Rachael Ray Rocks

Okay, so I’m not always impressed with Everyday with Rachael Ray. It tends to be cooking heavy, which is not my thing, but of course makes sense considering Rachael Ray’s focus. This month’s holiday issue, however, has tons of great gift ideas and totally gives Real Simple a run for their money.

What I really like is they have a nice article about The Joy of Shopping. There’s been so much in the press lately demonizing consumerism, so much so that our economy, well you all know what’s happening with our economy. The article is first rate — talks about how shopping for other people is supposed to be fun, that it’s a wonderful way to thank the people in your life for being them, to give them something that will make them happy and light up their life a little. It’s a great way to rev up into the season. Plus they’ve got a lot of great ideas.

First up are porcelain Fromage Plates by BIA Cordon Bleu. $30 for a set of four. They found these at an awesome catalog gift shop called Cambria Cove. Second up are a bunch of cool little lacquer boxes that are decorated with images of ring, necklace, watch or brooch. These would be great gifts for the Funs and Classics in your life who you know have a jewelry overrun. Do not, we repeat, do not buy them for Organics or Smarts! Oh and ninja men cookie cutters at $11 make an awesome stocking stuffer.

And that’s just the first page.

Some more of my favorites are the Gray Rose Pillow made of wool felt, Michael Michaud Ginko Salad Servers, and golf balls with funky little graphics on them. The kids will love giving those last ones to their grandpas. Oooh and there’s also some pretty Cascading Dogwood Earings for only $38.

This is definitely a great resource for gift giving this holiday season. Great for all personality types.