Gifts Etc. Blog!

Magnolia Blossoms

2010-04-20T14:45:00.000-07:00

Magnolias remind me of springtime and early summer. As a Southern I can not wait to see the magnolia trees loaded with their beautiful blossoms. The magnolia flowers are the official flower of my home state, Louisiana. We have sold porcelain items with magnolias for twenty years. Be sure to check out our collection of pieces, for the kitchen for your table top (two selections of patterns are available the Magnolia (D013) and the Alice Magnolia (D802) collection.) The pieces remind me of spring time all year long.

Just a few magnolia facts:
~ There are over 80 spices of magnolias.
~ The plants are native to Eastern Asia and the eastern Americas north of the equator.
~ The flowers are showy and fragrant.
~ Fossil remains have been found dating back between 36 and 58 million years old.
~ Flower colors range from white to pink, purple, green or yellow.

Happy Springtime and Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself.
Sincerely,
Marilynn
~ Magnolias are now in the top ten trees in the United States.
~ Official state flower of Louisiana and Mississippi

"GUMBO" Mugs

2010-03-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

Spring is almost here and this may be our last days of cool or cold weather until the fall. So think GUMBO for dinner and enjoy them in our "Gumbo Mugs". This is been one of the most popular items on our site for the past few years. The piece is dishwasher safe and can be used in the microwave. We call the item "Gumbo Mugs" but the piece is very versatile.

The set of four gumbo mugs make wonderful wedding gifts and Mother's Day gifts. Recently our UPS account rep got married and was given these as a gift. She mentioned how nice it was so see our stamp or label on the bottom of the piece and know where the piece came from.

Happy Gift Giving even if it is a gift to yourself!
Sincerely,
Marilynn

National Pet Sitters Week is March 7th to 13th

2010-03-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

National Pet Sitters Week is March 7th to 13th, which is next week. Show your appreciation for the person who cares for your pet when you are away with a wonderful gift from our pet them collection of gifts. Not only can our pet products (mugs etc) be personalized with a pet's name or your sitter's name. What a nice way for your favorite pet sitter to remember you and your pet than a personalized item.

Order not to receive the products in time to celebrate National Pet Sitters Week with your sitter. As always we are happy to ship a gift directly to your gift receipt. Just provide us with the name and address and we do everything else. Your gift will ship gift packaged at no additional charge (Normal gift packaging is a white gift box with ribbon.) A special gift packing slip will be included in the package with any special message you may want; just provide your message in the comment section.

Happy gift giving to your pet sitter or a gift to yourself!
Sincerely,
Marilynn

Lobster for Dinner?

2010-03-02T12:52:00.000-08:00

Thinking of having an outstanding dinner with lobster as your main entree. Why not make the presentation of the meal complete by serving on our lobster dinnerware?

Yesterday I had the privilege of assisting a client with her questions regarding pieces from our lobster dinnerware collection of dishes. We discussed how messy lobster can be when eating. One of the questions was "What to do with the shells?" http://www.giftsetc.com/ has the perfect solution it is a piece we have been selling for years the Lobster serving bowl # 5943D015. This bowl is perfect to be placed in the center of the table for approximately four quest to use to place the discarded shells as they eat their lobster. The bowl can also be used for serving salad or something as simple as popcorn or chips.

The second questions we discussed was "How to accommodate the service of lobster so that you do not get water all over your table?" . Our recommendation is using the 14" Lobster Platter as a serving piece for each person (it would be used as their plate since lobster really does not fit well on a standard size dinner plate). The lobster can be placed across the center of the platter and you have room to add lettuce for garnishing along with steamed potatoes and lemon wedges. The platter is large enough that the lobster does not hang over the plate and drip water onto your table. The lobster platter can also be used to serve fish, shrimp or any other item of your choice.

Not only do these pieces add style to any presentation of food but they are convenient to use. All of the lobster dinnerware collection is dishwasher and microwave safe and must for our busy lifestyles. As always we are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products. I am here Monday to Friday, 9:30 to 5:00 and will personally take your call just ask for Marilynn.

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself!

Sincerely,

Marilynn
http://www.giftsetc.com/

March is Women's History Month

2010-03-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

As modern American women we often look for inspiration. We look to other women whose life story can provide encouragement, guidance and that all important proof that we can make it. We can survive. In our search we often look to those who we believe have idealist lives; these include women who are political figures, media moguls, and entertainment icons. However often the greatest women whose stories can provide inspiration are those found when we look back in history, to those women that were not famous, were not wealthy, but were ordinary women placed in unbelievable situations.

Stories of great inspiration can be found in those women who lived during the times of the American Revolution. Elizabeth Hill Halbert was born on Sept 18, 1747 in Caroline County, Virginia. She married John Halbert in 1765 of Essex County, Virginia. By the time of the American Revolution, Elizabeth and John already had two children. During her third pregnancy; John was away participating in the Revolutionary War. Elizabeth gave birth to her third child without her husband by her side, without the use of modern drugs and without the comforts of modern conveniences including running water, inside bathroom faculties, air conditioning and heating. Three days after delivering her baby she was “visited” by her neighbors who were Troyes’s. They opposed the war, and freedom from England. They held her at gun point. While having a shotgun held to her head she watched her home being destroyed. Her own neighbors took her possession down to the mattress ticking of her bed where she had given birth just three days before. She was without her husband, without the assistance of good neighbors, with no furnishing or necessities and three small children. Just think she lived in a time without 911 and without modern communications. She had to pull herself together. She had to be strong without the help of reading the latest blog postings or self help book. She had to do this without her husband, who was way fighting for their freedom. You have to wonder what she did. Did she pray? Did she cry out?

What we do know is she survived. Her husband returned from the war. They had four additional children and lived as a family in their new country, the United States of America. Her story was told from one generation to the next and was accepted in 1904 by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Elizabeth Hill Halbert’s name was placed into the Daughters of the American Revolution’s Registry of Patriots. Her story has been recorded in history for those who read it to be inspired. Her story clearly shows in spite of our current situations we are so blessed to be Americans in a free country, a country for which she and her family sacrificed. Her story is that of inspiration of the everyday life that lived through incredible times and events.

In Honor of all Women who have serve as inspiration use this coupon code 25USA and receive 25% on any American item on orders placed during the month of March 2010.

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself!

Sincerely,
Marilynn

Red Hat and Purple Dress or was it a Purple Hat and Red Coat?

2010-02-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

Our website, http://www.giftsetc.com/ has sold red hat products for several years. It has been our pleasure to assist clients with products for either their red hat collections or for their fellow red hat friends. Even though I have sold these items (We have really nice porcelain gifts available with two different patterns and jewelry.) I really never wanted to identify myself with this group of distinguished ladies due to the age associated with membership to the group As each year passes I realize those red hat years are approaching.

Today, I embraced the thought and understood the purpose of the red hat or in my case the purple hat. Wearing a red hat and a purple dress is to symbolize doing as you please. Your actions are not mean spirited or filled with anger; your actions are just as you please.

This morning as walking my dog, Mollee, I realized as cars drove pass my yard I was the lady in the long red coat, light blue jogging pants and purple fleece cap. I was dressed in just the reverse of the red hat and purple dress and I really did not care at that moment. I was warm. So now when I process an order for red hat products I can smile and laugh to myself. I still have a few years left to reach the official membership requirements but I understand and appreciated the meaning so much more.

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself!

Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Scottish Terrier Breed Proudcts and More

2010-02-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

What fun it is for all pet lovers especially dog enthusiast to get the results of the Westminster Kennel Club Championship Show. Congratulations for Best of Show this year goes to a Scottish Terrier, named "Sadie". What a win for the Scottish Terrier bread and all of those associated with the 2010 Best of Show Champion dog. It is amazing how many terriers have won the Best of Breed Championship in the history of Westminster. 44 terriers have been victorious as Best of Show Champion over the134 year history of the Westminster show. Maybe it is their cute and lively personalized that really shows in the competition.

As a pet owner it has been so much fun to offer pet themed products on our http://www.giftsetc.com/ site over the years. I love dogs but must admit dachshunds (after all I have Miss Mollee who comes to work with me) and Labradors have a special place in my heart. We have a wonderful collection of pet themed gifts which include a large selection of breed specific patterns available on a variety of home accessory. We also have a collection of breed specific jewelry items. The Scottish Terrier design is featured on one of our most popular style coffee mugs on our site; we also offer affordable Scotty earrings and a Scotty charm perfect for charm bracelets or worn on a chain for a Scotty necklace.

All orders placed during the month of February for any pet related item get a special offer free gift or Laginappe. You can preview the gift - it was selected in honor the the Westminster Show.

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to your self or maybe your dog!

Sincerely,

Marilynn Jane

Wear the COLORS

2010-02-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras is Tuesday, Feb 16th 2010; that is tomorrow! Wear the official colors of Mardi Gras - Purple, Green and Gold with any of our Mardi Gras Jewelry. The nice thing about our jewelry is it can be worn all year long to remind you of happy carnival memories.

