Five Days - Five Stores

With just five days left to purchase presents for friends, family and co-workers ... I can breathe a final sigh of relief ... because I am actually FINISHED with shopping, donating, decorating, writing cards, wrapping and cleaning!  And, there is nothing to cook since we have been invited here and there for our holiday meals. 

You would think a normal person would be ecstatic by this rare turn of events, but I am now at a bit of a loss as to what to do with these five remaining days before Christmas Eve. Hence the compulsive blogging ...

For those of you who have not finished all of the above holiday tasks, including "last minute shopping,"  Here are my favorite picks for stores with great stocking stuffers:

1.  Pier 1:   They have the best smelling candles in the universe. And ... if glassware, dishware, funky ornaments and household decorations are your thing ... this is the place to go absolutely nuts.

2.  Neiman-Marcus:  Don't be put off by the name of this native Dallas, Texas store. Yes, they produce one of the most outrageous, annual holiday catalogues of any retail establishment ... we are talking his and her hang-gliders and motorized cup cake cars that adults can drive (see the funny David Letterman Show video clip) ... But, they also have unusual gifts for around 50 bucks ... like Frenchie style underwear bags and silver koi fish salt and pepper shakers.  I guarantee you that they regularly stock items that you won't find anywhere else.

3.  Zappos:  This on-line retailer began as a shoe outlet and now stocks other items as well. But, shoes of every shape, size, color and function are still their main draw. And, the best part is that they offer free shipping, free returns shipping if there is a problem, a 365 day return policy and 24-7 customer service!  My favorite feature though is the ongoing commentary from other consumers who have rated their recent purchases and provide buyers with the inside scoop on the actual fit and comfort level of select shoes, boots etc ...   

4.  Amazon:  If you need anything from kitchen blenders to books on tape, this is your store. Amazon.com has been thrilling buyers since it debuted online.  I can spend hours surfing their newest listings in the movies, music and toys department.  They have a free shipping option if you are NOT in a hurry to receive your purchases and a "Wish List" option to record your favorite items to share with others. 

5.  Dunkin Donuts:  Say what you will ... I don't know anyone among my inner circle of coffee/pastry worshippers who don't go crazy when they receive gift cards for this drive-up icon.  On a blustery winter day in New England or a pot scorcher in the deep South ... they offer refreshments to please just about every thirsty palate.  The fact that you can also gorge yourself on donuts, bread goods and sammies is simply the icing on their classic, sticky coffee bun.

So, for all you shopping phobics out there ... I hope that this list helps you find some affordable gifts online or in stores, and even more so ... that you enjoy the process.  Get Crackin!