Longview area offers many options for holiday gifting

By Laura Baird

Is it really time to think about gifts - as in Christmas gifts!? Many of you may have already begun that process; while others (such as myself) end up being "unintentional procrastinators." Or maybe I’m just in denial about how fast the time is going. In my family, we tend to do so much for ourselves throughout the year, that we don’t really say, “I want this for Christmas!” It’s not that we don’t celebrate, we just don’t commercialize it by thinking we need a load of gifts under the tree. We do, however, concentrate on making each other happy, and do something special for each other.

Holiday bazaars have begun, and there are a ton of them. You'll find c crafts, gifts, food, and more. This is truly one way to support our local artists and craftsmen. There is, of course, online shopping, which for many is preferable to crowds and mayhem. For those who want to be especially crafty themselves and make personal gifts, there are many choices for supplies, from Jo-Ann’s Fabrics to Michael’s, to the Habitat Restore and the Dollar Store, all in Longview.

Lesser-known (or advertised) shops and boutiques also provide unique ideas and gifts. Longview has plenty, when you take the time to notice. Just a few include The Porcelain Rose, on 10th Avenue, across from the Five Guys Burger restaurant. The Gift Cottage on Commerce, with choices that would please male or female. One Hour Photo Express, on Ocean Beach Hwy can help you with something special, from family photo calendars to prints that can be placed on nearly anything.

Now let’s talk food. It’s usually the time to dig out those family recipes, or try one you found especially delightful looking in the latest edition of Good Housekeeping or Bon Appetit. If you want to have someone else take those reins, there’s no shortage of wonderful places here. Lynn’s Catering and More, on 14th Avenue, is only one of many that has a selection of tasty meals and desserts. Judy’s and The Red Rooster are two others.

Never before has the term “shop local” been more important. Let’s support the wonderful selection of establishments in our area. And don’t forget, even gift cards and certificates are enjoyed – they allow the receiver to pick out what they’d like best!

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Do you have suggestions for great gift hunting in the Longview-St. Helens-Clatskanie area? Please add your comment in the space below.

Laura Baird is one of CRREADER.COM's online writers Read more about her by clicking here.