Because You Can’t ALWAYS Shop at the GoodWill.

One of the nicest gifts I ever received was a collection of recipes, from the “Food” section of The Washington Post, gathered and organized into a photo album. It was so personal and thoughtful. Now you know why I married him.

The Holiday Season is upon us. I am one of those disgusting people who loves every minute of it. I do not have a single Scrooge-y bone in my body. I think every last gift through, and make sure the teachers have something homemade to take home. My feminist mother is regularly appalled by this.

This is a gift guide, in case you do not have a years’ worth of newspapers sitting around, or time to bake. We have thought up unique ideas, from the finicky to the adored on your list, and you will not be disappointed.

This is a fabulous coffee table book. It radiates cool…. I love it and have given it as a gift before. It is available at Amazon for $51.

This gift is for the overachiever in your life. The one who roasts his own coffee beans and brews his own beer. I own this as well and it is chock full of goodies. You would never believe how easy it is to make cheese! This starter kit is only $50 and is available from Ricki the Cheese Queen Herself!

From GAIAM this yoga mat is for your exercise buddy! Choose your own design or color, or choose one of the ready-made designs like the one pictured above. Reasonably priced at $29.50, this is a must have!

For the alcoholic on your list… We all have (at least) one! Keep your drink cold without diluting it.  From Uncommon Goods and priced at only $19.50, this is a steal. Course, they are only rocks… just sayin’.

This one was recently given to me as a gift. I have no idea where to get it, but you could buy some plain glasses and paint them. Give them to your nearest and dearest Mommy friends and don’t forget the wine!

I fell in love with the cover of this one. A cookbook from The Smithsonian, and priced at only $24, how can you resist?

For your beloved…. dog. A bed made from your old t-shirts. A removable duvet cover so the dog can smell you, but you don’t have to smell it! Genius! Check your local gourmet pet store. I got mine from Mighty Healthy Pet, but it is available on-line as well. and is made by Molly Mutt. It cost a total of $24, for both pieces.

The Smithsonian does it again! A hoodie ($35) that does double-duty! What a great gift for a kid of any age.

One stop shopping at The Smithsonian. They have great ideas for kids. This Art Puzzle Box has a different masterpiece on each side and is priced at $39. Beware as side effects  may cause your head to explode or learn about Modern Art, either one. This is for someone who enjoys a challenge, a win win!

Simply Turquoise hopes you have a warm and safe Holiday!

© copyright 2012 Mariam d’Eustachio.