Tiffany…to a Tee

I’ve written a lot about my Favorite things and great gifts to give as well as wonderful gifts I  have received.  I thought that was all well and good and was keeping the handful of people who follow my blog happy (actually I’m about 440K lifetime views, but who’s counting?).  Apparently human nature is such that  ”some people” don’t always want to hear about fairy tales, ribbons  and rainbows.  So I’ve been cornered, yes cornered and asked “what is the worst gift you’ve received…You should blog about that.  People would find that interesting and you more likable”.  Wow…people don’t find me likable, because I write this snappy blog?  That’s hurtful.  Anyway, I honestly couldn’t think of anything that I’ve received that I truly disliked.  There once was a cocktail ring that Kevin gave me for an anniversary, that some of my friend’s originally thought was a “miss”, but I actually really love that ring (future blog).

So…(and yes I will get to the point and land this plane), the kids and I were “hanging” and Patrick came into the family room swinging a Tiffany & Co.  Golf Putter Kevin had given me for Mother’s Day a few years back (along with 6 Tiffany charms for a charm bracelet which makes that bracelet weigh about 8 LBs).   The request regarding “frivolous gifts” sprung to mind.  The Tiffany & Co. golf putter comes in a  tiffany-blue felt protective cover, covering the entire putter and the sterling silver club head also has its own tiffany-blue felt protective cover.  I golf, I’m not a good golfer, but I do enjoy it, and love to have fun on the course, but in no way am I remotely close to needing a really fine putter (Patrick is the only person in the world who would dare try to actually use that putter) nor am I worthy of displaying a fine golf putter. I don’t think I even have a handicap, except that I like to drink adult beverages on the course and tell duck jokes.  :)

So…Patrick and I were discussing this golf club,  that I keep in our umbrella stand, in its’ protective cover, and he decided to Google it…and this is what we found:

Tiffany to a tee. Golf putter in stainless steel with sterling silver club head. 3′ long.

Available exclusively at Tiffany.com, the New York flagship and select Tiffany stores.

$2150

$2150.  $2150?  I had to do a double take…I had NO IDEA he paid $2150 for a decorative golf club.  At least I think it’s supposed to be decorative… remember, I keep it in my umbrella stand, so I find it decorative.  And, as we know, my mantra is Frugal is the New Black, but Kevin must have thought this was something that I’d really, really love.   The O’Brien’s are not the Kardashian’s, so I am still baffled by this purchase.    Kevin may have his own faults (that won’t be a future blog, either), but he really is probably the best gift-giver, ever.  When I’m long gone, Meredith and Patrick will enjoy those gifts, as will their children and hopefully generations to come.  And just perhaps, they’ll also enjoy this blog!    Oh, and it’s important to note this was given to me Pre-Recession!.

I’m in good company, as apparently Michael Jordan was awarded a Tiffany Golf Putter, suitable for engraving, for some act of kindness and goodwill…and how happy was I that I was able to get a picture of it, as shown below.  I’d like to mention that the putter I received is Not engraved, nor did I receive it for any random act of kindness, goodwill, or chivalry.  I believe I received it because it was Mother’s Day and I’m a Mom to Meredith and Patrick.

So, I now have a ready response for when someone asks “What is your least favorite, or most frivolous gift you’ve ever received”?  I love everything I’ve ever received…but I did receive a Sterling Silver Tiffany Golf putter…that’s for decoration only.  I love it, but it’s just too good to take out on the links!

If you would like your very own Tiffany and Company Sterling Silver Golf Tee, there are several on eBay.  Prices range from $595 to $1750, depending on condition.  And no, you will Not find one listed by Dressedtoat, as regardless of whether or not it’s a frivolous gift, I’m keeping it!

