete with a built-in altimeter, barometer, compass and GPS. Rechargeable with a USB cord, it connects wirelessly to a smartphone using Suunto’s very own Movescount app, which will map out all the adventures for you to share with friends. This is a great option for anyone who runs, cycles, skis or climbs.
w Mountain Safety Research
Revo Ascent
$239
Made in Seattle and built for Northwest snow conditions, the MSR snowshoes not only provide flotation but a tremendous amount of traction as well. The torsional rigid ExoTract deck and steel teeth crampons make this the tool of choice while traversing steep, icy terrain. The Revo Ascent sports Ergo Televator heel lifts levels your foot platform, causes less calf strain, making it significantly easier while you’re scaling steep terrain.
w Ruffwear
The Beacon
$19.95
Keeping your pooch safe and comfortable is important during these long Seattle winter nights which.is why we carry the Ruffwear Beacon. It is a lightweight, watertight dog light with three different modes: slow flash, quick flash and continuously on.
w Black Diamond
Men’s
Cold Forge Hoody
$299
Compressible, lightweight and warm; fight the cold, damp Northwest weather with Black Diamond’s Cold Forge Hoody. This puffy jacket contains the best of both worlds; 70% water repellent down & 30% Primaloft Gold. Unlike traditional down jackets, it’s wearable while retaining warmth when wet.
w Patagonia
Women’s Re-Tool Snap-T
Fleece Pullover
$119
Cozy up in Patagonia’s classic Polartec Thermal Pro (51%) recycled fleece pullover. It’s the quintessential piece for everyday use around town or can be used as a warm alpine mid-layer.
w Darn Tough Socks
$18-$25
Everybody loves socks. From the humble state of Vermont, comes the most durable pair of socks you’ll ever own. With their lifetime guarantee they are sure to transfer moisture from your skin (preventing blisters) keeping your feet warm and dry. Both wool and synthetic options available.
Photo courtesy of Second Ascent
Gifts for the FITNESS ENTHUSIATS
For the Runner, Marathoner, or any outdoor fitness buff:
w Winter Head Gear $15-$30. Headbands and hats that fit a ponytail, or moisture wicking/breathable running beanies.
For the home gym expert:
w TRX Bands (Suspension Trainer Basic kits start at $189), Kettlebells (starting around $10), or Dumbell Sets ($8- $200+)
w Subscriptions to Men’s Health/Wellness or Women’s Health/ Wellness Magazines: You can get these easily online, and one year subscriptions start around $10, with discounts for two year subscriptions.
Unisex that keeps giving all year long:
w Activity Trackers: Jawbone UP3 Fitness Tracker monitors your sleep patterns, workouts, and pretty much your every move ($180) or FitBit Activity Trackers (starting around 89.99 and up) tracks activity levels, sleep quality and calories burned.
w Beats Wireless Headphones (around $200) are sweatproof and water resistant.
w Foam Rollers: Every true fitness lover knows the importance of stretching and rolling used muscles. Rollers work through your tight muscles and knots to get your body moving and feeling better (starting around 9.95 and up)
Gifts for the ENTERTAINERS
Want a meaningful gift that the hosts on your list will use over and over again?
w Chalkboard Wine Charms are a great gift idea for those entertainers who like to serve wine. Couple these with a Chalkboard Table Runner and watch the fun begin! Check out Michael’s or Crate and Barrel and Etsy has some unique designs.
w Beverage Dispensers are the perfect way to serve pre-mixed cocktails like Margaritas, Mai Tai or Mimosas.
-Bring back the 70’s with a Fondue Set (starting around $20 and at Target, Walmart etc.)
Young and old love this nostalgic way to serve Appetizer (Cheese or Pizza)or Dessert (yes, you can do S’mores in a fondue pot)
w A Slate Cheese Board will last forever, and be on the table at every get together. You can find these at any local kitchen store, or check out World Market, Sonoma Williams, or Crate and Barrel.
w Lid Popping Pint Glass so bring on the Hawks and the couch! Unfortunately it does not come with the barmaid, who will deliver your brew of choice. Could not resist putting these on the list, find them at www.uncommongoods.com, $11.99 each.
