S.W.A.G

Holiday Gift Guide: The Workaholic

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, December 21st, 2010

Some friends and family members don’t want to be slowed down, and they’re probably telling you this through six different forms of a memo. Whether this workaholic checks their Blackberry, flips through their planner, signs into their email account, or didn’t skip a tweet on their newsfeed, here are gifts ideas that will actually allow them to get more work done.



www.thinkgeek.com

www.thinkgeek.com

1. Mini Business Card File Cabinet
Don’t let a multitude of important business cards get scattered throughout a desk, with the risk of getting lost. This 6.5” mini file cabinet holds up to 800 business cards. This adorable accessory includes lettered-tabs to make sure you stay organized. / Think Geek; thinkgeek.com; $12.99



2. Dropbox iPhone Application
With Dropbox you can access all of your important files that you have put in your synced Dropbox folder at home. This will allow you to get more work done-anywhere. / iPhone Apps.SU, apps.su; $4.99



3. Stationery
The Dandelion Patch features a variety of unique stationary. Choose a style that matches your work environment with letterpress and engraved printing, children’s stationery and more. / Reston Town Center, 11923 Market Street, Reston; 703-689-2240; thedandelionpatch.com; prices vary



www.williams-sonoma.com

www.williams-sonoma.com

4. Nespresso Essenza C100 Automatic Espresso Maker
This easy to use espresso maker will produce rich cappuccinos and lattes, topped off with delicious foam. This is a great way to start the day at the click of a button. Twelve premium coffee capsules are included. / Williams-Sonoma, multiple NoVA locations; Williams-sonoma.com; $249.95



www.thingsremembered.com

www.thingsremembered.com

5. Zipper Padfolio
This genuine leather padfolio will keep you looking professional and stay organized. Personalize it to make this the perfect gift for the executive at the office. / Things Remembered, multiple NoVA locations; thingsremembered.com; $49.99



www.sears.com

www.sears.com

6. Soda Stream Jet Sodamaker Start Kit
Keep things interesting at the office. Although water is a healthy choice, indulge in refreshing soft drinks right at the office can be a special treat—you don’t even have to get up from your desk. The kit includes two reusable carbonating soda bottles just in case your coworkers catch wind of your new kit. / Sears, multiple NoVA locations; sears.com; $99.99



www.papyrusonline.com

www.papyrusonline.com

7. Opening Frame with Stand
Although your loved ones can’t come to work with you, their presence can. This three-photo picture frame will frame memories beautifully with stylish wood. / Papyrus, multiple NoVA locations; papyrusonline.com; $15.00



www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com

8. “How to Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie
It’s back to basics to get on the fast-track to success. Carnegie’s how-to book for success focuses on the fundamentals, from emphasizing the importance of a smile, to providing the needed steps to become a strong leader. / Amazon, amazon.com; $9.00



www.crateandbarrel.com

www.crateandbarrel.com

9. Ripple Black Leather Office Chair
Sink comfortably into your office-work in this soothing ripple effect business chair. Includes 360-degree swivel, smooth leather and foam padding. / Crate and Barrel, multiple NoVA locations; crateandbarrel.com; $299.00



www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com

10. “The 7 Powers of Question: Secrets to Successful Communication in Life and at Work” by Dorothy Leeds
Leeds stresses the importance of communication in both the workplace and at home. Make sure you don’t miss out on this communication insight. / Amazon; Amazon.com; $10.17





Holiday Gift Guide: For the Kitchen Gadget Lover

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, December 20th, 2010

This person not only loves to cook, but loves all of the little tools and gadgets that come along with it. Open one of their kitchen drawers, and you are bound to find a meat thermometer and a spatula in every color. They always need the next best thing.



