Deep Dish of Fat

No, I'm not referring to the entire holiday season with that headline. I'm talking about ordering a regional specialty that is so sinful and special and scrumptious that it's worth breaking every diet just to cram it down your face.

Meet Lou Malnati's Chicago Deep Dish Pizza. It's the real deal, with restaurants found only in the Chicago area. The pizza is... remarkable. A buttery, almost biscuit-like crust that's crunchy on the outside and moist inside holds a bounty of goodies ranging from sausage or pepperoni to spinach and veggies. The big construction difference on this deep dish is that the cheese is stuffed the middle and slathered with tomato sauce on top. They come frozen, shipped to your door, and they keep really well in the freezer. Plus, there's no fancy pizza oven required; 450 degrees at about 30 minutes should do it.

With all the mid-west transplants, there's sure to be someone on your list who would simply kvell to receive such carb-loaded bounty. Go to Lou Malnati's and order a bunch for a real taste of Chicago.

Miss Moneypenny

For those guys old enough to remember the real James Bond films (Sean Connery was the ultimate), Miss Moneypenny the sexy flirty secretary will strike a note of yearning nostalgia. And you can keep that nostalgia alive with this witty little gift.

Normally, I'm very careful about giving guys housewares items, basically because they rarely get a kick out of them unless they're extremely domestic or a home design freak. This Miss Moneypenny bowl, however, is a great exception to that rule. This sculptural trough sits on a dresser and holds change or keys from the day, corralling it in one handy place. And the shape makes it easy to empty back into a wallet or pocket. Plus, it says "Miss Moneypenny" on the inside. Really, the sleek polished aluminum looks like a Bond secret weapon, anyway.

The jewelry oriented man could even store his gold in there, creating a "Goldfinger" atop "Miss Moneypenny" dresser statement. Oh, the fun he'll have. At Momastore for just $38.

Portable Scent Solution

You know what I've always found puzzling? The perfume "recommendations" in magazines or on beauty blogs. Scent is so intensely personal that unless you know precisely what someone wears, buying a giftee a random scent is too big a gamble. Especially since I loathe almost all perfume, sans one which I consistently wear (and which, I admit, I have recommended on this blog, figuring that if a fusspot like me could stand it, so could others).

So forget buying perfume. But, you could buy a giftee something to take perfume on the go. I've tried various portable atomizers and have never been impressed. This portable perfume vessel is different. It's designed as a tiny roll-on (like Bonne Bell), and is so small and sleek and stylish you'll want to carry it around. Choose from a bunch of colors and give them out to your girlfriends. They'll love you for it.

These streamlined anti-spritzers are just $38 a pop, which is a pretty decent price point for a unique and stylish gift. Find them at Mollaspace. And, just in case you're interested in what a scent-a-phobe can tolerate, I wear Menthe Fraiche by Heeley (sort of smells like minty green tea).

iPhone: Doing it Old School

I've been waiting and waiting for an iPhone case fun or cool enough to feature on Toad. Most of them have just been a shrug. Then again, I suppose the iPhone 4 is also a shrug... or a curse. Mine is a curse. I have saddled it with an unprintable name, and the thing is always making my life miserable by hanging up on people and spontaneously dialing other people without my direction, permission or knowledge.

But just because my iPhone 4 is evil doesn't mean they're all bad. I'm sure there are some which behave beautifully. And, after all, all the 4s do need cases or they don't get any reception. After much searching, these retro iPhone 4 cases are the best and wittiest ones around. Featured at right is the cassette tape version, but they're available in other equally archaic forms, like Nintendo. They do what every iPhone 4 case is supposed to do: protect it from harm, allow the antennae to work, and keep dirt off the back. At $45 bucks a pop, they're a bit pricey, but you're paying for pure Japanese style here, so I guess sucking it up is in order.

You can find these classic tech cases at Gizmine. I will not be purchasing one, since I'm afraid that sometime soon that $&#*R will be thrown from my speeding car, exploding upon impact with Beverly Blvd.

The Cutest Mail Ever

Every year around this time, the packages and cards come flying in. Most of the cards look the same: photographs of the usual suspect with printed messages (we try to say something funny and bizarre every year).

What if you could send something that really stands out? Check out the World's Smallest Postal Service from Leafcutter Designs. These lilliputian letters are sent directly from the site to the recipients (they'll do bulk mailing for your holiday cards as well as service to select people). They are, as you can clearly see, absolutely adorable. If you don't mind skipping the bragging rights picture, this could be the right holiday card/message solution for you. Plus, they offer tiny packages, too (brown paper, tied up with string). You choose the tiny toy and message in the box, and they send it out. How cute is that?