Entertainers continued next page
Eggs Benedict Brunch Braid
3 egg yolks
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Dash cayenne pepper
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
BRAID:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
6 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
6 slices Canadian bacon
2 tablespoons minced chives, divided
1 teaspoon water
In a blender, combine the first five ingredients. Cover and process on high. While processing, gradually add melted butter in a steady stream until combined. Set aside. For braid, in a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Whisk five eggs, salt and pepper; add to skillet. Cook and stir until barely set; stir in sauce.
On a lightly greased baking sheet, roll out pastry into a 12-in. x 10-in. rectangle. Layer the Canadian bacon and egg mixture down the center of rectangle; sprinkle with 1 tablespoon chives.
On each long side, cut 1/2-in.-wide strips. Starting at one end, fold alternating strips at an angle across filling; pinch ends to seal. Whisk remaining egg and water; brush over braid. Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and eggs are completely set. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Sprinkle with remaining chives. Yield: 8 servings.
Seward Park Clay Studio’s Annual Holiday Ceramic Showcase is Here!
Seward Park Clay Studio will hold its annual Holiday Ceramic Showcase from December 4 - 24. The preview night PARTY on December 4th is a great chance to get the pick of the best ceramics in town, with over 40 artists represented in the sale. (December 4, 6:30-9:30pm, $10 suggested donation at the door: light food, drink and FUN)
From December 5-24 the sale is FREE and open to the public. MondaysFridays, 12-7pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-6pm. Shop for amazing holiday presents while supporting one of the Northwest’s cultural gems. For more information go to www.sewardparkart.org.
Gifts for the ENTERTAINERS
w BBQ Planks are the perfect gift for the “Griller” on your list. Given we live in a region where Salmon is abundant, these will be well used. BBQ Tool Sets are a must have and you can get as fancy as you want (sets in their own case starting around $60) to sports themed (check out Dick’s Sporting Goods $37.99 for a Seahawks 3 Piece Coleman Grill Set)
w Thank you Mrs. Cleaver, the apron is back! From traditional, to humerous, to sexy, you can find these in any price range that fits your budget. Online or at your local kitchen store, and check out your holiday bazaars as these as you will find homemade and themed like Seahawks or Huskies.
w DIY Grow Kits! Not only fun but you get to eat or drink what you grow. You can get these for Salsa, Cocktails (with Mint, Lemon Balm, Lavender, etc), Marinara, Mushrooms and so on,...price range starts around $12 and can go up to $30+ on average.
Snow Cap
Cocktail
3 parts Bourbon
2 tbsp Sugar, Powdered
6 tbsp Heavy Cream
2 parts Orange Liqueur
To taste Nutmeg
Garnish Orange Twist
w It does not have to be Cinco De Mayo for these to join a party! Tequila Shot Glasses are another great gift idea and you can bring along the bottle of Patron. Sur La Table has some unique Himalayan Salt Tequila Shot Glasses in a set of 4 for $29.95
Gifts for the WINERS, SHAKERS & BREWERS
For the Vino lovers on your list:
The Curious World of Wine: Facts, Legends, and Lore About the Drink We Love So Much, wine tales that are by turns amusing, surprising, and occasionally a bit naughty, by wine expert Richard Vine. Available at Amazon, or check out your local book store.
A set of Stemless Wine Glasses, like these chalkboard ones from Pier One, starting at $3.95 each. They also have some unique crackle ones starting at $5.95
Join them up for a Wine Club like the one that Columbia Winery hosts. They send out bottles of wine four times a year, based on your membership selection: White/Red, All Red or Winemaker’s selection. This is the gift that gives till next Christmas! Membership also gives you discounts and invitations to wine tastings.