www.williams-sonoma.com

www.williams-sonoma.com

Microplane Star Parmesan Grater
This grater will turn a block of Parmesan into perfect cheese slivers for your pasta or salads. Plus, an ergonomic handle and protective cover make it easy to use. / Williams-Sonoma, multiple NoVA locations, www.williams-sonoma.com; $16.95



www.target.com

www.target.com

Kitchen Aid Tools and Gadgets 17 piece Set
This set has everything to make the gadget-lover happy. Spatula, tongs, can opener, measuring cups, and measuring spoons are just a few of the things in this set. / Target, multiple NoVA locations, www.target.com; $38.50



www.pier1.com

www.pier1.com

Flying Fish Whisk
This set includes four cute whisks that are fun and functional. Use them to whisk batter for cakes or make mean sauces for main entrees. / Pier 1 Imports, multiple NoVA locations, www.pier1.com; $5.98



www.walmart.com

www.walmart.com

Weston Roma Express Electric Pasta Machine
This cool electric pasta machine will help make flat noodles, spaghetti or fettucini. Enjoy your favorite fresh pastas at home. / Walmart, multiple NoVA locations, www.walmart.com; $149.99



www.williams-sonoma.com

www.williams-sonoma.com

Daisy-Shaped Egg Fry Rings
Make breakfast as fresh as a flower with these cute daisy-shaped egg rings. Eggs will fit neatly on an English muffin for a quick, quirky breakfast. / Williams-Sonoma, multiple NoVA locations, www.williams-sonoma.com; $15



www.kohls.com

www.kohls.com

OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
Perfect for getting all of the moisture out of lettuces and herbs, this salad spinner is easy to use and dishwasher safe. / Kohl’s, multiple NoVA locations, www.kohls.com; $39.99



www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com

WEDGEY Boiled Egg Slicer
This cute egg slicer is made of hard, durable plastic and will slice your eggs into neat little rings perfect for salads, appetizers and sandwiches. / Amazon, www.amazon.com; $5.05



www.kmart.com

www.kmart.com

Chef’n SleekStor Collapsible Cup Set
Save space in your drawers with this collapsible cup set in Avocado color. Cups are dishwasher safe in top rack. / Kmart, multiple NOVA locations, www.kmart.com; $11.99



www.bedbathandbeyond.com

www.bedbathandbeyond.com

Crème Brulee Torch Set
Make fancy desserts at home with this crème brulee torch set. Caramelize the tops of desserts or melt cheeses in a snap. / Bed, Bath & Beyond, multiple NoVA locations, www.bedbathandbeyond.com; $19.99



www.target.com

www.target.com

Good Cook Bamboo Cutting Board
This bamboo cutting board will add a natural feel to your kitchen. Board can be used for chopping, mincing or serving. / Target, multiple NoVA locations, www.target.com; $9.99





Holiday Gift Guide: For the sports fanatic

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, December 17th, 2010

This loved one occupies a special place in your heart for all the sports tickets they buy you every season and their constant replay of last night’s game. They have all the special channels and sports packages that are available, and their house already looks similar to an old sports history museum. However, that doesn’t mean they have it all.



www.bedbathandbeyond.com

www.bedbathandbeyond.com

NFL Folding Chair
This must-have folding chair will make every game-day tailgating experience a little more comfortable. If Dallas isn’t their favorite team, no worries, it comes in a variety of NFL logos. / Bed Bath and Beyond, multiple NoVA locations; www.bedbathandbeyond.com; $24.99



www.dickssportinggoods.com

www.dickssportinggoods.com

ESPN Under the Lights Turbo Air Hockey Table
This glow-in-the-dark air hockey table will delight any true sports fan and provide fun for the whole family. / Dick’s Sporting Goods, multiple NoVA locations; www.dickssportinggoods.com; $119.98



www.finishline.com

www.finishline.com

Adidas Defender Duffel Bag
This medium-sized bag will be perfect to take to the gym or any pick-up game of basketball or touch-football. Other colors are available. / Finish Line, multiple NoVA locations; www.finishline.com; $30



www.modells.com

www.modells.com

Reebok Washington Capitals 2011 NHL Winter Classic Hooded Sweatshirt
This stylish sweatshirt promises warmth and a proud display of their devotion to the Caps. / Modell’s Sporting Goods, multiple NoVA locations; www.modells.com; $52.99