Go to the Leafcutter site and check out this tiny mail. It's the most adorable way to cut down on paper resources and cut down less trees.

For The Eye Roller

You know exactly who I'm talking about. The eye roller on your holiday list.

Buying a gift for an eye rolling adolescent is virtually impossible to do well (unless you just give cash, which will at least evoke an appreciative grunt or two). They're usually so uncommunicative, so contemptuous, so utterly lost in ennui that it's hard to find something that holds appeal. I say forget it, and go for a gift that gives it all right back. This Eye Clock tells the time literally by rolling its eyes. The left eye is the hour, the right eye positions the minutes. Sometimes they'll roll up, sometimes down, and sometimes they'll even cross (5:35, anyone?). While the teen might stare uncomprehendingly, the adults will enjoy the irony fully. Who said the holidays were just for kids?

This clock doesn't have an alarm. For that, I'm afraid, you'll have to purchase the rolling alarm clock or the helicopter alarm clock. At Uncommon Goods for just $35.

Pictures in a Snap

It seems like every child I run into these days is interested in photography and video. Even little kids. The idea of documenting and displaying reality (or manipulating it, thus turning them into little con artists) holds great appeal for the youngsters, and it sure beats grandma following everyone around with her camera.

So I very much like this digital camera, not just because it's easy to operate, but because it's so specifically kid themed. I mean, come on, it looks like it's been built out of Legos. How cool is that? The effect is at once playful, iconic, and delightfully geeky. After all, we all know an adult who's held rapt by a Lego set. Give this camera to a kid, and they'll be occupied all the way through the holidays. And since an adult is presumably in charge of the computer, it should be easy to weed out those embarrassing shots the child is sure to capture (you stepping out of the shower, for instance).

This camera, at $75, is a bit pricier than some other kid models. But it's about a hundred times cooler, too. Find it at Fred Flare.

Announcing the FIRST EVER Toad Discount Promotion!

I've never done any sort of promotion on Toad, mostly because I was worried it might create a conflict of interest. But, in the interest of supporting fantastic local LA shopping (as in independently owned boutiques), I've decided start a small promotional push of sorts.

So here it goes: mention Find A Toad at Noni on Larchmont Blvd., and you'll receive an excellent 15% off. Noni was just mentioned in my gift guide, and I've handily reprinted that write up for you below. Besides fabulous accessories, Noni boasts local and cutting edge designers. The store's merchandise is great and the owners, Elaine and Megan, are awesome.

Happy shopping, and enjoy your discount!

Noni: A totally favorite local store, Noni offers lots of local designers at pretty affordable prices. The jewelry can be edgy and fun. There are handbags by vegan designers Matt and Nat. The scarves are on point, trendwise, but at lower price points than other stores. And the clothing, if you're so inclined, is really great. Plus, co-owner Noni girls Megan and Elaine are just so cool and nice (a real rarity in this snooty city). Pay them a visit and find the fashion forward friend a gift.

225 N. Larchmont Blvd.

Good Chemistry

I remember reading Harriet the Spy and totally idolizing the chemist Janie. The idea that she was going to blow up the school (or was it the world?) held such great appeal. Of course, I had no chemistry skills and no chemistry set.

What I would have given for this little item! This introductory chemistry set won't encourage your young scientist to blow stuff up, but it will teach basic chemical principles through some fun (and harmless) experiments. Many of the exercises are disguised as "magic tricks" to share with an audience, guaranteeing lots of live entertainment long after the holidays have ended and dark winter has resumed. This set is fairly serious (some of it involves flames), so it's really for kids 10 and up (unless you have some genius seven year old who's very neat and trustworthy). Overall, this is a far better way for kids to spend time than vegging out in front of the tv for the remainder of holiday break.

At around ninety bucks, this set isn't cheap. But it was very highly rated as one of the best science toys around. Buy it and watch the science aptitude soar. At Museum Tour.

MORE of Toad's Shop Local LA!

Now we're going to get to the skinny. Let's talk about food and drink, obsessions in LA rife with irony in this weight conscious land. Food and drink are holiday necessities. Everyone appreciates them. Parties demand them. And here's where in LA to obtain them.