“The 80′s called, they want their bangs back”…That, and other snarky comments people have made regarding my blog will be addressed within the next few weeks.  Let’s give the people what they want.  No ribbons, no rainbows, no fairy tales…but sarcastic and some very unflattering comments people have made regarding me and my blog…And yes, someone, really did post about my bangs in a comment on my blog.  I spammed his comment!   And to further make people happy, I’m going to do a blog on “Make-up tips” for my friend, Gracie!  Not that I’m remotely qualified to write about make-up, but I do think I have a pretty good sense about what is right and what is wrong!  Plus, Google is certainly my friend.

xoxo,

T.

What to give, what to give, what to give…Holiday gift ideas!

It’s better to give than receive…we all know that, however, there is always a great amount of Stress in worrying about whether or not you are giving the right gift, or a gift that will be loved.  I received this email from a dear friend of mine, who is already stressing about the holidays and the gift giving:   “NOT my favorite time of the year due to the gift giving.  I know it’s for the kids, and hate to be a Scrooge, but it sucks so much joy out of the holiday for me…worrying about someone’s reaction to a gift is such a wrong way to start this blessed holiday. Plus knowing that kids are usually not blown away on my budget, never disrespectful, but not overjoyed…which is probably ok with me, maybe I’ve tempered them to have reasonable expectations and be grateful for the $200 of misc. they each get? Wish there was some way to truly balance the budget, kids and family expectations and the real meaning of Christmas.  Everyone struggles with this.  “

So along with stocking stuffer ideas, here are some Holiday Gift Ideas, which hopefully, will please whomever is on the receiving end, and lessen the stress of gift-giving.  And please remember the true reason for the season!  

NOTE:  Lengthy blog ahead…proceed at your own risk, or just read what’s in BOLD.

Holiday Gift ideas – What Women Really Want (and some of these would apply to men, as well)

1.  Hunter Boots – I have noticed more Hunter boots, as of late.  And they look super cute with the socks peeking out the top.  $115

2.  iPad – I will write about this often – the gift that keeps on giving.   In fact, I will put this on every list I write, because it really is That sensational!  You can buy one for less than $400…which, I realize is a lot of money, but you can also look for used iPads, and get them for closer to $275.

3.  Cashmere or Leather Glove - I was just given pink leather gloves…and absolutely love them..And, they go with all of my coats!

4.  “Dinner and a Movie” gift certificates -  There’s a new romantic comedy coming out “New Year’s Eve”, which paired with her favorite restaurant, makes a Perfect evening!  Or, for those here in Chicago…how about a Shaw’s gift certificate (Lettuce Entertain You) and AMC Movie Theatre…and I would use the Shaw’s certificate from 3P – 6P, where Oysters are Half-priced Every day of the Week!!  And of course go and see a lovely romantic comedy or that new movie with George Clooney!  Every year (or whenever he’s in town) my old CEO (he’s not old, I mean former) and I go to Shaw’s and eat oysters and drink chardonnay.  Always one of my favorite days of the year!

5.   Spa Certificate – sign me up!   Or, the lady you are buying for.

6.  Anything from Tiffany – sign Kevin up! 

7.  Sporting Event/Concert tickets – with basketball season starting and football winding down, these could be huge winners!  And hopefully, so will the Bears!  Remember women love sports too!

8.  “Of the Month Club“…Beer, Wine, Breakfast, Dessert, Coffee, Flowers, etc…there are many, many options

9.  A year of car washes.  You can also find great deals on Groupon for Car Washes…I bought 10 for $10 (each is typically $3.50), and these are not the gas station  variety either…it’s a pretty darned great car wash for a buck!  It’s wonderful driving around in a clean car!

10.  Perfume – my favorites, as previously indicated Amazing Grace by Philosophy; Gucci Li; and Beach by Bobbie Brown.  Find out her favorite, and get a gift set…It’s all about gift sets during the holiday season, and many of the add-ons are discounted…

11. A day with my family…No cell phones.  No blackberries (and that goes for me as well).  Just us, and I’d like to play Apples to Apples (and perhaps enjoying a glass or two of chardonnay).   I’m pretty sure most of my friends would agree with this as well.