Each of the three colors has it own symbolic meaning. Purple represents Justice, Green represents Faith and Gold represents Power. These have been the colors for Mardi Gras since 1872 when selected by King of Carnival, Rex. Carnival is a fun filled season before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday. Lassiez Bons Temps Roule!

Happy Mardi Gras and happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself.
Sincerely,
Marilynn

Mardi Gras is Next Week

2010-02-10T14:10:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras Day is next Tuesday, February 16th and what a fun and festive season it has been especially with the Saints Super Bowl victory. It is not too late to order last minute favors and gifts to give. Our fleur de lis key ring and pin, make wonderful office gifts to share with co works on Mardi Gras Day all are economically priced under $5.00. These items can ship either the same day or next day. If you need these for Mardi Gras please note on your order in the comment section and we will follow up with you if a service other than ground is needed so that your products reach you by next Tuesday.

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself.

Happy Mardi Gras

Sincerely,

Marilynn

PS: these items make great favors wedding guest too!

Fleur De Lis - YES!!!

2010-02-08T12:26:00.000-08:00

What a day in history we witnessed yesterday, THE SAINTS WON THE SUPERBOWL! I have watched the Saints play football all my life and have watched their win yesterday on television; the unbelievable happened! It is not only exciting for the city of New Orleans but the entire State of Louisiana. We now know what it is to have our team win the Superbowl - what Joy, Fun and Excitment. Today I look at my Fleur de Lis items with greater pride and joy in my heart. Not only does the Fleur De Lis symbolize my French hertiage but now the symbol of the Superbowl champs. In honor of their historic win we are offering a special collector tin featuring the fleur de lis symbol with the purchase of either the gold or silver Fleur de Lis lapel pin style #LPP113*.

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself and congratulations to the Saints and their loyal fans who have followed the team for decades!

Sincerely,

Marilynn Jane

http://www.giftsetc.com/

*Free tins are available while supplies last.

Think RED Monogramed Gifts for Valentine's Day

2010-02-05T14:04:00.000-08:00

Valentine’s Day is one of the “sweetest” days of the year. It is always nice to take the time to tell the special people in our lives how much they mean to us. Candy is the most popular gift for Valentine’s Day but once it is gone so can be the memory of your gift which symbolizes your love, so why not give a personalized monogrammed gift which will last all year long. www.giftsetc.com has a wonderful collection of personalized gifts available with RED monogramming perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Looking for an economical gift consider our classic mug which is $4.95. This mug is perfect for our busy lifestyles; it is can be used in the microwave and dishwasher safe. This item ships in a white gift box and for Valentine’s Day complete with a red bow ready for gift giving. Add red flower dots to the mug for more Valentine fun. We also have a wonderful square plate perfect for serving your favorite, bonbon, truffle or assorted chocolates. This porcelain plate is square, dishwasher and microwave safe, ships in a white gift box with a red bow for Valentine’s Day and is priced below $10.00. This plate style is also available in two additional sizes, medium plate and large plate and is shipped with the same gift ready packaging.

If you are thinking outside the box for Valentine’s Day consider the Chinese Food Take Out container. This is one of the cutest pieces we offer in our entire line. This porcelain piece is perfect for candy or a small plate to be inserted into. It can be used in the microwave and placed in the dishwashing machine by removing the metal handle. The item ships gift ready for Valentine’s Day in a white gift box with a red bow.

As always we are here to assist you with your gift giving needs even if it is a gift to yourself.

Happy Valentine's Day

Marilynn Jane
www.giftsetc.com

Go Saints

2010-02-04T14:11:00.000-08:00

Okay here it is - GO SAINTS in the Super Bowl. As a life long resident of Louisiana, I can not believe the Saints are in the Super Bowl! Maybe that is why the winter has been so cold here? There is an unbelievable the amount of excitement in the air. It is really the top topic of conversation everywhere you go. I have worn our Fleur de lis jewelry and used the Fleur de lis items in my home for years and know it is even more fun. So enjoy the day and enjoy the game and give our Fleur de lis gifts with joy.

Happy New Year 2010 - The Year of Lagniappe

2010-01-04T09:57:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2010!!! We are so excited about 2010. We have new products and promotions planned for 2010 and are anxious to share them with you. Most of all we know without you, our customers, none of this would be possible. It is a true joy to assist you with gifts and have the opportunity to do what we love everyday at work. We are so thankful for you, our customers. In the true spirit of appreciation and gift giving we are naming 2010 the Year of Lagniappe at http://www.giftsetc.com/

The Year of Lagniappe is simply our way of saying THANK YOU. For those outside of South Louisiana you may have never heard of the term, "Lagniappe", but we are sure it is something you will like. Lagniappe is a French Cajun word for a small gift made by the seller as a gesture of appreciation. Lagniappe is a FREE GIFT for purchasing. www.giftsetc.com will include one free gift which will be a little something extra in each order that ships.* (see details on Lagniappe giveaways).

Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year filled with immeasurable Joy, Peace, and Love with Blessings of Health and Prosperity.

Sincerely,
Marilynn Jane
www.giftsetc.com

Year of Lagniappe Free Gift Give Away Details.
A free gift will be included with each order that ships between 1-1-2010 to 12-31-2010.
Only one free gift per order.
The free gift will ship to one location only. Location will be the ship to address shown on the order.
Customer can not request a specific free gift item.
Selection of the free gift item will be at the random selection of the staff of www.giftsetc.com.
Free gift item may or may not have a US regional, patriotic, holiday or religious theme. Free gift is in no way intended to convey any statement. This is a free gift of a random item with no suggestive or implied message.
In the event the gift item is damaged in shipping replacement will not be sent.
Free gift item may or may not be a current item shown on the www.giftsetc.com.
Free gift item may or may not be able to be purcahsed, reordered, added to if it is part of a set or collection, or replaced.
Orders are only eligible for free gifts that are accepted in their entirety. Orders refused or returned for any reason will not be eligible for a free gift. Orders returned or refused without free gifts will be charged the standard retail value as determined by www.giftsetc.com and the shipping and handling. This charge will be applied against any credit or refund for the returned or refused order.
Client wishing not to a free gift ship with the order to the ship to address this request can be honored by emailing sales@giftsetc.com with "No free gift to ship with order # (this is your order # from your order confirmation) in the subject line. Email must be sent within one hour of order being placed to be eligible for free gift to not be included with order.
Refer to website for additional product information or write sales@giftsetc.com .

Holiday Season

2009-11-25T08:34:00.000-08:00

It is impossible to believe that Christmas is one month from today. The Holiday Season is here! Thanksgiving Day is tomorrow. We have so much to be thankful for each and every day. We are thankful for you our customers.

We will be in our office this Friday to answer any questions you may have during normal office hours of 9 am to 5 pm, call 800-218-9132 or email sales@giftsetc.com.

Wishing you and yours and very Happy Thanksgiving day!

Happy gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself.

Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Customer Service

2009-11-13T17:26:00.000-08:00

It was been quite some time since I have posted to our blog. Technical difficulty were an excess at the beginning and then I simple got writers block. Well here I go with a new posting.

Customer Service
Earlier this week I answered the telephone; it was a call from a client wanting to check on an order. I mentioned to her I was answering the call on my head set while in the production room and that I would have to go to my desk. She understood and provided me with her name and order number. I then asked what was on the order. She told me, “Six red hat mugs.” I said, “I processed that order yesterday, it is in shipping.” She was pleased with the reply and seemed surprised that I had remembered her order.

We sincerely appreciate each order. We read your orders, process your orders and ship out your orders from our location. Our customer service is done 100% in house. We answer our own telephone. We do not out source your calls to commercial customer service, which is very common for ecommerce sites. We are here at our office, Monday – Friday, 9 am to 5 pm CST. If you call during none office hours or during office hours and get our voice mail system we will return your call. We reply to our own emails promptly if you prefer that type of communication. We look forward to assisting you with quality customer service making gift easy even if it is a gift to yourself.

Why do we use cup and saucers to serve tea?

2009-01-27T18:21:00.000-08:00

Tea is served in a cup and saucer set in modern western world. The cup and saucer unit is stylish but also functional. Here are a few pointers about why we use a cup and saucer to serve tea.

~ The saucer provided a place to rest the spoon after use.
~ A spoon is used to swish tea back and forth being careful not to touch the sides of the cup. Do not make clinking sounds.
~ Never leave the spoon in the tea take it out and rest it on the saucer.
~ Place the spoon on the saucer, behind the cup, on the right hand side under the handle of the cup.
~ Do not sip tea from the spoon.

Enjoy a cup of tea in a cup and saucer. Share a cup of tea with a friend and remember the proper way to serve tea is with a cup and saucer. I personally love our Magnolia cup and saucer and have used them for years. Look around our site we have many styles and patterns.

Have fun reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn

How to Hold a Cup and Saucer?