Get Stuffed This Holiday Season

Joan's on 3rd: Joan's is an LA institution. The food is very good (the baked goods are heavenly; check out the nuts at right), there's an excellent assortment of gourmet items for sale, and it provides great people watching while you shop. What it doesn't provide? A smooth shopping experience. Naive that I was, I supposed that its chaotic check out system was due to cramped conditions. However, the selfsame chaos continues even after its extensive remodel, so what do I know? Still, a selection of food toted to someone's house over the holidays is sure to get you major points.
8350 W. Third St.

Surfas: This emporium of all things food is a combo gourmet victuals outlet and restaurant supply house. Its selection of cheese, charcuterie, olive oils, vinegars, pasta, and frozen goodies (incredible ice cream, butter, and appetizers all come to mind) are unparalleled. Plus, you can pick up baking supplies for the most rocking holiday cookies in town. Seriously, this place has just about everything. Plus, ample parking. Plus, a cafe where you can buy an excellent lunch for yourself. What's not to like?
8777 W. Washington Blvd, Culver City

Saveurs: The French know how to cook, and the couple running Saveurs amply prove that point. Saveurs pops up at farmer's markets around town, proffering imported merguez sausages, real macarons, plus homemade deliciousness to satisfy the Julia Child in you (you know: the Julia Child in you who just wants to eat French food, not prepare it). From pate and quiche to savory stews and sides, Saveurs offers copious holiday offerings. And if you order online, it's even easier to keep you and yours supplied with yumminess for the holidays. Did I mention they deliver? Go online NOW and check it out.

Andrew's Cheese Shop: Out on Montana, there's a powerful amount of dairy waiting for you. Andrew's  (that's Andrew himself pictured at right) is a newer addition to LA's love of the fromage, and it's a good one. They're generous with their time and knowledge. And the selection is first rate.

728 Montana Ave., Santa Monica

The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills: Yes, it smells. Actually, that's an understatement: it stinks. But it stinks so good in there, like a medley of age and mold made into culinary art. Cheese this good isn't for everyone, but for those who crave it, the olde Cheese Store is a great place to get it. Bring an assortment to a party. And ignore the complaints of the tiresome lactose intolerant. Let them eat plain crackers.
419 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills


Wally's: There must be revelry during the holidays, and nothing says revelry like booze. Luckily, no one does booze quite like Wally's. Its baskets, assortments of alcoholic and digestible offerings, are the stuff of legend, excellent gifts for friends and acquaintances alike. While I normally think of these baskets as being best for clients and other business, I'm sure you can think of someone who'd like a basket of Super Tuscans, or a Tequila sampling, or perhaps some champagne for the new year. Advil for the hangover is extra.
2107 Westwood Blvd.

Holiday Shop Local LA Gift Guide Part III

As you read this, Black Friday is approaching. That's the day when apparently all these poor, hapless shoppers run out the day after Thanksgiving, get trapped in the mall, and cry. But there's no need for that if you live in LA. Here at Find A Toad, there's plenty of great shopping destinations, and NONE of them involve a mall!

We've already explored stuff for the home and accessories. Now, it's on to the more personal side of gift shopping. Beauty and health are of paramount importance in this most shallow of cities, and luckily LA offers a plethora of options for giftees to look and feel their very best.

Beauty and Health

Healing Hands: This mini massage chain is an excellent resource for good, competent massage in a clean setting. They tout different styles, but I've mostly had swedish with maybe a little deep tissue thrown in. The staff is unfailingly professional. And it's usually easy to obtain a last minute session. Did I mention the prices? $55 for an hour is a great price. Buy a friend a session or two for the gift of relaxation that'll last through the year.
303 S. Crescent Heights Blvd, 323-782-3900
414 N. Larchmont Blvd., 323-461-7876

Olympic Spa: The korean spa is an LA institution, really a must have experience. True, it's not for the shy or faint of heart, since everyone is stark naked. Women wander in various states of undress. A popular treatment here involves you or your giftee naked and face down on a slippy bed, being scrubbed to within an inch of your life by an older korean woman wearing a black bra and panties. It sounds far kinkier than it is. The result is the cleanest you've ever felt. Every bit of nasty old dead skin is gone, leaving you and yours with an entirely fresh epidermis. Plus, you get access to the many pools and saunas. A gift certificate from here is always appreciated.
3915 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-857-0666

A Facial from Arielle: Arielle at Club Prive gives the best facial in LA. Her methods are up to date in terms of using oxygen to refresh and electric pulse to disinfect, but she's not jumping on every skin trend bandwagon. See, she doesn't have to. Arielle has the hands, and these hands massage and coax tension from your face, while encouraging much needed lymphatic drainage. It's basically 90 minutes of bliss. Even the extractions are quick and efficient, so that you can move on to the heated mitts to moisten your hands while you lie under a mask and nap. Buy someone a facial from Arielle and you'll have a friend for life.
310-470-4708