www.performancebike.com

www.performancebike.com

Polar Bottle Insulated Sport (24 oz) Bottle
Save your friend some money on throwaway plastic water bottles with this insulated 24 oz bottle. It’ll keep liquids hot or cold throughout their daily running or bicycling routine. / Performance Bicycle, multiple NoVA locations; www.performancebike.com; $8.99



www.sportsauthority.com

www.sportsauthority.com

Champion Sports Disc Target
Disc Golf is booming, and if you haven’t heard of it yet, you soon will. This net provides ideal backyard practice to become a pro at real disc golf courses. / Sports Authority, multiple NoVA locations; www.sportsauthority.com; $39.99



www.sportsherway.com

www.sportsherway.com

Rugby Scarf
Customize this rugby scarf with colors and team logos suited to fit your sports-loving friend. Sports games are chilly this season! / Sports Her Way, 3209 Duke St., Alexandria; 703-823-4248; www.sportsherway.com; $24.99



www.marlowsports.com

www.marlowsports.com

Mesh Ball Carrier
This large mesh bag will fit all the balls, Frisbees and other outdoor sports accessories needed for a perfect day at the park or a wonderful weekend getaway. / Marlow Sports Online Store, www.marlowsports.com; $28.99



www.rei.com

www.rei.com

Skullcandy Lowrider Stereo Headphones
If your friend doesn’t appreciate the ear-bud revolution, treat their ears to a comfy set of over-the-ear headphones with excellent sound. They’ll fit right into any sports routine. / REI, multiple NoVA locations; www.rei.com; $34.95



www.footlocker.com

www.footlocker.com

Nike Shox Navina SI – Women’s
This pair of shoes is suitable for just about any type of physical exercise—jogging, cardio classes, biking and, yes, even contact sports. Plus, they’re super durable. / Foot Locker, multiple NoVA locations; 703-331-4997; www.footlocker.com; $109.99






Holiday Gift Guide: For the commuter

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, December 16th, 2010

This poor friend or family member spends a good chunk of their day sitting in rush-hour traffic. It can’t be avoided due to their extreme dedication and enthusiasm for their job, school and hobbies. Although you can’t begin to fathom why they live in Fredericksburg and work in Arlington, there are some ways to brighten the drive. Here are a few Christmas gifts that will help them grin and bear it.



www.bestbuy.com

www.bestbuy.com

1. TomTom – XL 350 TM GPS
Although most people have a GPS these days, it costs as much to update your maps (which is essential for NoVA construction!) as it does to buy a new one. No one likes old technology anyway. / Best Buy, multiple NoVA locations; www.bestbuy.com; $119.99



www.radioshack.com

www.radioshack.com

2. Cobra ESD9290 12-Band Radar Detector
You know they’re speeding somewhere along that commute, so help them out by avoiding costly tickets and speed traps. / Radio Shack, multiple NoVA locations; www.radioshack.com; $99.99



www.sonystyle.com

www.sonystyle.com

3. Bluetooth Headset
Your beloved commuter can talk all he/she wants while keeping two hands on the wheel. / Sony Style, 1100 S. Hayes St., Arlington; 703-416-5187; www.sonystyle.com; $49.99



www.barnesandnoble.com

www.barnesandnoble.com

4. “Hell’s Corner” Audio Book by David Baldacci
This audio book belongs to Baldacci’s bestselling Camel Club series. If your friend enjoys political thrillers, this is a definite match. / Barnes and Noble, multiple NoVA locations; www.barnesandnoble.com; $28.78



www.target.com

www.target.com

5. Carex Lumbar Support Cushion with Memory Foam
This pillow is essential for lower-back support needed after someone spends hours in a car on a daily basis. / Target, multiple NoVA locations; www.target.com; $19.99



www.starbucksstore.com

www.starbucksstore.com

6. Stainless Steel Tumbler by Starbucks (16 oz)
This travel mug is a great complement to any early-morning drive. Plus, for every tumbler sold, Starbucks will contribute $1 to the Global Fund to battle AIDS in Africa. / Starbucks, multiple NoVA locations; www.starbucks.com; $19.95



www.apple.com

www.apple.com

7. Monster iCable 800 for iPhone and iPod
This iCable 800 enables all iPhones, iPods and iTouches to have a direct wired connection to a car’s audio system. Don’t let your friend fumble around with radio stations and static. / Apple Store, multiple NoVA locations; www.apple.com; $19.95



www.thinkgeek.com

www.thinkgeek.com

8. 5.0 Megapixel Digital Spy Camera
A camera this tiny could be fun anywhere, let alone stuck in traffic next to the best of NoVA drivers. This can capture every bit of hilarity without even being caught snapping. / Think Geek, www.thinkgeek.com; $159.99