***Things that are “In” now for Women:  Faux Fur; Sparkly things (Sweater, shoes, handbag); Rose Gold; Painted Totes. 

(Proceed with at your own risk…this blog now gets rather lengthy)

What Men Want – we know men typically buy things they want, so typically don’t ask for things.  I know this first-hand from Kevin, plus Jason confirmed this for me…However, these are some great gift ideas, provided from my posse:

1.  iPad – again…everyone will Love an iPad!

2.  Electronics, to include, but not limited to:  iPhone; iPod; Bose headphones or ear buds; Garmin GPS; Flatscreen TV.

3.  Things for their car – anything from car washes, to iPhone chargers, to car vacs, to trunk organizers.

4. Luggage – Tumi luggage…lasts a life time.   Costco even carries it.  Less then $200! 

 

5.  New Gym Shoes – but only if they ask, you don’t want to give the impression you want them to “work out”.

6.  Watch – while a personal gift, this can be something you shop for together.  The days of the Gold Rolex President are Long gone!  Watches are more modern, more sleek  and much less expensive.

7.  Tickets to a Sporting Event – may I suggest the Bears v Packers NFC Championship Game?  God-willing, of course. (Not after yesterday’s fiasco).

8.  Clothes – anything North Face; Tie (try the color pink, please); Dress Shirts; Sweatshirt; Belt; Jeans

9.  Tools – Good Craftsman tools!

10.  Gift Certificates Sur La Table (yes, men do cook), Sporting places (Dick’s; Sports Authority; Cabella) ; Nordstrom (yes, Men like Nordstrom as well); Barber.

***Things that are “In” for Men:  Bomber Hats; Puffy Jackets (not the Seinfeld Puffy shirt, either); anything Wireless; Headphones

What Not to Buy!

“Just don’t buy me a sweater.  Wives like to buy men sweaters.  We don’t like that”.  (Mark)

KIDS – this would be its’ own blog, which I will not be doing this year, but what’s new and trendy this year for kids:

Let’s Rock Elmo

Air Swimmers

Angry Birds Wood Game – it’s not just for your iPad or iPhone

I am T-Pain

Fijit Friends

More Unique Holiday Gift Ideas

1.  Go for the Limited Edition:  It doesn’t matter what your friends and family are into, there’s usually a limited edition version that you can get hold of that will make their eyes light up. Think about their favorite perfumes, books or films. Getting a signed poster of their favorite film or a bottle of the champagne they love that only comes out once a year will show them that you pay attention to the things that they enjoy. They might be a little harder to get hold of, but the effort will be rewarded when you see how happy they are to receive it.

2.  Make a Photo Album:  Making a photo book for someone is a great way of creating a unique, inexpensive gift that can be treasured for a lifetime.  Photo books are versatile – you don’t have to stick to a pre conceived format or style. Put your own stamp on it by writing a story and using photos of your friends and family to illustrate it. There are hundreds of ideas that you could choose so take a look around for some inspiration and then get snapping!

3.  Treat them to a Little Luxury:  If they’re the type of person to feel guilty for spending money on themselves then consider buying them something extra special. Pick up some exclusive chocolates, a bottle of champagne or a voucher for a foot massage – anything that you think they would enjoy but wouldn’t buy for themselves. Everybody loves to be indulged and pampered a little, so go all out and make them feel special.

4.  Nostalgia:  Everybody loves a bit of nostalgia so think about buying something retro rather than shiny and new. If your friends were children of the 1980’s then get them a Super Nintendo to game on or the Back To The Future DVD box set.  Stocking fillers like dominos, microcars, Tamigotchis and an Etch A Sketch are guaranteed to make people smile. Pez dispensers, trivial pursuit,  there’s a huge wealth of opportunities to explore so be creative and create a festive trip down memory lane.

