Type-O-Smith: gifts

Gifts for the friend who is happiest in the kitchen, loves telling you about the vineyard the grapes were grown on, and has had you over for a home-cooked dinner five times more than the amount you've had them for take out or ramen. Give them something they can use, that they will love, and that you can reap some benefits from!

Enjoy this thirst and hunger inducing gift guide...

This recipe box ($135) is the sweetest way to store old family recipes, or new recipes that they are hoping to pass down to the next generation!

An eco-grill for the griller/tailgater in your life - no need to sacrifice quality for location ($99.95)

Whiskey rocks ($19.50) - they won't dilute your drink and they'll make you look really cool.

The perfect cutting board ($48) for anyone who may be pining for an old home-state (available in all 50 states)

A sign ($40) for the chef's kitchen (not that anyone will need the reminder!)

A t- shirt ($20) for the microbrew lover who lives to share a strong pint and some good conversation. If you are feeling really generous you could buy them this assorted beer tasting set ($59.95) as well!

Stylish measuring cups ($24) that you will never want to take off your counter top.

Kitchen towels ($28) with wine and good pairings?! Genius!

If you know me - chances are you know my affinity for Fox's mustard ($6.99) - there is nothing this powerful mustard can't make extra delicious! Also - pretty much anything from Woodstock Farmer's Market is ridiculously delicious and wonderful.

This little chalkboard pot ($18) is customizable and adorable!

Beer Lover's Cheese Set ($79.99) speaks for itself...

The most adorable salt and pepper shakers ($48) in history.

A jug of Vermont maple syrup ($68) sure to keep any pancake flipper happy for months.

Two of the most coveted cook books that will ever exist (in my humble opinion)... The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook ($19.75) & Home Made ($26.40)

If you are still struggling to meet your gifting needs here's a couple next steps:

You can't beat a subscription to Cook's Illustrated ($25 for one year) to help supply kitchen inspiration year round.

With flavors like dill pickle and pesto Parmesan any flavor fiend would surely enjoy some "Gourmet Roasted Happiness" from the Peanut Roaster

There is also always Murray's cheese and charcuterie or The Formaggio Kitchen which will both provide you with delicious gifts for everyone you know!

If you are still feeling lost in a "foodie" world - find them a local cooking class and sign them up! Every chef loves to learn a new skill.

Happy Shopping!

I am so lucky to have the love that I have in my life, and to me, Valentine's day is just another day to celebrate that love.

Here are some perfect things and places to go and be for the ideal Valentine's day:

For the person with the ability to splurge... go the most romantic place on earth, Deetjen's Big Sur Inn. I took the picture above when Anthony and I visited last June, I can't even comprehend how magical it would be this time of year...
If you are a local Boston resident, and you are anything like me you will stay home and order in! If you are looking to head out though I would suggest the classic french intimate dining of Petit Robert we have one right down the street and it just always feels special whenever we go!
If you are looking to get a little something for your parents of friends I would suggest these adorable heart shaped handwarmers! They are so cute and inexpensive!
I always find that a heartfelt card is just the absolute best thing to get anyone.. here are some of my favorite quirky cards for the one you love from Wit & Whistle! I love the mix tape card with a tailored playlist and burned CD (scary that this could be considered retro now)
Better than any present I can think of - Make a donation in someone's name! I always think that's just the kindest and most thoughtful gift!

Go spread the love folks!

Holiday Gift Guide - Food and Drink

Every day's the 14th!