For the Brew lover:
Did you know that WA has over 175 breweries? I bet your brew lover knows this, and a gift of a craft beer (or beers) will be well enjoyed. You can’t go wrong with any of the following 2015 Washington Beer Award Winners:
Gordon Biersch Seattle in Downtown Seattle – Winner: Golden Export
Naked City Brewery & Taphouse in Greenwood – Wnner: Rauch City
Fremont Brewing in Fremont – Winner: Wandering Wheat
Reuben’s Brews in Ballard – Winner: Robust Porter
For the Spirit lover:
Washington is home to some amazing distilleries! A bottle of local spirits can be purchased at your neighborhood liquor store or at the distilleries themselves, many of which are right here in Seattle.
To compliment your bottle of local vodka, gin or bourbon, book them on a tour, where they can look behind the scenes in the distilling room, the process of handcrafting and get a taste of small batch spirits. Check out Mischief in Fremont for $15 per adult or Road Dog Tours offers to do the driving and takes you to multiple local locations for $79 per adult. *** They also offer a Brewery Tour for your lover of beer
Upper Queen Anne
Event Calendar
• NOVEMBER 20-22: Yulefest at Nordic Heritage Museum in Ballard/10-5pm, Adults $5.00 per person. Kids twelve and under are admitted for free. Hand-crafted wares, traditional Scandinavian Christmas food and drinks for sale. Music, dancing, visit from Santa, raffle and Silent Auction.
• NOVEMBER 27-JANUARY 3: WildLights and real reindeer, night animals, and carolers at Woodland Park Zoo. Closed Dec. 24 & 25.
• NOVEMBER 27-DECEMBER 28: Nutcracker Ballet/McCaw Hall at Seattle Center
• NOVEMBER 28: Magnolia Winterfest 2-6pm/Live Reindeer, Santa, merchant sales, covered wagon rides, carolers, sales, food, drink, etc, tree lighting at Magnolia Garden Center at 5:30.
• NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 3: Festival Of Trees @ The Fairmont Olympic Hotel/ Free, 21 Designer Trees
• DECEMBER 1-23: Issaquah Reindeer Festival and visit Cougar Mountain Zoo, decked out as the North Pole to welcome Santa and his reindeer & sleigh
• DECEMBER 2-6: A Victorian Country Christmas has 500 booths with vendors in Victorian costumes selling art, jewelry, decorations, clothing, and toys at Washington State Fair Events Center in Puyallup.
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission @ MOHAI (Museum of History & Industry) & Tours
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission @ Seattle Art Museum Downtown/10AM-9PM
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission @ University Of Washington’s Henry Art Gallery/Contemporary Art
• DECEMBER 3: The Museum of Flight/Free Admission 5-9 p.m., 150+ Historic Air & Spacecraft, Air Force One, NASA Trainer
• DECEMBER 3: Seattle’s Original Art Walk @ Pioneer Square/Free Parking, Self Guided
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission Day at Northwest African American Museum
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission @ Burke Museum of Natural History & Culture/Washington State’s Oldest Museum
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission Days at Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience
• DECEMBER 3: Free Admission @ Seattle Asian Art Museum 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• DECEMBER 3: Pioneer Square Art Walk & Openings/Dozens of Openings, Free, Occidental Park, Noon – 8 p.m.
• DECEMBER 3: Burke Trivia Night @ College Inn Pub | Science, Culture, Museums, $5 Per Team, 21+
• DECEMBER 3-27: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang @ Seattle Children’s Theatre
• DECEMBER 4-JANUARY 2: Christmas Lights - Wild Waves in Federal Way (see website for schedule)
• DECEMBER 4: Upper Queen Anne’s Holiday Magic 4-8pm/ Santa, merchant sales,carolers, food drink, tree lighting at the Towne Square Plaza at 6:30pm.
• DECEMBER 4-6: Urban Craft Uprising @ Seattle Center | Seattle’s Largest Indie Craft Show, 150+ Vendors, Art, Design, Craft
• DECEMBER 4-20: “Holiday of Errors” a comedy presented by Sound Theatre Company @ 12th Avenue Arts
• DECEMBER 5-24: Annual Holiday Ceramic Showcase @ Seward Park Clay Studio/Free. Come Dec 4th 6:30-9:30pm for the preview party, $10 suggested donation at the door (light food and drink)
• DECEMBER 4: Fremont Art Walk/Pizza, Beer, Wine
• DECEMBER 4: Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition @ Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank/Free, Holiday Music Sing Off
• DECEMBER 4: Kenmore Christmas Tree Lighting Festival/Kenmore Village, 6-8:30 p.m.