9. AAA Explorer Road Kit
This extensive AAA kit has everything your commuter could ever need in a bad situation—screwdrivers, flashlights, jumper cables, first aid supplies and more. / Gander Mountain, 3708 Plank Road, Fredericksburg; 540-548-1330; www.gandermountain.com; $44.99



10. Silver Plate Cocktail Shaker
This gift ensures a perfectly mixed cocktail waits at home after wasting two hours in the most awful traffic. He/she may never get those hours back, but a few minutes sipping their favorite cocktail sure helps. / The Hour Cocktail Collection, 1015 King St., Alexandria; 703-224-4687; www.thehourshop.com; $80.





Big-Hit Hump Day Deals

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

Hanky Panky 5-piece thong set,$78 (neimanmarcus.com)

Hanky Panky 5-piece thong set (neimanmarcus.com)

Hello there, shoppers! Don’t you just love getting over the mid-week hump? Well, your Wednesday is about to get that much more wonderful. It may be nasty cold outside, but the deals being extended to us today are blazing hot!

A few examples:

Calvinklein.com is offering 50 percent off all sweaters today, plus 20 percent off luster frames from the home collection.

Neimanmarcus.com has put together a list of “little gems” under $100, and the gift items included are really fun. Plus, the site is offering free wrapping, shipping and returns this year — gotta love that!

Gap is having a holiday sale for a limited time, online and in stores, featuring up to 50-percent discounts on winter apparel for everyone in the fam.

Shoptheshoebox.com is offering 20 percent off site-wide today with the promo code HOLIDAY20.

Bananarepublic.com is offering 35 percent off two regular-priced items today with the code VB2NYXXZV38V.

Neiman’s online outlet, lastcall.com, is also doling out big deals today during their Wow! Sale. You can save big-time site-wide. For instance, enjoy saving an extra 40 percent off on top of significant everyday savings on coats, cashmere sweaters, handbags and more.

The sellout deal today on woot is once again the Dyson DC17 Animal Cyclone Upright, for only $349.99 and five bucks shipping.

Specialicious.com is featuring a massage special today — talk about perfect timing!

And, two other local deals you’ll love: Today from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Periwinkle of Potomac Green is offering shoppers 5o-percent savings on Bella jewelry plus a free cup of peppermint cocoa! And tomorrow, Dec. 16 (what should be my baby girl’s birthday!), until 9 p.m., Madisonbelle in Leesburg is offering bucks for belles, which could award you with $5, $10 or $20 off one regular-priced item. Plus, the store is offering free eye makeovers by Nancy Mark.

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar



Holiday Gift Guide: For the Entertainer

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

This friend or family member loves to have people over. Even last minute guests are always welcome, the more the merrier. And even if paper plates and napkins are used, they have a theme or special design that relates to the occasion.



www.bedbathandbeyond.com

www.bedbathandbeyond.com

Nostalgia Electrics Old Fashioned Movie Time Popcorn Cart
This vendor-style popcorn cart will pop up to 24 cups of fresh popcorn per batch. Perfect for the entertainer who loves to watch movies. / Bed Bath & Beyond, multiple NoVA locations, www.bedbathandbeyond.com; $299.99



www.kohls.com

www.kohls.com

Old Dutch 6-qt. Round Antiqued-Copper Chafing Dish
This elegant chafing dish will add luxury to any table. A water bath design will keep your food warm and moist. / Kohl’s, multiple NoVA locations, www.kohls.com; $199.99