2009-01-16T11:03:00.001-08:00

Since January is National Hot Tea Month I thought it would be fun to write about the correct way to hold a cup and saucer. There is a proper way to hold a cup and saucer. Here are a few tips to assist you when being served hot tea in holding the cup and saucer correctly.

How to Hold A Cup and Saucer?
~ Pick up the cup and saucer together.
~ You should hold the saucer in one hand and the cup in the other.
~ The best way to hold to cup is to slip your index finger through the handle, up to almost the first knuckle, then balance and secure the cup by placing your thumb on the top of the handle and allowing the bottom of the handle to rest on your middle finger.
~ The ring finger and pinkie finger should rest by curving back to the wrist.
~ Your should NOT extend your pinkie finger in direct contrast to popular opinion.

It is a lot of fun to teach children the correct way to hold cup and saucers. You can simple brew a pot of tea and enjoy serving them and showing them the proper technique needed for drinking tea. I did this many years ago with my God children. I gave them a special cup and saucer for the "event" which they still use and cherish to this day. Our monogrammed cup and saucers are perfect for this type of activity with children. Trends come and go in life; good manners last a life time and that is the main purpose of teaching children how to use a cup and saucer.

Check out our cup and saucers. Looking for a different design please call or email and we will be happy to try and assist you.

Happy Reading and Shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn

National Hot Tea Month

2009-01-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

January is National Hot Tea Month. January is the perfect month with our winter temperatures to enjoy a cup of hot tea. Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the world. In honor of National Hot Tea Month I want to sure a little info about tea with you.

Great discoveries are often by accident. Legend has it, in 2727 BC the Chinese Emperor Citric Nung, who was a skilled ruler, creative scientist and patron of the arts discovered tea by accident. While a servant was boiling water for hygienic reasons leaves from a tree dropped into a cup of boiling water. The water turned brown, Shen Nung was curious and drank it. He found this new drink refreshing and aromatic. Tea has been an important part of many cultures for approximately 5000 years.

Tea and wine share a common fact in that both come from a single plant. All tea comes from one plant, Cameillia sinesis, which is a warm weather evergreen. The evergreen can grow up to 60 feet in the wild, but when cultivated for harvest it is keep about three feet in height. More than 3000 varieties of tea have been documented. Just like wine different climate, soil conditions and the processing techniques determine the flavor of tea.

I for one am very happy tea was discovered. I enjoy hot tea and more importantly love teapots. I have collecting teapots since childhood. Often when traveling I will search for a teapot to be my souvenir from a trip. Teapots can be both functional and decorative in nature. www.giftsetc.com offers a nice collection of teapots. Some of which I have in my home and use. The teapots on our site are dishwasher and microwave safe perfect for our busy lifestyles.

Happy New Year! - Enjoy a good cup of tea and look for additional info on tea during the month of January at www.giftsetc.com

Happy Reading and Shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

New Year 2009

2008-12-30T18:08:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2009! New Year’s Day I think maybe the most universal holiday of the entire year and the easiest to celebrate. There are no religious associations to be concerned about, no concern for a change in the date of the day problem to worry about. For me it is the most politically correct holiday we celebrate. Saying Happy New Year is just being nice!

Different celebrations and customs are followed around our nation. New York is famous for the big ball drop in Times Square. In post Katrina New Orleans the New Year has been celebrated with the dropping of a Gumbo pot. This year I understand a change for the event in New Orleans has been made to dropping a Fluer de lis.

What ever and wherever you are, New Year’s is a special time. It is a time for each person to celebrate the survivor of the past year and a time to give thanks for the blessings, opportunities and prosperity we have experienced. The New Year offers a chance to grow and make resolutions to diet, exercise and be healthier, to clean and be more organized, to be wiser, more giving and more thankful. It is a time to celebrate and plan for the year ahead.

The first step in any project is often considered the hardest one to take. I hope you have someone to not only step with you into the New Year but to dance with into the New Year. If not you have 365 days to plan for 2010, make 2009 the best year of your life. For me New Year’s 2000 started with a proposal of marriage at the stroke of mid night that changed my life for the best! You really never know what the New Year has in store of any of us.

Wishing you a HAPPY NEW YEAR filled with happiness, prosperity, peace, joy and love. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com in 2009
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Celebrations

2008-12-23T10:44:00.001-08:00

Christmas is just days away! New Year's 2009 is next week. Mardi Gras is February 24, 2009. We look forward to a wonderful time of celebration with our family and friends over the next few days and coming weeks. We also look forward to assisting you with gifts for the upcoming Carnival season. Wishing you joy, peace, happiness and all the best in your Celebrations of the Seasons!

Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Fleur de Lis Glassware & Bar Accessories

2008-12-16T18:51:00.000-08:00

www.giftsetc.com offers a collection of Fleur de lis Glassware & Bar Accessories. Many of these pieces have been top sellers on our site for several years. The items are hand decorated in Louisiana with a Louisiana created pewter casting. The items have a very sophisticated style. These pieces are perfect as a gift for a wedding, or as a favor or crew gift for Mardi Gras. The pieces are in various price points fitting most budgets.

The best feature I like about the glass items offered on our site is the fact that the pieces are dishwasher safe. We have tested these pieces. My mother has been using a set of the Fleur de Lis Beverage Glass and the Fleur de Lis Double Old Fashion glasses in her home for everyday use for about six years. These glasses have been used thousands of times and washed in her dishwasher daily. We are often asked, "Do you use the products you sell?" The answer is yes. We often try out pieces before placing them on our site. We want the products we offer to be of quality. These pieces happen to some of our favorite items.

When we process an order for glasses the pieces ship in packaging appropriate for gift giving. Most items are packaged in a white gift box. If you indicate when ordering we are happy to package with ribbon ready for gift giving at the time the order is unpacked at no additional cost.

Keep these in mind for Mardi Gras gifts. Mardi Gras 2009 is on Tuesday, February 24th.

Happy Reading and Shopping with www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
http://www.giftsetc.com

Do Not Forget Our Sale Items

2008-12-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves a sale, well most people do. I love to sale shop. I want to remind readers to check out our sale items. The pieces offered in this section are all first quality items. Many of the pieces were over runs. These items are available for same day shipping and perfect for holiday gift giving.

One of my favorite pieces in this section is the vase with the yellow rose pattern. I like to name many of the designs or patterns we offer on china items to make it easy to identify when processing orders. This yellow rose pattern is actually named after my dog, Libbie. The pattern really does not look like Libbie but as a childless married woman I found it very appropriate to name a pattern or design after "my child", Libbie. Libbie is a chocolate lab; I think she is as beautiful as this yellow rose pattern.

This vase is really very nice and sure to be perfect for anyone who loves antique reproductions. The vase has nice detailing and a very soft shape. The rose pattern appears to be hand painted; it has rich colors and nice enamel detailing. The piece is decorated in the United States; it is dishwasher safe. We do have a stock of this item so do not be afraid to order today for Christmas.

If you have a question about this item or any product on our web site, please call during normal office hours, Monday - Friday, 9 am to 5 pm central standard time. We are welcomed to leave a voice mail message and we will get back with you.

Happy Reading and Shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Crawfish / Lobster Dinnerware

2008-12-12T19:55:00.000-08:00

Today I had the pleasure to assist a client with an order over the telephone. The order was placed by a lady who grew up in my home state of Louisiana. She no longer lives in our area but cherishes her connection to Louisiana. She had been searching for additional crawfish dinnerware pieces to add to her collection. She had found our site by searching Google. She ordered a soup tureen with the crawfish/lobster pattern to add to her collection of dinner ware pieces. Most people from Southern Louisiana associate our area with crawfish, or "little Cajun Lobsters". Over the years we have produced thousands of pieces with the crawfish/lobster pattern offered on our site. Often it is only a matter of geography that determines the name by which this pattern is described. Earlier this month I assisted a lady looking for “lobster” dinner plates.

The crawfish dinnerware we offer on our web site has been produced by our company under two line names prior to our www.giftsetc.com site. Pieces produced back in the late 1980's were labeled with our parent's company name of Ceramic Treasures, Inc. This logo often has an alligator with our home town name of New Iberia, Louisiana. In the 1990's we launched our gift line, Faust Heirlooms, offering American decorated porcelain specializing in antique reproductions of tea set pieces. Pieces were produced with the same crawfish art and were labeled with our Faust Heirlooms logo. The Faust Heirlooms logo features a column design.

The crawfish/ lobster art for this design is not an original piece that we designed. The art I understand dates back to the 1970's when the pieces were carried by Dillard's and Goudeux's here in Louisiana and on the Gulf Coast. Many of the original pieces I have been told were produced in various factories in Europe. Some of the older pieces had oyster shells in the design in addition to the crawfish/lobster design. If anyone knows of any additional history about this pattern please let me know.