Scentbar: Perfume for someone else can be a tricky proposition, but the selection at Scentbar might make it easier. This utilitarian yet luxe white space offers virtually every cult scent in the universe. You'll find none of that department store nastiness here. Some of the brands can be found other places (Barney's comes to mind), but the help at Scentbar is so excellent and attentive, I don't see why anyone would purchase perfume anywhere else. And if you already know what you're looking for, have it sent through the website.
8327 Beverly Blvd.

Larchmont Beauty: Time after time, this crammed little beauty supply receives serious accolades. If there's a new hit product, chances are it's already on the shelves. It's very easy to fill a beauty basket for someone in a matter of seconds (and just as easy to empty your wallet in the same amount of time). With entire lines of Bliss, Ole Hendriksen, Hauschka, Fresh, Nars, and Stila, both body and face are beautifully served. A word of warning: self control is hard to come by in there.
208 N. Larchmont Blvd.

Fred Segal Beauty: The Santa Monica locale offers a huge beauty section, packed with cult products and lovely ways to wrap them. The products cost what they cost, although I always suspect there's a price increase just for the store. Still, it's such a pleasant shopping experience. An excellent westside option
500 W. Broadway

Exercise Gift Certificates to Pure Barre, Pilates Plus, or the Bar Method: I've tried all of these classes. They all work just fine, boast various and convenient locations around town, and work for both beginners and experts alike. Relying on isotonic movements, they have a fairly decent learning curve. It's difficult to hurt yourself in these classes, which is good since you'd probably prefer that your gift not cripple someone. A great New Year's gift for a person who really keeps her resolutions.

The Gift of the Circus: For the fitness enthusiast in your life, a gift of Aerial Fitness and Conditioning classes at Cirque School LA just might open the door to a whole new world of exercise. Taught by true circus pros in an incredible lofty space in Hollywood, these classes combine old fashioned skills like rope climbing and sit ups with basic trapeze and fabric moves (pictured at right). This class whips you into shape FAST, and prepares those who've caught the Cirque bug for dedicated trapeze (Cirque du Soliel style, not flying) or fabric classes. Seriously, it's a blast. Sign up online and GO!
5640 1/2 Hollywood Blvd.

Toad's Shop Local LA Holiday Gift Guide Continues!

I've always been of the mind that putting together a basic outfit is easy, but accessorizing is hell. Still, I personally love it when people give me accessories, and in my experience most giftees feel the same way. Of course, most great accessories aren't cheap (and why would you give something crummy, anyway?), but they are necessary, since a beautiful scarf or hat or belt often makes an outfit. Plus, buying someone really special an equally special Comme des Garcons wallet might cost you, but that gift's guaranteed to last them for years.

In this Accessory category, I've included jewelry, too. And keep in mind: jewelry doesn't have to cost a mint to make an impact.

Local LA Accessory Shopping

Ten Over Six: This wonderful boutique totally filled an LA shopping hole. Artsy, edgy, and dog friendly, the designer/owners have filled this store with cult brands like Rachel Comey, Lizzie Fortunato, Comme des Garcons, and their own fabulously inventive labels. It's so carefully curated that they even stock a few cosmetic items from hard-to-find brand Rodin. Does any of this come cheap? Not really. But if you need to please that fussy fashionista on your gift list, you could do no better than Ten Over Six's Document Clutch (pictured at right). It's total genius.
8425 Melrose Ave.

Lost and Found: I warned you. This string of stores on a Hollywood block pretty much covers all the bases, and thus might be mentioned in most categories. Featured today is the amazing selection of gorgeous scarves, wallets, handbags, and jewelry, many made by local designers. To browse through the scarf selection is to appreciate the fine art of accessorizing; they come in every colorway and size. The bags and wallets, many by Italian designers Il Bisonti and Sissi Rossi, are super expensive (you've been warned) but are classic and gorgeous. This is stuff for the discriminating woman who keeps her style classic. But, there's also strings of African beads and fun beaded bags to be had for far less.
6414 Yucca St.

