Thursday, November 22, 2012

Even small gifts can say thank you

Let's play devil's advocate. You don't plan to thank the service personnel in your life. In all honesty, will the etiquette police really show up at your door? Will they arrest you if don't hand that envelope of cash to your manicurist? Will Ricardo, your hairstylist, chop off your hair in a horrid style on your next visit if you forget the holiday tip? Let's hope not, but it is the season for giving and remembering those nice people who make life easier for you. Instead of showing them the money, a personal gift displays your gratitude.

A traditional tree adornment from centuries past, a glass ornament is still a valued present. Coton Colors' Professions and Obsessions line ($18.95) features hand-painted ornaments with a satin finish, topped with a coordinating ribbon. For no additional charge, you can get it personalized at the Tampa store or online. The ornaments — some are also available at Dillard's — carry the titles Best Babysitter, Best Dentist, Best Coach, Best Mom, Born to Fish, Born to Cook, King of the Grill, and the list goes on.

Halloween may trump with the highest candy sales, but sweets during the holidays also are a time-honored tradition. According to CandyHistory.net, 52 percent of U.S. adults prefer chocolate over other types of candy. Debbie's Chocolate Delight in Tampa knows that very well. It has been in business for 20 years, providing high-quality American-made, preservative- and peanut-free chocolate. Christmas tree or gingerbread men ($1.50 to $2) pops and the Hanukkah Dreidel Oreo Cookie ($1.50) are a few of our favorite things. Co-owner Marianne Setteducato says the company can create molds specific to the recipient's occupation.

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