It is really rewarding as a small business when clients order to add to their collections of items. We are always happy to speak with client in assisting them with product questions, especially when working on adding to collections. Maree and I really love what we do and are so thankful for our orders. We try to take pride in our work and provide attention to detail for when shipping gifts. Please feel free to call our office during normal office hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm central standard time, Monday - Friday. You can leave messages at other times and we will return your call.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Street Car Ornament

2008-12-10T07:53:00.000-08:00

New Orleans is rich in history. There are many landmarks and attractions that when seen you immediately think of New Orleans ,one of which is the New Orleans Street Car. The New Orleans Street car is the oldest continuously operating street car system in the world. It is truly an historic attraction.

www.giftsetc. offers an original and exclusive, Louisiana Made, ornament made of polished pewter to celebrate the New Orleans Streetcar. The Street Car Ornament is a perfect for anyone who loves New Orleans. It makes a perfect gift for the holiday season, as a convention or Mardi Gras favor or as a gift for those attending a special event or wedding in New Orleans.

The art for this original ornament was taken from a pencil drawing I drew in the early 1990s. It shows lots of detail. The ornament can be hung on a tree or displayed year round on a display stand. It is very affordable priced at $4.95 each.

This item is available for same day shipping on orders placed before 2 pm cst.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Gifts In Time For Christmas

2008-12-09T08:15:00.000-08:00

We want to THANK everyone who is ordering gifts for the holiday season from www.giftsetc.com. It is our pleasure to assist you with gift giving. We understand how important having gifts for specific dates are to everyone. We are processing orders daily. Any order placed by Dec 16 Th shipped via standard ground service should be safe for Christmas giving anywhere in the continental United States. Any order placed after the 16th if there is any question of it reaching you we will contact you for possible express service if needed. If any item is not available we will let you know.

We sincerely appreciate you allowing us to supply you with gifts for your holiday needs.

Happy shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Fleur de Lis Favors and Gifts

2008-12-08T18:57:00.000-08:00

Christmas is rapidly approaching and so is Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras 2009 is February 24th. We have two new Fleur de Lis items I would like to point out that make perfect gifts for this Christmas season or favors for Mardi Gras.

The first one is our new Fleur de Lis Key Ring with Bling. It is very economically priced at $1.95 each. This item as a little bling. It is made of silver poly resin in the shape of the Fleur de Lis. It is enhanced with clear rhinestones and an attached metal chain and key ring.

The second new item I want to point out is our new Fleur de Lis Magnetic Memo Clip. This is a perfect favor or office gift. It can be used to jot down a grocery list or just make note of something important, your guests are sure to use these pretty Memo Collection memo pad favors over and over. Each magnetic memo pad measures 4 ¾" x 3" and features a silver poly resin pad holder clip in a detailed Fleur de Lis shape, enhanced with clear rhinestones and backed with a magnet for easy attachment to the fridge or other metal surface.

These two item coordinates well together. We have used the memo clip in our office on a file cabinet in the processing room and find it very useful with a nice modern style with a little bling. The key ring is a nice size and is comfortable in your pocket.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

What would you serve sugar plums on?

2008-12-03T19:08:00.000-08:00

The Sugar Plum Fairy is a character in The Nutcracker and children have been known to dream of sugar plums in literature. But what is and how would you serve sugar plums?

Sugar plums are round or oval candy made of sugar. I checked out several recipes and found out as with any recipe there are lots of variations. One thing I can determine from all of the recipes (some have plums in them others do not) is that sugar plums should be served just like chocolates or truffles. A dish like our Monogrammed Square Tray, or our very affordable Monogrammed Plate (priced under $10.00) would be perfect to serve sugar plums on or give as a gift with sugar plums on it. These two pieces make perfect gifts; they really show how thoughtful you were in selecting their gift. The person receiving it as a gift knows you planned this gift for them since it is monogrammed. The dishes are dishwasher and microwave safe and decorated in the USA.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Don't forget those little dancers...

2008-12-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

www.giftsetc.com offers a wonderful collection of items perfect for the little dancer / ballerina in your world this holiday season. These items are perfect for dancers, dance teachers, friends from dance classes are a gift for yourself. Many of these pieces are exclusive to Gifts Etc; they are pieces designed created by Maree.

Maree and I were both blessed to have taken dancing lessons as children. We have very happy memories of ballet lessons from a wonderful lady, "Mrs. Twinkle". I never process an order with a dance theme piece that I do not think of the wonderful times spent in the dance studio.

Don't miss the chance to give one of these wonderful gifts to the dancer in your world this holiday season.

Happy reading, shopping and gift giving even if it is a gift to yourself.

Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T11:47:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is commonly called TURKEY Day. Most of all it is a special day to give thanks. As Americans we are blessed with the opportunities provided by our freedom. The history of thanksgiving dates back before the Revolutionary War. It is a true celebration of who we are as a nation. It is a day for reflection and giving thanks.

We hope you will have the opportunity to share a meal with your family and friends tomorrow. That you will have the chance to celebrate Thanksgiving and a chance to relax and rest to get ready for the busy Holiday season. Wishing you and yours a HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Ornaments

2008-11-25T07:46:00.000-08:00

Last night as I was driving home I could not help but notice how many Christmas trees were already up, lite and on display to be enjoyed by those driving past. The Christmas Spirit is already in the air even before Thanksgiving Day. Our family never decorates for the Christmas season until after Thanksgiving normally during the first few days of December. Our family has many traditions just like I am sure your family does to for the holiday season. This morning when I came into our order processing room I saw Maree working on an order for ornaments. It made me realize just how close it is time to decorate for the Christmas season.

Today I want to draw attention to one of my favorite ornaments. It is offered on our site, www.giftsetc.com. It is our MARDI GRAS MASK ORNAMENT. This ornament was designed by Maree. The design is adorable. It has a traditional fun and festive mask shape with three Fleur de lis accenting the face. It is original design. The design Maree created clearly exemplifies the "Joie de vivre" spirit of our state. The ornament can be used not only at Christmas but also during the Mardi Gras season. This piece is American Made and is a Certified Louisiana piece; it is made in our home state of Louisiana. The ornament is very affordable, priced at $4.95 each. The oranament is packaged in a keepsake chiffon bag, perfect for storing in for years to come. This ornament is sure to make a perfect gift, even if it is a gift to yourself.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Salt and Pepper Shakers

2008-11-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

Each day I am always amazed by the items people order and thankful that they ordered products from www.giftsetc.com. I really love gift giving and giving gifts that are not only useful but of meaning to the recipient. Last week it seemed every time I turned around we were filling an order with salt and pepper shakers. These are items that everyone can use in their kitchen or on their table.

www.giftsetc.com currently offers a nice collection of salt and pepper sets. We have various shapes and a nice selection pattern options on many styles. So when visiting the site be sure to see what design or pattern options are available. For example our Rooster salt and pepper have two patterns to select from when ordering. These salt and pepper shakers are decorated here in our office with pride.

While working on an order last week, Maree and I had the chance to discuss our grandmother, "MOM"; she collected salt and pepper sets. She had a collection of over five hundred sets from all around the world. We always looked forward to finding that special pair for her each year for Christmas, Mother's Day or her Birthday. In fact Maree and I would shop all year long for sets for her. Salt and pepper shakers are a simple item with such a useful function. Salt and pepper shakers can be fun and festive, reflect a decorating style, or be symbolic of the things we love to collect. Each time I process an order with salt and pepper shakers I can not help but think of my grandmother and her collection. I often wonder as I process the order if they are going to an addition to a collection or to be used in the home. I sincerely hope the pieces we produce and sell will be used, enjoyed and treasured for a lifetime.

So if you need a simple and useful gift at an affordable price (all are well under $20.00) try our salt and pepper shakers. We are sure we will have a pattern to meet your needs after all we have dogs (180 + breeds) cats, lighthouses, roses, roosters, pineapple, fleur de lis, and red hats just to name a few design options. Looking for a design not on our site on salt and pepper shakers or any of our china items please call during office hours 9:30 to 5:00 CST, Monday to Friday or email any time sales@giftsetc.com and we will try to meet your request.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Give Thanks with Americana Products

2008-11-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

Next week we celebrate the wonderful American Holiday of THANKSGIVING. We are so blessed to live in the United States of America, where we have so many opportunities. We are blessed with a standard of living that most people in other countries can not even begin to imagine. We live in a nation where we are blessed with the ability to celebrate and give thanks to our Lord, and Creature. The Pilgrims on the first Thanksgiving gave thanks and we are so lucky to be able to give thanks today for our blessings.

If you are in need of a last minute gift to bring next week as a hostess gift to a Thanksgiving celebration. Please consider a gift I have given. It is our American Christmas Tree Ornaments. We have two shapes available each available in two designs. (Here is the a second selection.) These ornaments celebrate our American roots and can be used in the upcoming holiday season of Christmas. If your hostess does not celebrate Christmas they can still use these items as a decoration for an American holidays such as Flag Day, the 4th of July, or Labor Day. Do not forget to show your pride for America with American themed gifts.