Noodle Stories: This store is the snottier, even more upscale version of Lost & Found. Located in an all white, gallery-like setting on Third St., this boutique has upscale accessories aplenty. It's simply awash in silk and cashmere, and everything is impeccable. This is not a store for the youth-oriented. No, this is how I would like to dress in later middle-age if I had a ton of money to spend. Still, if you need to buy an incredibly tasteful gift for an older, super classy woman (who's partial to the style of Margiela, Yohji, or Urbanati), this store would be my go-to destination.
8323 W. Third St.

Persimmon Handpicked Objects: Hardly anyone knows about this store. Pity, since so many one-designer dedicated jewelry stores have closed up (Me and Ro comes to mind), and Persimmon carries the goods. Ten Thousand Things, Jamie Joseph, Melissa Joy Manning, and other brands are all featured here. You know, Barney's carries a lot of the same designers, but they're far nicer at Persimmon. And you don't have to spend an absolute fortune here. This so fashionable and of the moment Joseph Brooks black tiger's eye bracelet is $80 (pictured at right), and seems superior to much of the other similar dreck available in bulk around town.
310 Flores St. (off Beverly Blvd.)

Kitson: So, speaking of similar dreck... yes, I know, Kitson is obnoxious and odious, a palace devoted to celebrity ass-kissing of the worst sort. But it's also useful. It's just so crammed full of accessories that it would be irresponsible of me to not give it a mention. Sure, it's trendy and full of the most empty headed sales help ever. Yes, the paparazzi are always stationed outside. But it is a local store. Really, it is, like it or not. Need a few doodads for a teen? Go to the Robertson location midday on a weekday and pick up a couple of things. It'll be a hit, I promise.
115 S. Robertson Blvd.

OK: Already mentioned for its housewares, OK features a lovely, very modernist jewelry selection. It also has plenty of personal accessories, many of which are quite minimalist and appropriate for just about anyone with a pulse. Wallets, key chains, and well designed portable tools are all on display here. And again, there's the jewelry. Much of it is recycled gold and conflict free diamonds (the emphasis here is on "conflict," the "free" has nothing to do with the prices). While much of the wares by such designers as Sarah Graham (her earrings are pictured at right), Pippa Small, and Zara Schofield (among many others) don't come cheap, there are inexpensive surprises like the $35 "Wish" necklace crafted from 14k gold and red thread.
3303 W. Third St.
1724 1/2 Silverlake Blvd

Fred Segal: An LA institution, the two Fred Segal outposts are actually completely different entities. No matter: for our purposes they are the same. One is in West Hollywood, one in Santa Monica. The Santa Monica one is bigger. Both carry tons of stuff, with less obnoxiousness than Kitson. I suppose you could get all your shopping done at either store, although it would be an expensive holiday season, indeed. From beaded baubles to hot handbags to cult cosmetics, Fred offers it all. Plus, there's always lunch to be had.
420 and 500 Broadway, Santa Monica
8100 Melrose Ave.

Bead Boutique: Give the ultimate personal gift and make people jewelry. At least, that's the main goal behind Third St.'s Bead Boutique. There are other bead stores, but they're quite crowded and unpleasant. This store offers an edited variety of bead, chain, and jewel choices. They'll help you out. And, they offer ready-to-buy creations that are lovely and quite reasonably priced (many under $100). Alternatively, you could choose and create a beaded jewelry making kit for a child on your list, so they can make their own accessories.
8313 W. Third St.

Noni: A totally favorite local store, Noni offers lots of local designers at pretty affordable prices. The jewelry can be edgy and fun. There are handbags by vegan designers Matt and Nat. The scarves are on point, trendwise, but at lower price points than other stores. And the clothing, if you're so inclined, is really great. Plus, co-owner Noni girls Megan and Elaine are just so cool and nice (a real rarity in this snooty city). Pay them a visit and find the fashion forward friend a gift.
225 N. Larchmont Blvd.

The Toad's Fabulous and Selective Shop Local LA Holiday Gift Guide

Whew, now that's a headline. Once again, I present my very edited, very opinionated, very particular guide to the best gift stores in Los Angeles. I make no apologies for my preference for the eastside, although you'll find recommendations for all over L.A. proper. If you live outside of L.A., this guide could still prove useful if you visit this smoggy city (plus, many of these stores have online shopping, anyway, so please don't feel left out).

So, without further ado...