• DECEMBER 5-6: Phinney Winter Festival & Crafts Fair has 100+ arts and crafts vendors, musicians and dancers, and lunch and baked goods at Phinney Center.
• DECEMBER 5: Mount Baker Home Tour and Arts& Crafts Fair@ Mount Baker Community Club/tickets are $30 in advance, Seniors $25
• DECEMBER 5-6: Ride the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad/Santa Train
• DECEMBER 5-6: Tacoma Festival of Trees/60+ Exquisitely Decorated Trees, Santa, Benefit for Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital
• DECEMBER 5: Free Historic Paramount Theater Tour: 450,000+ Patrons Per Year/
• DECEMBER 7: The Big Chanukah Show @ Stroum Jewish Community Center/Free, Music, 7-9 p.m.
• DECEMBER 9: Wallingford Art Walk/Art, Entertainment, Food
• DECEMBER 10: Capitol Hill Blitz Art-Walk/Many Gallery Openings Including Visual Arts, Musical Performances, Food & Beverage Specials
• DECEMBER 10: West Seattle Art Walk/Free, 6-9PM
• DECEMBER 11-22: “A Festival of Lessons & Carols” presented by Northwest Boychoir
• DECEMBER 11: Belltown Artwalk/Art Celebration, Free
• DECEMBER 11: Art Up in PhinneyWood/Art Walk, Free
• DECEMBER 12: Milk Fund’s Annual CookieFest @ Seattle Center/Pop Up Bake Sale, Benefit for Child Care & Family Support Program
• DECEMBER 12: Shop for holiday treats at CookieFest at Seattle Center’s Amory Loft (food circus top floor). Free.
• DECEMBER 12: Ballard Art Walk/6-9PM
• DECEMBER 12: Bring your four-legged friend in costume to Pioneer Square Howlidays for a costume contest (register in advance), agility course, dog park, carolers, and cocoa at Occidental Park. 11-3pm
• DECEMBER 12: Georgetown Art Attack/Neighborhood Art Walk, Free
• DECEMBER 12: Madrona Art Walk/Music, Drinking, Shopping, Live Music
• DECEMBER 12: Free Historic Tour of Moore Theater/100+ Years Of Performances
• DECEMBER 12-13: Ride the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad/Santa Train
• DECEMBER 13: “Carmina Angelorum” presented by The Seattle Girl’s Choir @ Chapel of St. Ignatius 3pm. Tickets are $12/$8
• DECEMBER 13: Hear the entire score of the holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, preceded by cocktails at Cornish Playhouse at the Seattle Center.
• DECEMBER 13: “Joyous Songs of the Holidays” presented by Seattle SeaChordsmen @ Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church 2pm, General Admission $20, Senior $15, 18 and under are free
• DECEMBER 15: McCaw Hall Free Public Tour/Starts at noon, lasts up to 90 minutes, and is led by a McCaw Hall, Seattle Opera or Pacific Northwest Ballet staff member
• DECEMBER 17: Downtown Edmonds Art Walk/Free, Hundreds of Artists & Exhibitions, Live Performances
• DECEMBER 17: Seattle Center’s “Best Damn Happy Hour”/Prizes, Music, Specialty Cocktails, Discounted Parking
• DECEMBER 17: $1 Thursday @ KidsQuest Childrens Museum in Bellevue/5-8PM
• DECEMBER 17: Columbia City Art Walk, Street Fair, After Hours/Free
• DECEMBER 18: University District Art Walk/6-9PM, On & Around University Way
• DECEMBER 18-19: Ride the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad/Santa Train
• DECEMBER 19: “Carmina Angelorum” presented by The Seattle Girl’s Choir @ First United Methodist Church/Denny Way 7:30pm. Tickets are $12/$8
• DECEMBER 19: Free Historic Tour of Neptune Theater/90 Minutes, 10AM
• DECEMBER 20: “Carmina Angelorum” presented by The Seattle Girl’s Choir @ Holy Rosary Church on Genesee 7:30pm. Tickets are $12/$8
• DECEMBER 20: 12K’s of Christmas Holiday Run/Walk or Run, Costume Contest, Free Food, Music
• DECEMBER 31: Space Needle New Year’s Eve 2015 / 2016 Fireworks Pictures & Info/FREE, f f f f f
Holiday ideas for those on the go
If you’re shopping for that special someone who commutes by bike or is committed to riding we have the gift they might not think of for themselves and for the drivers on your gift that has a vehicle missing the most up-to-date Bluetooth enabled audio system or that older model car that is missing a hands free connection we have some ideas for you as well.
