Holiday gift guide 2004

Food

1. Nigella Lawson's kitchenware (See images 1 and 2)
The simple, clean design of culinary queen Nigella Lawson's kitchenware is sure to complement any kitchen. From charming ceramic salt cellars to practical storage jars, Lawson's cookware is sure to please the domestic goddesses on your list. For a great gift that'll be used again and again, buy these measuring cups that strike a great balance between pretty and practical. Pair this gift suggestion with baked goods from your kitchen or a cookbook for a personalized themed gift.

Price tag: $38.
Shop online at: www.chapters.indigo.ca

2. Maple cookbook holder (See images 1 and 2)
If you've ever followed a recipe, you know how challenging it can be keep your pages clean when you have ingredient-filmed fingers. A handy cookbook holder keeps your page so you can concentrate on more important things like getting your culinary creations just right. This maple-based holder from Williams-Sonoma is adjustable to fit various book and magazine sizes and it comes with a handy shield to protect your pages. Pair this gift with a favourite cookbook for a complete package your cooking friends will appreciate time and time again.

Price tag: $55.71 including shipping and handling. *Be sure to click on Canadian Checkout.
Shop online at:www.williams-sonoma.ca

Life

3. Simply...Woman! The 12-week body/mind/soul total transformation program (See images 3, 4 and 5)
For those who are all too familiar with yo-yo dieting, this book (including a DVD workout) will be a welcome relief. More than just another weight-loss book that promises unrealistic weight loss plans, author Crystal Andrus's program offers insights into taking charge of various aspects of your life focusing on body, mind and soul. With this complete approach to creating your own destiny, readers will find encouragement, motivation and something to strive for — a happier, healthier you.

Price tag: $18.86
Shop online at: www.chapters.indigo.ca

4. Agenda/personal organizer (See images 3, 4 and 5)
Electronic gadgets can be fun but there's still much to be said for sticking to simplicity. Forgo a stylus and PDA and opt for the trusty pen and paper instead. When it comes to staying organized, a well-used agenda won't fail. Give a dependable day runner like Aurex's Classic Fact Centre organizer and the recipient will thank you for keeping their life in order — 365 days of the year.

Price tag: $39.91
Shop online at: www.staples.ca

5. Homemakers gift subscription (See images 3, 4 and 5)
It's the gift that keeps on giving all year round (9 times a year as per Homemakers' publishing cycle.) Homemakers magazine is a welcome read to come home to with lots of clever tips and inspirational ideas to help you life the life you want. In every issue, there are several Best-Tested recipes, motivational health and wellness articles and heartwarming stories.

Price tag: $9.99 /1 year subscription
Shop online at: www.homemakers.com

Health

6. Lavender Massage Kit (See images 6 and 7)
Give the gift of sensory pleasure with The Body Shop's relaxing lavender scented massage oil and accompanying products. Frazzled friends will appreciate this de-stress massage kit, containing relaxing lavender-scented massage oil (100 mL) bath fizzies, body lotion (60 mL), an eye mask, and a votive candle.

Price tag: $25.
Shop online at: www.thebodyshop.ca

7. Stott Pilates Stability ball and Core Balance DVD workout (See images 6 and 7)
The buzzword in fitness is "core strength" as the stability ball continues to roll into home gyms everywhere. By using the versatile fitness ball, users activate and strengthen their core muscles. If your favourite workout enthusiast still hasn't caught on to the joys of a fitness ball, get the good times rolling with this gift pack from Stott Pilates. It includes a stability ball, a Core Balance DVD workout, workout poster and an air pump. The stability ball is sure to be a fitness-equipment essential for anyone from beginners to workout buffs.

Price tag: $39.99
Shop online at: www.stottpilates.com

8. A day at the spa
To give the gift of pampering and relaxation, check out SpaCanada.com for information and listings of spas across the country. Contact a spa of your choice and purchase a gift certificate for your stressed-out friend, sister, mother or anyone else on your list who needs a well-deserved break.

Price tag: You decide. TIP: Ask for a price list and choose treatments that are within your budget.
Shop online at: www.SpaCanada.com

9. Book bucks
A gift certificate that'll nurture your friend's love of literature is sure to please. It offers the flexibility for the recipient to choose books that are on his or her must-read list or maybe even discover the work of new authors. Buy a gift certificate online at Chapters.Indigo.ca and the recipient can "shop" online with your credit.

Price tag: Online gift certificates come in $10, $25, $50 and $100 denominations.
Shop online: www.chapters.indigo.ca

10. Holiday baking
Something from the kitchen is often well received with good reason: Loved ones know you've taken time to present them with a personalized gift — and it's especially nice when gifts taste great. There are plenty of beautiful and inexpensive tins at craft and thrift stores to help you to package your offerings in style.

Price tag: You choose.
Online recipes: Rely on the following features that include Homemakers' Best-Tested Recipes.
Gifts from the kitchen
Gourmet gifts

And check out our Baking 101 article for lots of helpful hints.