House and Decor

A+R: Somehow, A+R always has something interesting and different. Over the last two years I've posted many things found on its site. The store specializes in mostly modernist gifts, many of which are quite useful and beautiful to boot. Even the jewelry is quirky and interesting (a broken quail egg lined with gold and hanging from a fine chain was a standout). Remember great products like the Pantone mugs, Joseph Joseph kitchen products, and the Peace vase? A+R had them first. And it offers a decent price range, too. (At right, Eco-Fuel Lamps)
1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Happy L.A.: Happy is a newer store on a hip stretch of Hollywood Blvd. in Los Feliz, just east of Vermont. It's carefully curated for hip, sometimes edgy, and reasonably priced gifts for just about everyone on your list. Kids might appreciate the Dreamlets dolls or the colorful and classic wooden toys. Adults like the edgy Fred line of smart ass house and office ware. And, if you're looking for affordable art, check out the intimate gallery space upstairs, where works on paper by known LA artists are available for affordable prices.
4675 Hollywood Blvd.

Heath Ceramics: Heath's a big deal. It's been around since 1948, and its tile and tableware are classic, classy, and mesh seamlessly into just about any decor. Its fabulous flagship store is a wonderful spot to find vases and decorative pieces that could become heirlooms. Best of, the SALE runs November 19-28, which means you can pick up many gifts for less. So excellent. (At right, Ruby Red vase)
7525 Beverly Blvd.

Ige: This sleek boutique is one of my favorite stores. Owner Helene has a fabulous creepy cool aesthetic, and fills her space with wonderful mobiles, pillows, and other decorative wares designed by her. She was one of the first storeowners to stock John Derian in L.A., and she also boasts curious and charming vintage pieces (the china animals are standouts) you just won't find anywhere else. Please, shop here!
7382 Beverly Blvd.

TableArt: Ok, I've previously stated that the goods at TableArt make the housewares section at Barney's look like sale day at Walmart, and I stand by that statement. This store has, by far, the nicest china, flatware, and table accessories I've ever seen, anywhere. Yet, amongst the outrageously priced Ted Mueling and Meissen vases, there are wonderful affordable items. Don't be intimidated. The staff is great, and the gift wrapping job (using fabric) is truly luxe.
7977 Melrose Ave.

OK: Have modernist sensibilities, or know someone who does? Then OK is the perfect place for your gift shopping. Iittala, Alessi, Dansk, and other fabulousness is available. Plus, every holiday season OK stocks wonderful smaller items, many of them both edgy and practical, which are often pre-wrapped and ready to give. This store makes shopping a snap. And, it now has a 3rd St. and a Silverlake location, for even more convenience. If you're feeling particularly flush, check out the jewelry selection. So pretty. (At right, cast iron hammer bottle opener/ice breaker)
8330 W. Third St.
1724 1/2 Silverlake Blvd.

Gary Gibson: Gibson's studio is where he works on his interior design business. It's also a wonderful, airy curiosity shop. Trying to locate a vintage pencil sharpener, old globes, vintage tools, or other collectibles for an interesting giftee? Just take a leisurely browse through Gibson's store. You're sure to find something (you'll probably find something for yourself, too; you've been warned).
7350 Beverly Blvd.

Inheritance: Another store along the same vintage lines as Gibson, but with a smaller sensibility. Mixing old and new items, Inheritance has a wonderful barware selection. There's also one of a kind items like brass ashtrays, sterling silver cufflinks and tuxedo sets, and lovely newer plates and vases. It's small, it's intimate, and it's reasonable.
8055 Beverly Blvd.

Potted: Head over to Atwater Village for one of the greatest outdoor decor stores anywhere. Yes, there's lots of pots. There's also a fabulous succulent selection, tons of garden accessories, quirky fountains, and the most wonderful women to help you (the Garden Tarts). They also make stepping stones to order, using vintage tile pieces (I actually have these in my yard, and can attest to their excellence). You can even design and create your own arrangement for the green thumb on your list. (At right, exclusive to Potted Circle Pot)
3158 Los Feliz Blvd.

Rolling Greens: Another temple of gardening fantasy. With both an enormous Culver City and smaller West Hollywood location, this store caters to all things plants. Culver City has an insane orchid selection, from which you may cherry pick and turn into an amazing one of a kind living arrangement. Plus, there's tons of pots and accessories, making this more than just a gardening store. Not as quirky as Potted, but perfect for the more formal giftee.
9528 Jefferson Blvd.
7505 Beverly Blvd.

Lost & Found: This store fits into many categories, mostly because it's about four stores in a Hollywood Row. Owner Jamie has impeccable taste and an eclectic sensibility, and her housewares include wonderful pillows, Missoni blankets and throws, interesting table accessories, and lovely art. Is it cheap? Well, no. But you might find things here you just won't find anywhere else.
6413 Yucca St.