For the biker in your family or friend list consider the “O-Tus mini speakers with Bluetooth.” O-Tus provides 15 watt “nearear speakers” where you can hear background sounds (bikes, cars, emergency vehicles, and your friend’s whining) and have your own personal surround sound stereo all without long chords to tangle and untangle and without endangering yourself or breaking the law using ear buds when you ride.
The units look like earbuds but the 15-watt output devices are not designed to go in the ears at all. Instead, they are applied to the “under-hang” of the user’s cycling helmet via adhesive-backed Velcro pads, directly above and near the ears. The wires are then tucked behind the helmet’s sizing pads and fed back through one of its rear ventilation holes, where they plug into the optional Bluetooth receiver (which we highly recommend). The Bluetooth receiver can also attach to the back of the helmet or be worn as a pendant all while the phone or other music device itself can remain stowed in a hydration pack, saddle pack, or pocket. See o-tus.com/store and for $75 it includes the speakers and the “Jabra street” blue tooth unit that can be helmet mounted or worn as a dog tag style pendant and works with any 3.5mm audio jack and pairs with most cell phones as well. An additional upside to the on-the-peddle surround sound is you get off-bike use of the JABRA Street 2 unit for walks or jogging when worn as a Bluetooth pendant and attached to any standard earbuds. PEDDLE ON!
If you want to add Bluetooth in your car or to that persons on your list, but you don’t want to spend the big money and/or time to install a new system, you have three options depending on the car’s setup and whether your primary interest is in “making phone calls” or “listening to music.” If you’re fortunate enough to have an aux-in port (an audio-input jack that fits a plug like the one on your headphones), a Bluetooth kit with an aux-in cable is the easiest most reliable choice and certain to produce the best overall sound and call quality on the go.
If you don’t have an aux-in port, the next best options depend on your priorities for the units use. If you value “call quality” over “sound quality”, a clip-on speakerphone is the way to go; however, if you care more about music and podcast sound quality than about clear calls, choose an FM transmitter Our suggestions and a good place to start comparing these offerings would be as follows:
FOR clip on visor units consider:
w Motorola Roadster 2 Bluetooth
$78 on amazon
w JABRA FREEWAY Bluetooth
$61 on amazon
FOR FM transmitter types consider: w The iClever Wireless Bluetooth FM Transmitter $29.99 amazon
w Mpow Streambot Y Wireless Bluetooth FM transmitter $34.99 amazon
FOR aux-in port units consider:
w iClever Himbox Bluetooth 4.0 Hands-Free Car kit $29.99 on amazon
w SOUNDBOT SB360 Bluetooth 4.0 Car Kit $19.99 on amazon
Madison Park
Madison Park
2939 E Madison St. Seattle 98112 (206) 324-0737 www.citypeoples.com/garden
including AllClad, LeCreuset,Cuisinart,Wusthof and Chilewich oor and table mats 4224 E. Madison St., Seattle 206-328-2665 An independent neighborhood store! Books, Kettler bikes, Calico Critters, and a variety of toys for all ages 4218B E. Madison Street 206-453-5306
PARK BENCH