Happy Shopping and Reading at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Jewelry

2008-11-20T08:32:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to bring attention this morning to our jewelry items. Maree and I careful select the pieces for our site, www.giftsetc.com. We want to be sure the items are nice in quality.

There is one ring that we both have and really enjoy wearing it. It is our sterling silver Fleur de lis ring and it is very affordable. This piece is very easy on the hands when working. I often find that some rings are uncomfortable to type with due to their styling; this one is not. I wear it at work just as I am today. This ring is really comfortable. The ring has great styling and detail in the design.

We hope you will consider this ring and our other Fleur de lis jewelry as gifts this holiday season (which includes the season of Mardi Gras) even if it is a gift to yourself.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Tea pots

2008-11-18T07:20:00.000-08:00

With cooler Fall weather nothing is better to start your day than a cup of hot tea. Our grandmother, "Mom", loved tea. She taught us at a young age to enjoy this hot beverage on cool mornings with breakfast. So this morning I did just that; with temperatures in the 40's here in South Central Louisiana a cup of hot tea was a perfect way to start my day.

www.giftsetc.com offers a wonderful selection of items perfect for serving tea. I love the teapots we offer! We have a wonderful selection of shapes, styles and sizes most with coordinating cup and saucers. Many of the pieces are are antique reproductions. These quality pieces are available with a large selection of designs. We have teapots with lovely designs or patterns including flowers (roses, magnolias, forget me knots etc) Fleur de lis, lighthouses (over 20 different sites), monograms (in ten different colors and three letter styles), roosters, dog breeds (30 different breeds), fruits, and red hats. These pieces are dishwasher and microwave safe, perfect for our busy lifestyles.

Look for new teapots as we are always adding new pieces. We even have some wonderful teapots in our CLEARANCE sections.

Happy shopping and reading at www.giftsetc.com,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Jewelry for Children

2008-11-17T09:10:00.000-08:00

Maree recently added a new product grouping to our web site, Jewelry for Children. This section offers a wonderful collection of jewelry for children. These pieces are classic in design and sure to be cherished for years to come. The pieces can be personalized with a name or monogram making them even more special for the child receiving it as a gift.

One of the pieces we like the most is the I.D. Bracelet. This lovely sterling silver bracelet is designed with durability in mind; it has a nice lobster clasp closure on it. Maree and I both had bracelets very similar to this one that our father had given us growing up. Each was engraved with our name. For children with names that have unusual spelling having a gift with your name spelled correctly on it was always something really special. My name, Marilynn, has two N’s at the end and Maree is spelled with two E's and not an I.

Keep these wonderful pieces in mind as the perfect gift for the children in your life. They are sure to put a smile on the face of any child for their birthday or holiday gift.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

New Home Page

2008-11-13T14:00:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we have a new home page. We are very excited about the new layout. It has two new features that we want to draw attention to as you visit our site.

The first is our SALE section. This layout showcases a direct link to our specials, front and center on the home page. We want our visitors to take advantage of these wonderful savings. Look for more products in this section as we are still "cleaning" and find lots of treasures!

The second section is our Customer Comments. In all the years we have been on line we had never posted comments by clients. As a small business, we can not express our gratitude to you your clients who make it possible for us to do what we love. It is always really special to read emails from clients after they get their order. We have posted just a few to let other know what to expect from our company.

It is our pleasure to assist you with your gift giving needs. We take pride in processing your order. If we know we are shipping a gift, when it ships it is gift ready. By gift ready, it is packaged as a gift. We take a little extra effort, (we give it the "etc." ) to be sure the person receiving it knows how much you cared. Often our gift packaging is simply a white gift box with ribbon; some items are wrapped. It depends on the item. This service is provided a no additional cost to you. It is old fashion and some may call it outdated not to charge but we believe it is just away to say THANK YOU for entrusting your gift order with us. We NEVER send pricing and if you email us in the notes a message we include it on a card. Gifts are sent with special packing ship always without pricing and terms.

We hope to be of assistance to you this holiday season.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com!
Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

New Special Section

2008-11-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

www.giftsetc.com has a new section on our web site offering SPECIALS. These pieces are all offered at a discounted price. Stock is limited so order now to take advantage of the savings. We have been cleaning out the stock room and want to share our recent finds with you in time for holiday gift giving.

As always if you have any questions about our products please call during normal office hours, 9:30 am to 5:00 pm CST, Monday - Friday. Email 24 hours a day to
sales@giftsetc.com and we will be happy to answer your questions.

Please mark this as a favorite and check it our as specails will be updated.

Happy gift giving! (even if it is a gift to yourself)
Marilynn and Maree
www.giftsetc.com

Christmas Ornaments

2008-11-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

As I begin to think about the holidays I want to share with you a tradition that my Grandmother began with me and I share with family and friends. It is the tradition of giving Christmas Tree Ornaments. These are simple gifts that can be used for many years to come.

For my first Christmas my Grandmother, "Mom", gave me a Christmas tree ornament personalized with my name on it. I fondly remember it; a brass sleigh shape ornament with Santa in it. It was special to me because it had my name, Marilynn, and most of all it was from my "Mom". Each year until her passing "Mom" always had an ornament for me. She selected something that representing either a current interest (ballet, dogs, art etc) or current celebration (ex. 1976 Celebration, OK I am dating myself). These ornaments served each year as a connection not only to the celebration of this joyous season but my Grandmother and a celebration of my life's interest and milestones.

Maree and I are very pleased that our site offers a nice selection of ornaments. We actually offer over 1690 different ornament options when you consider the different pet breeds, ballerina images, lighthouses and monogramming options we offer.
Many of our ornaments can be personalized with a name.

We hope you visit our site and select an ornament as a gift even if it is a gift for yourself.

Sincerely,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

PS - We have several new ones that we are in the process of adding. I will keep you posted with details. One will be perfect for anyone who loves New Orleans. This ornament is an original design and only will be offered at www.giftsetc.com for Christmas 2008.

Marblehead Lighthouse

2008-11-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

Marblehead Lighthouse is located on the northernmost tip of the Marblehead Peninsula in Marblehead, Ohio. It is the oldest continuous working lighthouse on the Great Lakes. The history of this lighthouse begins when Congress allocated $5,000.00 in 1819 for the construction of a lighthouse to assist in the safe navigation of the entrance to Sandusky Bay . Construction began in 1821 and was completed in 11 weeks. Construction cost when completed was $7,232.00.

William Kelly was the contractor on the project and worked with two men to build the lighthouse out of limestone on the exterior walls quarried nearby on the peninsula. The lighthouse measured 25 feet with five thick walls at the base; stood 50 feet tall with a spiral staircase. The top tapered to 12 feet in diameter with walls two feet thick. The first light for beacon came from 13 small whale oil lamps with wicks and a set of sixteen inch diameter reflectors. Whale oil lamps served until 1858 has the light source, when the oil lamps were replaced by a single kerosene lantern, magnified by a Fresnel lens. In 1880 the limestone exterior was covered with stucco and painted white. In 1897, a 15 foot brick addition was added to the top of Marblehead. The tower then stood 65 foot tall and accommodated a watch room. In 1923 the kerosene lantern was converted to electrical power.

The first lighthouse keeper was Benajah Wolcott. Mr. Wolcott was a Revolutionary War veteran. He and his family lived near the lighthouse in a home also constructed by Mr. Kelly. Wolcott served for ten years at Marblehead until his death in 1832. Wolcott’s duties included lighting the whale oil lamps and keeping records of all vessels passing, weather conditions and assisting in organizing rescue efforts. His duties were taken over by his wife, Rachel. She was the first female lighthouse keeper on the Great Lakes. Loderick Brown served as keeper of Marblehead Lighthouse from 1849 to 1853. Mr. Brown’s wife was Margaret Kelly Brown. She was the daughter of William Kelly, who constructed the lighthouse. A second female keeper, Mrs. Johanne McGee served from 1896 to 1903. In 1943 Edward Herman, resigned as the last civilian keeper after ten years of service. The U.S. Coast guard took over the duties of the keepers and then in 1958 automated the light.

The lighthouse, keeper’s house and grounds surrounding the building are currently owned by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The U. S. Coast Guard continues to operate and maintain the lighthouse beacon. Since taking ownership of the property ODNR has invested in restoring the property. Today the lighthouse is in operation and the complex can be visited by the public. The beacon flashes every six seconds a green light and is visible for 11 nautical miles.

Happy reading and shopping,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Products We Sell - Canister sets

2008-11-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

We are often asked questions about items offered on our site, www.giftsect.com, and we are happy to answer your questions. These questions often include: Do you use the products sold on your site? Have you seen this item? Do you ever see the items before they ship? The answer to all of these questions is YES. Yes, we use them in our homes. Yes, every item we sell has been researched and evaluated before being placed on our site. Over the coming weeks we will be posting information about specific items and why we like them.