5.  The Gift of Time:  Give your cherished one the gift of Your time…Give them a day to do Whatever they want…Eat where they want and when they want…Make it all about them!  And you will reap the rewards!

(Source:  tiptoptens.com)

Whatever you give, if given with a smile, and given from the heart, you can’t go wrong.

Happy Holidays!

xoxo,

T.

Upcoming Blogs:  Wednesday; More Holiday Gifts:  Friday; Ugly Christmas Sweaters.

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“Beautiful…Trendy…Fierce”…the Faux Fur Circle Scarf!!

When I receive an email and suggestion from my daughter, I listen.  I received this email from Meredith:

oh my goodness, i bought this scarf with my boots, and i am obsessed!

it’s soo beautiful! goes with everything! trendy…fierce…only 18 dollars! 

..something to consider blogging about maybe;)

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/lulu-lush-faux-fur-circle-scarf/3210903?origin=category&resultback=1940

Ok Mer, Mer…I totally agree…and for the terrific price point of $18, it would make a great gift for any woman!  I’m not sure I know many men who could pull this off, but if you do, then Rock On!  With the holiday’s coming up (and way too quickly, btw), my suggestion is to run, not walk, to the internet and order this from Nordstrom (www.nordstrom.com).  Truly for $18, you cannot beat this!   And thanks for the suggestion on blogging about it, Mer Mer…I think that’s a great idea, so Voila!

The Lulu Faux Fur Circle Scarf…Beautiful…Trendy…Fierce…just like Meredith….unlike me, and my “too-poofy” hair!

xoxo,

T.

“A little bit of fawning is like a little bit of wine…why bother?”.  (Terry O’Brien)

Dressing Your Easter Basket!

 

Unique Easter Basket Ideas

As a parent, (and wife) I often get confused about what to put in an Easter basket that is fun, Eggcellent,  the kids will enjoy (and Kevin) and at the same time unique, so I’m not always filling them with the same items year after year….or just Cash, as this is what both Mer Mer and Paddy crave, as they feel Cash is King!   Jelly beans, DVDs, Peeps,  iTunes cards and Chocolates are the usual, but there are also other ideas out there.  Kevin’s easter basket is typically filled with 10 Large Hershey Bars (no nuts).  The kids usually get some of the same, year after year.   So, when looking for some Eggcellent new ideas,  I found some of these , and thought perhaps some of You can also try the following Easter basket ideas to make this year’s baskets more unique and memorable.   (The fabulous Easter basket above can be purchased at www.abernook.com).

Unique Easter Basket Idea with Books
If your kids love to read or you would want them to make books their new best friends, you can try a cute Easter basket idea with books. Little children will enjoy books with Easter story themes and older kids may enjoy Harry Potter or Twilight-type books. Whatever  their reading preferences, you can gift them Easter baskets with books and help them discover the hidden reader in them…and buy yourself a wonderful new book as well.  Girl with the Dragoon Tatoo is on my reading list.  You can start a tradition by gifting a favorite gift, each year, in the baskets.  Wish I had started that 19 years ago.  And in working with my “If you give a Mouse a Cookie” theme…may I suggest,  “If you give a Moose a Muffin?”

Unique Easter Basket Idea with DVD and CD
This is a great idea to be given to teens as their Easter basket gift. You can fill their basket with the latest movie DVDs or music CDs. They will enjoy their Easter basket gift and will look forward to see their favorite movie. You can make personalized CDs for the recipient, with all their favorite music!  Along with gifting your favorite books , you can gift your favorite movies and music.