Tortoise: Located on the ever hip stretch of Abbot Kinney, Tortoise is devoted mostly to Japanese items. Many of them are quite lovely and special; a handmade tea canister is particularly lovely, if a bit dear at $175. Not everything, however, is quite that costly. Tortoise makes perfect sense for classic asian devotees.
1342 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Next up: Accessories!

Shine A Little Golden Light

Part of being a great gift giver is giving people things they just won't buy for themselves. There are so many items out there that look wonderful, but seem an indulgence. And that's where the wily gift giver can really make a splash.

This Etch candleholder is a terrific example. It's lovely and just the right size for a single candle. And while its frothy surface of etched pattern could be frumpy, its geodesic shape gives it a modernist flair. This piece would look perfect gracing a formal or casual table, and the warm brass benefits both modernist and more classical tastes. Plus, all those little holes let the candlelight play in a beautiful way, casting light and shadow throughout the meal. While these candleholders would look great in groups (and indeed are designed to link together), a single one would work wonders when combined with other items in a playful dining montage. It would even look nice on a bedside table.

At $55, the Etch isn't a super bargain, but it's a quality piece (and not something most people would buy for themselves). Find it at Design Within Reach. And shine a little light for someone you love, or at least like.

A Pretty Squirrel Necklace

The holidays are about to hit you right between the eyes. Are you ready? The Toad's here to help you shop online, shop affordably, shop creatively, and make the most of this frenzied time.

Jewelry buying is always a hard one. I'm not talking about fine jewelry your significant other might buy you, I'm talking about more quirky stuff for a funky friend or aunt, someone whose taste runs to the ultra cool or bohemian, and isn't going to be happy with anything found at the mall (then again, if you read this blog, you're probably not happy with much at the mall, either). I'm rather partial to Haoshi's Animal necklaces. Each pendant is cast in resin, then beautifully wrapped in a black box decorated with mini black roses. The squirrel is featured here, looking ready to find every nut (and you know there's a ton of those gathered at your house for the holidays). There's other animals, too, like elephants (for a Republican?), giraffes, frogs, and a delicate deer.

This is an unusual piece of jewelry that's also impervious to punishment. You could even match the animal to the giftee, as an animal totem of sorts. Find this little zoo at A+R.

Good Stuffing

Yes, I know you were hoping for some fancy or famous Thanksgiving stuffing recipe, but you're SOL. I like to cook, but I'm not a Thanksgiving food fan. All that famine food still tastes of Pilgrim desperation to me, no matter how much you dress it up, gourmet style.

No, I'm talking handy and useful stocking stuffers here. Stuffers for kids are easy: throw in a marshmallow gun and a couple of candy bars and you're fine. Adults, though, require some attention. Items should be useful but still well-designed, things grown ups might use and appreciate, though wouldn't think to buy. This year, Container Store has turned out to be an excellent source. Take these bag caps, cleverly designed to corral all the open bags of food you have in your pantry, keep them fresh, and make them easy to pour (for super simple access to those christmas M&Ms). Or, a fingertip holder clip for yanking those hot plates out of the microwave (yes, I know those plates aren't supposed to get hot, but try telling that to the person who just burnt their fingerprints off on a microwaved plate). And, if the fingertips do sizzle, an old-fashioned ice bag soothes and heals (and I bet these bags work better than that bag of frozen peas that gets slapped on every wound over here at Toad Hall).

Any of these things would be a great stuffer, eventually much appreciated by an adult. Add a good book or too, and you're done with the good stuffing. Check out all the possibilities at The Container Store.

Act Like a Child

In today's bizarre parenting universe, expectations of children have gone haywire. Either we indulge in "self-esteem building" exercises and praise everything they do, or we give them the crowded agendas of fully grown adults and expect them to cope. Neither is correct.

So, here's a guide to being immature. Seriously, it's The Encyclopedia of Immaturity, devoted to silly childish activities embraced everywhere. Requiring very little fancy equipment (most immature tricks are self-powered), this book encourages kids to practice the fine art of getting a grass blade to squeak, faking a creditable sneeze, and other ridiculous (and maybe annoying) past times. Feel free to participate in the action yourself, or close the door and leave them be. It makes a killer birthday present for a child who perhaps takes life just a bit too seriously.

The charms of this book, of course, depend on your tolerance for silliness too. I mean, in my household we find farts funny, so I guess we're pretty immature already. This guide to goofiness is just $19.95 at Young Explorers. 

