Idiom

Valentine's day is this Friday, and I couldn't resist writing a post to help the boys who are lost in the stereotypes of chocolates and roses. I'm typically not into idioms, but I couldn't resist the idea of a boy gifting these native earrings from TheTwentyFingers, with a sweet note, "birds of a feather flock together." Happy gifting non-chocolates and non-roses!

Inside nature

I'm a big outdoor enthusiast. I credit my high school for introducing me to Mother Nature through its Outdoor Education program. During those four years, I learned to rock climb, carry a 70-pound backpack, kayak in the ocean, and take faux showers with my trusty pack of wet wipes. As I get older and adult responsibilities increase, I find it more difficult to enjoy nature frequently and for extended periods of time. And that's exactly why I found Plantillo's decorative pillows so magical. You get to enjoy nature's beauty in the comfort of your home, all year long. Now that's a gift an outdoor enthusiast couldn't resist!

Creative Cupid

It's almost Valentine's Day, and you know what that means--no flowers, no chocolate and no stuff animals! While I can't guarantee that your honey will love these presents, he or she cannot deny that there's more meaning behind these gifts than a box of Godiva. You know I'm a huge fan of handwritten cards; so, in addition to that love letter, how about this painted rock from Mediterranean Treasures, with the message, "Thanks for being my rock." Or if you want to stay away from sappy messages, "You rock!"

 

Or how about this unique box? I'm not suggesting that you propose, but use your imagination and hide a trinket or message inside (something like, "Thanks for grounding me" or "Thanks for all your love and support"). End Grain Wood Shoppe will even customize your box with the special day you met. 

Share your Valentine's Day gift ideas with me. Let's work together to impress Cupid!

Going back to my (college) roots

I saw this WeWOOD watch advertised in a yoga magazine and was struck by how simply beautiful it was. It has the look of a metal watch, but it's made of wood! WeWOOD follows a similar philosophy to TOMS, in that it plants a tree for every timepiece sold. It's a nice concept, but I'm not completely sure I buy into the product description: "As alive as nature, your timepiece records your sensations and shares your experiences and may awaken memories from another time and place." It's a watch. It tells time. Let's just leave it at that. But, I do think it's perfect for the friend who lives in San Francisco who often sports North Face and only eats organic food. Or maybe just someone who appreciates design, like your architect friend.