Easter Basket Ideas for Toddlers

You can get creative and make the Easter basket ideas for toddlers fun. These young minds are looking forward for fun and play and you should gift them just what they expect. You need to add some colorful Play Doh dough or fill it with toys like bath toys, sand toys or add in some character toys like Bob the Builder, Elmo, The Wiggles, etc…

Easter Basket Ideas for Kids

The Easter basket ideas for kids should include paints, colored pencils, stickers, coloring books, plants, bird feeder kits, gift certificates from the local burger or pizza parlors. You can  fill their baskets with temporary tattoos, fake fairy dust, or flower seed packets. You can even fill their baskets with food goodies like chocolate bunnies, Peeps, bunny shaped cookies, and candies of course. If your child is musically inclined, you can place a small musical instrument in the basket surrounded by plenty of candies. Girls will enjoy cute jewelry and lip balms and boys will love baseball and football cards. Stuff toys are always a hit and you can always place tickets to the theme park as a surprise.  Take it a step further and put baseball or basketball tickets in it.

Vintage Candy filled basket

Easter Basket Ideas for Teens

While many teens might declare they’re too old for Easter baskets( Easter is one of Mer Mer and Paddy’s favorite holidays!), most won’t say no to a basket full of their favorite goodies.   These can include movies and video games, music or books. Funky socks or a T-shirt may bring a smile , along with favorite treats, from candy and gum to energy drinks to anything Chocolate!

Other ideas for Easter baskets for teens include gift cards for gas, iTunes cards or shopping at a favorite store, movie tickets, and coupons for one night’s later curfew,  or skipping a least favorite chore one-time.  Patrick would enjoy not having to take out the garbage.  I’ll do that for him during the summer, when Mer Mer is home, so I don’t have to pick up the slack!

Easter Basket Ideas for Adults

Easter is a family celebration and not only the children, but adults too look forward for their Easter basket. Easter basket ideas for adults includes coffee packets and coffee mugs for those who cannot survive without their hot cup of  Joe. Or you can even try Easter basket ideas for adults, like filling the basket with cigars surrounded by other goodies. A person who loves golf can be given an Easter basket filled with golf tees, golf balls, glove and a mini book.  Or you can gift your “gal pal” an Easter basket filled with assorted creams, lotions, bath soaps and candles, perfume, nail polish,  and Spa gift cards.  Oh, and don’t forget the “Pink Ladies from Fannie May”!   Couples can fill each other’s baskets by adding heart-shaped candles, candies and perfumes and cologne.  Or you can show your love with an Easter basket filled with the choicest wine bottles, special wine glasses, and sassy napkins.  That would be the world’s perfect easter basket!  Oh, and don’t forget the Nordstrom gift card!

Easter Jars

Easter Basket Cupcakes

Ghiradelli-Chocolate filled Cable Car…compliments of Kevin O’Brien

Jelly Bean Filled Ice Cream Cones

Double-use Easter basket ideas - in lieu of easter baskets, fill some of these, for a fun-filled, memorable Easter treat.  Aside from the obvious, a large, Fabulous Handbag, try these:

Baseball Cap
Dump Truck
Dress-up Hat – fireman; army; hard hat, etc.
Doll stroller
Shopping Cart
Pillow Cases
Sand Pails
Wagon
Beach Bag
Purse
Sports Duffel Bag
Batters Bag
Flower Pot
Make-up Container
Decorated Paint can
Storage Containers
Back Pack
Fishing Tackle Box
Jewelry Box

PEEPS – sugar-coated marshmallow candies, that are shaped into chicks, bunnies, and other animals. There are also different shapes used for various holidays. Peeps are used primarily to fill Easter baskets, though recent ad campaigns tout the candy as “Peeps – Always in Season”.   Anything that you would want to know (or not want to know) can be found on this website, www.marshmallowpeeps.com.  I believe they could survive a nuclear blast.  There are also lots and lots of wonderful jokes, revolving around Peeps.  My favorites, aren’t suitable for my family friendly blog, so contact me “off-line” and I will send them to you.

Happy Filling and Go Blackhawks and Go Bulls!!!

xoxo,

T.

PS – Speaking of Jelly Beans, my favorite, are Hands Down, Brach’s Jelly Beans…and NOT the spicy kind either.  These are far better than Jelly Belly, Mike and Ike, or Starbursts.