Shop Local

Every year I swear I won't leave my Christmas shopping until the last minute, but once again, 8 days before Christmas and I still have shopping to do. I'm hoping to avoid the mall entirely and hit up a few local shops for all of my remaining gifts.

First stop is Livingstone & Cavell Extraordinary Toys. This independent toy store is a blast for kids and adults. I'm hoping to pick up the old school Fisher Price record play for my nephew. I remember watching a family video of my 3rd birthday and my brother helping me open my gifts. When he unwrapped it he exclaimed (with a little lisp) "It's a recorrrrrrd player! This thing weighs a tonne and TWO halves!"

On second thought, I might just give it to him instead.

Next on my list is Steeling Home. This store is my go-to gift store. They carry great jewellery, trinkets and home goods. I usually end up spending 20 minutes just looking at their stationary and cards.

For clothes, I'm a big fan of Purr (for me) and Purr Petite (for the little guys). Look at this dapper young lad in Axel and Hudson.

Finally, you can never go wrong with gifts from Gravity Pope, Reid's or Choklat.

If you're like me and can't stand the mall at the best of times this ought to help. Have a great weekend and happy last minute shopping!