Paint It Black Friday

I feel a bit guilty for not doing my part to bolster America's economy on the busiest shopping day of the year (I did purchase an Entertainment Weekly and some green apples, but I don't think that really counts.) To atone for my lack of shopping, I thought I'd post some gift ideas that will encourage my readers to spend their hard earned cash and hopefully eliminate some of the stress that comes with the search for the perfect Christmas present. I'll post a variety of suggestions over the next month. Here are this week's picks:

A Measuring Gaggle: About a week ago, I was unwinding on my couch with a copy of the latest Anthropologie catalogue when I spied this adorable quartet of goose shaped bone china measuring cups. I actually exclaimed, "Oh my goodness, those are so cute!" (talking to yourself is one of the delightful/disturbing things about living alone.) Your mom/sister/girlfriend/wife would probably never think of buying something as frivolous as goose measuring cups, but just imagine how darling they would look resting on her kitchen shelf. And how they'll add a touch of whimsy to even the most mundane culinary chores. And they're microwave and dishwasher safe. Sheesh, I've convinced myself. I think I'm going to order a set tonight.

Artwork: This gift requires a solid grasp of the giftee's design aesthetic, but can be a fun and unexpected present. For some unique ideas, check out etsy.com, a website where thousands of artisans sell their handmade wares. I'm fond of John Golden's digital prints, especially the By Order Of The Management series, Lunastrella Record Player, Lowtops On Baby Blue, and Mind Your P's And Q's.

Personal Stationary: I was raised by one of the most gracious women I know, yet somehow I can't seem to write a proper thank you note. I understand that lack of cute stationary is no excuse for my rudeness, but perhaps I'd be a bit more on the ball if I had some lovely cards to send. Personal stationary is a great gift because it's a luxury most people wouldn't think to buy for themselves, it's practical, there's a plethora of options, and people will enjoy it regardless of their shoe size, taste in music, or 2008 diet plans. I'm particularly enamored with Paper+Cup's OldSchool Numbered Note Card and Framed Silo Note Card and Erin Condren Design's Sugar Spots Note Card (they even come with matching return address labels!)

A National Geographic Magazine From The Month And Year They Were Born: This gift comes across as incredibly sensitive and thoughtful, yet all you really have to know is the giftee's birthday. It's always fun to look back on the events and trends of your birth year and it may spark some fascinating stories on Christmas morning. Check out National Geographic to learn how to order back issues.

On Top Of The World Globe: This globe won't be everyone's cup of tea and it's fairly expensive, but it could be a super buy for any vintage lovers or travel enthusiasts on your list. Restoration Hardware's nifty replica is modeled after globes on the desks of 1950s travel agents and would look gorgeous on a coffee table.

Happy Shopping!