Canister Sets

We will begin today with our canister sets. The best feature we like about these pieces is the air tight rings. The air tight rings keep the contents of the jars fresh. I have found living n Louisiana, with many days of high humidity, these canisters are perfect to keep sugar fresh and from clumping. The jars are dishwasher safe. Just remove the rubber gasket before placing the pieces in the dishwasher. It is the gasket that makes the lids air tight. After washing the rings can be placed back on the jar. Each jar lid has a ridge in which the gasket fits. We have a wonderful collection of patterns or designs available on our canister sets.

Happy reading and shopping,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Monogram Dishes

2008-10-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

Monogram Dishes

Start a tradition for your family with monogram dishes. www.giftsetc.com offers a wonderful collection of monogram dishes. We have 25 pieces of china including a five piece place setting, serving pieces, wine and dine plates, teapots, and napkins rings. What we think is so wonderful is that you can not only select from three font or letter styles but you can order your monogram in one of our ten colors. Our ordering options really offer you an opportunity to great dishes that fit your personal style. We think this is the largest selection of items, font styles and colors offered on the web today.

Our monogram pieces are also part of our open stock collection. This allows you to add to your dinnerware collection as your family and party sizes increase over time. We are very proud to be on the web since 2002, so do not be hesitate to invest in these dishes. Our parent company has been in business since 1986.

The monogram dishes are also part of the buy 5 get one FREE Specail good until 12/31/08. This is really a great way to begin our collection with this specail offer.

Not only do we have the elegant monogrammed dishes we also have fun filled dots, spots and letters. Perfect for teens, children, and those young at heart with a joyful spirit. These pieces are great for holiday gift giving.

Be sure to check back for additional posting on interesting monogramming information including the history, and proper monogramming selection.

Happy reading and shopping,
Marilynn
www.gifsetc.com

Malachite Dinnerware

2008-10-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

Malachite Dinnerware

Be sure to check out our Malachite dishes. These are perfect for Holiday entertaining. The pieces are very affordable and are sure to be heirlooms for future generations. This collection offers all of the pieces needed your place settings, charger plate, platter, bowls, coffee pot, and cream and sugar. The detailing on these pieces is excellent.

It is very satisfying as a small business owner when clients reorder with us. Recently I had a client order a few pieces of the malachite dinnerware after receiving the order he called to place a reorder. His first comment was, "when I got these piece we were thrilled with the quality at such an affordable price." He reordered additional items to work at complete ling an entire service for 12.

I personally love this collection and can not wait to use these pieces during the upcoming holiday season. The charger plates make wonderful service plates for cold meats, appetizers and desserts. Check out our blog for one of my favorite and very easy appetizer recipe. They look great on these plates for the holidays.

Happy reading and shopping,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Only days away!

2008-10-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

Most Americans are focused on the upcoming Presidential Election. Today I want to remind everyone Christmas is two months away!

For many Americans two months from today we will be busy attending Christmas Eve church services, wrapping last minute packages, visiting with friends and family in celebration of Christmas and finishing the touches on your holiday cooking. Over the course of the next few weeks I will be sharing some of our favorite holiday recipes on our Recipe blog so check them out.

www.giftsetc.com will be having specials on products perfect to take advantage of your gift giving. One of our first special is buy 5 plates (any size from our dinnerware collection) and get the 6Th one FREE. What a great way to add to your favorite set of dishes or give as a gift. This is on all patterns so order today.

Also today is time to begin planning for Mardi Gras 2009 which is on February 24th, just four months away. Carnival season will be here soon with parties, parades and balls. Keep www.giftsetc.com in mind for your gift giving needs. We have some new and exciting products that will be adding over the coming weeks. Lassiez bons temps roule! Let the Good Times Roll!

If at any time you have a question about our products call us. We are here Monday - Friday, 9:30 am to 5:00 pm CST. You will get our office not a call center. We are happy to speak with you about our products.

Happy reading and shopping at www.giftsetc.com
Marilynn

Lighthouses

2008-10-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

Recently while processing an order for a tea for one with the Marblehead lighthouse design I began to think about all the lighthouse items we have sold over the years. Gifts Etc offers over twenty different lighthouse designs available on an assortment of items including canister sets, spoon rest, bathroom accessories just to name a few. I admitted to myself while decorating that tea for one I knew the names of these famous locations but my knowledge was limited on their unique characteristics. I began researching to see which lighthouse was older, taller etc. I decided after reading about these historical sites it would make interesting postings to our blog. So here I go over the next few months I will be posting a little info on each one. We hope you will enjoy this info as much as I have enjoyed doing the research.

Happy reading and shopping,
Marilynn
www.giftsetc.com

Valentine's Day…myth, mystery, and mirth

2008-02-11T09:37:00.000-08:00

The origins of Valentine's Day are some what hazy but, there are two basic sources on which most scholars believe provides the basis our present holiday. The first is St. Valentine, a priest who attracted the disfavor of a Roman Emperor, Claudius II, around 270 AD. It seems that Claudius was of the mind that single men made better soldiers and so prohibited marriage for young men. Valentine disagreed with Claudius and married young couples in secret. He was eventually caught and put to death, on February 14.

A more ancient basis for Valentine's Day comes to us from the Romans, long before the birth of Christ. The festival of Lupercalia, which was to honor the goddess Februata Juno (this goddess concerned all young people of marriageable age), provides some unusual insights for more recent traditions connected to Valentine’s Day. In a sort of mating lottery game, young ladies in a district put their name, or token representing themselves, in an urn and the young men pulled a token and the couples paired off. This idea was brought to Britain during the Roman occupation and was present up until the beginning of the last century. We see a small semblance of this custom here in America, because who hasn’t asked their school age child, "Who’s your Valentine?" The named object of affection may have not been thought of before Valentine’s Day with any romantic inclinations and few of these pairing last past the school bell the next morning, but it does provide a bit of fun and a nod to the past.

The modern Valentine's Day greeting card did not achieve any sort of popularity until about 1840. This growth in popularity is thought to have come about due to the introduction of penny postage and the use of envelopes. In Victorian times cards took on a much more delicate and mysterious air. Due to the fact that Victorian fathers were very strict and would not allow their daughters to receive any sort of correspondence unless they had read it first to decide if it was suitable, secret panels were constructed into the lacy designs with secret messages of love. This fact also explains why most Valentine’s Day cards were sent anonymously during Victorian times.

One tradition that I was very unaware of is that on Valentine’s Day in a leap year it is the custom for women to ask their boyfriend or partner to marry them. Quite useful information for the woman who only is willing to wait so long! Another interesting little fact is that some of our modern-day vocabularies have their origins in Valentine's. During the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who their Valentines would be. The slip of paper with the Valentine’s name was worn on their sleeves for a week, hence the expression "to wear your heart on your sleeve".

It is interesting to note that in many of these customs of old the Valentine was chose by chance—pulling a slip of paper or a token from a vessel. What I find most intriguing about this is that most were more than happy to allow fate to choose their Valentine. It should be remembered that in the past most young people were not allowed to choose marriage partners and this custom of letting fate, the gods, or chance decide on a Valentine seems to reinforce this idea, perhaps a buffer for a later disappointment in the parents choice of a spouse. In the middle of the 17th century even married people took a Valentine and not always their legal better half.
Another Valentine's Day superstition that was very popular during Victorian times revolved around predicting whom one might marry. It was once believed that if a lady saw a robbing flying overhead on Valentine’s she would marry a sailor. If she saw a sparrow she would marry a poor man, but that the couple would be very happy. And if she witnessed a goldfinch flying above she would marry a millionaire. The association with birds is that it was then believed that love birds began to mate on February 14.

On this Valentine's Day it is my wish that you spend it with those you love most, be they your one and only, family, or friends. The tradition of Valentine’s Day has endured all this time not because the greeting card companies begin their ads early in January or due to the fact that jewelry store ads can easily be converted from Christmas to Valentine themes in a wink of an eye. No, the beautiful tradition has been carried through the ages because all of us have a common desire to love, be loved, and to show those we love most how we feel. May your expressions of love be returned to you on Valentine’s Day and always.

Elle

Pierre Shadeaux Bedtime Story

2008-02-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

A bedtime story in honor of the origin the Cajun version of Ground Hog Day.

Only the Shadeaux Knows

By Elise Durio

Pierre Shadeaux grew up along the quiet banks of the bayous in southwest Louisiana. His love for having fun was not only legendary in the bayou, but was also the biggest reason for his popularity. He was the first one to get everyone together for a swim in the spring time, he had an uncanny affinity for knowing the best times and places for fishing, and could tell you all the days you should stay home because a storm was brewing in the swamp.

Pierre’s momma, Marie, had relied on him from the time he was very small to let her know when it was time to plant her vegetable garden. Early in February he would go out side, look around, sniff the air, and then give Marie the best date to plant. For a long time Marie kept this remarkable ability of Pierre’s a secret.

“Pierre, I know that you can tell all sorts of things that others can’t about the weather, but I want you to keep that a secret until the time is right.” Marie once told Pierre.