www.williamssonoma.com

www.williamssonoma.com

Footed Serving Bowl
This elegant white earthenware bowl can serve pasta, filled with fruit for your countertop, or used as a focal point on the table. / Williams-Sonoma, multiple NoVA locations, www.williamssonoma.com; $92



www.target.com

www.target.com

Luigi Bormioli Michaelangelo Cake Plate with Dome
This gorgeous glass cake stand is elegant and easy to clean. Use the plate to display your creation and cover with the glass dome to protect the cake from little fingers. / Target, online only, www.target.com; $33.99



www.pier1.com

www.pier1.com

Rattan Chip & Dip Set
This chip & dip set will hold your favorite dip and chips or crackers in a stylish way. The handcrafted basket will look great on your coffee table. / Pier 1 Imports, multiple NoVA locations, www.pier1.com; $25



www.macys.com

www.macys.com

Bella Cucina 13408 Buffet Server, Electric
Keep the buffet warm with this electric server. Three oven-safe pots will ensure that individual dishes stay at the right temperature. / Macy’s, multiple NoVA locations, www.macys.com; $69.99



www.walmart.com

www.walmart.com

Italian Villa Serving Platter
This bright and cheery platter will add warmth to a long winter. The platter is the perfect size for parties. / Walmart, multiple NoVA locations, www.walmart.com; $16.96



www.jcpenney.com

www.jcpenney.com

Chris Madden Corvella Salt & Pepper Shakers
These vintage inspired salt and pepper shakers will add style and elegance to any tabletop. Comes with an antiqued bronze base. / JcPenney, multiple NoVA locations, www.jcpenney.com; $21.99



www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com

Gooseberry Patch 101 Easy Entertaining Recipes
This cookbook has 101 mouthwatering recipes that are easy to make and will impress guests. Every recipe includes a photo. / Amazon.com, www.amazon.com; $10.48



www.potterybarn.com

www.potterybarn.com

Mason Jar Drink Dispenser
This glass drink dispenser is great for serving guests on the deck, porch or beach. Perfect for lemonade or iced tea. / Pottery Barn, multiple NoVA locations, www.potterybarn.com; $69.00





Holiday Gift Guide: The Pet Lover

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, December 14th, 2010

Admit it; your pet is an essential part of your family, just as important as your child (well … maybe not that essential). You want to make sure your snuggly kitten, playful dog or lazy iguana has the best accessories out there. Have your furry friend staying loyal to you before your neighbors catch sight of these gift ideas.



Courtesy of Earthbath

Courtesy of Earthbath

1. Earthbath-Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo (16 oz)
Earthbath specially created this Oatmeal & Aloe itch-relief shampoo to dismiss irritation of dry skin for a beloved furry friend. This all-natural shampoo is soap-free and pH-balanced to clean and deodorize, leaving any pet’s coat looking stunningly clean, fluffy and smelling fresh. / Nature’s Nibbles, Natural Food for Healthier Pets, 2601 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-931-5241; naturesnibbles.com; $14.99



www.zazzle.com

www.zazzle.com

2. Customized Pet T-Shirt
Customize a fashionable t-shirt for a favorite canine. Choose from a wide selection of colors, and even design your own one-of-a-kind theme or use a personal photo. / zazzle.com; $24.35



Bon Ton Pick-Up Bag Kit

3. Bon Ton Pick-Up Bag Kit
Spare a loved one and his or her dog the embarrassment of simply carrying plastic bags for an outing in the park. Help them walk in style with this white bone-shaped carrier with colored dots. The leash clip and roll of 10 plastic bags makes it more convenient for getting down to business. / The Reign of Cats & Dogs, 12 ½ S. King St., Historic Leesburg; 703-669-6920; thereighnofcatsanddogs.com; $13.95



www.barkleysquarebakery.com

www.barkleysquarebakery.com

4. Eton Dog Collar
Make sure the canines in your life are up-to-date with the trends with this comfortable collar featuring fashionable stripes. Not only does this collar come in a variety of colors, the statement-maker is made up of 100-percent recycled plastics. / Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique, 2006 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-548-3644; barkleysquarebakery.com; $12



