Post Thanksgiving

As I write this, it is a dreary, rainy, starting-to-get chilly Saturday afternoon. But since I don't mind these kind of days once in a while, I was in a good mood to clean out my laundry room, aka the catch-all room. Also, this being the 'breather' weekend, when you can catch your breath a bit before jumping into the Christmas season, it is a good time - and a good day - to regroup.

And what else to think about as we launch into the holidays is - shopping. About a month ago, I received an email from a friend with a simple message: let's try not to buy a lot of stuff this year, let's make this a useful gift-giving and receiving season and let's keep it local. We all read a lot about buying local - and I do try to support our local businesses as much as possible. Also the message in that email was that - everyone needs haircuts, why not get a certificate for a local barber or hair stylist? Cleaning service? So many things that people really need - rather than buying more 'stuff.'

Last week, for example, I needed a new watch band. I parked right in front of Linnea Jewelers on Ashland and inquired about a watch band for my watch. Denise Rose, the owner, is always on hand to help and advise. They had exactly what I wanted and my errand was finished in no time flat. Since I had a great parking spot, I walked into the new shop uptown, Alixandra. They happened to have a sale going on where if you bought two tee-shirts of a brand I particularly like, you could get one free. Great deal and easy access.

One of my friends gave me a $5 gift card for Fannie May as a congratulations on the birth of my baby granddaughter. I walked to Fannie May at the corner of La Grange Road and Burlington and picked out my $5 worth of candy - incidentally, what a fun gift to receive! Then I made a stop at Hallmark, just five doors west of Fannie May and picked out my November birthday cards.

I should also add that before the time change, my husband said, "Let's walk uptown for breakfast in the dark." (always the romantic, he is) - We walked up to Cafe Calbay on a rainy morning and had a superb breakfast. I am ashamed to admit it, but it is the first time I was ever there and I thoroughly loved it. The place is bright, a throwback to the old places that were always most comfortable to us. I also noticed how many people come in for a 'go cup' of coffee, as the Cafe is located directly across from the La Grange train station.

And I also stop frequently at Veni Vidi Val. Val has been in business for 20 years, 7 here in La Grange. Prior to her moving the shop to La Grange Rd., she was located on Michigan Avenue. Her selection of gift items, clothing, purses, scarves, trinkets and Thymes bath and beauty soaps and lotions is always changing. It's a perfect spot for a gift for a friend....or a gift for yourself.

All of this with no hassle of following someone to his or her car at Oakbrook Mall, hoping they are leaving so you can snare their spot; only a five or seven minute ride and easy access with the owners of the shops eager to serve you - let's keep it local this year!