“Why, Momma?” Pierre was confused, because Marie had always told him to use all of his talents for his own good and that of others.

“Mon Cher, this talent to tell when the spring will be here is most unusual and will bring you much fame. I want you to be able to just be a boy, when the time is right, your talent will be shared with the world.” Marie smiled and patted Pierre’s head.

Pierre listened to his Momma, as all good Cajun children do, and had a wonderful time growing up in the swamp. He was one of the best swimmers in these parts, could catch enough fish in an afternoon to have a fish fry for all of their friends, could out run all the squirrels in the bayou, and knew all the fastest short cuts in the swamp to make it home right when Momma took her famous blackberry pie from the oven. For a very long while Pierre enjoyed himself just as Marie had hoped, but then one year a bitter cold came to the bayou.

As the long months that began early in November carried on through the New Year, the creatures along the bayou became worried. Winters in Louisiana are usually mild, but this particular one had been especially cold and dreary. As January drew to a close, the days had been the coldest ones anyone could remember and worse still, they were damp so that the cold chilled you to the bone. As Marie sat in front of the fire one night she knew the time had come for Pierre to reveal his special gift.

"Pierre, this winter has been especially fierce and everyone is afraid that the cold may never end. This year when you predict the best day for spring planting I want everyone to be here.” Marie words were spoken gently, but they surprised Pierre.

“You think that now is the time for everyone to know?” Pierre had become so accustomed to keeping his weather telling abilities a secret that he wasn’t sure how he felt about revealing them.

“Yes, Pierre, the time is right. Many of our friends are frighten that spring will never come again because the weather has been so very cold this year. They need hope.” Momma smiled at

Pierre, she knew once everyone knew that Pierre could predict the coming of spring he would be famous.

Pierre went to the window and looked out into the dark swamp. As his breath fogged the frosty window pane, Pierre knew Momma was right.

“Tomorrow, we will tell every one to meet in the clearing at sunrise on February 2. I will give my prediction for spring before every one in the swamp.” Pierre watched the darkness for a long time before he went to bed.

The next day Momma and Pierre told everyone along the bayou to be at the clearing at sunrise on February 2, but they didn’t say why. All the swamp residents were curious and it was that curiosity that got them out of their warm beds on such a cold February morning.

Just as he had all of his life, Pierre rose before dawn on the second day of February to predict if spring was soon on its way. Pierre was a bit nervous. He could easily predict the coming of spring, but to convince every one along the bayou that what he predicted would come true was another issue. Would they believe him right away, or would time have to prove him correct? The only way to find out would be to give his prediction and let time do the proving.

As Pierre made his way to the clearing he could hear nature speaking to him as she always had. Softly the clues of the future of the coming of spring rose before him, like images you see in the clouds on a summer’s day—hazy, but clear and unmistakable. When Pierre arrived in the clearing just before sunrise all of the inhabitants of bayou were already gathered. As Pierre made his way to the center of them, the group grew quite.

Pierre looked around; studying the faces of friends he had known all of his life. And it was then that Momma’s words came back to him, telling him what he should say.

“My dear friends, we have endured a long and hard winter. And many of you have mentioned that you fear the winter will last forever and spring will never again grace us with her warmth and beauty. I asked you all here this morning to share a gift with you. I have shared it with you before, but secretly. Jean, when ever I have taken you fishing, have we ever returned home empty handed?”

Jean laughed, “Be serious Pierre! You are the best fishermen in the bayou. I don’t ever remember you taking anyone fishing and not coming home with some many fish that you were able to share with neighbors.”

“And you, Mrs. Hebert, has Momma’s vegetable garden ever been planted too early, or too late?” Pierre asked their neighbor.

“Pierre, your mother’s garden is the envy of the swamp. It’s seems that it is by magic that she knows the perfect time to plant.” Mrs. Hebert had always helped Momma in the garden and had marveled at the perfect timing year after year.

“It is not by magic that her garden is planted in such a timely manner, it is by me.” Pierre smiled as he saw the sun come up over the swamp. “I am the one who has told Momma when the spring would arrive and when to plant. I know the coming of spring the same way I know the best places to hunt and fish. Today, because all of you seem so fearful that spring will never arrive, I share my foretelling with you.

In the dreary light of a cloudy February morning Pierre took note of all the signs, just as he had always done, and foretold that spring would arrive before month’s end. Some were happy with Pierre’s words; others just shook their heads and went home. Momma, who had stood under a distant oak while Pierre gave his prediction, took Pierre by the hand and walked him home.

“Time will prove you right, then, Pierre, you will always be able to give them hope.” Momma smiled and they walked home together.

A few days later Pierre awoke to the sound birdsong. He could hear Momma’s voice singing along. A lovely tune she always sang the first warm day of spring. As Pierre lay there listening he heard Mrs. Hebert’s voice.

“Marie, I’ve just come from town and everyone is talking about Pierre. I haven’t seen so many smiles in a long time!” Mrs. Hebert told Momma.

As the years passed Pierre became renown not only in the bayou but across the state. So when your winter seems to be lasting a bit too long and you’re wondering just when spring will bring her warmth and beauty no need to worry, just ask the Shadeaux.

Check out our website for great night lites.

Mardi Gras 2008 Events

2008-01-08T07:19:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras Events 2008

Janury 25th
ANDALUSIA Mardi Gras Parade - New Iberia, LA
6:30 pm - Main Street

January 26th
KREWE OF CARNIVALE EN RIO Mardi Gras Parade - Lafayette, LA
6:30 pm - Downtown Lafayette

January 28th
KREWE OF EZAN Mardi Gras Parade - Jeanerette, LA
1:00 pm - Canal & Main Street, Jeanerette, LA

February 1st
FRIDAY NIGHT PARADE - Lafayette, LA
6:30 pm - Lafayette, LA

February 2nd
CHILDREN's PARADE - Lafayette, LA
2:30 pm - Lafayette, LA
KREWE OF BOBAPARTE Mardi Gras Parade - Lafayette, LA
6:30 pm - Lafayette, LA

Feburary 4th
QUEEN's PARADE - Lafayette, LA
6:00 pm - Lafayette, LA

February 5th
GRAND MARAID Mardi Gras Parade - Jeanerette
11:00 am - Hwy 90 at College Road
KING's PARADE - Lafayette, LA
10:00 am - Lafayette, LA
LAFAYETTE MARDI GRAS FESTIVAL Parade - Lafayette, LA
1:00 pm Lafayette, LA
INDEPENDENT PARADE - Lafayette
2:00 pm - Lafayette, LA
KREWE CHIC-A-LA-PIE Mardi Gras Parade - Kaplan, LA
2:00 pm - Downtown Kaplan
KREWE OF COTEAU Mardi Gras Parade - Coteau, LA
1:00 pm - Coteau Ballpark

Gifts Etc is not responsible for any calendar date changes made subsequest to this posting. Events, dates and locations are subject to change. Please verfiy with organizer of event.

Pinneaple Lore

2008-01-07T14:30:00.000-08:00

Pineapple Lore

Since colonial times the pineapple has been a symbol of hospitality. In colonial America, visiting was the primary means of entertainment, cultural intercourse, and news dissemination. Hospitality-- the charm, warmth, and style with which guests were received-- was central to daily living and the center of most all community activity was the home.
Folklore tells us that upon returning home sea captains would put a pineapple on the gatepost as a sign that they were once again safely home. This sign bade welcome to friends and family to visit, eat, and hear the tales of their voyages. Lore also tells us that guests who had overstayed their welcome would find a pineapple placed at the foot of their bed, a polite sign that it was time to leave.

While common today, in colonial times pineapples were a rare commodity and due to their costly nature would be used as major attractions during special feasts—quite literally a culinary crown.

A hostesses’ ability to secure a pineapple for a dinner party said as much about her rank as it did about her resourcefulness, especially since, not only were they rare and expensive, but the street trade of these prized fruits was not for the faint of heart.

In more affluent homes, the dining room doors were kept closed until the appointed hour, and then with all the flair and suspense of opening night on Broadway, the doors were opened to reveal the evening’s main event. When visitors beheld a pineapple topped display, they knew their hostess was one who spared no expense and that her guest’s happiness was of the utmost importance to the success of the affair.

With such a glowing history as the symbol of friendship and hospitality, it is easy to see why this fruit has been used by architects and homeowners alike to adorn dwellings, furnishings, and artifacts for the home.

For a lovely selection of pineapple adorned items for your home click here.

Why are the colors for Mardi Gras - Purple, Green and Gold?

2008-01-05T16:16:00.001-08:00

Official Colors of Mardi Gras

The official colors of Mardi Gras are PURPLE, GREEN and GOLD. These three colors were seleacted by the King of Carnival, Rex in 1872. Each color has a symbolic meaning. PURPLE represents Justice. GREEN is symbolic of Faith and GOLD stands for Power.

When is Mardi Gras?

2008-01-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

Dates of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras, "Fat Tuesday" in French is always on a Tuesday.