www.petmac.org

www.petmac.org

5. Purchase a Doggie Treat, and Help Pets in Need
Treat your pet or a friend’s to excellent treats and accessories while helping other pets, too! At Marketplace Petmac & Adoption Center, you will have the opportunity to support local animal rescue organizations by simply buying pet necessities there. / Petmac, 822 N. Kenmore St., Arlington; 703-908-7387; petmac.org



www.petsage.com

www.petsage.com

6. Animal Rescue Kit
Although your friends may love pets, they may have unexpected allergies when around them. Don’t panic; this emergency set includes 12 homeopathic medicines for the most common animal-companion emergencies. / PetSage, 2391 S. Dove St., Alexandria; 703-299-5044; petsage.com; $51



www.wyliewagg.com

www.wyliewagg.com

7. Dog Lessons for People Picture Frame
Decorate a friend’s office with a fond memory of his or her beloved dog, and share, through this intricate wooden frame, life lessons the pet has to offer. After all, “Life is short, pet often.” / Wylie Wagg, 11889 Grand Commons Ave., Fairfax; 703-830-5454; wyliewagg.com; $25.99



www.amazon.com

www.amazon.com

8. 2011 Baby Animals Pocket Engagement Calendar
Make sure your animal fanatic friend keeps his or her life organized accompanied by a wide variety of adorable baby animals. This way you’ll definitely be added to their busy schedule! / Amazon.com; $9.10



BirdsnThings.com

BirdsnThings.com

9. 24” X 24” Sandblasted Mazanita Play Stand
You don’t want to let your beautiful bird into the wild, so bring the wild to your house. This 24” X 24” sandblasted wooden play stand is designed to give your bird the freedom to stretch his or her wings, and climb to new heights. / BirdsnThings.com; $294.84



www.cozywinters.com

www.cozywinters.com

10. Thermo-Kitty Bed
Be sure that your kitten or other small pets have a warm bed to snuggle in for the winter. This bed’s orthopedic foam base makes it extra soft, and the heater is removable so you can toss it into the washer anytime. / CozyWinters; 1-800-340-1528; cozywinters.com; $49.95-59.95





Guess Who’s Getting an REI?

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, December 14th, 2010

REI LogoGreat news for outdoor enthusiasts who every day battle the beltway and 95 South traffic to get home sweet home — and for those who have as strong of an affinity for IKEA as they do for camping equipment: An REI is to open in Woodbridge, at the Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center, this spring.

According to the Washington Business Journal, the two-story, 25,000-square-foot store will not only make shopping in Prince William more fun but it will mean jobs for around 50 people.

Just a little something to brighten this bitter-cold Tuesday for ya!

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

PS. Fellas, if you want to make your ladies extra happy this holiday, don’t miss today’s 20-percent-off sale on boots and booties at Cusp! Plus, free shipping at any price online!



Monday Morning Shopping Smash-up

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, December 13th, 2010

Christophers' Confections at Arfully Gifts & Chocolate

Christophers' Confections at Arfully Gifts & Chocolate

Hello there, shoppers! Only 11 shopping days until Christmas, but don’t fret; as you know, the deals just keep getting better and better.

A few examples: Holiday sweets are now 20 percent off at crateandbarrel.com, select items are currently 30-40 percent off at The Limited, Restoration Hardware is having a Friends and Family Sale (today’s the last day) with 20 percent off everything (use code FFE2006 online), Michael’s has all kinds of promotions in store for us and Pottery Barn Kids has reduced a whole slew of gifts by 20-40 percent! Also, Specialicious has just the deal today to get you back into fighting shape after all of that fudge and fruitcake!

And, of course, here in NoVA, great deals aren’t the only shopping gems to enjoy this week. First, Queen Bee Designs is hosting a Pop-up Shop & Trunk Show Sale at the Hive (1410 Cool Springs Drive, Alexandria) this week throughout the weekend. Not only does this event offer the perfect chance to scoop up some of the super-talented jewelry designer’s best styles at amazing prices  — and with plenty of personal attention — but the hours just about couldn’t be any more convenient. There is early-bird shopping for moms all week from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., plus after-work hours from 5-9 p.m. Then, this weekend, the Hive will be open on Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with hours from noon-5 p.m. on Sunday. The more the merrier. Just remember to RSVP.