A House We Can All Afford

One of the great holiday traditions is making a gingerbread house. Unfortunately, I've never participated in this great tradition, since my baking skills are only so-so, and my construction skills are at a rudimentary preschool block level.

But, my inadequacy shouldn't deny my child one of the holiday season's offerings, right? I was flipping through the King Arthur Flour catalog (yes, they do sell flour, lots of flour, but they also sell all things baking), and I came across this Gingerbread House Making Kit. And get this: there's NO baking required! It's the ultimate cheat, with pre-baked and shaped gingerbread, a special tray to hold the structure steady, and tons of icing and candy. Because you know, your kid doesn't care about the shaping and baking part; he just wants to dress it up and eat the candy.

You won't need to take out a second mortgage for this house. It's just $16.95. That's a bargain for a full afternoon of messy, sugary fun. Find it at the venerable King Arthur site.

The Toad Says "Boo" to the Switch Witch

Parenting in L.A. means putting up with a lot of helicopter parents. They mean well, they really do, but their collective issues, fears and stuff mean that they try to control every little thing in their kids' lives.

Take Halloween, for instance. It's already been somewhat ruined by the idea that kids in masks might get abducted by creepy adults in masks (a completely debunked fear; Halloween was recently named the safest night of the year for kids). Now, parents trail after their children, controlling the trick or treating on every level. Who will TP the neighbor's house? Who will experience the blast of being sans parents, outside, at night, for a brief 45 minutes. Not our kids. Sad.

But you know what's even sadder? Now the parents control the candy consumption through a bogus new myth called the Switch Witch. The idea is that the kids can eat candy up through Halloween, but after that must leave their hard earned sugar on the front porch, for the Switch Witch to whisk away and replace with a toy. Huh? Really? Whatever happened to just letting the kid keep the candy? What's the worst thing that could happen? Sugar highs? A few spoiled dinners? Halloween candy consumption is not only a childhood tradition, but it's an excellent way to find out if your child can delay gratification. My kid, for instance, will stash the stuff and dole it out to herself over weeks. What's wrong with that? And why, really, would I ever take the candy away from her and replace it with some crappy toy made in China?

And you know what's really at the bottom of this Switch Witch nonsense? Parents who can't control themselves. Yep, the Switch Witch is simply an extension of their sugar-craving, chocolate-seeking, food-issue suffering tendencies. The parents want the candy out of the house so they won't eat it. That's just so pathetic. So I say "boo" to the Switch Witch. You want to get rid of that candy? Show some character and have your kids donate it to the troops overseas. God knows they could use a little sweetness.

Bad Idea

Sometimes, there's a fashion item that's just so bad, I have to comment. Last time, it was the "harem pants" jeans, a slouchy crotched pant that was guaranteed to be unflattering on everyone. They were the great fashion leveler, and the only reason I could think of to purchase them was if you needed a little extra room for jumbo-sized Depends.

But these pants make me shudder. Produced by Marc Jacobs (a designer I think is fairly overexposed), these "Relaxed Cropped Jeans" manage to combine some of the worst fashion of the last forty years. I mean, jeez, check them out! It's as if a pair of super high waisted pleated khakis worn by a fifty-something midwestern man mated with the most heinous LL Bean mom jeans, to produce the most heinous pair of pants in history. Think about it: these jeans are modeled on a fourteen year old girl who only ingests romaine lettuce and Ex-Lax, yet they still manage to make her look like a walking dump. Just think what they'd look like on you.

Obviously, this is not a recommendation, so there is no link. There is no reason to purchase these, unless you know a cross-dressing fifty-something midwestern man who might appreciate them.

Irresistible Forces

There's all kinds of wild games and toys out there, involving batteries and outlets, assembly and parental cursing. But what I've found is, in the end, nature's forces often deliver the most interesting toys.

I'm a big fan of magnetic toys, for instance, and so is my daughter. Bucky Balls (that collection of tiny magnetic balls) have been a hit around here. But this magnetic putty has definite possibilities. This picture makes it look like a rock, but it's actually a moldable putty. It's accompanied by a very powerful magnet; hold the square away from the putty, and watch the putty "reach," tentacle-like, to try and join it. Fascinating. Of course, the putty's good for all the usual magnet tricks, sending paper clips rocketing toward it, getting it stuck to the fridge, etc. Just don't get it near your credit cards, or I have a feeling they'll be permanently de-magnetized.

Find this very animated "rock" at Uncommon Goods. At just $14 a pop, it's a pretty cheap elemental thrill.