Mardi Gras can be any Tuesday from February 3rd to March 9th.

Hopes these dates help you plan your next Mardi Gras celebration.

Year ~ Mardi Gras
2008 ~ February 5
2009 ~ February 24
2010 ~ February 16
2011 ~ March 8
2012 ~ February 21
2013 ~ February 12
2014 ~ March 4
2015 ~ February 17
2016 ~ February 9
2017 ~ February 28
2018 ~ February 13
2019 ~ March 5
2020 ~ February 25
2021 ~ February 16

Happy New Year

2008-01-02T17:56:00.000-08:00

The New Year always brings to mind resolutions. Just as we begin the year with personal resolutions for self improvement and ideas for bettering our quality of life, so too have we made resolutions for Gift’s Etc. I began posting Blog articles on this site several months ago, as the end of the year drew near Marilynn, CEO of the company, called me and proposed the idea that I take over the Blog portion of the site. Needless to say I was thrilled, if not a bit nervous, for not only the opportunity to write, but also to be able to work with Marilynn and the staff.

As you wander around the site, please take note of some of our "resolutions". One resolution we are very pleased to bring you is called "Elizabeth’s Best Recipes". This new feature showcases original recipes each month from our resident home economist, Elizabeth DeBuse. As part of this new feature, an article will accompany the recipe as well as a special dinnerware item that corresponds to the recipe featured. The piece will be offered at a special price and the design unique to that piece.

You’ll also find a posting from me each month letting you know what’s new to the site—products, information, and articles. As always, your input is welcome. We would hope that you would send us your ideas and thoughts to share with those who visit our site.

The New Year will also bring some new informational postings for our site. Not only will we have useful articles concerning our products and their use, but general articles about entertaining, home decorating, useful household tips, making the most of family time and activities, special articles to help you enhance your holidays, and other topics which we feel will appeal to our site visitors. It is our hope that with the information provided you can not only set a unique and attractive table or decorate your mantel that will bring "oohh’s and aahh’s" from guests, but that we can provide a resource to help you in making your house a home and improve and enhance the time you spend with your family.

Happy New Year,
Elise Durio
Editor

Mardi Gras Dictionary

2008-01-02T17:37:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras Dictionary

BALL ~ (bal masque; tableau ball) A masked ball in which scenes representing a specific theme are enacted for the entertainment of the club members and their guests; krewe "royalty" is traditionally presented during the ball.

CAPTAIN ~ The absolute leader of each Carnival organization.

CARNIVAL ~ From the Latin carnivale, loosely translated as "farewell to flesh"; the season of merriment in New Orleans which begins annually on January 6, the Twelfth Night (the feast of the Epiphany), and ends at midnight on Fat Tuesday; the Carnival season leads up to the penitential season of Lent in which fasting replaces feasting.

COURT ~ The King, Queen, maids, and dukes of the Carnival organization.

DEN ~ A large warehouse where floats are built and stored.

DOUBLOONS ~ Aluminum coin-like objects bearing the krewe's insignia on one side and the parade's theme on the reverse; first introduced by Rex in 1960 and created by New Orleans artist H. Alvin Sharpe. Doubloons are also minted and sold in .999 silver, bronze and cloisonne.

FAVOR ~ A souvenir, given by krewe members to friends attending the ball, normally bearing the organization's insignia, name and year of issue.

INVITATION ~ A printed request for attendance at a Carnival ball. In the 19th century, many invitations were die-cut and printed in Paris; today, most are printed in New Orleans. Invitations are non-transferable, and it is improper to ever refer to them as "tickets".

KING CAKE ~ An oval sugared pastry that contains a plastic doll hidden inside. The person who finds the doll is crowned "king" and buys the next cake or throws the next party. The king cake season opens on King's Day, January 6, the feast of the Epiphany. More than 750,000 king cakes are annually consumed in the metro New Orleans area during Carnival season.

KREWE ~ The generic term for the Carnival organizations in New Orleans, first used by the Mystic Krewe of Comus, which coined the word in 1857 to give it's club's name an Old English flavor.

LASSIEZ BON TEMPS ROULE! ~ Let the good times roll!

LUNDI GRAS ~ French for Fat Monday, From 1874 to 1917, the day before Mardi Gras was celebrated by the arrival of Rex aboard a steamboat. The custom was revived in 1987; and Lundi gras now includes Carnival act ivies staged by Zulu and Rex.

MARDI GRAS ~ French for Fat Tuesday, the single-day culmination of the Carnival season.

THROWS ~ Inexpensive trinkets tossed from floats by costumed and masked krewe members. Among the more popular items are krewe-emblemed aluminum doubloons, plastic cups, and white pearl necklaces. Throws are tossed in response to the cry, "Throw me something , mister!”

2007-12-25T18:47:00.000-08:00

Our Wish for You This Holiday Season

As the holidays quickly approach our thoughts often turn to parties, gifts, travel, and host of other concerns, and while plans must be made, parties attended, traveling done, and other tasks tended to, our wish for you for this season concerns none of these. It is our sincerest hope that you have some time this holiday season for a few moment of peace and reflection. A few minutes spent under the stars to note your place in the universe, to revel in the joy and beauty of creation, and to reflect on all of the blessings great and small that have been given to you. It is a gift that you can give to yourself alone, or share with those you love. If you decide to share your moment with loved ones you need not worry that your gift will be the wrong size or that the person already has it. This gift can be given often and never losses it sparkle or worth. The spirit of the season is one of love. To share a few moments of precious holiday time being thankful for the people we love and letting them know we are thankful for the joy and love their presence bring into our daily lives is the essence of what the season represents.
When we stand under the stars with our loved ones, know that you are counted among our blessings.

Happiest of Holidays!

Sister's Day - August 5th

2007-08-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

August 5th is Sister’s Day. I am so blessed to have a sister. My sister, Maree, and I actually work together here at www.giftstetc.com . So when we say we are family owned and operated we really are. It is so rewarding to have the chance to work with my sister. We compliment each other’s strengths and weaknesses. The relationship I have with my sister is special and something I treasure. It is also really nice to get orders from clients who indicate the products being ordered are for their sisters as a gift for a special occasion or just because they want to do something special for their sister. So today, Maree I thank God for you being my sister and my friend. Wishing everyone who has a sister - HAPPY SISTER’S DAY.

The source of the date for Sister’s Day is Brownielocks website. It is listed as an official daily observance.

Chocolate Chip Day - August 4th

2007-08-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

August 4th is National Chocolate Chip Day.

In honor of this most day for chocolate lovers,
I want to share with you one of my favorite Chocolate
Chip Cookie Recipes. This is one I have developed
over several years of delightful taste testing.

Chocolate Chip Cookies
1 cup of Butter softened
¾ cup of granulated sugar
¾ cup of brown sugar
1 egg
2 ½ cups of all purpose flour
1 teaspoon of baking soda
½ teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of vanilla
16 oz of Chocolate Chips

Heat oven to 375 degrees.
Mix butter, sugars, vanilla and egg.
Stir in flour, baking soda and salt.
Fold in Chocolate Chips.
Drop dough onto ungreased cookie sheet.
Place about 2 inches apart.
Makes about 48 cookies.
Use your favorite type of chip - semi sweet chocolate,
milk or white chocolate.

The 4th of July

2007-07-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is traditionally the largest summer holiday in the United States with families & communities gathering for picnics, barbecues, parades & fire work displays.
It was on July 4, 1776 that members of the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence
56 men signed the declaration of Independence. These men showed courage and conviction for their beliefs; by signing the declaration they committed an act of treason, punishable by death, against Great Britain
Thomas Jefferson wrote the declaration of Independence. On June 28, 1776 Jefferson presented the first draft of the Declaration of Independence.
John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence
On July 4, 1790 Thomas Jefferson, who was president, opened the White House to guest. This same year our nation's capitol was moved from Philadelphia to Washington, D. C.
The Declaration of Independence itself is the most copied political documents of all time.
The Declaration of Independence is a justification of the American Revolution. This document citied grievences against King George III.
Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826, on the 50th celebration of the 4th of July.
In 1941, Congress declared the 4th of July a legal federal holiday.

In honor of our FREEDOM as American - FREE Shipping and Handling on orders of $200.00 or more during the month of JULY of 2007 at www.giftsetc.com
COUPON CODE: 4FREE

Fleur de Lis

2007-05-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

The Fleur de Lis is a very stylish and timeless pattern. The Fleur de Lis dates back to 14th century. Fleur de Lis means "flower of the lily" in French and has come to represent French Royalty. Today, the Fleur de Lis is used by many Louisianians to express their French hertiage. It is also used as a very popular design in home decor and jewelry. Often items with the fleur de lis are purchased to remind them of the special times spent in New Orleans and South Louisiana.

Please view our Fleur de Lis Collection.

This is the New Gifts Etc Blog!

2007-05-18T11:26:00.001-07:00

Stay Tuned here for more goodness!