See mom? These flowers never die!

My mom always tells my dad not to get her flowers because "flowers only die." However, I've always suspected that she secretly likes getting flowers, and in fact, wants people (especially my dad) to buy them for her. Then again, my mom is pretty determined in her wishes, so maybe not.

Anyhoo, after a tip-off from Apartment Therapy, I spotted these gorgeous crepe paper flower kits from Martha Stewart. Not only will they last longer, maintain their vibrant colors, and never need watering (in fact, watering would be bad), but they're less expensive (kits start at $12.99) and make a great rainy-day weekend project. All that's needed is the addition of a chic vase.

Royally yours

Two posts in one day! I guess I'm just spilling over with gifts I love.

And speaking of love, anyone who remembers my love of all things British will understand why I must post about the great designs over at Pintuck (via Print & Pattern). Check out their "Made in England" tea towels, aprons and bags. Perfect gift for your favorite Brit host/hostess!

I also love their "It's a Beautiful Day" print --- great for spring.

Now Starring....

...your baby! I ran across these adorable baby posters yesterday at 5starbaby.com. When I saw these, ideas for movie-themed birthday parties and showers for all my expectant friends danced through my head.

And they just don't restrict their posters to babies, you can order posters for engagements, weddings, and child-adult birthday parties. 5starbaby makes announcements and posters for just about any theme.

Prices are reasonable, a 7.5 x 12 poster will only set you back $25.oo and 5 x 8 announcements start at $3.50 per card.

The Owl's Have It

Looking for an unconventional stuffed animal for a child? (Although I think many adults would love this too.) I spotted this Wooly Night Owl at Viva Terra. It's hand-spun and knitted by women in Kenya and dyed with plants grown in their gardens. Great gift for a great cause! ($79.00)

Super-size me

There's a great interview with Jessica, co-creator of Slaughterhead over at IndieFixx. They make tons of cool vinyl bags a wallets with unexpected designs. I think I'm at my bag buying capacity, but wallets are another story. I've owned many wallets, but they never seem big enough, especially the one I own now. It definitely doesn't hold all of my credit cards, and my bag is so darn big anyway that I can never find it when I need it. Then I saw this jumbo wallet. Nothing like killing two birds with one stone... ($60.00)

Terry Graziano Transforms Your Style

I just ran across Terry Graziano's Esty Shop and fell in love with her chic, innovative hat designs with a vintage feel! Check out the Sweetheart Candy Box hat, I think it would flatter any head shape (and hair style for that matter). The Sweetheart Style comes in many color combinations and you can wear the hat 4 different ways! This would make a great addition to any hat/accessory addicts' closet. The style shown here costs $95.00, gift certificates are also available so you can let your giftee select her own.

Will you write me a song, Valentine?

Happy Valentine's Day! Always wanted someone to write a love song for you for a special gift between you and your loved ones? Brian Alex will do it---and it'll only cost you anywhere from $2,000-$25,000! What do you get for the price? Depends on the cost, of course. But he generally records it with musicians and delivers two CDs---one framed and the other for playing. Check out the story here. As noted on his website, it's "the perfect gift."

Important notice from the Bureau of Communications

I just found my favorite new way to send e-greetings thanks to How About Orange's blog. Bureau of Communications allows you to send most-official looking documents when you just have to get something off your chest. The site is provided by Magnetism, who makes all kinds of cool widgets like the Idea Generator. They even have a "Declaration of Romantic Intent"---be sure to send one to your sweetie on Thurs!

Read my Declaration of Gratitude below. I mean every word of it!

lunch-time genius

I had to post about Delight's find of the day---a portable dish set. The set includes a plate, bowl, cup, utensils, that all wrap together in a placemat. Pure genius and conveniency can be yours for $25.08.