More Unique Gifts

Monograms, monograms, monograms. The iconic letters are popping up everywhere from towels to planters. Not a bad thought for those tough-to-buy for folks on your list this season.

This customized planter from Ballard Designs is 16" x 16.25" square and costs $149.

Via Shop Better Here.

PS - Not a bad house-warming gift either.

Thoughts on the Holidays: Unique Gifts

I love the idea of receiving a unique gift that I would never buy for myself, and I'm hoping that everyone on my list feels the same way. There is nothing more luxurious than that fabulous thing you ran across but would never treat yourself to. The only problem is figuring out what that item is for someone else. For the next two months, I will try to post anything I run across that seems to fit the bill.

To start, I saw this book, simply called "book," on Design Sponge. The sketch book was passed back and forth at random between four artists for 36 weeks. Each artist had 5 days to prepare a spread in response to the spread before it. You can view the book and order a copy for $55 here.

New Central Market in Southlake

A new Central Market is set to open in Southlake December, 6th of this year. The new store will be located at 1425 E. Southlake Blvd.

Sorry for the skimpy posting. It's been a busy week.

Holiday Decor: More Great Finds at Target

Thomas O'Brien Modern Glass Centerpiece. $39.99 online and in stores.


Isaac Mizrahi Porcelain Pedestal Bowl. $14.99 online and in stores.

Thoughts on Fall: Pickin' Apples

I love the fall season, with one, and only one exception: the dwindling choice of ripe fruits and veggies in my local supermarket. Once September hits, it's hard to find a decent strawberry or cantaloupe, but you can count on apples.

In past years, I'd avoided the apple. I've never been a fan of the Red Delicious and I often found my beloved Granny Smith's to be mushy and flavorless by the time they reach Dallas. Luckily, with the arrival of Central Market, all grocery stores have had to up their produce game to stay competitive. I can now select from dozens of varieties of apples, and I have found more than a few new favorites.

With all the selection, you will probably see a few apples you don't know. Luckily, the Apple Journal has a comprehensive apple guide available online. The guide lists the fruit varieties alphabetically and gives a description of origin, color, flavor and texture. I myself am partial to the oh-so-dainty sounding Pink Lady.

The Apple Journal also has pages of apple recipes ranging from salads to puddings to fritters.