Then, this Thursday, Dec. 16, the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria will welcome Artfully Gifts & Chocolate, where there will be a grand opening party from 5-8 p.m., brimming with holiday cheer, featuring bubbly and, you’ve guessed it, chocolates!

Happy shopping!

–Natalie Kaar

PS. Don’t forget that Thursday is also free shipping day! I plan to take advantage of that in Labor & Delivery unless the little one arrives on her own before then — thank goodness for Wifi!



Holiday Gift Guide: For the Cold-Weather Camper

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, December 13th, 2010

Most Virginia hikers plan camping trips for temperate seasons; average temperatures tend to make for a less imposing, more enjoyable trip. On the other hand, some hikers simply don’t have the gear to organize a winter trek. Here are the items said adventure-seekers would need to enjoy the winter wilderness.



www.thenorthface.com

www.thenorthface.com

1. Men’s and Women’s Chilkats
The gear hikers rely on most is their footwear. These insulated boots keep feet warm in temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit, and provide good grip on icy or wet surfaces. / The North Face, Tysons Corner Center, 1961 Chain Bridge Road, McLean; thenorthface.com; 703-917-0111; $90



www.thenorthface.com

www.thenorthface.com

2. Tundra Sleeping Bag
The importance of a warm sleeping bag in cold temperatures cannot be overestimated. This bag will keep its occupant warm in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. / The North Face, Tysons Corner Center, 1961 Chain Bridge Road, McLean; thenorthface.com; 703-917-0111; $249-$259



www.hudsontrail.com

www.hudsontrail.com

3. MSR WhisperLite Internationale
This stove is light and works well in cold temperatures, two characteristics not all camp stoves share. The stove will perform at temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit. / Hudson Trail Outfitters, 9488 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax; hudsontrail.com; 703-591-2950; $89.50



www.ems.com

www.ems.com

4. Smartwool Neck Gaiter
Cold-weather hikers often overlook neck gear. This gaiter is much warmer and far less unruly than a scarf. / Eastern Mountain Sports, 2800 Clarendon Blvd., The Market Common, Suite R550, Arlington; ems.com; 703- 248-8310; $25



www.ems.com

www.ems.com

5. Seirus Combo Clava
The Combo Clava can be worn as a balaclava or be unraveled into a hat with face mask. The hat is ideal for hikers facing cutting wind and snow. / Eastern Mountain Sports, 2800 Clarendon Blvd.., The Market Common, Suite R550, Arlington; ems.com; 703-248-8310; $26.



6. Trail Mix
Trail mix, a snack comprised of non-perishables such as raw nuts, seeds and dried fruits, is ideal for winter campers since it won’t freeze like oranges or apples might. / Ingredients available at local health food stores; prices vary



www.hudsontrail.com

www.hudsontrail.com

7. Men’s and Women’s Arc’teryx Phase SV Crew LS
This thermal top is designed for cold weather and made of a moisture-wicking material that keeps its user dry. / Hudson Trail Outfitters, 9488 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax; hudsontrail.com; 703-591-2950; $69.95



store.colemans.com

store.colemans.com

8. Extreme Cold Weather Gloves
Military surplus stores can often provide the best cold-weather gear. These gloves are soft, durable and, most importantly, fleece-lined. / Coleman’s Military Surplus; store.colemans.com; 1-888-4SURPLUS; $19.95



9. Sealskinz Bootliners
If, for whatever reason, waterproof boots are not taken on one’s camping trip, these socks will serve to line non-waterproof shoes and keep feet warm and dry. / Coleman’s Military Surplus; store.colemans.com; 1-888-4SURPLUS; $14.95



www.sportsimportsltd.com

www.sportsimportsltd.com

10. Polycarbonate Telescoping Snow Shovels
Cold-weather campers can expect to confront deep snow. To help them prepare for it, buy them this lightweight (20 oz) snow shovel, which can be used to dig out a campsite or even build a temporary shelter. / Sports Import LTD.; www.sportsimportsltd.com; $37.95





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