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.

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.

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."

A little box

Need a small package for that little something you just picked up for Valentine's Day? Patricia at A Little Hut has got you covered! Pick up the template for her little boxes and gift cards here for $3.99 each. Cheaper than Hallmark! (via Poppytalk)

Sexy, Classy, Comfy

Delight's deal of the day completes my idea of a fun night at home --- BBC Jane Austen Movie Marathon, Pint of Ben & Jerry's, and a slinky cashmere robe. This robe definitely outdoes those cheesy 3/4's that you can get over at Vicky's, but is still sexy enough that it'll leave your man wondering what's underneath (even if that man is only Mr. Darcy [sigh]). $113.57 if you pick it up today!

Make your own cookbook

Know anyone who's ever wanted their own cookbook? My friend Paola sent me over this link from the New York Times about a new venture from Conde Nast and Kamran Mohsenin - Tastebook.com. Through this site, users can create their very own cookbooks, using up to 100 recipes from Bon Appetit, Gourmet, Epicurious, and other chefs. You can even add your own personal recipes - which is why I really like this concept. The book comes in a hardcover binder (you choose the front image and the title) and allows you to add chapters that are tabbed for easy access.

How much does all this cost? $34.95!

For gift-giving purposes, I suggest gathering up the family's favorite recipes and creating a cookbook using the family name (ie, The Smith Family Recipes) and gifting to all the chefs in your clan. This would also be great for showers, weddings, and office parties.

Thanks for the tip P!

Asian Inspiration at Horchow

While super-sheik Neiman Marcus retailer Horchow may be a bit out of my budget, they do have some nice once-in-a-lifetime gifts for weddings, showers and engagements. And if nothing else, they provide inspiration for your next trip to Homegoods.

These "Asian Treasures" would impress even your most critical giftee.

Antique Food Basket, hails from 1850-1870, $190.00

Antique Grain Barrel, circa 1850-1870, $300.00


Antique Drum, 100-120 years old, $379.00 (marked as a "special" HA!)